Emerald Coast Magazine- April/May 2015 by Rowland Publishing, Inc.

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WEDDINGS & PORTRAITS

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EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

FRESH SEAFOOD?

One of the first questions people ask when they visit our area is “How can we be sure we’re getting fresh seafood?” That’s an excellent question. There is a good chance that the seafood you will be offered traveled farther than you did. In the state of Florida, even though we are surrounded by water, more than 90% of the seafood sold this year will be imported from other countries. Throughout the United States, the huge majority of seafood is imported. Most of it is mislabeled. Frozen seafood is sold as “fresh” and imported seafood is sold as “local.” According to Oceana, 93% of fish sold as red snapper is actually some other species. 57% of tuna sold at sushi bars throughout the country is not tuna. Most of the tilapia served in this country comes from Viet Nam and Thailand and much of it is farmed in waters with sewage run-off and the source of feed is pig feces.

Harbor Docks has been selling fish through its wholesale market since 1981. We sell to markets across the United States and Canada. We also sell to select restaurants along the Gulf Coast. Harbor Docks contracts with over 100 commercial boats to insure that we have an adequate supply of fresh fish. We invite you to dine at our restaurants – Harbor Docks, in the heart of Destin, and Camille’s, overlooking the Gulf in Crystal Beach. But we’d also encourage you to try any of the wonderful, independent, local restaurants in our area that are committed to serving Florida seafood. We know who they are, because we sell them their fish.

check our website to find out which restaurants sell certified Gulf-to-Table fish from harbor Docks Seafood market. DES TIN , FL | 850. 837. 2506 | h a r b o r D o c k S .co m S E A F O O D & C O C K TA I L S

4 April–May 2015

Snapper and Tuna stats: http://oceana.org/en/news-media/publications/reports/oceana-study-reveals-seafood-fraud-nationwide Imported seafood stat: http://www.fishwatch.gov/farmed_seafood/outside_the_us.htm Tilapia/pig feces: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-10-11/asian-seafood-raised-on-pig-feces-approved-for-u-s-consumers.html

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

The Emerald Coast Magazine April + May 2015

contents Erica Manthey of Destin has been a regular at Seaside’s Farmers Market since it opened in 2007. Since then, locals’ hunger for farm fresh foods has caused many more to sprout up in communities all along the Emerald Coast.

AD F E AT U RE S

52 Spearfishing

The adventurous water sport that combines boating, fishing and hunting

BY DANIELE BUENROSTRO

60 Farm Fresh

Let’s go to the market for fresh, locally grown foods

PURE 7 STUDIOS

BY REBEKAH SANDERLIN

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

contents

in the e.c. 19 Snapshot Reid Soria learned to soar with music. 20 Chat Lydia Smith’s first-class try at secondhand retail. 24 Personality Geoff McBride lends his voice to our most vulnerable. 31 Scene Kudos and congrats, faces in new places, interesting news nuggets and more.

happenings 35 Spotlight The “queen” of the Emerald Coast art scene turns 20. 36 Culture This wine season, area festivals “pour on” even more.

40 Calendar Summer is coming! Time to drink in fun events, festivals and fetes. 45 Social Studies Have you “scene” who’s been out and about on the EC?

the good life 167 Eudaimonia The Taylor Haugen Foundation enables students to just say … YESS. 168 Going Places Healdsburg: California’s other wine country. 174 Mind + Body Everyone is cuckoo for coconut oil! 178 Habitat Seaside’s most iconic home in Ruskin Place was a “joyous” designer challenge. 192 Gardening How to weed out your garden’s warm-weather problems. 194 Flavor Any way you slice it, these are sensational sandwiches. 201 Dining Just a taste of what’s on menus along the Emerald Coast. 202 On the Menu Tom Gum Gai soup is a Thai delight. 206 A Taste For … Sriracha!

A WORD WITH YOU

SPECIAL SECTIONS

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Your perfect day, your way...

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2015

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28 Spring Gift Guide 67 Medical Profiles 186 Deal Estate

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Gift Guide Fresh ideas, styles and personalized services can all be found on the Emerald Coast, just in time to celebrate mothers, fathers and graduates on their special days.

1. ISLAND CLOTHIERS These fun yet functional clutches are perfect for a night out in a beach town. The sparkle of sequins contrasts nicely against straw for a touch of beach meets luxury. Island Clothiers has the perfect apparel for any occasion. Vineyard Vines Sequin and Straw Clutch in gold and in pink, $78 each. Located in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. (850) 351-1806 2. BAREFOOT PRINCESS The bright, floral print of this Lilly Pulitzer tumbler, drink hugger and candle are essentials for spring and summer. The Beach Rose print featured on these items and many more lively patterns can be found at Barefoot Princess. Barefoot Princess offers the widest variety of Lilly Pulitzer apparel and accessories in the Destin area. Lilly Pulitzer 20 oz. reusable tumbler in Beach Rose, $16, First Impressions candle, $28 and drink hugger in Beach Rose $6. Located in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. (850) 351-1806 3. BAY BREEZE PATIO Seaside Casual Adirondack chairs offer timeless design along with durability and comfort. Available at Bay Breeze Patio along with the largest selection of in-stock outdoor furniture, including Lloyd Flanders, Lane Venture, Brown Jordan, Tropitone, Tommy Bahama and more. BayBreezePatio.com, 850.269.4666

4. THE BIG GREEN EGG is the ultimate in

outdoor cooking. It’s a grill, a smoker, oven and ... the best gift you will ever give! Available in six sizes from $402 to $1,206. Voted Best Outdoor Furniture Retailer. Bay Breeze Patio, 32 Forest Shore Drive, Destin, 850.269.4666, BayBreezePatio.com

5. SILVER SANDS PREMIUM OUTLETS® Enjoy exceptional brands with extraordinary savings of 25% to 65% at an impressive collection of 110 designer and name brand outlets including Nike, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Calvin Klein, Coach, Gap Outlet, Kate Spade New York, Kenneth Cole, J.Crew, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th and more. For complete information and to join the VIP Shopper Club, visit premiumoutlets.com. Silver Sands Premium Outlets®, Hwy 98, Destin, 850.654.9771

5 28 April–May 2015

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6. SILVER SANDS PREMIUM OUTLETS® Enjoy savings of 25% to 65% at an impressive collection of 110 designer and name brand outlets including Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Calvin Klein, Coach, Gap Outlet, J.Crew, Nike, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th and more. For complete information and to join the VIP Shopper Club, visit premiumoutlets.com. Silver Sands Premium Outlets®, Hwy 98, Destin, 850.654.9771

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scene Just some of the interesting buzz we’ve seen and heard around the Emerald Coast …

RENDERING COURTESY OF SALAMANDER © HOTELS & RESORTS AND PHOTO BY BRETT PHARES COURTESY DIGITAL GRAFFITI AT ALYS BEACH AND COURTESY OF KETCHUM (LANASA)

NEW NEWS … ▪ Three award-winning artists — Andrew Demirjian, 48, of Palisades Park, New Jersey, Natalie Goldman, 29, of San Diego and Shantell Martin, 34, of New York City — ventured to Alys Beach in January for the third annual Digital Graffiti Visiting Artist Residency program. During the seven-day program, artists immersed themselves in the town, residing under one roof and collaborating with curator Brett Phares to create individual, site-specific digital art pieces that will be entered into the juried Digital Graffiti festival to be held for the eighth year June 4–6 throughout the town of Alys Beach.

Demirjian, Goldman and Martin

▪ Grayton Beer Company has launched an Artist Series, an initiative in which the brewery features designs from local artists on its 22-ounce seasonal beers. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of these beers will go toward art-based programs and charities in the Panhandle. Grayton’s spiced pumpkin ale, Gourdgeous, was the first beer offered in these 22-ounce bottles and also the first beer featured in the Artist Series. The bottle displays artwork created by one of Grayton Beer’s own brewers, Tyler White, and is a play on Grayton’s brew house using pumpkins in place of the brewing vessels. ▪ Sacred Heart Health System has expanded its fleet of emergencytransport vehicles. A custom-designed Neonatal Critical Care Transport Unit vehicle has been added to Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast in Miramar Beach; a Pediatric Critical Care Transport Unit has been added to Pensacola; and an AIRHeart Bell 407 air ambulance, which covers up to a 250-mile radius from its home base in Crestview, has been added.

KUDOS … ▪ Fort Walton Beach High School senior Trey LaNasa has been selected as a Wendy’s High School Heisman National LaNasa Finalist. LaNasa joins 11 others as National Finalists for the 21st annual Wendy’s High School Heisman Program, which honors the successes of exceptional high school seniors throughout the nation. Each of the 12 National Finalists will receive a gold medal and a $2,000 award for his or her high school. ▪ The University of West Florida has been selected to receive the 2015 Community Engagement Classification, an honor designated to 361 institutions nationwide by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. ▪ Mary Kate Myrick of Freeport High School was named the 2015 Taylor Haugen Foundation Trophy winner. She is

THE NEWEST BEAUTY ON THE BEACH Dunavant Enterprises Inc. has started construction on The Henderson, a Salamander Beach & Spa Resort, in Destin. The multi-phase project, slated for completion in spring 2016, will center around a 171-room beachfront hotel. Future phases will also add 10,000 square feet of indoor event space, including a dedicated meeting wing, a 5,400-square-foot ballroom, a junior ballroom, private boardrooms and nearly 30,000 square feet of outdoor group options, including beachfront function locations.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

scene

▪ Florida Trend magazine recognized 10 Northwest Florida area restaurants with the 2014 Golden Spoon Award. The annual Golden Spoon winners were selected by the magazine’s editorial staff and featured in a 15-page special section in the December 2014 issue. The restaurants that received the prestigious accolade are Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant, Seaside; Captain Anderson’s, Panama City Beach; Cuvee Bistro, Destin; Firefly, Panama City Beach; Fish Out of Water, Santa Rosa Beach; Global Grill, Pensacola; Jackson’s Steakhouse, Pensacola; McGuire’s Irish Pub, Destin and Pensacola; Restaurant Iron, Pensacola; and Vintij Wine Boutique, Miramar Beach. CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION … ▪ Building Homes for Heroes took home Best of Show at the fifth annual Festival of Trees in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, and was awarded the top prize of $2,000 by the panel of judges. Its display included a militarythemed Christmas tree and an elaborately furnished, custom-built miniature house that reflected its mission of building homes for veterans with disabilities. Alaqua Animal Refuge earned two awards totaling $3,000 — second place and the People’s Choice Award. ▪ EC Magazine had the best time presenting a check for $49,783.68 to the Junior League of the Emerald Coast, the benefitting charity of the Best of the Emerald Coast 2014, held in October at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin.

Carly Harmer, Tracy Mulligan, Tanya Heath, Jessica Davenport, Darla Harrison, Chelsea Rye, Stacey May Brady, Myra Williams, Rhonda Murray, Brian Rowland, Zandra Wolfgram 32 April–May 2015

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

The Emerald Coast Association of Realtors donated $875 to both Wright Elementary School in Fort Walton Beach and Bob Sikes Elementary School in Crestview. The donation will help the schools purchase equipment and other needs for their physical education programs. The association’s mission includes making a difference in the communities it serves; helping schools have better resources seemed like the perfect fit to the group’s leadership.

NEW FACES … ▪ Ken Wampler, president of association management for Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, was installed as Destin Chamber of Commerce chairman for 2015. The Chamber also recently recognized several members with awards. Fred Fenn of Fenn Properties LLC received the James D. Neilson Sr. Chairman’s Award for Volunteer Service. Magda and Corey Cooper of BOTE received the Business Person of the Year Award, and Jami Jones with Destin Charter Service received the Ann Gibson Community Service Award. ▪ Pete Knowles has been promoted to president and chief operating officer of Legendary LLC. Knowles joined Legendary in January 2013 as executive vice president. Prior to joining Legendary, which has built, developed, leased and managed more than $100 million of projects comprising millions of square feet of retail, restaurant, resort, hotel and mixed-use space, Knowles spent

24 years in finance and banking. Joni Guerrera recently was named vice president of sales and marketing and Jeremy Holcomb vice president of operations for Knowles Legendary Yacht Club at Legendary Marine in Destin. ▪ Lynnette Hayward, a nearly 30-year veteran of the retail industry, has been named the new director of retail for Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, which includes: Barefoot Hayward Princess, Island Clothiers, Coconut Kidz and Sandestin Clothing Company. Hayward replaces Sara Becnel who has moved into an expanded role as an executive director of Sandestin. ec

PHOTOS BY MCKENZIE BURLEIGH (EC CHECK PRESENTATION) AND COURTESY OF EMERALD COAST REALTY ASSOCIAION (WRIGHT AND SIKES), LEGENDARY LLC. (KNOWLES) AND SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT (HAYWARD)

the seventh high school student athlete to win this coveted award. Thirteen nominees were considered based on the character traits of the trophy’s namesake, Taylor Haugen, who passed away in 2008 of abdominal injuries suffered during a football game while playing wide receiver for Niceville High School.

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happenings EVENTS + CULTURE + CAUSES

spotlight

20th Annual Concerts in the Park

KANSAS PITTS PHOTOGRAPHY

For 20 summers, Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation has entertained the Emerald Coast with family-friendly al fresco concerts at 7 o’clock on Thursday nights during the summer (May 7 through July 2). Now parents who came as kids are bringing their children to gather on the Village green and line up lawn chairs to hear a variety of music, from Motown to modern country, Broadway and reggae, along with various tribute bands. It’s a tradition to bring along a picnic supper or purchase one from a local restaurant and uncork some wine. You can enjoy the concert series at a cloth-covered table with up to eight friends, family or clients at a VIP event table $150 while supplies last; otherwise, admission is $10 per adult. It’s free for members of Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation and children under 12. Kicking off the 2015 season is a special appearance by December 63, featuring the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, on Saturday, April 11. Tickets to that event are $20 for foundation members and $25 for non-members. Kids under 12 are free. The concerts are staged on the Dugas Pavilion in the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village located at 4323 Commons Drive West in Destin. For more information, call (850) 650-2226 or visit mattiekellyartsfoundation.org. — Zandra Wolfgram

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

culture

ELIXIR EXPERIENTIAL

WINE FESTIVALS ARE AN IMAGINATIVE WAY TO FULLY APPRECIATE LIFE’S MOST SEDUCTIVE AND MAGICAL POTION … WINE

BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

ine pairs well with the good life on the Emerald Coast. Wine tastings are not relegated to spring for whites and fall for reds any longer. From local liquor package stores along U.S. Highway 98 to fine restaurants along the coast, you can find a range of wines being poured nearly anywhere and everywhere. Heck, even your neighborhood grocer is splashing a sip into sample cups on most Saturday mornings. Most of us don’t like to be labeled, but when it comes to wine, all bets are off. Recently, local private wine labels such as the Seaside Wine Project (in concert with Kokomo Winery) and 30A Wines (in partnership with Krutz Family Cellars) are appearing on area restaurant menus and local shop shelves. You might say the Emerald Coast has gotten a bit giddy about wine. Those in the know say it’s because the world of wine is about so much more than just wine. Jean-Charles Boisset of Boisset Family Estates and La Famille Des Grands Vins, France’s third largest wine group and the Burgundy region’s largest wine producer, is one winemaker who wholeheartedly agrees with the notion that wine is a way of life. “Wine allows you to experience many cultures, history, nature, unity … divinity — the world we live in. For me, wine is a collection of experiences,” he said recently during an exclusive interview with EC Magazine. And what a place to enjoy it. With beautiful outdoor amphitheaters and open green spaces dotting nearly every beach town along the Northwest Florida coast; warm, sunny weather; and wine-loving Floridians filled with what Boisset says is a rare joie de vivre, the Emerald Coast has all the necessary ingredients to orchestrate world-class wine fetes with all the accoutrements. And the Emerald Coast does just that. During both the fall and spring in nearly every county from Escambia to South Walton, you’ll find much more than wine when you attend any one of the area’s major wine events. As if sipping and swirling several hundred domestic and imported vino varietals wasn’t enough, today’s event organizers are intoxicating all of our senses with gourmet food tastings, mood-enhancing music and educational seminars — all staged with tantalizing visual fanfare. First impressions can be lasting, so wine festival planners are paying close attention. When a wine tasting welcomes festivalgoers with a stroll down 36 April–May 2015

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

COURTESY SANDESTIN® GOLF AND BEACH RESORT COURTESY SANDESTIN® GOLF AND BEACH RESORT

The Village of Baytowne Wharf lends a scenic backdrop to the Sandestin Wine Festival held in April; Wine lovers can sip, swirl and savor sushi along with other culinary bites at Sandestin’s three-day wine soiree.

a “champagne lane” filled with bubbles floating both in the air and in crystal flutes, as is the case with the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival, the sense of celebration begins the moment the attendee arrives and goes on from there, often for several days. For nearly three decades, April has been a highly anticipated month for both local and visiting wine enthusiasts to the Emerald Coast. Nearly every wine lover in the area has the second week set aside for the three-day Sandestin Wine Festival in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. The Sandestin Wine Festival started on a rainy day in 1986 to give attendees of the Louisiana Bar Association something to do, but it has evolved into a springtime tradition for Northwest Florida’s largest resort. “When you talk about the Kentucky Derby, it is the best of the best when it comes to thoroughbred racing, and the Sandestin Wine Festival is a thoroughbred event with amazing staying power,” Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Marketing and Public Relations Director Phil Werz says. “People come year in and year out to experience it, because it’s new each year.” To keep it fresh, Sandestin, like many wine festivals these days, is serving up more than just wine to “wine and dine” festivalgoers. To help tempt wine lovers the resort will enlist the culinary talents of its new executive chef, Javier Rosa. “We’re excited to have him play an integral part in this year’s wine festival. He’s innovative, creative and uses a lot of flavor. That — along with having a lot of flair in his presentation and culinary style — has you anticipating what’s next,” Werz says. For the past few years the resort has lured back wine lovers with food and music as demonstrated by this year’s entertainment lineup featuring local music favorites such as Free Monica and Chris Alvarez along with regional acts from Nashville’s music scene. By popular demand, the festival is reprising the Champagne & Seafood Voyage aboard the Solaris on Friday afternoon and a favorite finale, Brunch on the Bay at Baytowne Marina. EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

ERIN LEDBETTER PHOTOGRAPHY

COURTESY SANDESTIN® GOLF AND BEACH RESORT

culture

COURTESY WALTON COUNTY TDC

(Clockwise) Souvenir wine glasses and tasting guides are provided gratis to guests before hitting the “tasting trail;” Area wine festivals showcase hundreds of domestic and imported vintages, like this BenMarco malbec from Argentina; Festival goers are sweet on Amavida, which treats attendees to Rosemary Beach Uncorked with samples of gourmet coffee and chocolates; The talents of regional artists, such as Australian-born country singer Sherrié Austin, (below) is yet another draw for the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival staged throughout Grand Boulevard’s town center.

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But this year the resort is kicking off the weekend with something new, and perhaps unexpected, with … a splash of yoga! “We’re calling it Mind, Body & Beach and it’s a time to relax, rejuvenate and experience the Emerald Coast’s turquoise waters and beautiful sand on Friday morning before you dive into the wine festival,” says Werz. Thanks to resident wine guru Chan Cox, for the past three years there has been even more wine, winemakers, wine suppliers and wine-pairing chefs pouring into South Walton, which is now home to the South Walton festival, held in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin during the last week of April. Each year, the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is presented with support from Visit South Walton, which hopes the event will lure thirsty visitors from throughout the Southeast to fill hotel and vacation rental accommodations before the summer tourist season gets under way in May. To help the wine turn coffers to “liquid gold,” the South Walton Tourist Development Council has officially designated the fourth weekend in April as “Northwest Florida Beaches Ultimate Wine Week.” So you could say that this year, the entire community is pulling out the stops — or stoppers, as the case may be.

After 40-plus years in the food and beverage business, Cox is keenly aware just how to keep crowds coming back. “The winning formula to a great wine event is simple,” Cox says. “You start with good wine, invite knowledgeable people to pour it, add excellent food to pair with it and build from there. By design, it becomes a truly memorable experience that people enjoy having again and again.” Part of the appeal of outdoor wine festivals is where they are located. The Emerald Coast has no shortage of wonderful amphitheaters and green spaces near the beach. So, it is no surprise that tickets to annual wine events such as Uncorked, which is staged in October throughout the cobblestone walkways of scenic Rosemary Beach, are sold out well in advance. Alys Beach is home to the 30A Wine Festival, the area’s first signature wine festival held in March. It, too, asks its attendees to venture beyond wine by serving up bourbon, beer, barbecue and … a surprisingly competitive croquet tournament. For Jeremy Walton, vice president of operations for Alys Beach, everything comes down to the experience that’s being created. “People are looking for transformative experiences,” he says. “Their engagement factor is key. When they can have a

MOANALANI JEFFREY PHOTOGRAPHY/BOISSET COLLECTION COURTESY ALYS BEACH

Guests of the 30A Wine Festival at Alys Beach pay handsomely to don all white, sip sancere and compete for a towering trophy — and bragging rights — during a rousing croquet tournament that benefits the Children’s Volunteer Health Network through The Alys Foundation; Wine superstars such as France’s Jean-Charles Boisset (above) of Boisset Family Estates lend their celebrity status in exchange for being able to pour their signature wines and debut new wine collections.

relationship to an event, it makes it even more powerful. People want to be a part of a place that is animated.” And that is exactly what Cox and his crew hope to deliver in Grand Boulevard’s Grand Park on April 23–26. Part of the sizzle for this year’s event is sure to come from appearances by nearly a dozen venerable wine superstars who will serve as first-time celebrity guests at the South Walton festival. One in particular who is sure to shine is Jean-Charles Boisset. You could say he is Franco-American wine royalty. His family’s French vineyards date back to the 17th century, and he is married to Gina Gallo, the granddaughter of Julio Gallo of E & J Gallo Winery, America’s largest winery. They have twin daughters and live in both Napa Valley and Burgundy. The dashing 45-year-old winemaker, known as the “James Bond of Burgundy and Buena Vista,” is eager to wow wine lovers by bringing for the first time to any festival what he calls “the JCB experience.” In addition to creating a lounge-like atmosphere filled with eye-catching visual displays of award-winning wines from many of his 22 wineries in France and California, Boisset’s personal chef will prepare several tasty bites, and representatives from the Boisset family of wines will be on hand to mix and mingle with guests. You’re likely

to find this charming showman center stage during the live auction of his donated lot item and in the retail tent treating fans to signed bottles and “selfies.” “A visit to our tent will allow you to travel from Sonoma to Napa to Carlos to Burgundy to the south of France and the Rhone Valley, exploring a collection of very unique wines, each with different flavors, styles and textures that can really fulfill the dream of everything from an aperitif to a dessert wine,” he says. There is plenty of food and flare at South Walton festival, but the real draw — as is usually the case with most wine festivals — is the opportunity to discover new wines by tasting them. Saturday and Sunday’s Grand Tasting will showcase more than 800 domestic and imported wines. Many tasters save their palates (and wallets) for each year’s award-winning wines. This year a panel of 24 industry experts gathered at the Hilton Sandestin in January for a blind judging of flights of wine in 72 different categories such as “cabernet sauvignon under $20” and gave gold, silver, bronze and Best of Show (red and white) medals to 216 wines. Boisset wines earned 14 medals, including Domaine de la Vougeraie 1er Cru Beaune Clos du Roi 2010, which was voted a Gold medal and a Best of Show runner-up.

Wine can be complicated, but Boisset says it shouldn’t be intimidating. He gives the same advice to the wine novice as he does to the pro: “Be curious. Be adventurous. Let your sense guide your taste of wine, and allow yourself to celebrate your own senses.” Though he tops every power list in the wine industry, Boisset would much prefer to be considered an artist than a businessman. Almost to prove his point, he shares his creed, which is, “I don’t desire to just make wine, I wish to create dreams.” The South Walton festival’s partnership with the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation means dreams will come true for some in our community who need them most. To date, the foundation has raised $8 million for local children’s charities since it formed 10 years ago, placing it at No. 6 on Wine Spectator magazine’s list of Top 10 Charity Wine Auctions in the United States. Yes, the Emerald Coast’s proverbial wine cup runneth over, and once again this spring during “wine season,” everyone from the newbie to the aficionado is poised and ready to drink it all in. If festivals came with directions, they might say: “For best results, pair with family and friends, then sip, savor and celebrate every delicious moment.” ec EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

thecalendar april + may

+regional

April 25–May 2 The 16th USTA Tallahassee

Tennis Challenger takes place in Tallahassee’s beautiful Forest Meadows Tennis Complex. The tournament, which features several former top50 players and some of the top doubles players in the world, will benefit the D. Mark Vogter, M.D., Memorial Endowment for Neuro-Intensive Care and the Yealdhall Challenger Tennis Fund at Friends of Our Parks. Tickets may be purchased at the TMH Foundation, 1331 E. Sixth Ave., or at the Tennis Challenger. For more information, a schedule of events and ticket information, visit tallahasseechallenger.com.

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+wine

29th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival April 16–19 Affectionately known as the “Kentucky

Derby of the South,” the Sandestin Wine Festival is three days filled with festive white tents flowing with wine, food and fun. Thousands of wine lovers will converge in The Village of Baytowne Wharf to enjoy tastings of hundreds of domestic and imported wines and a brunch on the Choctawhatchee Bay. The Grand Wine Tasting event kicks off Friday from 5 to 8 p.m., continues on Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. The event concludes on Sunday with a festive brunch on the bay at Baytowne Marina from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets for Friday are $55; Saturday is $85, or purchase a combo ticket for Friday and Saturday for $125; Sunday is $60. For more information, visit sandestinwinefestival.com.

COURTESY SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT

Tallahassee Tennis Challenger

Wednesdays

+style

Emerald Coast Top Salon April 10 One of the Emerald Coast’s

most stylish charity events is back once again, gathering the who’s who of the Northwest Florida salon industry at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa at 7 p.m. on April 10 for a night of makeovers, music, food, fun and surprises. The fourth annual celebration, made possible by our presenting sponsor The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, challenges salon teams to use all of their creative talents during a 24-hour head-to-toe makeover of 11 local “models,” who will reveal their new looks in a dazzling runway showcase.

Tickets are $55. Tickets include food, drink and door prize entry. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the charity of the winning salon’s choice. Tickets are limited, so purchase online at emeraldcoastmagazine.com/top-salon.

TRISTIN KROENING

compiled by Leanne Castro For more events in the EC, visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Wednesday Night Concert Series Enjoy this outdoor music concert series featuring live performers, bands and musicians. FREE. Events Plaza, The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Miramar Beach. 7–9 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

Fridays

Downtown Art Walk Every third Friday of the month stroll Fort Walton Beach’s historic district and visit merchants from participating shops and restaurants while enjoying art demonstrations, live music, complimentary refreshments and special discounts. FREE. Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 5:30–8:30 p.m. For more information, email Jennifer Bundrick at downtownfwbartwalk@gmail.com. Live Music Fridays What better way to ring in spring than with waterfront views and live music? Sandestin’s Marina Bar and Grill invites you to do just that every Friday in April and May. FREE. 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Destin. 6–9 p.m. (850) 267-7778, sandestin.com/events

Saturdays

Seaside Farmers Market Get your pick of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings during Seaside’s market on Saturday mornings. Held behind Raw & Juicy. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com Grand Boulevard Farmers’ Market This outdoor market features dozens of unique vendors offering locally sourced produce, eggs, milk, cream, butter, grass-fed beef, chicken, lamb, pork, local honey, pickled vegetables and gourmet jams, as well as flowers, herbs, soaps and lotions. FREE. Grand Park in Grand Boulevard, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (850) 837-3099, grandboulevard.com

Artist Bazaar View the wares of local artists, craftspeople and artisan vendors at the Artists at Gulf Place at the new weekly Artist Bazaar. FREE. Gulf Place on 30A and 393. 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m. 30aArtistBazaar.com

Sundays

The Market at Gulf Place An outdoor farmer’s market on the green at Gulf Place. Find fresh fruit, vegetables, handmade crafts, organic items and more — all produced by local farmers and artisans. Enjoy the Artist Bazaar during the market, as well as live music on Sunday evenings. FREE. Gulf Place on 30A and Highway 393. 3–7 p.m., with live music 6–9 p.m. in the amphitheater. (850) 200-6805 (Lindsey) or (850) 879-7296 (Allison), facebook.com/ marketatgulfplace

Through April 10

Van Porter Art Show The Arts and Design Society (ADSO) presents a special exhibit showcasing the art of Okaloosa County high school students. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception April 9, 5–7 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, Noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 1–30

ADSO Window Art Display The Arts & Design Society (ADSO) presents the works of Isabel Smith, who works in ceramics, clay and acrylics, on display in the studio windows of the Art Center, fronting First Street. Fort Walton Beach. Drive by and stop to see these works. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., SE, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org/

April 5

Easter Lunch Cruise Hop aboard the Solaris yacht for an Easter experience your family will always remember. Start your voyage on the sky deck to take in the fresh coastal breezes and panoramic views of the landscape.

+party

The Little Black Dress Party May 16 Voted best event on the Emerald Coast (2013), The Little Black Dress Party is a chance for ladies (and gents!) to gather at the Sandestin Linkside Conference Center to celebrate life and good health. The sixth annual festive fete will treat partygoers to a silent auction, delicious food and drinks, dancing and entertainment. Proceeds benefit the White-Wilson Community Foundation and help provide mammograms to underserved women within our community. Tickets are $90 for individuals. Corporate tables are available for $850. For more information, call (850) 863-8112 or visit fwblittleblackdress.com.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

thecalendar Enjoy a three-course, chef-prepared lunch while leisurely cruising the local waters. $58 adults, $35 children. Baytowne Marina, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway, Miramar Beach. 1–3 p.m. (850) 650-2519, sunquestcruises.com

donations. Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island, 1450 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. (850) 269-7234, jlec.org

April 14–17

‘A Real Gem’ Art Show Arts & Design Society hosts a showcase of the work members of the Gem and Mineral Society. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, Noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 9–12

Crab Cruncher Classic Spend a weekend by the sea either competing or watching as dozens of the top cobia fishing teams from all over the Gulf Coast converge at Harbor Docks to compete for over $200,000 in cash and prizes. FREE to watch, $750 to enter. Harbor Docks, 538 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 4–8 p.m. (850) 837-2506, cobiaworldchampionships.com

April 16–18

Emerald Coast Motorcycle Challenge Calling all motorcycle enthusiasts. Whether you are a novice or expert rider, the Emerald Coast Motorcycle Challenge has a competition for you. Ease into it with a day of practice, and then try your hand at competition by riding along an obstacle course. Free to watch, $45 to ride. Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island, 1450 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach. Fri 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat–Sun 8 a.m.–3 p.m. (850) 259-0082, emeraldcoastchallenge.com

April 10–11

Fifth Annual Marvel of Flight Honoring the Tuskegee Airmen of World War II, this two-day family friendly aviation expo features insight into the lives of the brave Tuskegee Airmen along with aircraft displays, flight demonstrations, pilot workshops, kids activities, music, food and more. This year’s theme is “Rising Above Adversity.” FREE. DeFuniak Springs Airport, 1931 U.S. 90, DeFuniak Springs. Times vary. (850) 892-2000, marvelofflight.com

April 17

The Solaris’ Sandestin Wine Festival Kickoff Seafood and Champagne Cruise Celebrate the kick-off of the highly anticipated Sandestin Wine Festival by cruising the open waters on the luxurious 125-foot Solaris yacht. Patrons will embark on an unforgettable day that begins with a Dockside Reception at noon with hors d’oeuvres and sparkling bubbly. It’s smooth sailing for the rest of the afternoon as guests enjoy all three decks of the Solaris yacht, including the open air sky deck and three additional coastal cuisine courses. $80. Noon– 3 p.m. (850) 650-2519, sunquestcruises.com

April 11

Disney Pixar in Concert Watch your favorite Pixar moments come to life on a giant screen while Sinfonia Gulf Coast orchestra performs the film scores. Selections from all fourteen Pixar films including “Toy Story,” “A Bug’s Life,” “Finding Nemo,” “Cars,” “The Incredibles” and more, will be a feast for your eyes and ears. Round up the entire family for this once-in-a-lifetime concert opportunity. $29.50–$42.50. Emerald Coast Convention Center, 1250 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 269-7229, sinfoniagulfcoast.org

April 17–June 13

Between the Layers The Pensacola Museum of Art, in partnership with First City Arts Center, presents a dual exhibition that explores the imagery of artist, Rachael Pongetti, and her creation of the “Pensacola Graffiti Bridge Project.” FREE. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson

April 11

Touch-A-Truck Touch-A-Truck offers children a hands-on opportunity to explore working trucks of all types and to meet the people who build, protect and serve our community. Free, accepting

St., Pensacola. 5:30–7 p.m. (850) 432-6247, pensacolamuseum.org

April 18–19

LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival One-of-a-kind art works from over 150 U.S. artists, culinary delights and free entertainment for the whole family will fill Downtown Tallahassee’s Chain of Parks from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This premier outdoor fine arts festival is the perfect weekend activity for art enthusiasts or for those who just want to spend some time relaxing outside. For more information, call (850) 222-8800 or visit chainofparks.com.

April 21–May 1

Fun Fest Posters Show The Arts & Design Society (ADSO) hosts The Okaloosa Arts Alliance Poster Competition for its annual Family Fun Fest. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception April 24, 6–8 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues– Fri, Noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 22

ADSO Speaker Luncheon Arts & Design Society (ADSO) presents awardwinning pastel artist Melody Bogle, who also works in oils to render beaches, portraits and plein aire pieces, as its April luncheon speaker. $12. Reservations after April 20 are $15. Art Center, 17 First St., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 24–25

Destin Charity Wine Auction Ranked among the “Top 10 Charity Wine Auction in the U.S.” by Wine Spectator magazine, the Destin Charity Wine Auction hosts preeminent vintners from around the world, including 2015 celebrity vintner Marc Perrin of Chateau Beaucastle. Event includes patron dinners, South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival, reserve tasting and live auction. Proceeds benefit children in need in Northwest Florida. $2,500. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin in Miramar Beach. Go online for a full schedule of dates and times. (850) 650-3732, dcwaf.org

+wine & food

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival COURTESY WALTON COUNTY TDC

April 24–26 Grand Park in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin will transform into an

42 April–May 2015

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

international wine and food epicenter for three days in April. Come experience wine, champagne, culinary delights, educational seminars, live entertainment, a live wine auction and more. Mix and mingle and sip and sample alongside celebrity chefs and winemakers, who will be on hand to talk about the nuances of more than 800 domestic and imported wines.

The festival kicks off with a Craft Beer & Spirit Jam ($50) on Friday, and continues with a Grand Tasting ($85) Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Tickets to the Grand Tasting followed by the Destin Charity Wine Auction Reserve Tasting are $165. Proceeds from the festival benefit Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation to support children’s charities in Northwest Florida. Check website for times. (850) 837-3099 ext. 3, sowalwine.com

WOS_Win15_7.25x4.875_dmkPrint.pdf

1/30/15

10:24 AM

April 11-12, 2015 Cascades [Park] Tallahassee, FL C

CMY

100+ musicians

35+ authors

4 stages

1 unforgettable weekend

View Artists and Schedule at: www.WordofSouthFestival.com

/WordOfSouthFestival /WordOfSouthFest

Digital Graffiti 2015 at Alys Beach Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach is a festival of digital virtuosity from all over the world. Join Alys Beach at the intersection of art, technology, and architecture. June 4–6, 2015 Visit digitalgraffiti.com alysbeach.com | 866.481.8390

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

bringing

the avantgarde to Niceville.

avantgarde has opened in Niceville, Florida. There are now 3 beautiful locations to elevate your hair style and pamper yourself. We offer a variety of service price points based on our stylists’ experience and education.

Proud to offer Fresh Talent pricing, where luxury is affordable. Women’s cuts $25 — includes scalp massage, blow dry and style. Men’s cuts $20 — includes hot towel scalp massage, shampoo and style

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EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

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avantgardeaveda.com

socialstudies

Tina Gullickson, Brendon Grimes and Nadirah Shakoor

Michael Utley and Eric Riggenbach

Jimmy Buffet Coral Reefer Band Jam Oct. 27, 2014 Jimmy Buffet’s Coral Reefer Band made a special appearance in Fort Walton Beach to perform a backyard concert at the home of Eric and Pam Riggenbach. The fun and festive event, hosted by My Financial Leaders and in partnership with the national organization Singing for Change, raised $6,500 for local charities. Photos by Pam Riggenbach and Audrey Halter

Moni Carron, Andrea Young and Dr. Mark Riggenbach

Nathanael Fisher as Mozart Janet Greeno, Demetrius Fuller and Liz Aylor

Paint the Music Concert

Tracy Silverman and the Electric Violinist

Jan. 23, 2015 Sinfonia Gulf Coast treated 1,300 area elementary and middle schoolers to a day of music and art at Destiny Worship Center. Students strolled through an art exhibit of 500 pieces of music-inspired children’s artwork, and then attended a special orchestra performance featuring electric violinist Tracy Silverman and a special host, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, portrayed by Emerald Coast Theatre Company producing artistic director Nathanael Fisher. Photos by Kay Phelan EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

thecalendar April 24–26

2015 Musical Echoes Flute & Cultural Event The annual festival celebrating Native American music and crafts is back. Guests can enjoy music, dancing, vendors and educational workshops. FREE. The Fort Walton Landing, 131 Brooks St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. Go online for a full schedule of dates and times. (850) 837-9828, musicalechoes.org

April 25

COLORS

This palette is a calm and soothing pastel combination. The colors flow easily and do not compete with each other in terms of brightness. These colors encourage a sense of both, happiness and peace. The pink and blue are referential to the name, while the other two colors are gender and age neutral. This palate works well with a lot of white and therefore, creates the allusion of more space which can be beneficial in design for print, web, and store/display design.

Pottery Expo Youth Art Competition  Heritage Park and Cultural Center hosts its annual pottery competition for Okaloosa County art students. Visitors will have the opportunity to not only browse the pottery collection but also to vote on their favorite entries. FREE. 139 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 833-9595, fwb.org/museums

May 1–31

ADSO Window Art Display Come see the works of Thalia Newton, an artist of diverse talents, in the studio windows of the Art Center, fronting First Street. Fort Walton Beach. Drive by and stop to see these works. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., SE, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org/

May 2

avenue

N or

avenue 4467 Commons Dr. W., Destin (in front of Fresh Market)

Open daily 10-6 | 850.424.5707 @PinkNBlueAvenue | www.pinknblueavenue.net

46 April–May 2015

May 2

Cinco de Mayo Celebration with Cantina Laredo Cantina Laredo Gourmet Mexican Food restaurant presents its annual Cinco de Mayo festivities featuring live music, dancing, face painting and delicious, authentic Mexican food and drinks. There is something for the whole family to enjoy. FREE. Grand Park, 585 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. (850) 837-3099, grandboulevard.com

May 5

The Derby Party Benefitting the Junior League of the Emerald Coast, come watch the Kentucky Derby in style while enjoying Mint Juleps, delicious food, live entertainment and a silent auction. $55. Rutherford’s 465 at Regatta Bay. 3–7 p.m. (850) 269-7234, jlec.org

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Cinco de Mayo Dinner Fiesta Cruise Bring your sombrero and gear up for a caliente night on the Solaris yacht for a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta and Dinner Cruise. Get ready for the most delicious and festive Mexican celebration this side of the border with cocktails, dinner and live music on the water. $80. Baytowne Marina, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy West, Miramar Beach. 7–10 p.m. (850) 650-2519, sunquestcruises.com

May 5–29

‘Shiver Me Timbers’ Art Show All art in this show will reflect the spirit of pirates and Billy Bowlegs, as the Arts & Design Society (ADSO) works in conjunction with the Greater FWB Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the festival. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception May 8, 6–8 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, Noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

May 8–10

ArtsQuest Fine Arts and Music Festival Produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) and presented by Visit South Walton, ArtsQuest is held on Mother’s Day weekend and features 130 exhibiting artists, art workshops, live demonstrations, music and more. One of the largest art festivals in the Southeast, ArtsQuest attracts talented artists from around the country to South Walton to participate in the juried art show and compete for $10,000 in cash awards. FREE. $5 entry donation is appreciated. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Boulevard, Miramar Beach. Check website for times. (850) 622-5970, artsquestflorida.com

30a Store 30a Vet • Artists at Gulf Place Celestine’s Special Occasions Coastal Paradise • Dipity Du Dah Kids Furry Fanatics • Islanders Coastal Outﬁtters Jade Nails • Jewel Toffier • Kindal’s Hair Studio La Playa • Ocean Elements Day Spa • Perfect Pig Pilates by the Sea • Pizza by the Sea Preacher's Kitchen ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals Santa Rosa Pharmacy • Soho Boutiques Sunrise Coffee Co. • Trustmark Bank YOLO Board + Bike

FARMER’S MARKET EVERY SUNDAY

12-4pm

Family Dentistry Gentle, professional care and state-of-the-art equipment Comprehensive dental evaluation Same-day emergency appointments Accepting most PPO insurance Nitrous oxide sedation available

Dentistry for the Entire Family

1536 John Sims Pkwy, Niceville (in The Crossing Plaza next to Publix) 850.279.6657 | www.nicevilledental.com EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

Mike Olivella

Meet YouR Match

Robby Ginepri Winner of the 2014 French Open Wild Card

attend the final tournament of the Har-Tru USTa Pro Circuit Wild Card Challenge and see the greatest tennis stars face off for a chance to earn a Main Draw Wild Card into the French Open. Bring your family, and watch the action. April 25–May 2, 2015 at Forestmeadows Tennis Center in Tallahassee, FL. For more information about tickets, sponsorships or volunteer opportunities, visit our website or call the TMH Foundation at 431-5389.

tall ahasseechallenger.com

Life is short, let’s make it fun! CornerStone Financial Consultants Eric Riggenbach | (850) 862-8082 | Fort Walton Beach, FL | myfinancialleaders.com 48 April–May 2015

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

socialstudies

Christiana Moore and Nayely Arroyo

Kevin Derrickson, Heather Walker and Adrian DeSantiago

2015 Taste of Champions Jan. 30, 2015 Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) kicked off its 10-year anniversary at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa where wine lovers savored light bites and an exclusive “first taste” of more than 600 wines, including the medal winning wines to be featured at the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival April 24–26. Proceeds will benefit children in need in Northwest Florida. Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Stacey Brady and Marla Norman-Freytag

Gretchen Erickson and Chef Ernie Danjean Ryan Larson, Mike Sable, Gretchen Erickson, Peggy McLane

Destin Desserts

Chef Holly Janitor, Gretchen Erickson, Peggy McLane

Jan. 30, 2015 Seven local chefs reinvented their favorite Girl Scout cookie during a “bake off” at The Palms of Destin Resort. Victory was sweet at the fourth annual event for chef Ernie Danjean of Niceville’s Dockside Café & Oyster Bar whose reinvention of the Savannah Smiles cookie impressed the panel of judges. Bijoux Destin’s chef Holly Janitor took second by making a Tiramisu parfait inspired by Tagalongs, and Chef Ruston Johnston of Ruth’s Chris Steak House earned third place for his Thin Mint chocolate creation. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Girl Scout Council’s Camp Kolomoki, located near DeFuniak Springs. Photos by Kay Phelan EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

thecalendar +save the date

Digital Graffiti June 4-6 Art, architecture and new technology come together

at the eighth annual Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach, the world’s first projection art festival. Innovative artists use the latest technologies to project their original artwork onto the stunning alabaster architecture, walls and bridges throughout the town of Alys Beach. Inspiration abounds as digital artists from around the world come together to compete for $10,000 in cash prizes at this dynamic threeday art fete. Festivalgoers are treated to artist meet and greets, live interactive art demonstrations, DJ and VJ music performances, arty animated surprises and plenty of food and beverage booths at the must-not-miss event of the summer season. Digital Graffiti was voted Best Event by readers of EC magazine and listed as one of 52 Amazing Weekends by Florida Travel and Life Magazine.

Proceeds benefit The Alys Foundation. For a full schedule and ticket information, visit digitalgraffiti.com.

4-Passenger Starting at

6-Passenger Starting at

$6,999

$8,999

May 10

Mother’s Day Lunch Cruise Give her an experience as amazing as she is. This Mother’s Day, skip the crowded restaurants and take her on a memorable, relaxing cruise on the Solaris yacht while indulging in a chef prepared meal. $58 adults, $35 children. Baytowne Marina, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Miramar Beach . 1–3 p.m. (850) 650-2519, sunquestcruises.com

May 16 Over 4800SF showroom with the largest selection of

“STREET LEGAL”

Electric Vehicles in the Southeast.

4th Annual Clemenza’s at Uptown Mob Night Celebration Put on your best “mob attire” and join us for a fun and fabulous familystyle dinner, wine, live music by Michael J. Thomas, prizes and more. $60 each or two for $100. Clemenza’s at Uptown, 75 Eglin Parkway NW, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 243-0707

May 16–17

4552 US HWY 98 WEST|SANTA ROSA BEACH, FL

(4 MILES EAST OF SANDESTIN BETWEEN SHRIMPERS & LOUIE-LOUIE'S)

13th Annual Art in the Park The Pensacola Museum of Art presents its annual spring art show featuring more than 100 regional and national artists for a weekend of culture and creative inspiration. FREE. Historic Seville Square, 311 E. Government St., Pensacola. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 432-6247, pensacolamuseum.org

May 27

ADSO Speaker Luncheon Arts & Design Society (ADSO) presents Alice Noyes, who segued from fiber art to basketry, as the speaker at its May luncheon. Her baskets have many styles; the Nantucket Basket is made from Florida’s palm and palmetto leaves. $12. Reservations after May 25 are $15. Art Center, 17 First St., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

May 31 www.ElectricCartCompany.com/ecmag 50 April–May 2015

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Sunday Cinema Come enjoy a movie al fresco under the stars. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Miramar Beach. 8 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com ec

PURE 7 STUDIOS

Street Legal - 22-25 MPH - 48V Long-Range Maintenance-Free Battery System - 4KW (5.5HP) Advanced DC Motor - 350A 1266R Curtis Controller - High/Low Speed Switch - 48V to 12V Voltage Reducer - 12V Powerpoint - Speedometer Cluster - Curtis Energy Meter - Hot-Dipped Galvanized Frame - 10" Polished Aluminum Wheels - Carlisle DOT-Rated Tires - Safety Glass Windshield Electric Windshield Wiper - All DOT-Approved Safety Equipment TwoTwo-Year Limited Warranty

MAY 19, 2015

7 P.M. (DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 P.M.)

WSRE JEAN & PAUL AMOS PERFORMANCE STUDIO PENSACOLA STATE COLLEGE 1000 COLLEGE BOULEVARD free admission wsre.org/speakers

PENSACOLA

WSRE PRESENTS:

RORY KENNEDY Photo credit: Lyndie Benson

ACADEMY AWARD-NOMINATED AND EMMY AWARD-WINNING PRODUCER; PRODUCER/DIRECTOR OF THE ACADEMY AWARD-NOMINATED DOCUMENTARY, “LAST DAYS IN VIETNAM”

PBS for the Gulf Coast

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2/9/15 10:33 AM

K ids on ca mpus Kids On Campus is a unique opportunity for summer enrichment and fun learning in a college environment.

For Kids Entering 3rd thru 8th Grade

Monday – Thursday, Niceville Campus

Sports ~ Art ~ Academics ~ Dance ~ Music

Session 1: June 15 - 25

Session 2: July 13 - 23

Register: Online May 12 In Person May 14 all NWFSC locations Registration Ends: Session 1 – June 10 Session 2 – June 26 www.nwfsc.edu/koc • (850) 729-6086 • KOC@nwfsc.edu • 100 College Blvd. E., Niceville, FL 32578

EA/EO

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

UNDERWATER HUNTERS ANGLERS TURN TO SPEARFISHING TO CATCH THAT ELUSIVE FISH STORY BY DANIELLE BUENROSTRO // PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUSTIN POWELL

52 April–May 2015

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

On a recent spearfishing expedition for cobia in the warm Gulf waters Austin Powell (far left) and Kyle Howard patiently wait their turn as bonita and sharks engage in a feeding frenzy.

ome people prefer to wait for a fish to find their bait on a line dangling from a boat, pier or shoreline. Others choose to dive down on a tank of air or even freedive and spear them in their underwater lair. For both, it’s the thrill of the chase and a fresh fish meal. For spearfishermen, it’s the culmination of many adrenaline activities rolled into one. “It’s boating, fishing, hunting and diving all at the same time,” said Bob Provost, owner of Discovery Dive World in Valparaiso. “It never gets old. You never know what you’re going to see every time you go underwater.” Provost has been diving since 1984 and says he can’t get enough of the adventure every spearfishing dive brings. As a former Air Force pilot who was stationed all over the world, he’s had the opportunity to dive in many unique

places. When he came to the Emerald Coast and decided to buy a dive shop in 2007, he was filling a void by supporting divers and spearfishing enthusiasts with an extensive selection of gear, proper training, travel and competition. Ever since, he’s seen the sport of spearfishing grow in the area significantly. Provost’s shop offers eight different scuba diving classes, including the PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) Underwater Hunter certification taught by diving veteran Bryan Kennington. Kennington instructs divers on fishing regulations, fish identification, how to safely spear fish, mastering the kill shot and how to safely get it to the boat. Provost recommends that anyone interested in spearfishing first get a few dives under his or her belt. “When a diver is completely relaxed while diving, then they are ready to spearfish,” he said.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

UNDERWATER HUNTERS Spearfishing is distracting and requires the ability to multitask underwater. For example, a spearfisherman might be wrestling a fish but must also keep checking his or her air supply and bottom time. “No fish is worth no air,” Provost said. Besides the inherent risk of scuba diving, Provost says the risk is low when it comes to sharks, and he’s never heard of a spearfisherman being bitten by a shark. “You are not in their food chain,” he said. “They are curious and only want the fish that’s on you.” According to Provost, the five most common fish for local spearfishermen are snapper, grouper, cobia, amberjack and flounder. Some fish are off limits to spearfishing, such as pompano and red drum. His personal favorites are cobia and gray triggerfish, because they taste similar to halibut. Kennington said he believes spearfishing is much more ethical and conservative than line fishing because divers are selective and leave no line behind. He personally enjoys the challenge of spearfishing amberjack, which he calls the “donkey of the sea,” because it puts up a tough fight if you don’t get a kill shot. Kennington, who is also a dive equipment technician, said he’s noticed that there is more of a diverse group of people diving because of underwater scooters, which propel divers to explore with less effort and half the air, and digital photography attracting people to the sport. But one factor working against the sport is the closure of fisheries, short fishing seasons and limits for some fish such as snapper that discourage divers from going out because the cost to fill up a boat to catch only one fish doesn’t seem worth the gas money. Regardless, Provost has seen an exponential increase and interest in his annual dive and spearfishing charters to the Keys, as well as participation in the Gulf Coast Reef Hunter Annual Spearfishing Tournament. Discovery Dive World began the competition in 2010 with 15 participants, and it has grown to more than 50 contestants. The event is held every September at Northlight Marina in Niceville. For one day, divers hunt and weigh in their largest fish in various species categories to win more than $2,000 in dive gear. “People love it and have a great time,” Provost said. A special award in the Warrior Category was created to recognize the growing active-duty military personnel who are spearfishing in the area. One of those champs is Miramar Beach resident Tony Sanabria, who caught an award-winning 21.3-pound amberjack in 2013. Sanabria enjoys bringing the fight to the fish and slaying tasty meals. “I’ve done a lot of rod-and-reel fishing as well, but there is something cool about going down to 100 feet and choosing the fish you want to eat for dinner,” he said. Sanabria is an NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors) master diver and an elite military diver with many underwater expeditions on the Emerald Coast and Florida Keys under his belt. Diving as deep as 148 feet looking for big gag groupers is just a typical Saturday for Sanabria and his dive buddies. 54 April–May 2015

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2015 GULF COAST REEF HUNTER 5TH ANNUAL SPEARFISHING TOURNAMENT The 5th Annual Gulf Coast Reef Hunter Spearfishing Competition will be held on Sept. 12 at Northlight Marina in Niceville. The event, sponsored by Discovery Dive World, is the largest spearfishing tournament in Northwest Florida, with more than 50 competitors. Awards are given for the biggest amberjack, grouper, snapper, lionfish and triggerfish caught. Other awards are given for the largest fish caught by active-duty military personnel and by a freediver. Shooters can participate as a freediver or scuba diver and can even mix the method in which they conduct their underwater hunt. The weigh-in and awards ceremony are held at the marina with a buffet dinner. For more information, visit discoverydiveworld.com.

On this free dive Jimmy Vuong hunts, spears and wrestles down his first cobia.

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The challenge is on as Jimmy Vuong searches for the ever elusive cobia.

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MATT BURKE

UNDERWATER HUNTERS

Mike Pooler

“THE PINNACLE OF OUR SPORT IS TAKING LARGE PELAGICS LIKE WAHOO AND BIG TUNAS. THE HARDEST TO TARGET IN OUR AREA FROM MY EXPERIENCE IS KING MACKEREL.” MIKE POOLER, OWNER OF BENTHIC OCEAN SPORTS “The beauty of Destin-area diving is you don’t have to drop deep to get big fish,” he said. “My favorite spot is classified; all Gulf Coast fishermen keep their spots to themselves.” Northwest Florida is the perfect area for successful spearfishing because the water visibility is ideal, the best fish are in season and there are many sunken wrecks where large game fish dwell. Despite the beauty, spearfishing is a serious sport not to be taken lightly. Sanabria says it’s important to know how to handle stressful water environments while pushing the limits. “As long as you can stay calm in the water and be aware of your surroundings, you can be a good spearfisherman,” he said. “With practice, you will get better at placing kill shots (2 inches behind the eyes), which makes it easier to get control of the fish.”

The keys to having a successful spearfishing trip are having a plan and heading out early. “Try and do your deepest dive first and plan good surface intervals,” he said. “You should plan on what type of fish you’re going after, so you can focus on where they will be. Have plenty of ice on hand for your prized fish.” Now that he’s mastered spearfishing on a tank, Sanabria plans to learn more about freedive spearfishing, which involves hunting a fish on a breath hold instead of scuba equipment. Many scuba divers are giving up the tank and exploring spearfishing with just a mask, fins and the air in their lungs. According to Mike Pooler, owner of Benthic Ocean Sports, a new freedive-specific spearfishing shop that opened in Destin in March 2014, freediving is more streamlined and unencumbered by bulky scuba gear.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

FLORIDA PANHANDLE SHIPWRECK TRAIL

FORT WALTON BEACH

PENSACOLA

(flpanhandledivetrail.com)

1 2

PANAMA CITY

3 4

8 9

10 11

HAPPY TRAILS! Water lovers can dive right in and experience a dozen spectacular,

storied shipwrecks, all just a day’s-drive distance between Pensacola and Port St. Joe. You can start at any point on the Florida Panhandle Shipwreck Trail (flpanhandledivetrail.com), which is accessible yearround. Each of the 12 sunken sites varies from 25 to 100 feet. If you charter a trip, all necessary equipment is supplied and experienced crew members dive along with each group. Two 30- to 45-minute dives are included on an average day trip, and some even include a hot lunch. There are more than 20 charter outfits to choose from located all along the Emerald Coast. Whether you want to dive, snorkel or fish, you are sure to encounter fascinating marine life at each shipwreck site, which has its own story to tell. Ask for a free four-color Passport brochure and keep track of your dive adventures along the trail.

PORT ST. JOE

THREE COAL BARGES 1

YDT-14 4

BLACK BART 7

USS STRENGTH 10

Depth: 50 feet Length: 140 feet Location: 30º 17.450’N/087º 13.257’W

Depth: 90 feet Length: 132.5 feet Location: 30º 05.330’N/087º 09.640’W

Depth: 85 feet Length: 185 feet Location: 30º 03.648’N/085º 49.433’W

Depth: 80 feet Width: 184.5 feet Location: 30º 1.936’N/085º 42.413’W

In 1974, while en route to a designated offshore reef site, the Three Coal Barges broke free and were sunk in an emergency operation in their current location.

Constructed in Erie, Pennsylvania, in 1942, this rig navigated the South Atlantic and Caribbean waters during her naval career before being sunk as an artificial reef in 2000.

Christened Vulcano del Golfo in 1977, this offshore oilfield supply vessel became an artificial reef in 1993 under the moniker Black Bart.

A World War II minesweeper, she saw action off Iwo Jima and Okinawa, where she survived both a midget submarine attack and a kamikaze raid. A separated bow and hull makes for a great swim through for this wreck sunk in 1987.

SAN PABLO 2

USS ORISKANY 5

Depth: 80 feet Length: 315 feet Location: 30º 11.333’N/087º 13.057’W

Depth: 60 feet Length: 888 feet Location: 30º 02.555’N/087º 00.397’W

Employed to transport fruit from South America to Boston, she was sunk by a U-boat in Costa Rica on Aug. 11, 1944, during World War II, and later blown up in a secret military operation off the coast of Pensacola.

One of the most popular dive destinations in the United States, this aircraft carrier, which was sunk in 2006, is the largest artificial reef in the world.

Pensacola

MISS LOUISE 6 Destin

PETE TIDE II 3 Pensacola

Depth: 100 feet Length: 166 feet Location: 30º 08.767’N/087º 14.017’W After servicing the Gulf for years, supplying workers and materials to offshore oil rigs, Pete Tide II became an artificial reef in 1993.

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Pensacola

Depth: 60 feet Length: 95 feet Location: 30º 22.282’N/086º 25.315’W Resting upright on a sandy bottom, Miss Louise is a perfect shipwreck for novice and intermediate divers.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Panama City

FAMI TUGS 8 Panama City

Depth: 100 feet Length: 185 feet Location: 29º 58.132’N/085º 51.259’W A Gulf storm placed these two boats on top of one another making the FAMI Tugs twice over a great artificial reef experience since being sunk in 2003.

USS ACCOKEEK 9 Panama City

Depth: 100 feet Width: 143 feet Location: 29º 58.475’N/085º 51.915’W This fleet tug spent 26 years in service assisting damaged ships from Okinawa and throughout the North and South Atlantic and even the Panama Canal before being sunk in 2000.

Panama City

USS CHIPPEWA 11 Depth: 100 feet Length: 205 feet Location: 29º 57.700’N/085º 48.220’W Sunk as a Navy training platform in 1990, the Chippewa, which once broke tug boat speed records and carried a torpedo a bomber, now rests upright on the bottom of 100 feet of water.

VAMAR 12 Port St. Joe

Depth: 25 feet Width: 170 feet Location: 29º 53.941’N/085º 27.806’W One of the best shallow-water dives along the Emerald Coast, this tramp freighter was a support ship for a 1928 expedition to the Antarctic and was sank in 1942 under mysterious circumstances.

MATT BURKE

UNDERWATER HUNTERS

“You’re able to see and interact (or hunt) with sea life easier since you’re not scaring everything away with bubbles,” Pooler said. “It’s definitely more of a purist form of diving. You don’t need to be an athlete, but it is more physically demanding.” Pooler said the basic gear is different from standard snorkel or scuba equipment. The fins are much longer and made of different materials. The masks are smaller, with lower internal air volumes, so it’s easier to equalize air pressure; the wetsuits are usually open cell neoprene, which is warmer and more flexible; and the weight belts are rubber. All of this minimalist equipment helps a freediver get to a fish faster and safely. “The pinnacle of our sport is taking large pelagics like wahoo and big tunas,” Pooler said. “The hardest to target in our area from my experience is king mackerel.” Freediving has been evolving quickly, mostly due to organizations such as Freediving Instructors International developing formal training and certifications for the sport. “Those courses really are the key to getting started in the sport, diving safely and more effectively,” Pooler said. Noted as one of the most accomplished divers and spearfishermen in the area, Joe D’Agostino operates Emerald Coast

Joe D’Agostino

Freediving and teaches classes for Benthic Ocean Sports and clients in the area. D’Agostino started freediving in 1996, the same year he became a lifeguard. Now, he is Beach Safety Division Chief for the Destin Fire Control District, an FII Level 3 certified freediver, a Level 1 instructor and a Waterman Survival instructor. Some of his prized catches include a 130-pound yellowfin tuna and an 83-pound amberjack in Mexico, both while freediving. “Growing up, I did a lot of bow hunting and bass fishing,” he said. “Freedive spearfishing was a natural sort of progression. I have never speared a fish on scuba. I have nothing against it, it is just not my sport.” The key to freediving is proper training, since there are dangers to holding your breath underwater for extended periods of A.J. Hally time. D’Agostino says pauses to his FII course teaches snap proof of his free diving students how to reach prowess with depths of 132 feet on a beautiful mahi mahi or one breath. His Wadolphin fish. terman Survival class helps water enthusiasts train for an unexpected breath hold, such as when a kayaker flips his vessel. “Anyone can freedive as long as they have basic swim skills,” he said. “You can train your body to accomplish incredible

feats. Some of the students I have had are going down to 60 feet and staying on the bottom for 30 seconds.” The sport is getting popular on the Emerald Coast because anglers are realizing they can spearfish on a breath hold at 30 to 40 feet, and diving free from equipment gets them up close and personal with marine life. “I love the amazing things I have seen, like cruising yellowfin tuna, wahoo, marlin, whales, etc.,” D’Agostino said. “I just had a whale shark swim up to me while spearfishing yellowfin tuna on a rock pinnacle in Mexico. I grabbed ahold of its fin and got to ride it down a few meters. Awesome!” ec

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

LOCALLY GROWN. SEASONAL. FARM TO TABLE. These are words that have crept into everyone’s vocabulary. If you paused over this page long enough to read this far, odds are good that you’re at least a little interested in supporting area farmers and bringing the region’s bounty into your own kitchen. All around the Emerald Coast, every week of the year, people wander past stalls of brightly colored vegetables, freshly baked pies, hanging ropes of artisan sausages and hundreds of other items produced and artfully displayed by growers and producers who live and work a short drive from our beaches and communities. It’s a continuation of a market tradition that stretches back for thousands of years, all the way to ancient Egypt. Long before buying food meant driving to a giant store and pushing a buggy down endless aisles, farmers and their customers met each week at the local market. Foods were same-day fresh and usually peddled by the grower himself, though the selection was likely not so vast as today.

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“I really enjoy seeing the people who come to see us, the locals and the tourists,” Kolopanas said. “We talk to neighbors, everybody brings their pets and there’s a real sense of community.” Kolopanas started the Rosemary Beach market in 2013 and the Grand Boulevard market last year and recently began hosting a farmers market in WaterColor. She said that she saw an opportunity to meet a need and approached the communities with her idea. Vendors at her farmers markets and at the other ones in the area certainly sell fresh fruits and vegetables, but they’re just as likely to offer an array of other homemade products, such as organic dog treats; soaps and lotions; fresh seafood; artisan baked goods; homemade jams, jellies and salsas; freshly cut flowers; and kimchi, sushi, Vietnamese spring rolls and homemade soups, among other things. “We have a woman who sells Argentinian pastries and another who sells Turkish pickled vegetables,” Kolopanas said. “Unless you’re in a really rural area, all farmers markets now are turning into broader markets, a one-stop shop for everything you want. The farmers markets have evolved into miniature world’s fairs, with food from all around the world. It’s neat because we also get to educate people about all these international and unusual foods.” Educating customers is something George Miller, of Miller Family Aquaponics, does often. First-time customers tend to have a lot of questions about aquaponics, he said. For the past six years, he has been growing and selling the vegetables — mostly leafy greens, but also cucumbers, tomatoes and a

PURE 7 STUDIOS

PURE 7 STUDIOS PURE 7 STUDIOS

Our present-day obsession with healthy, high-quality, locally made foods is drawing new customers to participate in the farmersmarket tradition all around the country. Here in the Emerald Coast, there are more than a dozen regularly occurring farmers markets, giving shoppers ample opportunities to fill their arms with fresh greens, bright red tomatoes, crisp ears of corn and buckets of plump strawberries — and much more. Diane Kolopanas has been operating two such markets for a couple of years: the 30A Farmers Market in Rosemary Beach and the Grand Boulevard Farmers Market in Miramar Beach (adjacent to Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort).

Since Seaside Farmers Market (top and left) opened in 2007, it has grown to include an extensive array of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings every Saturday morning; Venture to Grand Boulevard’s Farmers Market (above) on Wednesdays to fill your basket with a range of fare from locallysourced fresh produce and dairy products to grass-fed beef, chicken, lamb and pork along with handmade soaps and lotions.

few other vegetables — that he raises on his Pensacola farm at the Palafox Farmers Market, and now at the markets in Rosemary Beach and Grand Boulevard as well. Miller gets some help growing his produce from the 3,000 channel catfish he has in seven 1,200-gallon tanks. Waste products from the fish are piped into the beds of the vegetables, helping the plants to grow organically. He started the aquaponics farm nearly seven years ago as a home-school science

Clean’ Eating Spots Let someone do the work for you at the one of these area restaurants that specialize in organic foods: BRIDGE SPAN 14 ORGANIC RESTAURANT 105 Carillon Market St. Ste 101 Panama City Beach (850)588-5341 CAFE ORGANIC 113 Truxton Ave. Fort Walton Beach (850) 585-3645 cafeorganicfwb.com END OF THE LINE CAFE 610 E. Wright St. Pensacola (850) 429-0336 eotlcafe.com EVER’MAN COOPERATIVE GROCERY AND CAFE 315 W. Garden St. Pensacola (850) 438-0402 everman.org HIBISCUS HOUSE CAFÉ 86 Defuniak St. Grayton Beach (850) 231-2733 hibiscusflorida.com THE SIDEWALK CAFE 103 S. Wilson St. (Main St.) Crestview (850) 974-4974 sidewalkcafenwf.com

Living in Fort Walton Beach, and they help run the Emerald Coast Organic Food Co-Op. As longtime local proponents of healthy eating and living, the Frisbees have watched as, nationally and locally, people have begun to embrace the lifestyle choices they have long preached — and they couldn’t be happier about it. “People come in and ask, ‘What is quinoa?’ and ‘What is tempeh?’ And I’m so happy and excited to tell them about it,” Karin Frisbee said. “I don’t want this to be a rich man’s game. I want everyone to be able to eat well.” For 25 years, the Frisbees, who are both chiropractors, have worked to bring healthier food and lifestyle options to the area, hosting classes on nutrition and making themselves available to answer questions. Over the past year, Karin Frisbee said, the number of people who have come into their café to ask questions about food and health choices has increased dramatically. “People are just sick and tired of feeling sick and tired, and they’re starting to connect the

SLUGGO’S 101 S. Jefferson Pensacola (850) 791-6501 sluggospcola.blogspot.com SYNERGY ORGANIC JUICE BAR AND CAFE 120 Miracle Strip Parkway Fort Walton Beach (850) 865-4919 synergyorganiccafefwb.com

MARI DARR~WELCH

project for his three children, but when Miller lost his construction job in 2010, farming became a way to support his family full time. “Without the farmers markets, we’d be out of business,” he said. “The first couple of years we did wholesale, but that’s a lot of work for just a little money. The farmers markets are a lot less aggravation, less work and a little more money.” Sometimes Miller will also bring fish fillets to the market to sell, but he says vegetables are his mainstay. And because lettuces wilt easily and his operation is too small to justify purchasing a refrigerated truck, he came up with a creative solution to sell his customers the freshest lettuce possible. “We bring it to the market live, with the roots still attached. We cut the lettuce for customers right there at the market,” Miller said. The trend toward organic and farm-fresh foods doesn’t surprise Karin Frisbee in the least. Karin and her husband, Ed, are the owners of Cafe Organic and the Center for Healthy

Cafe Organic Co-owner Karin Frisbee

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However, members pay $12 a year to join and then shop as they would at any other grocery. Anyone can shop at For the Health of It in Santa Rosa Beach, which has been selling organic produce and other healthy products since 1995.) Karin Frisbee said that Emerald Coast residents seem to be especially interested in organic meats. “People are understanding that if you feed a cow a bunch of processed grain, steroids and antibiotics, you’re not going to want to eat it,” she said. “People have a harder time finding the organic proteins.” It’s those hard-to-find items that drive many people to the markets to shop. Jenefer Richards has carved out a niche growing exotic vegetables at her home in Calhoun County and selling them under the name Jenefer’s Garden. A native of the Philippines, Richards is particularly known for her Asian vegetables, such as giant radishes and purple Okinawan sweet potatoes. “Customers are always telling me how beautiful everything looks and asking about the Okinawan sweet

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

PURE 7 STUDIOS

GULF COAST SALTWORKS

dots,” she said. “They want to know why they’re sick. They don’t want to have to take drugs. People are finding that food is our biggest way to really make us healthy, really make us fit. That’s what’s really driving this trend. People want to be healthy.” Members of the Emerald Coast Organic Food Co-Op pay $50 to join the co-op and then $50 every two weeks for a bin of produce that they pick up from the co-op room next to the café. It’s another way that people in the area can bring fresh, organic fruits and vegetables into their own kitchens. (Ever’man Cooperative Grocery in Pensacola, which has been open for 40 years, is also a co-op, meaning it is owned by the members.

Ready to go shopping? Here are some of the farmers markets in the area: CRESTVIEW FARMERS MARKET Year-round; Thursdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Spanish Trail Park at the corner of Industrial Drive and Stillwell Boulevard (850) 689-5850 MARI DARR~WELCH

WALTON COUNTY FARMERS MARKET (DeFuniak Springs) Year-round; Fridays, 1–5 p.m. North of Interstate 10 (Exit 85) on U.S. Highway 331 (850) 834-2084

MARI DARR~WELCH

OKALOOSA COUNTY FARMERS MARKET (Fort Walton Beach) April to September; Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 7 a.m.–1 p.m. East of Okaloosa County Fairgrounds on Lewis Turner Boulevard (850) 689-5850

potatoes,” Richards said. “They like them because (Clockwide from they’re healthier than regular sweet potatoes.” above) Tim Berger The products sold by Paul and Judy Ashman, rustles up lunch and who own Gulf Coast Saltworks, also appeal to Rhonda Bradford packages fresh those who are looking for something different to greens to be sold try at home. As one of only a handful of artisan at Cafe Organic; A local shopper salt makers in the United States, they make handsizes up an organic harvested sea salt from the waters of the Gulf of avocado at Seaside Mexico. They sell it in four flavors: white flake, Farmers Market; Gulf Coast Saltworks lime, pecan smoked and ghost pepper. sells a variety of “There’s this whole trend of shopping and supgourmet and flavored porting local because people want to deal with salts not found at regular grocers; Bins people who are in their community, they want to brimming with fresh support small businesses,” Judy Ashman said. “In organic produce lure shoppers hungry for a grocery store, that tomato can be waxy; maybe “clean” food. it was picked a month ago. People who know that know they will be getting something really fresh and tasty at a farmers market.” Paul Ashman, who is also a tenured professor at Gulf Coast State College, where he teaches culinary arts, said that the appeal of farmers markets is easy to understand. “It’s a neat thing to go to a farmers market and meet the people who make the food,” he said. “There’s something social about it that people really love. People are willing to pay a little more for really good, fresh food.” ec

RIVERWALK FARMERS MARKET (Milton) May to July; Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 7 a.m.–1 p.m. Intersection of Berryhill, Willing and Broad streets north of Riverwalk Park (850) 855-6420 NICEVILLE FARMERS MARKET Year-round; first Saturday of each month, 7 a.m.–2 p.m. 120 Partin Drive North (850) 729-2120 BAY COUNTY FARMERS MARKET (Panama City) March to August; Mondays and Saturdays, 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Fairgrounds at 2230 E. 15th St. GRAND LAGOON WATERFRONT MARKET (Panama City Beach) Year-round; Saturdays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.; Sundays, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Grand Lagoon Bridge at 5551 N. Lagoon Drive (850) 763-7359 ST. ANDREW’S WATERFRONT MARKET (Panama City Beach) March to December; Saturdays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. St. Andrews Marina at 3151 W. 10th St. (850) 769-2645 PALAFOX MARKET (Pensacola) Year-round; Saturdays, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Martin Luther King Plaza on Palafox Street between Chase and Wright streets (850) 434-5371 30A FARMERS MARKET (Rosemary Beach) Year-round; Sundays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.; Thursdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (Memorial Day to Labor Day) North Barrett Square/ Town Center (850) 499-4697 GRAND BOULEVARD FARMERS MARKET (Sandestin) Year-round; Saturdays, Memorial Day to Labor Day: Wednesdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach (850) 499-4697 SEASIDE FARMERS MARKET Memorial Day to Labor Day: Tuesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon Labor Day to Memorial Day: Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (850) 687-3494 WATERCOLOR COASTAL FARMERS MARKET Year-round; Sundays 9 a.m.–1 p.m.; Memorial Day to Labor Day: Thursdays, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Cerulean Park (850) 499-4697

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

COUNT ON

Quality

We Are Proud to Have Earned The Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certification in Heart Failure HealthSouth Emerald Coast Rehabilitation Hospital’s newest disease-specific care certification can make all the difference in how successful patients with heart failure are in returning home for an independent lifestyle. Our state-of-the-art technologies, personalized programs and experienced, specialized teams give patients a higher level of care for better outcomes. Choose a leader in advanced rehabilitative care. Choose HealthSouth Emerald Coast Rehabilitation Hospital.

A Higher Level of Care®

1847 Florida Avenue • Panama City, FL 32405 • 850 914-8600 healthsouthpanamacity.com

The Joint Commission Advanced Disease-Specific Care Certification in Inpatient Diabetes and DiseaseSpecific Care Certification in Heart Failure, Hip Fracture Rehabilitation and Stroke Rehabilitation

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SPEC IA L A DVE RT ISI NG SEC T ION

MEDICAL PROFILES WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN THE WORLD TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY?

If you say good health, you are not alone.

As the Baby Boomer generation ages and lives longer, wellness has become even more of a top priority to families all across our nation. EC Magazine wants to play a part in taking care of you, too. We created this special section to spotlight many of the Emerald Coast’s leading health care providers. From the latest trends in dentistry to rehabilitative long-term care, these compassionate medical professionals are here for you. We offer up profiles that give you insight into their specialized skills, new technologies — even their personal business philosophies. Who says you have to go it alone? These attentive local health care experts are ready to take good care of you.

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Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics is a thriving practice on the Emerald Coast that emphasizes the importance of making each customer feel comfortable. Dr. Baker feels that having open lines of communication is crucial in order to provide outstanding customer service. They offer routine dental services such as white fillings, crowns, bridges, cosmetic veneers and whitening, as well as more complex treatments involving oral surgery and implant placement utilizing a state-of-the-art i-CAT 3D cone beam CT. Orthodontic services include Invisalign as well as traditional braces, all while using the latest technologies such as the iTero digital Scanner. A unique offering is sleep medicine, which includes treatments for nighttime snoring and sleep apnea.

Dr. Jason Baker

MEDICAL PROFILES

Dr. Baker has a passion for dentistry and a heart for his patients. “I believe our success derives not only from the passion I have for what I do, but the environment in the office. We strive to maintain a warm, comforting environment so that our patients know their health and comfort come first. This spring, we are moving to our new office designed especially to enable us to provide the highest quality of care under one roof so that our patients do not need to go elsewhere to receive the treatment they need,” he said. His greatest joy comes from being able to make a difference: helping others be able to chew certain foods for the first time or be rid of pain and watching patients smile confidently for the first time.

MATT BURKE

Dr. Baker made the choice to pursue dentistry because he viewed it as the perfect marriage between medicine and creative expression. He attended Louisiana State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree, and continued on to receive his degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Health Science Center. In 2006 he moved to the Emerald Coast, and by 2011 he had opened Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics.

Dr. Christina Higgins-Duplechain Due to her love of art and science, Dr. Higgins-Duplechain gravitated towards dentistry. She also attended Louisiana State University to receive her Bachelor of Science. She went on to obtain her D.D.S. at Louisiana State University School of Dentistry. She has been practicing dentistry for almost 10 years and has been with Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics since July. She lives by the rule of treating patients like they are a member of her own family and making sure their health and comfort come first. Her ultimate goal is to have happy, healthy patients who leave smiling. “The best part of being a dentist is when a patient grins from ear to ear and hugs me. Creating a healthy, beautiful smile can bring lifechanging results,” she said.

CONTACT: 77 South Shore Drive, Miramar Beach | (850) 650-2070 | miramarbeachdental.com

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KANSAS PITTS PHOTOGRAPHY

MEDICAL PROFILES

The Spine Institute on the Emerald Coast Tell us about your practice. Our experienced, board-certified medical professionals provide comprehensive, patient-centered care for virtually all spinal disorders. Our compassionate care includes the most current, clinically proven solutions for all conditions affecting the adolescent and adult spine. Conditions treated include acute and chronic low back and neck pain, radiculopathy, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, tumors, scoliosis, infections and spinal trauma. What is your goal? Our goal is to serve the community by helping to restore and maintain optimal health and quality of life. We are humbled and proud to have become the primary spine care and complex surgical providers on the Emerald Coast since 2012.

Kornelis Poelstra M.D. Ph.D. is a recognized

world leader in the diagnosis and treatment of complex spinal diseases. He specializes in robotic-assisted, minimally invasive spine surgery and complex traditional spinal deformity correction. Dr. Poelstra lectures and trains surgeons worldwide on these topics. He recently became the first surgeon in the world to use robotic spine surgery for lateral spinal deformity reconstruction.

Lori Poelstra M.D. is currently the director of The Spine Institute and First Assist Surgeon. She is dual board certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine. Dr. Poelstra enjoys alleviating patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pain by providing interventional diagnostic and therapeutic pain procedures and injections. Charles Wingo M.D. came to us 18 months ago from

Tallahassee where he had taken care of the neck and back problems of FSU Seminole athletes for 20 years. He has a specific interest in interventional pain injections, minimally invasive spine surgery and artificial disc replacements.

John Britt M.D. joined us in January from Illinois. He was previously Lieutenant Commander at the U.S. Naval Medical Center in San Diego and the U.S. Naval Hospital in Naples, Italy. He specializes in cervical and complex lumbar spine surgery and is a skilled scoliosis surgeon. Pritesh Patel M.D. is board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. He joins us now from Panama City, Florida, and has a special interest in acute and chronic musculo-skeletal pain medicine, headache, fibromyalgia, concussions/traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury. Jon Needler PA-C and Rachel Samuelson PA-C work closely with our physicians and are highly skilled in diagnosis and treatment of even the most complex spinal pathologies.

CONTACT: (850) 460-2350 | EmeraldCoastSpine.com | Locations in Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Crestview

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MEDICAL PROFILES

Dr. Mark Giovanini NeuroMicroSpine

Good doctors will tell you they put the needs of their patients first and foremost, but not every doctor’s track record will prove that. Dr. Mark Giovanini, a boardcertified neurosurgeon with NeuroMicroSpine, firmly believes in putting the medical needs of his patients first in his evaluations and diagnosis. His focus is on minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS) and wellness medicine. He is an independent practitioner who delivers consistent and definitive diagnoses and treatments for spinal problems. With his new facility in Destin and more medical projects in the works, his success with patients — by assessing their problems and properly treating them — is evident. Dr. Giovanini’s goal is to pursue the best options for treating your symptoms and assuring your comfort in his practice. He will not perform a surgery just because of an MRI finding. His focus is to treat the patient as a whole and design the most efficient treatment program for the specific problem. “I will evaluate everybody with a spine problem, but not everyone will be best suited for MIS. Some folks actually need a traditional open procedure. In some cases I will not be able to perform the large open procedures,” he says. In those cases, Dr. Giovanini has developed

relationships in the Southeast and regionally that he can confidently send patients in the right direction to solve their problem. “I do all I can to make sure a patient receives the proper treatment,” he says. Dr. Giovanini is a premier minimally invasive spine surgeon for treatment of simple and complex spinal problems. These MIS procedures are focused on minimal tissue disruption to allow for faster healing and quicker recovery. In experienced hands, these procedures have fewer complications and intra operative blood loss. He first brought MIS to the Gulf Coast and The Andrews Institute ambulatory surgery center in 2005 in Pensacola where he still practices. Since then he has performed thousands of these procedures at many other facilities in the region and stays abreast of the changing technology by being a clinical instructor for MIS surgery nationally. Dr. Giovanini has developed relationships with spine specialists around the country that he can readily send patients for tough problems he can't solve. The newly opened Destin office focuses not only on MIS consultations but also wellness medicine. iLifestyle Destin is a new company formed by Dr. Giovanini that provides hormone replacement therapy, nutrition,

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physical training and lifestyle modification. iPerformance Center is an executive physical therapy department created and driven by Scott Rusin MPT, CSCS. Rusin focuses on physical therapy for musculoskeletal injuries. He also evaluates and treats elite athletes to better their performance through advanced biomechanical analysis and treatment. Both centers apply to NeuroMicroSpine in two ways: Promoting a healthy lifestyle to prevent surgery and maximizing post-surgical health. While Giovanini specializes in spine care, his interests have always been in overall health and wellness, including hormone replacement, healthy living, nutrition, anti-aging medicine and so much more. This all-encompassing passion for human health and fitness stems from his past as a competitive bodybuilder. His fascination with the human body led him to a position as an assistant strength coach at the University of Oregon. Additionally, he earned his undergraduate degree in biochemistry from Oregon and then went on to receive his medical degree at Oregon Health Sciences University.

MEDICAL PROFILES

He has since studied under renowned neurosurgeons Dr. Albert Rhoten, Dr. Arthur Day and Dr. Richard Fessler. During his neurosurgical residency at the University of Florida he developed treatment protocols for spinal cord injury, which resulted in the first spinal cord transplant in humans. He has published many articles on neural transplantation and methodology. With 13 years of private practice and these accomplishments under his belt, it’s apparent why he has became one of the leading neurosurgeons in MIS spine procedures and has joined forces with other neuro and orthopedic surgeons around the country to teach MIS spine surgery.

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On a personal note, Dr. Giovanini has developed a custom jewelry line — GioGemz. He designs and creates custom jewelry with unique forms and lines. In his spare time he enjoys paddle-boarding, fishing, guitar and is a devoted father to three sons.

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MEDICAL PROFILES

It is apparent Dr. Giovanini is a man who follows through with his passions by constantly evolving his craft. It was his passion that led him to branch out to Destin, which he felt needed the customized services that he offers. He sees the human body, health and even surgery as an art and says, “I emphasize artistically, customdesigned surgery that focuses specifically on your problem.” When surgery is not an option, Rusin with iPerformance Center offers customized treatments as well. iLifestyle carries the same notion with customized personal health care. Because we are not an institution or large center, we can create these customized concierge services. Looking toward the future, Dr. Giovanini is in the process of expanding his practice internationally to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. In all that he pursues, his No. 1 goal is to promote a healthy body and soul. “It’s all about finding the best solutions for my patients, whether it be through a life-changing surgery or simple adjustments in health and lifestyle,” he says.

CONTACT: NeuroMicroSpine.com | Destin & Gulf Breeze (850) 934-7545 | Mark Giovanini, M.D. iPerformancecenter.com | Destin | (850) 460-2024 Scott Rusin MPT CSCS

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Stubbs Orthodontics Casi B. Stubbs D.M.D., P.A., Orthodontist

What is your educational background? I received my bachelor's degree in Chemical Science at Florida State University. Soon after, I relocated to Gainesville, Florida, where I completed the four-year doctorate program in dental medicine at the University of Florida. Following dental school, I began my residency attending Nova Southeastern University where I completed and received my orthodontic certification and acceptance into the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist? Dentists have a broad medical education that deals with the teeth, gums, nerves and jaws, while an orthodontist is a specialist in dentistry that primarily focuses on correcting bites, occlusion and the straightness of teeth. In addition to becoming a licensed dentist, orthodontists are required to complete an additional two to three years of specialty education; similar to the training a surgeon completes following medical school.

What questions should people ask their doctor prior to committing to orthodontic treatment? Ask if the treating doctor is a member of

After living in multiple cities in Florida during your 11 years of education, why did you decide on the Emerald Coast for your practice location? I am from the Panhandle. I grew up in Defuniak Springs, Florida, and I have always known that when I was finished with school, I would return home to the Panhandle. The families in this area are like no other, and I consider it a true blessing that I am able to serve such an amazing community. You have recently relocated to a new office. Is that because you needed more space? Exactly! My original office was approximately half the size of my existing office in Bluewater Bay. After two years of practice, it was obvious to my husband, Zack, and I that a bigger, more technologically advanced office would be necessary. Our new office has the muchneeded space to accommodate not only patients, but also our patients' families. I have also recently purchased a new digital X-ray machine to ensure the least amount of radiation for my patients, as well as the ITero digital scanner for our Invisalign patients. In addition to the new office, I have also expanded to the Destin area for the convenience of our South Walton and Destin patients. Tell us about your family. Zack, my husband of 13 years, manages the orthodontic practice as well as his business, Niceville Storage. We have two beautiful daughters, Elle (9) and Brycelyn Belle (5), who are the joy of our lives. Working together, Zack and I have really learned to appreciate and balance both family and work.

CONTACT: 4633 E. Highway 20, Niceville | 4484 Legendary Drive, Suite B, Destin (850) 678-8338 | info@stubbsortho.com | stubbsortho.com

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MEDICAL PROFILES

What is the difference between orthodontic treatment with Invisalign and standard metal or ceramic braces? Invisalign is a great orthodontic option for patients who only need dental alignment and are no longer growing. Orthodontic treatment, with standard orthodontic braces, is usually more ideal for adolescents. It is important that orthodontists, who have specialized training in growth and development, treat growing adolescents. Orthodontists thoroughly understand the biomechanics needed to properly treat alignment with braces, as well as skeletal discrepancies (bite correction).

the American Association of Orthodontists. If your doctor is a member of the AAO, you can be assured that you are receiving orthodontic treatment from a doctor who is qualified and has graduated from an accredited orthodontic program.

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Sandestin Executive Health and Wellness Center

What services are provided? Primary care, urgent care, pediatrics, internal medicine, physical therapy, radiology services, laboratory services, retail and compounding pharmacy, physicals, workmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s compensation, pre-employment screenings, nutritional counseling, weight management and pharmacy deliveries to our local area. We also have an online HIPPA Compliant Patient Portal for patients to access their medical records wherever they are. Our pharmacy has a unique feature, Flavor RX, which allows customers to choose the flavors of their medicines.

Retail & Compounding Pharmacy

How long have you been in practice and whom do you serve? We have been providing service to our local community and visitors for one year.

MEDICAL PROFILES

Describe your business practice. Sandestin Executive Health & Wellness Center is about personalized health care service. It was developed to emphasize quality of health care services, not quantity. We give the personalized touch that our patients deserve. With the changes in health care over time, so many health care facilities are trying to see as many patients as possible in one day. The difference in our facility is that we ensure we are providing our patients with quality health care, and we take care of all their needs while they are in the office. We consider it to be old-time medicine with new technology. While we enjoy having time to build relationships with our patients, we also make sure we meet their expectations of being able to get them in for same-day or next-day appointments. How has your business expanded? We have only been open a year and with the tremendous growth that we have seen from it, we will be opening an Ambulatory Surgery Center in the next year. We also now accept all major insurance. How do you measure success? By providing the best quality care to our patients and their families. CONTACT: 400 Audubon Drive | (850) 267-6767 | sehwc.com

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MEDICAL PROFILES

Coastal Skin Surgery and Dermatology Tell us about your practice. We are a premier dermatology practice on Florida’s Emerald Coast devoted to providing comprehensive and advanced surgical, medical and cosmetic treatments for patients of all ages. We offer a broad variety of state-of-the-art procedures to maximize your skin’s health, keeping it healthy and looking its best.

body to relax and escape from the stresses of everyday life. Services include: massage therapy, facials and peels, makeup application, reflexology and waxing services. The state-of-theart spa services, customized techniques and medical-grade products will leave you feeling and looking refreshed and rejuvenated. Meritage is located in the upstairs of Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology’s Miramar Beach location.

What services do you provide your patients? Our practice offers Mohs micrographic surgery performed by Dr. David C. Adams, a fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery — a qualification held by less than eight percent of all dermatologists nationwide. From Tallahassee to Pensacola, Dr. Adams is one of only two fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons serving the entire Emerald Coast. Along with Mohs Micrographic surgery, our practice offers patients the most advanced surgical, medical and cosmetic dermatology services in the Gulf Coast area.

Providers (from left to right): Katherine James-Eberly, PA-C Brittain F. Kulow, MD, FAAD Danielle Horton, PA-C Elizabeth A. Clark, MD, FAAD

David C. Adams, MD, FAAD, FACMS Nicholas G. Papajohn, MD, FAAD Larry Weidell, PA-C Layne M. Fielder, MD, FAAD

What is the secret to your success? Quality. Having a team of highly trained individuals with a passion to deliver the best quality care has contributed to our success. We promote healthy skin care with compassion and respect and offer personalized treatments to each patient.

Meritage Spa

Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology recently opened a medical spa, Meritage, in September 2014. Meritage is a premier medical spa on the Emerald Coast that elegantly blends the best of beauty and science. The spa offers a peaceful and soothing environment that will allow your mind and CONTACT: 12469 US Hwy 98 W., Miramar Beach | (850) 654-3376 | coastalskinsurgery.com 930 Mar Walt Dr., Suite C, Fort Walton Beach | (850) 314-7546 | 4400 Hwy 20 E., Suite 410, Niceville | (850) 897-4900

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The Eye Center of North Florida The Eye Center of North Florida was formed in 1999 following the merger of two of the most trusted long-term eye care practices in the Florida Panhandle: Newberry Eye Clinic and Gulf Coast Eye Clinic. Since then, The Eye Center of North Florida has grown and now has four offices, over 100 employees and an AAAHC accredited in-house ambulatory surgery center.

MEDICAL PROFILES

This surgery center is the largest “single specialty” surgery center in our region and hosts a staff of “eye care only” surgical nurses. The Eye Center of North Florida offers a full service eye care practice covering all areas of optometry, ophthalmology and low vision rehabilitation. Each location has a complete optical shop and contact lens department in addition to the optometry and ophthalmology clinics. Our contact lens department is like no other in the area. Dr. Edinger, our low vision specialist, is the Southeast’s only physician able to put hard-to-fit contact lens wearers in the EyePrint Pro custom fitting contacts.

Run by nine physicians, the practice allows for technology growth unlike most eye care practices. Eye Center surgeons Bret Fisher and Paul Garland were the first in Florida, and remain the only in the area, to perform LenSx Laser Cataract Surgery. This laser technology is complemented by the surgery center’s entire Alcon Cataract Suite technology, Lifestyle Lens implants and Drop-less cataract surgery to ensure patients receive the most advanced state-of-the-art cataract surgery available. The Eye Center of North Florida has a proven reputation for serving the Emerald Coast area with the highest standards of eye care.

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MEDICAL PROFILES

Dr. John C. Dali

White-Wilson Medical Center What services do you provide? My practice is a full service general and vascular surgery practice, providing the following: • • • • • • • • • • •

Treatment of gallbladder disease, including single port robotic gallbladder surgery Treatment of all types of hernias Skin cancer removal and procedures Surgeries involving the colon Arterial diseases of the legs and circulation problems with the legs, including varicose veins Laparoscopic appendectomy Dialysis access procedures Vascular access procedures for cancer patients Skin lesions In-office treatment of varicose veins, including scleratherapy of spider veins Complex wound care

Who are your clients? My practice treats anyone and everyone in need of surgical care. General surgery and vascular surgery are large fields of medicine, and I perform a myriad of different surgical procedures. If you have a question regarding a specific procedure, please call our office and we will be happy to let you know if this is an area we have expertise in. If it isn’t, we can point you in the right direction. How long have you been working in your profession? 14 years How long have you been in practice on the Emerald Coast? 14 years Business and education background Doctor of Medicine, New York Medical College, Bachelor of Science, Tufts University Awards, honors, recognitions I was recently selected as Honorary Commander of the 33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, which was a huge honor. Additionally, I was the chief of the Department of Surgery at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, 2005–2011, and the assistant trauma director at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, 2008–2011.

How, when and why did you get into this profession? I have always looked up to my father, who is also a general surgeon and served as chief of surgery at Eglin AFB before opening his private practice on the Emerald Coast. I followed in his footsteps and had the opportunity to work in private practice with him for six years before joining White-Wilson Medical Center. How would you describe your practice philosophy? My philosophy is simple — to treat patients like I would treat a family member. I recognize that surgery is a sensitive matter, and I always treat my patients how I would want my family members to be treated. What is the “secret” of your professional success? Consistently providing quality care and staying abreast of current technology and techniques, including minimally invasive procedures and advanced vascular therapies. How do you measure success in your business or profession? I measure my success by the improvements I can make in my patients’ lives. That is why I practice medicine. Describe any new practices, technologies or systems in your profession that you provide. We have added new therapies, including single site robotic surgeries that provide a nearly scarless removal of the gallbladder, and in-office therapies to treat varicose veins. Family? My wife Kellee and I have been married nine years. We have two children, an 8-year-old daughter and 7-year-old son. What are your hobbies, outside interests and community involvements? I enjoy cooking, spending time with family and participating in Cub Scouts with my son.

CONTACT: 999 Mar Walt Drive, Fort Walton Beach | (850) 863-8269 | white-wilson.com

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Emerald Coast Functional Family Medicine Peter Kozlowski, M.D.

MEDICAL PROFILES

Tell us about your background and what made you want to pursue this career. I had an interest in medicine because my parents are physicians. I was further pushed in that direction after my closest friend passed away during our senior year of college. She was diagnosed with lupus and died three months later. I was introduced to functional medicine during my intern year of family medicine residency. We had a doctor who took an “alternative” approach to his patients. I sat and talked to him in the call room one Saturday afternoon, and my outlook on medicine changed forever. Expanding my education, I was invited to be part of the medical consult team at the Chopra Center in Carlsbad. My pursuit in this career has continued because of the results that are produced. There is no greater joy than helping others. Who is functional family medicine for? It’s for everyone, whether you have been battling a chronic disease or are considered to be in good health but want to optimize your well-being. We use the latest medical research to develop personalized care for each patient based on his or her unique environment, lifestyle and genes. While I do believe in using conventional pharmaceuticals when

indicated, I disagree with using pills as a solution to cover up symptoms without identifying the underlying problem. By identifying and treating underlying causes such as toxins, allergens, infections, nutrition and lifestyle, we embark with our patient on a journey back to health. What services do you offer? Food sensitivity testing, functional medicine consults, healthy aging, hormone replacement therapy, medical detox, nutrition, prenatal care, primary care, pediatrics, second opinions and specialized testing. What is the goal of your practice? Our goal is to be a trusted place where the community can come for health and education. I want to build long-lasting relationships with the local community and a reputation for the Emerald Coast as a health-conscious and forwardthinking destination. What is your favorite part of your job? Connection. Connecting with my patients, their families and their lives. Seeing patients walk out of the office informed and with the tools to take their health back into their own hands.

CONTACT: 2010 Lewis Turner Blvd., Fort Walton Beach | (850) 830-7517 | dockoz.com | contact@ dockoz.com

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MEDICAL PROFILES

Emerald Coast Compounding Pharmacy Regina K. Jaquess Tell us about your background. I received my doctorate in pharmacy from the University of Louisiana at Monore in 2009. I have received post-graduate training in pharmaceutical compounding, which is my passion. I am a member of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) and a member of Professional Compounding Center of America (PCCA). What services does your company offer? At Emerald Coast Compounding Pharmacy (ECCP) we formulate your prescriptions to meet your individual needs. Our facility addresses a range of medical concerns including: anti-aging, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, dental, dermatology, gastroenterology, infertility, pain management, pediatric, podiatry, sports medicine and veterinary. What is your business philosophy? When it comes to patient health care, I believe there should be a connection between patient, physician and pharmacist. At ECCP we strive to develop a comprehensive plan to improve each patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall health and quality of life. What about your interests outside of work? I am currently a USA Water Ski team member, and I am a seven-time World Champion, holding World Records in both Slalom and Overall.

CONTACT: 1719 S Co. Hwy. 393 | Santa Rosa Beach (850) 622-5800 | ECCPharmacy.com

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Voted the Best 2013 & Finest Lawyers for 2013–2014

Ward & Ketchersid P.a. Your Lawyers for Life

Litigation Real Estate Law Foreclosures Criminal Law Creditor Representation in Bankruptcy Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning & Probate Business Law Divorce · Family Law Commercial & Judgment Collection

Left to right: Jeremy T. Cranford, Arthur “Richard” Troell, III, Karen Powell Ward, William L. “Bill” Ketchersid, James “Seth” Galloway, David L. Powell

online at SuperLawyers.com 850-837-5507 · flaattorney.com Clary Cobb Building · 1241 Airport Road, Suite H · Destin, FL 32541 Admitted to practice in all Florida courts and the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Florida, U.S. Tax Court and U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Member of Attorneys Title Fund Services LLC. Authorized Agent Old Republic National Title Insurance Company.

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The

Northwest Florida Bride’s Guide to Everything

WAYS TO WOW YOUR GUESTS

From Coast to City to Country, the top TRENDS IN venues, flowers, photogs, FOOD, GOWNS, and more!

Come AND Get It, Y’all! Infusing your menu with some Southern hospitality

True Colors: Gowns Are Going Way Off White

essential rules from Etiquette Experts

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

creatively

4 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

catering

lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebrations 228 South AdAmS Street AndrewSdowntown.com/cAtering tdAniel@AndrewSdowntown.com 850.644.2767 | 850.645.2675 NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

What started with a backyard grill and great determination has grown to become “Tallahassee’s Best” premier caterer. Klassic Katering prides itself on turning even the simplest events into the most memorable. With our flair for creativity and perfection, we engage with each client on a personal level to assure their vision is brought to life. By designing all custom menus, it ensures that we can not only meet but exceed your expectations in terms of quality, presentation, service and execution.

We look forward to turning your next event into a “Klassic” event.

6 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

elegant creative unique d istinctive

info@klassickatering.com | klassic-katering.com | 850.894.0423 | 850.509.5005 (mobile) NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

THIS IS

THATplace Where happily ever after begins. This is the place you envisioned even before you said yes. The place you imagined from your first thoughts of Prince Charming. The place where your dream wedding becomes your most beautiful memory. The place that pampers you and your guests with attention and options, and ensures that every detail is perfect – just as it should be.

4000 Sandestin Blvd. South | Destin, FL 32550 | +1 877 705 6641 | +1 850 267 9600 info@HiltonSandestinBeach.com • HiltonSandestinBeach.com • #HiltonSandestin #ThatPlace

8 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

contents

issue 2

coastal weddings

16 DIY: The Coastal Crown 19 ResortQuest 24 Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau 26 Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa 28 Sunquest Cruises

PURE 7 STUDIOS

ALENA BAKUTIS PHOTOGRAPHY

city weddings

32 34 36 40

Way Off White FSU Alumni Center Tallahassee Downtown Four Points by Sheraton

country weddings

44 Menu Inspiration: The Soul of the South 46 S hiloh Farm Chapel & Barn

49 Mari Darr~Welch

making it happen

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS

On the Cover

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FROM COAST TO CITY TO COUNTRY

WAYS TO WOW YOUR GUESTS

FROM COAST TO CITY TO COUNTRY, THE TOP TRENDS IN VENUES, FLOWERS, PHOTOGS, FOOD, GOWNS, AND MORE!

d emerald green water as your backdrop? ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation mes to luxurious Gulf-front condos, we provide beautiful accommodations, have partnerships with experienced wedding planners to make planning your

True Colors: Gowns Are Going Way Off White

wedding of your dreams on our Emerald Coast!

rmation!

Northwest Florida Weddings $5.95 Best Property Management Company

Best Vacation Rental Firm

stered trademarks and/or service

#FollowUsToTheBeach 2013 & 2014

2015

2009 - 2014

For our 2015 cover image, we made an open call to all of our talented contributors and were flooded by absolutely gorgeous imagery from across the region. In the end, this black and white shot from Black and Hue Photography (one of our most trusted resources) simply couldn’t be out-done. Dripping with romance, oldHollywood glamour and genuine happiness, it was a picture-perfect match for what Northwest Florida Weddings & Honeymoon Destinations has to offer. Fun 10 fact? You might recognize our cover groom, Travis Clark, as the lead singer from the chart-topping band We The Kings and his stunning bride, Jenny, as one of Hollywood’s favorite up-and-comers.

The

Northwest Florida Bride’s Guide to Everything

COME AND GET IT, Y’ALL! Infusing your menu with some Southern hospitality

50 Top Tips to Wedded Bliss 52 Vocelles 54 Klassic Katering 56 John Gandy Events 60 Bijoux 62 Dream Gowns 64 Fisher’s Flowers 66 A ndrew’s Catering/ Andrew’s 228 82 Advertiser Index

essential rules from Etiquette Experts

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

from the editor

weddings

NORTHWEST FLORIDA

And Honeymoon Destinations

President/Publisher

From Ours to Yours, With Love First things first — Congratulations! This is such an exciting time in your life, and I’m thrilled to be ringing in this fresh season of wedding planning with you. Rowland Publishing’s headquarters in Tallahassee has seen a lot of engagements this past year — myself included! It’s been quite the whirlwind, with plenty of giddy moments around the office coffee maker. Since so many of us are embarking on this journey simultaneously, I try to make a point of checking in on the others’ statuses every once in awhile — to show a little support and maybe gain some inspiration along the way. It’s so much fun to see my colleagues progress in their own unique wedding planning process, and I love having an extended circle of gal pals to Sean Hughes proposed to me this past November during my birthday trip to Charleston, South Carolina. It didn’t go off gush to. without a hitch, but it was absolutely perfect for us. This shot Rebecca, the lead designer for this was taken seconds after by a kind passerby. Planning on taking beautiful publication and a thoughtful our sweet time, we’ve set our date for February 2016. bride-to-be herself, refers to those first few magical, post-proposal weeks as “the bubble.” If you’re further along in your engagement, you’ll know exactly what she’s talking about. It’s the tearful phone calls, fiddling with your new accessory and blushing (even if it’s ever so slightly) at the word “fiancé.” Those initial weeks are kind of like being in a dream. Pinning down actual dates and centerpieces can feel like a world away. Bask in it, sister. Because about two months in, when those champagne toasts flow just a tad slower and the heart-shaped dust starts to settle, your world is bound to get hectic. Just know, Northwest Florida Weddings & Honeymoon Destinations is here for you every step of the way. From gorgeous venues to extraordinarily talented planners and true gourmets, we are constantly in awe of the dedicated and creative trendsetters who call this region home. Scattered throughout the coast, city and country, these individuals know the ins-and-outs of wedding planning — and do it with style. Flipping through the magazine, you’ll notice all our showcase and Making it Happen pages feature top-tier photography. For our second issue, once again we were fortunate enough to team up with the best lenses in the South to bring you these incredible shots. Our contributors are highlighted on pages 12–13, with full contact information provided in the index on page 82. The 2015 issue features an increase in our editorial content, with stories on food, fashion and so much more. We’ve also expanded our “Making it Happen” section to highlight even more outstanding industry professionals. We know you’ll find just what you’re looking for in these 84 pages of wedding-planning gospel. I’d wish you luck, but with Northwest Florida Weddings & Honeymoon Destinations in hand you won’t be needing it much. Cheers to you and yours. Know that I’m wishing you all the love and happiness in the world — now and always. Yours,

Chay D. Baxley, Editor

10 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Brian E. Rowland

EDITORIAL Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Editor Chay D. Baxley Contributing Writers Shelby Bouck, Leanne Castro Proofreader Melinda Lanigan CREATIVE Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Production Manager/ Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Publication Designers Shruti Shah, Rebecca Sumerall Advertising Designers Jillian Fry, Amanda Hartsfield SALES AND MARKETING Director of Sales and Marketing Mckenzie Burleigh Director of New Business Daniel Parisi Advertising Services Coordinator Lisa Sostre Account Executives Drew Gregg Westling, Darla Harrison Tim Hughes, Lori Magee, Tracy Mulligan Rhonda Lynn Murray, Linda Powell Paula Sconiers, Chuck Simpson Sales and Marketing Assistant Christie Green Special Projects Events and Special Projects Coordinator Leigha Inman OPERATIONS Accounting Specialists Josh Faulds, Tabby Hamilton WEB Social Media/ Systems Management Specialist Carlin Trammel Northwest Florida Weddings and Honeymoon Destinations Magazine is published annually by Rowland Publishing, Inc. 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. 850/878-0554. Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Copyright March 2015 Northwest Florida Weddings and Honeymoon Destinations Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Partners of Visit Tallahassee and Member, Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and Florida Magazine Association.

Picture your

FOREVER

THE PERFECT PLACE TO SAY I DO FROM THE BEACH TO THE BAY Love and cherish every moment of your wedding, from romantic white sand beaches to venues overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay. Sandestin offers the perfect location for an unforgettable wedding at the #1 Resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast.

The #1 Resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast 866.748.7863 • www.Sandestin.com/flwed Photo Credit: Amanda Suanne Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

contributing photographers capturing raw emotion in dynamic, powerful images. Specializing in bridal and model portfolios, she combines her love for people, beauty and fashion into a very personal and distinct style.

Alena BAkUtis Photography

Hi. I’m a professional wedding photographer and member of Professional Photographers of America, PPA, serving the Florida Panhandle. My passion is to capture the most important moments of your life. I would love to shoot your love story with the person of your dreams, sharing your magical first kiss and capturing the intimacy of the first dance at the wedding!

Amy Little Photography

Hello lovelies! Welcome to the beautiful world of wedding planning. I’m Amy, destination wedding photographer and cake addict. I travel the world documenting the unions of fabulously fun clients who adore art and travel. I’m also a plant killer, but that’s only because I’m never home.

of real-life, even ordinary, moments. She prefers candid shots over posed and values authenticity of both moments and people. She currently lives in Tallahassee with her wonderful husband, Josh.

Amy Susi Photography

Amy Susi specializes in family portraits that reveal clients’ joy, beauty and honesty of the moment. She holds a BFA in painting and graphic design. Susi creates breathtaking art worthy of display in the most stunning of homes by capturing the emotions and emotional connections that define our lives. Her work has appeared in multiple publications, including Vogue London.

Callie Gardiner Photography

“Amazing photos.” “Adapted to our style.” “Very calming.” “Our family LOVED her.” “Photo booth was a BLAST.” These are client quotes from renowned Florida Panhandle photographer Callie Gardiner.

Erin Nicole Photography

I grew up with a fascination of photography and the story an image can tell. Eventually, I got my own camera and began capturing my own story. After college, I married the love of my life and started my business. Now, having seven years of shooting weddings under my belt, all I can think is “thank you.”

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HELLo MISS LOVELY

I’m Autumn, a wedding and portrait photographer in Northwest Florida. I am not your ordinary wedding photographer; my concept of shooting is about capturing the relationship between two people … the laughter, the tears, the emotions. I believe that even closed eyes can speak to the soul, which is why I focus on creating stunning imagery that moves you.

BLACK & HUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Bryan and Kelly Honhart are a husband and wife wedding photography team that launched in 2011 and quickly attracted national attention. With a modern photojournalistic approach, Bryan tries to pull creativity from his past as a professional touring musician. Incorporating a laid-back approach, their brides and grooms always become their great friends by the end of the wedding day.

Elizabeth Birdwell Photography

Elizabeth Birdwell specializes in family, child and wedding photography. Her motto is simple: Forget your matching white shirts and jeans, studio lights and stiff poses! When you’re in front of my camera, we will laugh together, have an adventure and document your memorable moments. My images will capture genuine and heartfelt moments that represent the best part of you.

Footstone Photography

While Paul and Kristin Privette have the honor of traveling all over the country to photograph weddings, the Footstone studio is based in North Central Florida. Their individual styles combine to create a story of your wedding day that goes beyond traditional and becomes pure artwork.

Amy Riley Photography

Hi, I’m Amy. I am passionate about chasing light and documenting amazing love stories. I love everything about shooting weddings, and my goal is to give my clients something they will enjoy for many years to come. I call the beautiful Emerald Coast home along with my husband, John, and our doodle, Parker.

offers wedding, family beach and glamour/ boudoir portraits as well as commercial photography. A unique combination of vintage flair with modern fashion makes these two stand out in a local market saturated with hundreds of photographers.

Brittnay Therese Photography

Brittnay Dawson, owner of Brittnay Therese Photography, is a young and ambitious photographer and makeup artist with a unique way of

J&J Weddings

This dazzling duo shares a passion for expansion and the talent to make it happen. Combining Jennifer Powell Photography and Jenna Reichert Photography to make j&j weddings proved that not only are they talented in capturing wondrous wedding moments, but that they were gifted with the power to bring life to the moments as well.

GWYNEMARK PHOTOGRAPHY Elizabeth Davis Photography

Award-winning photographer Elizabeth Davis describes her style as a celebration

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Gwyne and Mark are a husband and wife wedding and portrait photography team based in Santa Rosa Beach. With 14 years of professional experience, GwyneMark Photography

Jacqueline Ward Images With a background and education in the fine arts,

acclaimed photographer Jacqueline Ward captures the everyday moment. She resides in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, with her husband and three young children.

“blessing” that allows her to share special days with clients throughout the Southeast.

photography and art. “There is no better feeling than picking up my camera and capturing exactly what I see in my head. I love what I do and I can’t imagine doing anything else,” she says. “I try to only work with people who share the same love and vision as I do for their images.”

Leah Langley Photography Jan Ethridge Photography

Being a Florida Panhandle native, I have a little white beach sand and emerald green Gulf water in my veins. I never take for granted the breathtaking backdrop of these gorgeous beaches and moss-draped trees that result in the most spectacular wedding shots. My philosophy is to translate the joy and love of a wedding day into stunning photography.

From beautiful portraits to heartfelt candid moments, Leah Langley creatively photographs in a way that will be timeless and cherished for generations. Growing up in the Panhandle, she’s inspired by the natural beauty that only Florida offers. After graduating from FSU with two degrees in accounting and finance, Leah decided to fully pursue her photography career. With professionalism and creativity, Leah Langley’s fine art style has been locally and internationally published in fashion and wedding publications.

Kansas Pitts Photography

A lifelong resident of Northwest Florida, Kansas specializes in fresh, bold, chic photography. When not pursuing her addiction to photography, she loves to create, read and go to the beach with her husband and their four crazy kids.

Michael Allen offers his beautiful style of photography that strikes a cord in every viewer. Michael’s awardwinning photos have graced the pages of many wedding publications, so you can trust that he will make your wedding day look amazing. Michael’s second photographer and wife, Janice, is also an awardwinning hairstylist. This dynamic duo has traveled to photo shoots in Mexico, the Caribbean, Seaside and all across the South.

Mari darr~Welch

Mari is a fun-loving photographer who documents real emotions while creating stunning art from your candid, fleeting moments in a style she calls modern photojournalism. Her work has appeared in books and magazines around the world, and she is available for worldwide travel.

Kay Meyer Photography

With a passion for life and a talent for photography, Kay Meyer of Tallahassee creates collections of images that capture the story of life’s most significant moments. Her vocation, she says, is a

Michael Allen Photography

Mi Amore Foto

Shannon calls herself a simple girl with a HUGE love for

Pure 7 Studios

Pure 7 Studios specializes in nostalgic, sentimental wedding photography. Their work has been described as vintageinspired, joyful and timeless. Using a combination of film and digital cameras, their goal is to create images that will evoke an emotional reaction. They invest their spirit, creativity and skill into every wedding, desiring to give their clients images worthy of passing on to future generations.

Impeccable image quality, dramatic composition and magazine-quality shooting style are his hallmarks. Steve puts quality and a commitment to excellence into every subject and event.

Red Stone Photos

Alexis Rubenstein of Red Stone Photography currently lives and works on the Emerald Coast in Navarre, Florida. She photographs weddings and portraits and has seen her work published in many magazines, blogs, advertising campaigns and books. She loves to mentor new photographers and has been fortunate to photograph beautiful weddings all over the U.S., as well as in Japan, Thailand and Greece.

SONJA REVELLs PHOTOGRAPHY When I was 21 years old, I began working as a news photographer for a small daily paper, and over the years I developed my talent as a photojournalist, covering any type of assignment imaginable. As a photojournalist, I learned how to capture a story from start to end through photographs, without posing my subjects — a skill I use while photographing weddings.

Terri Smith Photography

Photographer Terri Smith graduated with two degrees from Florida State University’s College of Business. While pursuing these degrees, she also enrolled in photography classes to keep her sanity. After graduation, she went on to work for a software company but continued her love of capturing a great image. She realized photography was her calling and went full time shortly thereafter.

Woodland Fields Photography

Catherine Taylor’s inspirations come from so many different places. She blends photojournalism and portrait photography, calling it portrait-journalism. She chooses locations carefully, and during your portraits she strives to find romantic lighting and incredible backgrounds — never posing situations that are already magical.

Steve Corbett Photography

Steve Corbett is a Tallahassee event, portrait and commercial photographer who specializes in creative portraiture, dynamic lighting and a fun, relaxed attitude.

For contact information, please see page 82.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

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Private dining rooms and outdoor courtyard spaces accommodate anything from an intimate meal to an extravagant event. Our bar features an exclusive menu and drink specials. Looking for something even more unique? Our private wine room can be reserved for your next event. Flowers by Milk & Honey, decor detailed to perfection, and an award winning chef to create the perfect wedding destination. Bijoux Catering can accommodate private parties, weddings and corporate events off-site or at the restaurant. From hors d’oeuvres to buffets and plated dinners, we customize each event to your specific needs.

(850) 622-0760 · bijouxdestin.com 14 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

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Kansas Pitts Photography

The Coast is Calling.

Uniquely upscale while retaining every drop of authenticity, the eclectic ambiance of coastal Northwest Florida makes for a dream destination. NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS NORTHWEST & Honeymoon FLORIDADestinations WEDDINGS 2014 2015 15

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DIY:

The Coastal Crown Be coastal-chic on your wedding day in this beautiful beach-ready tiara By Chay D. Baxley // Photos by Matt Burke

It’s one of the most relaxing yet romantic things a couple can do: a simple stroll on the beach, hand-in-hand, plucking seashells from the sugary sand. No muss or fuss required. Just a day to remember. And though it’s a little nonsensical, in a way hanging on to those once-buried treasures keeps the memories of vacations-past alive. So you do, filling mason jar after mason jar, until the house starts to resemble a roadside shell shack. It’s quite the conundrum. But if you fancy yourself a DIY bridal maven, plan to put those beautiful mementos on center stage during your upcoming seaside soiree by creating your very own coastal-inspired crown. A swoon-worthy headdress, this piece is flawlessly nautical and totally authentic to the region without being over the top. Customizable to be ideal for flower girls, bridesmaids or the star of the show herself, this accessory can lend your beach goddess look a genuine air of natural glamour. Estimated to take no more than an hour of your day, for such a simple project this coastal crown is full of character and creative, local flair. A quick trip to any nearby arts and crafts store will get you started. After that, it’s nothin’ but clear skies, smooth sailing and seashell dreams. n

You’ll Need… •A n inexpensive dress-up tiara (easily found at dollar stores as well as arts and crafts supply shops) • Twine or rope in a neutral hue • A hot glue gun • Seashells of varying shapes and sizes • Store-bought accessories for added dimension • A good soundtrack and a glass of champagne (optional)

Model: Margaret Wallis, bride Hair & Makeup: Veronica Dunkelberger (facebook.com/cosmobyveronica) Venue: SouthWood House & Cottages, Tallahassee (southwoodgolf.com) NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

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Directions

Gather supplies. Arrange shells by shape and then by color, for easy accessibility during assembly.

Remove any feathers or fabric from your tiara and begin wrapping with choice color of twine or rope, periodically gluing in place with a hot glue gun. No need to get every nook and cranny — just the big stuff. The seashells will adhere better to the material than the smooth surface of your tiara.

Before you get started gluing, come up with an overall design for how you’d like the tiara to flow. Begin in the center of the crown, largest items first, and work your way out — securing each item with the hot glue gun.

Fill in extra space with smaller shells until your crown looks full and symmetrical. Ensure all shells have been securely fastened to the tiara. Then, it’s time to don your crown.

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Try incorporating storebought pieces for added glitz and glamour. You may also want to consider amping up your already existing seashell collection with hand-selected shells from the store for a more polished look.

ResortQuest gulf place

Celebrate life and love under twinkling cafĂŠ lighting on the Green at Gulf Place or by the sheen of a glowing sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Neighboring Destinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bustling shopping and attractions scene, Gulf Place is nestled within quiet and eclectic Santa Rosa Beach, known for its Southern charm and vibrant local flavors. This resort-style venue brims with unique amenities, a vast assortment of accommodations to suit nearly every budget and endless natural beauty. An ideal location for an unforgettable beach wedding, Gulf Place offers an abundance of gorgeous, natural backdrops to choose from for that big day. Photos by PURE 7 STUDIOS NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

ResortQuest

Callie Gardiner Photography

Tops'l

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Callie Gardiner Photography

Red Stone Photos

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ResortQuest TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort is a tranquil resort located just east of Destin, offering the peace of a location off the beaten path paired with the conveniences of city attractions just a few minutes away. Situated on 52 private acres, this full-service resort is bordered by beautiful white sand beaches and a nature preserve. Guests have the luxury of staying onsite in a variety of fully furnished condominiums and the pleasure of experiencing this unique region without ever stepping foot off of the property. A beach wedding is simpler — and sweeter — when you let the experts of this awardwinning resort venue take the reins. Photos by Callie Gardiner Photography, Red Stone Photos

Tops'l

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

ResortQuest Sundestin

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ResortQuest For the couple that likes to be a stone’s throw away from the area’s best shopping and restaurants, SunDestin’s breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and close proximity to all of downtown Destin’s activities are sure to impress. Here, attendees have limitless possibilities when it comes to leisurely exploration and onsite amenities, while the bridal party will experience the finest in ceremonial services. At SunDestin, it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable event. Photos

Sundestin

by Jan Ethridge Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Barefoot Beach Weddings

Dex Designs Photography

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Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau

One of the world’s most vibrant and enchanting settings, the Heart of Florida’s Emerald Coast encompasses Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island. Every year happy couples from across the globe recite their vows on the shores of this precious strip of coastline. Selecting the predestined romance of this dreamy region to become the backdrop for your event and with the experts at the Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau your guide, love will take center stage. So close and yet a world away, it’s as ideal a spot to say, “I do,” as it is to whisper, “Remember when we did.” Photos by Barefoot Beach Weddings, DEX Designs Photography

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Dex Designs Photography

Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

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Set against sugar-white beaches, emerald-green waters and breathtaking vistas sits Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. In addition to its pristine beaches, this venue features three spacious, indoor ballrooms along with multiple smaller rooms and three perfectly situated sundecks right on the Gulf of Mexico. Possibilities are endless as receptions, ceremonies, private meals or farewell brunches of all shapes and sizes will find an ideal setting within the many venues offered by the hotel. Whether your vision calls for a true destination experience or a more traditional approach, there is no desire too intimate, no vision too impressive for Hilton Sandestin. Photos by Michael Allen Photography

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

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Sunquest Cruises

After crossing the threshold of SunQuest Cruise’s award-winning, 125-foot SOLARIS, it’s easy to see that this Destinbased yacht was designed with weddings in mind. An experience that starts at the moment of booking, couples work closely with the yachtvs in-house wedding planner throughout the entire process. Interested? Then prepare for incredible menus featuring the Gulf Coast’s freshest ingredients, a background of natural nautical beauty and an air of extraordinary client service. On board the SOLARIS, there’s a package ready to accommodate nearly every budget. Photos by Amy Susi Photography

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Sunquest Cruises

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S AY I D O D O W N T O W N . C O M 30 2015

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Kay Meyer Photography

A City Worth Celebrating.

A gorgeous, contemporary blend of minimalism and Southern hospitality, the city vista is polished, cultured and vivacious. NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Jacqueline Ward Images

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Way Off White More modern brides are adding a splash of color to their special day — here’s how you can, too By Shelby Bouck

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When it comes to finding that perfect dress, every bride is looking for her own, unique version of — wait for it — the exact same thing. They want the “wow factor.” Brides on reality TV use the phrase to denote a desire to stand out, to be memorable, and hey, maybe even to startle a little. And what better way to do that than to choose a gown with a hue that’s a bit truer to your own colors than the gleaming whites of yesteryear? For fearless brides whose weddings don’t need to be too traditional, colorful gowns are among this year’s most coveted trends. There are as many reasons to pick a colorful wedding gown as there are brides who choose them. Some want to look like their favorite celebrities: Jessica Biel’s bright pink wedding dress caused a stir at her 2013 nuptials with Justin Timberlake. Sex and the City alums Sarah Jessica Parker and Cynthia Nixon got married in black and green, respectively, and glamour queen Elizabeth Taylor wore a yellow dress at one of her many wedding ceremonies. Others just think they look best in rainbow hues. Experts say there’s not a thing wrong with that, either.

Courtesy Dream Gowns

“Our brides want to look and feel their absolute best on their wedding dress on an orange background and it will Expert Tip Worried day,” shared Kristen Barstow, owner of Tallahassee’s Vocelles | The Bridal ruin everything.” that ivory and eggshell Shoppe, “and sometimes that means opting for a gown in a color that will With that in mind, while celebrities in really aren’t your color? Don’t be. “When a bride flatter their complexion, exemplify the season of their wedding or be just New York and Los Angeles pick bright, infinds a gown that fits her plain different and fun.” your-face colors for their personality it is always the These vibrant brides wouldn’t be the first ladies to wedding dresses, bridal most flattering.” – Lindsey Mathews, Dream Gowns start new traditions at their weddings. For many years expert Barstow notes that British practice dictated that upper-class brides wore even the most daring silver on their wedding day. White only became the Northwest Florida brides don’t stray too far from norm after Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in a traditional colors. white lace dress. “We are seeing many brides do shades of champagne, Many cultures outside of the West don’t see white and a few even go with very pale shades of pink,” she as a traditional wedding color at all. In Asian societies, shared. for example, brides have chosen for generations to Don’t worry, there are a wide range of choices even wear bright red dresses in keeping with family and within those two hues. national customs. “Our designers at Vocelles are giving brides the When it comes to Northwest Florida, the number of options of colors that range from café to bronze in the brides who deviate from all-white ceremonies has been champagne family and pinks that range from moscato growing slowly but surely over the past few years. to blush,” noted Barstowe. “We love it when brides “It started out slow, as in ‘we’ll do a little splash of combine traditional fashion with modern taste — and color,’” remarked Destin-based photographer Mari this could mean having a beautiful ivory lace over a Darr-Welch. “Or jewels. The most (common thing) soft champagne underlay. Expert Tip “Non-traditional gowns I’ve seen is a split back, or the belt, or different-color For brides who have already had a white wedding, like this one can pull an entire theme beading on the dress.” a different color on the second time around might be or idea together and turn a typical ceremony into the wedding of A word of caution on this colorful trend. From a something to consider. your dreams.” – Lindsey Mathews, photographic perspective, Darr-Welch shared that “Brides who are getting married at a more mature manager of Dream Gowns brides who are choosing to wear rich colors should be stage in life will consider finding a dress that is not a careful about their venue’s décor. traditional white or ivory color,” explained Barstow. “If you’re going with a bold dress, then you really need to make sure Traditionalists, meanwhile, have no need to fear. For Northwest Florida your wedding colors blend with that dress,” she warned. “You can’t weddings, white and ivory gowns are here to stay. However, brides willing have opposing colors, because at some point you’ll be walking by (your to take the sartorial road less traveled will be rewarded with memories and décor), and maybe you’ll be kissing your grandma, but you’ll have a red unique photographs that will last a lifetime. n Courtesy Dream Gowns

Brittnay Therese Photography

from coast to city to country

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KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

J&J Weddings

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

Courtesy FSU ALUMNI CENTER

FSU Alumni Center

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

J&J Weddings

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

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Adjacent to Florida State’s campus, under a lush, fragrant canopy of blooming magnolias and live oaks, sits the Alumni Center. Teeming with charm, this property presents the perfect opportunity to have a fresh, outdoor-inspired wedding in the heart of Tallahassee. A beautiful backdrop for rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies and receptions, the Alumni Center’s classic design blends well with any wedding motif. For indoor events, the ballroom’s light and airy ambiance is unparalleled. As an affiliate of Andrew’s Catering, one of Tallahassee’s premier catering services, dining patrons will be treated to the highest quality in artistic cuisine. In other words, it’s the total package.

FSU Alumni Center

Photos by J&J Weddings, Kay Meyer Photography, Courtesy FSU Alumni Center NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Tallahassee Downtown

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Tallahassee’s Downtown is as unique a wedding destination as you’ll find in Northwest Florida. Somehow, this vibrant, historic corridor of Florida’s Capital City has managed to encapsulate the grace of a quaint Southern destination, with the grit of one of America’s great cities. Boasting a variety of intimate vignettes, there’s no doubt that beauty and diversity are Downtown Tallahassee’s defining characteristics — it’s where lush green spaces, classic charm and urbanpanache coexist in an unprecedented way. Photos by Elizabeth Davis Photography, Kay Meyer Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Elizabeth Davis Photography Elizabeth Davis Photography

Kay Meyer Photography

Elizabeth Davis Photography

Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

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Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

Elizabeth Davis Photography

Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

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In the heart of the South it can be rare to find sleek, contemporary options for that special day. For the couple in search of an urban backdrop with an added allure of convenience, Tallahasseeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Downtown is the place to be. Here, betrotheds are invited to vibe on the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chic metropolitan setting and accommodations, while guests are endlessly entertained by the areas many museums, boutique storefronts, gourmet dining options and lively nightlife.

Tallahassee Downtown urban

Photos by Elizabeth Davis Photography, Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

Elizabeth Davis Photography

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Tallahassee Downtown Classic

Tallahassee, renowned for its Southern charm and endless hospitality, is the ideal locale to host a true, classically inspired soiree. Sprinkled between downtownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ancient oak trees and cozy park benches, visitors will find a plethora of stately churches unparalleled in beauty to choose from for the ceremony â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and all are well within walking distance of the most delicious dining and reception locales the Capital City has to offer. Photos by Elizabeth Davis Photography, Courtesy DOWNTOWN IMPROVEMENT AUTHORITY

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Elizabeth Davis Photography

Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

Kay Meyer Photography

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In Tallahassee, anything is possible — even a waterside ceremony with a little extra edge, like those hosted at Cascades Park, with its 24-acres of open, urban space, two ponds and gushing waterfall. Hearing the call of the wild? Tallahassee’s beloved downtown is stitched together by lush green spaces more akin to an outdoor oasis than any conventional venue in today’s wedding market. If natural beauty is tickling your wedding planning fancy, choose from one of the historic Chain of Parks so perfectly cocooned by Park Avenue you’ll almost forget you’re in Northwest Florida’s epicenters of cultural enlightenment.

Tallahassee Downtown Natural

Photos by Elizabeth Davis Photography, Kay Meyer Photography, Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority, CITY OF TALLAHASSEE NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Four Points

Courtesyy Four Points Sheraton

Sheraton

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Lewis JOHNSON photography

Courtesyy Four Points Sheraton

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Four Points Spiraling up from the heart of Tallahassee into the city skyline, Four Points by Sheraton has created a reputation for itself as both a glimmering sapphire landmark and Tallahassee’s newest luxury hotel. By day, you and your guests will be able to relax by the cool, refreshing pool — and by night, you’ll enjoy exquisite onsite catering in the resort’s impressive ballroom. Your entire guest list will marvel at the beauty and accommodations of the more than 150 rooms of the hotel, making Four Points by Sheraton a perfect wedding destination. Photos by Lewis Johnson

Sheraton

Photography, Courtesy Four points Sheraton NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Shiloh Farm

WELCOME TO SHILOH . . . one of the South's most unique and memorable venues! Shiloh Farm is an enchanting event venue nestled in the charming Southern countryside near Tallahassee. With 65 acres of open fields, majestic oaks and charming outbuildings, it is the perfect setting for outdoor or chapel weddings and numerous other events. From the Grand Ol’ Barn (heated and cooled with charming restrooms!) and the 200-year-old Shiloh Chapel, to the quaint Rose Cottage and its beautiful Tea Room, there is a picturesque spot at Shiloh for any size celebration. weddings · fundraisers · corporate events · sorority/fraternity gatherings · festivals & concerts

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1500 Benjamin Chaires Road, Tallahassee, Florida – just 7 minutes from I-10 850-766-5902 · ShilohEvents.com · BookShilohEvents@gmail.com NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

from coast to city to country

Escape to the Country

ELIZABETH DAVIS Photography

Elegant estates lined with giant oaks. Gorgeous rustic barns set atop lush, rolling hills. Getting away from it all has never been so elegant.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Courtesy Andrew's Catering

from coast to city to country

Menu Inspiration:

The Soul of the South Southern comfort food leaves a delicious impression — even at the most sophisticated soirées By Chay D. Baxley

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Somewhere, likely lost Expert Tip “Once, forever in the vaults of the brides figure out Pinterest, an idea so the theme they want to run with, it just deliciously unexpected works.” – Andrew was hatched that it Reiss, owner of sparked an entirely new Andrew’s Catering generation of wedding planning connoisseurs. The notion? To add a dash of Southern hospitality and panache to reception fare by reinventing traditional menus in surprisingly savory ways. Imagine — serving food at a wedding that people actually want to eat. It was a breakthrough. And the wedding game, for all intents and purposes, was forever changed. Once word was out that Southern comfort food was the new caviar — anything (literally, anything) was on the table. Cornbread, fried

chicken, alligator tail and gourmet shrimp-andgrit stations were seamlessly incorporated into the finest of place settings. Nationwide, skilled catering professionals began pouring themselves into mastering the art of hors d’oeuvres like fried green tomatoes and gourmet mac-n-cheese bites while pastry chefs and bakers concentrated on the sweeter points of Southern cookery, like the disheveled perfection of a deconstructed multi-tiered cake. Though imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, according to locals in Northwest Florida there’s simply no substitute for the real thing. And when it comes to Old South cuisine, this region’s offerings are authentic. “Southern-inspired menus are consistent with the look and feel of (our) venues,” emphasized Andy Reiss, owner of Andrew’s Catering as well as Tallahassee’s two iconic restaurants, Andrew’s Capital Grill & Bar and Andrew’s 228. “I love running with a theme,” he continued. “If you’re going to get married under a big oak tree with Spanish moss hanging from it, don’t you think that a good fit would be to have a Southern-inspired, plantation-type menu?” On that point, countless brides couldn’t agree more. As a result, the uptick in requests for Southern-styled menus is undeniable and has coaxed many service providers, including Andrew’s, to embrace this trend with open arms and conveniently customizable menu options. “We’ve developed an entire Southern-inspired menu,” shared Reiss. “As soon as we hear (a buzz

word) or about a venue where these menus work so well, it’s not really a problem finding food that fits the bill.” Along the Gulf Coast, the same rules apply. “We’ve definitely seen an increase,” agreed Rachel Forman, event coordinator at Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurants & Catering in Seaside. “People have been adding collard greens to their menus and gumbos. I think it gives guests coming from out of state a taste for our food down here and just a chance to try something new.” While partygoers are sure to love the flavor, making mama’s favorites fit for a fantastic evening can be a bit of a challenge. Experts say the right amount of modernization mixed with some sassy verbiage on the menu front is crucial to making this cuisine taste and feel current. “There’s a number of ways people can bring that Southern flair into their menu — especially being down here in the South,” said Sarah Ennis, lead event coordinator with Klassic Katering in Tallahassee. “Southern weddings are definitely the trend,” she added. “But more than that, we want to incorporate our heritage and our upbringing into the event and to give it that true Southern charm. “One way to do that is by incorporating some modern ingredients into Southern favorites. Since the farm-to-table concept is really, really popular right now, it allows us to source the freshest local ingredients in order to modernize

Gwynemark Photography

Mari Darr~Welch

Courtesy Andrew's Catering

from coast to city to country

those Southern faExpert Tip “Outside vorites that a bride or of using the freshest couple might have had ingredients that you can find, presentation in their childhood. For is key.” – Robert example, chicken and Bulgarella, owner of waffles is something we Bistro Catering can do with a great local rosemary-infused honey.” For styles that vary from the traditional (the plated or buffet), industry professionals are always finding fresh, creative ideas for food service the day of the event. Considering serving an appetizer of tomato soup and petite grilled cheese sandwiches? Have your catering company present them in champagne flutes for an interesting and sexy twist on an old-school favorite. The options for this trend are endless and, thus far, it appears to be anything but fleeting. n

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Elizabeth Birdwell Photography

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations Footstone Photography

Elizabeth Birdwell Photography

Shiloh Farm Chapel and Barn â&#x20AC;¨

Amy Little Photography

Courtesy Shiloh Farm

Elizabeth Birdwell Photography

Courtesy Shiloh Farm

from coast to city to country

Shiloh Farm, Chapel and Barn is a beautiful, 65-acre venue on the outskirts of Tallahassee ideally situated where town meets country. A true storybook setting, this gem is perfectly equipped to create timeless memories. No matter the occasion, the charm of Shilohâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s climate-controlled barn, canopy oaks and open meadows, as well as the antique elegance of the 18th-century chapel, is sure to delight. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the fairytale extras at the Rose Cottage!

Shiloh Farm Chapel and Barn

PHOTOS BY Amy Little Photography, Elizabeth Birdwell Photography, Footstone Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Augusta Jones Blue by Enzoani Blush by Hayley Paige Casablanca Bridal Essense of Australia Love Marley Maggie Sottero Pronovias Watters Wtoo

Gowns start at $800.

Samples range from size 2 - 28. w w w.voc elle sbridal. c o m 1240 Thomasville Road Tallahassee, Florida (850) 841-7663

Photo credit: Blush by Hayley Paige

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making it happen

Sonja Revells Photography

In Northwest Florida, We Know Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Who

Hosting a beautiful wedding is a process greater than just the sum of its parts. When fate introduces a bride to vendors who understand the ins-and-outs of this industry, and are as eager about the big day as she is, then the stars have truly aligned. NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Terri Smith Photography

making it happen

Top Tips to Wedded Bliss Northwest Florida’s etiquette experts offer up their most utilized rules for wedding planning By Leanne Castro // Illustration by Rebecca Sumerall

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

You know it’s true — from the moment the two of you shared the news of your pending nuptials with family and friends you’ve been showered with all the love and light they could muster. An unparalleled celebration, this season of romance, joy and laughter is perfectly designed to bring old friends together to create new, unforgettable memories. It’s a beautiful, once-in-alifetime kind of thing. But remember, the wedding planning process is a delicate dichotomy. Along with all that love and bliss bestowed on you comes quite a bit of responsibility. When logistics come into play, there’s a lot of pressure and expectations thrust upon the happy couple. And the last thing you want is to offend someone dear to you. Fear not, though. Professional etiquette experts like Elizabeth Redfearn of Redfearn Etiquette and John Gandy of John Gandy Events, have dedicated their lives to helping ease any sort of self-doubt that might be creeping into your mind right about now. Here are their top 10 favorite tips for couples in the thick of planning.

making it happen

When putting together seating arrangements for the reception dinner, try to be thoughtful in your assignments. Sure, your guests are there for you — but they’ll really enjoy themselves if you take the time to seat them next to someone you know they’ll hit it off with. For an added personal touch and to help conversations flow, try putting a fun fact on everyone’s place card. Write quick notes like, “The fellow on your right served in the Peace Corps,” or “Aunt Lou, the woman to your left, is famous for her apple pie.” “You have to be concerned with making sure the people who are sitting next to each other will get along,” instructed Redfearn.

envelope. Ipso facto, if the child is invited to the wedding, his or her name will be included on the envelope. If it is not, well then, you get the idea. Gandy also noted the possibility of offering a babysitting service onsite for those attendees with children too young to be left alone.

can’t come at all, the gracious thing for the bride to do is to be understanding and not make them feel bad.”

Another cost that accumulates during the wedding planning process is that of sending invitations. There are certain people in the bride and groom’s life — such as grandparents who live far away and are unable to travel — who you think it’s futile to send an invitation, knowing quite well they will not be able to attend. But experts urge couples to send out invitations as a courtesy to anyone they know would be honored to receive the memento as a keepsake.

Erring on the side of inclusiveness with invitations is true when it comes to deciding who in the office to invite, as well. “My rule of thumb is that if you would go out to dinner with them, include them. If you’re inviting everyone but one person, that’s the sort of slight that you might not want to have,” Gandy said.

There are several options for who can walk the bride’s mother down the aisle. It could be her spouse, son or even the groom. Or it could be the head usher. The bride’s mother should be the last person to be seated before the ceremony starts.

A bride should give her guests until two weeks before the wedding to RSVP. Any time after that will risk complicating the catering company’s final head count.

In this modern age, anybody can walk the bride down the aisle, be it her father, uncle or girlfriend. “A lot of independent women,” explained Gandy, “want that to be their moment and they don’t want to be ‘given away.’ There are no rules now.”

Deciding whether to allow children to attend the ceremony and reception is a touchy subject. Both Redfearn and Gandy have encountered countless instances involving wedding guests who took little heed to the wedding party’s request for no children. To avoid coming off as abrasive by writing “no children allowed” on the invitation, Redfearn recommends including the names of every person invited on the invitation

Being a bridesmaid can get pretty expensive. Eventually, the costs of the luncheons, bridal showers and dresses start to add up. Due to this, Gandy shared, brides encounter bridesmaids backing out of their duties more often than one might think. “A lot of people accept in the excitement of the moment and then they realize the expenses involved,” Gandy disclosed. “They can’t necessarily afford to do it. If somebody can’t afford to participate in your wedding but they’d still like to be a guest or if they

More and more women are getting married later in life or for a second or third time. With this change, some of the wedding traditions alter slightly. “Typically, the attire and bridal party size would change with a second or third wedding, or an older couple — but, to each his own,” Gandy said. He added that it is probably not appropriate to have a wedding registry for a second or third wedding. Redfearn echoed those sentiments as well. For these types of ceremonies, simplicity is often key.

During the planning process, don’t rely exclusively on social media. For the millennial bride this can be a particular challenge, but in years to come you’ll be thrilled to have a physical copy of your wedding announcement instead of a link to a Facebook post. n

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

making it happen

Vocelles The Bridal Shoppe

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A welcoming air of laid-back luxury fills the walls of Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe. Crystal chandeliers and rows of exquisite bridal gowns give the boutique a feel of elegance — while the shop’s caring and compassionate stylists make sure each bride’s visit is always personal and fun. Expect an experience characterized by individual service, where brides and their guests are encouraged to peruse the shop’s collection of gowns from the industry’s most sought-after designers. Prices begin in the $800s and samples vary in size from 2 through 28. Conveniently set in the center of Tallahassee’s bustling Midtown district, Vocelles Bridal is the area’s leader in bridal fashion. PHOTOS BY Mi Amore Foto

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Vocelles The Bridal Shoppe

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Steve Corbett Photography

Courtesy of Klassic Katering

Terri Smith Photography

Klassic Katering

John Gallino Photography

Steve Corbett Photography John Gallino Photography

John Gallino Photography

Steve Corbett Photography

John Gallino Photography

making it happen

Taste can create powerful memories — and mastering the flavor of love is Karen Chapman’s specialty. The proprietor and heart behind Klassic Katering, Chapman and her crew of brilliant gourmets are known for creating mouthwatering fare, seasoned to perfection with equal parts experience, passion and sass. Always clued-in on the latest in culinary delights, there’s no event too grand nor too intimate for this capable company. From contract signing to days-end, Chapman’s chief concern is making sure the happy couple stays just that way — “I make the bride, my bride,” she says with a smile.

Klassic Katering

PHOTOS BY John Gallino Photography, Steve Corbett Photography, Terri Smith Photography, Courtesy Klassic Katering NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

making it happen

john gandy events

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Attention to the details is what makes an already special wedding day truly magical. With an undeniable flair for bringing romance to life, John Gandy Events is perfectly poised to coordinate all of your matrimonial activities — leaving you free to delight in the day’s loving festivities completely worry free. Whether you’re aiming for rustic chic, Southern elegance or coastal charm, Gandy’s dedication to authentic style is unprecedented and his knowledge of a constantly evolving industry is utterly unmatched. PHOTOS BY Woodland Fields Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

john gandy events

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

making it happen

john gandy events

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From lighting to seating, signage to silverware, every aspect of your wedding day warrants thought and care. Lucky for you, there’s already someone out there who has all the answers — John Gandy Events. Gandy’s team has curated thousands of hand-picked design elements from which to choose. With their eye for style and on-trend mindset, you’ll be sure to find exactly what you’re searching for, ensuring a beautiful, memorable day for not only you, but for your guests. PHOTOS BY Kay Meyer Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

john gandy events

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Bijoux

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Bijoux is one of the Emerald Coast’s most deliciously upscale dining and catering experiences. Appropriately nestled in the The Market Shops of Sandestin, the restaurant’s fresh, lush location makes it as well suited for a lively rehearsal dinner as it is an unforgettably elegant ceremony and reception destination. A truly one-of-a-kind venue, Bijoux is renowned for pairing Southern hospitality with fine French cuisine in a fun and intimate, yet sophisticated, atmosphere. And have you seen their wine list? Photos by Pure 7 Studios, Courtesy Flowers by Milk and Honey

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Pure 7 Studios

Courtesy Flowers by Milk and Honey

making it happen

Pure 7 Studios

Courtesy Flowers by Milk and Honey

Pure 7 Studios

Bijoux

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Amy Riley Photography

Dream Gowns

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Amy Riley Photography

Leah Langely Photography

making it happen

There are few mementos of your special day that will last the test of time — your dress is one of them. In years to come, tangible items such as this will become symbols of love to you and your family. At Dream Gowns, located in sunny Panama City, they’re skilled in selecting timeless silhouettes for brides and bridesmaids that complement the individual, instead of blindly adhering to fleeting trends. The staff’s eye for fit and flair and the vastness of their collection — with over 1,500 gowns to choose from — lands Dream Gowns in a league that is very much all its own. PHOTOS BY Leah Langley Photography,

Dream Gowns

Amy Riley Photography NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Paul Johnson Photography

Pure 7 Studios

Hello Miss lovely

Fisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flowers & Events

Hello Miss lovely

Erin Nicole Photography

Hello Miss lovely& Events

Paul Johnson Photography

making it happen

Twinkling lights and natural, ethereal style is the cornerstone for one of the region’s most-loved event companies — Fisher’s Flowers and Events. What started as a dream of a roadside flower cart for the Santa Rosa Beach-based creative geniuses quickly blossomed into something much, much more. An innovative and exciting floral and event design firm, Fisher’s Flowers is described by clients as “organic, fresh and perfect for the space.” PHOTOS BY Erin Nicole Photography,

Fisher’s Flowers & Events

Hello Miss lovely, Paul Johnson Photography, Pure 7 Studios

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Courtesy ANDREW'S CATERING

Andrew’s Catering

Restaurateur Andy Reiss’ mouthwatering menus have been a hallmark in downtown Tallahassee for over 40 years. Bringing decades of culinary experience to Andrew’s Catering, Andy and his professional staff are constantly developing new and exciting menus that seamlessly fuse the richness of flavor and texture to complement the overall spirit of any event. With a fulltime event planner and catering director on staff, the Andrew’s team will make sure every detail of the big day is planned and executed to perfection. As a full-service caterer serving North Florida, Andrew’s Catering is well versed in handling any size group and menu style, from fun, casual finger fare to gourmet plated dinners served with élan. Photos By J&J WEddings, COURTESY ANDREW’S Catering

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Courtesy ANDREW'S CATERING

J & J WEddings

Courtesy ANDREW'S CATERING

making it happen

Nestled in the shadows of Florida’s Capitol sits Andrew’s 228, an avant-garde dining option with a tasteful, metro vibe. Perfect for rehearsal dinners and small receptions — and, when you need to sneak away, a romantic dinner for two — this venue specializes in Modern Southern Cuisine. Designed to accentuate intimate conversation, Andrew’s 228 offers several dining areas that allow private events to enjoy the celebration at hand. Cheers. Photos COURTESY ANDREW’S 228

Andrew’s 228

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

making it happen Andrews & Arnsdorff Realty The perfect post-wedding adventure is waiting for you on the shores of the Emerald Coast — and the real estate gurus at Andrews & Arnsdorff Realty Inc. can help you capture it. With a firm understanding of the market, a love of the local culture and a keen eye for beachfront beauty, these experienced brokers, agents and managers pride themselves on “selling a lifestyle, not just a property.” Of course, they’ll let you rent one, too. aaflrealty.com

Realty & Rentals

Stacy’s Makeup and More When the biggest day of your life rolls around, make sure you’re putting your best face forward. Stacy’s Makeup and More boasts 18 years of professional experience and brings to the region a dedication to making each client look and feel utterly beautiful. With an artistic approach to hair and makeup, a bride can be assured she will feel “naturally glamorous.” After all, looking good and feeling good aren’t really all that different. stacysmakeupandmore.com

Makeup Artistry

VIP Star Spotlight The bridal party and honored guests can arrive in style with the help of VIP Star Spotlight, a limousine service in Tallahassee. With 15 years of trusted experience in the industry, Spotlight’s gorgeous fleet of Rolls-Royce luxury vehicles will facilitate the perfect entrance to your city or country wedding, or any other special event. bit.ly/vipstar

Limo Service

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Make memories to cherish for a lifetime at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Offering the largest selection of luxurious venues on Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast, Sandestin is the perfect backdrop for that special day. From sugary white sand beaches and lush green lawns, to elegant stately ballrooms and serene bayfront terraces, Sandestin can make your perfect wedding a dream come true. sandestin.com/flwed

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Resort & Venue

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

making it happen Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa Kissed by the warm salty breezes of the Gulf, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is the perfect choice for the couple in search of a timeless beach ceremony and an overall experience highlighted by unprecedented customer service on the beautiful Emerald Coast. Wedding guests will adore this spot for its understated glamour, convivial atmosphere and gorgeous amenities. This resort can deliver it all, from pre-wedding rituals to post-nuptial relaxation. HiltonSandestinBeach.com

Resort & Venue

Serenity by the sea Spa Be sure to include a visit to Serenity by the sea Spa when planning your wedding weekend activities. The full-service spa at Hilton Sandestin Beach is the perfect place to relax away those pre-wedding jitters with a menu of massage, facial and body treatments. And a recent expansion to the Image Center allows the entire wedding party to enjoy a spa-style bridesmaid’s lunch as well as beautifying together with hair services, manicures and pedicures. SerenitybytheseaSpa.com

Beauty & Spa

The Coastal Ballroom The newest addition to the event spaces at Hilton Sandestin Beach is the Coastal Ballroom, completed in spring 2015. The 7,500-square-foot space, which can be divided into three smaller sections, features an open-ceiling concept — it’s black with “clouds” that can give the appearance of a romantic starry night during your wedding festivities. The resort has 60,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor venues, so you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your ceremony, reception and other wedding gatherings. HiltonSandestinBeach.com

Venue

Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood When only the best will do, treat your guests to an event at Seagar’s, the only AAA-Four Diamond-rated steakhouse on the Emerald Coast. Private rooms are available for groups of all sizes, making the New York-style steakhouse perfect for everything from small family gatherings to elegant rehearsal dinners. Chef Dan Vargo will create a menu to suit your style, featuring Prime beef and fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood. Seagar’s also features the largest wine list on the coast, with more than 600 labels to choose from. Seagars.com

Restaurant & Catering

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

making it happen Madison Social We all know that wedding celebrations extend far beyond The Big Day. Madison Social offers brides a unique and modern setting for engagement parties, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and post-wedding brunches. With private event space for up to 100 and full offsite catering and bartending services, our professional event planning staff will help you with every detail on your way to “I Do.” madisonsocial.com

Restaurant & Catering

Bijoux The fresh, eclectic flavor of Destin’s award-winning restaurant Bijoux is a delightful way to move any event to the next level. With catering for all styles of special soirees, the culinary masterminds at Bijoux can customize their exquisite Gulf and French-inspired menu to fit any ambiance and taste preference. Plus, their extensive wine lists and pairing expertise provide the final touch to already delicious occasions. bijouxdestin.com

Venue & Catering

Russell Rainey, DMD You’ve heard the saying, “a picture’s worth a thousand words.” On your wedding day, it may as well be worth a million. Make sure your smile is at its brightest with the help of the skilled professionals at Dr. Rainey’s office in Tallahassee. Your smile — and the smiles of your entire wedding party — can be camera ready with their gentle whitening techniques. And don’t forget about Invisalign, the clear alternative to braces! drrainey.com

Cosmetic Dentistry

Zuutto Delight in the moments of your wedding every day by transforming your favorite photos into works of art that will last a lifetime. Simply upload a photo and Zuutto will create gallery wrap edged, canvas-style pieces beautifully printed in full-color archival inks. Each canvas will include readyto-hang hardware and will be shipped to your door — all at an extremely agreeable price point designed to fit every budget. zuutto.com

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Keepsakes

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

making it happen Bud & Alley's Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico in Seaside, Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant set the standard for culinary excellence along Scenic 30A since its founding in 1986. Bud & Alley’s has recently established Bud & Alley’s Catering Company in Grayton Beach, and is now offering on-site and off-site catering for all occasions, special events, corporate events and weddings. budandalleys.com

Restaurant & Catering

Governors inn Timeless elegance, expert service and an impressive address await guests at The Governors Inn. A premier, boutique hotel in Tallahassee’s downtown district, the Inn — along with its 41 stately rooms and ample gathering spaces — is as seamlessly matched for bridal party accommodations when the entire family is involved as it is a historic honeymoon for two. Posh, preppy and full of Southern-style hospitality, this gem is a favorite of socialites and dignitaries alike. thegovinn.org

D D

Hotel & Venue

Mike’s Limousine Service

Double Decker Bus Florida Largest

charter

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he USA

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doubledeckerbusflorida.com | 850-251-6453 Tallahassee • Gainesville • Jacksonville • Miami • Naples • Orlando • Panama City • Pensacola • Tampa • West Palm Beach • Southern Alabama NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Love

ceremonies • receptions • rehearsal dinners golf outings • bridal parties 4801 Highway 30A W | Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 850.267.2305 | Vueon30a.com

All Photos Courtesy of Jubilee Photography or The Red Fly Studio

Bridal Registry • Gifts Wine • Furniture • Table Top Linens • Lamps • Fine Art Design Consultation • Shipping Available

Create your own oasis and surround yourself with what you

Love

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Distinctive, Timeless, Coastal Elegance for the Home

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

542 Harrison Avenue | Historic Downtown Panama City, FL 850.215.7542 | AvenueSea.com | avenueseapc@knology.net

Fisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flowers is a boutique floral design firm specializing in weddings and special events. Our team tailors each design specific to the style and vibe of our clients. We have been grateful members of the 30A community since 2008.

fishersflowersandevents.com . 850.622.0056 416 S. County Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beach . owners: Adam and Grove Fisher NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

Follow your heart ... to the Emerald Coast.

Beach Dreaming? We can help. We understand the market. Regardless of whether you are buying, selling, relocating, vacationing or just looking, our experienced brokers, agents and managers live here and work here for the same reason you are looking: the beautiful beaches and wonderful service by people who really care. The Emerald Coast is not just a spectacular location, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a long forgotten lifestyle. Andrews & Arnsdorff Realty, Inc. is a full service real estate brokerage firm established to provide the Northwest Florida community a fresh positive approach to real estate services with experienced brokers, agents and managers dedicated to accomplishing success concerning all your real estate needs.

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

aaflrealty.com Main Office

Vacation Office - Seagrove on the Beach

850.267.0050

800.732.4768

2129 S. Co. Hwy 83, Unit B Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

5311 E. Co. Hwy 30-A, Ste. 4 Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

850.422.0071

Your Happier Ever After...Our Pleasure

Start your ever after with the unique style and expertise this day truly deserves. Relax at our poolside bar, savor delicious flavors at Juicy Blue bistro and sleep soundly in one of our luxurious, Four Comfort Beds.

-Free Parking -Free Wi-Fi -Fitness Center

-Free shuttle service downtown, to all university campuses and airport

- Heated pool -Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served daily

-7,000+ sq. ft. of meeting space -Fully renovated in 2012

Four Points by Sheraton Tallahassee Downtown | www.FourPointsTallahasseeDowntown.com

316 W. Tennessee Street, Tallahassee Florida 32301

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

The SouthWood House

BEST GOLF COURSE

AN EXTRAORDINARY SETTING FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY! Offering expansive amenities without sacrificing intimacy. We would love to share with you how our facilities, caring attitude and attention to detail align with your dreams. 3750 Grove Park Drive, Tallahassee, Florida 32311 • 850.942. GOLF (4653) • southwoodgolf.com

Welcomed like a friend, pampered like a guest Enjoy traditional Southern hospitality and personalized service just steps from the Capitol. The Governors Inn provides elegant rooms and suites with privacy and luxury located in the center of Tallahassee’s vibrant and historic downtown.

209 S. Adams St. | (850) 681-6855 | thegovinn.com 76 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Where amazing is unforgettable. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing more romantic, more memorable or more private than a wedding aboard a gorgeous yacht on the Emerald Coast. The SOLARIS offers unparalleled value with in-house event planners, an award-winning culinary team and a variety of tailored wedding packages, beginning at $46 per person. Experience the best wedding venue in North Florida, six years running from the Knot, and the best wedding venue on the Emerald Coast, four years running as voted by the readers of Emerald Coast Magazine.

su n qu estcrui ses.com

850.650.2519

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

reating weddings & events of your dreams

overlooking the beach or anywhere!

A legendary tradition in Seaside, FL for 29 years

C AT E R I N G

B ud & Alley’s Catering is happy to book your rehearsal dinner, wedding, corporate event or party of any kind. Choose from one of our beautiful beachfront locations in Seaside, FL – Bud & Alley’s or the Pizza Bar. We also specialize in offsite catering at any place of your choosing. To design the event of your dreams, contact Rachel Forman at rachel@budandalleys.com or call 850.460.5802

Your Chariot 0 Awaits!

A Picture Perfect Wedding Venue

On your day of magical moments, let Capital City Pedicabs provide our fun + unique Marriage Carriage — a charming twist on wedding transportation!

Bridal Party Transportion Shuttle Service for Guests Transport from Wedding to Reception a Newlywed Ride to Honeymoon Suite Serving Tallahassee + the Emerald Coast 850.597.2276 · capitalcitypedicabs.com events@capitalcitypedicabs.com @ccpedicabsllc 78 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Fort Walton Beach, Florida • 850-243-9161 • ramadafwb.com

Celebrate in Salty Florida!

Franklin County scenic beaches · landmark churches · idyllic parks · historic bed & breakfasts beachfront accommodations · championship golf · catering and photography fresh seafood · fishing · boating · hiking · unique shops · restaurants

Beach photos by Rollstad Photography

Discover more at SaltyFlorida.com/wed

Inn photos by Mari’s Paradise Images

Apalachicola · St. George Island · Carrabelle · Alligator Point

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

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resource guide Advertiser Index Andrews & Arnsdorff ��p. 68, 74 1732 W. County Rd. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 aaflrealty.com, (850) 267-0050 Andrew’s Catering ��p. 4, 5 228 S. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 andrewsdowntown.com, (850) 222-3444 Avenue Sea �� p. 72 542 Harrison Ave., Panama City, FL 32401 avenuesea.com, (850) 215-7542 B-Boy Productions ��p. 80 bboyproductions.com, (888) 825-0655 Bijoux ��p. 14, 70 9375 Emerald Coast Pkwy., #22, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 bijouxdestin.com, (850) 622-0760 Bud and Alley’s Catering Company ��p. 71, 78 2236 E. County Rd. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 budandalleys.com, (850) 460-5802 Capital City Pedicabs ��p. 78 capitalcitypedicabs.com, (850) 597-2276 Downtown Improvement Authority ��p. 30 106 E. Jefferson St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 sayidodowntown.com, (850) 224-3252 Dream Gowns �� Inside Back Cover 619 Hwy 231, Panama City, FL 32405 shopdreamgowns.com, (850) 747-1362 Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau ��p. 3 1540 Miracle Strip Pkwy. SE Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 emeraldcoastfl.com, (850) 651-7131 Fisher’s Flowers �� p. 73 416 S. Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 fishersflowersandevents.com, (850) 622-0056 Four Points by Sheraton ��p. 75 316 W. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 fourpointstallahasseedowntown.com, (850) 422-0071 Franklin County Tourist Development Council ��p. 79 SaltyFlorida.com/wed, (866) 914-2068 Governors Inn ��p. 71, 76 209 S. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 thegovinn.com, (850) 681-6855 Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa ��p. 8, 69 4000 Sandestin Blvd. S, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 sandestinbeachhilton.com, (850) 267-9604 John Gandy Events ��Inside Front Cover 3463 Garber Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32303 johngandyevents.com, (850) 570-5999 Klassic Katering �� p. 6, 7 2207 Bannerman Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312 klassickatering.com, (850) 894-0423 Madison Social ��p. 70 705 S. Woodward Ave., #101, Tallahassee, FL 32304 madisonsocial.com, (850) 894-6276 Mike’s Limo & Charter Bus ��p. 71 3109 W. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32304 doubledeckerbusflorida.com, (850) 251-6453 82 2015

Rainey, Russell B, DMD ��p. 70, 74 221 E. 7th Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32303 drrainey.com, (850) 385-3700 Ramada Plaza Beach Resort ��p. 78 1500 Miracle Strip Pkwy. SE Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 ramadafwb.com, (850) 243-9161 ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals ��Back Cover 546 Mary Esther Cut-Off NW, #3 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 nwflweddings.com, (888) 412-6408 Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort �� p. 11, 68 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Miramar Beach, FL 32550 sandestin.com/flwed, (850) 267-6736 Shiloh Farm Chapel and Barn ��p. 42 1500 Benjamin Chaires Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32317 shilohevents.com, (850) 766-5902 SouthWood Golf Club ��p. 76 3750 Grove Park Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32311 southwoodgolf.com, (850) 942-4653 Sunquest Cruises/Solaris �� p. 77 P.O. Box 6948, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 sunquestcruises.com, (850) 650-2519 Stacy’s Makeup & More ��p. 68 stacysmakeupandmore.com, (469) 867-0852 Tallahassee Diamond Center ��p. 81 1355 Market St, Tallahassee, FL 32312 tallahasseediamonds.com, (850) 906-9213 VIP Star Spotlight ��p. 68 215 W. College Ave., Tallahassee, FL 32301 bit.ly/vipstar, (850) 345-7440 Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe ��p. 48 1355 Market Street, Tallahassee, FL 32312 vocellesbridal.com, (850) 906-9213 Vue on 30a �� p. 72 334 Golf Club Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 santarosaclub.com, (850) 267-2229 Zuutto ��p. 70 zuutto.com

Photographer Index Alena Bakutis Photography ��p. 9 alenabakutis.com, (850) 778-5370 Amy Little Photography ��p. 47 amylittlephotography.com, (850) 625-8670 Amy Riley Photography ��p. 62, 63 amyrileyphotography.com, (850) 819-9037 Amy Susi Photography �� p. 28, 29 susiphotography.com, (850) 797-5144 Barefoot Beach Weddings ��p. 24 barefootweddings.net, (850) 244-9277 Black & Hue Photography ��Cover blackandhueproject.com, (850) 443-4796 Brittnay Therese Photography ��p. 33 brittnaytherese.com, (850) 461-6327 Callie Gardiner Photography �� p. 20, 21 calliegardiner.com, (850) 259-5841

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

DEX Designs Photography ��p. 25 dexdesignsphotography.com, (850) 687-9575 Elizabeth Birdwell Photography ��p. 46, 47 elizabethbirdwell.com, (850) 544-1554 Elizabeth Davis Photography �� p. 36-39, 43 elizabethdavisphoto.com, (850) 443-2956 Erin Nicole Photography ��p. 65 byerinnicole.com, (904) 345-0595 Footstone Photography ��p. 46 footstonephotography.com, (352) 562-3066 Gwynemark Photography ��p. 45 gwynemarkphotography.com, (850) 376-3066 Hello Miss Lovely ��p. 64, 65 hellomisslovely.com, (850) 774-3041 J & J Weddings ��p. 34, 35, 66 jandjweddings.com, (850) 933-6033 Jacqueline Ward Images ��p. 32 jacquelinewardimages.com, (850) 527-1205 Jan Ethridge Photography ��p. 22, 23 jcethridgephotography.com, (850) 758-0873 John Gallino Photography ��p. 55 johngallino.com, (201) 647-9161 Kansas Pitts Photography ��p. 15 kansaspitts.com, (850) 387-6016 Kay Meyer Photography ��p. 31, 34-36, 39, 58, 59 kaymeyerphotography.com, (850) 894-4529 Leah Langley Photography ��p. 63 leahlangley.com, (407) 506-8660 Lewis Johnson Photography ��p. 41 lejphotography.com, (850) 583-0040 Mari Darr~Welch, Modern Photojournalist ��p. 9, 45 maridarrwelch.com, (850) 699-3403 Mi Amore Foto ��p. 52, 53 miamorefoto.com, (904) 545-0432 Michael Allen Photography ��p. 26, 27 michaelallenphotography.com, (931) 674-1115 Paul Johnson Photography �� p. 64, 65 pauljohnsonphoto.com, (850) 832-4309 Pure 7 Studios ��p. 9, 19, 60, 61, 64, pure7studios.com, (877) 865-PURE (7873) Red Stone Photos ��p. 21 redstonephotos.com, (850) 585-5535 Sonja Revells Photography ��p. 49 sonyarevellsphotography.com, (415) 913-9597 Steve Corbett Photography ��p. 54, 55 stevecorbett.com, (850) 443-5980 Terri Smith Photography ��p. 50, 54 terrismithphoto.com, (850) 321-5609 Woodland Fields Photography ��p. 56, 57 woodlandfieldsphotography.com, (850) 559-1095

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Kids, Just Say YESS!

Harley Meyer models the Taylor Haugen/EvoShield sport safety shirt in the football locker room of Niceville High School. Meyer used the shirt during the football season last year.

On Aug. 30, 2008, 15-year-old Taylor Haugen died from internal bleeding he suffered from a torn liver as a result of impact injuries during the kickoff of a Niceville High School football game. Afterward, Taylor’s parents, Brian and Kathy Haugen, established the Taylor Haugen Foundation. The foundation formed the YESS Program (Youth Equipment for Sport Safety) with the express goal of reducing the number of sports-related injuries in middle and high school athletes. YESS provides both awareness and technologically advanced safety equipment for youth contactsports teams. The foundation has partnered with EvoShield to create a quarter-inch-thin, lightweight composite-material protective shield that forms to each student’s body as it hardens to provide protection for youth contact-sports players to help prevent injuries. To date, the foundation has outfitted 2,150 student-athletes. To that we say, “YESS indeed,” the foundation has honored the young life of Taylor Haugen in fine fashion. — Alexandra Dishman

*happiness is ...

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Hear, Hear for Healdsburg CALIFORNIA’S SMALL-TOWN WINE COUNTRY REMEMBER “SIDEWAYS,” the 2004 movie about two men taking a driving tour through California wine country? And the part where Paul Giamatti’s character declares: “If anyone orders Merlot, I’m leaving. I am NOT drinking any (insert bad word here) Merlot!”? And you were thinking, “But I like Merlot.” For the casual drinker, wine can be intimidating. “Why,” you might wonder, “can’t I taste the hint of Passion fruit, the citrus notes or the peppery finish?” And the thought of an entire vacation revolving around vineyards and tastings … well, the vision of showing your wine ignorance is downright terrifying. If you’re this person — but are friends with a oenophile or related to a wine snob — I’ve got the perfect place to visit that will satisfy the sophisticated palate while allowing you to dip your metaphorical toe into the wine barrel. It’s Healdsburg (pronounced heeledsburg), California. California’s wine country isn’t limited to the bigger and better-known Napa Valley. You’ll find this less flashy 168 April–May 2015

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and more laid-back winemaking region in Sonoma County — home to no less than 100 vineyards — about an hour north of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t just take my word for it; Wine Enthusiast magazine named Sonoma County one of the 10 Best Wine Destinations in the world for 2014. Even if you don’t take the first sip of the fruit of the vine, you’re sure to enjoy the scenic convergence of the Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River valleys, delightful inns and guesthouses and the exceptional food culture to be found in and around Healdsburg. While the grape harvest season is in the fall, Healdsburg offers pleasant weather and interesting things to do and see all year long. Chances are you’ve never heard of most of the wineries here or seen their wares on your local liquor store shelf; the vast majority don’t produce enough bottles to distribute nationwide. So, it’s up to you to spend your day wandering from tasting room to tasting room in an attempt to find your perfect bottle.

LAMBERT BRIDGE WINERY/ROBB MCDONOUGH

BY ROSANNE DUNKELBERGER

LAMBERT BRIDGE WINERY

TRATTORE FARMS

A scenic view of Trattore Farms (facing page), located on the rolling hillsides of the Dry Creek Valley. Owner Tim Bucher gives a “Get Your Boots Dirty” tour (top) to visitors. You’re surrounded by wine barrels in the wood-paneled tasting room (left) at Lambert Bridge Winery. The winery (above) is picturesque, with grounds that provide the perfect spot for a picnic.

DESTINATION: HEALDSBURG ABOUT AN HOUR'S DRIVE NORTHWEST OF NAPA VALLEY IN SONOMA COUNTY

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MAURITSON WINERY

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a high hill with a spectacular view of Dry Creek Valley — and the wine ain’t half bad either. Olive trees were interspersed with the vineyard’s grapevines to supply another of Bucher’s businesses. The Dry Creek Olive Company has its own tasting room, where patrons can get a look at the giant millstone that crushes the olives within 24 hours after they’re picked. Then, you adjourn to the tasting room to dunk bread in a variety of oils produced there, including some delicious versions infused with lime, Meyer lemon and Cara Cara orange. The family of winemaker Clay Mauritson, owner of Mauritson Wines, has been growing grapes in Northern Sonoma County for six generations. For most of those 140 years, they sold grapes to other wineries, but they are now using some of their bounty to create their own handcrafted wines. He had a wealth of knowledge about the intricacies of grape growing, which, in addition to the vagaries of the weather (over the past year, the area has been suffering from drought conditions) can be affected by myriad factors, including soil type, slope and elevation. One should keep in mind, he said, that wine is 100 percent fruit of the vine. No water, sugar or other ingredients are added. “Great wines,” he opined, “are made in the vineyard.”

The Mauritson family’s vineyards (above), which grew grapes for winemakers for 145 years, is now supplying them for their own wines; Bella Vineyards & Wine Caves (below): Wine tasting and Ultimate Tour Experience, where guests get to go up through the vineyards in a Swiss army vehicle. BELLA VINEYARDS & WINE CAVES

You can drive in to the wineries, catch a wine tour bus, ride a bike and even take a guided winery-hopping tour on a Segway. Most wineries have regular tastings for a nominal fee ($10 to $15) that is usually waived if you buy wine. And, if you find a wine you want to continue drinking after you return home, they offer wine clubs that will send bottles several times a year. But the attraction for me was discovering the incredible “personalities” of the wineries themselves. For example, the tiny father/daughter-run Viszlay Vineyards makes all its wines from grapes grown on the 10-acre estate. Its tasting room definitely did double duty as the operation’s workshop. The Lambert Bridge winery had a more sophisticated setup, offering an opportunity to enjoy a wine-paired candlelit meal surrounded by oak barrels. I enjoyed a sumptuous lunch there, but what I found most interesting about the winery was that most of the principals — the winemaker, sommelier and CEO — were all women. The wine tasting room at Bella Vineyards is actually a cave. Trattore Farms, owned by Tim Bucher, a serial entrepreneur who made his fortune in technology, sits atop

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Wineries

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DINE TIME

Healdsburg is a foodie’s delight, with several top-notch restaurants clustered in its compact downtown. The rich soils of the valleys around the town that make it ideal for growing grapes also yield an abundance of fruits, vegetables and livestock, which chefs creatively fashion into farm-fresh meals. To see an orchard in action, plan a visit to Dry Creek Peach & Produce to pick up some fresh-from-the-tree peaches or the peachy mix for creating a perfect Bellini. In addition to a standard menu, most of the upscale establishments also offer multi-course tastings with or without accompanying wine pairings. What a delight to be presented with plate after plate of perfectly prepared bites that add up to a memorable meal. In the casual ambience of Spoon Bar, Chef Louis Maldonado might send out a marblesized ball of big fin squid seasoned with

Accommodations persimmon vinegar and celery leaf, followed by mustard greens with pomelo and horseradish — followed by 11 other delightfully different tastes of California. From the Espelette-dusted Hawaiian Ahi Tataki to the Sticky Toffee Pudding, the Dry Creek Kitchen’s Chef Dustin Valette creates a tasting menu of six delicious courses, paired with California wines, many of them from within a hour’s drive of the restaurant. In his Mateo’s Cocina Latina, Chef Mateo Granados infuses his rigorously sourced Sonoma ingredients with flavors from his homeland in the Yucatan, creating dishes as creative as they are delicious. Now, if you’re the sort that would like to try your own hand at creating a culinary work of art, Relish Culinary Adventures offers classes that might cover canning jam, cooking with mushrooms or a demonstration by a local chef.

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Restaurants

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Activities

» DRY CREEK PEACH & PRODUCE

drycreekpeach.com » RELISH CULINARY ADVENTURES

relishculinary.com » SEGWAY OF HEALDSBURG

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Healdsburg is home to several quaint Above: Scenic Russian River. You’ll B&Bs, but for the ultimate in luxury find a romantic and and service, you’ll find the Honor intimate experience at Mansion tough to beat. It’s got a Healdsburg’s 13-room Honor Mansion. four-diamond rating from AAA, a Michelin recommendation and is on several of Trip Advisor’s “top” lists, including being named the No. 1 Romantic Hotel in the nation. The four-acre property has just 13 guest rooms and is located a very walkable mile away from the town’s center. Amenities also include a lap pool, putting green, tennis and basketball courts and spa services. In addition, there’s a gourmet breakfast buffet every morning, wine and appetizers in the afternoon and all-day cookies, candy, fruit, coffee and soda. The Grape Leaf Inn is a charming restored Victorian manse on a quiet street with 12 unique rooms, each named for a grape varietal. The full breakfasts are locally sourced, delicious and served on delightful, different place settings every day. There’s also a secret speakeasy that opens for happy hour — see if you can find it. Here’s another little secret. If you’ve bought a few — or a dozen — bottles of wine to bring home, but you’re leery about packing them in your luggage, services are available that will pick up, pack and send wine to your home. Ask your innkeeper. ec

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The Wonders of Coconut Oil FROM HAIR HEALER TO COOKING COMPANION TO MIND MENDER, IT SEEMS THERE’S NO OBSTACLE COCONUT OIL CAN’T CONQUER BY CHAY D. BAXLEY

o a quick Internet search for the phrase “coconut oil” and your browser will come alive with testimonials advocating for this New Age super-fruit. Add “organic” to the mix, and there’s a serious possibility your server might crash from information overload. All across the Internet, healthy-living junkies are going bonkers for this sweet, tropical oil — and their enthusiasm seems to be warranted. In recent years, the potential medicinal value of Fans of coconut oil has sparked coconut oil the interests of researchers are extolling virtue worldwide. Today, physi- its as an aid to cians and nutritionists alike both beauty are paying attention, and and health. many are encouraging their patients to seek out coconut oil’s healing properties for ailments ranging from acne to Alzheimer’s. Dr. Jessica Yoon, a dermatologist at Dermatology Associates of Tallahassee, might just be one of coconut oil’s biggest fans. An avid consumer herself, she recommends that the majority of her patients integrate coconut oil into their daily skin care routine — and that goes for her own children, too. “I want to keep people safe,” emphasized Yoon, a Harvard Medical School graduate. “I feel like all the lotions and soaps and all the junk out there with a ton of preservatives might be contributing to an increase in breast cancer, as well as other kinds of cancer. I want to get people away from that kind of stuff.” For Yoon, the anti-microbial properties naturally found in coconut oil make it an ideal match for patients suffering from acne, eczema, rosacea or any other dermal conditions where fragile skin is prevalent. Thanks to its high levels of lauric acid — a naturally occurring substance also found in breast

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milk — coconut oil’s healing properties are pretty remarkable. And unlike many other folklore remedies, there are tons of medical studies to prove it. “They’ve especially studied eczema patients,” Yoon said. “There was one study where they looked at eczema patients who often carried a lot of staph on their skin. They had them use the coconut oil for eight weeks, and the staph was gone in all but one of them. And I believe there were 50 patients. That’s pretty cool. There were no drugs (used), no toxic chemicals — just soothing coconut oil.” In an equally notable study conducted on mice, coconut oil was found to increase collagen levels during wound recovery, suggesting that it could potentially have a similar effect when it comes to the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles in humans. Whether or not people are following the

research, coconut oil’s popularity is certainly on the rise. According to Dolly Fields, the Whole Body Team Leader at Tallahassee’s Whole Foods Market, organic coconut oil is one of the few items in the store sold on three separate aisles — Supplements, Beauty and Cooking Oils. “It’s huge,” Fields marveled. “I would say it’s in the top five (items sold) on any day of the week.” From gentle makeup remover to hair treatment mask, coconut oil’s beauty-boosting benefits are abundant. Advocates assure that supple, brighter skin is just the beginning of the health-giving gains that incorporating coconut oil can bring. Some even believe the benefits may include (when cooking or ingesting organic, virgin coconut oil) the possibility of improved cognitive abilities.

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Deborah Merwin, a Florida-licensed nutritionist and the director of Wellness at the Feeling Good Health Food Store in Destin, warmed to the notion of organic coconut oil being an underappreciated warrior against dementia and Alzheimer’s disease when an enthusiastic customer cited the writings of Dr. Mary Newport, a neonatologist in the Tampa Bay area whose husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in the mid-2000s. “The customer who knew I was selling the oil basically as a cooking oil, or in my beauty section as a body lotion, wanted me to know that she had personally had two members of her family that had been diagnosed by medical professionals with having what she called ‘full-blown Alzheimer’s’ where they were gone, they were no longer cognitive at all,” Merwin recalled. “By using the coconut oil, based on Dr. Mary Newport’s recommendation, they had recovered. They were now living full lives again.” Merwin has passed on Newport’s literature to many of her clients — a number of whom have returned with impressive tales of recovery all their own. Newport’s theory is based on the medium-chain triglycerides (or MCTs) that give coconut oil its “fatty” composition. When consumed, they’re converted into ketones and utilized by the brain as an alternative fuel to glucose. Originally hypothesized in 2008, Newport’s take on coconut oil took a few years to gain traction within the medical community. By spring 2013, research regarding the power of coconut oil on the brain began at the University of South Florida’s Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute. It will be years before any quantitative data is released. But for less than a dollar an ounce, if the only drawback to making the coconut-oil cooking switch is consciously swapping new calories for old ones, there may be no time like the present. An easy substitute for olive oil and butter, coconut oil is ideal for sautéing meats, mixing a tad into a batch of oatmeal, drizzling a tablespoon into a green smoothie or even spreading across a hearty slice of whole grain toast. “There are a lot of ways to ingest it,” Merwin said. “I use it very regularly.” ec

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MODERN

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NISM goes coastal DESIGNER/ARCHITECT TAMERA MASSEY CONSIDERS UPDATING SEASIDE’S MOST ICONIC HOME A JOYOUS CHALLENGE BY LIS KING // PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACK GARDNER

Designer Tamera Massey uses art pieces, iconic midcentury furnishings and an array of wall hues to play up the home’s sculptural character and juxtapositioned forms and surfaces. EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

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All the world is a stage in the glassgirded living room, its proscenium formed by the 8-by 10-foot photo mural of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic highway of dreams, Route 66. Furniture references such mid20th century masters as Marcel Breuer, the Eames brothers and Le Corbusier. 180 Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2015

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t takes a stellar design pedigree for a house to merit a name and not just an address. Stairway to Heaven is such a house. Even in artfully quaint Seaside, its sleek lines and spiraling rooftop staircase reaching upward toward the sky attract much attention, practically making the house a travel destination. Adding to the home’s fame is its role in the 1996 movie “The Truman Show,” which is still referenced by a Rubeo Architects sign hanging out front. The cube-like, glass-walled house was built in 1996 by architect Alexander Gorlin for himself and his wife, Debra Solomon, a cartoonist and filmmaker. It’s a corner unit opening up diagonally to Ruskin Place, an eclectic block of shops, art galleries and unique residences surrounding a small, forested park. Although the home’s minimalism is a strict departure from Seaside’s

whimsical bungalows and wee versions of antebellum mansions, Gorlin feels that his design affirms the town planners’ vision of neighborliness. “The open stair leading to the living area above the ground-floor space recalls both the open loggias of Italian houses around a piazza and the classic brownstone stoop,” he explains. “It invites public interaction.” EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM April–May 2015

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And, of course, the staircase — though unconventional — serves as an observation tower, a building whimsy encouraged in Seaside. Soaring upward from a roof terrace, the staircase with its two platforms is the tallest tower in town and provides stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, the 80-acre community’s rooftops and the green expanse of forest stretching north. On the second floor, the open plan sweeps easily from dining area to kitchen to living space, with abundant natural light pouring in from floor-to-ceiling glass walls. The balcony off the living space offers views of the treelined park and lively shops of Ruskin Place. Quirky details add uncommon luxury to the house. They include a spiral staircase from the living room to the third-floor master bedroom and bath, white marble countertops in kitchen and baths, and a pebbled walk-in shower with a skylight. 182 April–May 2015

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REDOING AN ICON Stairway to Heaven now has a new owner, and Tamera Massey, an architect/designer with a studio practically next door, is the creator of the iconic home’s updated looks. “Living at Ruskin Place, my admiration for Stairway to Heaven grew in multitudes,” she says. “Every morning I’d wake up and relish its amazing details. Then the owner chose to relocate to a Dune lakefront home that I had just finished designing and furnishing, and I was handed the fabulous challenge of updating and furnishing the structure I had admired for so many years. “The new owner left it to me to do what I felt was right for the house,” Massey says. “That was, of course, to respect the original architect’s creation and treat the interior space as a dynamic venue for mid-century furnishings and contemporary art. Manipulating wall colors, I was able to create subtle depth and add sculptural character to the maze of forms and surfaces.”

The sculptural staircase (far left) soars through the living spaces to the roof and beyond. Marble tops counter in the stream-lined kitchen, and pebbles form the floor of the shower (far right). In the master bedroom, Massey uses cool blues for coastal character.

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Many of the furnishings that Massey selected are as iconic as the house itself. “I pulled from the influences of influential early and midcentury architects and designers,” she says. “For example, there are Eero Saarinen’s Tulip armchairs and pedestal table; Marcel Breuer’s Wassily chair; stools and chairs by Charles and Ray Eames; and lighting by Louis Poulsen.” ART SHOWCASE In addition, the house celebrates the work of such locally respected artists as Cheryl Troxell, Beau Bradberry and photographer Michael Granberry. But one element remains from the home’s original decor: the living-space curtains made of white parachute cloth. “The glass walls are a modernist’s dream,” says Massey, “but Alexander Gorlin felt they looked a little bare. The parachute curtains proved the answer. Their light weight was crucial, because the windows are nearly 20 feet tall. Many architects cringe at the idea of draperies, but these have a diaphanous quality that changes the room without compromising its clean lines.” On the ground floor, there is studio space with a mural hand-painted by Grayson Beach-based artist Justin Lyons. Part of the mural is a phrase that perfectly captures the essence of the house. “Change is Forward,” it pronounces. ec

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Gulf Breeze 1149 Gulf Breeze Pkwy 850.934.6200 The roof terrace and, of course, the platform that tops the staircase offer sweeping westward views across verdant Seaside and all the way to the Gulf. At night, the home’s huge windows glow, providing Ruskin Place passers-by intriguing glimpses of the town’s most unusual house. A mural (bottom right) hand-painted by area artist Justin Lyons highlights the studio on the ground floor. Art by local artists is a leading theme in all the spaces.

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Churchill Oaks

Southern Living Says Churchill Oaks is an ‘Inspired’ Place to Live BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

estled on 40 acres in the bend of Churchill Bayou and Hogtown Bayou on Choctawhatchee Bay sits Churchill Oaks, a new residential community whose development is led by Roy Sembera, a Louisiana businessman. The land was purchased nine years ago, just as the real estate market crashed. Sembera patiently waited for the right time and is now actively selling residential homes and lots in Churchill Oaks. Churchill Oaks Realty broker and project manager Tanner Peacock says it was worth the wait. “We were determined to sell a product, not a promise,” he said. Though you have to be what Peacock calls “a high achiever” to afford an address in Churchill Oaks, he says initial interest from both primary and secondary homeowners is “through the roof.” With more than half a mile of common-area access to South Walton’s ultimate playground, Choctawhatchee Bay, Churchill Oaks appeals to homebuyers seeking the natural beauty of a coastal community with the added value of new construction. For Peacock, in addition to the mileage of waterfront property, the quality of architecture sets it apart. “It’s one of the reasons Southern Living chose us as a Southern Living Inspired Community,” he said. “The reality is so many communities in our area are rental communities. I guess when 186 April–May 2015

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Southern Living learned we were setting out to develop a highend, rental-restricted neighborhood with fine architecture, they were all over us.” According to aspiring architect Sari Imber, as reported in TheDailySouth.com, an inspired community “embodies timeless design, planning and construction principles that never go out of style.” All home sites in Churchill Oaks feature a minimum of 2,600 square feet, water views and are large enough to accommodate courtyards, outdoor kitchens and gardens so each home connects with its natural setting. It’s an environment well suited for the community’s Colonial and Low-Country architecture, which accentuates the style and grandeur of the South. Churchill Oaks is thoughtfully designed around Southern magnolias, live oaks and longleaf pines, leaving nearly half of the property as untouched green space. Churchill Oaks centers around a bayside clubhouse and pool designed by South Walton-based Savoie Architects, which is one of a handful of approved architectural firms and builders. Peacock says the success of the project, which he views as the “finest amenity on the coast,” may be that it answered to no budget and no timeline. “I think the fact that this An upscale bay front clubhouse and pool designed property was not developed by a by South Walton-based professional developer is exactly Savoie Architects is the centerpiece of Churchill Oaks. why it turned out so nicely,” he

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said. Peacock added that Sembera is a stickler who took an “end This custom residence (above and below) user approach to every detail” in designed by Savoie Churchill Oaks. Architects is a truly The community is about imlivable home with vaulted ceilings, four mersing in the good life, and in large bedrooms that Florida that includes soaking open to porches, in the sunshine. The deep, proa large travertine courtyard with built-in tected waters of Choctawhatchee grill, fountain, pool, Bay and Hogtown Bayou provide and fireplace, along with an impressive plenty of opportunities for boatmother-in-law suite ing, watersports and fishing. Topon the third floor with sail Hill Preserve State Park puts access via stairs or commercial elevator. prime sugar-sand beach access less than five miles away. For golfers, there are no less than a dozen championship courses within 15 miles. Name-brand designer shopping and a range of casual to upscale dining options are nearby as well. Churchill Oaks currently has fewer than 95 home sites divided into four enclave neighborhood communities: Bay Front, Bayou Front, Lake Front and Parkside. Lots in Parkside have sold for as low as $215,000, while Bayfront and Bayou-front lots are listed at $800,000. A newly constructed home in Parkside is listed for $1.25 million. It is a 3,325-square-foot, four-bedroom French Colonial home built by Davis Dunn Construction featuring an open floor plan, downstairs master suite and functional outdoor living space. The custom home has a double-hip roof and a secondfloor balcony that cantilevers over the brick veranda with beautiful wood brackets, stately brick columns and French doors. A model home located next to the clubhouse, which will likely be a Southern Living Idea House when completed, is listed at $3.2 million. Inspired indeed. ec

RENDERINGS COURTESY CHURCHILL OAKS

Unsightly pool deck with trip hazards

Do you know an outstanDing woman Business LeaDer? 850 — The Business Magazine of Northwest Florida is looking for your help in recognizing women in our region who have demonstrated outstanding leadership skills in their businesses and communities.

Nominations are now open at 850businessmagazine.com

Ten women will be selected to receive the 2015 Pinnacle Award — women of character and integrity, our leaders, mentors and community servants. These honorees will be profiled in the 2015 October/November issue of 850. Nominees must be a private sector business owner, CEO, primary manager or top executive in their companies. Nominees must have: 1) demonstrated professional excellence and outstanding leadership in her business or profession; 2) actively participated in civic and/ or business-related organizations; 3) served as a mentor to others. Nominations must be received by April 15, 2015

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