The Lakelander - Issue 86

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STUNNING STYLE CAPTIVATING BLOOMS THE CASE FOR PREMARITAL COUNSELING BUT FIRST, BRUNCH WHAT’S HOT AND WHAT’S NOT

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Caring just for you.

Worried about fitting an appointment into your busy schedule? Being ready for you is one of our top priorities.

With nearly 20 locations and more than 270 providers, Lakeland Regional Health makes booking visits easy.

Find the right provider at myLRH.org/Care or call 863.284.5000 to make an appointment.

Your Health. Our Promise. myLRH.org/Care I S S UE 8 5

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it ’s all in the details.

Your story is awesome. And the wedding was beyond your wildest dreams. Let us celebrate this amazing time in your life by sharing a wide variety of options to furnish your home - quality furniture, designed to delight, and crafted to last. Just like your marriage.

www.badcock.com

Auburndale 521 Hughes Rd. (863) 967-6602

Eagle Lake 1515 Hwy. 17 N. (863) 294-7749

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Bartow 1350 N. Broadway (US 98) (863) 533-1611

Frostproof 500 N. Scenic Hwy. (863) 635-2645

Here’s to your happily ever after.

Ft. Meade 1401 Hwy. 17 N. (863) 285-9757

Lakeland - Christina 6100 S. Florida Ave. (863) 646-2921

Lakeland - Lake Gibson 6625 US 98 North (863) 858-3866

Lake Wales 126 Hwy. 60 W. (863) 676-6515

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Haines City 35495 Hwy. 27 (863) 422-3144

Lakeland - Combee 1225 N. Combee Rd. (863) 665-3111

Lakeland - North 1409 N. Florida Ave. (863) 682-8107

Winter Haven North 1399 6th St. NW (863) 251-2039

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Love

has no age limit.

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Your lifestyle should be limitless, too.

For some, living without limits means pursuing passions or making friends.

For residents Pat and Tacy, it means an exciting new chapter of falling in love.

Despite their busy schedules, they still have plenty of time for one another.

In fact, they courted for a year prior to Pat popping the question in September.

Now, they’re simply enjoying life together until they begin wedding planning – and we’re full of joy knowing they found happily ever after at The Estates.

“We’re engaged!“ discover all there is to love.

Call us today to schedule a personal visit.

863-588-7284

UNCOMPROMISED RETIREMENT LIVING

Independent Living | Assisted Living | Skilled Nursing Care | Rehabilitation 1001 Carpenters Way | Lakeland, FL 33809 | EstatesAtCarpenters.com Like Us on I S S UE 8 5

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OUR FAMILY TAKING CARE OF YOUR FAMILY “At Agnini Dental we take great pride in putting our patients’ needs first. One of the things I love most is how we treat each patient with care and compassion. Every member of our team works tirelessly to ensure our patients receive the highest quality of dental care in a relaxing and family oriented environment. I enjoy being part of a community focused office and developing relationships with our patients. We would be honored to work with you and your family to help you achieve your dental dreams.”

- Dr. Sarah

South Lakeland Office

North Lakeland Office

2410 S. Florida Avenue Lakeland, FL 33803 863-682-1500

1805 Lakeland Hills Blvd.

Lakeland, FL 33805 863-682-1500

AgniniDental.com We accept CareCredit

ISSUE 86

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Wedding Party Style Look Book What would it look like if we focused on the style— not of the bride and groom, but of the wedding party­—and connected with a younger demographic like never before? Flip on to find out.

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CONTENTS

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Captivating Blooms Flowers bring life to a bridal ceremony, and locals don’t have to go far to find stunning floral arrangements. We feature three spots with distinctive offerings that can help a couple’s big day blossom with color.

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I S S UE ISS 8U 5 E 83

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CONTENTS

86

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MASTHEAD

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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THE BUZZ

Real Lakeland Weddings

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CONTRIBUTORS

Lakeland photographers capturing the lives of local couples in recognizable spots.

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METRO

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WEDDING STYLE GUIDE

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CAPTIVATING BLOOMS

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REAL LAKELAND WEDDINGS

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BUT FIRST, BRUNCH

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HISTORY

100 But First, Brunch

The wedding is over, but friends and family are still in town the morning after. Take a delicious tour through some of Lakeland’s best spots to eat, drink and laugh for a memorable brunch.

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Buick Lakela LUXURY REDEFINED IS COMPLIMENTARY. CONFIDENT. CONVENIENT.

CADILLAC LAKELAND CadillacLakeland.com

LOCATION 5210 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

SALES 863.646.5053 Mon-Fri 8am-7pm Sat 9am-6pm

SERVICE 863.614.1599 Mon-Fri 7am-6pm Sat 8am-3pm

Buick Lakeland

5210 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33813 BuickLakeland.com

863·593·8630

©2016 General Motors. All Rights Reserved. Cadillac®

A BUYER’S BEST FRIEND SubaruLakeland.com

|

5212 S Florida Ave Lakeland, FL 33813

Sales: 855.835.2277 Service: 844.855.7013 Parts: 888.431.0390

AUTO ACCIDENT?

ISSUE 86

PUBLISHER

ADVERTISING

CREATIVE

Curt Patterson

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Curt Patterson | 863.409.2449

Jon Sierra

ADVERTISING SALES

Briana Chenot

Isaac Vargas | 407.619.3508

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jason Jacobs | 863.606.8785

Dan Austin

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Jason Jacobs

EDITOR

For exceptional Chiropractic Care after a vehicle accident, contact Dr. Abraham and the professional team at New Hope Chiropractic in the Lake Miriam Publix Plaza.

D ON ’ T I G N OR E YO UR INJ URIES.

We would love to evaluate and treat you!

RJ Walters

Paul Bostrom

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jon Sierra

EDITORIAL

CIRCULATION

DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCER

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Jordan Randall

Jason Jacobs

VP, FINANCE

CONTRIBUTORS

Deb Patterson

Diego De Jesus

GENERAL COUNSEL Ted W. Weeks IV

Jenna MacFarlane Julianne Waller

The Lakelander is published 12 times annually by Patterson Jacobs Media Group, P.O. Box 41, Lakeland, FL 33802. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission of The Lakelander is prohibited. The Lakelander is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions.

“ Trust in th e Lord with all your h ear t , an d lean n ot on your own un derstan din g. In all your ways a ckn owledge Him, an d He will direc t your paths.” Proverbs 3:5- 6

CONTACT Dr. Abraham New Hope Chiropractic

Lakelander Media, P.O. Box 41, Lakeland, FL 33802 Customer Service: 863.701.2707 • thelakelander.com

Phone: (863) 682-1170 4788 S. Florida Ave. Lakeland, FL 33803

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Devoted to a Lifetime of Good Health From the day you were born to your wedding day and every day after,

Watson Clinic is your trusted healthcare provider through every phase of your life.

For over 80 years, our specialists have empowered you to embrace the best version of yourself, and live each moment to its fullest.

When you’re committed to your patients, it shows.

Serving the Healthcare Needs of Central Florida Since 1941 863-680-7000 | WatsonClinic.com |

Lakelander-Back-Cover #86Wedding.indd 1

2/21/23 4:18 PM

When her choice matters most

we are here to help Empowering Women with Medical Services, Options and Compassionate Support

YourChoiceLakeland.com 1234 E. Lime St Lakeland 33801 863-683-2341

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A TEACHER CALLED “REAL LOVE”

Dadcula.

Rad Dad. Best Dad in the World Hands Down (with varying size handprints framing the words).

Each one of those phrases are printed on T-shirts my wife, Heather, has gifted me the past several years.

Many years earlier, she was determined to find the perfect gift for my birthday so she acknowledged my love for java by getting me a “fancy” coffee maker, at least three times as expensive as the one I already had.

The problem (in my mind) was we had agreed that she wouldn’t spend more than $50, because as much as I like a nice gift, I like a healthy budget even better.

When I opened the coffee maker, I looked at the box, looked up at her, and brusquely said, “Why did you get me this? You know I didn’t want you to spend a lot of money.”

After she took a moment to digest my surprising response she remarked, “I didn’t think you would react that way, and plus your mom chipped in so I didn’t go over the budget.”

Ouch. The best and worst of navigating marriage in one fell swoop; a well intentioned, thoughtful gift from a

spouse received with the excitement of a college student finding out they have an extra exam on finals week.

Today, almost 15 years after saying “I Do” to my devoted and spirited browned-eyed love, my kids make me the most incredible handmade gifts and Heather finds ways to make me feel special that don’t cost a lot. I also have learned to appreciate every gift even if the money could have been used elsewhere because of the thought and intent behind them.

Marriage is not simply a contract or the peak of an emerging love story, it is a permanent agreement to figure out life together with the other person’s best interests above yours. That is real love, one that reflects the love of God. In this issue we showcase stunning trendy fashion looks and put you up close with gorgeous decor and floral arrangements. We also share real photos of real Lakelanders who have made lifelong commitments to each other, and we highlight the benefits of premarital counseling that can help take a magical day and make it the start of a healthy, purposeful marriage. When romance blooms, it’s exciting, but when real love grows deep roots it is transformational.

Some days marriage is about offering thoughtful gifts, every day is an opportunity to learn from your mistakes and we hope you offer your love to this magazine by keeping your eyes glued to it.

RJ Walters EDITOR

TH E L A KE L A N DE R

Life moves quickly. It's important to take time out for yourself, and conquer your goals by looking and feeling your best.

Watson Clinic Women's Center board-certified Plastic Surgeon,

DR. FAEZA KAZMIER will help you look as youthful as you feel with a range of natural looking enhancement options including surgical and nonsurgical treatments.

• Facial Rejuvenation (Facelifts, Eyelifts and

Minimally Invasive Browlifts)

• Breast enlargement, breast implant revision,

lifts and reductions

• Drain free tummy tucks and liposuction • Daxxify , BOTOX®, Dysport®, Kybella® for unwanted TM

fat, and fillers such as Restylane®, Juvéderm®, Voluma® and RHA for the face and hands

Physician assistant Chalsey Lockhart, PA works alongside Dr. Kazmier to provide Clear + Brilliant® Touch Laser treatments, as well as Sciton® and Candela® Gentlemax Pro lasers for hair removal, and treatment of brown spots & spider veins. She also offers injectables including Daxxify , BOTOX®, Dysport® and fillers.

TM

863-680-7676

Watson Clinic Women’s Center • 1420 Lakeland Hills Blvd. • Suite B • Lakeland • WatsonClinic.com/Kazmier

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Model Shown

THE BUZZ COMMENTS FROM LAKELANDERS

Picked up the newest edition of The Lakelander

✨

It's neat to see our Selling Lakeland group featured in the front few pages!

♥

We may not have our own reality TV show, but we do share a strong passion and hustle with each of our real estate businesses and in helping our clients with achieving their real estate goals and homeownership dreams.

📷Cari Connell Vaughn

#sellinglakeland #lakelandrealtors @Team Hubbert, Realtors • Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Fine Living | FB 24

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CONTRIBUTORS JENNA MACFARLANE Hailing from Sarasota, Jenna Macfarlane is a Southeastern University graduate who fell in love with Lakeland when she arrived. Jenna earned a degree in communications and is passionate about her craft; she believes the highest form of art is hope and seeks to communicate it in every piece she writes.

She also loves to do other things, too: she really likes to go to the beach early in the morning, listen to music on long drives, and go to local shows. @jenna_macfarlane

PAUL BOSTROM Paul is a commercial and editorial photographer based in Lakeland. His happy place is in the studio, snacks on deck, doing meticulous stuff nobody wants to do. If you're still reading this, send him a picture of your dog on Instagram—because that would be hilarious and make his day. paulbostrom.com | @paulbostrom

JULIANNE WALLER Julianne graduated from The University of Tampa with a degree in writing.

She currently works as a freelance writer for The Lakelander and other publications.

Outside of journalism and creative writing, Julianne is passionate about reading, travel, art and spending time with friends and family. She adores her two beautiful cats!

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L I V E YO U R PA S S I O N HIGHLIFE AU TO M AT I C CO S C

1 3 1 0 L A K E S I D E V I L L AG E C I R C L E L A K E L A N D, F L 3 3 8 0 3 (8 6 3) 2 2 6 - 4 4 0 0

W R I T T E N BY JULIA NNE WA LLER DES IGNED BY BRIA NA CHENOT

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edding party gifts aren’t just a thank you for being in the wedding–they’re a thank you for so many years of friendship, support and unconditional love. Your wedding party contains the most important people in your life, who have been with you through the best and worst of times; and now, they get to stand with you on the happiest day of your life. What better way to honor them than with a thoughtful gift?

Since every bridesmaid and groomsman is different, this list has something for everyone–and every budget. Whether you’re looking for classic, unique, or truly one-of-a-kind, these gifts feature a blend of online finds and Lakeland’s best picks.

FOR THE BRIDES Custom Poems

By Orange Blossom Poems ($30 - $50)

If you’re looking for a super unique gift for your bridesmaids or maid of honor, show them how much they mean to you with a custom poem! This one of a kind gift will be remembered by your bridal party forever— and owner Diana ÁlvarezHughes even offers framing options to really make this gift shine.

Tote Bags with Personalization Option

By Minted ($36 - $79)

These incredibly cute tote bags appeal to a wide range of budgets, as well as individual styles. For $15 more, you can add your bridal party’s names to each bag; but even without the customization, these totes are a chic and practical gift that every bridesmaid would love!

Accessories

By East of These ($12 - $28)

Practical, cute, and affordable—what’s not to love? East of These headbands are ethically sourced and locally made, with a variety of unique patterns for every bridesmaid. If you’re not into headbands, this shop also has head wraps, oversized scrunchies, bows and more!

Custom Birthstone + Initial Bracelet By vivominimalist on Etsy ($24.50+)

Face Masks The greatest gifts make the receiver feel important—and this ultra-personalized gift is sure to do so! These chic bracelets are affordable and thoughtful; and if this particular design isn’t your cup of tea, there are tons of other options available on Etsy.

Charcuterie Board

By Scout & Tag ($64.95)

Scout & Tag sells tons of gorgeous home design pieces, but this wooden charcuterie board is a showstopper. This gift gives every bridesmaid an effortlessly classy showpiece for parties and holiday get-togethers! If you don’t love engraved pieces, this shop also has a beautiful rustic-chic wooden serving tray.

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By Rafa Natural ($20) My personal pick from Rafa is their exfoliating, hydrating Charcoal Creme Masque­— but Rafa Natural is a haven for bridesmaid gifts! This shop is a great find for budgets of all sizes.

Soaps, candles, and face masks are perfect for smaller budgets; or if you’re going all out, this shop does beautiful gift bundles for $65 and up!

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Customized Flask

By Gaines Jewelers ($31) You can’t go wrong with a flask; and this timeless design includes a customization option to make every groomsman feel special. The best part of this gift? It’s something your wedding party can use for years after the big day!

12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

By Aberfeldy Highland ($41)

You can’t get more classic than whisky, and this scotch is the perfect upscale gift for your wedding party. Depending on your budget, this could work as a stand-out gift for your best man, or for every groomsman! This smooth highlands whiskey can be found at ABC Liquor on South Florida Avenue.

Personalized Leather Coffee Mug

By AtelierCorvus on Etsy ($26)

A lot of popular groomsmen gifts revolve around alcohol—but drinking isn’t for everybody. These outdoorsy enamel personalized coffee mugs are sure to impress every groomsman; and they’re useful in everyday life!

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Cigars From Cigar Life ($5.63+)

Cigars are a gift that never go out of style—and the best part is, the cost is up to you! At Cigar Life in South Lakeland, AJ Fernandez cigars go as low as $5.63 per cigar, where Arturo Fuente can sell for as much as $300. No matter how much you spend, this present is perfect to give at a bachelor party; it’s a fun gift and an experience rolled into one!

Super Shaving Soap & Muscle Relief Balm

By Rafa Natural ($8, $28) Rafa’s super shaving soap is the perfect affordable gift for every man! With all-natural ingredients that soothe and moisturize sensitive or irritated skin, this soap makes razor burn a thing of the past–and if you have a little more to spend, Rafa’s Muscle Relief Balm relieves inflammation for postworkout soreness and stress relief.

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Handmade Wooden Cutting Board

By SquareEdgeWoodcraft on Etsy ($49+)

If you have groomsmen that like to cook, this cutting board is both beautiful and practical.

Lakeland-based Etsy owner George Lindsay hand crafts each cutting board from local sawmills and lumber yards. It comes in multiple sizes and even has a customizable option for a personalized touch!

TH E L A KE L A N DE R

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Wisdom from local experts who make the case for premarital counseling WRITTEN BY RJ WALTERS DESIGNED BY BRIANA CHENOT

ho is premarital counseling for?

Anyone who comes from a family, has conversations with people they love, engages with money and/or plans on having sex, according to Pastor Tim Rice, who has been helping local couples prepare for marriage for nearly three decades.

“I wouldn't say you're gonna die without it, but you're making one of the most emotionally significant commitments that you can possibly enter into. And…nobody gets married hoping I get divorced, right?” Rice said. “So with the failure rates being so high, the failure costs being so high, it seems like that it's a smart idea to at least check on the front side.”

The failure rates he is referring to are that nearly half of all marriages end in divorce, including 41 percent of first marriages, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Rice has been married to his wife, Julie, for more than 37 years, and the Rice’s helped plant Trinity Presbyterian Church in 1997.

Every couple he marries is required to go through what he calls “six conversations” with him prior to the wedding day, and he also

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counsels other couples, both Christians and non-Christians.

Kolby Nance is also passionate about helping couples set healthy expectations before they say “I Do,” and he is the founder of and co-owner of Porter’s Sound Counseling with Jenica Timmes.

Porter’s Sound therapists usually meet with engaged couples four to eight times and utilize a Biblical worldview to help couples work through vital conversations about value systems, family background, communication styles and more.

Kolby said he and his wife Meggie, also a licensed therapist, are confident that premarital counseling helps couples

move from the Hallmark card or fairytale of engagement into a more realistic understanding of what the highs, lows, laughs and conflicts of everyday life will be like.

“If you are creating a relationship where these conversations are welcomed, where conflict is welcomed, where you're setting a tone that we are committed to working through difficult things—I think good premarital counseling is gonna try to begin to give you an experience of that,” he said.

Rice, a Lakeland mainstay for nearly 40 years whose ministry career includes starting the youth ministry at First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland, is staunch on three rules that he has for all couples he converses with prior to marriage.

Everything stays here.

It's only as valuable as you are honest. If you don't tell me the truth, I can't help you.

Cease and desist in any sexual activity until the wedding so you can create a season of building trust.

Trust. That word is at the heart of everything Rice teaches, and he points to God’s example to mankind as a foundational example.

“I would say I bet you are (interested in a trustworthy partner) because it's what I can measure by what you don't want to happen.

You don't wanna be lied to, you don't wanna be abused, you don't want your partner to cheat on you, you don't want your partner to manipulate you and take you for all your money,” he said.

“What God in Christ has delivered to us is the most amazing, the most trustworthy, the most steadfast, the most honest, the most generous, the most intimately faithful. If that's what He has delivered to me, then doesn't it make sense that…I would do that to my neighbor and my first neighbor being my spouse?”

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“A LWAYS H AVE A CU R I O S I TY THAT ’S FILLED WITH COMPASSION…VERSUS CONFUSION THAT LEADS TO CONTEMPT.” Nance said it is important to spend ample time in premarital counseling unpacking each partner's family of origin. He notes it important to ask questions like: “How did you learn close relationships in your family?”

“Was there affection?”

“Was there openness?”

“How were emotions handled in your home?”

“All of that’s kind of this pre-programming, this loading if you will, that you’re going to carry into your marriage,” he said.

One topic most counselors—including Rice and the professionals at Porter’s Sound— spend a lot of time on in premarital counseling is conflict resolution.

Rice said effective conflict resolution is learning to love through the differences. He notes that not all conflicts—like where to go for dinner in the middle of week—are detrimental, but small quarrels can become larger fights and turn into regrettable actions. He said it is vitally important for people to be quick to forgive others because we are all offenders throughout our lives.

He points to an often-quoted parable in Scripture, from Matthew 18, where Jesus talks about a servant who was forgiven his debt of 10,000 talents, only to demand repayment from someone who owed him 100 denari.

“If you do the percentages…you get so many decimal points, you're getting at two millionths of 1% worth of the forgiven debt,” Rice said.

“So if Jesus says from the heart, ‘Forgive one another,’ how do I love well in conflict?”

Nance concurs with Rice’s perspective, and he

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likes to weave in evidence-based solutions from people like Dr. Sue Johnson and organizations like the Gottman Institute to share practical strategies.

When it comes to de-escalating conflict, Nance quotes something his wife often says: “Always have a curiosity that’s filled with compassion…versus confusion that leads to contempt.”

He said couples who tend to have success navigating conflicts are ones where both parties seek to understand instead of demand to be understood.

“If you can seek to understand the impact of whatever was going on… whether it was something you said or something you did, if you can seek to understand what the impact was—in the economy of love, it’s far more important.”

When discussing the ingredients of a healthy, life-long marriage, Rice said humility is the good ingredient and contempt is a frightening ingredient that can be destructive because one spouse exalts themselves above the other.

At Porter’s Sound, the organization centers around the dichotomy of dignity and depravity in all humans. “[In marriage] we see how we bring hurt to someone, and then at the same time, we can see how powerfully we can actually play a redemptive role in somebody’s story,” Nance said.

Even as experts in the field of marriage counseling, Rice and Nance chuckle at the notion that they have it all figured out.

Rice said life is so busy at times that he and his wife have to make sure they schedule time together, and Nance said that he and his wife have disagreements that “look really ordinary,” but in their 13-plus years of marriage they have bonded over the fact they are each fiercely committed to the good of the other person.

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Behind the Lens with

Dan Austin The Lakelander

Dan Austin has been producing stunning photos for The Lakelander as long as the magazine has been around—for more than a decade. He brings a well-trained eye, a love for people and a strong collaborative spirit to the table to plan and execute high level shoots of some of the brightest and finest people, businesses, organizations and products in our community. Lakelander Creative Director, and one of Dan’s best friends and colleagues, Jon Sierra recently sat down with Dan after the two partnered to create this issue’s featured style spread

The Lakelander

Dan, your work is super diverse and ranges from different styles and different aesthetics. How do you work with your clients? How do you start the process and find that idea that is best for what they're envisioning?

Dan

I think what’s most important is the relationship with the client. I always try to open up with a conversation to get to know the client and know what they are looking for—and a lot of times they don't know what they're looking for, so I have to kind of fill in the blanks. What helps for me is that growing up I was just kind of naturally drawn to style and fashion and framing pictures.

The Lakelander

You have a really definitive style. If I saw a photo and compared it to another person, I would know it was you all day.

I feel like you've taken time to carve out your style from job to job, even as different as they may be. How do you keep that cohesiveness?

Dan

I didn’t know I did. [laughs] I kind of organically just know what I want. And this ties back to the question before…the relationship with the client, it all ties into it because when you talk to them—whether it's a headshot or it's an album cover or it's an editorial piece or it's a commercial piece—I just always take it back to what would I want to see? I always want someone to feel their best and look their best. I've always naturally just been able to listen and make that happen.

A quote that I live by is “Know who you are and deliver it at all times.” It's something that I take with me everytime I step into a new project.

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It's a collaborative effort. You have to talk about every detail from lighting to makeup. You want to make sure every angle is covered even when it's not your client's strength. This is why having a core network is important.

I think the common thread that you might see in my pictures is that I always try to push for some kind of an emotion out of people, more than what they would usually give. Whether it's the contrast, the color, the lighting that I'm working with, the shape of the model, the way their hands are falling, the way they're posed, their hair—it's all important.

The Lakelander

Another one of those common threads that I've seen is your high standard for fashion. Where does the inspiration come from?

Dan

I was a teenager in the late 90s, and I was always drawn to different styles of photography. David LaChappelle's work in Rolling Stone magazine always stood out to me. Annie Leibovitz work in Vanity Fair. Bruce Weber's raw Abercrombie and Fitch ads. I would take my mom's fashion magazines and cut them up and make collages and mood boards for future inspiration. Automatically being drawn to these things it was only a matter of time before I got my first camera and starting creating images of my own.

The Lakelander

Your attention to detail is really highlighted when you style a shoot because every detail matters when it comes to fashion. You take a lot of time to make the right decision in that regard. Tell me a little bit about why details are important to you.

Dan

I have been doing portrait photography for 20 years.

Since I was a child, the details have mattered to me.

I would recolor my Disney story books to match the vibrance of what I saw in the movie. If I didn't think they matched what was on TV, I would take crayons and correct the colors. I've always had an eye for that.

When you frame up your shot you already can tell in your head where you want to go. It's probably similar to singing a song before you sing it—you know how you want to sing it and you know what it needs to sound like.

You may not sing it right the first time, and you may need to just do it a section at a time, but once you get the whole song together, you're like, yeah, that's it. It's the same feeling.

Some of my favorite projects have been when I collaborate with other artists, art directors, lighting technicians, and fellow photographers. It's not just about collaborating with the clients to get a great product. Larger scale projects need more people on set, more hands, more eyes on the details. I definitely think that is something unique that we have here in Lakeland—great opportunities to collaborate and work with other local artists.

danaustinphotography.com @danaustinphoto

hen’s the last time you participated in a “dollar dance” at a wedding?

The advent of apps like Venmo and CashApp would make it easier than ever to pad a new couple’s bank account.

And have you been alive long enough to remember when it was the unwritten rule to sit on the left side of the aisle if you were with the bride’s family and the right side if you were with the groom’s family?

The truth about weddings is some traditions are as long-standing as the garter toss, but others come and go as quickly as couples’ big days themselves.

If you are playing a game of Family Feud, or you find yourself in the planning stages of an upcoming wedding, here are some highlights and lowlights to familiarize yourself with, tying in several nods to the region of the country we call home.

WRIT TEN BY RJ WALTERS DESIGNED BY BRIANA CHENOT

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A N I N V I T I N G S PAC E F O R Y O U R M O S T

MEMORABLE MOMENTS Centrally located in historic downtown Lakeland, Banquet61 is a one-of-a-kind meeting space and event venue. Honored to be chosen for the most intimate celebrations and important meetings, our venue is equipped with state of the art sound systems, visual monitors and lighting.

Professional banquet staff and award-winning executive chefs make for an extraordinary culinary experience fit for the most special occasions.

BANQUET61.COM 863-404-6161 215 Main St. Lakeland, FL 33801

SUSTAINABLE WEDDINGS According to a survey by The Knot, 66% of couples are incorporating eco-friendly elements in their weddings. That includes donating leftover food, choosing environmentally-friendly venues, and using compostable dinnerware. It also extends to people opting for more vintage dresses, rented suits and clothing made out of eco-friendly fabrics that reduces the environmental impact.

BOLD COLORS Wedding planners will tell you that modern couples love bright and bold hues, so move over pastels! The most popular palettes are metallics like gold, silver and bronze, as well as a variety of shades of green. Also on the up-and-up are hot pinks, deep purples, and bright blues.

WHISKEY BARS, SWEET TEA, AND LEMONADE It’s become on-point in the South now to provide guests curated selections of bourbons and whiskeys to enjoy. On the non-alcoholic side, couples are being extra sweet by showcasing a variety of flavors of lemonade and sweet tea to keep people refreshed.

TECHNOLOGY From digital guestbooks to live streaming ceremonies, tech-savvy couples are incorporating technology in a variety of ways to enhance the experience, so even Grandma can join in on the fun. In a survey by WeddingWire, 43% of couples said they would consider live streaming their ceremony for loved ones who can't attend.

MICRO WEDDINGS Due to the pandemic, smaller weddings with fewer guests have become more popular, and couples are embracing the trend of having weddings of 50 or less guests. Micro weddings are intimate, personalized, and often more affordable, making them a great option for couples who want to keep things simple but still want some of that trademark Southern charm—or whatever their preferred style is.

OUTDOOR WEDDINGS We have the weather and scenery that people travel from around the world to enjoy, so it’s not surprising that outdoor weddings have cemented themselves as a primary option for Floridians.

Gardens, vineyards, farms and historic homes are some of the most popular venues.

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OVERSIZED WEDDING PARTIES Southern hospitality is all about making everyone feel at home, but that doesn't mean it’s a requirement to have a big wedding party to pull that off. The Knot estimates the average wedding party is around four people on either side for modern American weddings. Smaller, more intimate wedding parties are becoming the norm to keep the focus on the couple and their love.

FORMAL SIT-DOWN DINNERS The South is known for its comfort food, so it's no surprise that casual dining options like food trucks, grazing tables and family-style meals are gaining popularity for a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere that's still finger-lickin'' good.

A WEDDING HASHTAG The artist formerly known as “pound sign” has long ago been eclipsed, but it appears his replacement has lost steam with engaged couples. The Knot estimates that over the last five years distinctive wedding hashtags to represent a couple’s big day have decreased nearly 25%, and only about 1 in 4 couples use that kind of social trademark.

TRADITIONAL WEDDING FAVORS As mentioned before, we believe in hospitality, so generic wedding favors like Jordan almonds or plastic trinkets just don’t cut it.

Personalized gifts that reflect your Southern hospitality, like local food or drink, handmade items, or charitable donations, are becoming increasingly popular.

BORING DESSERTS According to WeddingWire's 2022 Wedding Report, more couples are embracing unique dessert options like donut walls, s'mores stations, and dessert bars. Classic wedding cakes are just that—classic—which means there will likely always be a market for them, and they are a distinctive part of wedding culture, but the approach to sweets at weddings is more multi-tiered than ever before.

ST RT GY A UU SIN WED DAI N GI N ST L EB G DE S S

Weddings are a place where personality, style and culture raise a glass to each other.

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WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JON SIERRA PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAN AUSTIN

very year we push the limits to showcase a one-of-akind wedding feature to share with Lakelanders. Last year we hosted a mock wedding at Bonnet Springs Park before it opened. This year, we posed the question: "What would it look like if we focused on the style—not of the bride and groom, but of the wedding party­—and connected with a younger demographic like never before?"

The result is a collection of shots that express individuality, have a certain 90's pop flair to them and encompass how fun and looking your best can be the perfect couple when saying "Yes" to the next wedding RSVP you receive.

WEDDING STYLE GUIDE 50

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REB EL B RID ES MAID

Karissa Bradford Blue Corset Dress - GB Satin Platform Pumps - Versace Topaz ring - Vintage

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WEDDING STYLE GUIDE

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WEDDING STYLE GUIDE

T HE

DE TAI LS

Studio: Refine Studios Florals: Uli & Co| @uli&co Photographer: Dan Austin | @danaustinphoto Style: Dan Austin | @danaustinphoto Jon Sierra | @jonsierra Maria Swann | @stylishlyyou Hair + Makeup: Venue Salon Patricia Uiterwyk | @browwhispererlakeland Kayla Judy | @kaylajaveda Hailey Elliott | @hailxrosehair Alex Bush | @alexataveda Jacquelyn Edwards | @jackie_venuesalon Aveda Institute Brandon Kaira Loyola Iris Elicier Apellanis Belinda Nicole | @beautiesbybelinda Models: Karissa Bradford | @the_lovewitch__ Alex Solano | @alexxander444 Jamaris "Jay" Glanton | @alienj.pro Brie Nance | @brievnance Lizi Revishvili | @lizi.revishvili

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WEDDING FLORALS

WRITTEN BY RJ WALTERS DESIGNED BY JON SIERRA PHOTOGRAPHED BY PAUL BOSTROM

lowers bring life to a bridal ceremony.

They signify new beginnings, shared celebration and dreams in bloom.

At many weddings, flowers are the only decorations necessary to set the tone for the day. They bring the bride’s color palette, desired mood and overall vision together in harmony.

Floral arrangements are elegant and meaningful.

They are also time-consuming and take an artistic hand to craft well. Luckily, Lakelanders have a variety of wonderful options to consider at any stage in the wedding planning process.

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@uli.and.co uliandco@gmail.com

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“Flowers are at the heart of the wedding experience. They bring everything together," Julie says.

U

One of her favorite trends right now is creating long tabletop floral “runners,” which seemingly emulate long gardens across a table.

“So much time goes into the process, and every detail is meticulous, from shipping, cleaning, arrangement and delivery,” Julie says, but she believes it’s all worth it.

MIRONCH

Julie is inspired by flowers thanks to her mom, Maria, whom she works side-by-side every day to arrange and create intricate floral details. Maria’s floral hobby began 15 years ago in Seattle, Washington, when she attended workshops within their community. When Maria and Julie moved to Lakeland together, they began making floral arrangements in their spare time.

For two years, they took orders out of their home—crafting beautiful bouquets for Mother’s Day, archways for small events, and eventually full-service florals for weddings. Today, they own an event space in Dixieland, Uliana Events, where staff put together the flowers that customers can order through checking out the company’s Instagram @uli.and. co or by emailing hello.uliandco@ gmail.com.

M

A

For many couples, a good florist is the only decor assistant they need: centerpieces, archways and table decor can all be done beautifully with quality flowers.

ERNEK &

RI

Julie Czernek of Uli & Co. believes flowers are an integral part of the wedding experience.

“Flowers bring together the color palette, the vision, the mood, the feelings,” Julie says. “Flowers are at the core of what you experience on your wedding day.”

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WEDDING FLORALS

At Inspired Alchemy, Kara Huebsch coordinates floral orders and shipments all the way from Ecuador. She works with florists to provide tropical flowers by-thestem, as well as ready-to-order bouquets for weddings and events.

“Tropical flowers enhance the natural beauty of Florida,” Kara says, explaining that many of these flowers can be grown here, but they’re bigger and under better conditions in Ecuador. They’re also more hardy — they last longer than most wedding flowers, making shipment more efficient and cost-effective.

“Flowers are just special,” Kara says. “There are so many variations. It’s beautiful to see their structure and natural art celebrated in our community.”

Kara is new to the floral business.

She started Inspired Alchemy in August 2022 and has been slowly building a client base since. She showcased her work for the first time alongside other local business owners at Bonnet Springs Park’s

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Bridal Show, and has since hosted popups at Honeycomb Bakery and the Lakeland Valentine’s Day market.

In the coming years, Kara hopes to continue the path she’s on: providing affordable bunches of bouquets for weddings, quinceaneras, and special events, and selecting flowers by-the-stem for florists.

Order your own tropical bouquet via Inspired-Alchemy.com or by calling Kara at 863.521.3004.

Inspired-Alchemy.com

RA HUE

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Florida’s natural scenery is some of the best in the world. Our sprawling fields, sunny weather, and coastal beaches bring visitors from across the globe to experience it. Our tropical flowers are eccentric, too—often brightly colored and expansive, making them perfect for display at beach or destination weddings.

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Laura doesn’t follow the current trends, she truly attempts to create arrangements that represent each couple. Are they an airy garden stroll with lots of greenery, or a tightly bound classic rose? Will their wedding feel like a funky disco party or a quiet, intimate union?

“It’s inspiring to see how florals are evolving,” Laura says, noting she often experiments with hybrid blooms and crafting bouquets into unconventional shapes. She’s fascinated by dying florals to create new colors and making increasingly sustainable installations with foam alternatives.

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In the first stage of the process, she asks the bride and groom seemingly unrelated questions — like: "What do they like to do on the weekend?" and "What kind of music do they listen to?" But she believes it’s pivotal information to craft the couple’s unique floral style.

URA SH

O

When designing wedding florals, Laura Shannon of Bloom Shakalaka has one strategy: get to know the couple.

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BLOOM SHAKALAKA Laura had been planning and hosting events at Ashton Events for nearly a decade when she decided to open her flower shop.

She took classes, traveled and researched to learn how to create the perfect bouquets.

She noticed Lakeland was missing a modern floral-forward shop, and felt she was the right person to bring it to life. At Bloom Shakalaka, she creates floral designs for customers needing fresh, distinctive flowers for their events.

See it for yourself: Bloom Shakalaka is located inside the Joinery at 640 E Main St, Lakeland, FL. Visit bloomshakalaka.com to shop daily and event blooms. @bloomshakalaka bloomshakalaka.com

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REAL LAKELAND WEDDINGS

Weddings

REAL LAKELAND

CHEERS TO OUR NEIGHBORS Local couples who have fallen head over heels for each other have a multitude of options to fall in love with when planning their ideal wedding.

Several of the finest Lakeland wedding photographers share snapshots of the magic from some of their favorite highlight reels, and we provide you the vendors who accounted for the details from head to toe and sun up until the end of the party.

DESIGNED BY BRIANA CHENOT

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Martinez GABI & NICK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATLOCK AND KELLY PHOTOGRAPHY

C E R EMON Y VENUE

RESURRECTION CATHOLIC CHURCH LAKELAND R EC E P TION VENUE

HAUS 820 VIDEOGRA P HY

LOVE IT FILMS F L O R A LS

TAYLOR MADE FLORAL DESIGN C AKE

PUBLIX B E AUTY

A CHERISHED BRIDE INVIT A TIONS

PLEASE REPLY B RIDE’S DRESS

SOUTHERN SWAN BRIDAL B RIDESMA IDS DRESSES

BELLA BRIDESMAIDS G R O OM A N D GROOM SM EN

JOS. A. BANK T RANSP ORTA TION

LAKELAND VALET DJ

GRAINGERTAINMENT

MATLOCK & KELLY

C AT E RING

CATERING OF CENTRAL FLORIDA 87

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MICHAEL & ELIZABETH

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(863)225-8482 | StrongholdRoofing.com FOR M E R LY R E S I D E N TI A L R OOFI N G D E P OT

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MICHAEL & ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARMELA BLACKWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

VE NU E

THE SOROSIS BUILDING CAT E RING & DE CO R

FRESCO’S CO O RDINAT ING & DE CO RAT ING

SAMANTHA MARTIN AT BE BELLA EVENT DECOR & DESIGN FLO WE RS

FLOWERS BY EDITH CARMELA BLACKWELL

CAK E

PUBLIX MU S ICIAN

BRANDON DULL MUSIC O FFICIANT

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THE BRIDAL GALLERY COUTURE AT DR. PHILLIPS BLVD, ORLANDO B RIDE S MAIDS DRE S S E S

DAVID’S BRIDAL PLANT RE NT AL

JOHNSON PLANT RENTAL RING S

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ALEXANDRA & KENNETH

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everyday.

Feel like it's your special day

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GRAINGERTAINMENT VIDE O G RAPH E R

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SUNGLOW PHOTOGRAPHY I S S UE 8 6

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SEA BSUO T NFEI D R SFTO , R B RSU UN CC CH ESS

Local spots to enjoy one last hurrah after the wedding day WRITTEN BY RJ WALTERS

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PHOTOS BY JORDAN RANDALL

DESIGNED BY BRIANA CHENOT

TH E L A KE L A N DE R

is fitting for wedding festivities that the word brunch—said to have been coined

by British writer Guy Beringer in an 1895 article in Hunter’s Weekly—was originally meant as a meal for “Saturday-night carousers to enjoy.”

After the exhilaration and lively memory-making of a wedding, a great way to cap off a weekend with family and friends is to enjoy one last meal together before everyone goes their separate ways.

Whet your appetite by indulging in the delicious fare of three of Lakeland’s most memorable spots to enjoy brunch.

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Nineteen61 is an award-winning downtown establishment that prides itself on waking up people’s taste buds with bold and innovative takes on classic Latin dishes.

In recent years they have become a favorite spot for after-church and post-late-night breakfast options you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

When you bite into torrejas—a Latin take on French toast—the Cuban bread has been soaked in sweet milk for several days, and you will find chorizo, rocoto aioli and queso fresco among the flavors that make other dishes pop.

“This town is getting a lot younger—I feel that vibe—and I love working brunch,” says Executive Chef Cory Beckwith. “I come from Massachusetts where it is a lot of heavy French toast and such, so I try to incorporate my stuff into Nineteen61’s flavors and menu.”

Brunch is served 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday mornings, and customers have the option of eating inside or enjoying sidewalk seating.

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SEA BSUO T NFEI D R SFTO , R B RSU UN CC CH ESS

LOCAL FAVORITES

food pastelitos

Guava and cream cheese filled pastry

torrejas PAG E 1 01

Cuban bread soaked in sweet milk, lightly fried with roasted pineapples & local Palmetto honey

steak and eggs

drinks mimosas coffee cocktail

Espresso shot, Liquor 43, and cinnamon

Flat iron marinated in aji panca, two sunny side up eggs and breakfast potato and chorizo blend

poutine con huevo

Seared brisket & short rib blend, caramelized onions, yucca fries, seco gravy, queso fresco, salsa criolla, and rocoto aioli topped with a sunny side up egg

61 chicken biscuit

PAG E 1 8

Buttermilk biscuits, herb & spice breaded chicken breast, duke’s mayo, local palmetto honey NINETEEN 61 FULL MENU 104

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Terrace Hotel Lakeland has overlooked Lake Mirror for nearly 100 years, and inside its Terrace Grille customers will find a refined historic setting paired with fresh food on precisely crafted plates to create a memorable brunch experience every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Some highlights on the menu include the Terrace Frittata, and a version of avocado toast that features poached egg, tomato caviar and shaved asparagus.

The colorful breakfast arrangements are purposeful, says Chef Chris Vargas, who recently stepped down from his position.

“Sustainable local products are the trend, so we work hard to offer fresh sustainable products,” he says.

The dining experience includes vast amounts of natural light that bounce off timeless design features like dramatic columns and ornate chandeliers.

“We try to ensure it is a warm local setting and keep it simple and elegant,” Vargas says.

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food terrace frittata

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Asparagus, red peppers, mushrooms and Gruyère cheese, garnished with arugula salad and crème fraiche

lemon ricotta pancakes

Almond pain perdu with sweet honey mascarpone filling topped with fresh blackberries and slivered almonds

avocado toast & breakfast potatoes

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drinks pineapple mimosa peach mimosa pomegranate mimosa iced coffee

Also available with liquor added

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863.225.8820 310 Frank Lloyd Wright Way Lakeland, FL 33803

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Good Friday Service

Rise Up Festival

Easter Service

SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

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BUT FIRST, BRUNCH

FRESCOS

Tina Calhoon’s southern cooking prowess, honed growing up in the kitchen with her mom, have created the roots for a downtown destination where locals enjoy hearty comfort food beginning at 8 a.m. every morning of the week.

“We’re the busiest brunch place in town,” she says, and Frescos has ample seating inside and out to accommodate that claim.

Her favorite entree on their extensive breakfast and brunch menus is the chicken and waffles, which are a spicy take on the classic with a chorizo gravy and eggs topping off a fluffy golden waffle.

“Everyone just loves our chorizo gravy, and when you love something you just keep coming back,” she says.

Their drink menu includes self-titled “Bottomless Therapy” with offerings of unlimited mimosas, bellinis, Bloody Marys and bourbon punch.

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NS GOW ALL TO Y D REA R WEA ND A 9 9 $1,4 S LES

250 + DES IGN ER DRE SSE S IN STO CK

110 WES T REYONL DS ST PL ANT CITY, F L ( 81 3 ) 6 5 2 - 81 31 BRI DALBYCROWN

Since 1972 We’ve treated them like family.

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BUT FIRST, BRUNCH

LOCAL FAVORITES food shrimp & grits

Spicy chorizo gravy over creamy grits

eggs benedict PAG E 1 1 1

Poached eggs, Canadian bacon, English muffin, Hollandaise sauce (optional gluten free)

drinks bloody mary tennessee sunshine

House orange infused Jack Daniel’s, house made cinnamon vanilla orange syrup, orange cream bitters

chicken & waffles

Fried chicken, spicy chorizo gravy and eggs

southern bowl

Fried chicken, eggs and asparagus over cheesy potatoes and topped with Hollandaise sauce

asia minor

melon dramatic

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HISTORY

ISSUE 86

CIRCA 1930s

The Sorosis Club on Lake Morton Drive in Lakeland, Florida was designed by noted Lakeland architect Wilbur Talley and completed in late 1927. It replaced the Club’s earlier home at Tennessee Avenue and Orange Street. In 1980 the building was sold to the Catholic Diocese of Orlando, which used it as a senior center. The Sorosis Club Building was purchased by the Junior League of Greater Lakeland in 2005, renovated and rented for wedding receptions, parties, and other events.

Courtesy of Lakeland Public Library

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