Social Eastern Shore | April 2025 by Social Magazines

SOCIAL

From the Editor

In this issue, we’re showing off our passion for fashion by featuring Eastern Shore businesses offering on-trend clothing, stylish accessories, and soughtafter designer brands. Dress to impress—go check them out!

Our event coverage highlights some amazing happenings centered around the kids in our community, including Bayside Academy’s Bay Affair with its fabulous Palm Royale theme. Other featured events include the beloved Fairhope Arts & Crafts Festival and the hugely successful inaugural BALDWIN REALTORS® Grand Gatsby Casino Night fundraiser. We’re excited to share smiles from these and other local events!

We’re also honored to spotlight Kidz Eatz and its inspiring founder, Anne Davis, who is making a difference in the fight against food insecurity for local children. In this issue’s People You Should Know, meet the fashionable and faith-filled Denise Knox, who brings both style and heart to Private Gallery.

We love sharing the stories of the people and organizations that make the Eastern Shore shine—and we’re so glad you picked up this copy of Social Eastern Shore

Melinda McGhee Managing Editor Alabama

On the Cover: Aeana Carpenter, Tiffany Ginn and Morgan McEvoy

Cover

Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room

Photography

Publisher

David Renfro

Managing Editor Alabama

Melinda McGhee

Graphic Design

Lead Designer Kim Mesman

Chris Shenk

Brad Growden

Social Media Manager

Megan Stearman

Web Design

Chris Shenk

Photography

Candice Brown

Ruili Cai

Cindy McCrory

Holly McKinney

Britta Rivera

Priscilla Santiago

Stephen Savage

Wedding Photography

Ashleigh Donnelly Designs

Copy Editor

Tamie McGhee

Sales

Melinda McGhee | 251.767.9429

David Renfro | 731.499.1414

Britta Rivera | 251.654.5846

Distribution Manager

Mike Nelson

Social Eastern Shore Magazine www.socialeasternshore.com

Thrill rides, waterparks, coastal lodging options, and a free entertainment district–it’s all here, at OWA Parks & Resort!

Resilience in the Face of Challenge

Just months after founding Kidz Eatz, Anne was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive cancer. But even during treatment, her mission never paused. Now in remission, she continues to lead with strength and purpose.

Kidz Eatz is more than a nonprofit — it’s a movement rooted in compassion, faith, and community. And at its heart is a woman whose life is a shining example of the power of giving back.

“One child, one meal at a time,” says Davis. “That’s how we change the world.”

Derby Dayz: A Chance to Support the Mission of Kidz Eatz On May 3, 2025, Kidz Eatz will host its annual Derby Dayz Fundraiser at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope — an afternoon of food, fun, and philanthropy. Enjoy live Kentucky Derby coverage, hat contests, a live auction by Board of Education member Cecil Christenberry, and more.

Get tickets at Eventbrite.com (search Derby Dayz) or call Anne Davis at 251.581.0427 for event and sponsorship details.

We have but one mission. Providing our clients with the guidance for what’s now and what’s next. Our team, our abilities and our promise to you, is to provide the advice, tools and solutions you need to chart your path to success.

Whether you’re looking for a local vacation rental management company or your next home, you can feel conﬁdent and ready as our experience and capabilities are unsurpassed. We’re a different type of partner.

We’re all in on your success – every step of the way.

by Ruili Cai

The Baldwin REALTORS® Grand Gatsby Casino Fundraiser was an evening of vintage elegance, fun, and philanthropy benefiting the Baldwin REALTORS® Foundation. Guests arrived in Roaring 20s attire and enjoyed casino-style games, a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and exciting prizes. The event brought together REALTORS®, affiliates and members of the public for a lively night in support of a meaningful cause.

Photos

Kayla Sanders and Michelle Gillespie

Liuba Golovatii, Jennifer Spears and Mindy Milligan

Allyson and Jeffrey Odam

Wendy Alley and Dusti Hafner

Clara Cannon and Cindy Zebryk

Talerie McGhee, Tracy Schruck, Amanda Quincey and Natasha Winter

Stacy and Dan Sloan

Ashleigh and Matt Amerson

Jennifer Kiehn and Cristy Benefield

Leanne Murray and Jennifer Foutch

Anita Elisar and Tim Arant

Kimi Helms and Shawn Barnette

Judd Gillespie, Natasha Winter, Laney Dominick and Maria Ann Callaghan

Kay Dowdy, Kim Kosick and Lori Karahalios

Brandi and Shawn Elliott

Clara and Kerry Cannon

Michelle and Judd Gillespie

Sully and Joe Hill

Rhea Devilbiss and Liz Rios

Mike and Lynn Pace

Amy and Ron Cuny

Sviatlana Shoemaker, Michelle Walker and Talerie McGhee

Suzanne Winstead and Paige Stuart

Amanda Spears Harper and Holly Viger

Renee Marshall, Savannah Hannon and Katie Sondag

Kate Irvine and Tracy Womack

Daphne’s Night to Shine Prom at Trojan Hall on the campus of Daphne High School celebrated 10 years of providing an unforgettable evening for individuals with special needs. Supported by The Tim Tebow Foundation, the event featured a red-carpet entrance a catered dinner, a respite room for caregivers, a crowning ceremony where every guest received a crown or tiara and more. Learn more about Night to Shine. Follow them on Facebook @NTSDaphne.

Photos by Candice Brown

Jamar Anderson and Sloan Dyess

Beth Gibson, Caroline Gibson and Holly Morse

Julia Savage and Rochelle Tripp

Adam Harmeier and Whitney Hemphill

Finley Morse and Madelyn Lindsey Breanna Averette, Chandler White, John Austin Sanders and Lily DeLaney

Maggie Reed and Annabella Thomas

Mary Johnston and Tal Sudduth

Brooke Owens and Mandy Gipson

Elaine Bruckner and Keri Buxton

Graduation Issue

Adrianne Vickers, Mary Hays Gipson, Lindsey Velentin and Josh Meerscheidt Zach Schrock, Lily Lumpkin, Gwen Abbott, Brian Talley, Grace Dawson and Brian Saunders

Lilly Robinette, Rachel Marlow, Samuel Kellogg and Mercedes Martinez

Lynnen Hackney, South Paw and Aiden Jerkins

FASHION Spring

Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography

Owner

Shelly Ballard

WHAT’S HOT FOR

SPRING?

After going to market in Atlanta recently, what trends stand out to you for Spring 2025?

Breezy silhouettes, lightweight fabrics, and vibrant colors are everywhere. Sets—especially resort-inspired ones—are huge this season, alongside relaxed tailoring and Southern-inspired touches like delicate embroidery.

Any colors or textures you’re loving for the Eastern Shore?

Citrus brights like orange, green, and blue are big, plus magentas and timeless neutrals. We’re seeing a lot of cotton poplin, linen, crochet, and open weaves—perfect for our hot, humid climate.

How do you tailor what you see at market for your customers here?

We know our clientele well and always keep comfort and versatility in mind. It’s about curating pieces they’ll love and actually wear here on the Eastern Shore.

What’s flying off the shelves right now?

Crochet knits, statement bags, and beaded accessories—especially from Julep Lane—are restocking constantly!

Have TV shows influenced local style?

Absolutely! Shows like Palm Royale and Southern Charm are sparking interest in retro looks. We even had a fabulous pink feathered dress like Southern Charm’s Patricia Altschul’s that turned heads!

Final style inspo?

Feminine, polished, and effortlessly put together styling. We’re loving that flats are trending—they’re fun, stylish, and add a soft, feminine touch to any look. We’re here for it!

Holly Saliski

Owner, Monkee’s of Fairhope

Monday - Saturday | 10AM – 5PM Sunday | 12PM - 4PM

The Eastern Shore’s ONLY

Swimwear

Shop

ViX Swimwear, Dippin’ Daisy’s, PQ Swim, JMP The Label, L*Space, Agua Bendita, Peixoto & more! Our goal is simple: We want everyone leaving to ‘wear the suit.’

Owner Tracey Cannizzo

Swimwear That Fits You—and Your Budget

Photos

Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography

Mahjong for a Mission

Mahjong Magnolias partnered with Private Gallery for a special evening in support of Oath Fund, which provides grants to adopting families. The Magnolias host Mahjong for a Mission events to support worthy causes, and this event was especially meaningful due to personal adoption stories within the group. Private Gallery generously donated 20% of sales, and a local adoptive family was awarded a grant at the event.

Devon Harris and Stephanie Johnson

Norwood Morris and Janie Long

Lauren Klein and Victoria Ward

Crystal Hanson and Rachel Gray

Denise Knox and Michelle Fields

Jamie Meier, Rhett Meier, Ada Rhett Meier, Medea Abrego, Joseph Ahrego, Marie Kline, Deidra Drinkyard, and Michelle Fields

Casey Hobbs and Sam Lewandowski

Medea Abrego and Lindsey Abrego

Holly Howell, Cara Dube and Julie Andrzejewski

Jenny Carr, Abigail Ward, Alison Ward and Jessica Norrell

Photos by Ruili Cai

SPRING FASHION SHOW & LUNCHEON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN SAVAGE

The Auxiliary of the Fairhope Yacht Club hosted a soldout Spring Fashion Show & Luncheon—the first since 2019. The event supports scholarships for children and grandchildren of club employees, as well as the Junior Yacht Club. Fashions for the show were provided by some of downtown Fairhope’s finest boutiques: Cat’s Meow, East Bay Clothiers, Green Gates, M & F Casuals, Private Gallery, and Stephanie’s Downtown.

Beyond honoring traditions

Being local is about more than just an address. As your friends and neighbors, we live here, we work here, and we celebrate here. Those types of timehonored financial values might not be something you’d expect from a bank, but it’s what you can expect from us. Banking Beyond Expectation.

Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre (ESRT) is a non-profit dedicated to educating and training local students while bringing professional-quality theatre to the Eastern Shore. Founded in 2012 by former educator Erin Langley, ESRT was born from a vision to expand access to the arts and inspire creativity in young people.

ESRT offers a wide range of programming including summer musical theatre camps, dance and acting workshops, Kids Academy, and large-scale productions such as the beloved Theatre on the Bluff series. Students also participate in elite-level training and national experiences, including performing in New York City and competing at the Junior Theatre Festival. In 2025, ESRT will award over $10,000 in scholarships and host free Broadway-led workshops in partnership with AMDA and Open Jar Studios.

With support from sponsors, local governments, and generous community volunteers, ESRT continues to grow while making theatre accessible to all. Their upcoming production of Grease promises a high-energy, outdoor celebration of storytelling, talent, and community spirit.

More than just performances, ESRT’s work shapes confident, passionate individuals who carry the values of creativity and leadership with them for life.

Theatre on the Bluff: Grease Under the Stars

Theatre on the Bluff is a unique community celebration where professional-quality theatre meets the beauty of Fairhope’s Henry George Park. As the sun sets over Mobile Bay, audiences gather with picnic blankets to enjoy an unforgettable outdoor production.

This year’s show, Grease, runs April 30–May 3, 2025. With live music, vintage cars, and a fully immersive 1950s atmosphere, the production will feature a cast of students, adults, and even local celebrity Lucy Buffett. From expanded choreography by Matthew Kiel to custom set and costume designs by Marcia Shedeck,, this reimagining of Grease invites audiences into the full world of Rydell High—complete with cheerleaders, teachers, and Rydell Elementary students.

What sets Theatre on the Bluff apart is its sense of community. The audience often knows someone on stage, making each show feel personal and celebratory. The natural backdrop of the bay enhances every moment, turning a night at the theatre into an unforgettable Eastern Shore experience.

Lucy Buffett — Guest Star in Grease!

In 1985, Bayside Academy hosted its inaugural Bay Affair, establishing a cherished annual tradition that continues to unite parents, alumni, sponsors, and friends in support of the school. This premier fundraising event features live and silent auctions, artwork, gourmet food, and entertainment, all set in an atmosphere of fun and fellowship. The theme of this year’s event was Bayside Royale: Party in the Palms.

Photos by Cindy McCrory

Dylan and Mary Wells

Richard and Merri Brana Bass

Jenna Rachel and Keely Forsdick

Creagh Williams and Amy Kohn

Brittanie and Kristofer Koenemann Melonie Breakfield, Jacqueline Castaneda Guinan and Joanna Spry

Morgan and John Hofferber

Morgan and Allison Ashurst

Leslie Ann Snead and Paige Little

Sage Meliz and Sophie Pozo

Wesley and Aeana Carpenter

Shaun and Holly Kern

Ryan Little, Bevelyn and Jack Wallace

Rebecca Roberts and Jessica Savage

Taylor and Ross Houser

Tiffany and Mike Ginn

Lawren Reaves and Claire Peyton Webber

Grant Reaves and Jay Broughton

Hollie and Bryant MacKellar

Beth Peters and Leila Tarlton Nichols

Nick and Ryan Klarman

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Photo of Dr. Koehler by Jennie Tewell

Photography

THE BAY AFFAIR

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY M c CRORY, BLUE ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

Bayside Academy’s mission is to prepare students to be successful both academically and in life. By generously supporting The Bay Affair, parents, alumni, sponsors, and friends expressed their commitment to allowing the school to carry out its mission, embrace its traditions, and cultivate lifelong learners in a nurturing and safe environment.

“This expansion ensures we’re well-positioned to continue delivering exceptional care to our growing community.” –Ormand Thompson, President of Thomas Hospital

Thomas Hospital Breaks Ground on New

Patient Tower

In late January, Thomas Hospital broke ground on a new 74,000-square-foot Patient Tower—an advanced expansion to meet Baldwin County’s growing healthcare needs.

Local leaders from healthcare, government, and business gathered to celebrate the milestone and highlight the importance of accessible, high-quality care in our fast-growing community.

Thomas Hospital has partnered with Hoar Construction, a trusted leader in healthcare construction, to bring this state-of-the-art patient tower to life.

What the New Patient Tower Will Include:

On-call physician and employee handicapped parking on the ground floor

25 medical-surgical beds on the second floor to increase inpatient care capacity

Shell space on the remaining two floors, designed for future use to accommodate the hospital’s growing services as the community’s needs evolve.

About Thomas Hospital

Thomas Hospital, an affiliate of Infirmary Health, is a 189-bed acute care hospital located in the heart of downtown Fairhope, AL. Thomas Hospital repeatedly earns national recognition for its award-winning cardiovascular and maternity services. The hospital is home to Baldwin County’s only open-heart surgery center and the county’s only CARF-accredited inpatient rehabilitation hospital, Colony Rehabilitation Hospital.

Thomas Hospital New Tower

Susan Hunt and Martha Davidson

Photos by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography and Ruili Cai

DETERMINATION FAITH, FASHION & FIERCE

For over 25 years, Private Gallery has been a beloved shopping destination in downtown Fairhope—and at the heart of it all is founder Denise Knox, whose faith and passion have shaped not just a boutique, but a ministry.

“First and foremost, I give it all to God,” Denise shares. “Private Gallery belongs to Him—He’s the CEO. My faith, prayers, and desire to give Him the glory are what have carried this business.”

With a mission to provide a fun, affordable shopping experience for all ages, Denise has built a loyal following, rooted not only in style but in love and community. “Our customers are our friends. We’ve celebrated weddings, babies, and graduations, and walked through grief and hardships together. We treat them like family.”

Denise brings her faith into the store each day—praying during her commute, holding office devotions, and always being ready to lift others up. “It’s a true honor when someone asks me to pray for them. God uses this store as a mission field.”

Her journey hasn’t been without challenges—family health crises, personal trials, even a global pandemic—but Denise has remained steadfast. “It’s not always easy, but God has never failed me. Sometimes, you just take it one day at a time.”

Fashion has always been in her blood. After moving to Fairhope from Dallas, she began hosting jewelry shows, which quickly revealed the need for a storefront. “People kept asking how they could shop between shows,” she laughs. “So I opened a store and never looked back.”

Denise Knox

That leap of faith has grown into two thriving spaces on Fairhope Avenue: one dedicated to clothing, and the original corner store now a treasure trove of accessories. “It was a big move with big rent,” she says of the expansion, “but I talked to the Lord, did the math, and took the risk. Best decision ever.”

Family has played a vital role throughout her journey. Her parents cheered her on from day one, with her mom joining her at markets and her dad proudly handing out business cards. Her husband has built each store by hand, and her daughters, Tiffany and Katy, bring their own talents to the business.

“Private Gallery has always been about more than just clothes,” Denise says. “It’s about people, purpose, and giving back. I’m blessed beyond measure—and I’ll probably still be tagging jewelry in Heaven one day!”

DAPHNE

Emily Gibson, Elisabeth Duplantis and Molly Spain

Beverly Floyd and Cheramie Jordan

Teresa Heinz, Donna Givens and Kristi Hagood

Tyler and Lauren Lavender, Deanna Sharp, David Besancon and Dionne Dunton

Sherry Rainbolt and Morrell Baxter

OF THE

St. James Episcopal School celebrated its annual Night of the Arts art showcase with an evening full of creativity and color. The show featured individual and collaborative student artwork, including the immersive “Under the Sea Glow Gallery.” The closing reception, held in the Performing Arts Building, included the announcement of winners— recognizing the talent and hard work of the school’s young artists.

Photos by Priscilla Santiago

Hansen and Taylor Babington, Hiram, Josephine and William

Christina and Mason Dunn, Presley

JulieAnna Sherrod and Genie Porter

Sherry and Finley Arch

Emily and Eli Jackson

Jeffrey and Audrey Smolik, Sophie, Lily and Sadie

Sara and Mike Majors

Mary and Graham Smith, Amelia

Chris and Melissa Knight, Fuller and Ann Douglas

Jack Murphy and Langdon Broughton, Ann Dunning

Paige and JD Wilson, Ellie

Chad and Jessica Clary, Logan, Mark Hickey

McGriff and Katie Walters

Lilly and Bobby Skadow

AW SHUCKS

INGREDIENTS:

Blanco Tequila

Guava

Lime

Dry Curacao

Hot Honey Syrup

Tajín for rim

WHAT YOU NEED

Shaker & Rock Glass

DIRECTIONS:

Combine all ingredients, shake well, and strain over ice into a rocks glass rimmed with Tajín. Garnish with a dehydrated or fresh lime slice.

This cocktail was created in support of the American Cancer Society’s Shuck Cancer Baldwin County fundraiser.

“I absolutely love working with Social Magazines! The team is creative, easy to work with, and has curated a great marketing strategy for our business.”

KRISTIN JARVIS

Practice Manager, Eastern Shore Cosmetic Surgery

“Social Magazines brings a refreshing blend of fun and creativity to our partnership. We love being part of the publication, seeing familiar faces featured, and staying connected to local events in every issue.”

STEPHANIE HALE

Co-Owner, Coastal Stone & Cabinetry

“Collaborating with Social Magazines has been a fantastic experience. Their expertise, dedication, and passion have truly made a difference. "

KENDALL WALTERS Owner, Gotcha Covered

Champagne &

Friends of the Fairhope Public Library invited guests to enjoy chocolate desserts, savory hor d’oeurves, champagne, and wine. The event also featured silent and live auctions, and all proceeds benefitted Fairhope Public Library.

Photos by Stephen Savage

Pam and Jimmy Prestwood

Karen McDonald, Jim and Jennie Avant

Bernie and Catherine Dorrough

Mary Cunningham and Michelle Roberts

RoxAnne Fahlberg and Michelle Ward

Wendy Dobbins, Sonja Pate and Christine Banjanin

Danielle and Matthew Myrick

Wes Funes and Elizabeth Williams

Ramez and Joey Skaff, Adele and Hunt Hapworth

Bill and Susan Wismar

Discover the active, connected lifestyle you’ve imagined at The Reserve at Fairhope, the Eastern Shore’s newest, most modern senior living community.

• Spacious, custom apartments and cottages featuring large garages and screened-in porches

Chef-prepared meals in casual and formal ﬁne dining options

• State-of-the-art ﬁtness center, indoor aerobic pool, and art studio

Dog park, putting green, outdoor pool, and plenty of lighted sidewalks

• Luxurious event venues for enriching social, educational, and spiritual activities

Experience The Reserve, conveniently located near Fairhope’s picturesque waterfront views and ﬂower lined downtown streets.

Learn more about the lifestyle you won’t ﬁnd anywhere else by calling 251.929.8654 and schedule your visit today. Have

Byrant and Patrick Whelan

Jason and Debra Schmitt

Marsha Gottlieb, Fran Coet and Sandra San Martino

Jillian and Paul Hernandez

KATE MOORESupermom

After moving to Gulf Shores in 2023 to be closer to family, I knew purchasing a Statemint franchise was the perfect way to start fresh. For years, I ran a design studio and wholesale stationery company in Knoxville. Little did I know when I helped create the branding for Statemint’s franchise expansion, I was designing something for my own future. Now, I get to connect with incredible women, help them refresh their closets, and put money back in their pockets—it’s a dream come true.

At Statemint, we believe in sustainable shopping and supporting women in our community. Our charity presales give early access to the best deals while benefiting local organizations, like Flourish, which empowers young women in Baldwin County. Even our unsold items are donated to teens in foster care. We also host a teacher pre-sale, allowing educators to shop early as a small token of appreciation for their hard work.

I married my sweetheart, Rob, a Mobile native, in 2005 on the sands of Orange Beach. We have two amazing sons, Finn (16) and Hollis (13), and being their mama is my greatest joy. I ran my design business while homeschooling them for years—a challenge that was absolutely worth it. Working for myself has given me the flexibility to be present for the little things that matter most. Now living near family, our boys ride their bikes

The Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center hosted its signature fundraiser, Under the Stars, at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope. Guests enjoyed an evening of live music by the Six Piece Suits Band, delicious food, drinks, dancing, and auctions—all in support of 36 years of providing safety, healing, and justice for child abuse victims in Baldwin County.

Photos by Stephen Savage

Terryl and Sabrina Reeves

Tracey Wilson Goens, Niki Whitaker and Jessica Ware

Missha and Daniel Waldrip

Frances Holk Jones and Huey “Hoss” Mack

Kris and Mark Stejskal

Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center Staff

Sarah and Tater Harris

Amanda and Rick Long

Amanda and Thomas Montz

Marques and Meredith Ivy

SOCIAL Selected by

Cotton Tops

Huge selection of ladies' apparel, casual to formal and all things in between. Everyday gift items for all occasions.

Jude Clothing

Elevated essentials. Stand out special occasion styles. Flattering fits, timeless design and a warm, inviting experience in Old

M& F Casuals

Classic Ladies’ Clothing & Accessories for a Casual Lifestyle. Don't miss the Julie Vos trunk show later this month. Details on FB!

7 South from WORK OUT to LUNCH OUT from THE BOAT to THE BAR

Private Gallery

Ladies apparel, jewelry, shoes and handbags. Great gift ideas. Come see us in store at 218 & 330 Fairhope Avenue or shop online!

The Beach House Boutique

Timeless fashion, swimwear, and accessories for all ages. Featuring the Lilly Pulitzer and Gretchen Scott collections.

Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography

Love

Towne Daphne.

Why Print Marketing Still Matters

In today’s hyper-digital world, the benefits of print marketing are undeniable:

Tangibility: Print offers something digital cannot—a physical connection. People can touch, hold, and save it.

Trust and Credibility: A printed piece conveys permanence and trust, cutting through the noise of fleeting digital ads.

Emotional Connection: Print engages the senses and evokes nostalgia, creating a more profound brand bond.

P OWER O F P RINT

Longevity: Unlike digital ads that disappear in seconds, print materials stick around and often get passed along to others.

Less Competition: With inboxes overflowing, print offers a rare opportunity to stand out.

Multi-Sensory Impact: The texture of a highquality brochure or the scent of an innovative direct mail piece makes print memorable.

Personalization: Advances in technology allow for hyper-targeted and customized print campaigns.

Faces & Places

Celebrating the vibrant people and beloved businesses that are part of the reason we love calling this area home.

Gulf Coast of the Top Physicians Coming in August

Get to know the Eastern Shore’s Top Physicians and learn more about the many different practices that serve our area, along with introductions to the newest Physicians in our community.

Crawfish for the Classroom Presented by 68 Ventures included live music, children’s activities, local brews from Fairhope Brewing Company, and crawfish prepared by Mudbug Mafia. Proceeds from the event will support the 2025 Supporting Educational Enrichment in Daphne Schools (SEEDS) Classroom Grant Program for Daphne schools.

Photos by Holly McKinney

Talerie Singleton McGhee, Sviatlana Shoemaker, Teresa Croft and Jordan Fuqua

Rachel, Jillian, Ford, and Jeffrey Jablonski

Christina and Robin LeJeune

Marty and Lesley Bean, Brooklyn and Ty Webber

Nathan Cox, Pat and Carmen Hand

Randon and Kanesha Carnathan, Haley, Eloise, Everly and Zack Elkins

Caroline McConaghy and Kaylee Roush

Tori Zahn, Lauren Lee, Sarah Sadlis, and Angela Hoffman

Kori, Kara and Phil Wilbourn

LIVE LIKE A ROYAL

Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort is all in with an impressive 60,000 square feet of gaming space, showcasing over 800 state-of-the-art slot machines with vibrant bonuses and high payouts, making it a premier destination on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. In addition to our extensive slot selection, the casino features 30 gaming tables offering classic games like Roulette, Craps, and Baccarat, providing an exhilarating atmosphere for all visitors seeking excitement and entertainment.

&MADISON CODY

Madison Kruk and Cody Edgemon’s love story has been decades in the making. Their journey began on Ono Island in 1996 when they were neighbors—Madison just three and Cody four. Their early friendship consisted of fun playdates, including driving around in Madison’s Barbie Jeep. When Cody’s family moved to Fairhope, they lost touch, only to reconnect 20 years later when Cody walked into Madison’s parent’s house. It didn’t take long for sparks to fly again.

After dating for six years, Cody proposed at the same pier in Gulf Shores where they had their first date. He told Madison, “This is where we ended our first date six years ago, and this is where I want to begin the rest of our lives together.” Surrounded by rose petals and candles, Madison’s response was filled with joy and tears.

PHOTOS BY ASHLEIGH DONNELLY DESIGNS

Madison’s wedding dress, designed by Pnina Tornai, was the perfect reflection of her modern and bold style. During a trip to New York, she tried on multiple dresses, but nothing compared to the dress that made her emotional from the moment she slipped it on. After receiving her mother’s approval, even though it was over budget, the dress was hers. It was a special moment, as they also met the designer herself.

The couple's wedding, held at Kiva Dunes, was a reflection of their love and personalities. The venue held special meaning as Cody's dad developed the property, and this was the first wedding ever held on the golf course. Three days of wedding festivities kicked off with a Halloween Welcome Party, featuring a Grilled Oyster Bar and a Build-Your-Own Grilled Cheese Station.

Madison’s vision for the wedding was modern, fun, and untraditional. “I wanted it to reflect my style, so instead of an archway or flowers, we had huge silver spheres at the ceremony. For the reception, I envisioned white palm trees, floating silver orbs, flower arrangements in the pool, and mirrored disco balls. My bridesmaids wore white, guests wore black. At the reception, we had a custom 10-foot DJ booth. A surprise from my parents included Fat Heads of our Golden Retrievers, and water guns filled with tequila!" Guests partied into the night, some even ending up in the pool by the end of the evening.

WEDDING PLANNER: Noble Events

VENUE & CATERING: Kiva Dunes

FLORAL DESIGN: Fiore of Pensacola

WEDDING & GROOM'S CAKES: Sukar Bakes

WEDDING GOWN: Kleinfeld Bridal

RECEPTION MUSIC: DJ Blaine Harper of I Need a Beat

ENGAGEMENT RING AND WEDDING BANDS: Diamond Jewelers

RENTALS: Gulf Coast Events and Rentals

LIGHTING: Snider Bros LLC

OYSTER NAME CARDS: Coastal Joy Decor

HAIR AND MAKEUP: Halee McKenzie

TANNING: Island Glow

For You & Your Family

A dazzling, healthy smile has many benefits; it instills confidence, allows you to enjoy the food and drinks you love and enhances your appearance.

Nobody understands this better than Doctor Sweeney and Doctor McEvoy – We are more than your neighborhood dentist – we’re friends, parents, neighbors and active members of our community, just like you!

We are a full-service family dentistry practice. We offer the latest cosmetic dentistry treatments to enhance your smile. For the children and elderly adults in your family, we offer pediatric and geriatric dental care. All of your needs can be met at our office, including:

Care • Zoom! Teeth

We welcome the opportunity to make the Eastern Shore a better place by instilling confidence, pride and excellent oral hygiene habits in patients like you. Schedule an appointment now to discover the what makes us different.

FAIRHOPE ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN SAVAGE

In its 73rd year, the Fairhope Arts & Crafts Festival celebrated everything we love about spring on the Eastern Shore—blooming flowers, beautiful art, warm sunshine, live music, and family fun. Attracting more than 250,000 visitors to the scenic streets of downtown Fairhope, it is one of the most anticipated festivals of the year.

This year’s theme, “Paint the Town,” was brought to life—literally—through a vibrant downtown mural painted by local artist Hannah Legg, commemorating the festival and its long-standing history in Fairhope.

More than 200 artisans filled the streets of downtown Fairhope to showcase and sell their original works of fine art and handmade crafts.

The USA by the Bay Speaker Series recently featured “Leading with Impact: Distinguished Women’s Panel,” a compelling discussion moderated by Dr. Andi Kent, Executive Vice President and Provost of the University of South Alabama. The panel included Tanya Fratto Blair, Dr. Constance Dabezies, Mayor Sherry Sullivan, and Dr. Gia Wiggins.