COMPLIMENTARY
a b outto wn . i o
Restaurant Review
Sept 2026
Your Local High School and College Football Schedules page
Locanda Brasato p. 52
28
The Most Transformative Thing for Your Body page 14
LooksMaxxing for Men
t s o l u Mutif
page 26
The
a e B People
n i Birmingh8am page 3
600 Olde English Lane Suite 104 & 124
fro m o n e vi l l a g e to an o the r :
We have found our new home, now let us help you find yours! raypoynor.com | 205.879.3036
Voted “Best Place to Buy a Unique Gift” Voted “Best Jewelry Store in Mountain Brook”
JohnBromberg@JBandCoJewelry.com For Appointment: 205.478.0455 JBandCoJewelry.com
Issue 152 VOLUME 21
NO.
TWO FIVE 0
To see all the party pics, visit abouttown.io
INSIDE 14 If I Could Only Do One Thing for My Body - This Would Be It 16 Pooches on the Patio- Supportingthe GBHS 18 Otey’s Fest - The Shindig 24 Picasso Pets - Preview Party 26 LooksMaxxing - For Men 28 SEC, UAB, High School Football Schedule- Tear Out 30 Magic City Cocktail Challenge - Supporting The American Cancer Society 32 Throw Back Event - Funky Monkey 2010 34 Throw Back Event - Schoolhouse Rock 2010 36 Charity Profile - The Red Door 38 The Most Beautiful People in Birmingham - Inside & Out 52 Restaurant Review - Locanda Brasato
COVER
Michele Kendrick photo: Christina Hontzas ABOUT
2 TOWN
Where It All Comes Together™ Discover a new way to shop for your project. Ferguson Home has the bath, kitchen and lighting products you need to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re refreshing the look of a single room or building a new home, our experts are here to help every step of the way, from product selection through delivery. Start your project or find your local showroom at fergusonhome.com.
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Hey GuysDo You Know How To Dress Your Age?
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
CH A WOMAN
WHEN YOU APPROA
Many things run through a woman’s mind when you first meet. Here are some things to remember.
“If you can’t do great things, do small things in a great way.”- NAPOLEON HILL
Great style isn’t about chasing every new trend—or trying to dress like a man half your age. The best-dressed men understand that clothing should evolve with them. As you move through life, your wardrobe should become more refined, better fitted and more distinctly your own.
in your 20’s...
in your 40’s...
Build the Foundation
Develop a Signature
Your 20’s are the time to experiment, but they’re also the time to establish the foundation of a great wardrobe. Fit matters more than labels. A simple, well-fitted shirt and a good pair of jeans will always look better than an expensive outfit that hangs awkwardly on your body.
Your 40’s are when personal style can become truly distinctive. You’ve had enough time to figure out what looks good on you, so stop dressing simply because something is fashionable.
Invest in a tailored jacket. Whether you’re going to dinner, a wedding or a job interview, a well-fitting navy or charcoal blazer instantly makes you look more polished and mature. You don’t need a closet full of suits, but you should have at least one jacket that fits exceptionally well. Skip excessive logos. Your clothes should introduce you—not the brand you’re wearing. Experiment with color and style, but avoid letting oversized logos, extreme trends or novelty pieces become your entire identity.
in your 30’s...
Lose the clothes that make you look younger. That doesn’t mean becoming conservative or boring. It means being selective. Extremely distressed jeans, overly graphic T-shirts and clothing designed primarily for teenagers can make a grown man look like he’s trying too hard. Wear modern clothes—just choose versions that look intentional rather than youthful.
in your 50’s...
Upgrade the Details
Buy better shoes. A quality pair of leather loafers, dress shoes or sleek boots can elevate even a relatively casual outfit. Shoes are one of the first things people notice, and they can make inexpensive clothing look considerably more sophisticated. Prioritize fit and quality. Have your jackets, trousers and shirts tailored when necessary. A $200 jacket that fits perfectly will generally look better than a $1,000 jacket that doesn’t. Your 30s are also a good time to start investing in quality fabrics and classic colors that won’t look dated next year.
In your 50’s, style should communicate confidence without demanding attention. You’ve earned the right to look comfortable in your own skin, and your wardrobe should reflect that. Choose refinement over fashion. Quality cashmere, fine cotton, good denim, leather shoes and well-cut jackets will serve you better than constantly changing trends. Build around classic pieces in colors that complement you, and let the quality of the clothing speak for itself. Make fit non-negotiable. Clothes that are too tight can look like you’re trying to recapture your 30s; clothes that are too loose can make you look older than you are. The goal is neither. Your clothes should skim your body comfortably and create a clean, confident silhouette.
WHAT WOMEN THINK ARE THE BIGGEST STYLE MISTAKES ON MEN AND HOW TO FIX THEM 1
BAGGY CLOTHING
Wear the right cut in your pants. Sizing in the seat and thigh is most important. Your waist can be adjusted.
YOUR VOICE The most attractive women prefer deep-voiced men, according to a study by Scottish researchers. It suggests high testosterone levels, a sign of strength and reproductive prowess. Push out air with your diaphragm, not your throat.
YOUR INTRODUCTION Hold your drink in your left hand, and give her a firm but not bone-crushing grasp. Look right into her eyes. Pay attention to her grip as well: studies have shown that women who give firmer handshakes tend to be more adventurous.
Dress With Authority
By your 30’s, your wardrobe should begin reflecting greater confidence and stability. You don’t necessarily need more clothes—you need better clothes.
QUOTE OF THE ISSUE
Develop a signature. Maybe it’s a great watch, pocket square, leather shoes, distinctive glasses or beautifully tailored jackets. You don’t need to be flashy. One or two recognizable details can become part of your personal uniform.
YOUR APPROACH Her brain quickly vets your height and facial symmetry the moment you meet. Now convince her of your character. Approach confidently; don’t pretend to bump into her. Square up to her, face her directly.
2
UNDER DRESSED FOR PARTIES
It starts with the right shoes. Women notice. You don’t need a ton, you just need 3-4 standards.
3 POORLY TAILORED SUIT
See a tailor. It’s worth it. An ill-fitted suit is as bad as it gets.
ABOUT
6 TOWN
4 BAD COLORS
Know your colors and what works for your skin tone. Don’t mix loud colors.
YOUR ICEBREAKER Compliment her and say something that will get her to talk about herself. “Your friends seem nice— how did you all meet?”
YOUR CONVERSATION We all know to ask lots of questions and avoid flat-out boasting. But don’t sell yourself short. “Women listen very carefully for signs of status and wealth,” says Fisher. Keep any references to financial or personal success oblique, though—let her curiosity draw out the details. Another crucial conversation tip: Talk at the same pace she does, and she’ll consider you intelligent, kind, confident, and ambitious.
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Your Path to the Elemental You Hormone Optimization
Hair Restoration
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PROMOTION
7 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME MORE BEAUTIFUL by Christen Bond at Ray & Poynor A beautiful home is rarely about having more. In the most thoughtfully designed Southern houses, beauty comes from restraint, proportion, craftsmanship, and the way a home welcomes the people who gather there. For those who appreciate both design and entertaining, these seven details can make an extraordinary difference.
1. Edit before you add. The most elegant rooms have breathing room. Remove pieces that no longer serve the space, and allow exceptional furnishings, art, and architecture to command attention. 2. Invest in beautiful lighting. Few changes are as transformative as replacing builder-grade fixtures with thoughtfully chosen lamps, sconces, or chandeliers. Layered lighting creates warmth and makes an evening at home feel instantly more intimate. 3. Bring in flowers—and greenery. Fresh arrangements need not be elaborate. A few branches from the garden or a simple arrangement of seasonal blooms can give a room life, color, and a sense of occasion.
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4. Make every room comfortable. Beauty should invite people to stay. Choose generous seating, beautiful textiles, and fabrics that feel wonderful to the touch. A room that looks lovely but isn’t comfortable rarely becomes the room everyone gravitates toward.
Just Scan Here.
5. Hang art thoughtfully. Art should feel collected rather than purchased to fill a wall. Mix periods, mediums, and scales, and let meaningful pieces tell something about the people who live there. 6. Pay attention to scent. A signature fragrance can become part of a home’s identity. Keep it subtle and consistent, particularly in entryways, powder rooms, and entertaining spaces. 7. Create a place for gathering. Ultimately, the most beautiful home is one that is lived in. Arrange your spaces to encourage conversation—around a dining table, beside the fire, or on a gracious porch. The memories made there will always be the finest finishing touch. ABOUT
8 TOWN
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Mind & Body
THE HEAT IS ON WHAT INFARED TRAINING DOES FOR ME B Y: C O R A N D A L O Z A D A
6
TIPS
FOR DATING Infrared workouts gently heat your body from the inside out. That’s the idea behind infrared fitness studios, where short, high-intensity workouts take place in an infrared-heated environment. The combination of exercise and heat has become popular with people looking for more from their workout than simply burning calories. > INCREASED SWEATING
Sweating itself isn’t a magic “detox,” but it is an important part of the body’s natural cooling system. The increased heat can also make a workout feel more challenging, potentially elevating heart rate and cardiovascular demand. > MUSCLE RECOVERY AND FLEXIBILITY
Heat can increase blood flow and help muscles feel looser, which may make stretching and movement more comfortable. For people who tend to feel stiff before or after workouts, exercising in a warm environment can be particularly appealing. > WHAT ABOUT YOUR SKIN?
The increased circulation and sweating associated with exercise can give skin a temporary healthy glow. Heat also increases blood flow to the skin, while perspiration helps move oil and debris toward the surface. However, sweating isn’t a substitute for cleansing, and anyone exercising in infrared heat should wash their face and body afterward to help prevent clogged pores. Infrared light itself is also being studied for potential skinrelated benefits, particularly certain wavelengths of near-infrared and red light. > AND YOUR HAIR?
The story is similar with hair. Better circulation may support a healthy scalp environment, and infrared light is being researched for its potential effects on cellular activity and hair growth. But there isn’t strong evidence that simply exercising in an infrared sauna will directly make hair grow thicker or faster. Think of any hair benefit as a possible bonus rather than a proven result. Perhaps the biggest benefit is the combination of exercise, heat and relaxation. A warm workout can leave you feeling accomplished and relaxed at the same time. Add regular resistance or cardiovascular training, good nutrition, hydration and adequate recovery, and infrared workouts can be an enjoyable addition to an overall healthy lifestyle.
1: Let go of unrealistic expectations about dating. Distinguish between what you want and what you need in a partner. Wants are negotiable, needs are not.
2: Keep things in perspective.
Don’t make your search for a relationship the center of your life. Concentrate on activities you enjoy, your career, health, and relationships with family and friends.
3: Build a genuine connection.
Focus outward, not inward. Be curious. When you’re truly curious about someone else’s thoughts, feelings, experiences, stories, and opinions, it shows—and they’ll like you for it.
4: Put a priority on having fun.
Instead of scouring dating sites or hanging out in pick-up bars, think of your time as a single person as a great opportunity to expand your social circle and participate in new events.
5: Handle rejection gracefully.
Don’t take it personally. If you’re rejected after one or a few dates, the other person is likely only rejecting you for superficial reasons you have no control over
6: Watch for relationship red flags. The relationship is alcohol dependent. There’s trouble making a commitment. Jealousy about outside interests. Controlling behavior. No one-on-one time.
Revealing Beauty, Not Creating It
Reveal Beauty
At Reveal Beauty, We Reveal The Inner Beauty In You, We Don’t “Create” It.
Upper Blepharoplasty, Lower Blepharoplasty, Brow Lift Deep Plane Face/Neck Lift, Lip Lift, Facial Fat Grafting Abdominoplasty
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(205) 408-9787 revealbeauty.net
Reveal Beauty Plastic Surgery 2871 Acton Road #101 Vestavia Hills, AL 35243
PROMOTION
D•E•J BioStim Skin Treatment
A Better Way to Build Collagen Is Now Available at Gunn Dermatology! When it comes to building firmer, more resilient skin without needles, one treatment is changing the conversation: D.E.J. BioStim by Revision Skincare. This professional-grade, dermatologist-approved treatment delivers a powerful biostimulating infusion at the dermalepidermal junction, leaving skin visibly brighter, plumper, and more luminous, immediately. Whether you’re looking to soften fine lines, smooth crepey texture, or simply restore that lit-from-within glow, BioStim can be customized layer by layer to suit your skin’s needs. Clinically designed to encourage the skin’s own collagen and elastin production, it’s quickly becoming a favorite for those who want visible results without visible downtime. This isn’t a one-and-done treatment, it’s a series. Results build with each session as the skin renews itself, which is why we recommend three treatments spaced two to four weeks apart for the fullest effect. Clients often notice a difference after just one visit. BioStim is an ideal choice for fine lines, visible pores, uneven texture, dullness, early to moderate loss of firmness, and diminished skin elasticity, and it is safe for all skin tones. There are no needles involved, and downtime is minimal. Most clients return to their normal routine right away, with only slight dryness or flaking a few days later for some. Skin looks brighter and more refreshed immediately after the first treatment, with early softening of fine lines. By the second session, texture and radiance continue to improve, and clients typically begin to notice firmer, lifted skin. The third treatment brings the fullest results, with visible improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, smoothness, radiance, and overall firmness. ABOUT
12 T O W N
Each treatment finishes with a soothing hydrating mask, so skin leaves calm, comfortable, and glowing. It’s a wonderful complement to other treatments in your skincare routine, and many clients pair it with regular facials to maintain results between sessions.
What BioStim Can Improve: Firmness and elasticity Fine lines and wrinkles Crepey or thinning skin Texture and visible pores Dullness and luminosity Overall skin quality
Discover the glow everyone’s talking about, with minimal downtime. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call Gunn Dermatology at (205) 415-7536 or text (205) 736-2864.
John Young, MD Orthopedic Surgery
Comprehensive Orthopedic Care To Help You Keep Up With Life. Dr. Young’s interest in sports medicine comes from his background as a former athlete. Training Dr. Young received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, graduating in the top 10 percent of his class. He completed an orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Mississippi in Jackson and a fellowship in sports medicine at the American Sports Medicine Institute in Birmingham.
Dr. Young is a very professional and caring doctor. The surgery that he has performed on me was flawless, with a short and complete recovery. - Joseph O I went to see Dr. Young in the spring due to a torn rotator cuff injury. He did the surgery and after healing, my shoulder has never felt better. He and his staff are absolutely the best. - Margaret L Dr. Young is an amazing doctor that I have been seeing since 1996 and now my family uses him. - R Smith
About Dr. Young Dr. Young is certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. His professional memberships include the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Medical Association, Alabama Orthopaedic Society and AOA Honored (top 10% of his medical class). He has participated in numerous clinical trials researching the effects of pharmaceuticals during orthopedic surgery procedures.
Sports Medicine & Orthopedics Baptist Health Sports Medicine and Orthopedics - Vestavia 200 Montgomery Highway - Suite 125 - Vestavia, AL 35216
Call (205) 822-HELP to make an appointment, or visit precisionsportsortho.com to learn more about Dr. Young.
Mind & Body
IF I COULD ONLY DO ONE THING FOR MY BODY, THIS WOULD BE IT. WHY PROGRESSIVE STRENGTH TRAINING SHOULD BE YOUR TRUMP CARD. B Y : A LY S S A P A R T E N , P h D
Alyssa Parten,who has a PhD in exercise science with a focus on resistance training strategies for women’s long-term health and performance, first picked up weights as an undergraduate student at the University of Alabama almost 15 years ago. Since then, she has competed and coached at the national and international levels in the sport of powerlifting – a strength sport where athletes lift the most resistance they can in a barbell back squat, bench press, and deadlift. For nearly 15 years, Alyssa has focused her professional and academic career on teaching women how to resistance train to transform their physique, their health, and their mentality surrounding exercise.
> THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RESISTANCE TRAINING AND STRENGTH TRAINING
- Resistance exercises are considered any movement where your muscles work against resistance (known as external load) during joint actions. This added resistance forces your muscles to work harder than they normally would to move or control a load. Examples of external load include dumbbells, barbells, machines, cables, kettlebells, and resistance bands. - Strength training falls under the umbrella of resistance training, but with a focus on moving heavier resistances that are closer in proximity to your maximal force capacity. Strength itself is the ability to move the heaviest resistance you can through the range of motion of an exercise one time. The further you get from one heavy repetition the less maximal strength or force is required. Strength is a neuromuscular skill, meaning it requires the brain to communicate with your muscles to contract quickly and forcefully, and we typically train this skill within 1-6 repetitions per set of an exercise. > WHAT DOES STRENGTH TRAINING DO TO TRANSFORM YOUR BODY AND HEALTH?
Strength training became the anchor of my routine. At first, I approached it with a single goal: physical change. But over time, the benefits extended far beyond appearance. I felt stronger, more capable, and more connected to what my body could do, rather than how it looked. • Strength training is effective for building and maintaining both muscle mass and neuromuscular coordination. Without resistance training, you lose 1-3% of muscle per decade after 30, which increases to 6% or higher after the age of 60! Not only does muscle mass loss put you at risk of sarcopenia and osteoporosis, it also is the main reason we see unfavorable body composition changes as we age – not hormone changes. • Strength training improves bone density and joint stability. When we add resistance to our body when performing exercises like squats, deadlifts, rows, and presses, we not only stimulate our muscles to grow, but for our bones to remodel. This is imperative in helping prevent bone fractures and breaks as we age and maintain our physical independence. • Strength training supports heart and metabolic health. Consistent strength training makes our heart pump blood more efficiently, lowers resting blood pressure, reduces risk of atherosclerosis (plaque in arteries) and high cholesterol, decreases blood sugar and increases insulin sensitivity. A lot of big words – but all this to say, strength training improves cardiovascular health, weight management, metabolic rate (i.e., metabolism), and insulin resistance. • Strength training helps maintain independence with age and decrease risk of virtually all chronic diseases - obesity, type II diabetes, sarcopenia, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. ABOUT
14 T O W N
Mind & Body
> 3 COMMON MYTHS WITH STRENGTH TRAINING
> TIPS FOR STARTING A STRENGTH TRAINING PROGRAM
1) “Strength training will make women bulky.”
• Start simple and focus on consistency over perfection. By this I mean, do movements that resemble activities of daily living (squat, push, pull, hinge/pick-up), that focus on main muscle groups (legs, chest, back).
Strength training in and of itself is a skill, one that involved your brain talking to your muscle to contract very quickly to overcome a heavy resistance. In fact, studies show that you can substantially increase strength without large increases in muscle mass. Simply put, getting stronger does not automatically mean getting bigger. The reality is, building large amounts of muscle takes years of very consistent specialized training and nutrition. Most women develop muscle strength, muscle tone, and improved body composition, on top of the numerous health benefits.
2) “Cardio is better for fat loss.”
Strength training supports muscle mass, metabolic health, and resting energy expenditure, making it an extremely effective tool for lowering body fat percentage and improving body composition (higher fat free mass and lower fat mass). Studies have also consistently shown that higher intensity forms of exercise increases fat burning for longer durations of time than low intensity cardio. Just because you may use fat as a fuel source during low intensity bouts of exercise, does not mean you continue burning fat afterwards.
3) “You have to lift heavy to build muscle.”
Research is clear that you can build muscle with virtually any resistance and repetition ranges – the true key is to challenge your muscles limits in the exercise being performed to stimulate muscle development. This means building muscle can be achieved with heavy weights done for a low number of repetitions if that is your preference, or lighter weights performed for a higher number of repetitions. Whatever your preference, do the exercise for as many repetitions as you need, to feel muscle fatigue. Beginner:
Dumbbell Goblet Squat
Sets 3-4
Reps 6-8
Chest Press 3-4
6-8
Kettlebell Deadlift 3-4
6-8
Dbell or Bodyweight Rev. Lunge
2-3
8-10 each leg
Dumbbell 1-Arm Row
2-3
6-8 each arm
Hamstring Curl 2-3
10-12
Dumbbell Carry 2-3
20-60 sec
Plank 2-3
20-60 sec
Intermediate:
Sets
Reps
Barbell Bench Press
3-4
3-5
Barbell Deadlift 3-4
3-5
Dumbbell Reverse Lunge
6-8 each leg
Barbell Squat 3-4
2-3
6-8
Hamstring Curl 2-3
10-12
Dumbbell Carry 2-3
20-60 sec
Plank 2-3
20-60 sec
• Our bodies are built to adapt, and therefore we must continue to challenge them in order to see the improvements we are aiming for. To continue seeing adaptations to our body and health, we have to progress our training gradually over time. See options to progress your resistance training from ‘How to Progress Your Training’ below.
> HOW TO PROGRESS YOUR TRAINING
3. Load Gradually increase the amount of weight or resistance used by about 2.5–5 lbs when your current load feels manageable with proper form. 4. Frequency Increase training frequency from 2 days/week up to 3–4 days/ week over time as tolerated and schedule allows. > CONSIDERATIONS
3-5
Barbell Row 2-3
• Use a resistance that allows you to challenge your muscles in the movements performed but is still controllable – meaning you don’t feel yourself compensating the movement in order to lift the weight chosen.
2. Sets Add 1 additional set (ex: from 2 sets to 3 sets) as your strength and capacity improves.
*Complete 3-4 days per week
Exercise
• The basics work now and always! Build your resistance training sessions around the “Big 5”: squat, press, hinge, pull, carry. Doing so targets the major muscle groups that build your physique and keeps your body functional long term. Think of these exercises as the biggest bang for your buck that never grow stale or quit working, as long as you progress resistance or capacity as you adapt to them. See the sample program below.
1. Repetitions Increase repetitions by 1–2 each week as able while maintaining good form.
*Complete 2-3 days per week
Exercise
• Begin with 2-3 sessions per week with 1-2 days off from resistance exercise in between. After you have been consistent with this for a while, if your schedule allows for it, you can increase to 3-4 days per week.
• Choose just ONE progression method per exercise each week. • Keep the same workout and exercise variations for about 3 weeks before changing the exercise variation. (Can look up different variations on YouTube). • Then restart the example program with the new variations but with similar sets and reps and continue progressing gradually each week. ABOUT
15 T O W N
Ashley Gooden, Madison Hayes, Reese Daniel Baeli Porter, Sherwin Marashi
POOCHES ON THE PATIO Vino’s annual Pooches on the Patio event was a dog-friendly celebration benefiting the Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS). Guests were encouraged to bring their pups to enjoy an evening on Vino’s patio, Mediterranean food, featured cocktails with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and fun with adoptable GBHS pets. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.
Luna, Caden Helms, Summer Cornelius
Bill Smith, Darius Little McCoy Mandujano, Angelina Kim
Sam Postell, Katherine Snavely
al
Tricia Preston, Chuck Carg
ABOUT
16 T O W N
Amy Atkins, Allison Black Cornelius
Bill and Betsy Waudby
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th Leveson,Lela Leveson, Jilian Hill
Fagan Leitner, Frances Mostellar, Elizabe
OTEY’S FEST Otey’s Fest is The Shindig of the year.
Wilson Crane, Riley Brown
Hosted at Otey’s in Crestline Village, the sold-out crowd enjoyed music by Gri Cashio, T.U.B., and Panic Stricken. And raised funds for The Phoenix Club of Birmingham who provides a developmental opportunity for young professional men to become social, business, and philanthropic leaders. It supports the mission of the Boys & Girls Club and further seeks to impact the direction of our community’s youth through fund-raising and interaction. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.
Barkley Allen, Annabelle Reed
Peyton Schidler, Ava Mayberger, Camryn McDonald ABOUT
18 T O W N
Taylor Wolfe, Mia Bottner
Grayson Dykes, Caroline Lester, Laney Green, Mallory Bennett, Rachel Reid, Macy White
Maya Moers, Sparkle Cummings, Olivia Lee
Madeline Crawford, Mattie Patzke, Andrew Jensen, Julia Ferlisi, Peyton Davis
Taylor Wisdom, Grace Green Rose Satriano, Mary Margaret Freeland, Hope Smith, Malia Bush
ABOUT
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Ashlyn Glover, Nicole Kaudfelt, Taylor Phillips Carson Pilgrem, Mary Sluder, Sarah
Hochhaussr, William Wessel
Alice Armstrong, Lauren Paliescheskey, Hannah Jennings, Ella Speake
Shelby Waid, Ashton Story, Molly Beth
Abbie Richenderfer, Caroline Cooper, Madeline Shipman
Hannah Grace Griggs, Ann Cobern Chapman, Claire Litvak, Lily Foley ABOUT
20 T O W N
HOMEWOOD 2814 18th St South Homewood, AL 35209 Ph: 205.703.8596
jjeyesoptical.com
FAIRHOPE 7 S. Church St Ste A Fairhope, AL 36532 Ph: 251.929.0015
PROMOTION
Now is The Best Time to Entertain Outdoors
ABOUT
22 T O W N
Extending the functionality of a home can be as easy as reimagining a deck or patio into a fully functional outdoor room. Ferguson Home offers all the essentials you need to create an outdoor entertaining area you can use both day and night. Whether you’re designing an outdoor kitchen, chic lounging area, or serene sitting area, Ferguson Home has the products you need to make your dream space a reality.
Outdoor Appliances When it comes to making an outdoor kitchen every bit as functional and inviting as an indoor cooking area, it’s all about investing in outdoor-grade appliances. Outdoor appliances are made with the elements in mind and will hold up to the rigors of high and low temperatures, moisture, and direct sunlight. Outdoor refrigerators, beverage coolers, kegerators, ice makers, grills, and range hoods can be mixed and matched to create your ultimate outdoor grilling area.
Outdoor Furniture Making any outdoor room comfortable and welcoming comes down to the furniture put in place. Choosing durable outdoor furniture designed to hold up to the elements will ensure your space will keep looking great season after season. Outdoor dining sets, outdoor sectionals, and outdoor chaise lounges are just a couple of the options when it comes to choosing outdoor furniture. As with any indoor furniture, there are many colors, patterns, styles and materials to choose from, so feel free to use the furnishings as a way to reinforce the overall design style of your deck or patio.
Outdoor Heating & Cooling Creating an outdoor space, you’ll want to use both day and night, is all about temperature management. Outdoor ceiling fans help you breathe in the mid-day heat while patio heaters, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits help warm up cool nights.
Outdoor Lighting Entry Sets Keeping your home secure while you’re away and accessible when you’re home, is easy when you invest in keyless entry sets. These sets are available for both front doors and other exterior doors surrounding the home. They use a programmed door code or even your fingerprints to lock and unlock the door. This makes them a great choice when you have multiple people living in the home.
As the sun goes down, having the right lighting in place will ensure you can use your deck or patio long into the evening. As with any interior room, providing different types of lighting is the key to successful design. Outdoor wall sconces, ceiling lights, post lights, string lights, and landscape lighting should be layered according to the needs of the space.
ABOUT
23 T O W N
Valerie Boyd, Caroline Bundy, Carol Carmichael Coty Hall, Chris Magidson, Michael Hansen Avery Plan, Erin Hos
mer
PICASSO PETS GALLERY PARTY Hand in Paw welcomed 100 VIP guests for an exclusive Picasso Pets Gallery Party celebrating the art, animals, and community behind its signature gala. The evening brought together donors, and 2026 Picasso Pets presenters, current and past participating artists, and Hand in Paw Therapy Team volunteers for a first look at this year’s commissioned pet artwork and a celebration of the mission behind Picasso Pets. The event was sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka. To see the rest of the pictures click the code.
Shelley, Meg and Jeff Schneider
Anne-Laura Cook, Alie Nathan B. Gorrie Reinhard, Erin Prewitt
Laura Power, John Edwards ABOUT
24 T O W N
Alyssa’s look was enhanced with a brow tint and maintenance service.
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client
spotlight
Alyssa Dennis
Mind & Body
LooksMaxxing for Men
HOW PRETTY IS TOO PRETTY?’ We asked a local woman in her late 20s to tell us what she thinks.
One of the most viral trends of the moment, looksmaxxing is a catch-all term for men trying to maximize their physical attractiveness through grooming, fitness, fashion, skincare, cosmetic procedures, and, in some cases, surgery. Think of it as the male equivalent of the obsessive beauty content women have been fed for years, except presented via gym TikTok, Reddit forums, and chronically online performatively masculine content creators. ABOUT
26 T O W N
At the lighter end, looksmaxxing is really a set of harmless self-improvement tips: getting in shape, finding a more flattering haircut, whitening your teeth, using skincare frequently and properly, fixing poor posture, or finally figuring out your true sense of style. At the more extreme end, it becomes borderline shocking. Men online dissect facial symmetry, jawlines, eye shapes, body fat percentages, and “sexual market value” as if attractiveness is a one-size-fits-all science experiment. A number of men are getting fillers, Botox, veneers, hair transplants, testosterone injections, or plastic surgery in their twenties. And unlike past eras where men could openly dismiss focusing on one’s appearance as unmanly, this generation is embracing it fully.
Mind & Body
Who’s Doing It? Mostly Gen Z and younger millennial men. Teenage boys are watching these videos the same way girls watched beauty videos a decade ago. College guys are suddenly invested in fragrances, color palettes, skincare routines, and gym splits. Young professionals are spending serious money to appear sharper, fitter, wealthier, and more masculine online and in real life. In this era, men are constantly exposed to curated images of highly attractive, highly optimized masculine figures: fitness influencers with perfect physiques, finance bros in tailored coats, and luxury lifestyle creators with ideal skin and over-thetop closets. The message is subtle but ever-present: if you want attention, status, or success in dating, you need to improve your appearance. And men believe them.
“I don’t want to date a guy who cares more about his looks than I do.” Who’s Doing What? What’s fascinating is that looksmaxxing is not strictly set to one social group. Beyond gym guys, you see it gaining attention with tech bros, athletes, creative types, and even teenage boys. Male grooming has become normalized in a way it simply wasn’t before. The “entry-level” version of looksmaxxing usually entails:
• • • • • • • •
Going to the gym consistently Losing body fat or building muscle Upgrading clothing and personal style Finding the ideal haircut Sticking to a skincare routine Whitening teeth or getting Invisalign Finding the perfect cologne or fragrance Improving posture and confidence
But the higher-tier version gets expensive fast. Hair transplants can cost thousands. Veneers often run into five figures. Botox requires maintenance. Personal trainers, luxury fashion, cosmetic dermatology, injectable treatments, and hormone clinics all add up quickly. And men are paying for it.
What Women Actually Think About It This is where looksmaxxing culture gets interesting because despite being heavily centered around attracting women, a lot of it misunderstands what women actually respond to. As a woman in my twenties, I can say very confidently: most women are not evaluating men this way. Women notice the overall package. Grooming, confidence, style, health, energy, presence, charisma, emotional intelligence. Not whether your canthal tilt is mathematically ideal. In fact, many women find hyper-fixation on appearance less attractive than the imperfections themselves. Most women I know genuinely appreciate effort. We like men who: • Stay true to their personal style • Take care of their health • Appear confident and grounded But there’s a line where self-improvement becomes obsession. Extremely overdeveloped gym physiques? Mostly admired by men. Ultra-flashy luxury aesthetics? Often reads as performative. Overly sculpted cosmetic work? Frequently uncanny in real life. Women want someone who is attractive to them, emotionally stable, socially competent, healthy, confident, empathetic, and enjoyable to be around.
Honestly, most women see this version as positive. Effort is attractive. Then there’s the more advanced version. But this is where things start escalating quickly: • • • • • • •
How Much Are Men Spending? A surprising amount. Basic looksmaxxing alone can easily run hundreds per month: • Gym memberships • Protein powders and supplements • Skincare products • Better clothing • Haircuts every 3-4 weeks • Grooming products
Botox and filler Hair transplants Jawline contouring Cosmetic dentistry and veneers Testosterone injections and steroid use Hyper-restrictive diets “Mewing” and facial workouts
Some men spend hours in online forums discussing “hunter eyes,” facial thirds, bone structure, or whether a specific jaw angle is attractive to women. Entire communities revolve around ranking male attractiveness as though it’s an exact science. ABOUT
The Bigger Problem Beneath It The darker side of looksmaxxing is that it often feeds on insecurity and feelings of inadequacy. A lot of online male self-improvement culture indicates to men they are fundamentally less than, unless they optimize every detail of themselves. Better jawline. Better physique. More money. More status. More symmetry. More masculinity. But the healthiest version of looksmaxxing is truly just self-respect. Take care of your body. Find your style. Develop confidence. Build a life you enjoy. Improve yourself because you value yourself, not because you believe perfection is the price of love. 27 T O W N
is Save thle schedu n! all seaso
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2026-27 BOWL GAMES SCHEDULE
Dec 12 | 11:00 pm | Cricket Celebration Bowl
Dec 22 | 12:30 pm | Puerto Rico Bowl
Dec 26 | 2:30 pm | Duke’s Mayo Bowl
Dec 31 | 11:00 am | ReliaQuest Bowl
Jan 2 | 6:30 pm | AutoZone Liberty Bowl
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Dec 31 | 1:00 pm | Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl
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Dec 31 | 2:45 pm | Las Vegas Bowl
Jan 14 | 6:30 pm | Capital One Orange Bowl CFP Semifinal
Dec 15 | 8:00 pm | Frisco Football Classic
Dec 22 | 7:30 pm | Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl
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Dec 28 | 1:00 pm | Freedom Mortgage Military Bowl
Dec 31 | 6:30 pm | Kinder’s Texas Bowl
Dec 23 | 1:00 pm | New Orleans Bowl
Dec 18 | 1:30 pm | Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl Dec 18 | 7:00 pm | CFP First-Round Game 1 Dec 19 | 11:00 am | CFP First-Round Game 2 Dec 19 | 2:30 pm | CFP First-Round Game 3 Dec 19 | 6:30 pm | CFP First-Round Game 4
Dec 23 | 4:30 pm | Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl
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Dec 30 | 6:30 pm | Vrbo Fiesta Bowl CFP Quarterfinal ABOUT
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Jan 1 | TBD | Goodyear Cotton Bowl CFP Quarterfinal Jan 1 | TBD | Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl CFP Quarterfinal Jan 1 | TBD | Rose Bowl Game CFP Quarterfinal Jan 2 | 11:00 am | Citrus Bowl Jan 2 | 2:30 pm | SERVPRO First Responder Bowl
Jan 15 | 6:30 pm | Allstate Sugar Bowl CFP Semifinal Jan 25 | 6:30 pm | CFP National Championship Semifinal Winners Allegiant Stadium Las Vegas, NV TBA Games Time TBA | Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl MAC vs. MWC Time TBA | Trust & Will Holiday Bowl ACC vs. Pac-12
TEAR OUT
OFF
BRIARWOOD Moody Homewood WCA Lee-Scott Academy Madison Academy Montgomery Catholic St. John Paul II John Carroll Randolph ACA
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ABOUT
29 T O W N
RAMSAY
MAGIC CITY COCKTAIL CHALLENGE The Magic City Cocktail Challenge brought together Birmingham’s best mixologists for an evening of signature cocktails, live entertainment, activities, and prizes. The event benefited the American Cancer Society’s cancer research, programs, and initiatives.
ABOUT
30 T O W N
Anders found his match JULIE HARRIS Your Neighbor, Your REALTOR®
Congratulations to my buyers and sellers!
FOR SALE
Anders was diagnosed with a rare genetic
FOR SALE
991 FERN STREET
3416 OAK CANYON DRIVE
UNDER CONTRACT
UNDER CONTRACT
878 CALEDONIAN WAY
2700 CHEROKEE ROAD
condition that was affecting his immune health and significantly impacting his overall development. His doctors determined his best treatment option was a bone marrow transplant, and luckily Anders found his match and received
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4619 PINE MOUNTAIN ROAD
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4211 GAINES MILL CIRCLE
his transplant. Now Anders is reaching new developmental milestones and is starting to get back to being a normal kid. SOLD
219 CALTON LANE
Learn more at ChildrensAL.org
SOLD
3537 BROOKWOOD ROAD
A B O U T TOW N I S 20!
THROW
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ISSUE no.36
EVENT
Sept 2010
ag abouttownm follow us @ w Back Events e Thro to see mor
Funky Monkey JUNE 2010
Mims Campbell and Al Blanton
Karen Roberson, Amanda Thames and Leslie Evans
Lisa Krumm and Cie Washburn
Daniel Bolongaro, Jamie Carey, Jeana Lee Fleming, Laurie Avant, Emily Arnold and Halle Ray
Audrey Joseph and Kate Parks
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32 T O W N
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May 2010
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Schoolhouse Rock A NIGHT UNDER
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MARCH 2010
Ball Beaker Bash-Red Nose Schoolhouse Rockrade Ball-Hope Chest A Night in Oz-Masque Art Luncheon-GAGA for RealtySouth Awards o Party Stilett ed Off-R Chili Cook
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34 T O W N
NO TRICKS, JUST SCARY GOOD DEALS. UP TO
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305A Summit Blvd. Birmingham, AL 35243
Ready to find your dream home? I turn dreams into reality. Contact me today to start your home buying journey.
New Options for Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training in Birmingham! Want to learn the proven 100-year-old original Pilates system and enter your new career in top demand? Birmingham has more options than ever before, including truly comprehensive programs offering more than one weekend of training— no knowledge gaps! Streamline Pilates Teacher Training Program (STTP, 450 Hours) Location: AERO JOE PILATES (Near Pepper Place) New Cycle Starts October 2nd!
- Founded in 2010 at Streamline Pilates, Salt Lake City, UT - BHAM Satellite Campus Master Teachers: Alison Page, NCPT (AERO JOE PILATES, 14-Year Founding CEO) and Emily Tincher, NCPT
Hillary Weiss
REALTOR® 205.876.3052 hweiss@arcrealtyco.com
ARC Realty Mountain Brook Office 2718 Cahaba Road Mountain Brook, AL 35223
- Classical/Original Method Training: All-Apparatus with Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Special Conditions Study - Fundamentals to Intermediate Levels (450 Hours). Learn to Teach All Bodies Safely and Successfully! STTP is training the future of Pilates in Alabama! Study of the time-tested complete system: Mat, Reformer, Trapeze Table, Tower, Chair, and more! Spaces are very limited. | Contact us today for best availability!
aerojoepilates.com or info@aerojoepilates.com
O U R TOW N
Charity Spotlight
The Red Barn Founded in 2012 as a family-run operation with one student, it quickly blossomed into serving 100 kids a week with over 100 on the waiting list.
Inspiration
Amanda was recently adopted into a loving home after a rough start in life. Her biological family exposed her to a life of drugs, violence, and crime, and as a result, she was placed in the foster care system. Unfortunately, expensive medical care to address a birth defect and the high legal fees associated with her adoption, meant that Amanda’s family could not afford the therapeutic riding lessons they knew would help their daughter. Her family could only hope that there were enough scholarships left to give Amanda the opportunity to ride.
Who They Support
Children who have communication disorders, cognitive impairments, vision impairments, learning disabilities, and other differences that typically cannot participate in the same school-sponsored or community-led extracurricular activities as typically developing children.
Because of a scholarship allowing her to ride horses, The Red Barn is thrilled to report that Amanda’s dream to ride has finally come true, and she began riding lessons at the barn!
The Mission
The mission of The Red Barn is to provide educational, therapeutic, and equine-assisted programs benefiting individuals with disabilities and special circumstances, especially those living in low-income families. The children who participate at The Red Barn feel accepted, loved, and empowered. While learning to make friends, treat animals kindly, and enjoy nature! ABOUT
How You Can Help
Visit theredbarn.org and give a donation so that more children like Amanda can ride a horse or learn the many ways to volunteer.
36 T O W N
B R YA N T B A N K . C O M
VISIT US AT OUR NEW OFFICE LOCATED 1725 2 8TH AV E. S, HOMEWOOD , AL 35209
AT
Going Further, Staying Local. At Bryant Bank, we’re committed to helping you reach your goals - right here in Birmingham. We invite you to stop by and experience the difference of traditional, personalized banking with your very own Bryant Banker.
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ABOUT
38 T O W N
t sotiful
ueople in ham g n i m Bir
ABOUT
39 T O W N
Mostul Beautif People The
Carlyn McCreary Meteorologist at WBRC 6 News
Beauty can mean so many different things, but as cliché as it sounds, I really do believe it comes from inside. To me, there’s something beautiful about being confident in who you are, embracing what makes you different, and not being afraid to be yourself. I try to go through life with a positive attitude and bring a little bit of joy to everyone I meet, even if it’s just a smile or a laugh. I think when you have that mindset, you start to find beauty everywhere. For me, I find it in getting to live out the dream I’ve had since I was a little girl, helping keep people safe during crazy weather, and getting to do it while simply being myself. Working out and getting enough sleep are definitely two of my best friends when it comes to feeling my best! I’ve learned how important it is to find a workout routine that you genuinely enjoy and that gives you a sense of peace, instead of something that feels like a chore. For me, both exercise and sleep are huge stress relievers and help me feel refreshed and confident. But I would say the number one way I stay beautiful is through my faith. Trusting that God has a plan for my life keeps me grounded, motivated, and grateful. When I’m taking care of myself physically while also staying rooted in my faith, that’s when I feel the most confident and most like myself.
Mostul Beautif People The
Isabella Bertellotti
Company Dancer, Alabama Ballet & Pilates Teacher
To me, beauty is in authenticity. I find beauty in small moments of genuine connection and real joy, like a really good laugh with my best friend. In regard to ballet, I think the most beautiful performances are the ones when the dancers are able to share themselves with the audience. It is extremely vulnerable to be authentically yourself on a stage in front of a ton of people you don’t know, but those are the shows that make people feel real emotions. Even when they aren’t the most perfect performances, they are definitely the most impactful. There is so much beauty in the connection we get to share with the audience!
photo: Christina Hontzas
I stay beautiful by doing my best to take care of myself from the inside out. In order to be the best version of myself, I have to stay in a positive headspace. I do that by connecting with my friends and family (talking to my mom on the phone is one of the most important parts of my day), spending time snuggling my cat, and taking time for myself. I find exercise to be one of the best ways I can take care of myself and support my mental health. Other than ballet class, I love going to the gym, taking Pilates classes (at The Optimist or Essential MVMT!!!), or going for a long walk and getting to spend some time outside. I’ve found that when I feel good on the inside, I can appreciate the beauty around me so much more!
Mostul Beautif People The
Symone Shaw
Owner, Engaged Wedding Library
When it comes to designing for work, I find beauty in our surroundings! From a unique pattern in ceiling moldings, landscape design throughout the glorious gardens in Birmingham, to interior design and architecture! Beauty is truly everywhere. I feel beautiful after a class at my gym, The Roxx (3x a week)), a dressage lesson on my horse (3x a week), and after a run on one of our city’s beautiful trails (6x a week)! Feeling strong goes hand in hand with me feeling beautiful! I highly recommend.
photo: Christina Hontzas ABOUT
44 T O W N
Alyssa Dennis
Recent Colgate University Graduate in Economics & Division and Collegiate Swimmer
To me, beauty is about feeling confident and comfortable in who you are. I find beauty in the little things that make people uniquely themselves. The way someone carries themselves, the energy they bring into a room, and the things that make them genuinely happy are what always stand out to me. I also think there is something meaningful about taking care of yourself, whether that means staying active, spending time with people you love, or simply making time for the things that make you feel your best. As a lifelong student-athlete, daily movement has always been a core part of my routine. Whether I’m swimming, running, or working out, staying active makes me feel my best both physically and mentally. I’m also a big believer in being a little “high maintenance” in certain areas so I can be low-maintenance day to day. I get my brows done by Angela King, who always does an incredible job. Since I’m constantly on the go, it’s one of those little things that helps me feel put together without having to do much.
Mostul Beautif People The
Mostul Beautif People The
April Hooper Weatherly
Children’s of Alabama, Director of Nursing in Behavioral Health Services
Beauty extends far beyond physical appearance. To me, it’s defined by resilience, compassion, kindness, and the humanity that we honor in others. Beauty is revealed by the strength people demonstrate during difficult moments and the support of those who stand beside us through life’s storms.
Beauty is found in connection. The kind that allows you to be vulnerable and show up as your authentic self. It is found in seeing people beyond their circumstances, extending grace without expectation, and recognizing needs that may never be spoken aloud. I don’t believe we were meant to do life alone. There is something beautiful about having people you trust, who truly see you and support you through every season of life. As a healthcare professional, I witness beauty every day in the resilience of our patients and in the compassion, empathy, and humanity my team brings to their work. These moments remind me that true beauty is in the connections we build and the care we show to one another.
Mostul Beautif People The
Lulu Gribbin
Senior in High School • Shark Attack Survivor • Adaptive Athlete • Youth Advocate
I define beauty as something that goes far beyond physical appearance. Beauty is found in strength, courage, kindness, and the ability to keep moving forward, even when life changes in ways you never expected. As a double amputee, I’ve learned that beauty isn’t about having a “perfect” body. It’s about embracing who you are, accepting your differences, and recognizing the strength that comes from overcoming challenges. I find beauty in the people who support me, in the small moments that make me happy, and in the opportunities I have to experience life to the fullest. I see beauty in my ability to adapt, grow, and accomplish things that I once wondered if I could do. Being a double amputee has taught me to appreciate things I may have once taken for granted and to see beauty in moments of progress, no matter how small. I also find beauty in the people who see me for who I am, rather than focusing on what I’ve lost. Beauty is in my life every day—in my relationships, my experiences, my strength, and the fact that I continue to move forward.
photo: Cary Norton
Mostul Beautif People The
Sidney Spencer
Alabama’s 42 News (Formerly CBS 42)
I would define beauty as something, or a quality that stirs admiration and sparks interest. To me, beauty is subjective because everyone sees and experiences it differently. I do believe that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and it has the ability to move someone emotionally or leave a lasting impression. Personally, I find beauty in just about everything. I tend to notice qualities in people, places, things, and experiences that I find admirable. Sometimes, beauty can be found in something as simple as a kind gesture, a meaningful conversation, or a peaceful moment. I think beauty is not always about appearance; it can also be found in character, emotions, memories, and the way something makes you feel.
ABOUT
The first thing I do to stay beautiful is internal work. I feel the thing that makes a person most beautiful is their heart posture. I try to keep my heart soft and pure by staying close to God. I’ve noticed that I remain hopeful and optimistic, despite the challenges life may bring. Physically, I prioritize getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of water, and taking care of my skin. I get off work later than most, but I make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep because it helps me have a better attitude throughout the day. My dad was a model when I was younger, and he always taught me to drink plenty of water and never touch my face with dirty hands. I also prioritize skincare, especially because I wear makeup daily for work.
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Mostul Beautif People The
Zoe Jane Vanche JJ Eyes Optical Boutique
Beauty, to me, is so much more than just physical appearance. I think true beauty comes from within—how you treat people, the kindness you show, and the way you make others feel. I also find beauty in the people I surround myself with. The relationships, love, laughter, and genuine connections in my life are some of the most beautiful things to me. I think when you surround yourself with good, kind, and genuine people, that beauty naturally becomes part of your own life. To me, beauty is being confident in who you are, being a good person, and finding the beauty in the people and moments that matter most. I stay beautiful by taking care of myself and making time for the things that make me feel confident. I love my skincare and beauty routines, staying active, eating well, and taking care of myself overall. I also think so much of beauty comes from within, so I try to stay positive, be kind, and surround myself with people who bring out the best in me. My faith is a big part of that too. I try to give myself grace, rest when I need to, and be content with who God created me to be. At the end of the day, there is only one me, and I think there’s something really beautiful about embracing that instead of trying to be “perfect”.
Mostul Beautif People The
Michele Kendrick Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery
I define beauty as a combination of confidence, grace, warmth, and authenticity. To me, beauty is not about trying to look like someone else. It is about feeling comfortable in your own skin and allowing the outside to reflect the person you are within. I find beauty in the quiet details: a genuine smile, kindness, strength, elegance, and the way someone carries themselves when they feel confident. Working at Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery has only deepened that belief. I have seen how thoughtful facial rejuvenation can help people feel more like themselves again, not different, and there is something very beautiful about that. For me, staying beautiful begins with taking care of myself from the inside out. I try to prioritize wellness, gratitude, confidence, good skincare, and surrounding myself with people who bring joy and purpose into my life. Being part of the team at Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery has also shaped how I think about beauty. I had the unique privilege of seeing Dr. Raggio’s care, precision, and natural results firsthand before becoming a patient myself. That trust gave me confidence in my own facial rejuvenation journey. Ultimately, I believe beauty is best maintained through self-respect, healthy habits, and choices that help you feel refreshed, confident, and authentically yourself.
photo: Christina Hontzas ABOUT
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Layla Hamilton
Oncology Account Manager at Genmab
I believe beauty is about presence, how someone carries themselves, not how they look. It’s confidence, warmth, how they make you feel. I find it in unexpected places: snow-capped mountains, ocean waves, the sound of rain, pink and orange sunsets, and a harvest moon. I’ve grown to find beauty in the chaos of everyday life as a wife and mom of three boys with a full-time job, hectic extracurricular routines bringing the thick pungent aroma of smelly cleats and sweaty socks in my car, and making sure to fit in date nights with my husband. Beauty reveals itself in unpolished moments, tired, real, unfiltered, because that’s when people are most authentic. It’s ignoring the fake reality projected on social media, refusing to fit in a box of unattainable standards, and focusing more on being a beautiful soul on the inside. Staying beautiful starts on the inside for me, being authentic, staying humble, and protecting my peace and energy. On the outside, it’s the little rituals: monthly manis and pedis, regular hair appointments, and eyebrows freshly waxed by Angela King, to whom I’ve been going for more than a decade. I invest in good skincare, wear my favorite perfume daily, and lean toward dainty jewelry, a stack of bracelets and two or three rings always makes me feel a little more put together. Whether I’m wearing something casual, dressed for the boardroom, or wearing an elevated piece from Gus Mayer, I like to feel polished no matter the setting. Most days, that means a ‘no makeup’ makeup look, just enough to feel put together without feeling like I’m wearing a mask.
Mostul Beautif People The
Mostul Beautif People The
Steph Whitaker Effie’s Inc.
How do you define beauty? My friends joke with me about this, but the short answer is excellence. I’m an imperfect perfectionist, and when I encounter something done exceptionally well, whether created by God or man, it makes me pause and admire. In nature, I find excellence in pale pink garden roses and fluffy peonies, a crystal-clear turquoise ocean, and rolling green valleys set against majestic mountains. In the day to day, I find beauty in creative interiors layered with personality and style, the perfect outfit for an occasion, french homes and gardens, a thoughtfully set table, and classic colonial architecture. Excellence is found in the details—in the care, creativity, and intention that elevate something from ordinary to extraordinary. As we all know, beauty shines from the inside, so I try to do things that make me feel good about myself- routine hair appointments and botox, getting exercise, my self-tan face drops, getting at least 8 hours of sleep, spending time laughing with my best friends, and eating healthy (most of the time).
Mostul Beautif People The
Meredith Mann The Peachie Spoon
To me, true beauty radiates from the joy and peace someone carries within. It’s something that shines from the soul… not something makeup, fillers, or perfection can create. Our culture often tells us beauty belongs to youth, but I don’t believe that’s true. While youthful skin and bodies are beautiful, so are laugh lines from a life well lived, gray hair earned through wisdom, and bodies that have faithfully carried us through every season over and over again. I truly find beauty everywhere! In a cozy, lived-in home, the changing seasons, a genuine smile, my first sip of coffee each morning, and the simple moments that remind me to slow down. Beauty is less about appearance and more about gratitude, grace, and a life fully lived. For me, staying beautiful starts from the inside out. I have to begin my day with gratitude and praise because it completely changes my heart and mindset for the day. Otherwise, I I can easily become anxious, overwhelmed, or short-tempered. There’s nothing beautiful about living that way. Taking care of of my body matters too. Learning to keep my blood sugar more stable has been truly life changing. The constant highs and lows left me anxious, moody, and not feeling like myself. When I nourish my body with a healthy nutrient balance and take time to refresh my soul, I feel more peaceful, joyful, and present. To To me, that’s the kind of beauty that never goes out of style.
FOOD
Restaurant Review
Opened last winter in Lane Parke where Post Office Pies used to be, is Locando Brasato, an authtenic Italian restaurant started by the crew who owns Le Fresca downtown. If you’ve been to Le Fresca downtown you’ll notice the similarities, but the menus aren’t directly reflected. Both do share a personal, more casual approach to service and vibe. Having owner Marco Butturini personally attend to your needs downtown, and owner Duaine Clements personally attend to your needs in Lane Parke, is refreshingly common. Both are great guys. Locando Brasato is open Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner. In Italian Locando is a gathering place, and Brasato is a slow braised beef dish. Their motto is live fast - eat slow. All of their pasta, stocks, dough and sauces are made by hand. So even the heavier dishes don’t seem too heavy. They have “authentic Italian techniques that have stood the test of time,” says Duaine. The menu is somewhat seasonal and looks to source local in-season ingredients.
Locanda Brasato 270 Rele St. - Lane Parke (205) 747-0013 locandabrasato.com
“Locanda Brasato is about the kind of Italian food that takes time to make and is worth the wait — food that feels personal and unexpected. It’s a place where Marco and I can bring all the things we love about Italian cooking and hospitality to the table in a new way.” says Chef Duaine Clements
The Food & Drink
We started with a Vermintino Olianas ’24, which was great and a decent price at $11, and the Prosciutto di Parm ($22) with watercress, olive oil and bonny melon. The bonny is a small softball-sized Southeast Asian melon that tastes similar to a pear. It was so simple and so light- a perfect summer dish. ABOUT
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FOOD
Restaurant Review
Next was the sharable Heirloom Tomato Pizza ($19) with pecorino, saba and cured sheep’s milk cheese. Very similar to the their downtown pizzas, but we were told they’re different than Le Fresca’s, but served the same. Not sure what that really means, but it did come with chili oil instead of chili flakes. It was good, although it was tough for the Napoli crust to hold up with the water of the fresh tomatoes. Carbonara can be done super heavy or super light. The Roman way is as simple as it gets, with only pasta, pepper, eggs, cheese and guanciale (cured pork jowl). The ItalianAmerican way is heavier adding cream, butter, garlic and more meat. Not that the Italian-American way is bad but Brasato keeps it traditional with fresh-made pasta and a McEwen & Sons local egg cured in brine. It ($28) was great, but wonder if other less adventurous eaters might be scared off by the raw egg yolk. The Ricotta Cavatelli ($28) served with fresh corn, cherry tomatoes and Calabrian chili, was a light and seasonal dish. We added shrimp, which added to the ticket price, but it was worth it. Like all of their dishes, they’re served to share. One of their most poplar antipasti dishes is the Vela Meatballs ($19) with McEwen & Sons polenta and rosemary. The Veal demi-glace is not overpowering and lets all the ingredients shine. For dessert, was the Strawberry Tiramisu ($13), which was layered perfectly with a custard base and biscottis which kept it from getting soggy like too many tiramisus can be.
ABOUT
The Atmosphere
Like it’s downtown sister, Brasato is warm, elevated and lively with predominantly dark walls and hardscapes. Service is never stuffy and always personal without being inattentive. Situated in Lane Parke, the outside traffic helps give the spot more energy. The Parking
Unlike downtown, it’s not a problem. Lane Parke, however, does have a good problem for them to have when the customers outnumber their parking spots. Parking can be sparse and you may be as close as you’d like. But it’s in Mountain Brook, so there’s no concern for safety. The Bottom Line
Authentic Italian fare with a focus on slow method, traditional approaches, using local and seasonal ingredients. Not too light, not too heavy, with a laid back, but lively atmosphere.
Awful Meh Pretty Good Can’t Wait Amazing! To Go Back
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GOOD TASTE
PROMOTION
By: Scott Atkinson, Wine Manager at PIGGLY WIGGLY IN CRESTLINE
“Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball.” - Jacques Barzun
Jacques Barzun was an incredibly important historian who taught at Columbia University in New York for almost fifty years. Born in France, he was Columbia’s valedictorian when he finished his undergraduate studies before joining their faculty. At this point, dear reader, you may be wondering, “What on God’s green earth does this have to do with a periodic wine column?” Fair question.
Justin Girardin Bourgogne Blanc & Rouge Justin Girardin is the nephew of the much more well-known and more prolific Vincent Girardin. While Justin does not produce nearly as much wine, he is an absolutely wonderful winemaker and person. I’ve had the opportunity to meet Justin a few times and was very impressed by his wines, kindness, and humility. Nothing quite like enjoying good wines made by great people. His red and white burgundies are truly spectacular values.
Just as Jacques Barzun felt that America could not be understood outside the context of baseball, some may argue that dining could be viewed within the context of wine. Now, this is not to say that one must have wine to dine. Wine is not for everyone. Just like baseball is not for everyone. However… both baseball and wine make life better. Or at least Jaques Barzun would say so. Our suggestion? Find a good baseball game, craft a great meal, and pop on down to the Pig where we can assist you with pairing a delicious bottle that will pair with your dining experience. In honor of Dr. Jacques Barzun, a few French wines which are delightful, versatile, and perfect for dining…
Les Vignerons d’Estézargues Côtes-du-Rhône Blanc, Taparas Well now, that is a long name for a bottle of wine. So… I’ll keep it brief. This is one of the most delicious bottles of white wine we have tasted in the past year. Period.
To finish, we hope that all of these wines knock it out of the park for you. “The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been baseball. America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers. It has been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt and erased again. But baseball has marked the time. This field, this game: it’s a part of our past, Ray.” – Terrence Mann
Domaine de Beaurenard Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge The translation of “beaurenard” is “beautiful fox.” Who doesn’t want to sit down and enjoy a meal with a “Beautiful Fox?” ABOUT
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LAST LOOK
See if you can spot the 8 differences in these two pictures from Otey’s Fest.
PUBLISHER Hunt Gillespie DIGITAL ASSISTANT Emma Polham CONTRIBUTING DESIGN Clint Cabiness CONTRIBUTING WRITER Kate Finch Alyssa Parten MARKETING Shannan Beasley Jennifer Lyles Dowdle Brittani Osbourn PHOTOGRAPHERS Jessica Alexander Marie Ghossein Jade Holloway Christina Hontzas ADVERTISING For advertising information, please contact Hunt Gillespie at 205.821.4106 EVENTS To request your event to be featured, please send an e-mail at least one month prior to: info@abouttown.io WEB To see all the features & party pictures, visit: abouttown.io For a list of distribution points visit abouttown.io For detailed info on our readership contact hunt@abouttown.io
8. Guy on left has missing logo on hat.
4. Missing logo on left side tent.
7. Guy on left has bigger can in hand.
3. Guy on right has two armbands.
6. Different fingers on guy facing away on right.
2. Guy on left missing sunglasses.
5. Missing part of black shutter in middle back.
1. Guy on right has longer shirt tail.
8
Can You Spot The Eight Differences?
About Town is published by Gillespie, Inc. P.O. Box 130328 Birmingham, AL 35213 Copyright © 2026 Gillespie, Inc.
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