Issuu

SPRING 2026

ST. JOHNS

MOTHER HOOD

DR. SARAH ADAMS

MODERN FAMILY MEDICINE DESIGNED AROUND YOU

A LEGACY OF WOMAN’S CARE OBGYN ASSOCIATES OF ST. AUGUSTINE

The Subtle Power of THE WOMAN’S EXCHANGE OF ST. AUGUSTINE

SPRING

COVER STORY

Dr. Sarah Adams reimagines modern family medicine with a personal, concierge approach, where clinical expertise meets compassion, motherhood informs leadership, and care is rooted in genuine human connection.

8 Beauty

Lorie Carter answers the questions women are really asking about skincare, aging, and looking natural.

10 Pink, Always

A heartfelt tribute to Kaycee Mullaney.

12 Home & Garden

Amy Miller of Wow Windowboxes brings an artful, elevated approach to exterior living.

14 Raising Boys

Emily Kopec reflects on raising boys with humor, honesty, and heart.

16 Interior Design

Heather West explores how our homes evolve alongside motherhood.

18 Events Recap

Safura Osmani captures the season’s

most memorable moments, from food and wine festivals to cultural gatherings.

20 The Triplet Diaries

Debbie Gaylord reflects on the unforgettable early days of raising triplets.

22 Expect the Unexpected

Taylor Berkowitz reflects on the unexpected path of motherhood, advocacy, and entrepreneurship,

24 A Lifetime of Care

OBGYN Associates of St. Augustine celebrates decades of women’s care through every stage of life.

26 A Legacy for Women

The Women’s Exchange of St. Augustine carries forward a tradition of service and empowering rooted in history.

28 Good Food

Lori Allen reviews 2 locations of The Local and discovers a new favorite.

32 Meet the Maker

Lauren of Shark Cuties Charcuterie transforms gatherings into something memorable.

34 Summer Daze

Local Mom Rachel Morgan Cautero looks ahead to Summer with great ideas for making the most of it.

30 Featured Artist | Koo Han

{FROM LEFT TO RIGHT}

EMILY KOPEC

LORI ALLEN

HEATHER WEST

TAYLOR BERKOWITZ

SARAH RIVERA

CLAUDIA MAYA

SAFURA OSMANI

BETH LEITZKE

LORIE CARTER

REBECCA SCALES

CYNTHIA ZAMBO

RACHEL MORGAN CAUTERO

Contributors

SPRING 2026 | IN BLOOM MODEL - DR. SARAH ADAMS | MAKEUP BY REBECCA SCALES, ELEGANCE ARTISTRY | PHOTO BY SARAH RIVERA, CREATIVE CONTENT BY SARAH AT THE CREATIVE CONTENT STUDIO, ST. AUGUSTINE | SET DESIGN BY JESSICA CHARD, TO THE MOON PARTY DESIGNS

DEBBIE GAYLORD & SUZANNE KLINGEMAN

Capturing Your Brand’s Story

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DR. SARAH ADAMS Concierge Medicine for the

Modern Family.

Photographed by Sarah Rivera, Creative Content by Sarah at the Creative Content Studio in St. Augustine. Set by Jessica Chard, To The Moon Party Designs. Makeup by Rebecca Scales

Ashift is underway in primary care, and in St. Johns, Dr. Sarah Adams of Palm Valley Family Medicine is at the forefront. With her signature bright pink aesthetic, effortless warmth, and distinctly feminine energy, she embodies a new archetype of physician, where clinical excellence meets entrepreneurship, and empathy is practiced with intention, redefining care for a more modern world.

For Dr. Adams, medicine was a calling that began in childhood. As a young girl, she watched her great-grandmother decline, standing quietly in the doorway, observing both the fragility of life and the profound need for comfort at its end. It was not just the illness that stayed with her, but the feeling that more could be done, that someone could step in not only to treat, but to ease, to guide, to be present.

“I remember wanting to be able to help people like her be as comfortable as possible in the end,” she reflects.

That early experience defined how she would practice medicine. From the beginning, she wanted to understand people, their stories, their families, the full arc of their lives. It is this perspective that continues to inform her approach today, where care is relational, anchored in the belief that medicine, at its best, is as much about presence and compassion as it is about clinical expertise. This remains the foundation of her practice today.

“I care for my patients like family, and I truly feel a part of theirs.”

Trained in family medicine, Dr. Adams was drawn to its breadth, enjoying the opportunity to treat individuals as well as entire families across generations. Yet it was within the traditional healthcare system that she began to recognize a growing disconnect. Appointments felt rushed. Physicians were stretched thin. Patients, too often, felt unseen.

That realization became the catalyst for something new. Her concierge-style, direct primary care model is designed to restore what she believes medicine has lost: time, connection, and trust. At Palm Valley Family Medicine, care is intentionally personal, rooted in prevention, longevity, and an understanding of each patient’s life context. It is, in many ways, a return to an older ideal of medicine, reimagined for today.

But Dr. Adams’ story is equally about motherhood.With two young children at home, Lillian, 7, and Liam, 17 months, her days are a careful balance of leadership, caregiving, and presence. And yet, she resists the notion of “balance” as perfection.

“Modern motherhood isn’t about doing everything perfectly; it’s about building a life that reflects your values.”

In this season, she describes life as one of movement and growth, where ambition and nurturing are not at odds, but intertwined. Her children, she says, have made her a better physician: more empathetic, more intentional, more attuned to the realities families face.

This philosophy extends into her leadership as her practice expands. Growth, she has learned, is about trusting others, building the right team, and staying anchored in purpose.

“Leadership has meant learning to delegate, communicate clearly, and create a culture where both patients and team members feel supported.”

That sense of purpose is reinforced by a legacy of strong women. Her mother, who rose from office manager to CEO of a multi-physician group, instilled in her both grit and com-

“Modern motherhood isn’t about doing everything perfectly; it’s about building a life that reflects your values.”

passion. Those values now shape how Dr. Adams leads her practice, raises her children, and shows up in her community.

Still, her vision reaches beyond her own clinic walls. As Chair of the Direct Primary Care Member Interest Group for the American Academy of Family Physicians, Dr. Adams is helping to shape the future of healthcare on a national level, advocating for models that prioritize relationships over transactions and prevention over reaction. At the heart of it all is a simple, yet profound belief:

“When I’m talking to a patient, they are the only person in the room. It’s them and me, and to me, that is sacred.”

It is this reverence for connection, this insistence on presence that defines her work. In an era where medicine can feel increasingly impersonal, Dr. Sarah Adams offers something rare: a reminder that the most powerful care is not just clinical, but human.

HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT SKINCARE, AGING, OR AESTHETIC TREATMENTS? Follow us on Social media and message us directly. Because when it comes to your skin, the right information changes everything.

?Ask Lorie

What Women Are Really Asking About Skin, Aging & Looking Natural

Irecently asked my patients and followers to send in their biggest skincare and aesthetic questions—and they did not hold back. What I love most? These are the exact conversations happening in my treatment room every single day. Most women aren’t doing anything wrong, they just haven’t been given the right guidance yet.

Will I still look natural if I get Botox or filler?

Yes, when done correctly. Botox relaxes the muscles that cause expression lines, while filler restores lost volume. The goal is never to look different, it’s to look refreshed, less tired, and still like yourself. My advice? Look at your provider’s work. Their before-and-afters, reviews, and even how they personally look will tell you everything about their aesthetic practice.

How long does Botox last?

Typically, it lasts about 3–4 months. This can vary depending on your metabolism and muscle strength. If you’re under-dosed, you may “burn through” Botox faster because those muscles are still working.

What

helps dark spots & sun damage?

Very common question. First, prevention matters. Sunscreen use daily (and reapplying) is essential, even indoors. That’s right, indoors! Fluorescent lights, blue light from our electronics, sitting near a window… all of that contributes to photo aging of our skin. For correction, use a combination approach:

• Vitamin C

• Retinol

• Hydroquinone or kojic acid

• Treatments like BBL, IPL, or chemical peels

Consistency is key!

Why do I have dry patches in my T-zone?

Good question! It’s often not true dryness, it’s buildup. Dead skin and product residue prevent your own moisture from absorbing. Start with a good quality cleanser, gentle exfoliation, and medical grade skincare. I recommend products that will help to repair and restore, not just give temporary hydration. I like ZO’s Daily Power Defense for daily use, and Hydrating cream for as needed use for dryness.

I don’t want an expensive routine, what do I actually need?

Gotcha. You want to keep it simple! Start with foundational products like cleanser, toner, gentle exfoliator, Vitamin C, moisturizer, sunscreen in the morning; cleanser, retinol, and moisturizer at night. Consistency and product quality matters more than quantity.

If

you’ve ever wondered…

“Will I still look like myself?” “What actually works?”

“Am I the only one dealing with this?” You’re not alone.

My skin is thinning and I’m seeing lines under my eyes - what should I do?

The under-eye area is one of the thinnest areas of skin, so it shows aging early. Start with hydration and sun protection, then consider collagen-stimulating treatments like microneedling or PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma). These help improve skin strength and thickness over time.

Final Thoughts

The truth is you’re not behind, and you’re not doing it wrong. You’re simply asking the same questions as everyone else and you just haven’t had the right professional guidance that works for you. With consistency and the right approach, you can achieve your goals. Aging well isn’t about looking different, it’s about looking like the best version of yourself…confident, refreshed, glowing, and taken care of!

Lorie Carter is an APRN & Founder of St. Johns Aesthetics and Wellness Center

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Lorie Carter, APRN

I will never again see pink without thinking of her light.

Pink, Always

There are moments when the loss of one person is felt collectively. The sudden passing of Kaycee Mullaney is one of those moments. Kaycee was a rare individual whose presence left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Kaycee was planning to write an article for St. Johns Woman, and we were both excited about it. The ideas she shared around empowerment, abundance, and creating a life of intention felt important, especially for women in our community navigating both personal and professional growth. Her outlook on life was full of possibility. Her work as a money and manifestation coach reflected a deeper philosophy: helping women create full, aligned lives, not just financially, but emotionally and energetically. She believed in working with both the mind and body, blending practical tools with a sense of expansion and self-trust.

I will always remember Kaycee for her welcoming smile, her warm hugs, and the way she truly listened when you spoke. I can still picture her at St. Johns Moms and Bar Societé gatherings, looking beautiful (probably wearing pink), smiling, and greeting everyone with that genuine, open energy that made people feel instantly at ease. That was simply who she was.

To honor her memory, we invited some of her closest friends to share reflections about the impact she made in their lives.

Chanel. I often joke that I may never meet another person who loves pink quite as much as the two of us did—but that little detail perfectly captured Kaycee’s spirit: joyful, vibrant, and unapologetically herself. I will always remember the way she made people feel seen, encouraged, and a little more confident in chasing their dreams simply by being around her.

Amanda Edler von Oetinger

“From the moment I met Kaycee, she was a bright ray of sunshine. She had a unique way of making everyone smile and feel comfortable in her presence. Through our relationship, many lasting friendships were formed. Kaycee will truly be missed and remembered always.”

KAYCEE

Stephanie Vavilala

“Some people move through the world leaving footprints. Others leave ripples, quiet, powerful waves that continue long after they are gone. Kaycee was one of those rare women whose presence created ripples in the lives of so many. She was a bright light, radiating warmth through her smile, her compassion, and the love she so freely shared with others. Kaycee believed deeply in the power of dreaming bigger and encouraged everyone around her to manifest the life they truly desired.

From the moment we met, we connected through laughter, a shared love of all things pink, and a mutual appreciation for

Caroline Kapke

“Kaycee Mullaney taught me how to find gratitude, joy, and abundance in everyday life. She showed me that even the smallest moments deserve celebration and that what we choose to focus on shapes the energy we carry into the world.

Through her daily gratitude and manifestation practice, she taught me how to protect my energy, reframe my mindset, and lead with intention. She taught me that joy is magnetic. When I choose gratitude over frustration and light over heaviness, opportunities naturally begin to flow. The way she lived and the way she taught continues to shape my life every single day, and I know her light will continue to shine through everyone she inspired.

As she always said, “It gets to be easy.”

Rafina Evans

“Kaycee had a way of making you feel truly seen. What I will remember most are the Kaycee hugs. She held on for so long, as if she never wanted to let go. She taught me that there is always time for those we hold dear, and that just one conversation could shift your perspective and gift you a loving friend. We will keep her beautiful spirit alive, always and forever.”

Photo of Kaycee provided by Caroline Kapke

It is with deep love and gratitude we dedicate the Spring 2026 issue of St. Johns Woman to the memory of our beautiful friend, Kaycee Mullaney. Her light remains in the lives she uplifted, the joy she shared, and the love she so freely gave.

The Elevated Exterior

Amy Miller & the Art of the Window Box

When you encounter a window box in full bloom, lush, balanced, and intentional, it evokes something beyond decoration. There is an immediate sense of elegance, a hint of old-world charm, both romantic and refined.This is precisely the feeling Amy Miller, Owner and creative force behind Wow Windowboxes St. Johns, is bringing to the region, an elevated approach to exterior living, where flowers are not an afterthought, but a defining element of how a home is experienced.

What started as a personal ritual has grown into a distinctive, woman-led business rooted in both artistry and craftsmanship. “It started simply and close to home, literally,” Amy shares. A single railing planter at her own house became a seasonal canvas, something she looked forward to tending each spring. “There was something so satisfying about watching it come to life and seeing how much it changed the feel of our outdoor space.”

That sense of joy and her background in retail, where she found fulfillment in creating meaningful customer experiences became the foundation for Wow Windowboxes St. Johns. What makes her work stand out is not just the beauty of the finished product, but the intention behind it. Each design is tailored to the client, as well as the architecture and personality of the home itself.

nature, favoring arrangements that feel organic rather than overly styled. “I’m drawn to things that look the way they might if they’d just been left to grow beautifully on their own, abundant but not chaotic, curated but not stiff.”

As a woman building a business that exists at the intersection of creativity and operations, Amy acknowledges the complexity of balancing both roles. “The biggest challenge has honestly been holding both sides of the business at once, the creative and the operational,” she says. Yet it is precisely this balance that defines her success.

The reward, however, is immediate and personal. “When we install a finished box and a client sees it for the first time, that reaction is everything.”

“For me, it’s all about intention without effort,” she explains. “A window box feels finished when it feels like it belongs there, like it grew out of the home itself.”

Amy approaches each project as both designer and builder, a rare combination that allows her to maintain full creative control while honoring the craftsmanship behind the work. Her aesthetic is guided largely by

In a place like St. Johns, where outdoor living is not seasonal but a way of life, her work takes on added significance. Homes are not simply viewed from the street, they are experienced. Amy designs with that in mind, considering how a space feels as much as how it looks.

Every project begins with conversation and collaboration. From in-home consultations to advanced renderings that allow clients to

“A window box feels finished when it feels like it belongs there, like it grew out of the home itself.”

visualize the final result, the process is as thoughtful as the design itself. “I want to understand how they live, what they love,” she explains. “That trust is everything to us.”

Looking ahead, Amy’s vision is not about rapid expansion, but refinement. “We want to go deeper, not wider,” she says. “We’d rather earn a reputation for something that lasts than stretch ourselves thin.” It’s a philosophy that feels modern and timeless, much like her work. Through Wow Windowboxes, Amy Miller is not just designing arrangements; she is quietly redefining how beauty lives on the outside of a home, and how a woman’s creative vision can take root, grow, and flourish.

Amy with a client in Nocatee

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Raising Boys:

Finding Joy, Strength, and Grace in the Chaos.

By Emily Kopec, Founder Gone 2 Sea Boat Rentals

There’s something uniquely beautiful about being a boy mom. It’s loud, fast-moving, often messy, and deeply rewarding in ways I never could have imagined.

I grew up surrounded by girls; my sister, my mom and her sisters, and eight girl cousins on my dad’s side. An ’80s girlygirl through and through, I lived for Barbies, choreographing dance routines, and neighborhood adventures- some sweet and sparkly, others a little rougher around the edges. (Shoutout to whichever Colonial Road kid invented looping a jump rope through a bike seat so a roller-skating kid could hold on and get dragged behind. Genius? Yes. Safe? Not even a little).

Among all the girls I grew up with, I naturally assumed that one day I’d have a daughter or two of my own.

And then, lo and behold, my first child was a boy.

A boy! I remember thinking, wow, okay… here we go. And just like that, everything I thought I knew shifted. Decorating in blue, boys-themed toys and coming up with a boy’s name... I got into it! When my son was born and I held him for the first time, I fell completely, overwhelmingly in love.

My husband and I always knew we wanted our kids close in age, and before long, we were back at another sonogram appointment. We still laugh about it to this day. The technician barely said a word, casually placed the wand on my stomach, glanced at the screen, and almost nonchalantly said, “It’s a boy.”

Of course it is.

Another boy.

And just like that, it was official- I was a boy mom. A girl, apparently, was not in the cards for me.

Those toddler years were a blur of energy, chaos, and magic. Our house was filled with model train tracks weaving through every room and construction trucks lined up like little parades. You know that meme showing a shark with its jaws wide open above the water, captioned “Rare picture of a shark stepping on a LEGO”? Accurate.

We loved indoor trampoline parks in the winter, zoo trips in the summer, and anything that let them burn off energy. Sometimes I’d spot another extra-energetic boy in the wild at one of these places, and his mom and I would share a knowing glace.

Life with boys wasn’t what I expected- but it was exactly what I was meant to have.

Now, as teenagers, everything has shifted again. My boys have many friends in common but also have their own identities… much like my sister and I growing up. Watching them with their friends, inventing wild, outlandish games and adventures, takes me straight back to the creativity of my own childhood.

Life has a funny way of coming full circle. My sister, who is happily “one and done”, had a baby girl later in life. I love being an aunt to a bold little girl who dances like I did in the living room, dresses up like I did for endless imaginary adventures, and sparkles her way through life.

Here’s what I’ve learned: motherhood isn’t about the version you pictured, it’s about the one you’re given. Whether you’re raising boys, girls, or a mix of both, each path is its own kind of beautiful. Each comes with its own chaos, humor, challenges, and joy.

You don’t get the story you imagined.

You get your story.

And somehow, it turns out even better.

Designing Your Home for Every Stage of Motherhood

By Heather West, Founder, Designs by Heather. Photographed by Elizabeth Anne Photography

I can distinctly remember my home before children. It was carefree, everything in its place, not a thing out of order.

And then one day everything changes. A baby comes home.

As an interior designer, I’ve always believed our homes reflect the seasons of our lives. But nothing makes that truth clearer than bringing a baby home for the first time. Suddenly your home is no longer carefree or perfectly arranged. Things are constantly out of place. There’s barely time to clean it, sometimes barely time to take a shower, and suddenly safety becomes paramount. It’s as if someone flipped your entire home upside down overnight.

This is the first stage of motherhood.

It turns out there are many seasons of motherhood, and as we change through those seasons, our homes often change with us.

In the early years, my home became a bit of a beautiful chaos. There were baby swings, play mats, walkers, and oversized toys that never seemed to have a proper place to live. Storage rarely feels big enough for all of it. At some point, you learn to look past the clutter and simply accept that this is the season you’re in.

Your home becomes part sanctuary, part children’s play place.

You also learn practical lessons quickly. Either you already own furniture in durable fabrics, or you discover very fast that sticky hands and light upholstery are not the best combination. It’s a busy, messy, and incredibly sweet stage all at once. You find the chair that becomes your refuge for late-night feedings, and the soft lighting that makes those quiet hours feel a little gentler.

And then, slowly, the tide shifts.

You move into the busy years. Backpacks by the door. Sneakers scattered across the floor. Homework spread across the kitchen table. Deep conversations as you tuck them in at night.

The teenage years bring closed bedroom doors where baby gates once stood. And suddenly the design questions change. Instead of wondering where all the toys will go, you start wondering if a bigger sofa might keep everyone gathered for movie night just a little longer.

During this stage I began to see how much our gathering spaces matter.

The kitchen isn’t just for meals, it becomes the place where conversations unfold. The family room isn’t really about the sofa, it’s about being together. Good design quietly supports these moments. It invites people to linger. It makes the home feel welcoming and comfortable in ways that are hard to describe but easy to feel.

And now, as my children stand on the edge of their own adulthood, one in college and one about to graduate high school; I find myself in another shift.

The rhythm of the house has changed. The family dynamic changes too. You go from many, to one, to none

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OUR HOMES ARE NOT MEANT TO STAY FROZEN IN ONE CHAPTER OF LIFE. THEY ARE MEANT TO GROW WITH US “

in what feels like the blink of an eye. And with that shift, your thoughts about your home evolve as well.

In this season, I’ve felt the desire to create new spaces. Spaces for hobbies, for quiet mornings, and for rediscovering parts of myself that were patiently waiting during the busier years. At the same time, I find myself thinking about how the home can still hold everyone when they return for holidays and visits.

Motherhood is always evolving, and so is the home. Our homes are not meant to stay frozen in one chapter of life. They are meant to grow with us; to be rearranged, refreshed, remodeled, and reimagined as our families and our lives change.

Because in the end, a well-lived home is not the one that stayed perfect. It’s the one that held every season of the people who lived inside it. The house shifts from nurturing tiny bodies to holding bigger emotions.

Spanish Food & Wine

Culture, Cuisine & unforgettable MoMents

by Safura Osmani 904 With Us

From vibrant food and wine festivals to world-class performances and luxury automotive showcases, the start of the year has already delivered an exciting lineup of experiences across Northeast Florida. This year my husband and I had the opportunity to attend and capture some of the region’s most memorable events, each bringing together community, creativity, and culture in unique ways. Here’s a look at a few highlights that made the beginning of the year truly special.

The Amelia Concours d’Elegance at the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island

One of the most prestigious automotive events in the world, the Amelia Concours d’Elegance showcases extraordinary vintage automobiles, rare collector vehicles, and modern supercars. Set along the scenic coastline of

Amelia Island, the event draws enthusiasts and collectors from around the globe to celebrate automotive artistry and history.

Women’s History Month Celebration at Pena Peck House

Hosted by The Women’s Exchange of St. Augustine at the historic Peña-Peck House, this special Women’s History Month gathering featured an elegant garden luncheon followed by a fascinating presentation from Florida historian David Nolan. Guests learned about more than 20 remarkable women honored on U.S. postage stamps, many with surprising ties to St. Augustine, making for an inspiring afternoon celebrating women’s history and local heritage.

History Month

FSCJ Artist Series

Held at Jacksonville’s performing arts center, the FSCJ Artist Series Broadway production of Moulin Rouge was incredible! The Musical brought laughter, music, and spectacular theatrical energy to the stage.

St. Augustine Spanish Food & Wine Festival

This vibrant multi-day celebration brings the flavors and spirit of Spain to the nation’s oldest city. Guests enjoy chef-driven tastings, curated Spanish wines, live music, and festive gatherings set against the historic beauty of Lightner Museum Markland House & Gardens and downtown St. Augustine. It’s a perfect blend of culinary discovery, culture, and community.

Wings & Wheels Event St. Augustine Airport

A unique event where aviation and automotive enthusiasts come together to celebrate engineering and design. Guests explored vintage aircraft, luxury vehicles, and classic cars up close while enjoying an exciting atmosphere filled with innovation, history, and family-friendly food truck fun.

First Coast Opera Performances

The local performing arts scene shined this season with the beloved production of The Mikado delighted with its humor, colorful costumes, and timeless melodies.

Stay connected & follow @904withus for more updates, recaps, and local event coverage by Safura

Wings & Wheels

FSCJ Artist Series Women’s

Triplet Diaries... 2026

I can’t help but smile looking back at this photo, taken just after our triplets were born. At that point in our lives, we were completely overwhelmed, shell-shocked, really. We already had a three-year-old, and suddenly, we were parents to four children, three of them newborns. I remember thinking , how in the world are we going to do this?

Nothing in my life before or since has ever quite compared to those early years which are strangely suspended in time and memory. I definitely had the sense I needed to be present for these once-in-a-lifetime happenings. I will never forget the day I went in for what I thought was a routine ultrasound and was told there were three heartbeats. WAIT! What? Three babies? As you can imagine, hearing those words was like an out-of-body experience. My mind raced from pure elation to utter fear to disbelief. The doctor was shocked too, and let me know that in over 20 years, his practice had never seen spontaneous triplets before.

From the moment they were born, life became a whirlwind filled with round-the-clock triplet feedings, changings, cuddles, doctor appointments, and trying to squeeze in quality time for my toddler. It was crazy, joyful, unpredictable, and if I’m going to be honest, exhausting, but I rode the wave as best as I could and survived.

When I look back now, with our triplets at 23 and my oldest at 26, I marvel at what it was like to raise these four wonderful humans. What remains most clearly is this: my heart is full. Motherhood, in all its complexity and beauty, has been the most meaningful part of my life. Of course, there were challenges too, like when our son, Jake, was diagnosed with severe non-verbal autism, adding another layer to our journey. Yes, as a triplet Mom, there were many tests and lessons learned, but in the end, it was all good, and mostly joy.

People often ask me how I handled triplets plus one. Even one baby is a lot when you think about all the work required AND all the love,

dedication, sacrifice, and devotion we give to our children. I usually say, “I just did it. I didn't have a choice.” I am only half joking. The truth is we women are capable of much more than we realize. I see it all the time with my friends and acquaintances; these women are seriously supermoms! (Like our contributors Taylor Berkowitz and Emily Kopec)

This issue of St. Johns Woman honors motherhood in all its forms, the unexpected paths, the joy, and the transformation that comes with raising and loving others.

Debbie Gaylord

A Fresh Take on Spring Fashion

By Claudia Maya, Uniquely Claudia Boutique

SSpring always feels like a reset, a return to lighter fabrics, fresh color, and an ease in how we dress and carry ourselves. This season, I’m drawn to refined simplicity, pieces that feel polished, intentional, and effortlessly put together. For me, its about coming back to your personal style, choosing thoughtful, versatile pieces that feel confident, elevated, and truly your own.

pring always feels like a reset, a return to lighter fabrics, fresh color, and an ease in how we dress and carry ourselves. This season, I’m drawn to refined simplicity, pieces that feel polished, intentional, and effortlessly put together. For me, its about coming back to your personal style, choosing thoughtful, versatile pieces that feel confident, elevated, and truly your own.

Florals, Reimagined

Florals return with a more elevated perspective, soft yet structured, romantic yet modern. Style Note: round bold prints with clean neutrals for a balanced, polished look.

Florals return with a more elevated perspective, soft yet structured, romantic yet modern. STYLE NOTE: Ground bold prints with clean neutrals for a balanced, polished look.

Soft Neutrals

White, beige, and tonal dressing set the tone for understated elegance. Texture and tailoring take center stage. Style note: Mix fabrics like linen, cotton, and embroidery to create depth within a neutral palette.

White, beige, and tonal dressing set the tone for understated elegance. Texture and tailoring take center stage. STYLE NOTE: Mix fabrics like linen, cotton, and embroidery to create depth within a neutral palette.

Statement Sets

Matching sets simplify dressing while delivering a cohesive, fashion forward look. Style note: Wear together—or style separately for versatility.

Matching sets simplify dressing while delivering a cohesive, fashion-forward look. STYLE NOTE: Wear together or style separately for versatility.

Polka Dots, Refined

A classic print, reimagined with modern silhouettes and elevated fabrics. Style note: air with structured accessories for a more tailored finish.

A classic print, reimagined with modern silhouettes and elevated fabrics. STYLE NOTE: Pair with structured accessories for a more tailored finish.

Animal Print, Elevated

No longer just bold—animal print is a modern neutral, from subtle textures to soft, unexpected tones. Style note: Style with crisp whites or monochrome pieces for balance.

No longer just bold, animal print is a modern neutral, from subtle textures to soft, unexpected tones. STYLE NOTE: Style with crisp whites or monochrome pieces for balance.

At Uniquely Claudia Boutique, each collection is curated with intention, timeless, expressive, and designed to move with you through the season

The Looks to Try

Brunch: Floral midi, delicate jewelry, neutral sandals

Weekend: Matching set or structured top with denim

Everyday: Statement blouse with tailored or wide-leg pants

Evening: Sleek mini or flowing maxi with bold accessories

Founder St. Johns Moms. Founder The Bar Societé Mother of 3. Partner. Master of Balance.

TAYLOR

Her Unexpected Path: Motherhood, Advocacy and Community

There is a certain kind of woman who does not simply move through a community, she shapes it. Taylor Berkowitz is one of them. As the founder of St. Johns Moms and The Bar Societé, Berkowitz has created more than platforms, she has built spaces where women gather, connect, and grow. What began as a practical solution has evolved into something far more significant: a modern ecosystem of support for women navigating motherhood, business, and identity in real time.

But behind the momentum of what she’s built is something personal, and far more powerful.“Balance is something I’ve stopped trying to ‘achieve’ and started trying to design,” she says. Her days begin early, often before sunrise, in the stillness of morning coffee with her husband before the rhythm of family life begins. From there, her world expands, content creation, partnerships, events, and the constant evolution of two growing businesses, all woven around her most important role: being present as a mother.

It was motherhood that sharpened her focus. “My family is my first priority, full stop,” she explains, a clarity that informs every decision she makes.

That perspective has been profoundly shaped by her experience as the mother of a young child with autism, a reality that has deepened both her patience and her purpose. “It adds a dimension to motherhood that’s honestly hard to put into words until you’re living it,” she shares. What has emerged is a strength, an ability to advocate, to remain steady in uncertainty, and to see the world with a heightened sense of empathy.

“Our weeks look different than most,” she says, describing a life that includes in-home therapies, carefully chosen activities, and a constant attentiveness to her daughter’s development and joy. And yet, within that structure, there is beauty, moments of excitement, like her daughter preparing to begin horseback riding, a therapy known to support children with autism. “Watching her light up about something is its own kind of magic.”

It is this perspective, this awareness that “every person you meet is carrying something invisible” that informs the way Berkowitz leads. Both St. Johns Moms and The Bar Societé are built on honesty not perfection. They are spaces where women are encouraged to show up fully, not flawlessly.

What began as a resource for relocating families, answering simple questions about schools, restaurants, and pediatricians, quickly grew into something more dynamic. “What I didn’t expect was how fast it would platforms include curated content, events, memberships, and a thriving network of women supporting one

Perhaps most striking is how seamlessly her roles intersect. “Watching the two things feed each other,” she reflects, speaking of motherhood and business. Her daughter is growing up witnessing what it means to build something from the ground up, to take risks, to persist, and to create

Looking ahead, Berkowitz is not just thinking about her own success, but about the culture she is helping to shape. “I hope they grow up in a world where women don’t have to choose between ambition and family,” she says.

It is a vision she is already bringing to life.

Quietly, consistently, and with remarkable clarity, Taylor Berkowitz is building something that extends far beyond business, a community rooted in connection, resilience, and the understanding that showing up, even imperfectly, is where

A Lifetime of Care

OBGYN

Associates

of St.

Augustine Celebrates 25 Years Serving Women Across Every Stage of Life

For 25 years, OBGYN Associates of St. Augustine has offered care rooted in expertise and trust. Founded by Dr. Susan Yarian and nurse midwife Barbara Dembek, the practice began with a clear vision: to provide individualized, thoughtful care for the women of this community. Every decision, from the earliest days, was guided by a singular question; what is best for the patient? It is a philosophy that continues to define the practice today: “Without the women of our community, we would be nothing.”

Over the past two and a half decades, that commitment has translated into something far more meaningful. It has created relationships that span generations, patients who first walked through the doors as teenagers and now return as mothers, even grandmothers.

“The biggest compliment anyone can give us is continuing to see us year after year and recommending us to their family

and friends,” says managing partner Dr. Tom Searle.

To care for a woman through every stage of life, from early education to pregnancy, to menopause and beyond is both a privilege and a responsibility. The team is part of the journey from the beginning, as a teenage girl learns about her body, then grows into a young, empowered woman who continues to trust us with her care. “If she chooses to have children, the biggest honor is when she asks us to be alongside,” Dr. Searle shares.

Today, the practice has expanded to include a highly collaborative team of seven physicians, six nurse midwives, and five nurse practitioners, each bringing distinct expertise while maintaining a unified approach. And yet, despite that growth, there is a deliberate effort to preserve something more intimate. The goal is to practice ‘small’, ensuring that each patient feels seen, known, and consistently cared for.

This balance between scale and personalization is evident in their approach to pregnancy care. Rather than a single-provider model, patients are introduced to an entire care team, an intentional structure designed to create both familiarity and confidence. As certified nurse midwife Elizabeth Arnett describes, “By the time a woman is in labor, she’s already met her whole care team. She’s not looking up at a stranger in a vulnerable moment. Along the way, each of us gets to know her a little differently, one provider might be the one she opened up to about her birth fears, another might be the one who explained something in a way that finally clicked. Every provider brings their own way of connecting and their own clinical lens. Together, we fill in each other's gaps. And she gets everything she needs." And as a group ALL the providers meet once a week to discuss office policies and patient plan of care so we all stay on the same page. Providing personalized, up to date care in a cohesive environment is our goal.

In an era where women are more informed than ever, the role of a provider has also evolved. Patients arrive with research, opinions, and expectations shaped by a vast digital landscape. The practice embraces this, guiding women through information with clarity and intention. Doctors and nurses meet with patients one on one to help them sort through that onslaught and pick a plan of care that will work for her unique needs.

At its core, this is what defines OBGYN Associates is partnership built on the idea that it is an honor for a woman to trust the practice with some of her most intimate health care needs. That trust, built over time, becomes the foundation for something lasting, care that adapts as a woman’s life evolves.

Now, with multiple locations across St. Johns County, including a newly expanded office serving the northern region, the practice continues to grow. Advanced offerings, from in-office mammography to hormone therapy, reflect both innovation and accessibility, designed to meet women where they are.

Even as medicine continues to evolve, their focus remains clear: thoughtful growth, consistent care, and a commitment to knowing each patient as an individual. After 25 years, their approach is simple and steady, showing up for women at every stage of life, and doing it well.

With three thoughtfully positioned locations, OBGYN Associates of St. Augustine continues to expand access to care across the region.

St. Augustine (Flagship)

Located within UF Flagler Hospital, this remains the practice’s primary home base.

Palm Coast

A growing office serving an expanding community, supported by a team of physicians committed to building strong local relationships.

North St. Johns County

Conveniently serving World Golf, Nocatee, and Ponte Vedra, this newly designed office offers comprehensive OB/ GYN care along with an on-site mammography suite for sameday appointments—making preventative care more accessible for busy women.

Advanced

Services Include:

• BioTe® individualized hormone replacement therapy

• MonaLisa Touch® vaginal rejuvenation

A LEGACY BUILT BY WOMEN

The Fascinating Story of The Woman’s Exchange of St. Augustine. By Debbie Gaylord

Set in St. Augustine, along one of the nation’s oldest streets, The Peña-Peck House is, at first glance, a striking piece of architecture; coquina walls, an elegant arched loggia, and centuries of stories embedded in every room. But spend time there, as I did during Women’s History Month, and another story emerges, one especially resonant for women: a story of stewardship, resilience, reinvention, and devotion passed from one generation to the next through The Woman’s Exchange of St. Augustine.

I visited the Peña-Peck House as guest of Marsha Chance, Curatorial Chair of the Woman’s Exchange and an archaeologist, Brooke Gast, current President and Laurie Saltonstall, Development Chairperson. They welcomed me into its layered history, escorting me through rooms filled with treasures they carefully maintain and interpret.

One remarkable asepct is the generational continuity that defines the Woman’s Exchange. Many of its members, including Marsha and Brooke, are second-generation participants, women who have grown up within its orbit and now carry its mission forward. It is a living legacy. They keep the organization vibrant by preserving

the house and its history, curating and selling artisan goods created by women, hosting events, and leading immersive, member-guided tours. During my visit, the house was featuring a Women’s History Month exhibit centered on women represented on U.S. postage stamps, featuring Mary McLeod Bethune, one example of the thoughtful, research-driven programming the women create to keep history alive. The result is a collective effort, a powerful expression of what women, working in concert can do.

Built around 1750 by the Spanish Crown for Juan Esteban de Peña, the royal treasurer of St. Augustine, the house was among the finest residences in town. In an era when many homes were little more than two-room dwellings, this was a place of status and substance, with thick coquina walls, a formal garden, and architectural grace that still lingers today. Through the British period, the return of Spanish rule, and the territorial years that followed, the house passed through many hands until 1837, when Dr. Seth Peck arrived, added the second story, and established the home as a family residence for generations.

Above: Members of the Women’s Exchange Inset: Marsha Chance (Curator), Brooke Gast (President) & Laurie Saltonstall (Development)

That family legacy would ultimately save the house. When Anna Burt, descendant of the Peck family and heir to the property, died in 1931, the city faced the burden of preserving the house during one of the hardest economic moments in American history. It was then that the Woman’s Exchange made an offer. As Chance explained, “The ladies of the Exchange came forward” and said, in essence, if they could place their shop there, “we’ll see what we can do to be stewards...That’s why we’re still here since1932.”

Long before it found a permanent home at the PeñaPeck House, the Woman’s Exchange was at work in St. Augustine. Established in the late 19th century as part of a broader national movement that began in the 1800s, the organization was rooted in a simple but powerful idea: women supporting women through skill, craftsmanship, and enterprise. In its early years, the Exchange operated in a series of locations throughout the city, “jumping around,” as Marsha described, adopting wherever space allowed. The Woman’s Exchange helped women who had fallen on hard times, women who had once been financially secure but found themselves without support and without access to paid work. Yet they possessed skills such as lacework, sewing, cooking, and embroidery, talents that could be transformed into

What struck me most was the women themselves: intellectual, curious, capable, and profoundly committed. They spoke of research committees, exhibits, preservation work, fundraising, scholarship review, programming, and the constant challenge of maintaining a historic property, all as volunteers. “We are a working membership,” Gast said. “It’s not a social club. You’re doing something important.”

recalled the effort with admiration: “They really, really worked hard in those days.” Gast added that the women of earlier generations saw the house as “a place where they could come and exhibit their skills to the other women, and serve the community.” It must have been extraordinary; silver trays, carefully set tables, bustling kitchens, and women pouring their time, energy, and pride into every detail.

There is something both ironic and fitting about the Peña-Peck House and the Woman’s Exchange today. A home once built for colonial power and status has become, over time, a place defined by female stewardship, scholarship, history, and community. The house is rich in historical significance, yes, but perhaps its most compelling story is this one: for 135 years and counting, women in St. Augustine have persistently and powerfully built something that lasts.

income. “The whole issue of the woman’s exchange movement,” Chance said, “was to help women…” In some cases, the work was sold anonymously and assigned a number because, as she noted, “it was embarrassing” for some women to need such help.

In St. Augustine, the model flourished. Wealthy visitors came through town. Hotels were busy. There was a ready market for handmade linens, lace, and fine decorative work. What began as a practical support system became something more enduring: a lasting institution rooted in women helping women.

Today, that spirit remains, though it has evolved with the times. The Woman’s Exchange still supports local artisans, with about 90 percent of the goods in its shop made by local makers. “They get 70 percent of the profit,” Gast told me. “We keep 30, which just goes to keeping the lights on.” Beyond that, the organization raises money for scholarships for women over 25 returning to school. Last year alone, they awarded 27 scholarships.

That sense of purpose has defined the Woman’s Exchange for generations. In the later decades, especially the 1950s and 1960s, the women were known for elaborate luncheons and dinners prepared without caterers, often serving impressively complex meals for well over a hundred guests. Chance, whose mother was a member,

Welcome to The Local

BY LORI ALLEN, MY WANDERING FORK

After visiting both locations of The Local, what stood out immediately is that this isn’t your typical restaurant experience. The menu feels fresh and ever-evolving, and every detail, from the food to the atmosphere, feels thoughtful and truly connected to the community it serves.

The owners, Ted Stein and J.C. Demetree of Roost Restaurants, are Jacksonville locals who have drawn inspiration from their travels across the country and around the world. Their vision is simple: to create a place where people naturally gather, whether for a healthy, satisfying meal, a great cup of coffee, or a well-crafted drink to end the day.

The Local – Ponte Vedra

Step inside The Local Ponte Vedra and you’re immediately transported into a warm, inviting space, softly lit wood tones, lush greenery, and an atmosphere that feels like a hidden escape.

My bartender, Matt, crafted a standout espresso martini, rich, smooth, and topped with a velvety foam that made it the perfect start to the evening. What sets the bar apart is the attention to detail: purées, simple syrups, and even their Bloody Mary mix are all made in-house daily, creating cocktails that are as fresh as they are flavorful.

In the kitchen, Chef John Figueroa, a Nease graduate with experience working alongside world-renowned chefs, brings both creativity and passion to every dish. The freedom given to each chef is what makes The Local concept so exciting, menus are shaped by the people creating them and the communities they serve.

Known for his love of steaks and seafood, Chef Figueroa offers rotating fresh fish crudo selections and highly recommends the tartare. One standout is the Cajun Ribeye, prime-grade, perfectly seasoned with a subtle Cajun spice and finished with trinity butter. It’s rich, indulgent, and absolutely worth it.

The Local – Neptune Beach

The Local Neptune brings a completely different energy, lively, social, and effortlessly fun. The bar scene is buzzing, and the Bartender Ashton introduced me to a lychee cocktail that completely surprised me. Bright, slightly tangy, and just sweet enough, it was one of those drinks you keep thinking about long after.

The hot honey chicken is a standout—crispy, juicy, and coated in their signature seasoning, served over house-made slaw with an herb-forward ranch that even a blue cheese loyalist can appreciate. It’s bold, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

For something lighter, the Goatacado salad delivers a fresh mix of goat cheese, arugula, chickpeas, quinoa, tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, and green goddess dressing, balanced, vibrant, and filling.

A Local Favorite, Reimagined

What makes The Local stand out isn’t just the food, it’s the experience. Each location feels different, yet familiar. Thoughtfully designed, community-driven, and rooted in creativity, it’s clear that no two visits will ever be exactly the same.

Whether you’re in the mood for an elevated dinner in Ponte Vedra or a lively night out in Neptune Beach, The Local proves that great food and a strong sense of place can go hand in hand.

A LUXE NEW LIFESTYLE PUBLICATION DESIGNED ESPECIALLY FOR WOMEN IN EVERY SEASON OF LIFE, BLENDING INSPIRED STORYTELLING, ELEVATED STYLE, AND A TRUE LOVE FOR THE COMMUNITY WE CALL HOME.

DEBBIE GAYLORD

PUBLISHER | CREATIVE DIRECTOR DEBBIE@STJOHNSMAG.COM

SUZANNE KLINGEMANN ADVERTISING CONSULTANT SUZANNE@STJOHNSMAG.COM

SARAH RIVERA

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER | PARTNER CREATIVE CONTENT BY SARAH

BETH LEITZKE

BRAND PHOTOGRAPHER | PARTNER ELIZABETH ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY —ST. JOHNS WOMAN BRANDING

LORI ALLEN

FOODIE | WRITER MY WANDERING FORK

KOO HAN

Light, Memory, and the Art of Seeing

There is an intensity to Koo Han’s work, an ability to hold both light and emotion in the same breath. Her paintings do not demand attention; they draw it in slowly, inviting the viewer into something more intimate, more reflective. It is a sensibility shaped not only by training, but by memory of place, of change, and of a world that no longer exists in quite the same way.

Han grew up in Sarawak, Malaysia, surrounded by streams, woodlands, and a landscape.

“I’m very glad I was born at a time when the world was not as polluted. I mean, in the 1980s, when I was five years old, you could see the tiny, shimmering “Least Rasbora” swimming clearly among the aquatic plants in the cool freshwater ponds; the air was so fresh, and the temperature was much steadier and predictable,” she recalls. That early environment continues to inform how she sees the world today, even as she acknowledges how much has changed. “The way I see light today is definitely different. As artists, we train our eyes to be sensitive and to observe our surroundings. There is always beauty around us and it

depends on how we, as artists, choose to portray it.”

That awareness, the tension between what was and what is, runs through her work.

Before fully embracing fine art, Han spent years in graphic design, navigating the structured world of visual communication. Painting, however, was always present. It was only later, after relocating to Orlando and finding the space to create while raising her family, that the path became clear. Encounters with the work of artists like Mia Bergeron and Jeremy Mann proved catalytic. “Their paintings resonated so deeply with me,” she says, “and spurred on my decision to actively pursue art as a career.”

What followed was a shift in purpose.

Han’s work often centers on faces, gesture, and fleeting moments, subjects that allow her to explore the full range of human expression. “I am so drawn to the range of human expression,” she explains, tracing that curiosity back to the Old Masters, artists like Rubens and Caravaggio, whose command of light and emotion first captivated her. In her own work, she seeks to evoke something both immediate and universal: “a sense of joy and vibrancy… along with a sense of kinship and connection.”

That sense of connection is not accidental. It is built through discipline. Studying under Maestro David A. Leffel proved transformative, shifting not only her technique, but her entire mindset. “Every painting must have a strong idea and concept from the very beginning,” she says, describing a process rooted in intention, structure, and an understanding of light as both subject and force.

For all its rigor, her work retains a sense of openness, a willingness to let the painting breathe. “I believe that every painting has a soul,” Han reflects. “I try to show that in all of my works.”

Now based in St. Johns, she has found a new kind of grounding. The local arts community, particularly in nearby St. Augustine, has offered both support and visibility, allowing her work to reach collectors far beyond the region. Still, there is a sense that her practice remains personal, an ongoing search for something just beyond the visible.

When she stands before a blank canvas, she is not only painting what she sees. She is searching for energy, for movement, for emotion that exists somewhere between light, shadow and dream.

VIEW KOO HAN’S WORK AT BUTTERFIELD GARAGE ART GALLERY IN ST. AUGUSTINE

Two Iban Girls (left page) — 30 × 24 inches, Oil on Canvas

Indigenous Girls by the Shore (right) — 20 × 16 inches, Oil on Canvas

A Timeless Beauty (below) — 24 × 36 inches, Oil on Canvas

Whether you’re a photographer, business owner, or content creator, our studio makes it easy to bring your ideas to life. Book the space by the hour for quick projects, or choose a membership to secure your favorite time each month while saving on every session.

thecreativecontentstudio.com

ANCIENT CITY Reimagined

Rise and Shine St. Augustine

There are books that guide you through a place, and then there are books that invite you to see it differently.

Rise and Shine St. Augustine! A Souvenir Book for All Ages belongs to the latter.

At first glance, it presents with the charm of a children’s book, light, whimsical, and visually inviting. But beneath that approachable surface lies something more layered: a thoughtful and quietly joyful tribute to one of America’s oldest cities, designed not only for young readers, but for anyone willing to rediscover St. Augustine with fresh eyes.

Created by local resident Lisa Haas who first fell in love with the city in 2008 before eventually making it home, the book is rooted in lived experience. Years spent walking its streets, photographing its corners, and immersing in its rhythm inform every page. What emerges is a personal invitation to pause, to notice, and to engage.

The structure itself is deceptively simple. While children may be drawn to its sense of play and discovery, adults will find an unexpected companion in the book’s “Adventure Guide,” a curated layer that encourages exploration beyond the obvious. It is this duality, part story, part experience, that gives the book its quiet distinction.

There is also a deeper current at work. The author, a longtime consultant and leader whose work has spanned communities across the United States and internationally, approaches this project with a clear sense of purpose. Her background, rooted in helping others recognize their own potential, translates here into something creative and intentional. This is a book shaped by a desire to serve, to connect, and to celebrate.

Available locally in shops throughout St. Augustine and online, the book extends beyond its pages, with accompanying merchandise that reflects its same sense of warmth and place. Yet the book itself remains the centerpiece, a reminder that even in a city defined by history, there is always something new to see.

Or perhaps more accurately, something to see again, differently.

I photograph creatives and entrepreneurs whose identity is part of what they build.

Imagery rooted in texture, movement, and the rhythm of the work.

Serving Northeast Florida & Southeast Georgia

YOUR PARTY STARTS HERE.

THE SOCIAL SOCIETY EVENTS

Set in the heart of Nocatee Town Center, ( 300 Pine Lake Dr., Ste. E104 Ponte Vedra, FL) The Social Society has become a destination for connection, creativity, and conversation. Here are a few special events coming your way.

April 23 | 7-8pm

Menopause, Hormones & Living Beautifully Longer

Cynthia@themuababe.com

Led by Dr. Sarah of Palm Valley Family Medicine, the evening offers a stylish, science-backed conversation on navigating perimenopause and menopause with confidence. Because, as the evening suggests, this isn’t about slowing down—it’s about strength, strategy, and embracing longevity as the ultimate luxury.

April 28 | 7-8pm

Pilates and Prosecco with Jen. An intimate evening of mat Pilates followed by bubbles and mingling, it’s equal parts wellness and social ritual.

May 3 | 2-4pm

Mother’s Day Crafternoon

Guest are invited into a relaxed, creative afternoon. Designing hand-painted wooden cutting board and spoon, both beautiful and functional, ( focusing on the handles to keep everything food-safe). Whether you go minimal, bold, or completely unique, you’ll leave with a custom piece you’ll love using at home. Sip, socialize, and enjoy a creative afternoon surrounded by other amazing women who deserve a day out. No pressure. No perfection. Just a little creativity, and a lot of you time.

May 6 | 7-8pm

Mother’s Day Night Out

A fresh, feel-good take on bingo with bubbles, laughter, and a room full of women ready to unwind. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest joys, good company and a little friendly competition, are exactly what’s needed.

May 7 | 7-9pm

Sip. Create. Bloom: Mom’s Night Out

Guests design pressed floral glass vases and create fresh bouquets at the flower bar, an evening that blends creativity, beauty, and a sense of calm that lingers long after.

See website for pricing and details | thesocialsociety.com.

SSummer DAZE

ummer break can be intimidating even for the most seasoned mom. Even if you plan to take advantage of summer camps for your kiddos plus hit up the beach and pool, you’ll need other activities to fill the time. Read on for our guide to summer fun, from littles to elementary school-aged kids to teens and tweens. We even threw in a few ideas for mom.

For littles

If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy indoor playspace, then The Little Social is your jam. The space is thoughtfully designed with separate, engaging sections for sensory play, building, make-believe, and more. Another bonus? They have a great coffee shop, too. 145 Hilden Rd., Suite 122, Ponte Vedra Beach.

Kids Empire is your stereotypical indoor kids place in many ways. Think bright colors, loud music, and a dancing dragon mascot who emerges periodically. But the kids love this place, from its jumbo slides to seemingly endless climbing structures. They even have reasonably priced lunch specials for kids, think PB&J, Goldfish, and juice boxes. 8102 Blanding Blvd, Jacksonville.

If you need something a little more structured, try a summer session at Music Together. This summer, there are two sessions, one in Nocatee and one in Ponte Vedra Beach. These interactive music classes meet twice weekly during these three-week sessions. These classes are hands-on and interactive for both you and your child (be prepared to sing!) but the littles love it.

This adventure is two for the price of one. Walk the gorgeous, newly renovated Bird Island Park and try to spot the more than 130 species of birds and various turtles (just don’t feed them!). Then once it gets hot, hit up the well-stocked children’s section of the Ponte Vedra Beach LIbrary. 101 Library Rd.,

By Rachel Morgan Cautero

You’ll want to double up on the indoor playgrounds to beat the summer heat, and We Rock the Spectrum never disappoints. This sensory-friendly indoor playspace features a zipline, trampoline, an assortment of swings, and no shortage of fun. 9357 Philips Hwy #3, Jacksonville.

Truly a hidden gem, the Tree Hill Nature Center can keep little ones busy for hours. Walk one of the seven trails winding through 51 acres of conservation land, then hit up the on-site museum to get an up-close look at snakes, turtles, and the like. The staff is great, too. 7152 Lone Star Rd., Jacksonville.

If you’re in the mood for an outing that both you and your little one can enjoy, try the newly-renovated playground at St. John’s Town Center. Sponsored by Wolfson Children’s Hospital, it features kid-friendly rubber-based flooring and ocean themed climbing structures that kids will love. Plus, it’s shaded and fenced. Once their wiggles are out, load them into the stroller and do some shopping. 4711 River City Dr, Jacksonville (in front of Dicks’ Sporting Goods).

Another solid, time-tested option? The Jacksonville Zoo. In addition to its more than 2,000 animal inhabitants, it has a killer, often-overlooked playground, a schedule of rotating events, and the new manatee exhibit is top-notch. 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville.

For Young kids

This may sound weird, but the Disease Vector Education Center is one of my kids’ favorite spots. Otherwise known as the “mosquito museum,” this place has a helicopter simulator, plenty of creepy crawlies to observe, interactive exhibits, even an insect-themed playground. Plus, it’s free. 120 EOC Drive, St. Augustine.

Photo provided by The Little Social

This newly-renovated park is truly a destination. Located downtown at the former Landing site, Riverfront Plaza boasts a splash pad, giant slides, cargo nets, and best of all, a single entrance for mom’s peace of mind. It will eventually include a cafe and a beer garden, too. 2 W Independent Dr, Jacksonville.

The Block Jax has been the talk of the town in recent months, and for good reason. This outdoor entertainment space has it all, from food and drinks, to a dog park, and live music venue. Most importantly, there’s a fenced playspace for kids with slides, tunnels, hopscotch, board games, and a life-sized Candy Land. 7520 Quarter Mill Drive, Jacksonville.

You’ve probably been to South Beach Park & Sunshine Playground, but it’s the skate park that’s truly the hit. Featuring hills, several shallow bowls and a great vibe (older skaters are super tolerant of littles on scooters), it’s well worth the trip. And if it gets too warm, there’s almost always a snow cone truck parked nearby. Osceola Avenue and South Beach Parkway.

If you have a budding reader on your hands, 2nd and Charles is a must. Featuring both new and used books, plus toys, games, and even records, there’s truly something for everyone. And the deals are top-notch. You can find new Dog Man titles for half of retail price, a must for my household. 4972 Town Center Pkwy., Suite 100, Jacksonville.

In the mood for an overnight? Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland and PopStroke in Daytona Beach are both well worth the drive.

For teens and tweens

Did you know that kids become tweens at age 8? I didn’t either, until my newly-minted 8-year-old informed me. In any case, this group of kiddos may be a bit harder to impress, but The Escape Game, with five different puzzles in varying degrees of difficulty is a good place to start. Our favorite is the playground room. 4720 Town Crossing Drive, Suite 107, Jacksonville

If you have a budding selfie artist, surprise them with a trip to the #XORobot mural by artist Christopher Sweeney. It’s bold, bright, and worth the trip for the photo op alone. 813 Edgewood Avenue South, Jacksonville

Have you ever seen a Highland cow? If not, you need to. They’re the stars of the eponymous Fluffy Cow Cafe, where you can pet, brush, and learn about these fluffy and adorable animals. 4485 SR 16, St. Augustine

Looking for a unique experience? Try a visit to one of the two locations of the Pickle Factory. Sample various pickle-inspired wares, shop pickle-themed gifts, and, well, you get the idea. 5913 St. Augustine Rd, Jacksonville; 239 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine.

Concierge Family Medicine A Personalized Approach to Primary Care

Same-day or next-day appointments

Direct messaging w/ their doctor

Longer, unrushed visits

Transparent, affordable pricing

Home visits when appropriate

A seven-year resident of St. Johns County, Rachel Morgan Cautero writes on all things parenting and personal finance. Her work has appeared in The Atlantic, Forbes, The Everymom, Parents, and more. Rachel has also appeared on Cheddar Life and NPR’s On Point Radio with Meghna Chakrabarti.

Remove the stress and make medical care patient focused

Gather & Graze

There’s something undeniably joyful about a beautifully styled charcuterie board, the colors, the textures, the effortless sense of abundance. For Lauren Yanchunas, owner of Shark Cuties Boards, that joy is exactly the point.

What began as a creative outlet has evolved into one of Northeast Florida’s most sought-after event experiences. “Shark Cuties was started as a fun little hobby,” she says, crediting a friend who first introduced her to the art of charcuterie. “I loved creating trays for friends and family, and showing a different side of my creativity.”

That passion quickly caught on. As requests for custom boards began to roll in, Lauren took the leap, officially launching Shark Cuties. Just three years later, the business is thriving, featured multiple times on First Coast Living, collaborating with local favorites like Total Wine & More at the St. Johns Town Center, and partnering with venues such as The Shanty & Co. in St. Augustine.

At its core, Shark Cuties is about the experience.

“The goal is to turn food into something guests can enjoy and talk about long after the event is over.”

Each board or grazing table is thoughtfully designed to reflect the occasion it serves. From weddings and birthdays

Meet Lauren Yachunas. The creator behind Shark Cuties Boards and the art of elevated entertaining

to corporate events and holiday gatherings, Lauren approaches every project as a blank canvas. Her inspiration is drawn directly from her clients, their style, their story, their celebration.

“Charcuterie is both food and art, edible art that becomes the centerpiece of the event.”

That philosophy is evident in every detail, from her signature grazing tables to her playful “Cutie Cart,” a mobile charcuterie experience that brings an interactive, elevated touch to any gathering. With offerings that range from individual boxes and cups to hands-on workshops, Shark Cuties has created something for everyone, and every occasion.

For Lauren, one of the most rewarding aspects of building her business has been the sense of community. As a woman entrepreneur, she has found both empowerment and connection in collaborating with other local businesses and vendors.

“Knowing that my creativity helps make people’s celebrations even more special, that’s the best reward.”

She encourages hosts to think beyond trends and embrace their own creative instincts.

“Charcuterie is subjective, there’s no right or wrong,” she says. “Don’t be afraid to take chances and make it your own.” Looking ahead, Lauren’s vision for Shark Cuties continues to grow. With new ideas constantly in motion and a strong focus on collaboration, she is building something that extends far beyond a traditional charcuterie company, a brand rooted in creativity, connection, and a little bit of fun.

Because in Lauren’s world, every gathering deserves a centerpiece, and every bite should feel like part of something beautiful.

Continued from page 37 Summer Daze

By Rachel Morgan Cautero

Summer Fun for Moms

Summer isn’t just for kids; moms need to carve out time for fun, too. Make a reservation at Conagree and Penn’s gorgeous farm-to-table restaurant, then mosey around the farm afterwards. (We’re partial to the adults-only dining hours.) 11830 Old Kings Rd., Jacksonville

Opening last year to much fanfare, the Ponte Vedra Wine Bar and Restaurant lives up to the hype. Its Palm-Beach inspired decor and curated list of cocktails, wine, and bites makes the perfect backdrop for your next mom’s night out. Another bonus? It’s female-owned, and the owner is truly a girls’ girl. 262 Solana Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach

If you’re in the mood to be creative, try your hand at Pour! DIY Candle Studio, another female-owned gem. They’ll walk you through the candle-making process, from selecting a vessel and scent to pouring your own wax. There’s also a wine dispenser. Wine and crafts? Count us in. 175 Rainier Lane, Suite 4, St. Johns

If you’re like the rest of BookTok, you’ve probably read a romance novel or two. Find your next read at CandleLit Books, a curated, romance-only shop. There are titles from nearly every genre within the genre, a cozy reading area, and events, too. 8380 Baymeadows Rd Suite 15, Jacksonville.

MICHAEL DUNCAN