LOVE & LIFE The COM PA N Y W E K E E P
SPECIAL EDITION C’EST LA VIE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2026
NEW BEGINNINGS
November 2026
A WEDDING at WHITE CLIFFS MR. AND MRS. CROWLEY
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In this issue On the Cover
118
MOTHER DENIM EVOKES THE MEMORIES AND EXPERIENCES OF GROWING UP IN CALIFORNIA IN THE 1970S: WHAT YOU WORE, WHAT YOU DID, AND WHO YOU GOT IN TROUBLE WITH. IT REFLECTS THE FREEDOM TO BE UNFILTERED, BRAZEN, AND ABOVE ALL, AMUSING—A PERFECT GIFT FOR YOUR “REBELLIOUS,” FASHIONABLE FRIENDS. SEE MORE IN OUR HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE!
Photo courtesy of MOTHER
Brid Fillion and John Crowley met through mutual friends while attending the University of New Hampshire. Their love story includes plenty of travel, adventure, and activity, plus a pictureperfect oceanfront wedding surrounded by family, friends, and touches of home. Their wedding day was indeed magical, as the couple gathered with 150 family and friends for a ceremony atop the White Cliffs Country Club in Plymouth, Massachusetts, overlooking the Atlantic. Their decor reflected the seascape and Brid’s favorite flowers, hydrangeas, with soft blues and white, gold accents, and even some subtle Taylor Swift-inspired details for the Swifties! Read about the rest of their special day on page 18! Photo by Keleigh Michelle Photography
Vie is a French word meaning “life” or “way of living.” VIE magazine sets itself apart as a high-gloss publication that focuses on human-interest stories with heart and soul. From Seattle to NYC with a concentration in the Southeast, VIE is known for its unique editorial approach—a broad spectrum of deep content with rich photography. The award-winning magazine was founded in 2008 by husband-andwife team Lisa and Gerald Burwell, owners of the specialty publishing and branding house known as The Idea Boutique®. From the finest artistically bound books to paperless digital publication and distribution, The Idea Boutique provides comprehensive publishing services to authors and organizations. Its team of creative professionals delivers a complete publishing experience—all that’s needed is your vision.
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FEATURE 18 Wedding at White Cliffs: Mr. and Mrs. Crowley
L’AMOUR 16 26 The Long Way to Forever 32 Petite pause: pause: Weddings at The Standard Spa, Miami
80 Magic in the North Georgia Mountains: Escaping to Uhuburg Castle
86 A Bespoke Weekend: Fostering and Igniting Meaningful Conversations
34 Seven Years Later: A Backyard Wedding in Inlet Beach
40 L’intermission L’intermission:: Wonderment on the Runway 42 There’s No Place Like Home: The String That Led to Thirty-A
48 Petite pause: pause: Dining with a View at Seia 50 Seven Miles, One Chapel, and a
BON APPÉTIT! 92 94 Baking His Way Through Social Media 102 Where Passion Meets the Plate: The Legacy of Chef Tom Catherall
European Honeymoon
LA VITALITÉ 106
56 L’intermission L’intermission:: Flight Mode by Louis Vuitton
108 Life Gets Better With Age: Watersound
58 The Party Where They Got Married 64 Petite pause: pause: Kips Bay Decorator Show House,
Fountains Changes the Game for Retirement Living
New York
INSPIRATIONS 114
66 The Art of a Good Parti
115 Maybe Busy Isn’t Bad
VOYAGER 70 72 Art of Fact(s): A Place to Wander, Get Curious, and Find Something That Feels Completely Your Own
78 L’intermission: Explore “The Riverbed” by Jane Wade
C’EST LA VIE CURATED COLLECTION 118 LA SCÈNE 130 THE LAST WORD 137 AU REVOIR! 142 V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 9
CREATIVE TEAM CEO / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / CREATIVE DIRECTOR LISA MARIE BURWELL LISA@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
FOUNDER / PUBLISHER GERALD BURWELL GERALD@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
EDITORIAL EDITOR JORDAN STAGGS JORDAN@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
ASSISTANT EDITORS K ATIE OGLETREE K ATIE@VIEMAGAZINE.COM CAITLYN BURRUS CAITLYN@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
MEGHAN RYAN ASBURY, ANTHEA GERRIE, TAYLOR HOLCOMBE, MYLES MELLOR, CAROLYN O’NEIL
ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY ART DIRECTOR JACK KIRKENDALL JACK@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
GRAPHIC DESIGNER CALLIE NUNLEY
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
L AUREN ATHALIA, VIKTOR BOYKO, HUNTER BURGTORF, JOSSELIN CHALBAUD, MARION CURTIS, JACK GARDNER, MICHAEL GRANBERRY, LESLIE HOLLINGSWORTH, NICK JOHNSON, JEFF L ANDRETH, CHARLES LINN, MARK LITTLE, HUY LUONG, STEVEN MANGUM, NAOMI MARTHAI, CONNOR O’SHEA, CARLO PIERONI, ROMONA ROBBINS, DAVE WARREN, CHANDLER WILLIAMS, EVERY THING JUST BAKED, GETT Y IMAGES, HIGGINS PHOTO & FILM, KELEIGH MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY, KIANA TATE PHOTOGRAPHY, LIONSGATE, MADDIE BRIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY, MCEACHIN MEDIA, MODUS PHOTOGRAPHY, STARPIX, STM PHOTOGRAPHY, SYDNEY FAITH PHOTOGRAPHY
ADVERTISING, SALES, AND MARKETING DIRECTOR OF MARKETING / AD MANAGER MORGAN CL AYBOURNE MORGAN@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
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BRAND AMBASSADORS LISA MARIE BURWELL LISA@VIEMAGAZINE.COM MARTA RATA MARTA@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
VIE is a registered trademark. All contents herein are Copyright © 2008–2026 Cornerstone Marketing and Advertising, Incorporated (Publisher). All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. VIE is a lifestyle magazine and is published twelve times annually on a monthly schedule. The opinions herein are not necessarily those of the Publisher. The Publisher and its advertisers will not be held responsible for any errors found in this publication. The Publisher is not liable for the accuracy of statements made by its advertisers. Ads that appear in this publication are not intended as offers where prohibited by state law. The Publisher is not responsible for photography or artwork submitted by freelance or outside contributors. The Publisher reserves the right to publish any letter addressed to the editor or the Publisher. VIE is a paid publication. Subscription rates: Printed magazine – One-year $29.95; Two-year $49.95. Subscriptions can be purchased online at www.VIEmagazine.com.
10 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
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Editor’s Note
A REASON to CELEBRATE Finding Gratitude in Every Day
I
have come to recognize an epiphany common to others: The older I get, the more contemplative and introspective I become. Being privileged to wear the badge of “maturity” is a blessing I do not take lightly. The world has always been in a state of change, but COVID supercharged it with one quantum leap after another. We are on the precipice of a world that will look and feel different, especially with all the buzz about the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Every day, the news reports widespread unrest and economic uncertainty, even within our own beloved country, bringing negativity and worry, and rightly so. What is the antidote? The same as it has always been. Take charge of your own life, knowing each day is truly a gift, not just a nice adage. Take charge with a fierceness that won't let you succumb to whatever comes your way as you build your destiny. This may sound trite or far-fetched, but having forged my own path most of my life, I can assure you I have gone against the tide—attempting things far beyond my upbringing and social and financial status. If I gave up and never tried to reach beyond, I would never have had the great fortune of doing what I love and what I am good at. Being an outlier has given me a perspective I otherwise would never have experienced. For that, I am forever thankful. I did this with God by my side every step of the way. The beauty of being human is that we are human—not artificial. We can—to name a few—love, cry, philosophize, contemplate, invent, reproduce, create, and most of all, feel. And we can celebrate the life we’ve been given. I am not refuting that computers that calculate and think faster than we can are of serious consequence. But
AI is built upon our many thousands of years of ingenuity, fortitude, and resourcefulness, aka “blood, sweat, and tears.” Will the student, AI, surpass the teacher? Can it become superhuman? Time may tell. But that does not mean a human is inferior to a machine. Most importantly, the machine can never be omniscient. Only our Creator has that designation. Life is precious, and we are excited to share many weddings in this issue. This is a magical day for the bride and groom, their friends, and family, and it beautifully exemplifies what a celebration of living really is. These gatherings offer joy and happiness, and watching a couple begin their journey together uplifts your soul. Our cover couple’s wedding was one of the most joyous I’ve ever attended. It was perfect in every way. John Crowley wed Brid Fillion on August 22, 2026, at White Cliffs Country Club in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and it was spectacular. I promise I am not just saying this even though the groom is my Godson. Read more of their love story in “Wedding at White Cliffs” by our editor, Jordan Staggs. To the happy couple’s love, happiness, and joy, I pray their union is blessed beyond measure. To Life!
—Lisa Marie Burwell CEO/Editor-in-Chief/Creative Director V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 13
The Creatives We collaborate with talented photographers, writers, and other creatives on a regular basis, and we’re continually inspired by how they pour their hearts and souls into their crafts. Follow these creatives on social media and don’t forget to check out our account, @viemagazine.
IN THIS ISSUE, WE ASKED THE CREATIVES TO FINISH THIS SENTENCE: WHAT’S ONE THING THAT INSTANTLY PUTS YOU IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT?
lamb comes to mind. Then, the summer months bring the gardens to life with tomatoes that should only be eaten with a sprinkle of salt. Fall comes with root vegetables and squash. I always look forward to Thanksgiving for family gatherings around a turkey dinner. Winter, to me, brings slow cooking, braising in wine cuts like veal shin for osso bucco, or short ribs that fall off the bone. I enjoy nature’s bounty!
TAYLOR HOLCOMBE Writer @taylor.sherie.writes
One thing? I simply cannot choose just one. Listening to Bing Crosby on vinyl. Pretending I’m in New York while belting The Pogues’ ‘Fairytale of New York.’ Snuggling up by a toasty fireplace, book in hand and my family nearby. Neighborhoodhopping to soak in all the fabulous Christmas light displays. Decorating sugar cookies and eating my weight in Russian teacakes. Oh, and I’m also kind of obsessed with nutcrackers, so when those bad boys start showing up at Hobby Lobby, it’s on.
"THERE’S JUST SOMETHING ABOUT THE SMELL OF COOKIES BAKING, BEING IN THE KITCHEN TOGETHER, AND KNOWING THE HOLIDAYS ARE RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER."
JUSTIN ELLEN
Baker, Author & Content Creator @everythingjustbaked
Baking cookies with my Nana instantly puts me in the holiday spirit. It’s something we’ve done for years, and it always brings back some of my favorite memories with her. We usually start early and make a bunch of cookie dough ahead of time, then freeze it so the holidays feel a little less chaotic. There’s just something about the smell of cookies baking, being in the kitchen together, and knowing the holidays are right around the corner. Once we start baking those first batches, it officially feels like the holiday season has begun for me. 14 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
ABBY WALSH
CHEF TOM CATHERALL
Certified Master Chef & Restaurateur @cheftomcatherall
I look forward to seasonal changes; it’s the peak seasons that inspire all chefs for menu changes. Spring brings new life to plants that have been dormant throughout the winter months. Spring
Owner, Parti Packs @partipacks
One thing that instantly puts me in the holiday spirit is bringing all the little details together—picking out cute wrapping paper, tying ribbons on gifts, and decorating the tree. I love how those thoughtful touches make everything feel festive and special, especially when paired with a sweet treat and time with family!
La conversation
Season of Extra Gratitude Hurricane Isaias came and went along our beautiful Emerald Coast of Florida, and just like that, we’re reminded how precious home, community, and the people around us truly are. Sometimes it takes a life shakeup to remind us of what matters most—the helping hands, the check-ins, the familiar faces, and the simple blessing of coming together. Here’s to full hearts, brighter days, stronger communities, and countless reasons to be thankful. Be sure to tag @viemagazine in your holiday activities!
@thenonmuseum.project Once one of the world’s most powerful Cold War radio stations, Radio Liberty now stands abandoned on the Costa Brava. Thank you to @viemagazine for featuring The Non Museum Project in their October Art + Design Issue, with the full story on p. 84.
@velocityrestorations Scenes from @carsof30a. See you next year! @nickleenichepr Kicking off October with a nice 7-page feature for PHINA Designs and their second New Eidyn penthouse project in US magazine VIE! Words & Interview by Anthea Gerrie. Photography by Zac&Zac. This colorful penthouse has all that the owners wished for and more. With spectacular far-reaching views from the enormous terrace and the very best shopping Edinburgh has to offer immediately downstairs, this is an address that will never go out of fashion. PHINA Designs cast their multi-award-winning creativity and expertise over what was an awkwardly shaped, characterless penthouse, creating a home from home that truly reflected the owners’ tastes and the way they were going to use this property.
@moonstone.mn Being included in VIE Magazine’s Art + Design Issue feels especially meaningful. This feature tells a fuller version of the Moonstone story, from my beginnings in construction to the way Nicaragua, travel, old homes, color, art, and craftsmanship continue to shape how I think about design today. At the center of it is something I come back to often: “I would rather you recognize the person who lives in the house before you recognize the designer who created it.” Thank you to @viemagazine for giving so much space to the story behind the work and for telling it beautifully.
LET’S TALK! Send VIE your comments and photos on our social media channels or by emailing us at info@viemagazine.com. We’d love to hear your thoughts. They could end up in the next La conversation!
VIEmagazine.com
V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 15
L’amour
For more information, visit INROLondon.com. Photography courtesy of INRO London
L’ amour IT’S ALL YOU NEED.
The idea of “something borrowed” is taking on a more personal meaning as couples look to family heirlooms for pieces to carry into their wedding day. In one recent example, a bride’s mother’s Cartier Baignoire wristwatch was given a new chapter through a bespoke strap created by INRO London in collaboration with couture house Phillipa Lepley, with details inspired by the bride’s gown. Her groom’s vintage Cartier Tank was personalized similarly, creating two distinctive pieces that retained their family histories while becoming part of a new one. The approach reflects a shift in luxury toward objects with provenance, craftsmanship, and emotional significance, with bespoke ateliers like INRO London adapting treasured watches rather than replacing them. For modern couples, the result is something far more personal than a new accessory: an heirloom that continues its story.
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Wedding at White Cliffs Mr. and Mrs. Crowley
By Jordan Staggs Photos by Keleigh Michelle Photography 18 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
L’amour
F
or a couple whose love story includes a lot of travel, adventure, and activity, a picture-perfect oceanfront wedding surrounded by family, friends, and touches of home was just the ticket.
of course, Brid said yes! After the romantic picnic, the newly engaged couple spent the rest of the day exploring Florence by Vespa and celebrating with an incredible meal and great wine.
Brid Fillion and John Crowley grew up in Gilmanton and Peterborough, New Hampshire, respectively. They met through mutual friends while attending the University of New Hampshire, but didn’t become a couple until after graduation, when they reconnected while both still living along the state’s seacoast region. After a few years of dating, then moving in together, they became engaged during a trip to Switzerland and Italy in the summer of 2024.
The future bride and groom enjoyed a two-year engagement while planning their wedding between more trips together, building their careers, and training for marathons!
was training for five!). I would consistently joke that it was our honeymoon. We’re certainly planning for some relaxation in our future, but we’ve enjoyed traveling to some very cool places while watching Brid chase her dreams of becoming a six-star marathon finisher. We’re both competitive, ambitious people, and it is a testament to the both of us that we continue to work through hard things together.”
“We’re both competitive, ambitious people, and it is a testament to the both of us that we continue to work through hard things together.”
John recalls, “We started the trip in Zurich for a Taylor Swift concert—Brid is a big Swiftie—and then made our way to Venice, Florence, and Rome. From boat rides through the Venetian islands to cooking and wine tasting courses in Florence, our trip was a full culinary experience throughout Italy.” Around the middle of the trip, while they were in Florence, John rented a white Vespa and drove Brid up into the countryside near the city for a picnic overlooking the Tuscan hills. Of course, it was the perfect opportunity to pop the question, and
“At the end of last year, we both entered the lottery system to run the Berlin World Marathon in Germany,” John explains. “Brid is an avid marathoner, having run Chicago at the end of 2025, Tokyo and London in the first half of 2026, then Berlin in September. Brid has now completed four out of six Abbot World Marathon Majors and is slated to run the New York City Marathon in November to complete her fifth.” He continues, “So, to add to the wedding planning stress, we were both training for a marathon (Brid
The race to the finish line of their wedding on August 22, 2026, was also exhilarating. Brid took the reins on planning during their engagement, working closely with wedding planners Sara Lynch and Cheryl Notartomaso at White Cliffs Country Club in Plymouth, Massachusetts, after they selected the venue.
“We both love the ocean landscape, so we knew our venue would have to be near the water,” John and Brid share. “We looked at several different venues from Portland, Maine, to Cape Cod. When we came across White Cliffs Country Club, we knew it was perfect for us. Sara and Cheryl made the planning and coordination completely seamless for our special day. We wanted a venue with stunning views that could hold our ceremony and reception all in one. The staff at White Cliffs made it so we could completely focus on having the best day possible with our closest friends and family.” V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 19
T
hat day was indeed magical, as the couple gathered with 150 family and friends for a ceremony atop the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. Their decor reflected the seascape and Brid’s favorite flowers, hydrangeas, with soft blues and white, gold accents, and even some subtle Taylor Swift-inspired details for the Swifties! As with any outdoor wedding, the weather brought some week-of-event stress. “Leading up to the day, there was a tight eye on the forecast,” says Brid. “Months of planning were seemingly going to be washed away by a severe thunderstorm. As we headed down to the venue, all thoughts and prayers were going into the weather clearing up. On the morning of, there was stress that the rain would impact our ceremony. But as luck would have it (and against all weather reports), as soon as guests arrived, all rain stopped, and we enjoyed a beautiful ceremony and reception along the ocean cliffside!” The magic of the weekend also included a sunset cruise rehearsal dinner aboard the Pilgrim Belle paddlewheel boat in Plymouth Harbor and a post-reception after-party at Tavern on the Wharf. The small, intimate moments meant the world to Brid and John as they celebrated their nuptials. 20 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
L’amour
“Some special moments for me were seeing Brid in her wedding dress—she was even more beautiful than I could’ve imagined—and sharing every bit of the day with her,” says John. “Our dog Kilo also was able to join us down the aisle, and I know she was happy to be part of the wedding. The food at White Cliffs was incredible, along with the wedding cake that Brid’s cousin made!” Brid adds, “I loved everything about our day! From getting ready in the morning with my girls to our private vows at our first look, being able to attend cocktail hour, and dancing at the reception—everything! I was so happy to see the dance floor fully packed all night with everyone having a great time.” And although marathons in Berlin and New York make for special experiences together, the newlyweds still have a “real” honeymoon coming soon without the 26.2-mile caveat! The couple shares, “We are planning a honeymoon in the spring to Italy and Greece. We’ve been eager to get back to Italy since our engagement. Spending more time relaxing in each other’s company with good food and wine is something we’re really looking forward to.”
Congratulations to the Crowleys! V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 21
“The staff at White Cliffs made it so we could completely focus on having the best day possible with our closest friends and family.”
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L’amour
Special Thanks from the Happy Couple Photography: Keleigh Michelle Photography was a true partner in capturing the whole day, from the getting-ready photos to wedding party shots, personal headshots, and everything throughout the wedding. Her ability to capture every special moment didn’t go unnoticed and helped us preserve some great memories. KeleighMichellePhotography.com
Venue (White Cliffs Country Club): Huge shout-out to Sara Lynch and Cheryl Notartomaso for their support and organization. We brought a ton of decor to personalize the venue, and Sara did an incredible job coordinating every detail of our day, leaving us stress-free! WhiteCliffsCC.com
DJ: Cape Tunes was awesome at helping keep our timeline perfectly scheduled and keeping the dance floor full of people and high vibes with great music. CapeTunes.com
Florals: Stems in Style, a local florist in the Plymouth area, made beautiful floral arrangements for the ceremony altar and Brid’s bouquet. The rest of the florals around the venue were made by Brid and John themselves. StemsinStyle.com Cake (Made from Scratch by Allison): Allison is Brid’s younger cousin who recently started her own baking company—and thank God she did! Allison made a beautiful two-tier cake that seamlessly fit into Brid and John’s wedding theme. Each tier was a different flavor, including carrot cake and lemon-blueberry, both with buttercream frosting.
Hair and Makeup (The Beauty Barracuda and The Capes Mane): This hair and makeup duo was so much fun to work with! Brid and the girls could not have asked for a better team to help them get ready that morning, making them feel beautiful and confident! TheBeautyBarracuda.com, TheCapesMane.com
V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 23
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L’amour
For Abbie Harrelson and Trey Diggs, love began long before either of them knew what it was.
he two first met at just nine years old in Box Elder, South Dakota, where their military families happened to be stationed. From fourth through seventh grade, Trey spent countless hours at Abbie’s house, playing with her and her brothers in the backyard. They became close friends, unaware that the friendship they were building would eventually become the foundation for a lifelong love story.
Trey, who had gone on to play professional basketball in Europe, was home in Florida and spending time in the Tampa area. Abbie lived in Bradenton and coached at IMG Academy. Both were invited to the same dinner with mutual friends from high school, neither knowing the other would be there.
When Abbie’s family moved to Houston, Texas, just before she started eighth grade, she and Trey stayed connected through FaceTime, text messages, and social media. Years later, their paths crossed again when both families moved to the Niceville, Florida, area. They became classmates once more and graduated from the same high school, though romance still wasn’t quite on the table. After graduation, life took them in different directions. Abbie attended the University of Florida, where she competed in track and field, while Trey played college basketball at Florida Southern College, Northwest Florida State College, and Bowling Green State University. They remained friends for a while, even attending a comedy show together, before eventually losing touch for nearly four years.
After four years apart, they immediately picked up where they had left off. This time, however, they were both single and finally in a place in life where they could explore the connection that had always been there. They spent the next few days catching up on the years they had missed. A couple of months later, they decided to give their relationship a chance. For the next three years, they built a relationship that was anything but conventional. Trey played professional basketball in Europe, so the couple spent roughly nine months each year long-distance. Abbie visited him for a few weeks at a time, and Trey made trips home whenever his basketball schedule allowed.
Then, one summer, everything changed.
By Katie Ogletree | Photography by Maddie Briggs Photography V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 27
t wasn’t always easy, but after years of moves, distance, and missed time, they knew what they had was worth the effort. By the time Trey proposed, he had already been carrying the ring for nearly a year. He purchased it in January 2025, then waited until the following November to finally pop the question. Trey was playing basketball in Romania that season, and when he learned Abbie would be visiting him in November, he began planning a four-day getaway. They settled on Mallorca, Spain—a place neither had visited before. Trey wanted the proposal to be somewhere breathtaking, so he searched for one of the island’s highest points, with sweeping views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. He found it at Cap de Formentor. After a journey that included poor weather, a hailstorm, and a near-disaster at TSA when the ring almost gave away the surprise, the couple made their way up the mountain. Trey still wasn’t entirely sure where he would propose; Apple Maps only took them so far, and he continued looking for the right spot as they drove. When they reached the very tip of the cape, he saw a small peak overlooking the water—exactly what he had been searching for. They parked, climbed over a few rocks, and Trey said a few words before getting down on one knee. Abbie said yes through teary eyes and a squealing smile. Although Trey had arranged for a photographer to capture an engagement session the following day, the proposal itself was theirs—just the two of them at the top of Cap de Formentor. They were married seven months later. On June 20, 2026, Abbie and Trey welcomed 120 guests to The Palm Mansion in Umatilla, Florida. When they began searching for a venue, Abbie knew she wanted the wedding to feel approachable and intimate, like an elevated gathering in a beautiful backyard. She called the vision “backyard chic.” She explored venues across Florida but struggled to find one that matched both her aesthetic and the practical needs of a June wedding until she found The Palm Mansion. The property immediately stood out for its Italianinspired landscaping, tall slender trees, and, most importantly, its magnificently preserved fountain. Abbie could instantly envision the ceremony there, with cascading florals flowing down the fountain to create the altar. The venue also offered something essential for a Florida summer wedding: air conditioning and a thoughtful rain plan. That plan ultimately came in handy when thunderstorms forced the ceremony indoors, but instead of compromising the atmosphere they had envisioned, the couple embraced the property’s glass-walled Collins Conservatory. Guests arrived to welcome drinks in the air conditioning before 28 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
L’amour the ceremony, then moved into the main house for cocktail hour and returned to the conservatory for dinner. The result was an indoor celebration that still felt connected to the beauty of the outdoors. If there were one word Abbie would use to describe the wedding day, it would be “happy,” she says. Friends and family repeatedly commented on how the newlyweds seemed to spend the entire day reveling in the joy of being together. Their wedding party was equally present, surrounding them with encouragement and support from morning until the final moments of the reception. The day began with Trey joining Abbie at the girls’ house, where the couple spent the morning on Lake Dora studying the Bible and praying together, inviting the Lord into their wedding day. Abbie then got ready with her bridesmaids, hair and makeup artists, and some of the women closest to her. Her bridesmaids surprised her with handwritten letters filled with encouragement and love. There were plenty of tears, but even more gratitude. “I walked into the day with so much confidence, not just in Trey and myself, but because I knew how deeply the people around us believed in our marriage and supported us,” Abbie says. Abbie carried her “backyard chic” vision through every detail, including a striking all-white dress code. Women were invited to wear summer whites, while men wore black suits with white shirts. The resulting palette was clean, elegant, and cohesive, allowing the natural setting and emotional moments of the day to take center stage. The choice also became one of the wedding’s most talked-about details when a video from the celebration eventually went mega-viral on social media, reaching 23 million views and sparking plenty of conversation about the bride’s decision to invite guests to wear white. For Abbie, however, the aesthetic was never about blending in. She wanted the palette’s simplicity to create a setting where she could stand out in other ways, and she certainly did. Perhaps the most unexpected design detail of the wedding was the bridesmaids’ bouquets—because they weren’t bouquets at all. Inspired by her love of the unexpected, Abbie dreamed up custom handbags completely covered in white button mums. With help from her mother, Kasey Harrelson, Abbie built the structure of each miniature handbag using chicken wire and dry floral foam. The day before the wedding, approximately 1,200 stems of button mums arrived at the family’s home. The bridesmaids and several special women in the family gathered to carefully place the flowers into the foam, transforming each structure into a tiny floral purse. The finished bags were both playful and
elegant, perfectly capturing Abbie’s desire to make the wedding feel intentional without feeling predictable. Among the most sentimental moments of the reception were the dances Abbie and Trey shared with their parents. Abbie and her father, Dr. Bradley Harrelson, danced to “Cinderella” by Steven Curtis Chapman, a song their church had used for a daddy-daughter dance when Abbie was in elementary school. The fatherdaughter pair worked with Emily Bainbridge, a choreographer at Emerald Coast Theatre Company, to create a dance that told the story of a little girl growing up. There were plenty of steps to remember, which helped keep the tears at bay until the very end. Once they reached the final turn and no longer had choreography to concentrate on, father and daughter could simply take in the moment. Then it was Trey’s turn. He and his mother, Laura Diggs, took the floor to Drew Baldridge’s “Can She Have This Dance.” They swayed together and sang along as their guests gathered around them. About a minute into the song, however, the mood changed completely. The mother-son pair surprised everyone by transitioning into “Soulja Boy.” The room erupted, guests rushed toward the dance floor, and the party never really slowed down. By the end of the night, the dance floor was still packed, and the newlyweds were practically forced off of it. After the celebration, the couple headed to Jamaica for a honeymoon at Excellence Oyster Bay. Abbie knew she wanted a secluded beach destination that was still relatively easy to travel to, but Trey took over the planning. He handled the flights, transportation, and resort, keeping every detail a surprise. For Abbie, that made the trip even more special. Trey chose Excellence Oyster Bay for its secluded, chic atmosphere, and the couple found it the perfect place to unwind after their wedding. Their recommendation? Consider upgrading to the Excellence Club tier for access to additional restaurants, private pools and beach areas, and upgraded room amenities. In the end, the details were only part of what made the day so memorable. Abbie and Trey’s wedding celebrated a relationship that had already weathered moves, distance, different states, different schools, professional basketball seasons, and four years of barely speaking. They had known each other since they were nine. They had grown up, gone their separate ways, and found each other again. And on June 20, surrounded by the people who loved them most, they finally got to celebrate the part of their story they had been building toward all along: forever. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 29
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Special Thanks Photographer: Maddie Briggs Photography, MaddieBriggsPhotography.com Beer: To commemorate Trey and Abbie’s roots in the Florida Panhandle, Abbie’s dad, Dr. Bradley Harrelson, coordinated with Reese from Odd Pelican Beer to stock the bar with Seaside Suds so we could have a touch of 30A with them in Central Florida. The famous Seaside weiner dog trademark on the cans was a sweet way to pay tribute to their home region. Instagram.com/oddpelicanbeer Caterer/Bar: Uncommon Catering – Owners Travis Smith and Tara Vernau-Smith curate the menu based on the couple’s preferences and make planning approachable through tastings and personalized menu building. UncommonCatering.com Content: Content by Morgan Lee – “A content creator was the last thing we added on, and we are so grateful we did!” Abbie says. “Within 24 hours of the event, we had 1,500 short clips to help us relive and debrief the day!” Instagram.com/contentbymorganlee
Videographer: Sierra Amore Films, Instagram.com/sierraamorefilms Rentals (Umbrellas): Oak and Ash Events, OakandAshEvents.com Planner: Roots To Stems, RootstoStems.com Venue: The Palm Mansion, ThePalmMansion.com DJ: White Rose Entertainment, OrlandoDJ.com Florals: Springvine Design, SpringvineDesign.com
Bridesmaid Florals: DIY by Abbie, Mom, and Bridesmaids Cake: Wright’s Gourmet House, WrightsGourmet.com Hair and makeup: Looks by Zuk - Savannah Zuk, Instagram.com/looksbyzuk Dress: Truly Forever Bridal, TrulyForeverBridal.com Suit: Men’s Wearhouse, MensWearhouse.com Vacation home rentals: Home in Mount Dora (Bridesmaids’ house); The Nantucket (Trey and Abbie’s wedding night)
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Petite pause
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The Standard Spa, Miami Beach is a waterfront destination wedding venue on Belle Isle overlooking Biscayne Bay. The property offers couples tropical gardens, waterfront spaces, stylish indoor-outdoor venues, and wellness amenities for everything from ceremonies and rehearsal dinners to welcome receptions and postwedding brunches. Highlights include the Meditation Garden, Bayside Dock, and Monterrey Bar, while accommodations, hydrotherapy experiences, spa treatments, and Lido Bayside Grill allow couples and their guests to turn the wedding into a full Miami getaway. For more information and to book your stay, visit StandardHotels.com. Photography courtesy of The Standard Spa, Miami Beach
The Standard Spa, Miami Beach reimagines the traditional destination wedding, offering couples and their guests a celebration that feels as restorative as it is memorable. —STANDARD HOTELS V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 33
SEVEN
Years Later
A Backyard Wedding in Inlet Beach BY CAITLYN BURRUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIANA TATE PHOTOGRAPHY 34 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
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FOR CALLIE AND MASON NUNLEY, THE WEDDING THEY WANTED WAS NEVER REALLY ABOUT FINDING THE PERFECT VENUE. IT WAS ABOUT FINDING THE PERFECT FEELING.
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fter seven years together, the Niceville, Florida, couple wanted their February 28 wedding to feel less like a traditional wedding and more like an elevated backyard dinner party.
The idea was simple, but finding the place to bring it to life was anything but. Callie searched through 30A rentals looking for a home with a yard large enough for fifty guests, a separate outdoor space for dinner, a kitchen that could accommodate a private chef, and, most importantly, no beach in the backyard. After narrowing the search down to just two properties, she found the one: 195 South Wall Street in Inlet Beach, an Echelon Luxury Property rental. With its grassy yard, brick-paved driveway, pool, and deck, the home gave Callie exactly what she had envisioned. The setting was especially meaningful because the wedding was the culmination of a relationship that had been growing for years. Callie and Mason both grew up in Niceville and attended the same middle
and high school, but they never officially “met.” Instead, they became friends through tennis practices and tournaments before dating their sophomore year of high school. By the time they exchanged vows, they had been together for seven years. Mason proposed on November 2, 2024, just a week before their dating anniversary. Callie admits she knew it was coming. After years together, she could pick up on his tells, and when Mason announced that he had forgotten his phone before an anniversary dinner, she knew exactly what was happening. He had planned a private proposal at sunset in a downtown Pensacola park where they often walked, followed by dinner at George’s Bistro, where their parents and siblings waited to celebrate. Callie treated wedding planning as a labor of love, handling nearly every detail herself with help from her mother. She knew what she wanted, even if getting there meant analyzing every possible option. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 35
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he final result was understated but thoughtful, with black and white as the foundation and pops of raspberry red woven throughout. White and cream florals were arranged in an ikebana style, while candles added warmth to the dinner tables. Callie designed the welcome sign, menus, place cards, and custom matchboxes herself, carrying the elevated dinner-party concept through every detail. The wedding weekend began before the wedding itself, with family and friends staying together at the house. The night before, everyone pitched in on the finishing touches, from making flower-filled ice molds for the wine bottles to preparing homemade cocktails. For the signature “Mint-to-be Mojito,” Callie’s best friend Elizabeth even hand-squeezed two massive bags of limes. The wedding morning was just as Callie had hoped: slow, relaxed, and spent with her bridesmaids. Then, at 3:30 p.m., the ceremony began in the yard.
Callie describes the moment with one word: REVERENCE.
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“THEY DIDN’T NEED A GRAND BALLROOM OR A PACKED DANCE FLOOR. THEY JUST NEEDED A BEAUTIFUL BACKYARD, A LONG DINNER TABLE, AND THE PEOPLE WHO HAD BEEN THERE ALL ALONG.” 38 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
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A
fter seven years of memories, growing up together, and waiting for this chapter to begin, standing in that backyard surrounded by the people who had shared so much of their lives made the ceremony feel like the culmination of everything that came before.
Following the ceremony, the celebration unfolded naturally. An extended cocktail hour gave the couple time to take portraits with family and friends while appetizers were passed and drinks were poured. Carefully curated playlists set the tone throughout the evening, and the couple shared simple first dances before settling in for the part Callie had been looking forward to most: dinner. Grayze Provisions served a three-course plated meal that included a panzanella salad, shrimp and corn maque choux, and a choice of roasted chicken or filet. For Callie, sharing an exceptional meal with the people they loved was non-negotiable. The evening continued with heartfelt speeches from Mason’s brothers, Parker and Luke, and Callie’s sister-in-law, Aubrey, and her best friend, Elizabeth. No DJ or dance floor. Instead, guests stayed around the table, eating, drinking, and talking well into the night. Even the getaway stayed true to the couple. Guests lined both sides of the driveway with ribbon wands as Callie and Mason made their exit, creating one of the couple’s favorite photos from the day. Their getaway car was Mason’s old gold 2000 GMC Yukon, affectionately known as the “Golden Nugget,” the same car that took them on dates back in high school. After a Sunday spent lingering with family over brunch, the newlyweds left Monday morning for their honeymoon in California. They flew into San Francisco, then drove up the coast to Elk, where they stayed at Harbor House Inn, a cliffside property overlooking the Pacific with a two-Michelin-star restaurant. The trip was a chance to slow down after a whirlwind wedding season while experiencing California for the first time together. They explored the redwoods, drove the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, enjoyed a spa day, and visited nearby coastal towns before finishing the trip in San Francisco. There, they walked through Chinatown and Little Italy, visited Fisherman’s Wharf and the San Francisco Museum of Art, and ended their days with live jazz and street music.
From a backyard ceremony in Inlet Beach to a cliffside inn along the California coast, Callie and Mason’s wedding was ultimately about the same thing it had been from the beginning: making space for the people, places, and moments that mattered most. After seven years together, they didn’t need a grand ballroom or a packed dance floor. They just needed a beautiful backyard, a long dinner table, and the people who had been there all along.
Special Thanks Flowers: Our Greenhouse, Our-Greenhouse.com Photography: Kiana Tate Photography, KianaTatePhoto.com Catering: Grayze Provisions, GrayzeProvisions.com Cake: Delta Baking Company, @delta_baking_company Dress: Margaret Ellen Bridal, MargaretEllenBridal.com Hair and makeup: Sabrina Seymour of Kendra K Beauty, KendraKBeauty.com Rentals: 850 Event Rentals, 850EventRentals.com Day-of coordinator: Chelsea McBrien Weddings & Events, ChelseaMcBrienWeddings.com
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L’intermission
Find the entire collection at AnnaSui.com. Photography by Huy Luong
Wonderment on the Runway This Spring/Summer 2027 collection by Anna Sui explores enchantment and discovery through layers of romantic florals, opulent embellishment, nostalgic lingerie, lace, crochet, luminous satin, and fantastical prints. It is a wardrobe built through accumulation and curiosity, where one discovery naturally leads to another. The Lilac & Black Fairytale scarf print and Beardsley & Nouveau Florals unfold across a kimono-sleeve jacket and matching robe. An Heirloom Embroidered halter top pairs with Cabochon Bejeweled jeans, while a Mauve Denim lace-up corselette and jeans finish with delicate floral lace appliqué. The result is a world where the familiar becomes romantic, dreamlike, and newly illuminated.
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Love, VIE xo
There’s No Place
The String That Led To Thirty A 42 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
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Some love stories seem to follow an invisible string, quietly weaving two people through the same places, circles, and seasons of life until the timing is finally right. For Melissa Porter Hannahan and Kyle Clarke Pugh Jr., that string stretched from their hometown of Mobile, Alabama, through UMS-Wright Preparatory School, the University of Alabama, and even the same college apartment building before finally leading them to each other.
By Morgan Claybourne Photography by Leslie Hollingsworth
The two had crossed paths countless times before they ever went on a date. Although they both grew up in Mobile, attended school together, and later attended Alabama at the same time, it took Melissa moving back to Mobile from Birmingham for their story to finally begin. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 43
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ur friends had always wanted us to get together, and after our first date, everything fell right into place,” she shares. “We dated for a year before getting engaged in the 30A area of Florida. My parents were building a house on the golf course, on the same property where we would later have our rehearsal dinner. The day of the proposal, Kyle suggested we go for a golf cart ride, and when we got to their lot, he proposed. Afterward, we went back to my parents’ house, where both our families were waiting to celebrate with us. It was truly perfect!” On March 14, 2026, that long-awaited love story came full circle at Camp Creek Inn, where Melissa and Kyle celebrated their wedding surrounded by 300 of their closest family and friends. By the time they began planning, 30A already held a special place in their relationship and family history. With Melissa’s parents having a home in the area and being members of Watersound Club, on top of the couple already spending years making memories there, choosing the venue felt like bringing their story home. “Camp Creek Inn felt like a natural choice for us,” Melissa says. “We already had so many wonderful memories there, and we loved the idea of bringing all of our favorite people together in a place that felt so meaningful and familiar to us. It truly felt like the perfect setting to celebrate our wedding weekend.” With Studio08, Inc. overseeing the planning, Melissa and Kyle enjoyed the process without getting lost in the details. Their planner handled everything from start to finish, giving the couple the freedom to focus on the parts of wedding planning that felt exciting and personal. “The planning process was such an enjoyable experience for us!” Melissa says. “Having a planner we trusted allowed us to really enjoy our engagement and focus on the fun decisions without feeling overwhelmed by all of the logistics behind the scenes.” When the big day arrived, the couple leaned into the coastal setting without letting it dictate the celebration. The 5:30 p.m. ceremony at Camp Creek Inn featured music from Marvelous Strings, with Parker Sanders serving as officiant. Wildflowers brought V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 45
the floral vision to life with classic white blooms and lush greenery, while shades of blue, soft whites, and creams kept the overall look light and timeless. “Our wedding day was joyful, elegant, and full of personal touches,” Melissa says. One of those details began before guests even arrived. It’s Inviting created the couple’s save-the-dates, invitations, ceremony programs, cups, koozies, and napkins, all incorporating custom artwork that became a thread throughout the celebration. The artwork carried into the wedding design appeared on the tent backdrop, tying the paper details into the reception space. Shuler Studio created the couple’s monogram crest, adding another personal touch. The reception continued the ceremony’s relaxed elegance, with Camp Creek Inn handling catering and bar service and Main Attraction keeping the celebration going. Guests enjoyed signature cocktails and an array of food stations before hitting the dance floor. Betty Weber created the wedding cake, complete with delicate hummingbird details. “We also loved our signature cocktails, incredible food stations, and hummingbird-detailed wedding cake,” Melissa says. Inside the reception tent, Panache provided rentals, Party Tables supplied the draping, and Snider Bros. handled the lighting. Even the smaller details received thoughtful attention, including monogrammed hand towels from What-aStitch. But the most memorable moment of the night was one no one in the crowd expected. In the middle of the celebration, Melissa and Kyle surprised one of the groomsmen with a birthday celebration on stage. The band joined in, the crowd sang along, and confetti cannons made the moment even more unexpected. “It was such a fun moment we will never forget!” says Melissa. From transportation to beauty and photography, many talented teams helped fully bring the weekend together. Emerald Coast Transportation coordinated transportation and trolley service, while A Bride’s Ride provided the couple’s departure car. Leslie Hollingsworth Photography captured the wedding day, with Cecile Creative documenting additional moments as the couple’s content creator. Jessica Price did Melissa’s hair and makeup, while Courtney Matthews handled the bridesmaids’ makeup. In the end, Melissa and Kyle’s wedding felt like more than just another beautiful day in 30A. It was the culmination of a story that had been unfolding for years through shared hometowns, familiar faces, college hallways, and a place that had already become part of their lives. What began with two people repeatedly crossing paths eventually led them to the same aisle, surrounded by the people who had been cheering them on all along. That is the magic of The Invisible String Theory. Sometimes, you do not see where it is leading until you look back and realize it was there the whole time.
Cheers to the Pughs!
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Special Thanks Planner: Studio08, Inc., @studio08events Venue, catering, and bar: Camp Creek Inn, @watersoundclub Band/DJ: Main Attraction, @musicgardenbands Ceremony Music: Marvelous Strings, @marvelousstrings Officiant: Parker Sanders Cake: Betty Weber, @betty_weber_cakes Florist: Wildflowers, @wildflowers_fairhope Photographer: Leslie Hollingsworth, @lesliehollingsworthphoto Content Creator: Cecile Creative, @cecile.creative Hair and makeup: Jessica Price, @jessicaprice30 Bridesmaids’ makeup: Courtney Matthews, @youneedblush Rentals: Panache Lighting: Snider Bros, @sniderbrosllc Transportation: Emerald Coast Transportation, @ecltransportation Departure car: A Bride’s Ride, @abridesride Invitations, party favors, and programs: It’s Inviting, @itsinviting Monogram crest: Shuler Studio, @shulerstudio Drapery: Party Tables @partytables_linensanddrapery Monogrammed hand towels: What-a-Stitch
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Seia is a contemporary Italian restaurant on the 54th floor of 830 Brickell in Miami, created by OKO Group and The Bastion Collection. Located beneath the private Seia Club, the destination combines Italian-inspired design, elevated dining, contemporary art, and sweeping views of Miami and Biscayne Bay. Its interiors incorporate Italian craftsmanship and Miami-inspired textures, while an extensive art collection featuring works by Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst, and George Condo makes art central to the experience. For more information and to view the menu, visit SeiaMiami.com. Photography courtesy of Seia
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Petite pause
Each dish reflects a balance of precision and restraint, allowing clarity of flavor and a sense of place to define the experience. —SEIA V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 49
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ERIC TRAPP and GRACE EENIGENBURG CELEBRATE THEIR LOVE STORY in SEASIDE, FLORIDA. or Eric and Grace Trapp, Seaside has always been more than a place to visit. Eric grew up in the beloved beach town, and over the years, it became just as special to Grace. On May 23, 2026, the couple returned to The Chapel at Seaside to exchange vows before 160 of their closest friends and family, many of whom traveled from across the country to celebrate. With a reception on the Seaside Lyceum Lawn, a packed dance floor, and a few unexpected moments along the way, they had a wedding they won’t soon forget. Their story began during their first year at Florida State University. Grace, originally from the suburbs of Chicago, met Eric through mutual friends who thought their shared faith would make them a good match. Both were still finding their footing in college, and Eric had even filled out several transfer applications before meeting Grace. After their first date, those applications were never submitted.
On December 21, 2024, Eric proposed during a sunset walk on Grayton Beach, Florida, returning to the same spot where he had asked Grace to be his girlfriend three years earlier. He arranged for a photographer to capture the proposal without Grace knowing, even suggesting they crash a photo shoot on the beach. Little did she know, the entire scene had been arranged for her. When it came time to choose a wedding venue, Seaside was an easy decision. Eric’s parents had always dreamed of seeing one of their children get married there, and the Chapel held special meaning for the couple, too. Celebrating in Eric’s hometown honored their family while starting a new chapter of their own. Planning a wedding while finishing their senior year at Florida State was a balancing act. Between classes, graduation, and the many decisions that come with planning a celebration for 160 guests, the couple had plenty on their plates. With the help of Stephanie Tate of Savoir Faire Weddings, they managed to enjoy the process—especially the
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tastings, which Eric admits were his favorite part. They were equally excited by their guests’ enthusiasm, including several of Grace’s relatives who rented a fifteen-passenger van and drove down from Indiana.
visit from the Walton County Fire Department. Thankfully, the situation was quickly resolved, and Grace left with a memorable photo of herself in her getting-ready attire alongside the firefighters.
The wedding morning offered two very different experiences for the bride and groom. Eric began his day with a seven-mile run, followed by a football game on the croquet lawn with his groomsmen and family members, before settling in to watch baseball. Grace spent the morning getting ready with her bridesmaids in the home where Eric grew up, a detail that made the day especially sentimental.
The couple chose a baby blue-and-white color palette inspired by Seaside’s familiar coastal charm. After rain fell throughout the night before the wedding, the forecast raised concerns. Fortunately, the skies cleared in time for the five o’clock ceremony, and the rain stayed away until the following morning.
The ladies’ morning wasn’t entirely without excitement, however. An unattended rented steamer set off the fire alarm, prompting an unexpected
Inside the Chapel, Eric was overcome with emotion as Grace made her way down the aisle. After a busy season of finishing college and preparing for their wedding, the two finally had their moment together in a place that had been part of Eric’s life since childhood. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 53
L’amour he reception on the Lyceum Lawn was everything they had hoped for. Guests of all ages filled the dance floor, singing along to favorites like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Don’t Stop Believin’.” One particularly unforgettable moment came when Eric’s fraternity brothers lifted him above the crowd during “Swag Surfing.” Between the dancing and laughter, heartfelt speeches from Grace’s sisters and Eric’s brother gave the newlyweds a few quieter moments to appreciate the people who had helped shape their story. Following the wedding, Eric and Grace traded the familiar streets of Seaside for a fourand-a-half-week honeymoon across ten European countries. The trip began in Dublin, Ireland, before taking them to Lisbon, Portugal, and on to Nice, France, with a visit to Monte Carlo, Monaco. They continued to Paris before spending time with family friends in Ettenheim, Germany, where exploring the nearby Alsace region of France and the Black Forest became one of their favorite experiences. From Germany, the newlyweds traveled to Athens, Greece, and boarded a ten-day cruise with stops in Bodrum, Türkiye; Mykonos, Crete and Santorini, Greece; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Kotor, Montenegro. Their travels continued in London, where they attended a performance of The Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty’s Theatre. An unexpected opportunity to see Harry Styles in concert also made its way onto the itinerary after they stumbled upon tickets while visiting the Wembley area. The final leg of their honeymoon took them by train from London to Edinburgh, Scotland, where they spent several days exploring the city and experiencing the Scottish Highlands. With Eric preparing to begin dental school and Grace starting her career as an elementary school teacher, the trip was a chance to enjoy an extended adventure together before settling into their new routines. From meeting as freshmen at Florida State to exchanging vows in The Chapel at Seaside, Eric and Grace have shared some of life’s biggest milestones. Their wedding brought them back to the town where Eric grew up, surrounded by the family and friends who had cheered them on from the beginning. With college behind them, new careers ahead, and plenty of wedding-day stories to tell for years, the newlyweds have much to look forward to. Congratulations!
SPECIAL THANKS Flowers: Florals by the Sea, FloralsbytheSea.com Catering: Townsend Catering, TownsendCatering.com DJ: DJ 30A, DJ30A.com Cake: Sweetly Sisters, SweetlySisters.com Planner: Stephanie Tate – Savoir Faire Weddings, SavoirFaireWeddings.com String quartet: Top Hat Live, TopHatLive.com Photographer: Sydney Faith Photography, SydneyFaithPhoto.com Videographer: Josh Kidd, JoshKiddFilms.com
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L’intermission
Flight Mode by LV includes ready-to-wear items, leather goods, shoes, luggage, and accessories that continue to enhance a wardrobe designed for the modernday globetrotter. Look for your favorite pieces at us.LouisVuitton.com. Photography courtesy of Louis Vuitton
The Art of Traveling in Style Debuting at the Autumn/Winter 2026 “Flight Mode” presentation, Louis Vuitton’s signature Low Key Hobo bag, originally launched in 2024, is now offered in Monogram red and walnut shades. It joins the Nice vanity case as an essential travel companion. Silhouettes combine comfort with effortless elegance, while bags blend functionality and refinement. The fabrics offer a sensual, sumptuous feel, creating a complete wardrobe suited to every destination.
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Love, VIE xo
L’amour
For Payton Brundage and Garrison Dykes, March 28, 2026, wasn’t a traditional wedding, but a chance to throw the best party they could imagine. et at The Alice in Destin, Florida, the celebration unfolded in layers, shifting from bright and airy to dark and moody as the night went on, with a few surprises along the way. Their story began somewhere much less polished: The Village Door in Baytowne. Garrison, originally from South Georgia, was working seven days a week and rarely took a night off. His friends finally convinced him to go out, and Payton’s girlfriends did the same for her. Not long after Payton arrived, Garrison approached her. Between the music and his thick Southern accent, Payton could barely make him out. They eventually stepped outside, where a conversation meant to last a few minutes stretched into more than an
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hour. They talked about their families, careers, God, and their goals for the future. There was an instant connection. Four years later, Garrison proposed on Christmas Day in 2024 outside his grandmother’s house. It was just the two of them, giving them a moment to take it all in before heading inside for Christmas dinner. The location carried even more meaning because of the close relationship Garrison has always shared with his grandmother. Today, the couple is building their home in Panama City Beach’s Wild Heron community, where his grandmother lives just across the street. They hope to raise their family there, making the proposal site something they can eventually point to for their children.
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L’amour or Payton, a lifelong 30A, Florida, local, finding the right wedding venue meant looking beyond the familiar. “I wanted a venue that felt different,” she says. “That’s what happens when you’re a spoiled local, haha!” When they discovered The Alice, a new venue opening in Destin, it immediately felt like the right fit. The connection was personal, too. The venue’s owner had been an important business mentor to Garrison throughout his career in Florida. Beyond that, Payton loved that the space offered so many different areas to transform throughout the day. The couple knew they did not want a traditional beach wedding. Instead, they wanted something that felt entirely like them. That vision carried into the planning process, which Payton says was surprisingly stress-free. She trusted her mother and wedding planner Felicia Scott to take the reins and intentionally chose not to know every detail. “I wanted to be surprised,” she says. “I didn’t care to know every little detail.” That decision paid off. On the wedding day, each new space brought another surprise, letting Payton enjoy the celebration without worrying about what would happen next. If something went slightly differently than planned, she never knew. From the beginning, Payton wanted the wedding to feel like a really fun party where they just happened to get married. The result was a celebration of about 230 guests that leaned fully into that idea. The ceremony set the tone with a large sign welcoming guests to “Payton’s Wedding,” followed humorously by “featuring Garrison” in considerably smaller letters underneath. From there, the personality only grew. For the reception, the couple created their own speakeasy, The Jade Lounge. They developed the name, designed a custom logo, and even made merchandise for the fictional establishment. They draped every wall of the reception space, transforming The Alice into something that felt far removed from a wedding venue and more like a lounge tucked away in another city. The Jade Lounge even had its own hats, which the couple still wears. Occasionally, strangers ask where the lounge is, only to discover that it existed for one night and one night only. 62 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
Guests entering the reception encountered another unexpected detail: a woman dressed entirely in white, wearing an enormous floral headpiece that concealed her face. Nearby, a separate bourbon room called The Reserve offered tastings paired with specialty popcorn. An old-fashioned video of people dancing played on a projector, adding another layer to the atmosphere. Then came the secret door. Positioned between The Jade Lounge and The Reserve, the tiny door required guests to knock. On the other side, someone would pass out custom merchandise from one of the two spaces. As the night continued, the wedding became even more of a spectacle. Lifesize disco-ball dancers emerged onto the dance floor, their mirrored costumes covering them completely, including their faces. They moved through the crowd like giant disco balls come to life, getting guests out of their seats and onto the dance floor. A cryo gun also became one of the evening’s most entertaining additions, especially once Payton’s mom got hold of it. Every choice was designed to keep guests engaged and wondering what they would discover next. The colors and aesthetics shifted throughout the evening, moving from light and open at the ceremony to dark and more atmospheric by the reception. For Payton, that sense of discovery was exactly the point. “I’m incredibly grateful to Felicia, my mom, and all of our vendors for creating an experience that allowed me to be a bride, be present, and simply have fun,” she says. Rather than trying to control every moment, she let herself experience it. Instead of following a formula, the couple built something personal, playful, and completely unexpected. The wedding may have lasted one night, but The Jade Lounge, The Reserve, and all their eccentric little details gave guests a story to take home. As for the honeymoon, there was no rush. The couple has traveled since the wedding but plans to take their official tropical honeymoon in February. For now, they are enjoying the slower rhythm of married life, settling into their new chapter and taking their time building a home and planning the trip they have been looking forward to. After all, they already know there is something to be said for letting the good things unfold in their own time.
Special Thanks Photography and videography: Higgins Photo & Film, HigginsPhotoFilm.com Planner: Felicia Scott – F. Scott Weddings, Instagram.com/fscottweddings Florals and event design: Florals by the Sea, FloralsBytheSea.com Draping: Wedding Walls, WeddingWalls.com Entertainment: DJ 30A, DJ30A.com Catering: Swiftly Catered, SwiftlyCatered.com Bar: Tap the Coast, TaptheCoast.com Glam: Tania Crawford – Bridals by Tania, TaniaCrawfordBeauty.com Rentals: Longleaf Events, LongleafEvents.com and Destin Event Rentals, DestinEventRentals.com Signage and logo creation: Bluskies Design & Print, BluskiesPrint.com Content creator: Social by Morgan, SocialbyMorgan.com
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Petite pause
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The 2026 Kips Bay Decorator Show House New York opened for fall at 80 Washington Place in Greenwich Village. In its 51st year, the four-week showcase featured 22 designers and architects who have transformed the 1839 Georgian townhouse into a collection of grand entertaining spaces, private terraces, a wellness level, and a rooftop overlooking Washington Square Park. This year’s new addition was an exclusively American art collection curated by art historian and curator Gay Gassmann, displayed along the Show House staircase. Ticket proceeds benefited the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club. The organization says the Show House has raised more than $35 million over five decades for educational and enrichment programs for NYC youth. For more information and to purchase tickets for future events, please visit KipsBayDecoratorShowHouse.org. Photography by Nick Johnson
There is nothing quite like seeing a Kips Bay Decorator Show House come to life. —JAMES DRUCKMAN,
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THE ART OF A GOOD
PARTI ! Parti Packs Founder Abby Walsh is Making Life’s Celebrations a Little More Personal
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here is something to be said for a really good party—the kind where every guest feels welcome, the smallest details spark conversation, and the hosts are having just as much fun as everyone else. Maybe details include a handwritten note waiting at someone’s seat, a cocktail napkin featuring the couple’s beloved dog, or a beautifully wrapped favor tucked into a welcome bag. Long after the flowers have wilted and the last guest has gone home, these personal touches are often what people remember most. Abby Walsh has built a business around creating them. As the founder of Parti Packs, a custom event décor and gifting company, Walsh specializes in bringing personality to life’s biggest occasions. Weddings, bachelorette weekends, bridal showers, birthdays, and holiday gatherings are all part of the fun, along with corporate events and custom gifting. Her work spans everything from invitations and signage to embroidered keepsakes, welcome bags, and personalized party favors. No two celebrations look quite the same, which is exactly how she likes it. The idea for Parti Packs began during Walsh’s college years at Pepperdine University, where she helped organize sorority recruitment and events. Friends soon asked for her help with their own celebrations, and her experience branding events at Bloom Nutrition gave her another outlet for her creativity. But Walsh had always pictured herself building something of her own.
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L’amour While earning her MBA at Pepperdine, she pursued the entrepreneurship track, which required students to develop a business concept and apply it throughout their coursework. Parti Packs became hers. “It was always my goal to have my own business!” she shares. “For this track, we had to come up with our own business and apply it in all my classes. This really helped Parti Packs grow!” What started as a love for bringing people together also revealed a gap in the event industry. Walsh had experienced how challenging it could be to source everything needed for a celebration, especially when trying to create a cohesive look across multiple vendors. She envisioned a company where clients could find all those creative elements in one place, with someone who understood how they should work together. Today, that vision allows Parti Packs to be involved in as much or as little of a celebration as a client needs. A couple might come to Walsh for custom wedding invitations and return for welcome bags, reception signage, and party favors. Others might need a single personalized gift or a few thoughtful additions to an event they’ve already planned. For Walsh, making the process easier matters as much as making the finished product beautiful. “There’s so much work behind a celebration, and it’s easy for the person hosting to spend the whole time managing details,” she says. “I want the process to feel fun and as stress-free as possible, so they can enjoy the celebration and make their favorite people feel special!” This approach feels especially fitting for weddings. After months, sometimes years, of planning, couples deserve to be fully present for the day they’ve been anticipating. And while the flowers, venue, and dress might set the scene, Walsh believes the smaller, more personal elements often give a wedding its character. “I think the details guests interact with often have the biggest impact: a welcome bag when they arrive, a beautiful menu at their seat, or a handwritten note waiting for them,” she explains. “Those touches make people feel considered.”
She especially loves finding ways to weave a couple’s personality into their wedding weekend. Their favorite snack might appear at the end of the reception, or their dog might find its way onto a cocktail napkin. A meaningful family tradition, a favorite drink, or a nod to where they first met can become part of the celebration in ways both subtle and playful.
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etting to know that story is where her creative process begins. Before developing designs, Walsh asks about the couple, their venue, guest count, budget, and the pieces they hope to incorporate. Inspiration photos are welcome, but she’s just as interested in understanding what makes a particular image appealing. It might be the colors, the lettering, the paper’s texture, or the overall feeling it creates. From there, she develops a custom proposal with ideas, mockups, and pricing. The team refines the designs together, carrying certain elements throughout the event. An invitation might introduce a motif that later appears on the welcome gifts, menus, or signage. Having one team oversee those pieces helps ensure everything feels connected while leaving room for each detail to have its own moment. Lately, Walsh has been enjoying the shift toward wedding details with more texture and personality. Letterpress invitations, linen signage, embroidery, custom die-cut shapes, and layered colors are all making appearances in her projects. Some couples favor earthy neutrals and monochromatic palettes, while others are embracing coastal blues and greens. She’s especially drawn to details that invite guests to participate in the celebration, whether that’s a seating chart accompanied by personal letters or a welcome gift thoughtfully chosen for the destination. One of her favorite recent weddings took place along Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A in May of this year. The couple embraced the opportunity to personalize their celebration, working with Parti Packs on everything from welcome bags to custom food packaging. It was the kind of project Walsh particularly enjoys, where each part of the wedding offers another chance to do something creative.
while a bachelorette weekend might call for bold colors, clever wording, and gifts that reflect the bride’s personality. Each occasion has its own atmosphere, but the inspiration always comes back to the person being celebrated. That same attention to detail extends to the holiday season, when the calendar fills with dinner parties, family traditions, and opportunities to gather with friends. For anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to host the perfect celebration, Walsh has a welcome reminder: a memorable gathering doesn’t have to be elaborate. “I would start with a few thoughtful touches: a welcoming table, a personalized place card, and something small for guests to take home,” she suggests. A ribbon tied around a napkin, a handwritten note, or a favorite family recipe can make a holiday table feel special without requiring weeks of preparation. Even something as simple as a printed menu or a small favor can make guests feel that extra bit of care.
Walsh encourages hosts to focus on a few details they truly love rather than trying to do everything. As Parti Packs continues to grow, Walsh is looking forward to expanding her work along 30A and with clients across the country. Custom gifting and corporate projects are among the areas she’s eager to develop further, along with making it easier for customers to shop and order personalized celebration pieces. More than anything, she hopes Parti Packs becomes a familiar part of her clients’ lives. A brand they turn to for their engagement party, wedding weekend, first baby shower, and the birthdays and holidays that follow. The occasions may change, but the care behind each one remains the same. “For our clients, I want there to be excitement and relief when they see their ideas come together,” Walsh says. “For their guests, I hope the details make them feel welcomed and included.”
Her work has also taken Parti Packs beyond weddings. The company has created PR boxes for Barefoot Dreams and speaker gift bags for Live Original, along with personalized details for Olympic track star Gabby Thomas’s bachelorette celebration. That project included custom gifting, house décor, and special touches for a boat day and hibachi night.
Parti Packs’ goal isn’t to dress up an event or find the perfect favor. It’s about helping people express something they might not always know how to put into words, such as a thank-you for traveling to celebrate a wedding, a reminder of an inside joke shared between friends, or a small gesture that tells someone how much their presence means.
“I love projects where we can get creative across several parts of an event and make each moment feel special while keeping everything connected,” Walsh says.
Walsh understands that these occasions are about far more than what ends up on the table or inside a gift bag. “Celebrating gives us a reason to pause and appreciate the people and moments that matter,” she reflects. “Life moves quickly, and gathering together helps us mark a new chapter, express gratitude, or simply enjoy being with one another.”
It's easy to see why weddings and the celebrations surrounding them have become such a natural fit for the brand. A bridal luncheon can be elegant and sentimental,
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L’amour
And when the party is over, it ’s those moments of connection that remain. The laughter, the people, the stories, and the little details that made everyone feel like they belonged are the hallmarks of the kind of celebration Walsh hopes to create, one thoughtful touch at a time. For more information about Parti Packs and its custom event décor, gifting, and celebration services, visit PartiPacks.com or email abby@partipacks.com. Follow @partipacks on Instagram for more inspiration and a look at their latest celebrations.
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For more information, visit Anantara.com. Photography courtesy of Anantara Hotels & Resorts and Alfa Romeo
Voyager
SEE THE WORLD
Anantara Hotels & Resorts and Alfa Romeo are bringing the romance of the 18th-century Grand Tour to the open road with the Anantara Grand Tour of Europe, a collection of driving journeys centered on scenic routes, cultural discovery and the pleasure of taking your time. The first itinerary, the Dolce Vita Tour, begins in Rome and winds through the Castelli Romani and along the coast of Sperlonga before climbing toward Ravello and following the curves of the Amalfi Coast to Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel. Guests travel in Alfa Romeo models ranging from the classic Giulietta to the contemporary Giulia and Stelvio, stopping along the way for seaside lunches, family-run vineyard tastings and golden-hour walks beneath Positano’s pastel skyline. Additional journeys are planned for 2027, including the French Riviera, Málaga to Marbella, Dublin to Amsterdam, and an Imperial Capitals Tour, offering a fresh take on European travel where the road itself becomes part of the experience.
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ART OF FACT(S) A PLACE TO WANDER,
GET CURIOUS,
AND FIND SOMETHING THAT FEELS COMPLETELY YOUR OWN
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B Y C A I T LY N B U R R U S | P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y M I C H A E L G R A N B E R R Y
SOME OF THE BEST THINGS ARE THE THINGS YOU WERE NEVER LOOKING FOR. You walk into a store just to look around, and suddenly something you cannot stop thinking about appears. Maybe it is a photograph, an object with a little history behind it, a piece that would completely change a corner of your home, or something that would make the most unexpected gift. You did not come in searching for it, but you found it. That feeling is at the heart of Art of Fact(s), the Watersound Town Center shop from Laura and Michael Granberry. The couple moved to Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A area in October 2002 and have spent more than two decades building a creative life here, including their years with Art of Simple in Seaside. In November 2025, they opened Art of Fact(s), bringing a new expression of their shared creativity to the area. For Laura and Michael, creativity isn’t separate from everyday life. It is what they have always done. Michael is a photographer, and Laura is a graphic designer, the fields they studied in school, and those creative backgrounds naturally find their way into Art of Fact(s). The store feels personal because it is personal. It reflects the way they see, collect, travel, create, and notice things. Even the architecture carries a story. Part of the store’s design was inspired by a restaurant the couple visited in New York City, taking an idea from a place they loved and translating it into their own environment. It is one of those details that captures what Art of Fact(s) is about. Inspiration can come from anywhere, and the things that stay with you often find new life somewhere else. Inside, everything is for sale. That may sound simple, but it changes the way you experience the space. You are not walking through a showroom where everything has already been decided for you. You look around, notice things, and form your own opinions. No single piece is supposed to appeal to everyone. Instead, one particular object may catch the eye of one particular person and feel like it belongs with them.
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hat is exactly what Laura and Michael want. They want people to leave with something they absolutely love—not something they bought because it was everywhere or because it happened to be having a moment, but something that felt personal because it stopped them in their tracks.
In a world increasingly filled with factory production, neutral interiors, and rows of identical products, Art of Fact(s) offers another way to shop and another way to think about the things we bring into our homes. The store is filled with one-ofa-kind pieces and unexpected finds that invite you to look a little longer. They can become part of a room, a conversation, a collection, a memory, or simply a small detail that makes your home feel more like you. And there is no online store to scroll through before you visit. Art of Fact(s) exists in the real world, where you actually have to walk through the door. That decision is intentional. Laura and Michael want the store to be an experience. They want people to enjoy being there, take their time, and discover something they would not have found by searching online. That kind of shopping feels wonderfully old-fashioned, especially now. You do not know exactly what you will find until you get there. That sense of discovery also reflects the Granberrys’ approach to their own work. Their goal is not to sell out or grow as quickly as possible. It is to continue doing work that feeds their souls and their creativity. After years spent creating, designing, photographing, collecting, and living along 30A, Art of Fact(s) gives them a place to keep doing just that in a new and growing part of the community.
“ T H AT K I N D O F S H O P P I N G F E E L S W O N D E R F U L LY O L D - F A S H I O N E D , E S P E C I A L LY N O W. Y O U D O N O T K N O W E X A C T LY W H AT Y O U W I L L FIND UNTIL YOU GET THERE.”
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“ART OF FACT(S) IS A PLACE FOR THE THINGS THAT DO NOT NECESSARILY FIT INTO A CATEGORY, THE THINGS THAT MAKE YOU LOOK TWICE, AND THE THINGS YOU MIGHT NEVER HAVE KNOWN YOU WANTED UNTIL YOU SAW THEM.” 76 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
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o formula explains what makes something special. One person may walk past a piece without a second thought while someone else sees it and immediately knows. That is the beauty of having your own eye, your own taste, and your own story. Art of Fact(s) is a place for the things that do not necessarily fit into a category, the things that make you look twice, and the things you might never have known you wanted until you saw them. So come in without a shopping list, look around, and stay awhile. You might leave with nothing, or you might leave with the one thing you never looked for and now couldn’t imagine your home without.
To experience the store and find your perfect piece, visit 74 Origins Main St Ste 100, Watersound, Florida 32461. Visit Art-of-Facts.com to learn more.
L’intermission
See more or shop now at Jane-Wade.com. Photography by Charles Linn
Explore “The Riverbed” Jane Wade’s latest collection carries traces of its environment: compression, shine, erosion, and softness, turning practical garments into emotional artifacts. Survival tools sit against this softness, reminding us that the adventure is as lethal as it is beautiful. Through a creative partnership with Keen, Jane Wade reimagines the water shoe as a functional object shaped by The Riverbed. Designed for wet, uneven terrain, its adaptable construction reflects the collection’s tension between protection and exposure, utility and transformation. The Riverbed is also shaped by exploration in nature. A partnership with Keote’s compact bags carries the “leave no trace” mentality beyond the show, creating something lightweight, compact, and functional that can keep moving with you.
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Love, VIE xo
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Magic in the North Georgia Mountains Escaping to Uhuburg Castle
n a camping trip decades ago, a married couple sat perched on a boulder, watching the sun lowering over the Appalachian Mountains. They had little to their name and were drinking the cheapest wine you could buy, but they smiled regardless. Nearby, watching them admiringly, was their son. In that moment, he noticed that all that seemed to matter to his parents was each other and the sunset. They couldn’t have known it then, but this would be a defining moment for their son Bob Marthai—one that would continue to inspire him to pursue truth, sail ships, and dream big. Uhuburg Castle is a product of that dream. Situated on 45 acres at the top of a wooded mountain knoll in Helen, Georgia, Uhuburg Castle is Marthai’s masterpiece, giving visitors an opportunity to escape from the ordinary, step into the magic, and yes, even spend the night
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Voyager Curious People Like Castles As you drive up to the gates of Uhuburg Castle, it’s hard not to be taken aback by its elegance and grandeur. Its medieval-style, bone-white facade and its eight-story lookout tower lie just beyond its blood-red gatehouse doors. A large Eurasian eagle-owl—the uhu, as it’s known in German—is emblazoned above the castle entrance, wings outstretched and amber eyes looming. Just as owls are inquisitive creatures with fervent spirits, you could describe Bob Marthai the same way. It was nearly twenty years ago when Marthai, a self-proclaimed armchair philosopher and second-generation Beatnik, decided to change course in his career. After years as a college professor and psychologist, his endless fascination with the concept of “the good life” eventually inspired him to create something extraordinary. Well, that, and he was up for the challenge. “I stumbled upon this quote once,” begins Marthai. “‘If you ever get bored, get curious and go learn something.’ And, well, ‘curious people like castles,’” Marthai laughs. Uhuburg’s construction began in 2008, and the “two-year” project continued over the following fourteen years. Architecturally, Uhuburg takes inspiration from various romantic castles and structures, notably Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria and the Biltmore House in Asheville, North Carolina. And while Uhuburg Castle appears, on the surface, to be a luxurious and grandiose palace, at its core it’s a fortress of peace and a “citadel of epistemology,” says Marthai, designed as a celebration of exploration and knowledge. It was his love for learning that inspired Marthai to build a castle, after all, and his father’s influence that pushed him along. “My father used to say, ‘We’re not keeping up with the Joneses, whoever they are,’” Marthai chuckles. “I knew that meant I would be encouraged to be more of an abstract, free thinker.” And even before he became a psychologist or started building castles, being a free-thinker was exactly what Marthai set out to do. Recreating his father’s dreams of living out on the open sea, Marthai spent many years as a tall ship captain and naval architect. You can still sail one of his boats in Charleston, a fifty-passenger, three-masted schooner called The Pride. “Sailing is a metaphor for life, you know?” begins Marthai. Part vestibule for transformation and part vestigial memory connecting us all to our ancestral heritage, when people come back from a journey at sea, Marthai believes “their life has been changed, and they have a new direction.” When they get to their final destination, “they just drop anchor,” Marthai smiles. On this excursion, people realize “the wind is still free.” But don’t worry, laughs Marthai, in true neo-hippie fashion, “They’ll find a way to tax it.” The experience Marthai describes is not unlike the one you get while at the castle – one of escapism and enlightenment – especially when you stay the night.
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Staying at the Castle From the fairy tales of Hans Christian Anderson and the plays of William Shakespeare to classic films like Robin Hood, “There’s a castle in every story,” says Marthai. Castles have fastened themselves in our subconscious since childhood and become part of our stories. In turn, staying at Uhuburg Castle makes you feel like you’ve become a part of theirs. “For people, staying in a castle is an immersive thing,” notes Marthai. Whether on a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a girls’ trip, Uhuburg offers seven chambers for guests to fully immerse themselves in all the castle’s offerings. In the main building, each chamber is named, fittingly, after royalty. As guests walk into the King Chamber and make their way to their private balcony, they are enraptured by rich golds and reds. Of course, the King would be nothing without his Queen, whose chamber is adorned with deep greens and vibrant blues and features a claw-foot tub overlooking the castle grounds. The Prince Chamber is draped in elegant cerulean tapestries, while the Princess Chamber’s soft lilac tones, along with its spiral staircase leading directly to the tropical atrium below, certainly make it fit for a princess. The three gatehouses nestled in the two-story walls of the east, north, and south portions of the castle grounds also feature chambers suitable for high nobility. The Duchess Chamber is the largest on the property and includes a kitchenette, dinette, adjoining room with a twin-size daybed, and two full baths. Tucked away on the third level of the south gatehouse is the Duke Chamber, whose two private balconies feature views of the mountains and the vegetable garden. Lastly, perched on the second level of the east gatehouse, is the Monarch Chamber, draped in luxurious blue velvet curtains and boasting the property’s only king-sized bed. And because each chamber is unique, “You can come stay here seven times and have a different experience,” muses Marthai. Overnight guests are treated daily to freshly baked goods over tea in the parlor; the muscadine cookies are a particular standout, handcrafted by the all-smiles chef who serves guests complimentary breakfast at the round table. The people who come to stay at the castle but choose not to join for breakfast “are truly missing out,” Marthai emphasizes. Because as the sun catches glimmers off the crystal chandelier above, it’s here in the circular room that guests can eat with the architect himself, feeling fulfilled not only by the food in their bellies but by the stories shared. That’s part of what Marthai aims to do at Uhuburg: create “meaningful, realistic experiences characterized by honesty,” with oneself and one another. Though the guest chambers will be closed for January as they prepare for year four of CastleFaire, the castle’s epic annual renaissance festival, reservations pick back up in February, and day visits and group tours are still offered, guiding visitors through the expansive grounds. Visitors are invited into the castle’s Elizabethan-inspired towers and turrets, great halls and drawing rooms, fantastical grottos and gardens, and—murder holes? Well, “Those are explained on the tour,” laughs Marthai, who often leads them himself.
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All Is Illuminated When you’re a guest staying at the castle overnight, “be sure to embark on a nighttime walk,” encourages Uhuburg’s host Angela as she shows you the lantern sitting idle in the cupboard. “And if you get lost, it’s working,” adds Marthai, only half-joking. And as a guest at the castle, when you’re told to wander the castle’s labyrinthine grounds late at night with only the light from a lantern to guide you, you do it, especially on a drizzly and dazzling night like the one I found myself experiencing. Turn the corner, and you find yourself staring at a larger-than-life mural—one of eight (and eventually thirty) lining the castle walls, depicting old-world religions and philosophical principles, whose purpose is to “represent how people have tried to understand life,” Marthai shares over breakfast. 84 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
Turn another corner, and you’re running into a life-size chessboard. Another, and you’ve stumbled upon a fairy garden, its lights twinkling in a hidden alcove. As you explore each facet of the castle grounds with your spouse, your friends, or your innermost thoughts, you can’t help but feel like the little boy from the beginning of this story who looked longingly at his besotted parents. He’d be smiling at you now, because here you are, with nothing but the light of the moon and the lantern in hand to guide you, enriched by it all. And as you finish your walk, you realize what Marthai meant by “If you get lost, it’s working.” Because often, it’s in the darkness when all is illuminated; and after a stay at Uhuburg Castle, you don’t feel lost at all. In fact, you feel more found than ever before.
Visit Uhuburg.com to learn more or book a stay.
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Fostering and Igniting Meaningful Conversations
By LISA MARI E BURWELL | Photo gr a phy by MARK LITTLE
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Against the b ackdrop of late-summer Gul f skie s and temp erate c o a st al bre eze s, the inau gural gathering c ommenc e d not in a sterile c onferenc e ro om, but on the water.
n the evening of Wednesday, September 30, guests boarded a sunset cruise along Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast—a leisurely welcome that set an intentional, unhurried tone. By 7:00 a.m. the following morning, the assembly reconvened at the water’s edge for The Sunrise Ritual, pairing guided movement with a restorative sound bath while dawn broke over the white sands. The morning flowed into an exclusive reception at the inviting WaterColor Lakehouse—an open, airy, light-filled space with dynamic views of Western Lake—which set the mood for a relaxed venue for two energetic discussion panels, with lunch served in between. This thoughtful progression served as the prelude and backdrop to Wealth Redefined 2026, a three-day luxury real estate salon held at the iconic WaterColor BoatHouse. Hosted by Allison Richards, Principal of The Richards Group at Compass and a prominent advisor within the global REALM network, the event convened industry leaders to explore a deeper dimension of their profession: wellness, longevity, and true human connection as a client’s ultimate luxury assets. Aaron Colby-Begovich, Director of Member Experience at REALM Global, moderated both panels. His charismatic, enthusiastic personality set the atmosphere for lively conversations. Discussions covered new architectural design preferences and building techniques that clients are requesting, as well as lighting and how to integrate V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 87
health-promoting technology into architectural spaces. They also discussed creating private alcoves and spaces where homeowners feel like they can escape the outside world. They also discussed the real concerns about what being a realtor really is: a knowledgeable professional who can help you navigate every aspect of buying a new home while increasing your wealth in the process. Beyond bringing an abundance of knowledge to the conversation, it was impressive that REALM Global’s founder/CEO also served as a keynote speaker alongside Allison. This group of intelligent, interesting professionals offered unmatched ideas, support, and fellowship. Rather than treating legacy as an afterthought or fixating purely on transaction volume, the salon explored real estate advisory as a stewardship of well-being. Allison’s leadership anchored the weekend with steady confidence and gracious hospitality. Across two interactive panel discussions and sessions guided by an engaging moderator, dialogue gravitated toward perspectives seldom voiced in conventional industry forums—culminating in a shared guiding ethos:
“We alth is not only what you have built. It is what you are able to enjoy, prote ct, and hand forward ,” s ays Allis on Richard s
True to Allison’s philosophy of community stewardship, proceeds from the salon were dedicated to the Alaqua Animal Refuge, directly investing the weekend’s momentum back into the local ecosystem. 88 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
Aaron Colby-Begovich (Director of Member Experience, REALM Global) moderated both panels. Panel One: Living Well as the Foundation of Wealth • Geoff Chick – AIA, Architect-Founder, Geoff Chick & Associates • Chelsea Kmiec – FDN-P – Founder and Principal, Elurai Group • Allison Richards – Principal, The Richards Group Panel Two: Wealth-Life Balance • Kristen Comeau – Regional Vice President & Shareholder, Mercer Advisors • Julie Faupel – Founder/CEO, REALM Global • Brandon Youngs – CEO and Co-founder, Southern Holiday Homes Event Sponsors • Sheltair • Southern Holiday Homes • Key Lime Construction • Pacaso • Reli Title
Voyager
About REALM Most agents sell inside one brokerage. REALM members sell across all of them. REALM is an invitation-only community of top luxury advisors, teams, and brokerages, brought together regardless of which sign is in the yard. Members represent more than 150 different brands across 40 states and 16 countries. A Compass advisor on 30A and an advisor in Aspen, London, or Scottsdale sit at the same table, work the same deals, and share the same intelligence. Such structure matters more than it sounds. Luxury real estate has always been siloed by brand and by market. REALM was built to break the silo. Membership is selective. Members are admitted because they operate at the top of their market, not because they bought a seat.
“ REALM is an invit ation-only c ommunity of top luxury advis ors, te ams, and brokera ge s, brou g ht to gether re gardle s s of which sig n is in the yard.” The result for a seller is simple. When a REALM member represents your home, it isn’t introduced to one agent’s database. It is introduced to a vetted global network and the buyers that network already knows. About The Richards Group Allison Richards is the Principal of The Richards Group at Compass, a RealTrends Verified luxury real estate team that ranks in the top 5% of RealTrends Verified small teams nationwide and among the top 1.5% of all real estate professionals in the United States. The team serves Scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, WaterColor, WaterSound, Seaside, Inlet Beach, Miramar Beach, Destin, and the broader Emerald Coast of Northwest Florida. (RealTrends Verified 2026, based on 2025 sales data)
Left: In partnership with Sheltair, Reli Title, Pacaso, Southern Holiday Homes, Key Lime Construction, and REALM Global, The Richards Group at Compass hosted a special Wealth Redefined retreat and salon along the Emerald Coast of Northwest Florida on September 30 and October 1, 2026. Opposite left: A Sunrise Ritual yoga session on the beach kicked off the second day of events. Opposite right: A salon session at the WaterColor Lakehouse, moderated by Aaron Colby-Begovich, with guests Chelsea Kmiec, Allison Richards, and Geoff Chick V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 89
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43 Fort Panic Road, Dune Allen Beach
21 Penny Lane, Dune Allen Beach
43 Fort Panic Road, Dune Allen Beach
21 Penny Lane, Dune Allen Beach
67 San Roy Road, Seagrove Beach
The Richards Group’s beautiful listings around Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A include 43 Fort Panic Road, 67 San Roy Road, 21 Penny Lane, and 220 Saint Francis Drive North. Photography courtesy of The Richards Group 90 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
220 Saint Francis Drive North, Miramar Beach
67 San Roy Road, Seagrove Beach
he Richards Group is a boutique luxury real estate team at Compass led by Allison Richards, serving 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, Inlet Beach, Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, WaterSound, WaterColor, Seaside, Miramar Beach, and Destin. More than 20 years of Florida experience and $450M+ in career sales, with a focus on second homes, investment property, and relocation.
Visit AllisonRichards30a.com, call or text (850) 502-6035, or email allison.richards@compass.com to learn more, explore listings, or get involved with upcoming events.
220 Saint Francis Drive North, Miramar Beach
SEAFOOD, SUSHI & CRAFT COCKTAILS! LIVE MUSIC WEDNESDAYS & SUNDAYS
24215 HWY. 331 AT THE FOOT OF THE BRIDGE | SANTA ROSA BEACH, FL 32459 | 850.622.2291 WWW.BAYSOUTHWALTON.COM |
@THEBAYSOUTHWALTON
Bon appétit
For more information, visit EstiatorioMilos.com. Photography courtesy of Estiatorio Milos
Bon appétit! THE ESSENCE OF LIFE
Evenings at Estiatorio Milos West Palm Beach are getting a little more Greek with the launch of Meze Hour, a new early-evening offering designed for lingering over cocktails, wine, and small plates. Available Sunday through Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the bar and lounge tables, the menu features $14 Milos Martini and Santorini Spritz cocktails, $10 Greek wine specials, and meze ranging from half-dozen oysters and Lavraki ceviche to salmon tartare and taramas dip with avgotaraho. Since Chef Costas Spiliadis opened the first Milos in Montreal in 1979, the restaurant has become known for its focus on Greek cuisine and exceptionally sourced seafood. At the West Palm Beach location, which opened in February 2025, that tradition comes with a waterfront setting, lush gardens, and fresh fish flown in daily from the Mediterranean.
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Bon appétit!
BY KATIE OGLETREE | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF EVERYTHING JUST BAKED
hen I first spoke with Justin Ellen, I immediately felt like I was talking with a friend. He’s inviting, warm, and makes you instantly feel connected to him and his story. And over the course of our conversation discussing social media, family, and the love of baking, I knew that Ellen was so much more than a baker. Long before he was making cakes for celebrities or sharing his creations with millions of people online through Everything Just Baked, he was a New Jersey kid asking his family for a KitchenAid stand mixer. At around ten years old, inspired by his grandmother—who has always been the heart of the family kitchen, cooking, hosting, and baking everything from scratch—Ellen began finding his own way around the oven. What started as childhood curiosity quickly became something much bigger. By high school, in the early days of the pandemic,
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he baked so often that he sometimes skipped school to keep up with orders. The cakes weren’t always perfect in those early days, but Ellen kept going and eventually created desserts for clients including Mary J. Blige. Now, years after that first KitchenAid request, baking has become a family affair in a different way: his older sister, a graphic designer, and younger sister, an editor, have helped bring his debut cookbook to life, even co-writing it. Better Than Grandma’s: Comfort Desserts We Grew Up Loving was released September 15, 2026. The book holds over eighty from-scratch dessert recipes across nine chapters, covering everything from cakes and cookies to pies, cobblers, breakfast bakes, and smaller treats. Ellen even gives quick teachings on the fundamentals, such as measuring and mixing. However, some of those lessons are recipes; others are more like family rules. “Vanilla, measure with your heart,” is one of Nana’s.
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Bon appétit! e also shares memories of making sugar cookies with his cousins; everyone gathered together to decorate them. Then there’s Nana’s favorite recipe: yellow cake with chocolate frosting, a nostalgic dessert Ellen says his grandmother still requests. “That’s always going to remind me of home,” he says. That sense of nostalgia runs through Better Than Grandma’s, but the author isn’t interested in simply recreating the past. The recipes are rooted in the foods he grew up with, while still leaving room for him to put his own spin on them. For Ellen, honoring tradition doesn’t mean being afraid to change it. He takes inspiration from his grandmother’s recipes and adds his own creative touches, while keeping an eye on trends when they make sense. The result is a cookbook centered around comfort food that feels familiar without feeling stuck in the past. Narrowing down the recipes, however, was no easy task. The process became a collaborative family effort, with everyone helping determine what belonged in the book. Ultimately, the recipes had to fit the cookbook’s central idea: comfort food that doesn’t feel intimidating. Ellen wanted the book to be user-friendly, with recipes that home bakers could actually feel confident making. Among the recipes he’s particularly proud of are his apple fritter cake, inspired by the classic doughnut but without all the frying and mess, and his hot fudge cookies, which he describes as an elevated take on a crinkle cookie. If readers want to know where to start, Ellen already has two recipes in mind: the chocolate chip cookies and the vanilla pound cake. And if there’s one baking rule he hopes people will reconsider, it’s the idea that desserts can never be too sweet. “Salted butter,” he says, laughing. “You need more salt.” That approachable philosophy is part of what has made Justin Ellen’s social media content resonate so deeply. Interestingly, becoming a food creator was never exactly his plan. His sisters pushed him to get in front of the camera. At first, Ellen figured he had nothing to lose. He started by posting his cakes, then began experimenting with videos of himself on camera. What started casually ultimately turned into a real business.
viral, and the response revealed something even more meaningful than views. People weren’t just watching. They were baking. Ellen’s appeal comes partly from how he presents recipes: he breaks things down so they’re easy to understand, focuses on the basics, and encourages people to have fun with the process. And he isn’t afraid to let things get a little messy. The Ellen viewers see online isn’t necessarily a different man than the person sitting across from you in conversation. He’s still smiley, he still jokes, and he still loves to tease—but in person, he says, he’s even more talkative. His openness has become an important part of building that relationship with his audience. In fact, if he could give his younger social media self one piece of advice, it would be simple: show up as yourself. It’s advice he wishes he had taken sooner. “Am I gonna let a camera stop me from having success?” he remembers thinking. Clearly, the answer was no. Of course, turning your passion into a career comes with its own pressure. Ellen admits he puts a lot of it on himself, always feeling like he needs to grow and create something new each time. He doesn’t necessarily have a fiveyear content strategy mapped out; instead, he takes things day by day, carving out time to test recipes and relying heavily on his family. It really is an all-hands-on-deck operation. It truly makes Ellen’s story feel like a full-circle journey. The little boy who once asked for a KitchenAid because he wanted to bake like his grandmother is now creating recipes from his own home kitchen for an audience that has grown far beyond his family, yet they remain right there with him. As for what comes next, Ellen doesn’t see himself stepping away from the kitchen anytime soon. He hopes to make more cookbooks, expand beyond baking, and explore more cooking and lifestyle content. But wherever he goes next, he seems determined to bring the same qualities that got him here: creativity, confidence, and a whole lot of personality. If his followers had to describe him in three words, Ellen thinks they’d say “bubbly, smiley, creative,” and he couldn’t resist adding a fourth: “confident.” After talking with him, I firmly agree.
As his audience grew, Ellen realized this could become his career. Then came an appearance on Netflix’s Is It Cake? in 2021. He even skipped his graduation to pursue the opportunity. After that, as Ellen puts it, “the floodgates opened.” His content eventually evolved beyond showing only finished cakes. About a year ago, he began sharing more from-scratch recipes, giving viewers a closer look at the actual process behind his baking. One pound cake video in particular went 96 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
We wanted to share some of the recipes from the cookbook, so be sure to tag @viemagazine with your masterpieces if you try making them at home! Follow Justin Ellen on Instagram and TikTok @everythingjustbaked. Order your copy of the cookbook at shop.EverythingJustBaked.com.
French Toast Bake PREP: 25 MINUTES | CHILL TIME: 8 HOURS | BAKE: 40 TO 45 MINUTES | SERVINGS: 8
This one stays close to Nana’s original—because some things don’t need much changing. I grew up eating this casserole, and it was something I was more than happy to show up for. Soft in the center and golden on top, sliced challah bread baked in a rich custard that soaks into every piece is simple in the best way. It’s the kind of breakfast that brings everyone to the table without having to ask twice. And always disappears just as fast. Caramel Base and Bread • ½ cup (113 g) salted butter • ¾ cup (150 g) packed light brown sugar • 2 tablespoons maple syrup • Pinch of kosher salt • 1 medium (about 475 g) loaf challah bread, slightly stale or lightly dried (see Grandma’s Tips), sliced ¾ to 1 inch thick Cinnamon Crumb Topping • ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour • ⅓ cup (65 g) packed light brown sugar • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • Pinch of kosher salt • 5 tablespoons (70 g) salted butter, cold and cubed • ¼ cup (30 g) chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
Custard • 6 large eggs, room temperature • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature • 1 cup (240 g) whole milk, room temperature • ¼ cup (60 g) heavy cream, room temperature • 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated white sugar • 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or extract • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg • ½ teaspoon kosher salt For serving: • Maple syrup or powdered sugar • Fresh fruit
Instructions 1. Make the caramel base and add the bread: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and let it cook until lightly browned and nutty. Stir in the brown sugar, maple syrup, and salt and mix until smooth. Pour evenly into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stale or dried bread slices in the dish, slightly overlapping and leaving small gaps for the custard to flow through. 2. Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, milk, cream, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined. 3. Soak the bread and chill: Pour one-third of the custard over the bread and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes. Gently press the slices down to help absorption. Repeat pouring, resting, and pressing down with another third of the custard, then the remaining custard. Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 8 hours. (If you’re short on time, cut the bread into cubes instead of slices and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. You’ll still get a great result, just expect a slightly less custardy texture throughout.) 4. Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let rest: Let rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). 5. Make the topping: In a bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with your fingers until the mixture is crumbly. Fold in the chopped nuts if using. Refrigerate until ready to use. 6. Top and bake: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the slices. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the edges are bubbling, the top is golden and crisp, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let rest for 10 to 15 minutes. 7. Serve and store: Serve warm with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to re-crisp the top. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions for 60 to 90 seconds. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 97
Bon appétit!
Gooey Pecan Pie Bars PREP: 25 MINUTES | BAKE: 30 TO 40 MINUTES | SERVINGS: 16 BARS
Shortbread Crust • 1 cup (226 g) salted butter, melted • ½ cup (100 g) granulated white sugar • 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract • ½ teaspoon kosher salt • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour Grandma’s Tip Flavor Boost: Toasting the pecans significantly deepens their flavor. Spread pecans on a dry baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 6 to 8 minutes, until fragrant. Let them cool before chopping and adding to the topping.
Pecan Topping • ¾ cup (170 g) salted butter, melted • 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar • ½ cup (100 g) granulated white sugar • 3 large eggs, room temperature • 2 tablespoons whole milk • 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour • ½ teaspoon kosher salt • 1 cup (240 g) light corn syrup • 2½ cups (275 g) pecans, toasted and cooled (see Grandma’s Tip)
Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. 2. Make the crust: In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Add the flour and mix until a soft dough forms. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until lightly golden. 3. Make the topping: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla and whisk until smooth. Whisk in the flour and salt, then stir in the corn syrup until fully incorporated. Fold in the toasted pecans. 4. Bake and cool: Pour the topping over the hot crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly soft and no longer liquid. The top should be lightly puffed, and a slight jiggle in the center is perfect. Let cool completely in the pan for 2 to 3 hours. 5. Finish and store: For clean slices, refrigerate briefly before cutting. Lift out the slab using the parchment overhang and cut into bars. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Brown Butter Snickerdoodles SCAN THE QR CODE TO UNLOCK AN ADDITIONAL RECIPE!
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David Richard and Chef Tom Catherall, partners in Aja 30A and Lola Coastal Italian by Chef Tom. Photo by Mark Little
By Katie Ogletree Photography courtesy of Chef Tom Catherall 102 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
Bon appétit!
WHERE PASSION MEETS THE PLATE The Legacy of Chef Tom Catherall orn in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, Tom Catherall didn’t originally plan to become a chef. If he wasn’t in the food industry, he says he would be in rock ’n’ roll! Life had other plans, though, and music doesn’t always pay the bills. His mother eventually enrolled him in a professional chef apprenticeship at fifteen years old—a four-year stint at The Royal Turks Head Hotel on Grey Street in Newcastle. His training was very traditional and hands-on.
Chef Tom Catherall (right) with French Chef Paul Bocuse, 1993
After gaining extensive experience in Europe and abroad, Catherall moved to the United States and settled in Atlanta, Georgia. He worked at a country club, where he earned the prestigious Certified Master Chef (CMC) designation in 1985. That certification is significant: the CMC is a professional credential associated with a very high level of culinary knowledge and practical skill.
Catherall's attainment of it helped establish him as more than a restaurant operator— he had a substantial classical culinary background behind his restaurants. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 103
Bon appétit!
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rom 1996 to 1999, Catherall and his team led roughly a dozen concepts, including Azalea, Tom Tom, and Prime, and as many as fifteen locations. One thing that stands out in Catherall’s story is his willingness to cross culinary boundaries. His English training gave him a classical foundation, but his restaurants in Atlanta drew from Southern American cooking, European techniques, Asian flavors, Spanish tapas, seafood, sushi, steaks, and other traditions. He combined Asian, Spanish, and Southern influences, often in ways unheard of in Atlanta at the time. Now, two of his most prized possessions sit in the area of Scenic Highway 30A in Seacrest and Inlet Beach, Florida: Lola Coastal Italian and Aja 30A. Aja 30A, founded in 2023, takes customers on a journey through Sushi and Japanese cuisine, where you can sit right in front of where they make the sushi and enjoy other “Elevated Asian” favorites, plus steaks, craft cocktails, and more. For Aja 30A specifically, a key point that is driven home is a simple idea: you have to know what goes into the food you serve. Chef Tom and his team put a lot of value into sourcing ingredients at their best rather than taking shortcuts. For example, the team uses real crab, and fresh tuna is delivered every Tuesday and broken down in-house, with the freshest cuts being prioritized for the first customers. That attention to ingredients also reflects a larger philosophy about responsibility in the kitchen. “A chef should know what is on the plate,” says Catherall. That means understanding every component, how it was prepared, what flavors it contributes, and why it belongs in the dish in the first place.
Rather than relying on convenience or processed shortcuts, Catherall’s approach emphasizes being involved in the food from the beginning. 104 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
Nightlife atmosphere at Aja 30A
A
fter so many years of being a master in the kitchen, it was only fitting to bring Catherall and his experience to the forefront. The most natural next step was to pilot a cooking show. A great cooking show should do more than tell viewers what to cook. It should teach them how to think about food—how to choose an ingredient, why quality matters, what to look for at the market, and how a few good ingredients can become something extraordinary. That is exactly what Chef Tom Catherall does in the new series “Let’s Cook!” From his beautiful home kitchen, Catherall takes viewers behind the scenes of the ingredients themselves. What does a good piece of fish look like? How can you tell if seafood is fresh? What should you look for when buying meat? Why does the quality of olive oil matter? When is it worth going to a local farmers market, butcher, or fishmonger? And perhaps most importantly, what should you pay attention to when you shop for the food you’re going to cook? The pilot is now live streaming on YouTube.com/@vietelevision! Aja 30A is also hosting many special events this season, including “The Cutting Room” on October 25, 2026, to conclude Krug Week with an interactive culinary experience celebrating the extraordinary character of Krug Champagne alongside the art of a spectacular whole tuna cutting. The team will break down a whole tuna in the restaurant, while it’s paired with thoughtfully crafted dishes and exceptional Krug pours throughout the evening.
For Chef Tom Catherall, the journey has never really been about reaching a finish line. From his early days in the kitchen to becoming one of the defining forces in Atlanta’s restaurant scene, and now to his newest chapter along 30A, Catherall has continued to evolve while staying true to the fundamentals that have guided his career: great food, genuine hospitality, and an unwavering desire to create something memorable. Catherall is bringing decades of experience to a new generation of diners while continuing to challenge himself creatively. At this stage of his career, he could easily look back and be satisfied with what he has accomplished. Instead, he keeps looking ahead. For a chef whose career has been defined by reinvention, perhaps that is the most fitting conclusion of all:
Tom Catherall isn’t slowing down. He’s just moving on to his next course. Follow along for details about upcoming events on Instagram @aja30a and @lolabycheftom, or book your reservation at Aja30a.com or LolaCoastalItalian.com. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 105
La vitalité
For more information, visit Bellevue-Gstaad.ch. Photography courtesy of Le Grand Bellevue
La vitalité A ZEST FOR LIFE
Le Grand Bellevue in Gstaad is offering guests new ways to experience wellness in the Swiss Alps, pairing the hotel’s beauty and hospitality with the luxury of Le Grand Spa. Indulge body, mind, and spirit within the property’s fully renovated Alpine sanctuary. With over 32,000 square feet of world-class wellness facilities, guests can begin their journey in the Thermal Oasis, choosing between 17 different wellness zones, from steam baths to an invigorating ice fountain. Indulge in a deep-tissue massage with bespoke botanical blends, unwind in the heat and fragrance of the Herbal Sauna, or stargaze while enjoying the perfumed bubbles of the outdoor relaxation pool. The journey to relaxation begins here!
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ZOLLA STRENGTH MODERN FITNESS | QUALIFIED COACHES | INDIVIDUAL APPROACH
THE BEST INVESTMENT IN YOUR HEALTH AND FITNESS
THE BEST TRANSFORMATION GYM IN DESTIN, BY FOUNDER & CEO ZOLTAN NAGY 36236 EMERALD COAST PARKWAY UNIT B, DESTIN, FLORIDA 32541 (850) 368-1296 | ZOLLASTRENGTH.COM | @ZOLLASTRENGTH
La vitalité
LIFE GETS BETTER F WITH AGE
BY JORDAN STAGGS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WATERSOUND FOUNTAINS
or full- and part-time residents of South Walton, Florida, retirement living is better and more luxurious than ever. In 2024, Watersound Fountains opened as a brand-new apartment-style community with 148 units in Inlet Beach, offering residents the perfect blend of amenities, activities, dining, and independent living that has previously been lacking in the area near Scenic Highway 30A and its beautiful white-sand beaches.
Watersound Fountains Changes the Game for Retirement Living
A Watermark Retirement Community created in partnership with Chancey Architecture & Interior Design and The St. Joe Company, Watersound Fountains is located adjacent to Watersound Town Center, just a 0.2-mile walk from the shopping, dining, and events, and a short drive to the beach, Watersound Clubs including Camp Creek Golf Club, and all the restaurants and shops 30A has to offer. From full-time residents to part-time visitors and snowbirds, community members can enjoy the beach life without the burden of lawn care and maintenance, mortgages and taxes, HOA fees, cable and Wi-Fi, housekeeping, and more—all are included at Watersound Fountains, along with luxury amenities, activities, fitness facilities and classes, and much more. “Our residents are independent and want to live their lives to the fullest,” says executive director Paula Zeller, who joined the team at Watersound Fountains in 2025 as the sales director and fell in love with the community and its residents. Zeller’s background in the hospitality industry—specifically luxury hotels—made her a perfect fit, as she can anticipate the needs and wants of residents in a luxury lifestyle community. “These are seniors who are maybe empty nesters looking for a life near the beach, have lost spouses and want to connect with their peers, or even are part-time residents or snowbirds whose full-time residence is elsewhere. The white-sand beaches, golf courses, fishing, and weather we enjoy in South Walton are all the major factors driving our residents here, and the amenities provided at Watersound Fountains are the icing on the cake. It is like living in a five-star hotel!” The community itself is beautifully designed, decorated, and landscaped, thanks to Chancey Architecture & Interior Design, a Tampa-based firm with an office in Santa Rosa Beach. The firm’s founders, Walt and Sandra Chancey, have worked on numerous projects, from beachfront luxury homes to apartments and other retirement communities. Their attention to detail and refined eye make stepping into Watersound Fountains feel more like checking into a luxury hotel than an apartment complex. The 24-hour concierge and top-notch amenities carry that feeling into everything at Watersound Fountains. Four on-site dining experiences offer chef-created options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus grab-and-go market options, coffee and tea, pastries, and more for a casual day on the go. They include W Bar, The Central, and the Gallery Café, plus The Mark at Central, which offers a fine-dining, reservationonly signature restaurant serving steaks, seafood, fine wines, and desserts. Happy Hour and special events keep the dining rooms buzzing with activity, offering a social scene with something for everyone.
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The community takes fitness and wellness seriously, with a full-time personal trainer and Vitality Fitness Center available, plus the Balance Movement Studio for yoga, tai chi, Pilates, and meditation. Classes and one-on-one lessons are available for all skill levels, with the utmost care taken to ensure form and safety are top priorities. Indulge is Watersound Fountains’ spa and salon, offering on-site pampering for both residents and the public, including haircuts and coloring, manicures and pedicures, massages, and more. Residents can also visit the Renew Wellness Center, where visiting health specialists and clinicians are available for check-ups and consultations, along with physical therapists and holistic health professionals. The resort-style pool also supports fitness with water aerobics and other classes, plus general recreation and relaxation in the sparkling water, with access to the community garden, pool deck, bar, and outdoor kitchen, all adjacent to a beautiful nature preserve. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 109
La vitalité
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olf options are abundant in the area, with Watersound Clubs offering Watersound Fountains residents special monthly rates at select courses. Residents also needn’t leave the property for daily swing practice between rounds, as the immersive golf simulator room offers a private experience or friendly competition. And speaking of immersion—visit the expansive screening room for movies and sports events or the EngageVR virtual reality room, where residents can don their headsets and take a trip to explore the Titanic wreckage, Apollo 11 moon landing, or countless other incredible experiences. Unlike assisted living or memory care facilities, Watersound Fountains is an independent living retirement community, where residents are able and encouraged to get outside, explore, make friends, and visit family. There are no visiting restrictions or curfews, but the staff takes safety, security, and resident care very seriously, with emergency protocols and alerts in place when needed.
“This is a community for individuals, couples, or siblings and friends who want the freedom of a full life and the opportunity to meet new people, make new friends, and have a built-in community for socialization and fun,” Zeller says. “We have social events daily, planned outings, and so many fantastic programs that keep everyone very busy, if that’s what they want—but they also have the freedom to go out and eat, shop, play, and travel at will. We offer the convenience of having everything you need at your fingertips here on site, but the lifestyle of living at the beach and enjoying life at your leisure.”
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Many residents have family who live nearby, she explains. “A lot of our current residents moved in when their adult children decided to relocate to the beach, and they wanted a place closer to them and their grandchildren or great-grands.
IT’S KIND OF THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS.” Visit WatersoundFountains.com to learn more or schedule a tour.
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COMING SOON Founder & President Nancy Alcorn Announces Mercy Multiplied’s Newest Addition in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.
MERCY MULTIPLIED IS A CHRISTIAN NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT HAS PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE, FAITH-BASED RESIDENTIAL CARE, COUNSELING, AND RESOURCES TO HELP INDIVIDUALS OVERCOME LIFE-CONTROLLING ISSUES SINCE 1983. 24735 US Hwy 331 South, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, 32459
If you would like to donate to our ministry, please visit MercyMultiplied.com.
Inspirations
For more information, visit HYLLHotel.com. Photography courtesy of HYLL
Inspirations IMAGINE MORE
This holiday season, HYLL is inviting guests to trade the usual Christmas rush for three unhurried nights in the UK’s North Cotswolds. Set across 60 acres near Chipping Campden, the restored 17th-century manor house will welcome guests from December 24–27 with mulled wine, carols, and dinner on Christmas Eve, followed by a long Christmas Day lunch, an afternoon film, and relaxed supper before Boxing Day brings falconry, archery, and time to explore the estate. Rates begin at £2,095 ($2,780), including breakfast each morning. For New Year’s Eve, a two-night stay from December 31–January 2 brings dinner, fire eaters, music, and a DJ to welcome 2027, followed by a long New Year’s Day brunch and final dinner, with rates starting at £1,510 ($2,000). With 26 bedrooms and suites, interiors by Manchester studio YOUTH, and a seasonal restaurant led by Executive Chef David Kelman, HYLL offers a countryside celebration that feels intimate, festive, and refreshingly removed from the usual holiday pace.
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Inspirations Maybe Busy Isn’t Bad By Meghan Ryan Asbury
This time of year gets busy. No matter how hard I plan, it seems impossible to avoid the inevitable filling of my calendar, shopping cart, and gas tank from all the traveling. And don’t get me wrong, these are really good things. Yet somehow, do our days feel full while our hearts feel empty? Or is that just me? Whether it’s reminders of unmet expectations for what this year would look like, or the physical exhaustion of no routine (and maybe one too many holiday treats), it’s easy to go through the motions. Instead of looking for ways to fill our cups, we’re tempted to dissociate by scrolling our phones because it feels easier at the moment than checking off a very long to-do list. We’ll look through recipes we won’t make, workouts we’ll never try, or gifts we can’t afford, thinking it will inspire us to try something new. (I’ll be the first to raise my hand and admit my guilt in doing this!) But instead of sparking creativity, endless scrolling often leads us to miss what’s actually in front of us because it doesn’t seem “good” enough by comparison.
What if we all tried something different this year? As I stare down another year ending, I realize I don’t want an empty calendar with nothing to do, as tempting as it may seem. It’s not that I don’t want to be inspired to make memories and create new things. In fact, I want to stay busy. Just not in the ways we typically think.
you joy “just because”? What can you just plain say no to because it’s not what you actually want to do? What would fill your cup? Make a list. Check it twice, even. Cross things off, and add more to it often. Then do it all!
Sorry, I’m busy. Busy… Reading poetry and old books written before the internet was invented / Watching the sunset / Jumping in the ocean / Looking people in the eyes / Kissing the people I love / Trying something I’m bad at / Creating something with my hands / Drinking a good cup of coffee or a nice glass of wine. Maybe both? / Praying things I’m scared to pray / Dancing around the kitchen to a song I loved in high school / Doing kind things for strangers / Filling my days with joy instead of scrolling / Watering the grass God has given me .
Meghan Ryan Asbury is an author and speaker passionate about helping people live deeply rooted, purpose-filled lives. Through years of ministry experience, she’s had the privilege of encouraging people to discover their God-given gifts and step into the calling in front of them. When she’s not writing or speaking, you’ll likely find her with a book in hand, outside somewhere, or surrounded by the people she loves most. She and her husband are raising their family in her hometown of Santa Rosa Beach where they love the slower pace, salty air, and beauty of life near the water. Her first book You Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want is available anywhere books are sold.
I want to fill my days with things that fill me up—with excitement, that is. It feels frivolous in the midst of a season that demands so much, but the older I get, the more I realize how important it is to make time for what makes you feel more alive. So this is the invitation I’m giving you today: what can you get busy doing before the year ends? What’s the thing you keep saying, “I’ll make time to do that one day?” What tiny, seemingly small moments can you create in your day that bring
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Tote-ally Festive
Small Tote Bag, Clash de Cartier cartier.com – $4,100
SEASONAL SELECTIONS
As the season shifts toward celebrations, gatherings, and a little more time for giving, our holiday edit brings together pieces worth adding to your list. From fashion and accessories for her and him to elevated finds for the home and baby, these selections make gifting feel a little more inspired. Consider it a head start on the season, with plenty of time to find something special before the festivities officially begin! 118 | NO V E MBE R 2 026
C’est la vie GIFTS FOR HER
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Neck the Halls
Le Damier de Louis Vuitton Long Pendant, Yellow Gold and Diamonds us.louisvuitton.com – $14,900
Cold Shoulder 3
Greyson Jacket cartolinanantucket.com – $398
Gift Bag 4
Tara Travel Pouch olaazulsw.com – $15
5
Wrapped Around
Cygnet Stacking Rings meandem.com – $325
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Guide the Sleigh
Wool Cash Beanie houseofdagmar.com – $290
Mistletoe Ready 7
LV Rouge Satin Lipstick – 715 us.louisvuitton.com – $195 V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 119
C’est la vie
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Seasonal Stroll
SNACKS! The Lemon Twist Sneak Wide Leg Jeans motherdenim.com – $288
Warm Regards 9
Cub Scout Ridge Pullover xirena.com – $345
Starry 10
Color Blossom BB Star Sleeper, Pink Gold, Malachite and Diamonds – per unit us.louisvuitton.com – $3,000 11
Night
Color Blossom BB Sun Sleeper, Pink Gold, Malachite and Diamonds – per unit us.louisvuitton.com – $3,000
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Winter Wonderland
Dupioni Collarless Coat, White chanluu.com – $490
Rockin’ Around 13
Rock 26 Metallic Clutch zadig-et-voltaire.com – $618
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Ornaments
Transformer Earrings meandem.com – $495
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Tee the Season 15
The Boxy Goodie Paneled Embroidered Cotton-Jersey T-shirt net-a-porter.com – $140
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Time for Cheer
Tambour Spin Time, Automatic, 39.5mm, White Gold us.louisvuitton.com – $85,500
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C’est la vie GIFTS FOR HIM
Silent Night In 17
Campfire Sweatpants – Tree Bark southernshirt.com – $80
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Evergreen
Wool Coaches Jacket noahny.com – $498
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Holiday Hike
Men’s Hurricane XLT3 Sandal teva.com – $100
Buttoned Up 20
Walter Relaxed Shirt playlovewin.com – $295
Top It Off 21
Pinewood Plaid 6-Panel Cap noahny.com – $98
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Merry Mulligan
Invitational Tee SS – Bright White southernshirt.com – $38
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C’est la vie
Sneaker Season 23
LV Drop 300 Sneaker us.louisvuitton.com – $970
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Jack-et Frost
On Point Canvas Field Jacket – Mossberg southernshirt.com – $120
Man’s Best Friend 25
Wagd 5m lead thehappyhoundinitiative.com – $75
Christmas Countdown 26
Swatch Mission to Saturn swatch.com – $300
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Under the Trees
The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack, Cedar amazon.com – $70
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Neat Knit
Donegal Beanie noahny.com – $68
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Cozy by Nature 29
Max Comfort Henley LS, Walnut southernshirt.com – $64
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Rockin’ Around
Grownsy Baby Swings for Infants, Dual Motion Side-to-Side & Front-to-Back amazon.com – $120
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C’est la vie HOME & BABY
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Season’s Seating
Bellamy Modular Sofa luxxu.net – Contact for pricing
Bookmarked 32
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Very Bergdorf Coffee-Table Book assouline.com – $120
Merry & Bright
Dorset Aperitif Glass, Set of 2 simonpearce.com – $170
Holiday Spirit 34
St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur stgermainliqueur.com – $34.99 35
Spritz of Joy
Darling Point x Thomas Lélu Eau de Parfum us.memoparis.com – $350
Well Read 36
Coastal Villas: Luxury Living on the Gulf Coast by Geoff Chick amazon.com – $75
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Christmas Future
Drawing Robot for Kids Ages 3–8 grownsy.com – $70
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La scène
A general view of the Elegance Is Authority: The Story, Style, and Power of Panem exhibit at Musée Rodin Photo by Victor Boyko/Getty Images for Lionsgate
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T H E H U N G E R G A M E S : S U N R I S E O N T H E R E A P I N G P R E S S TO U R The road back to Panem is taking center stage as The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping kicks off its promotional tour ahead of the movie’s November 20 premiere. In Paris, stars Joseph Zada and Mckenna Grace made a fashion-forward appearance celebrating the franchise’s iconic costumes, while New York Comic Con brought fans into the world of the 50th Hunger Games through immersive experiences and cast appearances. The excitement continued in Sydney with a global fan event, setting the stage for the highly anticipated November release. Photography courtesy of EPK.tv V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 131
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The Last Word
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CELEBRATIONS & REMEMBRANCES BY MYLES MELLOR
ACROSS
DOWN
1 7 9 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 23 25 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35
1 2
Time when former military are honored, 2 words Arrival time, briefly Long-standing practice of gratitude and remembrance, for example Broadcast Convent dweller Benefit Coalition or union of nations Final part “Taps” instrument Elaborate spectacle, parade, or show Signaling of the beginning of the official duty day and the raising of the flag Temporary quarters In the role of Stat for a baseball slugger, briefly Flags Award of honor Road surfacing material Depart Grade school groups., abbr. Turf
3 4 5 6 8 10 11 16 17 18 20 22 24 26 27 30 31
Makes a selection on a ballot Holiday based on the early pioneers’ celebration of the harvest Bridle Moving to a beat, often in celebration Pine for something Gather crops Titanium symbol Arriving soon “___ treat!” They fall in the fall Fruit drink suffix Military unit Legal people Granted a prize, say Endures Business grad’s qualification, briefly Plane captain Carry-all Married woman’s title
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1
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Au revoir!
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Ushuemi wake u (Red bird water), 2026. Acrylic on cotton paper, 23 5/8 x 35 7/16 in. (60 x 90 cm) © Sheroanawe Hakihiiwe. Image courtesy of Galería ABRA, Caracas / Josselin Chalbaud
Au revoir! BEFORE YOU GO . . .
Ahead of Miami Art Week, the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami will debut the first solo US museum exhibition of Venezuelan artist Sheroanawe Hakihiiwe on November 19, presented jointly with the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain. Bringing together more than 100 works spanning more than 25 years, the exhibition explores Hakihiiwe’s visual language and his relationship with the natural world, drawing from the flora, fauna, cultural heritage, and ancestral knowledge of the Yanomami community where he was raised and continues to live along Venezuela’s upper Orinoco River. Known for his drawings, paintings, and prints on handmade paper, the artist expands his practice here through animation, murals, and site-specific installations, including a new film and a set of shamanic poles. Organized across four sections, the exhibition traces the evolution of his work while offering Miami audiences a closer look at an artist whose practice is deeply connected to place, memory, and the environment.
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