Cullman, AL February 2026

Love local in Cullman

February has always been a month about love — and here in Cullman, love looks a little different. It looks like supporting one another, showing up for our neighbors and taking pride in the place we call home.

Cullman has a rich history built on hard work, faith, family and community. From its early beginnings to the vibrant town we see today, this is a place where stories matter — where businesses are often family run, where traditions are passed down and where people still believe in doing things the right way. That kind of history is something to be celebrated.

This month’s "Love local" issue is close to my heart. Cullman City Lifestyle was created to tell the stories of the people and businesses who make our community special — the ones who invest their time, talent and passion right here at home. When you support a local business, you’re supporting a dream, a family and a future. That kind of love has a ripple effect that reaches far beyond a single purchase.

I am so proud to live, work and raise my family in Cullman. I’ve watched this community grow while still holding tight to the values that make it feel like home. That balance — honoring our history while continuing to move forward — is what makes Cullman such a remarkable place.

As you turn the pages of this issue, I hope you feel inspired to love local in big ways and small ones. Visit a shop you’ve never been to. Shake the hand of a business owner. Share a story. Support the people who pour their hearts into this community every day.

Thank you for loving Cullman as much as I do. It is truly an honor to tell its story.

With gratitude,

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Joel McWhorter

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY

1-6: Cullman Savings Bank hosted its annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest.

many fun things to do at Cullman Christkindlmarkt

business monthly

Emily Anderson Fine Art

Emily Anderson Fine Art graces the cover with an original piece from her "Into the Woods" series. This featured artwork is a 16x20 acrylic cradled panel, rich in texture and depth. The original is available for purchase, along with prints and additional works from the collection. Select pieces can be viewed in person at Gervais & Lulu’s, with purchasing options available online at emilyandersonfineart.com.

Golden Touch Luxury Showers

Golden Touch Luxury Showers brings high-end bathroom design and remodeling to Cullman with stunning luxury showers and tailored installations. Located at 216 Second Ave. SE,  Golden Touch specializes in creating beautiful, functional spaces that elevate everyday living. Whether you’re upgrading or remodeling, their expert team delivers quality craftsmanship and personalized service. Visit goldentouchluxuryshowers.com to explore products, services and schedule consultations.

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The Link of Cullman County

The Link of Cullman County is a community-focused nonprofit providing vital support to neighbors in need, including food through its pantry, clean water access, case management and more. Each month the pantry serves hundreds of local families facing food insecurity, with about 980 households helped regularly through distributions and supportive services.  You can donate online at linkingcullman.org or give pantry items and volunteer your time to help feed and uplift your neighbors.

LOVE and TRADITION: Gigi’s Legacy

Cullman Florist will celebrate 60 years in 2026

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY CULLMAN FLORIST

Cullman Florist is celebrating its 60th year in 2026! The Cullman staple was purchased by the late Geneva King (Gigi) in 1966 from Bright and Ward Florist and Greenhouse. It is so much more than a place to buy beautiful flowers; it is a family business built from love and tradition.

According to one of the florist managers, Stephanie Cook, the day Geneva bought the shop, she surprised her daughter, Annette King, by picking her up from fourth grade in the florist station wagon.

“Cullman Florist became Geneva’s baby and her legacy. She threw everything she had into creating a welcoming environment where people felt like family. She had a knack for making her customers feel special,” Stephanie shared. “Whether they needed sympathy flowers, birthday arrangements, get-well or wedding flowers, Geneva and her staff created beautiful designs while building lasting relationships.

“Annette purchased the florist from her mom in 1999 when Geneva’s health began to fail,” Stephanie continued. “Many people worked alongside Geneva during the early years. Some stayed a few years and some stayed their entire career. To this day, we still have people come in who worked with Geneva either helping in the shop or delivering during the holidays.”

In the 60s and 70s the florist was located on Highway 278. It moved to Fifth Street Southeast just down from the Busy Bee Cafe in the early 80s. The April 27, 2011, tornado destroyed the

building, and Cullman Florist relocated to the Warehouse District. Finally, in 2018, the shop moved to Fourth Street Southeast, between Hinkle Shoe Shop and Gervais & Lulu Vin Fins & Champagnes. The florist was home at last! Over 30-plus years Geneva created an environment that felt like home for many of her employees and clients. Carla Fussell and Stephanie, the managers of the florist, continue to embody that today.

“Customers come just to visit our staff and furry friends. We continue to work to build strong community ties and develop relationships,” said Stephanie. “The Cullman Florist family is proud to carry on with her legacy. We follow in her footsteps by being very community involved and working with different groups throughout the area. We hear stories about how Geneva gave them a carnation when they were children and told them, ‘Be sure to come back when you are planning your wedding.’ We love hearing these stories about Geneva!”

She continued, “Our goal has always been to provide a customer service experience that the big stores can’t or won’t. Our staff prides itself on our commitment to exceeding customers’ expectations. Our staff is a family, and we like our customers to feel like they are a part of that. We celebrate, congratulate and cry with our customers. We provide a special touch for all the occasions in their lives. Our passion is helping families go through loss and providing a fitting, personalized memorial for their family members.”

Cullman Florist’s touch can be seen all through the community, year-round.

“We are Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce members; we attend the Women in Business meetings to meet other women in the community and other groups and events when time allows,” Stephanie said. “One of the shops’ most special relationships is with local nonprofit Flourish of Cullman. Isaac Jackson has worked with us for three years now.  Isaac was recently the recipient of the Employee of Year award from the Alabama Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities.”

Cullman Florist is located at 119 Fourth St. SE in downtown Cullman.

Find it online at www.cullmanflorist.com, www. facebook.com/cullmanflorist or www.instagram. com/cullmanflorist. Contact the shop at 256-7340263 or cullmanflorist@yahoo.com.

The Cullman Florist Team

Through classes and design workshops from worldrenowned instructors, Cullman Florist designers are well prepared to carry on the Cullman Florist legacy. It has five full-time designers (Carla Fussell, Stephanie Cook, Amy Doss, Hannah Allred, Wesley Warren), two delivery drivers (Alan Jester, Dan Brown), three frontend team members (Susie Dimmock, Mallory Sibley, Nora Campbell) and numerous part-time designers and drivers. The florist not only offers beautiful arrangements for all occasions, but also perpetual plant care, bouquet of the month arrangements and holiday decorating for homes and businesses and perpetual cemetery care for your loved ones who have passed on. You never know where you will see one of the Cullman Florist team members around town!

COME FOR A WEEKEND...

...STAY FOR A LIFETIME

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CULLMAN VACATION RENTALS

Beth and Edgar Veigl have always loved buying, fixing up and selling homes. But it was during the pandemic the couple stumbled on the home that turned their passion into Cullman Vacation Rentals.

“We found it in the most unexpected place: Facebook Marketplace!  Edgar is still amazed. Only we would be scrolling Facebook during a global crisis and accidentally end up with a whole house,” Beth laughed. “As we got into the renovation, I found myself getting more and more attached to it. Edgar — who has been building homes and managing

long-term rentals since he was 9 — likes to remind me, ‘You never get emotionally attached to a piece of real estate.’ Well… halfway through, I looked at him and said, ‘I just LOVE this house.’ Definitely not what he wanted to hear. He quickly reminded me we don’t keep our renovation homes, and if I wanted to keep this one, it would need to support itself.”

That home, now called “The Cullman Haus,” is the heart of Cullman Vacation Rentals.

Edgar and Beth make a great team. He brings the structure and craftsmanship, and she the creativity and vision.

“I'm always collecting pieces — different styles, eras, textures — and tucking them away for just the right project,” said Beth. “Each property truly ‘speaks’ to me the minute I walk through the door. I absolutely love looking and finding pieces that remind me of my grandmother — things she owned or would have incorporated into her designs. She worked alongside the incredible designer Frank Lincoln, and truly, she’s the reason I fell in love with design in the first place.”

Each home feels warm, personal and “just a tiny bit magical,” she said.

“Sharing Cullman with our guests is honestly one of our favorite parts. We LOVE bragging on this town. From the best little eateries and cozy coffee spots to the cutest boutiques, historic gems, gorgeous parks, hiking trails and festivals — there’s always something fun going on, and we make sure our guests don’t miss it.”

She added, “Here’s the magic of Cullman: people come for a weekend… and then a few of them never leave. Truly. Several of our guests have ended up moving here

after experiencing life in this charming little town. We think that says everything.”

Cullman Vacation Rentals’ properties include The Cullman Haus, Sweet Suite Cullman, The Humble Bee Cottage-Cullman, Sweet Tea Cottage-Cullman and Heron Haus Cottage-Cullman.

Asked to pick a favorite, Beth smiled, “It feels a little like choosing a favorite child — but if I had to, it would be The Cullman Haus, our very first home and the one that launched this whole wild, wonderful adventure.”

She said she and Edgar updated the entire home, but preserved every bit of character they could.

The Veigls have two more homes and a couple of Smith Lake properties in the works.

“We’re continuing to dream, design and develop spaces that reflect the charm of Cullman while expanding into experiences that elevate how guests live, work and vacation here,” said Beth. “We love what we do, and we can’t wait for everyone to see what’s coming!”

www.cullmanvacationrentals.com

There's something magical about getting lost in the stacks at the

A Place for Everyone

‘Strong libraries are a sign that a community is thriving because they promote quality of life’

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CULLMAN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM

One of the most tremendous assets in the community is the Cullman County Public Library System (CCPLS), which was established in the 1960s. Most people are familiar with the system’s main branch in downtown Cullman. There are also community branches in Hanceville, Holly Pond, Garden City and Colony.

“The libraries are free for anyone who lives, works or goes to school in Cullman County and many services and programs offered do not even require a person to have a library card,” said CCPLS Director Amber Thornton. “The library isn’t just a building with books in it. We provide equal access to information, educational resources, a bridge for the digital divide, support for job seekers, social services connections and a free ‘third space’ for those who need a place to rest.”

The libraries offer a wide variety of programs, clubs and contests.

“We believe providing regular storytime programs helps prepare children for school, teaching them listening skills, supporting language development and fostering a love of learning and reading at an early age,” said Thornton. “It’s also important to us to provide educational opportunities for patrons of all ages and interests. We hold writing contests multiple times per year. We also provide free public computer access, notary services, Wi-Fi and help with technology through our ‘Borrow a Librarian’ program.’”

If there’s one thing library staff appreciate, it’s volunteers! They’re vital, helping execute programs, keep the library tidy, shelve books, sort donations and more.

“Volunteers are so important because we’re able to make more things happen and better serve our community,” Thornton said. “The Friends of the Public Libraries of Cullman County is a nonprofit that helps plan and execute fundraising events to benefit programs and the Capital Campaign to renovate and expand our downtown building. It’s crucial to our success, as they support financially, through advocacy and volunteering. Volunteers also help the library financially. One hour of volunteer time is worth $31.80, and this time can be used as local match funding in grant writing.”

One thing the library does that most people may not realize is helping patrons bridge the “digital divide.”

“More and more people are left behind in the digital skills they need in their daily lives. This especially affects aging patrons,” shared Thornton. “A common misconception is the library only provides books and programs, but we’re actually a hub for social services and business needs that many people cannot access for free elsewhere. We help people create/print/fax documents, build resumes and perform research. We provide free notary services every weekday and Wi-Fi in the building and on mobile hotspots for borrowing. We also offer e-books and audiobooks for those who prefer digital reading or cannot see well.”

Over the next five years, the CCPLS hopes to continue meeting the informational needs of the community, providing high-quality materials and services, serving as the heart of the community for literacy and lifelong learning, creating community partnerships and improving library facilities through renovation and expansion.

Donate to the Capital Campaign: friendsofthepubliclibrariescullman.org

Sign up to volunteer: cullmanlib.org

“People can help simply by getting a library card. This helps our statistics when we apply for grants and turn in yearly reports to the Alabama Public Library System,” Thornton explained. “The best way our community can support us is to visit, meet us and help us advocate.”

From Page to Preserve

How “The Call of the Wild” shaped a life

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICK EARWOOD, JOEL MCWHORTER

RICK EARWOOD

OWNER, ROUGH EDGE UPLAND BIRD HUNTS

Rick Earwood owns and operates the wildly popular Rough Edge Upland Bird Hunts on a preserve between Holly Pond and Baileyton. He loves the outdoors and he loves to hunt. Here, we talk to him about both.

What is it about the outdoors and hunting that calls to you?

I guess it would be the closeness that my dad and I shared at an early age. I’ve always felt more comfortable and complete in the outdoors. As an elementary boy I read “The Call of the Wild,” and it was if I were in the pages. Many outdoor adventure stories would follow until I was able to make my own.

Do you see hunting as more sport, tradition or lifestyle?

I see hunting as all of those things. I have used all of those words to describe hunting. It has been our heritage and use of survival for thousands of years.

What’s the biggest challenge in quail hunting — the birds or the patience required?

It’s definitely the patience required. There is no way of knowing where the birds will be or the direction they will

fly when they explode out of the ground cover. It takes a great deal of patience to wait for the bird to fly away. The pattern of the shot from the gun determines when to pull the trigger.

Do you have a favorite bird dog story from the field that captures the bond between hunter and companion?

I would say retrieving is always the best story. A lot of dogs can point quail. It’s very important for all hunters to hit the bird that their companion finds for them. It’s a bond built over time between hunter and companion. When my companion goes out of sight to find the bird I’ve shot, he may stay gone for five minutes. The bond is in his commitment to finish what you both started. There is no greater joy than seeing them coming in view with the bird in their mouth. It’s a celebration every time. It’s a story every time.

“

“When my companion goes out of sight to find the bird I’ve shot, he may stay gone for five minutes. The bond is in his commitment to finish what you both started. There is no greater joy than

seeing them coming in view with the bird in their mouth.”

What’s the best story you tell around the fire after a day in the field?

I just had a hunt where I shot a triple out of a single covey rise. A best friend Joel McWhorter and I have hunted together our whole lives. I trust him with my life and I know he feels the same way. We were on a point and couldn’t find the birds. I was kicking around close to the birds; they flushed and I ducked to the ground as he shot over my head without saying a word. I watched the birds fall and winked back at him. Joel and I have been around one another in the outdoors for so long words aren’t really needed anymore.

roughedgehunts.com

rickearwood69@gmail.com 256-620-0306

Local artisan Bailey Falkner dishes on her cottage bakery, Bailey's Bread

BAKING (AND BREAKING) BREAD

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BAILEY FALKNER

Local artisan Bailey Falkner describes her cottage bakery, Bailey’s Bread, as being “tucked away in the beautiful fields of Arkadelphia in our humble home.”

“In May 2024, we made our debut with a sold-out pop-up event at Werner’s Trading Company in Cullman, followed by our first season at the Festhalle Farmers Market in downtown Cullman,” Bailey shared. “We’re excited for our return to the Festhalle in March 2026.”

In the winter months, while the market is closed, Bailey’s Bread offers custom baking services with local pick-up options. She also hosts seasonal pop-up events at businesses in town.

Bailey is a wife and mother, so running a business out of her kitchen comes with challenges – but bigger rewards.

“Undoubtedly, my greatest satisfaction in running a home-based bakery comes from being surrounded by the sounds of my children playing, working in tandem with my husband and having the opportunity to teach our children valuable multitasking skills,” she explained. “However, in retrospect, the greatest challenge would most definitely be the lack of space, as we look forward to growing into something like a brick-and-mortar presence in Arkadelphia – something to offer to our community.”

Bailey’s creations are sought after, with both her skill and the care she puts into each item evident. I asked her, “Which old-world technique do you swear by, and which modern method has surprised you the most?”

“Baking with freshly milled flour,” she answered. “I began researching flour many years ago due to an unresolved question stemming from my religious beliefs, specifically the statement made by Jesus, ‘I am the bread of life.’ Given that bread is often perceived as unhealthy, I found this declaration to be somewhat perplexing. Until I discovered what bread he was comparing himself to. Something good, something real and without lack.”

She continued, “I was pleasantly surprised by the modern flour-making process, which utilizes a countertop mill for simplicity. My initial thoughts on freshly milled flour were thoughts of ancient times, where a millstone would be powered by a donkey or ox. However, these modern mills are incredibly convenient and efficient, providing Bailey’s Bread with delicate milled flour for our pastries and bread, as well as coarser flour for our artisanal loaves, such as pumpernickel rye or Ancient Grain Sourdough.”

So, what’s Bailey’s “signature” item?

“Challah,” she said. “The delicate, sweet, savory bread that sits in the center of our Shabbat table every Friday evening. A bread that is broken and shared with our family for years now and one that our dear customers now adore.”

Bailey said there’s one ingredient she considers non-negotiable for great bread: “Good flour – flour that is unbleached and fresh.”

Bailey’s Bread is located in Arkadelphia. Get updates, as well as a schedule, on Facebook @Bailey’sBread or call 256-636-2375.

“My greatest satisfaction in running a home-based bakery comes from being surrounded by the sounds of my children playing, working in tandem with my husband…”

PERMISSION to be

cheesy

VALENTINE’S DAY CHEESECAKE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSIE SUPPES

Valentine’s Day is all about showing your loved one just how much you care. Rather than opting for the predictable chocolates and flowers, why not showcase your culinary prowess and create a one-of-a-kind cheesecake? Not only will this delectable treat demonstrate your affection, but it will also add a personal and luxurious touch

to the holiday celebration. Make this Valentine’s Day truly memorable by going above and beyond with a heartfelt, homemade gift. Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for two because it’s both rich and indulgent, but not too heavy. Plus, it can be easily customized to fit your own personal taste and it’s much easier than you think!

TO MAKE THE PERFECT CHEESECAKE,

• 1 pound cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 3 eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Next, add in the sour cream and heavy cream and mix until everything is well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cheesecake is set. Let cool completely before serving.

For this recipe, we decided to add berries and honey to the top of our cheesecake. Take the time to make yours special to your relationship. With toppings such as chocolate, jelly, whip cream, berries, fruit, or whatever your partner’s favorite is you’re sure to make them smile. Make things colorful by adding food coloring to the mix, it can even be made in their

YOU’LL NEED:

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 prepared graham cracker crust

favorite color. You can also change things up by making your own crust with Oreos or cinnamon crackers.

To elevate this recipe to the next level, consider using high-quality ingredients such as grass-fed cream cheese and locally sourced honey. For added luxury, try using a blend of different types of berries, or even substituting the graham cracker crust with a crust made of crushed pistachios or hazelnuts.

In addition to adding a variety of toppings, you can also get creative with the presentation. For example, try using a springform pan to create a heart-shaped cheesecake, or using cookie cutters to create fun shapes out of the cheesecake slices. You can also garnish the cheesecake with edible flowers or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a truly indulgent experience.

Bridal Show

at The venue at Cot ton Creek

M arch 1, 2026 | 2pm-5pm Scan here to purchase tickets!

Join us for an unforgettable Bridal Show experience featuring a live fashion show, top local wedding vendors, fabulous door prizes & giveaways, exclusive discounted booking offers, drinks, and so much more!