HOME + DESIGN ELEVATING HOMES AND BUSINESSES, BRANDI HEZINGER GUIDES CLIENTS WITH UNMATCHED EXPERTISE.
MARCH 2026
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k f b m a . c o m
Design, Heart, and Home: Leaders Shaping the Emerald Coast
Dear Readers,
Home is more than walls and furniture, it’s where life happens, creativity thrives, and memories are made. On the Emerald Coast, a few standout leaders are helping residents and businesses alike transform spaces into reflections of style, function, and heart. From kitchen makeovers to custom boat upholstery, their work reminds us that good design is both practical and inspiring.
Cover Model Brandi Hezinger – Real Estate & Business Strategy
Brandi sees homes and investments through a unique lens. Beyond selling or staging, she guides clients through business acquisitions and commercial opportunities, helping them maximize both value and lifestyle. For Brandi, every home is more than a listing—it’s a space where design meets strategy, where thoughtful choices create long-term impact.
The Canvas Lady – Custom Canvas & Upholstery
Julia McPherson and her team have spent 25 years turning vision into reality. From custom furniture and boat cushions to durable outdoor fabrics, their craftsmanship blends beauty, durability, and function. Each project reflects their deep understanding of how spaces are used, showing that quality design enhances both home and lifestyle.
A Superior Mechanical – HVAC & Community Support
Jimy and Martha Thorpe built a company where comfort meets care. Their HVAC expertise keeps homes cozy year-round, while initiatives like AC giveaways and community lunches for veterans and first responders show that a home’s comfort is about more than temperature—it’s about heart, generosity, and connection.
N-Hance of the Emerald Coast – Cabinet Transformations
Cynthia brings global design experience straight into local kitchens. Using environmentally safe products and precise techniques, she transforms cabinets into spaces that are functional, stylish, and timeless. Even small updates—from fresh paint to new hardware—can completely elevate a home, showing that thoughtful design turns everyday spaces into places that inspire.
These local leaders prove that creativity, strategy, and generosity turn houses into homes and businesses into legacies—right here on the Emerald Coast.
Your Publisher,
CARMEN FOSTER, PUBLISHER
@DESTINCITYLIFESTYLE CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/DESTIN
March 2026
PUBLISHER
Carmen Foster | carmen.foster@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Josh Foster | josh.foster@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Josh Foster | josh.foster@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Maria Serondo | destincitylifestyle@gmail.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Maria Serondo | destincitylifestyle@gmail.com
MARKET SUPPORT DIRECTOR
Michele Pavlich | Covenantcookiecreations@gmail.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Ernalyn Ruda | er.photography20@gmail.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
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COASTAL HOMES ELEVATED
ARTICLE BY CARA VASS | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ERNALYN RUDA-EMERALD
LEADING REALTOR, ENTREPRENEUR, AND MOM TRANSFORMING NORTHWEST FLORIDA’S LUXURY LIFESTYLE
Brandi Hezinger sees homes differently. As a seasoned realtor, creative artist, and proud mom of two daughters, she blends heart, strategy, and design to make every listing shine.
With formal training in home staging from a Los Angeles design school, Brandi prepares each home with expert precision. She personally walks through properties with her sellers, guiding them through editing, decluttering, and thoughtful updates that allow buyers to emotionally connect the moment they enter. From coordinating fresh paint to deep cleaning and final touches, Brandi ensures every home feels polished and move-in ready.
Her complimentary staging is a signature part of her process and plays a major role in helping sellers stand out—especially in today’s competitive coastal market.
She tailors her approach by community: refined and minimal in Alys Beach, warm and lifestyle-focused in Miramar Beach, and energetic and view-driven in Destin FL. Each strategy is designed to reflect the buyer mindset unique to that area.
With increased inventory across the Emerald Coast, buyers are more selective than ever. Brandi helps her clients rise above the noise by presenting homes that feel intentional, elevated, and unforgettable.
Brandi’s expertise goes far beyond traditional real estate. Known for her calm guidance and business mindset, she helps clients navigate both residential and commercial decisions with confidence. Her expanding role with The Agency Northwest Florida Beaches has opened doors in luxury, commercial, and mergers and acquisitions. She is also the founder of Silver Mergers and Acquisitions Services LLC, where she assists entrepreneurs with business sales, valuations, franchise resales, consulting, buyer searches, equipment appraisals, and commercial real estate.
As both a business owner and mom of two, Brandi understands transitions on a personal level. She encourages clients to view every move—whether home or business—as a step toward long-term growth. Her mission is to empower people to move forward boldly and build the future they envision.
2026 Neighbor in Need Giveaway
The Canvas Lady Legacy
Celebrating 25 years of craftsmanship, passion, and community support in Destin, Florida.
For 25 years, The Canvas Lady has been a cornerstone of Destin, creating custom canvas and upholstery solutions for boats, homes, and businesses. What began as a love for furniture in Tupelo, Mississippi, grew into a passion for marine upholstery, guided by mentors who taught the art of craftsmanship and dedication.
In 2001, Julia McPherson opened The Canvas Lady in Destin, quickly earning a reputation for quality, creativity, and personalized service. From Bimini tops and dodgers to boat cushions and custom furniture, every project reflects the team’s expertise and attention to detail.
Julia expresses deep gratitude for the talented individuals who have shaped the business over the years. Her heartfelt thanks go to Ellie, Dale, Tony, Annette, Mary, Sherri, Contessa, Amanda, Michael, Stephanie, Natalia, Roger, Italia, Dmitri, Terry, and Traci. Their dedication, skill, and creativity have been the backbone of the company, enabling The Canvas Lady to thrive through challenges and successes alike. With each project, Julia and her team continue to honor their commitment to durability, innovation, and exceptional service, ensuring clients receive products built to last.
Julia McPherson’s journey began long before Destin. Early experiences in Tupelo furniture factories and working as a programmer and inspector shaped a foundation of skill and ingenuity. Mentors like Earl Wright and Richard Green helped Julia master the art of upholstery and boat interiors, giving her hands-on knowledge that would define her career.
A move to Destin in 2001 marked a new chapter for Julia. Living aboard a schooner and fully embracing harbor life, she discovered a deep passion for marine projects. Designing custom canvases, cushions, and interiors became her true calling—creative, hands-on work that brought both joy and purpose. Along the way, The Canvas Lady faced challenges, including the devastation of Hurricane Ivan, but each obstacle became an opportunity to grow. With a skilled and dedicated team supporting her vision, Julia built a workplace grounded in expertise, innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence, ensuring every project— big or small—reflected the highest standards of craftsmanship.
The business thrives not just because of exceptional work but also through community partnerships. Local restaurants, boat captains, and fellow canvas shops contribute to a collaborative spirit that defines Destin. Each project—whether a yacht interior, bridge enclosure, or custom outdoor cushion—is completed with precision, care, and respect for the client’s vision.
The Canvas Lady team stays ahead of industry trends, using the finest materials, hardware, and techniques while celebrating the success of others in the field. From commercial upholstery to foul weather curtains and awning recovery, the company ensures each product enhances its surroundings and protects the client’s investment.
With 25 years behind them, The Canvas Lady remains committed to custom craftsmanship, exceptional service, and honoring the community that made this journey possible. Destin is not just home—it’s family, inspiration, and the heart of every stitch and seam. CONTINUED >
DESTIN, NICEVILLE, FORT WALTON, SHALIMAR, CRESTVIEW
VETS HELPING VETS & FIRST RESPONDERS
WHAT DOES GROWTH LOOK LIKE FOR A SUPERIOR MECHANICAL?
“If we embody the spirit of generosity and keep using the blueprint of giving back to our community we will continue to flourish.”
ARTICLE BY MARTA ROSE-THORPE
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
These are the words my husband lives by...the seeds he planted in this company when he launched A Superior Mechanical 23 years ago. From the very beginning, this HVAC business was more than just helping locals “Stay Cool As A Cucumber” in the summer and ensuring that they stay cozy and warm in the winter. A United States Army Veteran who served during the Gulf War, Jimy Thorpe has always held the highest regard for the men and women who serve our country.
This group also includes FirstResponders, the men and women who keep our communities safe. In 2014, he created the tagline “Vets Helping Vets” -later elevated to “Vets Helping Vets & First Responders” – and decided to start giving what he had to give: air conditioning units.
In 2015, Jimy and I launched our quarterly Veteran Appreciation Lunch where we presented the HVAC Giveaway which included the AC Unit + Installation. These lunches were first held at Harley-Davidson PCB, later moving to Texas Roadhouse in Pier Park, and in 2019 we launched a second lunch series in Miramar Beach at Faith Assembly Church (AKA “The Rock ‘n Roll Church”).
Over the years we grew from about 40 to 350 guests per event. The giveaway was open to all who have served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and all First Responders including EMT/Medics, Police, Sheriffs and Fire Fighters.
“Giving back to Veterans and First Responders is like taking the time to help my father (who served in the U.S. Marines),” says Jimy. “It’s something that comes second nature; it’s instinctive and something that’s driven in me.”
The next Appreciation Lunch takes place on Tuesday, April 21 from 11:30 AM to 1 PM at the Niceville Community Center, 204 Partin Drive North, Niceville.
The event will include a hot lunch catered by Swiftly Catered, Niceville High School’s Presentation of Colors, a brief welcome from our sponsors and supporters, and the AC Giveaway. A Superior Mechanical is based in Panama City
Beach and has serviced Bay County since 2002. In 2019 we opened our Santa Rosa Beach office to service Walton County, and in January 2026 we opened our Niceville office to service Okaloosa County. As we move westward toward Pensacola, we have elevated our size, scope and services, now offering all plumbing services and soon, electrical. We offer services for residential, vacation rentals, commercial, larger projects like wellness clinics and schools, and new construction.
I am proud of our growth, especially in a climate that is highly competitive as well as economically challenging these past few years. Without a doubt, it’s our level of service that sets us apart from the rest. The training and coaching that Jimy offers to the team. The skills and fine-tuning he pours into each individual. That, and the spirit of generosity… supporting local chambers, charities, community organizations…and people. It is said that A rising tide lifts all ships. If we pour into our community and continue helping others, how can we not prosper as well?
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ARTICLE BY EVYENIA PAPAGEORGE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
SEE THE DIFFERENCE: Custom Glass TRANSFORMS YOUR Space
Inside the craft and precision behind Frameless By Design,delivering highquality glass solutions built to last
ARTICLE
BY TESSA SUMNER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
For more than 25 years, Frameless By Design, The Shower Door Company, has been a trusted name in custom glass across Florida and beyond. They specialize in frameless shower doors, interior glass, handrails, and vanity mirrors. Every project is carefully measured, designed, and installed to fit perfectly, with a sleek, modern look built to last.
At Frameless By Design, good design is about more than looks. It’s about creating glass that works well, lasts for years, and fits naturally into everyday spaces. That’s why homeowners, builders, and designers rely on their experience and attention to detail. Every project is handled by professionals who truly understand glass and how it performs in real spaces.
Their signature feature, frameless shower enclosures, removes bulky frames to create bathrooms that feel open, bright, and inviting. These showers are easier to clean, look modern, and make rooms feel larger. The result is a space that’s both stylish and practical.
Their work goes beyond bathrooms. Custom glass handrails are strong, safe, and visually clean. Interior glass partitions define spaces without blocking light, while vanity mirrors are custom-fit to become functional and eye-catching design elements. From the first free consultation to final installation, the process is simple and stress-free. Clients often praise the team for punctuality, clear communication, and getting the job done right the first time.
Now open in Panama City Beach, their showroom at 107 Estes Place lets visitors see real glass designs up close, get expert guidance, and spark ideas for their next project.
Transforming kitchens with style, care, and lasting beauty for Emerald Coast homes
Kitchens Reimagined, Homes Transformed
ARTICLE BY CARA VOSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERNALYN RUDA-EMERALD BLUE PHOTOGRAPHY LLC
Cynthia has always been drawn to the way spaces shape how we live. With a degree in Interior Design from the University of Georgia, she began her career in design, moved into wall coverings, and then the hospitality industry, traveling the world and honing her eye for detail. When she moved to Destin in 2018, the constant travel no longer fit her life in paradise. Real estate gave her the perfect opportunity to reconnect with her design roots, helping homeowners prepare and reimagine their spaces. But it was kitchens that captured her attention—a place where she saw a clear need for quality, consistency, and professional cabinet updates.
After discovering N-Hance of the Emerald Coast, Cynthia knew she had found the perfect fit. Their environmentally safe products, precise process, and commitment to detail aligned perfectly with her standards. “This allows me to bring my design experience full circle,” she says, “creating spaces that feel intentional, personal, and lasting.”
For Cynthia, home is more than walls—it’s comfort, family, and self-expression. That belief guides every project. Many homeowners
reach out feeling overwhelmed, worried about cost, style, or the hassle of a remodel. Cynthia and her team make it simple: working with existing cabinets, guiding every design choice, and showing clients how a fresh coat of paint or stain and new hardware can completely transform a space. The result is a beautiful, durable finish that elevates the home without the disruption of a full remodel.
Serving the Emerald Coast means balancing style with lifestyle. Full-time residents get tailored, personal designs, while vacation homes focus on light, airy coastal palettes that stand up to sand, humidity, and frequent use. Beyond cabinets, Cynthia values the trust and relationships built along the way—ensuring clients feel proud, confident, and connected to their homes.
"We can dramatically upgrade your cabinets, reviving stained cabinets, giving painted cabinets a fresh new color and feel, or even replacing old doors and drawers,” said Cynthia. Visit nhance.com/emeraldcoast for a consultation.
Before After
Where Luxury Meets Beachfire Magic
MysticFlames30A transforms coastal gatherings into unforgettable luxury experiences through curated beach bonfires and elevated picnics.
Along the sugar-white sands of 30A and the Emerald Coast, MysticFlames30A is redefining how people gather, celebrate, and connect. Founded by owner Anthony Thomas Jette alongside his high-energy partner Jazzmyn Leigh Youngberg, this luxury beach bonfire and picnic service was created with one purpose in mind: to turn meaningful moments into unforgettable memories.
Serving Walton County, 30A, Destin, and Panama City Beach, MysticFlames30A offers elevated, fully curated experiences for parties of all sizes—from intimate date nights to large-scale celebrations of 100 guests or more. Bachelorette parties, weddings, birthdays, family reunions, corporate gatherings, and custom celebrations all receive the same thoughtful attention to detail and personalized care. What truly sets MysticFlames30A apart is its commitment to exceptional customer service. Every event is designed around the client’s vision, allowing guests to relax, be present, and enjoy the moment without stress. From plush seating and
ambient lighting to crackling bonfires and gourmet s’mores, each setup feels intentional, luxurious, and effortlessly inviting. With over 200 five-star reviews and features in more than 150 local businesses and vacation homes, MysticFlames30A has quickly become the premier choice for visitors and locals seeking something beyond the ordinary. Their reputation is built not just on beautiful setups, but on the emotions they create—laughter shared under the stars, champagne glasses clinking at sunset, and stories told by firelight.
At the heart of MysticFlames30A is a simple belief: the best moments in life are meant to be shared. Whether under open skies on the beach or beneath the trees, Anthony and Jazzmyn are passionate about creating spaces where people feel connected, celebrated, and truly present. Because sometimes, a night filled with warmth, laughter, and glowing flames is more than an event—it’s a memory that lasts forever. Visit www.mysticflames30a.comor call (850) 598-0648 to book your unforgettable MysticFlames30A experience.
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“Every
fire we build is meant to spark connection, celebration, and unforgettable shared moments.”
