Destin, FL May 2026

WITH LISA O’NEILL, moms experience

healthcare that

truly

supports them

LIFE + CULTURE HEALTHCARE THAT UNDERSTANDS MOTHERHOOD

Bold Women Entrepreneurs Inspiring Change, Connection, and Community Impact Together

Dear Readers,

This month, I’m excited to celebrate bold women who are shaping business, community, and the way we lead. Lisa O’Neill, APRN-C, is transforming maternal healthcare through deeper connection, proactive care, and a modern model designed to truly support today’s mothers. Her work reminds us that compassion and innovation go hand in hand.

Since launching the Ladies Leadership Luncheon, I’ve been honored to watch this community grow into a space where women lift each other up in business and in life. Each gathering sparks authentic conversations, meaningful connections, and new opportunities. On May 29, we’ll celebrate our one-year anniversary at Nonna’s Restaurant, honoring my birthday while raising funds for The Freedom Collective. This incredible organization empowers women and families, and I’m proud that together, we can support their mission. VIP guests can take the celebration to the next level with a special anniversary staycation at The Alice, making this milestone even more memorable.

I also want to shine a spotlight on Destin-based singer-songwriter Sarah Again, whose music blends motherhood, faith, and life’s quiet questions into songs that linger. Her tracks, “Hold On, Sienna” and “God and the Honeybees,” capture authenticity, reflection, and connection—the same values that inspire everything we do.

This issue also celebrates women creating impact across industries: Christine Fox, who fuses her many passions into a life that is both inspired and peaceful; Paulina, a dynamic advocate empowering women to step into their full potential; Melissa and Sara of Salt Water Snow Design Studio, alongside Lindsay Roberts, bringing creativity and vision to life; Sheryl Siler, founder of Everlasting Joy Destinations; Aurora Kattine of Pampered by Aurora; and dedicated professionals like Osprey Title, LLC, supporting buyers with expertise and care.

I’m grateful for this community of bold women who inspire, lead, and transform. Together, we are creating meaningful impact—one connection at a time.

With gratitude, Women Entrepreneurs Building Legacy, Impact, and Influence.

CARMEN FOSTER, PUBLISHER @DESTINCITYLIFESTYLE

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Carmen Foster | carmen.foster@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Josh Foster | josh.foster@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT DIRECTOR

Michele Pavlich | Covenantcookiecreations@gmail.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Maria Serondo | destincitylifestyle@gmail.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Emerald Blue Photography LLC er.photography20@gmail.com

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

inside the issue

2026

Lisa O’Neill Redefines Care for Moms

Founder Lisa O’Neill APRN-C transforms healthcare through proactive care,and modern model for mothers

Empowering Women Together

A Kentucky Derby–inspired luncheon celebrates women, connection, and community while honoring a milestone together

A Voice of Reflection Rising in Destin

Singer-songwriter blending motherhood, faith,and heartfelt reflection in Destin.

Women Entrepreneurs Building

Legacy, Impact,and

Influence

Paulina Aguilar empowers women to rise with confidence, blending transformation, strategy, and purpose-driven success.

Departments Model coverLisa O’Neill launches a Primary Care Designed for Moms,  The Mom NP

up by Pampered by Aurora and hair by Tatina Tsoi

Ernalyn Ruda with Photographer of Emerald Blue Photography LLC

city scene

Krueger,Fosdyck,Brown,McCall&Associatesunitesateamofseasoned financialprofessionalsdedicatedtodeliveringtailoredwealthmanagementand planningsolutionstofamilies,businessowners,andinstitutions.

$1.3+BILLIONINASSETSUNDERMANAGEMENT

Awards&Recognition

NamedtoTheForbes“Best-in-StateWealthAdvisors”listin2022,2023,2024,2025

NamedtoTheForbes“Best-in-StateWealthManagementTeams”listin2022,2023, 2024,and2025asamemberofKrueger,Fosdyck&Associates.

Top Wealth Advisors Best-in-State (2025, 2024, 2023). FLORIDA DATA PROVIDED BY SHOOK RESEARCH(®), LLC. 2025 DATAAS OF 6/30/2024. 2024 DATAAS OF 6/30/23. DATAAS OF 6/30/22. 2022 DATAAS OF 6/30/2021. SOURCE: FORBES.COM (APRIL 2022-2025).

Founder Lisa O’Neill,APRN-C is transforming maternal healthcare through deeper connection, proactive care, and a modern model designed to truly support today’s mothers

Lisa O’Neill Redefines Care for Moms

Founder Lisa O’Neill, APRN-C is transforming maternal healthcare through deeper connection, proactive care, and a modern model designed to truly support today’s mothers.

For many women, healthcare can feel rushed, fragmented, and impersonal— especially during the most pivotal seasons of life. Pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and hormonal transitions are deeply personal experiences, yet too often they’re met with short appointments and surface-level answers.

For Lisa O’Neill, founder of The Mom NP, that reality was impossible to ignore. Her journey into nursing was shaped by what she witnessed early on—how gaps in access and support could impact not just a woman’s health, but every part of her life.

“I didn’t just want to work in healthcare—I wanted to change the experience for women who often feel overlooked or dismissed,” Lisa shares.

As she advanced in her career, Lisa found herself drawn to women’s and maternal health, recognizing just how critical these seasons are. Yet time and time again, she saw patients navigating them within a system that felt reactive instead of supportive.

“I was seeing women fall through the cracks—long wait times, short visits, and very little continuity. They deserved more than that,” she explains.

That realization led to the creation of The Mom NP, a practice designed to provide a more personal and proactive approach to care. By embracing a Direct Primary Care model, Lisa removed many of the traditional barriers—offering longer visits, direct access, and ongoing support without the constraints of insurance-driven care.

At its core, The Mom NP is about creating a different kind of experience—one where patients feel heard, supported, and truly cared for.

“I wanted to build something that felt like a true village of support for women,” Lisa says.

Building The Mom NP while balancing life as both a healthcare provider and a mother came with its share of challenges. Like many women, Lisa found herself navigating the demands of business ownership while striving to remain fully present for her family.

“There were seasons where everything felt like it was competing for my attention at the same time,” she admits.

Starting a practice from the ground up required her to take on multiple roles—from clinician to business owner—while also managing the uncertainty that comes with building something new. But through it all, her purpose remained clear.

“I knew I was creating something that would not only support my own family, but also change the experience for other women,” Lisa says.

One of the biggest shifts came when she realized she couldn’t do it all alone. Learning to build a strong support system and delegate responsibilities became essential to sustaining both her business and her personal life.

That same philosophy of support is what defines The Mom NP today. Unlike traditional healthcare models that prioritize volume, Lisa has built her practice around connection and continuity.

“Women have adapted to rushed, fragmented care—but that doesn’t mean it should be the standard,” she explains.

At The Mom NP, care is intentionally different. It’s proactive, comprehensive, and centered around the full picture of a woman’s health—from hormones and mental wellness to postpartum recovery and lifestyle.

“I don’t treat these as separate issues. It’s all connected, and it should be treated that way,” Lisa says.

This approach has created a space where women feel truly supported—something many didn’t realize was missing until they experienced it. For Lisa, success is no longer defined by traditional metrics, but by impact.

“Success to me is when a patient feels heard, when she gains confidence in her health, and when care finally feels aligned with her real life,” she shares.

Ready to experience healthcare that finally puts you first? Visit The Mom NP in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, and discover a more personal, proactive approach to your care. Book Now: www.NPforMoms.com

Call or text: 850.990.0636

Follow us on Fb or IG: @themomnp

“I built The Mom NP to create a space where women feel seen, supported, and cared for— because when you support a mom, you support everything around her.”

EMPOWERING WOMEN TOGETHER

A Kentucky Derby–inspired luncheon celebrates women, connection, and community while honoring a milestone together

Earlier this year, the March luncheon embraced the spirit of the Kentucky Derby at the stunning South Bay Stables. Co-hosted by owners Terri and David Parker, the picturesque horse farm provided a beautiful backdrop for an elegant and joy-filled gathering. Guests enjoyed exquisite catering by Donna Bella Catering, stunning florals from Flora Design Services, and decadent treats from Covenant

Cookies Creation. With support from Art Pro Video, Better Together Beverage, and co-sponsor Christine Fox, the event highlighted the joy of women coming together. Since its launch, the Ladies Leadership Luncheon has created a welcoming space where women connect, collaborate, and uplift one another. Now, the community gathers May 29 to celebrate one year, give back, and continue growing together.

ARTICLE BY MARIA SERONDO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADINA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Ladies Leadership Luncheon

Since its launch, the Ladies Leadership Luncheon, founded by Carmen Foster, has grown into a vibrant community where women support one another in business and life. Each gathering brings together entrepreneurs, professionals, and creatives who value authentic connection and meaningful conversations. On May 29, we proudly celebrate our one-year anniversary at Nonna’s Restaurant, while also giving back in support of The Freedom Collective. This milestone event also honors Carmen’s birthday, making the celebration even more meaningful. Thank you to our sponsors and partners for their continued support in bringing these experiences to life. VIP guests are invited to elevate the celebration with a special anniversary staycation at The Alice. Join us as we celebrate, connect, and continue building something truly meaningful together.

SARAH AGAIN: A VOICE OF REFLECTION Rising In Destin

SINGER-SONGWRITER BLENDING MOTHERHOOD, FAITH, AND HEARTFELT REFLECTION IN DESTIN.

ARTICLE BY DIMONTE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMERALD BLUE PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

In Destin, where the Gulf breeze carries whispers of calm, singer-songwriter Sarah Again is quietly making waves. Her music isn’t polished for perfection—it’s intimate, reflective, and deeply relatable, like a late-night conversation where honesty comes naturally. With recent tracks “Hold On, Sienna” and “God and the Honeybees,” Sarah blends motherhood, faith, and life’s quiet questions into melodies that linger.

“Hold On, Sienna” is her most personal song yet. Written for her daughter, it captures the truth every parent knows but rarely voices: while guiding our children, we’re still learning ourselves. The lyrics—“Hold on, Sienna, give me a minute to get it together”—celebrate patience, presence, and the shared journey of parenthood, turning everyday moments into universal emotion.

Her other standout, “God and the Honeybees,” explores spirituality through nature, inviting listeners to embrace curiosity, freedom, and trust in life’s unfolding. Evoking fields of wildflowers and the rhythms of honeybees, the song reflects her belief that faith is discovered through experience, not instruction.

A Destin-based artist, Sarah crafts songs that encourage reflection and connection. She brings authenticity to her local scene, offering music that fosters empathy and pauses for thought. Follow her latest releases, behind-thescenes moments, and reflections on motherhood and faith on Instagram: @sarahagainradio.

Women Entrepreneurs Building Legacy, Impact,and Influence

Entrepreneur Michele Pavlich balances Covenant Cookie Creations, community leadership, and nonprofit fundraising while uplifting women through service, faith, and creativity.

ARTICLE BY CARA VOSS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

MICHELE PAVLICH

When Michele Pavlich celebrated her 40th wedding anniversary with her husband Bryan, the moment sparked more than reflection—it inspired a new entrepreneurial journey. In 2024, the couple launched Covenant Cookie Creations LLC, a design-your-own cookie company built on creativity, faith and connection.

While Bryan brings the discipline of his 25-year career in the United States Air Force, Michele leads the creative vision and heart of the brand. Each handcrafted shortbread-style sugar cookie is made with high-quality ingredients, topped with icing and custom-decorated to match a client’s design—from business logos and photos to wedding themes and holiday greetings.

Beyond the bakery, Michele is deeply involved in the community. She serves on the Ladies Leadership Luncheon team and is the Director of Marketing Support for Destin City Lifestyle  Magazine, where she helps promote local businesses and meaningful stories. She also uses her business as a platform to support nonprofit organizations, helping raise funds and awareness for causes that strengthen the community.

Balancing entrepreneurship, leadership and family life, Michele represents the spirit of women supporting women—proving that passion, purpose and faith can create lasting impact.

Christine Fox fuses her passions into a life that’s both inspired and peaceful. Pilates instructor. Flight attendant. Vet technician. Real estate professional. Visual artist. It’s hard to imagine a hat she hasn’t worn—but it’s her love of art that now takes center stage.

“I fell in love with Destin’s small-town charm, where life feels personal and genuine,” says the Ohio transplant, who lived in Miami before relocating a decade ago. “There is calm, welcoming energy here that instantly makes you feel at home.”

Feeling at home is something Christine is passionate about for her own family and others. After years traveling the world as a flight attendant, she realized how deeply home matters—the comfort, peace, and sense of belonging it can bring. Fifteen years ago, she transitioned into real estate with LPT Realty, combining her creative eye for space with her desire to help others find the perfect home.

Health and wellness are also central to her life. Christine has been a certified Pilates instructor for decades, teaching from her private studio, and she continues to use her vet technician skills volunteering with Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge and local rescues.

“

“Each chapter of my life has taught me to connect deeply, stay resilient, and create with purpose. Whether it’s guiding someone to their dream home, teaching Pilates, volunteering with animals, or crafting a resin masterpiece, I want to inspire others to find beauty in every moment.”

Art, however, has become her newest and most personal pursuit. Through Resin Fox, she transforms wood panels into layered, luminous works using epoxy resin, fire glass, acrylic gemstones, and natural materials inspired by Destin’s white sand beaches and emerald waters. A bachelor’s degree in art from Ursuline College laid the foundation, but her current creations are her most ambitious yet. Her pieces are available at christinefoxresinart.com and on Instagram @resin_fox3, with commissions accepted.

Looking back, Christine sees each chapter as a lesson in connection, resilience, and purpose. Her goal is simple but meaningful: to live with intention, create beauty, and inspire others—whether through a home, a painting, a Pilates session, or a quiet Gulf sunset.

CHRISTINE FOX

PAULINA AGUILAR

Paulina is a dynamic advocate for women ready to step out of the background and into their power. Born in Ecuador and shaped by life in the United States, she embodies reinvention as a conscious choice, not a circumstance. Her philosophy is clear: no past, fear, or limitation can define a woman determined to rise.

As an author, speaker, and business trainer, Paulina blends personal transformation with strategic expertise. She partners with companies to drive revenue and elevate performance while guiding women to cultivate confidence, independence, and lasting success in their own lives.

Her book, Two Steps Forward and Never Going Back , is both a memoir and a practical guide. Through candid storytelling and actionable tools, Paulina invites women to shed old patterns and step boldly into a life of clarity, confidence, and ownership. Her message is empowering and straightforward: you choose your path, you shape your future, and once you move forward, you don’t look back.

Paulina’s voice resonates across cultures with women who know they are meant for more. Through her work, she does more than share her story—she equips women to claim their space, stand taller, and walk forward with purpose, courage, and unwavering resolve.

The book is currently sold on AMAZON.COM

Melissa and Sara, the creative duo behind Salt Water Snow Design Studio, have been designing together for over 12 years. Their journey began in Atlanta at Restoration Hardware, where they discovered that their strengths perfectly complement each other. Beyond their design talents, they share a deep passion for building lasting relationships with clients—something they believe is at the heart of every successful project.

For Melissa and Sara, great design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces where people can truly live, laugh, and make memories. By taking the time to understand each client’s lifestyle, they curate environments that feel personal, welcoming, and timeless—spaces you’ll never want to leave. Their approach combines functionality, beauty, and comfort, ensuring every detail reflects the personalities and needs of those who inhabit it.

Now based in Florida’s scenic Panhandle, Melissa and Sara live just a few doors down from each other, a setup that nurtures both their friendship and their creative process. They draw inspiration from their surroundings, from travel adventures to quiet moments at home with family and their furry companions. Whether sampling new wines or exploring coastal landscapes, they believe the best ideas often come from life’s simplest pleasures. Their bond is a true gift, and their shared passion for design drives every project they undertake. With a firm belief that timing is everything, they are ready to bring your vision to life, transforming your home into a space that feels entirely yours. Melissa and Sara can’t wait to collaborate with you, blending friendship, creativity, and expertise to craft environments that are as inviting as they are unforgettable.

“

“We believe great design is about creating spaces where you can truly live and make memories. By understanding each client’s lifestyle, we craft environments that feel personal and inviting—spaces you won’t want to leave. Every detail reflects who you are and how you want to live.”

Schedule a FREE consultation with Sara Lewis at 770335-6870 or Melissa Kufahl at 470-829-7180, or email at saltwatersnowds@gmail.com

SARA & MELISSA

LINDSAY ROBERTS

On Florida’s Emerald Coast, smooth real estate closings don’t happen by accident—they happen with Lindsay Roberts. As owner and licensed title agent of Osprey Title, LLC, she has spent over 20 years helping buyers, sellers, and agents navigate the complexities of closing with confidence— and a personal touch.

For Lindsay, title work isn’t just paperwork; it’s about protecting investments and guiding families into their next chapter. At Osprey Title, she ensures every closing is professional, seamless, and stress-free, keeping clients informed, answering questions, and handling every detail with care.

Her meticulous approach extends beyond the office. Lindsay collaborates closely with agents, lenders, and builders across the Panhandle and actively participates in local networking organizations, believing strong relationships are the key to smooth transactions.

Outside work, Lindsay and her husband, Jeff, cherish life on the Emerald Coast with their children. Family, community, and connection aren’t just priorities—they’re her driving force.

With Osprey Title, Lindsay combines experience, integrity, and genuine passion, making every closing more than a transaction—it’s a memorable step toward homeownership. When she’s on your team, moving into your dream home feels effortless.

Ospray Title is located in Destin on 36468 Emerald Coast Pkwy Ste. 2202, tel:850-788-8481 .

SHERYL SILER & AURORA KATTINE

Sheryl Siler, founder of Everlasting Joy Destinations, designs thoughtfully curated travel experiences that inspire joy, connection, and renewal. With a deep belief in the restorative power of stepping away from daily routines, she invites women, couples, and groups to pause, reset, and return home refreshed. Her Radiant & Renewed women’s journeys reflect her vision that travel can do more than provide an escape—it can renew perspective, strengthen friendships, and cultivate lasting memories. Sheryl’s approach centers on creating meaningful experiences that prioritize connection, rest, and intentional joy.

Aurora Kattine, founder of Pampered by Aurora, offers a luxury beauty experience dedicated to enhancing natural beauty through personalized care. As a licensed esthetician, she provides mobile spray tans, signature facials, and destination hair and makeup services, helping clients feel confident and radiant. Serving the Emerald Coast and beyond, Aurora brings calm, detail-driven artistry to brides and clients alike, ensuring every experience leaves clients feeling pampered from start to finish.

Together, Sheryl and Aurora represent two generations of women entrepreneurs—each building businesses that empower women to feel cared for, confident, and renewed. Both, are also members of Ladies Leadership Luncheon org. and sponsor for the mini travel suitcase for July 25th Staycation at the Alice in Destin. Bound by family and a shared purpose, they support one another while growing their respective ventures, bringing their unique gifts to the people they serve, contact@everlastingjoydestinations. com or 850-844-1001 to book your dream vacation.

ADINA PRESTON

Adina Preston combines artistry, authenticity, and strategy to create photography and branding that truly shines.

An award-winning photographer and masterful storyteller with over 16 years of experience, Adina blends fine art with a distinctive editorial style to capture compelling, authentic stories.

Specializing in wedding photography along Florida’s stunning Emerald Coast, she proudly serves clients from 30A and Rosemary Beach to Panama City Beach, Destin, Pensacola and beyond. Passionate about documenting love stories, she creates timeless emotional photography that preserves the magic, connection, and joy of couples’ most meaningful moments.

Her versatility extends to business portraits, headshots, lifestyle, fitness, event and commercial photography. Branding photography is a true passion for Adina, helping entrepreneurs and businesses elevate their brands through high-quality, compelling images. Each session is thoughtfully crafted to blend vision, style and authenticity, bringing clients’ personal and professional stories to life.

Alongside ADINA Photography, she is also the founder of BLOOM Marketing Studio, she seamlessly combines photography, graphic design, and strategic branding to offer brand development, website creation and digital marketing with creativity, clarity, and confidence. Adina creates seamless, stress-free experiences that leave every client feeling seen, confident and ready to let their story bloom.

You can check out her work at www.photographybyadina.com and IG  @adinapreston

LESLEY BROWN

Lesley Brown made Destin her home in 1989 at age 24, arriving with no set career path but a big heart for people and community. She quickly fell in love with the area, joining the Destin Women’s Club and immersing herself in local life.

Her banking career began at Destin Bank in 1995, where she became known for her expertise, genuine customer service, and ability to connect with anyone. “I may have the gift of gab, but I really love to learn about people – they fascinate me!” she says. After an eight-year break to work in the airline industry and travel the world, Lesley returned to banking and now serves on the Business Development team at First Security Bank.

Beyond her career, Lesley is deeply involved in the community. She is a Destin Chamber Ambassador, a member of the Destin Rotary Club, volunteers with several nonprofits, and serves on the board of Fore Her, a local breast cancer organization. As a fiveyear breast cancer survivor, giving back has become a personal mission.

Lesley and her husband, Steve, have raised two sons: Jordan, serving in the U.S. Air Force, and Davis, soon to graduate from Stetson University with a degree in Music Composition. Warm, welcoming, and endlessly people-oriented, Lesley brings heart, enthusiasm, and community spirit wherever she goes.

Your Village of Support

Primary Care and Hormone Therapy for Women in Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Specializing in woman-centered care, we offer comprehensive telehealth, or in-person services designed to meet the unique needs of busy moms. From the convenience of your home, connect with experienced talk therapists for emotional support, access personalized plans for weight loss and hormone management, and receive expert guidance to help you prioritize your health.

WWW.NPFORMOMS.COM

850-990-0636 | Lisa@NPforMoms.com | VB@themomnp 327 S Hwy 393, Ste 202, Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an intro. Markets

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ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

Invest smart. Live coastal. Build

“In real estate, the right guidance isn’t optional - it’s everything.”

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make—and having the right guidance can make all the difference. Whether you're a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or preparing to sell, understanding the market is key.

Quick Real Estate Tips:

• Price strategically—homes priced right attract stronger offers.

• Pay attention to local trends—inventory, timing, and demand matter.

• Prepare your home to show well—first impressions drive value.

• Know your numbers—taxes, insurance, and long-term equity all play a role. Investments:

• Look for properties in growing areas where demand is increasing.

• Focus on cash flow and long-term appreciation, not just purchase price.

The Emerald Coast market is unique, from waterfront opportunities to investment properties and homes for military families relocating to the area. Having experienced professionals guiding you through negotiations, pricing, and market strategy helps protect your investment and maximize results.

Over 500 Businesses on the Gulf Coast