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The LOVE Issue F E B R UA RY 2 02 4

OWN YOUR SKIN Dr. Elizabeth Owings Discovery Medical Center

REVANESSE / BOTOX / VAMPIRE FACELIFT MICRONEEDLING / OBAGI SKIN CARE ®

WE HAVE MOVED! DrOwingsHealth.com | 938.207.8888 | 415 E Church St NW Ste 1 · Huntsville, AL 35801

DEAR

Valentine,

E XCEPTIONAL A PA R T M E N T L I V I N G IN HUNTSVILLE

18 WATERCRESS GREEN JUST OFF JEFF ROAD AT HIGHWAY 72 W UNIVERSIT Y DRIVE NW 1 OLD FAIRWAY ROAD HUNTSVILLE, AL 35806

WATERCRESSLIVING.COM

V @18WATERCRESSGREEN

WATERCRESSGREENAPTS-LAPTG@M.KNCK .IO (256) 408-9602

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Love Local

February 2024 PUBLISHER

Amy Bailey | amy.bailey@citylifestyle.com

In honor of February and LOVE, a poem. We will call this Alabama Sonnet 47: Shall I compare thee to an Alabama day? Thou art more lovely than blue skies and kaleidoscope clouded sunsets: Rough winds twirl and rain does pour, And fog does blanket and dew does drip off every blade of grass; Sometimes too hot with air so dense, And often those insects bite; And flowers wilt under these Deep South days; By nature and curiosity she draws you in; Her uniqueness and complexity never fades, Nor shall you forget those firefly lit summer walks; And days sitting under the magnolia shade, Where the cotton in the red clay grows; So long as mockingbirds sing and Jackson vine clings, So long lives our sweet home, giving life and stories to thee. Our heart beats loudly for this city and state. To show how special this place is, we scoured for those unique stories that pull at your heart strings. In this issue you will read a Love A Second Time: a story of a couple in their 80s living at Fleming Farms who were so in love they simply had to get married at 82 and 88. The line we love from this feature, "I didn't know it could be like this." A photography centered piece entitled Puppy Love inspired by local artist and photographer Bear Stapely captures not only these special stories of unconditional love, but also how dog owners and their dogs tend to favor. We take you to the new ReTreet glamping destination just 30 minutes outside of Huntsville where you can stay in treehouses, cottages, or canvas tents. And then we take you to the tiny, other worldly Bahamian paradise of Eleuthera. Destinations great for a romantic trip, platonic trip, or self care. Writer Sarah Buechler advises on a ritual of self care and feeling confident in Love Your Skin. Snail on the Wall's Lady Smith gives us the scoop on love stories in Books To Love. And of course, there are Valentine's Day Gift Ideas. Fall in love with this city and discover something new. Long.Live.Print. A M Y B A I L E Y, P U B L I S H E R @HUNTSVILLECITYLIFESTYLE

P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Madeline Sandlin | madeline.sandlin@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Susan Rogers | susan.rogers@citylifestyle.com INTERN

Mia Rogers STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Nadia Kidd C O PY E D I TO R

Mary Nell Cole CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mary Nell Cole, Sarah Buechler C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Bear Stapely, Joe Davis

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Huntsville City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Huntsville area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Huntsville City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Live the life you so richly deserve. Fleming Farms Senior Living offers support across a continuum of care. Live and play at your own pace within our Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care residences. Enjoy a balanced lifestyle with amenities to meet your needs.

Schedule a tour today! Call (256) 692-6435 • FlemingFarms.com 4670 Bellewood Drive SE, Huntsville, AL 35802

inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L

46 18

Featured

28 46 66 10

66 On the Cover

Puppy Love

Photographer Bear Stapely captures love and resemblance between these dog owners and their best friends

Love A Second Time

They said ‘I Do’ this past year, both in their 80s

Treetop Adventures

A glamping resort in Scottsboro offering treehouses, cottages, and tents

Valentine’s Gift Ideas

‘Kelsey and Scarlett’

Photography: Artist and Photographer Bear Stapely @k8photo_

Departments 8

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Pet Friendly LIFE + CULTURE

Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE

Travel Journal TRAVEL

Must See TRAVEL

Skin Care BEAUTY

Locally Sourced ARTS + CULTURE

Events

Trend Setter STYLE + BEAUTY

V @strattonhsv

FEBRUARY 2024

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

1: Carlee Propst at the Wellstone Holiday Soiree 2: Juliet Wells, Melissa Gimenez, Martha Lynn Coon, Amy Bailey, Susan Rogers at the Twickenham Christmas Tour of Homes 3: Bert and Elizabeth Moore at the ServisFirst Bank Holiday Party 4: Kate Mann, Susan Rogers, Sarah Buechler, Amy Bailey at the ServisFirst Bank Holiday Party 5: Bobby Bradley, Dianne Reynolds, Tiavalya Befecadu, Marilyn Lands at the Wellstone Holiday Soiree 6: Amy Bailey, Amanda Howard at The Twickenham Christmas Tour of Homes 7: Andrea Jones, Leah Gilbert, Violet Gilbert at the Wellstone Holiday Soiree

C I T Y SC E N E

STEVE BABIN

12 STEVE BABIN

14 13

8: Amy Bailey and Lindsey Patillo Keane at the RCP Holiday Party 9: Ryan Oliver, Emma Terry, Annin Harper, Ginger and Davien Harper, Clark and Ashleigh Willoughby, Scottie and Kelley Smith at Stars Dancing for HEALS 10: Daiven and Ginger Harper at Stars Dancing for HEALS 11: Natsuki Tani, Amanda Howard, Jen Lockwood at the Amanda Howard Sotheby’s Interntional Realty Holiday Party 12: Ianni Nicolaou, Amanda Howard, Allie Wright at the Amanda Howard Sotheby’s Interntional Realty Holiday Party 13-14: One Table at Big Spring Park

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

city scene CONTINUED

15: Tabby Ragland, Rosemary Latham, Michelle Hunter Huntsville Symphony Silver Tea 16: Melissa Hays, Paula, Tammy Robertson, Ina Wilson Smith at Huntsville Symphony Guild Silver Tea 17: Frank Williams, Mariangely Ponce-Rivera (Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year) Adrian Hargrove, Patrick Wynn, Harold Weatherly 18: Eva Diane Baker, Brandi Doss Russell Huntsville Symphony Guild Silver Tea

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ H U N T S V I L L E C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

Lorem ipsum

Where you can have your cake, and eat it too! 415-E Church St NW Suite 5 256-213-7545 www.masondixonbakery.com IG: @masondixonhsv Tues - Sat 7am - 4pm 14

C I T Y SC E N E

P P U Y P

L OV E PHOTOGRAPHER BEAR STAPELY CAPTURES LOVE AND RESEMBLANCE BETWEEN THESE DOG OWNERS AND THEIR BEST FRIENDS ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEAR STAPELY

P E T F R IE N D LY | L I FE + C U LT U RE

Jordan + Homer Homer became my dog when I was senior in high school, then he lived with me and my two brothers in Tuscaloosa. He’s not the sharpest tool in the shed but what he lacks in smarts he makes up with charisma. Homer doesn’t think he can swim despite his webbed feet. He doesn’t like other dogs but loves people. My mom wanted him to be a therapy dog but I always told her he was my therapy dog and I’ve got enough problems for all of us.

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

Kristen Hepler + Loki I found her almost 6 years ago lying in the middle of Thornton Road on my way to work. I took a picture of her and it was shared over 90 times on Facebook with no one claiming her. I found out that she had been found by three other people and she somehow escaped all three places and ended up in my neighborhood. It was serendipitous. She absolutely loves to travel. We took her fly fishing one weekend and it was her first time seeing a fish. Every time Thad would catch a trout, she would run up to him so that she could inspect each one before he would release it.

P E T F R IE N D LY | L I FE + C U LT U RE

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

Kelsey Zwack + Scarlett Scarlett came into our life in December of 2012. Her father and I had been married for about 8 months and were living in Atlanta. She was born on a grand southern estate outside of the city and was the smallest and most beautiful in her litter. We have often joked that she must have been very disappointed when we brought her home to our small apartment in the city. She was timid at first and so very sweet, she slowly came out of her shell and has been the most wonderful companion. Her whole life she has gone everywhere with us and is magnet for joy. If we are invited somewhere, our friends know the next question “Can Scarlett come?” From walking in downtown Huntsville and being stopped for photos, working as a greeter at local events, prancing the runway at the GHHS Dog Ball, enjoying fine dining with outdoor seating, traveling near and far, she has never met a stranger and is always a lady. Many of my dearest friends I have met through Scarlett. We are very lucky to be her pets.

P E T F R IE N D LY | L I FE + C U LT U RE

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

P E T F R IE N D LY | L I FE + C U LT U RE

LOVE AT FIRST SIP DRINK windmillbev.com 9 Locations | 1 Near You

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Teacher for 25 years

a life-long resident of Huntsville and love this city. I have been a realtor for 23 years. I am very passionate about developing lasting relationships with clients. I truly care about them and their families.

Born and raised Huntsvillian

I strive to make your experience in moving to, within or from Huntsville as quick and stress free as possible. Dedicated to finding you the best home at the best price

Jeanne Allen, Owner and Broker Associate 3508 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville (256) 337-7615 www.findinghuntsvillehomes.com

Building relationships that last

When our community thrives, we all prosper. Prosperity is about so much more than money. It’s about living well in a community that is healthy and stable. At Morgan Stanley, we feel fortunate to live in a place that is supported by so many worthy service organizations. Their good deeds make everyone’s life richer.

Left to right: Alex Pols, Pennie Keene, Mark Mantooth

The Mantooth/Pols/Keene Group at Morgan Stanley Alex Pols Senior Vice President Financial Advisor 256-690-5479 Alex.Pols@morganstanley.com Pennie Keene Senior Vice President Financial Advisor 256-690-5801 Penelope.Keene@morganstanley.com Mark Mantooth Managing Director–Wealth Management Financial Advisor 256-690-5456 Mark.Mantooth@morganstanley.com 305 Church Street Huntsville, AL 35801

SUP031 CRC 6008341 10/23 CS 711289 06/23

L ove A S e c o n d

Time

THEY SAID ‘I DO’ THIS PAST YEAR, BOTH IN THEIR 80S

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOE DAVIS

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

“To me it means Jerry is mine and I can claim him as my man. I just love him and want to do things for him.” — PEGGY SIMPSON

“I didn’t know it could be like this,” Peggy Simpson, 82, says of her new husband, Jerry Guinn , 88. The two went to church together for decades, even living on the same street when their children were growing up. Both had taken care of spouses that passed. After Jerry’s wife died he called Peggy to get a tour of Fleming Farms. He actually moved into Brookdale, but when Fleming Farms’ Valentine’s dance was approaching, Peggy called to ask him if he would like to go. From their they began going to lunch and dinner regularly. “I didn’t go out to get him,” Peggy asserts and smiles. “He just kept coming over and coming over.” “We liked going to get 50 cent hot dogs at the bistro,” Jerry interjects.”We just kept seeing each other.” Peggy remembers, “I said to him one night after we had been seeing each other awhile, I don’t remember my exact words but basically, You need to marry me or leave alone.” After years of living alone and cooking for her children every Sunday, Peggy decided it was time to move into a retirement community. Her son Derek found Fleming Farms. Jerry, a retired UAH professor, chose Brookdale, but then found himself frequenting Fleming Farms to have hot dogs with Peggy. They decided they wanted to get married and were having a problem reserving the church. Whitesburg Baptist wasn’t available until September. So on April 9, 2023, Peggy Simpson and Jerry ___ said I do at her son Derek’s law office downtown with Judge Billy Bell officiating. Now married and living together at Fleming Farms, they go on weekend trips together and find themselves enjoying the small every day

things too. Peggy says, “We watch a lot of television and football games. We love watching movies together.” “I was married to my first husband for 53 years. but there wasn’t much we agreed on, including TV,” she continues, “Jerry and I have a lot of things in common that are just really sweet.” When asked what advice they may have for other older couples Jerry says, “When you’re older you just have to realize that both of you are set in your ways. So you need to be tolerant of each other and understanding.” “It’s been an interesting time but there hasn’t been a bad day,” Peggy turns to Jerry, “I haven’t had a bad day, have you?” Jerry pauses jokingly and then smiles and laughs making Peggy laugh too. “There hasn’t been a bad day and our first argument was right before you got here when we couldn’t remember if our first date was the Valentine’s dance or Top O’ The River in Guntersville.” When Jerry married Peggy he also married into a big family, Peggy says, “All my children and their mates think it’s the most wonderful thing because they haven’t had a daddy or granddaddy in their life for awhile.” When asked what love means at this age, Peggy smiles and without hesitation states, “To me it means Jerry is mine and I can claim him as my man. I just love him and want to do things for him.” “I knew who she was and all about her because we’ve known each other for so long. And things just kind of grew from there,” Jerry reflects on why it was easy to fall in love with Peggy. “After caring for her husband for so long and seeing all the work she did for him, I felt like she needed someone to be there for her and stir her around. I felt like I was just the man to do that.” CONTINUED >

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

L L L L L

LoveLove LoveLove LoveLove LoveLove LoveLove LoveLove LoveLove FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | LIF E + CULTURE

Warren & Simpson, P.C. Skilled. Dedicated. Responsive.

Warren & Simpson, P.C.’s practice is dedicated to those clients involved in accidents that result in serious personal injury or wrongful death. The number of successful client recoveries alone sets their firm apart. Their case selection and ensuring that each client receives their undivided attention truly make them a cut above.

www.warrenandsimpson.com | 256.539.7575 105 North Side Square, Huntsville *No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of the legal services performed by other lawyers. FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

Visit the locally-owned small businesses on Gas Light Alley at Stovehouse. Pimentos, Ine

We can do this, together. WellStone is here for you and the ones you love most.

Learn about WellStone Emergency Services for children. WellStone is building Huntsville’s first mental health emergency care center for kids and teens. Scan the QR code or visit go.wellstone.com/be-the-rock to learn more.

WellStone is your nonprofit community mental healthcare leader, serving individuals and families across North Alabama. We are here for you and those you love.

🌐🌐🌐 www.wellstone.com | 🏢🏢🏢 4040 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville, AL 35802 | ✆ 256.533.1970

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | T R AVEL

ELEUTHER A, BA H A M AS Come On Prett y Mama

“Mom! Mom! It’s a pregnant seahorse!” We had been snorkeling for 20 minutes or more and had spotted a couple of seahorses which ignited every nerve in our brain. To see these elusive, mythical-like creatures was quite possibly the coolest vacation moment we had ever experienced. But then to see a pregnant seahorse, something that is only witnessed days before giving birth, well it was in every sense of the word unbelievable. What this rural, laid back, no frills (the wheels on our rental car were almost all halfway to being flat) Bahamian island

of Eleuthera lacks in luxury, it makes up for every ounce in wonder. When you think of the Bahamas you may think of big resorts and over populated excursions, but there are 700 islands and 2,400 cays that make up the Bahamas, many uninhabited. Among the more secluded, inhibited islands is the rural, but accessible Eleuthera, pronounce uh-loo-thr-uh. Whether it is snorkeling with the highest concentration of seahorses in the world, swimming with sea turtles, or spending the day on pink sand beaches, every day is a bucket list adventure to stimulate the senses in this tiny paradise. CONTINUED >

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY BAILEY

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

Three airports are located on the narrow 110 mile island. Where you are staying on the island will determine where you want to fly into because the island’s settlements are up to 15 miles apart. • North Eleuthera International Airport (ELH) is at the northernmost tip of Eleuthera island and has the most direct flights from the US. It’s the closest airport to Harbour Island and Spanish Wells both of which require a water taxi ride to reach. ELH is the closest airport for the settlements of Current, Upper and Lower Bogue, Whale Point, Gregory Town, Alice Town and Rainbow Bay. • Governor’s Harbour International Airport (GHB) is centrally located near the middle of the island and about eight miles north of Governor’s Harbour, the capital of Eleuthera. GHB is convenient for the settlements of Rainbow Bay, James Cistern, Governor’s Harbour, Palmetto Point, Double Bay, Ten Bay, Savannah Sound and Windermere Island. • Rock Sound International Airport (RSD) is the southernmost airport on the island. Options for direct flights from the US don’t exist, but you can get a flight from Nassau. RSD is the nearest airport to Tarpum Bay, Rock Sound, Green Castle, Waterford, Deep Creek and Cape Eleuthera. One of the biggest reasons people escape to this Bahamian paradise is the over 150 secluded beaches where you rarely find yourself in a crowd of more than six and often times you have the soft sands to yourself. While nearby Harbour Island has become well known for its Pink sandy beaches, the pink sand also spreads along the coast of Eleuthera, blessing it with several blushing beaches, most notably Surfer Beach to the North and Lighthouse Beach at the Southern tip of the island. Here is a list of some of my favorites:

CAPE ELEUTHERA RESORT BEACH

Located on a 4,500 acre private, secluded nature and beach preserve on the tip of southwest Eleuthera, Cape Eleuthera is surrounded by uninhabited wilderness and 18 miles of shoreline with multiple beaches.

This beach is located minutes from North Eleuthera. Wind your way down a sandy grassy path overgrown with sea grapes to find a favorite picnic spot after exploring Preacher’s Cave, one of North Eleuthera’s best-known landmarks. The color of the water from this spot is heavenly.

FRENCH LEAVE BEACH

One of the handfuls of pink sand beaches on Eleuthera, beautiful French Leave Beach is located just outside of Governor’s Harbour. CONTINUED >

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

CAPE ELEUTHERA RESORT BEACH

• Located on a 4,500 acre secluded nature preserve on the southwest Eleuthera.

PREACHER’S BEACH

• Follow the sandy, grassy path to find a picnic spot after exploring Preacher’s Cave.

FRENCH LEAVE BEACH

• A beautiful, pink sand beach located just outside of Governor’s Harbour.

LIGHTHOUSE BEACH

• At the Southern tip of the island, known for its miles of unspoiled soft, pink, sand.

SURFER’S BEACH

• 2 miles from Gregory Town, a hot wave-riding destination.

TEN BAY

• 9 miles south of Governor’s Harbour in Savannah Sound shaded by casuarina trees.

PINEAPPLE FIELDS

• Spectacular views and Tippy’s, a one-of-a-kind beach bar.

PREACHER’S BEACH

BEST ELEUTHERA BEACHES

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

Queen's Bath

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | T R AVEL

LIGHTHOUSE BEACH

This beach is located in South Eleuthera near Cape Eleuthera and is known for its miles of unspoiled pink, soft, sandy beaches, as well as an old lighthouse located on a dramatic limestone promontory overlooking the ocean.

SURFER’S BEACH

This beach is located 2 miles from Gregory Town. The hang ten set also knows that Eleuthera is a hot wave-riding destination, with Surfer’s Beach drawing sun-bleached guys and gals to its island break.

TEN BAY BEACH

This beach is located 9 miles south of Governor’s Harbour in Savannah Sound. It is naturally shaded by large casuarina trees in the morning, but a sun lover’s paradise on a warm Bahamian afternoon.

THE BEACH AT PINEAPPLE FIELDS

Located near Governor’s Harbour the beach at Pineapple Fields offers spectacular views and Tippy’s, a one-of-a-kind restaurant and beach bar that one can sit, have a Kalik or lemonade and take in the awesome view.

One of the most popular adventures is The Queen’s Baths (or the Hot Tubs), located 0.6 miles south of the Glass-window Bridge on the rugged Atlantic side of the island. These natural pools (carved by centuries of waves pounding the rock) are filled with dramatic crashing waves, shells, and small sea life that wash over from the Atlantic Ocean. Once settled, this crystal clear water is warmed by the sun, creating a bath like temperature tidal pool that’s perfect for soaking. The best time to visit the hot tubs is during the low or medium tide, so check the tide schedule each day. When visiting, it is best to wear water shoes or sneakers. Other points of interest include The Glass Window Bridge where you can see where the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean meet; The Blue Hole where locals and tourists jump off a platform into the sapphire blue waters of this North Eleuthera sink hole; Harbour Island the chic pink sand famed island where colorful cottages dot the shore; Sweetings Pond to snorkel with seahorses; and The Ocean Swings accessible by excursion. For a day on the ocean contact Da Salty Pig Adventures and enjoy the ocean swings, swimming with pigs, swimming with sea turtles, snorkeling for giant starfish, fishing and more, dasaltypig.com. CONTINUED >

W H ER E TO E AT • Daddy Joe’s Restaurant and Bar is located in the beautiful, quaint settlement of Gregory Town, Eleuthera. This restaurant is a must. • Sunset Inn Restaurant, located on Queens Highway Governor’s Harbour, overlooks the Exuma Sound. • Arthur’s Bakery on Harbour Island serves breakfast and lunch daily, except Sunday. • Uncle Tommy’s Bakeshop in North Eleuthera is a family-oriented business. This is a grab and go establishment. • Acquapazza on Harbour Island is famous for their seafood, vegetarian pastas, and wines. • Unka Gene’s is as no frills as it gets and most likely there will be a wait, but the food is delicious.

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

WHERE TO STAY

The Cove is a 5-star resort in North Eleuthera, The Cove will blanket you in luxury and attention all while you enjoy secluded beaches, hilltop infinity pool, spa, water activities, seasonal events, and more. The Other Side is the newest resort on the island. This upscale resort is the utmost in glamping offering only seven gorgeous high end tent accommodations, beautifully decorated common areas, and an unbeatable pier jutting right into the calm, crystal clear waters between North Eleuthera and Harbour Island. If you research the area well, you will find a variety of affordable and well-appointed vacation homes on AirBnB.com to choose from.

WHERE TO EAT

Daddy Joe’s Restaurant and Bar is located in the beautiful, quaint settlement of Gregory Town, Eleuthera. This restaurant is designed with everyone in mind especially families, and persons looking to host an event. Enjoy delicious menu options in the cool air-conditioned areas or outdoor on the patio. There are always exciting activities happening at Daddy Joe’s such as live band performances, karaoke, and great DJ music. It is a favorite of Lenny Kravitz while he’s at his home on the island. Sunset Inn Restaurant, located on Queen’s Highway Governor’s Harbour, overlooks the Exuma Sound. Dine indoors or sit outside on the deck as you enjoy the calming effects of the tranquil blue waters. Arthur’s Bakery on Harbour Island serves breakfast and Lunch daily except Sundays and specializes in a variety of breads, danishes, cookies, pastries. Patrons can enjoy free wi fi. Uncle Tommy’s Bakeshop in North Eleuthera is a family-oriented business. This is a grab and go establishment. His breads, and other pastries are made from scratch and baked daily. No bread or pastry is left on the shelves at the end of the day! Your trip is not complete until you have bought the old-fashioned coconut creams, benny cakes, and guava duff, conchy conch fritters, and homemade thin crust pizza. The owner is also instrumental within the community. He teaches young people how to bake bread and other treats and offers after school jobs. Acquapazza on Harbour Island is famous for their seafood, vegetarian pastas, and wines. Unka Gene’s is as no frills as it gets and most likely there will be a wait, but the food is delicious. You just have to really sink into the local culture as chickens and cats circle the patio.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | T R AVEL

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

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256-290-1160 | www.hestermandermatology.com Kathleen Shergy Hesterman, MD, FAAD

V @hesterman.derm | 2313 Whitesburg Dr Huntsville, Al 35801

Dr. Christopher Parker and his team at Whitesburg Pediatric Dentistry work to create a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles! Welcoming children 12 months old through the teen years, and offering care for individuals with special needs.

Dr. Christopher Parker | 256.533.2555 | 2337 Whitesburg Dr, Huntsville

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

TR EETOP adventures

A GLAMPING RESORT IN SCOTTSBORO OFFERING TREEHOUSES, COTTAGES, AND TENTS

ARTICLE BY MARY NELL COLE

Looking for a getaway close to home? One that offers seclusion and nature? Serial Huntsville area entrepreneur Troy Hopkins has done it again. He and wife Patti have ventured into the lodging and hospitality arena with ReTreet, a glamping resort in Scottsboro with treehouses, cottages, and canvas tents.

M UST SE E | TRAVEL

In this fairytale wooded retreat within a 30 minute from Huntsville, guests can enjoy accommodations that provide the comforts of home while nicely blending those comforts with the beauty of nature. A perfect, yet simple getaway with many amenities for relaxation and renewal for couples, solo travelers and groups. Treehouses offer expansive decks where you can enjoy your morning coffee and fresh air. The Treehouses are 300 sqft with a king bed and sofa pull-out couch with a full bathroom, living room, and kitchenette located downstairs. Each treehouse is identical and comes with a complimentary golf cart. Amenities include: 2 streaming televisions, walk-in shower, toiletries, basic cookware and utensils, and a Keurig coffee bar. The Glamping Tents are 420 sqft with a king bed and sofa pull-out couch. The tents are set up in a studio style, each curated to represent a specific theme. The tents have a full bathroom, toiletries, kitchenette, indoor and outdoor dining tables, streaming television, basic cookware and utensils, a private covered porch, and come with a complimentary golf cart. Discover your inner glamper with our Luxury Tiny Cottages! These 280 sqft studios come equipped with a queen bed and love seat sofa, perfect for cuddling up in. Each cottage boasts its own unique theme, making for an envy-worthy Instagram feed.

“A perfect, yet simple getaway with many amenities for relaxation and renewal for couples, solo travelers and groups. ” All cottages have you covered with a full bathroom, toiletries, and a kitchenette for cooking up those delicious treats using our basic cookware and utensils. Relax in peace, unwind after a day of adventure with your own private fire pit and Adirondack chairs. And the cherry on top of it all – a complimentary golf cart cruiser is included. CONTINUED >

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Resort amenities include the guest favorite, the Tree Spa, a unique experience with a cedar soaking tub and a 6 person sauna by Redwood Outdoors. The newest addition to the resort is Alabama’s first GeoDome event space, a very unique one-with-nature venue for weddings, retreats or group gatherings. ReTreet also offers a 9 hole disc golf course, dog park, horseshoe pit, charcoal grills, stocked fire pits, corn hole, primitive walking trails, and a 24/7 general store. Need a quick and easy getaway that will clear your mind from the noise of the world and reset you in nature? A short drive takes you to ReTreet and relaxation. Reserve your luxurious outdoor getaway experience at the ReTreet Glamping Resort today. You’ll be glad you did. Visit https://www.retreet.fun to see all the accommodations and reserve.

M UST SE E | TRAVEL

Serendipity House of Style

APPAREL | GIFTS | INTERIORS 2000 Cecil Ashburn Dr. Suite 109 Huntsville, AL 35802

www.serendipityhsv.com | 256-270-9800

Get Organized WITH LIFE SIMPLIFIED

HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA

200 West Side Square, #101 Huntsville, Al 35801

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L OV E Yo u r SK I N

ARTICLE BY SARAH BUECHLER

Wouldn’t it be nice to see the best of you, the beautiful you, the side of you that emanates a compelling aplomb, which gives the rest of us permission to cultivate that for ourselves. Although this seems intuitive, a lot of us are burned out and suffering from malnourished stores of energy and positivity. With all the inundation of the quick fix era and social media ‘experts’, it’s hard to sift for something with lasting, tangible results for our inner and outer self, and in doing so, replenish the most important mental nutrient that will forever be the categorical key to success: confidence. How the world sees us is a direct reflection of how we see ourselves; both of which feed and are fed by confidence, respectively. If your 2023 was anything like mine, then your appearance may resemble a mix of Ground Hog Day and the last two weeks of Survivor. Although everyone might be cheering you on, it’s time to focus on some self-love which can usher in some new year alacrity. CONTINUED >

S KIN CA R E | BEAUTY

OFFERING OVER 30 different services RANGING FROM micro-needling to hair restoration, YOU CAN FIND A routine THAT’S PERFECT FOR YOUR 2024 ritual. FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

S KIN CA R E | BEAUTY

Let us simply affirm that 2024 is the year of the self care ritual. Not the sporadic, unintentional things we tell ourselves are self care, i.e. shopping, a quick mani. pedi, wine, but true devotion to taking care of ourselves. We use the word ritual with intent because it’s series of actions performed according to a prescribed order and with every performance, enhanced results. Any commitment you make to yourself this year is equally a part of your ritual, but we have some fabulous ideas, starting with booking some time at Encore Aesthetics and with Dr. Elizabeth Owings, MD. We sat down and talked in depth about their services and simple, noninvasive options to create a ritual of self care and confidence. Offering over 30 different services ranging from micro-needling to hair restoration, you can find a routine that’s perfect for your 2024 ritual. What we love about Encore is their HydraFacial. You may have heard about this, but if you haven’t, this is a must try. The process starts with a cleansing and exfoliation of the skin with a proprietary enzyme or chemical peel process on the face, neck and decollate, extraction of debris from pores, and serum infusion. Treatment concludes with a facial massage, leav-on mask, and there is no down time. During the dry winter months, this will help to keep your skin hydrated and glowing.

Encore offers the amazing GLO treatment which we also love. We know spring wedding season is coming up and you need a quick GLO up then this is for you. It’s a mild non-ablative CO2 resurfacing treatment that will leave your skin looking so amazing, we are sure people will be asking you what you are doing differently. They also offer this CO2 resurfacing as a hand treatment as well. CONTINUED >

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Talking with Dr. Owings and getting her insight to basic home skin care ritual, she says, “It’s more than just cleansing and moisturizing. Very young people may be able use bath soap and hand lotion on their faces, but retaining youthful skin involves much more.” Dr Owings recommends using a gentle cleanser intended for the face (body was or bath soap will dry out your skin over time and promote wrinkles). Next use a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells. After rinsing and patting the skin dry, use a toner to restore the skin’s normal PH. This allows the rest of your skin care system to work optimally. Your next step is a good skin serum or a retinol product (night only) to promote faster skin turnover. Lastly, apply a daily cream to reverse sun damage such as Daily Power Defense by Z-O. Top that off with a little sunscreen, if your cream doesn’t already have it, and that is your basic skin care ritual. Dr’s orders! Does spending time and money on yourself seem a little out of character these days? Then you need this now more than ever. Keep in mind one of the greatest gift we can give one another is the very best of ourselves. Manifest that show-stopping confidence and put a fresh face to the world. You deserve it. www.vagaro.com/encoreaesthetics

S KIN CA R E | BEAUTY

PRODUCTS AT YOUR SERVICE At ServisFirst Bank, all our products and services were designed with you in mind. Your personal banker will work with you to find the right, competitive solutions to fit your needs and vision of success. Downtown Banking Center 401 Meridian Street, Suite 100 Huntsville, AL 35801 256.722.7800

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B o o k s To L ove LOVE IS BLOSSOMING IN BOOKS THIS MONTH

ARTICLE BY LADY SMITH

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Love is blossoming in books this month, and not just in romantic comedies. Sure, we recommend a good rom-com to celebrate this season of love, but we also encourage you to explore other kinds of love, from friendship to familial to self-care. Here are a few of The Snail’s favorite selections for February. Find them all at www.snailonthewall.com, and let Huntsville’s local bookstore deliver your reading right to your doorstep. Say You’ll Be Mine, by Naina Kumar, is a heartwarming romantic comedy to curl up with on a chilly day. The plot centers on a faked engagement between Meghna, an engineer turned theatre teacher with a secret crush on her friend Seth, and Karthik, a grumpy engineer tired of his mother’s matchmaking attempts. You’ll be charmed by these two characters who end up finding love without losing themselves, and their meddling but well-meaning families provide many fun moments, too. You’ll hear much about the new novel by Kristin Hannah, known for her bestselling The Nightingale. The Women, releasing February 6, takes a historical look at the Vietnam War through the eyes of a 20-year-old nurse who leaves behind her comfortable, idyllic California home to join the Army Nurse Corps. Once in Vietnam, and then later back at home in the US, Frankie learns to lean on her fellow nurse friends, who understand better than anyone else the courage and sacrifice required to serve their country and so many wounded soldiers. Shakespeare may not have meant family when he penned the line “The course of true love never did

run smooth,” but it certainly applies. Laurie Frankel’s humor-filled novel Family Family features a movie star who is an adoptive mom to twin 10-year-olds. When India Allwood’s new movie about adoption doesn’t mirror her real-life experience, she decides to tell the truth to a popular magazine, which sets off a media storm. This is a warm, page-turning novel with witty characters and surprise cliffhangers that Shakespeare would applaud. Maybe your focus this February should be on showing a little more love to yourself. The Life Brief: A Playbook for No-Regrets Living, by Bonnie Wan, is for those ready to chart a new path, whether in your career, relationships, or personal life. You’ll start by figuring out your values and beliefs, then determine what you really want, and finally start taking actual steps toward achieving it. This is the guidebook you need to jumpstart 2024 — and the rest of your life. If, like so many readers, you find true love in books, then add this one to your library: Why We Read: On Bookworms, Libraries, and Just One More Page before Lights Out, by Shannon Reed, a longtime teacher and contributor to the New Yorker. This hilarious collection of essays isn’t for snobby bibliophiles, but rather for anyone and everyone who has found pleasure in a book, whether it’s Jane Eyre, Pet Sematary, or Gone Girl. As the author looks back at formative books of her own childhood, you’ll find yourself reliving your own reading life and appreciating all the ways literature has comforted, encouraged, and transformed you.

“You’ll be charmed by these two characters who end up finding love without losing themselves, and their meddling but well-meaning families provide many fun moments, too.”

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TIME TO MOVE OR IMPROVE? Call Sarah Lauren Kattos to set up a complimentary Love It or List It consultation. (256) 348-2311 · vvwrealtor.com

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FEBRUARY 2024

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

FEBR UARY 3 R D

Black Jacket Symphony Presents Journey's Escape Mark C. Smith Concert Hall | 5:00 PM Black Jacket Symphony recreates Journey's iconic album escape live in its entirety, note for note, sound for sound. Tickets available at the VBC box office.

FEBR UARY 3 R D

Dog Ball VBC Saturn Ballroom | 5:45pm In its 35th year, The Dog Ball is delighted to honor our four-legged friends as we ‘Party with the Pack.’ Enjoy dinner, live and silent auctions, and the opportunity to meet our VIDS aka Very Important Dogs. Tickets and sponsorships available at thedogball.org. Cocktail attire.

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FEBR UARY 16TH-18TH

To Kill A Mockingbird Mark C. Smith Concert Hall One of Broadway's most loved plays comes to Huntsville, Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird by Aaron Sorkin. Tickets available at the Von Braun Center or online at ticketmaster.com. 7pm and 2pm

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5 Valentine’s 2

GIFT Id ea s

ITEM NUMBER 1: Hand and heart necklace from Loring and Co, @loringandco ITEM NUMBER 2: Tom Ford Jasmine Scent from Saks Fifth Avenue, @saks ITEM NUMBER 3: Fuzzy slippers from Personal Couture, @personalcouturehuntsville

4 5

T R E N D SE T T E R | STYL E + BE AU T Y

ITEM NUMBER 4: Pink and red glassware from Topiary Tree, @thetopiarytree ITEM NUMBER 5: Treehouse stay at Glamping resort ReTreet, @retreetresort

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5 Star Customer Service (Over 600 Google 5 Star Reviews)

Leader In Orthodontic Technology

Newest Scanning Techniques One Of The First Offices In Alabama To Use A Procedure Called “Dibs” (Digital Indirect Bonding System) Which Allows Our Team To Bond Braces In Much Less Time For A Higher Level Of Comfort

LIMBAUGHORTHO.COM 256.882.6000 600 Airport Rd SW, Huntsville, Alabama 35802

A Community Nestled in Nature

Imagine living in a community where the outdoors are at your doorstep. Where the sounds of nature surround you as you walk over 10 miles of walking & biking trails. Where you feel tucked away, yet can be at your favorite local restaurants and shops in mere minutes. All of this is possible in Hays Farm. Build your dream home in one of two neighborhoods offering various lot sizes and price points. Contact us today to secure your home and rediscover the nature around you.

HAYSFARM.com