Madison, AL February 2026

REFINED LIVING BEGINS HERE

Built by Bryan Homes in the Prestigious Village at Oakland Springs

experience timeless charm and modern convenience at the village at oakland springs, a walkable, traditional neighborhood in the heart of madison, alabama. with treelined streets, southern architecture, and vibrant local dining and shopping, this community blends classic design with everyday ease. among its carefully selected builders, built by bryan stands out for their sophisticated craftsmanship and attention to detail bringing elevated, luxury living to this thoughtfully planned neighborhood.

FEELS LIKE HOME!

COME IN TODAY FOR INCENTIVES TO RENT

Love is a verb

We often think of love in terms of romance - a breathless kiss, an intense gaze, a special gift. And even though those things can certainly make our heart flutter, love is so much more. It is how we live, how we treat others, how we lift each other up. Each day we get to choose what we put out into the world. Will we choose complaining, will we choose gossip, will we choose dismissiveness, will we choose indifference, will we choose judgement, will we choose those 'low hanging' negative actions that do not put light into the world or will we choose the light within each of us to help lift up our friends, our family, our coworkers, strangers?

We place God in church pews, in the bible, in service to others, but can our minds grasp that God is all around us and in us. We have the power to love and see love in others. We all have hard days and hard times when a call or a hug from the right person can remind us that we do have great value and that life is really worth living. Words are love, presence is love, encouragement is love. We all stress and strain and struggle. And in those moments when we feel lost and down, it is love that can see us through. It is love that gives light to all the goodness that shines in each of us. The best part is - it is free. It is a choice to show love over the negative bias we are so prone to as humans. Don't you want to be that person? That person who lifts someone up? That person who helps someone see the greatness in themselves. And the really magical thing about it - when we become that person that shows love and sees it in others, it multiplies.

Get ready for an issue filled with love - love in presence, love of community, love letters and more. May we choose to love beautifully.

Long. Live. Print.

AMY BAILEY, PUBLISHER

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Amy Bailey | amy.bailey@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Casey Creque | casey.creque@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Susan Rogers | susan.rogers@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Tamika Watford

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

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

Proverbs 3:5-6

PRIMARY CARE THAT MAKES YOU PRIMARY

Empowering individuals to take control of their health with tools tailored to their unique needs and goals. From advanced genomics to innovative longevity therapies, an approach rooted in science and compassion.

Dr. Lemley, whose experience spans decades, invites Huntsville to discover a practice that goes beyond conventional care—a place where wellness is nurtured, potential is unlocked, and care of the person is primary.

city scene

Some of Huntsville's finest showcase style and sophistication across the city

LIKE FINE WINE

“EVEN THOUGH STYLES change AND evolve , YOUR OWN STYLE WILL set you apart FROM OTHERS.”

– LINDA

POPPY AND PARLIAMENT

Linda: Gold and black brocade coat dress @ shopsilhouette; Valentina Pearl Drop Earrings $66.00  @serendipityhouseofstyle; French Kande Angélique Triple Strand Pearls Silver Necklace Gold

$392.00 @serendipityhouseofstyle

Pat: Peter Cohen Paris Plisse Parachute Pant $792 @shopcarriagehouse; Peter Cohen Paris Plisse Wed Top -Zinnia $648 @shopcarriagehouse; 18kt Yellow Gold and Pearl Necklace with yellow, chocolate and traditional diamonds @emmettblevinsjewelry; Pearl earrings encircled by threads of 18kt gold and yellow and white diamonds @ emmettblevinsjewelry; 18kt Yellow gold two finger ring with yellow and white diamonds @emmettblevinsjewelry

Sonja: Sadie Sequin Mini Dress

$218.00 @hemlinehuntsville; Susan Shaw La Mer Chain Bracelet $74.00  @serendipityhouseofstyle

STAR MARKET

Sonja: Cariss Pink Mini Dress $169.00 @hemlinehuntsville; Alexander McQueen pink bag Queen Bee of Beverly Hills  @luxuryfinders; 18 kt gold ring pink kunzite, blue zircon, diamond ring $6300 @emmettblevinsjewelry Linda: Joseph Ribkoff Leatherette Pull-On Pencil Skirt $195 @serendipityhouseofstyle; Joseph Ribkoff Puff Sleeve Satin Top $235 @serendipityhouseofstyle; Leopard Coat @shopsilhouette; French Kande Angélique Triple Strand Pearls Silver Necklace Gold $392.00 @serendipityhouseofstyle

POPPY AND PARLIAMENT

Pat: Peter Cohen Paris Plisse

Parachute Pant $792 @shopcarriagehouse; Peter Cohen Paris Plisse Wed Top $648  @shopcarriagehouse; 18kt Yellow Gold and Pearl Necklace with yellow, chocolate and traditional diamonds @emmettblevinsjewelry; Pearl earrings encircled by threads of 18kt gold and yellow and white diamonds @emmettblevinsjewelry; 18kt Yellow gold two finger ring with yellow and white diamonds @emmettblevinsjewelry; Queen Bee of Beverly Hills burgundy fur and bag @luxuryfinders

“TO FULLY EMBRACE THE FACT THAT I AM particular NOT PATTERNED. THERE IS ONLY ONE ME AND GOD HAS A unique plan FOR MY LIFE.”

– PAT

THE JEFFERSON HOTEL

Pat: Peter Cohen Blouse Wrap Dress

$1824  @shopcarriagehouse ; Margaret Ellis Bronze Wide Bangle Bracelet $575

earrings  @shopcarriagehouse ; Queen Bee of Beverly Hills Gucci Lion Ring @luxuryfinders

Linda: Navy Blazer Dress

@shopsilhouette; Luxe Bangle $48

@serendipityhouseofstyle; Susan Shaw

Gold Double Loop Chain Bracelet $89@ serendipityhouseofstyle; French Kande

Lea Necklace: Lourdes Crystal G $462  @serendipityhouseofstyle

The story of a Monark Grove couple's relationship through love letters

LOVE LETTERS

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE

Not so long ago, before the era of texts and FaceTimes, couples stitched distance together with thoughtfully written letters that carried stories, secrets, and most importantly, love. These letters allowed couples the time and space to grow intentionally together, even though they were miles, or sometimes oceans apart. This was the case for Monark Grove Retirement Community couple Ed and JJ, who after nearly sixty years of marriage still credit their relationship to a foundation of love and selflessness, and a proposal written in a love letter that sealed their fate forever.

It was 1964 and Ed had been drafted and stationed in Korea. A lover of the arts and literature, he found himself at an art exhibit at city hall admiring the work of Joung Ja Choi. That serendipitous evening turned into nearly a year of adventure and love as JJ showed him the world through her eyes. They went boating and fishing and hiking, and he fell in love with her spirit as she was exceptionally selfless and attentive to his needs, unlike anyone he had ever met.

Ed’s tour came to an end and while he had to say goodbye to JJ, he reminisced on his time in Korea with her and they kept in touch through letters.  “I couldn’t stop thinking about her, no other girl was like her,” recalls Ed. So in 1965 he wrote in a letter to ask her to marry him.

My dearest love, Thursday July 7, 1965

I am now in America and I am now a civilian,  but although I am home I am very sad and my heart is very heavy since I had to leave you at the train station. I love you my darling and I miss you very much and I am dreaming only of the day when I can  bring you to me, make you my wife, and to make together a home for both of us.

I don’t know when I will be able to bring you to me, my darling, but that is the one thing I want more than anything else in the world. I love you my sweet. I love you, I adore you, you are wanted. The only thing I think about is you my darling and the wonderful nine months we had together and the lifetime we will have together in America. Darling I love you, please always love me and wait for me. I very much love you and I always will.

I will write again tomorrow. With all my love, Edward

In January 1966 he returned to Pusan, Korea where he married JJ, and their life has been one big adventure since. After 60 years of marriage, Ed’s advice is to marry someone smarter than you and everything else will fall into place.

CONTINUED >

“Marry someone smarter than you and everything else will fall into place. ”

“I am now in America and I am now a civilian, but although I am home I am very sad and my heart is very heavy since I had to leave you at the train station.”

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk

• 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips, chopped

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 1/2 cups frozen or thawed kataifi, cut into small shreds (about 3 ounces)

• 1 (3.9 ounce) package chocolate instant pudding and pie filling

• 1 cup pistachio cream (such as Flora® pistachio crunchy spread)

• 3 tablespoons  tap water

• 1/2 cup chopped lightly salted pistachios, plus more for garnish

• 1 1/2 tablespoons tahini

• 1 quart whole fresh strawberries with tops

• flaky sea salt (optional)

Dubai Chocolate STRAWBERRY DIP

ARTICLE BY ANNIE CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBBY LOZANO

This Dubai chocolate strawberry dip mimics a Dubai chocolate bar. Velvety chocolate pudding, intensified with the addition of melted chocolate chips, is topped with a crunchy, toasted kataifi and pistachio layer, and served with whole strawberries for dipping. This is the perfect Valentine's Day treat whether you're staying in for date night, girl's night at the house, or even if you just want to sit on the couch and indulge all on your own.

DIRECTIONS:

1. Gather all ingredients.

2. Heat milk in a saucepan over low until steaming, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in chocolate chips until smooth.

3. Pour melted chocolate into a large shallow bowl. Cover with plastic wrap with wrap touching the surface of the chocolate mixture. Freeze until mixture is thickened and chilled, about 30 minutes.

4. While chocolate mixture chills, melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add kataifi and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 6 minutes. Transfer to a bowl; set aside 3 tablespoons for garnish.

5. Pour chilled chocolate mixture through a finemesh strainer set over a large bowl with instant pudding. Whisk mixture constantly until slightly thickened and pudding mix is dissolved, about 4 minutes. Refrigerate until ready to use.

6. In a separate bowl, stir together pistachio cream and water until smooth. Gently fold in kataifi, pistachios, and tahini until combined.

7. Transfer kataifi mixture to a shallow serving bowl; spread in an even layer. Then, top mixture with chocolate pudding in an even layer.

8. Garnish with reserved kataifi, pistachios, and flaky salt, if desired. Serve with strawberries.

Love Local

Tried and true local favorites for dining, shopping, and entertainment

From charming boutiques and cozy cafés to gathering places rich with history and flavor, these locally owned spots reflect the heart of the community. Supporting local means investing in neighbors, creativity, and the unique character that sets Madison apart. Whether you’re shopping Main Street, meeting friends for lunch, or discovering a new favorite, these businesses invite you to slow down, connect, and experience all the reasons we love local.

Favorite Things

Favorite Things is a locally-owned, one stop shop for gifts, home décor, accessories, and seasonal finds, perfect for thoughtful shopping. Definitely make this a stop on your Main Street shopping tour.

ShopMoss

ShopMoss brings modern style to Providence with curated clothing, accessories, gifts, and their signature charm bar. Owner, Vania Morris blends her Italian style with warm Southern hospitality in a beautifully designed local shopping experience.

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE

Old Black Bear Brewing

“Supporting local means investing in neighbors, creativity, and the unique character that sets Madison apart.”

Old Black Bear Brewing Company is a local favorite specializing in craft beer and Southern food. Catch their weekly specials, live music and events that the whole family will enjoy for brunch, lunch or dinner!

Main Street Cafe

Main Street Cafe is a beloved community staple known for fresh sandwiches, soups, salads and creative entrees. Their friendly service and comforting meals have made it a downtown favorite for 25 years.

ShakeIT Boba

ShakeIT Boba adds fun flavor to Madison with creative bubble tea, refreshing drinks, and customizable treats, making it a go-to spot for teens, families, and boba lovers alike. As if boba isn’t fun on its own, they spared no detail on the atmosphere of this tea shop, and you can even buy your very own boba plushie!

Lanier House

Lanier House is a historic landmark turned tea house, and this is a must to get dressed up with the girls and enjoy a high tea experience with small bites from special seasonally-themed menus. Stay updated on their changing themes by keeping an eye on their Instagram and be sure to book reservations in advance.

VALENTINE’S DAY

GIFT GUIDE

Local gifts for the ones you love

1. WITH LOVE BY NOELLA $75+

From soft pastels to timeless whites, each bouquet is thoughtfully designed to capture life’s most beautiful moments. With the option to add a treat or gift alongside flowers and a personal love note of your own, this is a complete, thoughtful way to send love to your Valentine anywhere in the country.

2.DAVID YURMAN BLUE TOPAZ FROM LORING&CO @LORINGANDCO

This 18k gold Blue Topaz and Diamond ring is an iconic design, making it a show stopper for this Valentine's Day.

3. KRISTI HYDE JEWELRY AT THE LITTLE GREEN STORE @THELITTLEGREENSTORE

Inspired by her North Alabama roots, Kristi Hyde jewelry features handcrafted designs with organic textures and artistic flair, offering distinctive pieces that feel personal, wearable, and effortlessly unique everyday treasures.

4. SHOPMOSS LOLLIA BUBBLE BATH $65 @ SHOPMOSS

Treat your special someone to relaxation featuring soft fragrances and rich bubbles that turn an ordinary soak into a calming, spa-like self-care ritual at home moments.

5. SHOPMOSS CHARM NECKLACE $100+ @SHOPMOSS

The ShopMoss Charm Bar allows you to build a custom piece with meaningful charms, creating a stylish, personal keepsake perfect for layering everyday with ease. This is a thoughtful, personal gift that will be cherished and can be added to as your relationship reaches new milestones.

6. CASHMERE AND AMBER 2 IN 1 LOTION CANDLE FROM FAVORITE THINGS @FAVORITETHINGS

If you're looking for a unique gift that is also useful, this 2-in-1 candle is the gift you need. The candle melts into warm, nourishing lotion, combining cozy fragrance and skincare for an indulgent gift that pampers beautifully at home anytime.

FEBRUARY 2026

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 1ST

The Harlem Globetrotters

VBC Propst Arena | 3:00 PM

100 Years of Thrills. 100 Years of Laughs. 100 Years of Joy.

This is a once-in-a-century celebration of 100 Years of Jaw-Dropping "No Way!" moves, 100 Years of "Wow!" and 100 Years of Heart-Pounding Thrills! The Harlem Globetrotters are coming with their most LEGENDARY TOUR EVER.  Bring the whole family for this afternoon of fun! Tickets on sale at ticketmaster.com. @harlemglobetrotters

FEBRUARY 11TH

Books & Ballet-Storytime with the Huntsville Ballet

Madison Public Library | 10:30 AM

The Madison Public Library will be hosting a special storytime with the Huntsville Ballet on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 10:30 to 11:30 AM. The special guest will read a book and guide visitors through songs and dance movements inspired by the story.

FEBRUARY 14TH

Love To Run Valentine's Day 5K

Palmer Park 574 Palmer Rd. Madison, AL US 35758 | 8:00 AM

Grab your partner for a certified Valentine's Day 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run to start your day off right! Whether you're racing your heart out or jogging for joy, this Valentine’s Day run is for everyone who LOVES TO RUN! Visit runsignup.com for pricing and registration

FEBRUARY 15TH

David Foster & Katherine McPhee

Mark C. Smith Concert Hall | 6:00 PM

Join David Foster and Katherine McPhee on their "An Intimate Evening" tour, where they perform hits from Foster's career and McPhee's Broadway/TV roles, plus music and personal stories. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com

FEBRUARY 20TH - 22ND

Winnie the Pooh The Musical

Fantasy Playhouse Children's Theatre 3320 Triana Blvd | 7:00 PM

Take a stroll through the Hundred Acre Wood with Goodman & Tanner's new adaptation of Winnie-the-Pooh the Musical! Join Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore, Rabbit, Owl, Kanga, Roo, and Christopher Robin in this delightful, whimsical adventure adapted from A.A. Milne’s beloved stories. fantasyplayhouse.org

FEBRUARY 25TH - 28TH

Disney on Ice presents Mickey's Search Party

VBC Propst Arena | 6:00 PM

Explore the colorful spirit realm of Coco with Miguel, brave the ocean with Moana, marvel at Belle's enchanted chandelier, and sing with Elsa. Watch Stitch crash the action with mischievous surprises. Featuring spectacular ice skating, daring aerial stunts, and memorable moments from Aladdin, Toy Story, and The Little Mermaid, this all-out celebration delivers nonstop music, mischief, and memories. Visit DisneyonIce.com for more information

3 Ledge View Drive, Huntsville, AL, 35802

8 BD / 11 BA / 13,716 SQ.FT. | Experience elevated living in The Ledges, Huntsville’s premier gated golf community. This private estate offers stunning bluff views, refined architectural details, multiple suites, elevator access, and access to resortstyle amenities for true luxury living.

|

26 Acre Estate in Southeast Alabama

$2,995,000

262 County Road 664, Coffee Springs, AL, 36318 Connor Brookman +1 (256) 7

3 BD / 4 BA / 2,582 SQ.FT. | This remarkable 26-acre property features five distinct buildings, including a main house, historic cabin, boathouse, workshop, and art studio. Thoughtfully designed and privately set, the estate blends craftsmanship, creativity, and space for living, working, and retreating

|

118 Creekmound Drive, Huntsville, AL, 35806

Convenient Living on Large Lot

$1,400,000

5 BD / 4 BA / 4,304 SQ.FT. | Beautiful 1-acre property with open-concept living, vibrant interiors, wood floors, cozy gas FP, and a well-appointed kitchen with quartz, island, and walk-in pantry Primary suite w/ huge closet + laundry Loft, family room, and great outdoor space backing to Indian Creek.

Brian May +1 (256) 497-6780 | brian may@evrealestate

Newly Developed RV Park in Troy, Alabama

$789,000

19.86 ACRES | Trojan Station RV Park in Troy, Alabama is a newly developed hospitality asset opened in November 2023 The 19 86-acre property offers 76 RV sites with highway frontage, strong visibility, expansion potential, and demand driven by Troy University and the Troy Sportsplex.

$1,800,000