The popular EGOT winner brings his intimate concert experience to Tampa Bay.
28 SPACES WITH SOUL
Curating interiors that joyfully reflect the essence of the people who live there.
36 OUTDOOR SHIFT
The backyard becomes a wellness retreat and oasis for reconnecting with nature.
40 VANESSA WILLIAMS
Catch up with the globetrotting former general manager of The Vinoy Hotel.
46 MICHAEL SAUNDERS
The woman who helped define luxury living in Sarasota sets her sights on St. Pete.
54 CHEF’S TABLE: TYSON GRANT
Meet the third generation 'Burger behind one our area’s most beloved eateries.
On The Cover and this page: John Legend by Art Streiber/NBCUniversal Photography.
Above: A room in Southwest Pottery 48 by Benjamin Moore & Co.
At left: Tyson Grant by Thee Photo Ninja.
One thing we know for sure is that our homes matter more than ever. We are spending more time within their walls, as they have taken on the functions of workplace, entertaining hub and sanctuary all at once.
And while we often see images of impossibly chic, pared-down contemporary interiors with muted color palettes, there is a parallel path to achieve home sweet home that embraces a more traditional, eclectic and personal approach. It favors a mix of furnishings drawn from different periods, rich color and artfully layered textures. These are homes that evolve over time, grounded in history, elevated by personality and finished with unexpected touches.
ELLE Decor’s Benjamin Reynaert is fascinated by those kinds of homes and shares insights from his new publishing project, The Layered Home: An Interior Design Book, which explores how treasures gathered on far-flung travels, vintage finds, antiques and heirloom pieces can be mingled to create something perfectly imperfect, distinctly unique and unmistakably your own.
We also spoke with husband-and-wife team Heather and Matt French of French & French Interiors in Santa Fe about their local Florida Fleur project here in St. Pete. The nationally recognized duo, known for bold, expressive and deeply personal spaces, also embraces the layered look while celebrating their clients’ individuality, guided by the belief that a home should feel intimate and reflective of the people who live there.
The outside can be as much a part of home as the inside and there's a lot of fresh thinking about how we can align those spaces with our personal values and collective desire for feel-good experiences.
Hospitality and shared experiences remain central to making one feel at home and we had the opportunity to spend time with some individuals who have elevated that concept to an art form, including chef Tyson Grant of Parkshore Grill, luxury real estate powerhouses Michael and Drayton Saunders and Vanessa Williams, who managed The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club’s celebrated historic renovation. We learned about their journeys to the top of their respective fields and what home means to each of them.
Ultimately, a home isn’t about chasing trends or everything in a perfect place. It’s about how we curate our own collections and display the objects that bring joy or put us at ease.
We are grateful that you welcome St. Pete Life into your home—whether as a fixture on your coffee table, an addition to your nightstand or your latest beach read. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together.
BETH ANN DRAKE Publisher bdrake@stpetelifemag.com
NICK STEELE Editor-In-Chief editor@stpetelifemag.com
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This single-level home is impeccable in its floorplan and finishes, located between downtown and the beaches. A genuine must-see.
One-of-a-kind single-family home in Tierra Verde with views over the Port 32 Marina dockage and the Grand Canal.
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Views from this Tierra Verde Pool Home The Best St. Petersburg Views, right on Beach Drive
The open Bay during the day and the excitement of the pier at night will be your every day
The open Bay during the day and the excitement of the pier at night will be your every day experience in this 19th floor Florencia unit.
The open Bay during the day and the excitement of the pier at night will be your every day experience in this 19th floor Florencia unit.
Rare 4-bedroom End Unit in Pasadena Yacht & Country Club
Rare 4-bedroom End Unit in Pasadena Yacht &
Rare 4-bedroom End Unit in Pasadena Yacht & Country Club
Wide canal views from this townhome-style condominium, every surface upgraded with exceptional taste. This one is special. 4-bedrooms, 3 baths, garage, courtyard, large balcony. $1,295,000
Wide
Wide canal views from this townhome-style condominium, every surface upgraded with exceptional taste. This one is special.
3 baths, garage, courtyard, large balcony. $1,295,000
Single-Level High and Dry Beauty with Amazing Pool
Single-Level High and Dry Beauty with Amazing Pool
Your key to the island lifestyle is on this corner lot in the desirable Monte Cristo neighborhood on the island paradise of Tierra Verde.
Your key to the island lifestyle is on this corner lot in the desirable Monte Cristo neighborhood on the island paradise of Tierra Verde.
lifestyle is on this corner lot in the desirable Monte Cristo neighborhood on the island paradise of Tierra Verde.
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501 Barcelona Drive
Located on Tierra Verde’s Grand Canal, with deep water dockage and quick Gulf access, 501 Barcelona Dr. is a unique custom home that was built to maximize both resilience and enjoyment. Completed in 2024, this single-level home was constructed by Crescent Homes using a combination of commercial grade elements, including ES impact-rated windows, cast-inplace reinforced concrete beams, and 189 pilings beneath the home and pool deck to create a structural masterpiece, engineered to endure the unexpected. The elevated pool deck creates a perfect indoor-outdoor flow for everyday living and supreme entertaining, rare in elevated homes which usually require stairs to access the outdoor living. A disappearing-edge pool and full outdoor kitchen enhance the waterfront experience, while a Control4 smart home system and full solar array complete the modern infrastructure. The interior was designed by renowned designer Mandy Vallow, who skillfully blended textures, fixtures, and tones to create a sumptuous experience of refined elegance. A rare offering on one of the Gulf Coast’s most desirable stretches of boating water. Listed by Andrew Salamone of The Salamone Group, Compass
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THE MUSIC MAN
FRESH OFF HIS RETURN TO THE VOICE, MULTI-AWARDWINNING SINGER-SONGWRITER JOHN LEGEND HEADS BACK TO TAMPA BAY FOR AN INTIMATE CONCERT BLENDING SOULFUL VOCALS WITH PERSONAL STORIES ABOUT HIS LIFE AND JOURNEY TO STARDOM. BY NICK STEELE
John Legend, who was born John Roger Stephens, knew he wanted to be a performer at the tender age of 7, when he felt the crowd’s response as he sang in front of a live audience. Raised in a musical family, his father was a drummer and his mother the choir director at their church, where his grandmother was the organist.
The story of how he excelled as a student, musician and professional management consultant—driven by his belief that he could positively impact the world—and went on to become a global superstar, is the stuff of, well…legends.
He made some pivotal early music connections and collaborations, with such powerhouse talents as Lauryn
Hill, Jay-Z and Alicia Keys. Those opportunities led him to forge relationships with music industry insiders and create a path of his own making, which eventually allowed him to launch himself as a performing artist. It was spoken-word artist and poet J. Ivy who dubbed him “The Legend” because he sounded like one of the legendary old-school music talents. Soon, others were calling him “John Legend.” He eventually decided to adopt it as his professional name, as it would challenge him to live up to the high expectations he had for himself.
At 48, the critically acclaimed, multiplatinum artist and producer has garnered 13 Grammys, an Oscar, a Golden
Globe, a Tony and four Emmys, making him one of only 22 people with EGOT status (those who have won at least one of each of the four main entertainment awards). He is widely regarded as one of the most versatile entertainers in history. He also recently returned as a coach on The Voice. The new season, Battle of Champions, which features only three coaches—himself, Adam Levine and Kelly Clarkson, premiered on February 23rd.
“I love coaching. I have fun every time,” Legend says. “I know Adam and Kelly very well. We really do love and respect each other and are excited to work together. We’ve been looking forward to this for a while. And our producers never let us down. They always give us such amazing talent. America is full of so many great singers.”
When I ask about career highlights, he doesn’t hesitate.
“Winning the Oscar for Glory from the movie Selma, a film about Dr. Martin Luther King. It was a dream come true,” he offers. “To win for that song…for that film and to share it with Common [his co-writer on the song], that’s truly one of the greatest moments in my life.”
Perhaps the most iconic association people have with Legend is a vision of him sitting at a grand piano, pouring his whole heart into every note of a sentimental ballad. It is also an image I’ve been carrying around over the past 13 years—from a cookout he and his now-wife Chrissy Teigen hosted at their home, high in the Hollywood Hills. It was a casual get-together of friends and family on one of those perfect California weather days. We circulated between the glamorous home’s great room and the pool deck with its sweeping views of Los Angeles. Legend was manning the grill, but he’d dip back into the house regularly, sit at the piano, tell stories and then play a song for us. They were already quite famous but also energetically upbeat, charmingly irreverent and disarmingly down-to-earth for celebrities. The thing about the cookout is that it had a lot of
shared DNA with his upcoming show, An Evening of Songs & Stories, which is an intimate theater experience at the Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater on March 18th. In fact, the performance is the kickoff for this tour and features Legend alone at the piano, sharing personal stories and performing straightforward versions of his hits.
When I draw the parallel between that idyllic afternoon in Hollywood and this tour, he laughs.
“Well, it won’t exactly be the experience you had,” he says good-naturedly. “But close…close!”
A performance like this is sometimes called a "Living Room Experience.” Fans love the personal format because it strips the songs and storytelling aspects down to their essence.
“It's really an intimate night, just me sitting at the piano telling the stories that explain my songwriting, my life growing up, all the ups and downs in my family. I love it because I get to really be my full self on stage,” Legend shares. “This is one of my favorite things to do. There's something really spe-
Opposite page: Scenes from The Oscars: Legend performs; Teigen and Legend; Common and Legend's win. This page: Legend perforrms at the Grammys; The Voice's Levine, Clarkson and Legend.
cial about these nights. I think when you're writing songs and performing music, people are getting a lot of you, but when they're able to get the stories behind it, they're getting kind of the full version of who you are. And it's been really fun to share that with people. I just love connecting with my fans. They’ll tell me, ‘This got me through high school’ or ‘it got me through this relationship.’ Just knowing that I have been a part of people’s lives is really special.”
As to whether he’s spent time in our area before?
“Oh, absolutely, I love it,” he replies excitedly. “I have been there many times to perform, once for the Super Bowl and my nephew went to USF, so yes, many times.”
He shares that he has a new album called Velvet that he collaborated on with Pharrell Williams, which will be coming out later this year, and has been writing music for two Broadway shows.
Oh, he also says he and Chrissy still love entertaining friends at home, in fact, he got a smoker last year that he’s obsessed with. Do I smell a cookout?
For tickets visit rutheckerdhall.com or call (727) 791-7400.
SPACES WITH SOUL
HOMEOWNERS AND DESIGNERS ARE MOVING BEYOND THE PURSUIT OF PICTURE-PERFECT MINIMALISM TOWARD SPACES THAT FEEL INTENTIONAL, PERSONAL AND RICHLY LAYERED, EMBRACING THE IDEA THAT A HOME SHOULD JOYFULLY REFLECT THE ESSENCE AND EXPERIENCES OF THE PEOPLE WHO LIVE THERE.
By Daniel Taylor
For much of the past decade, interior design has leaned toward restraint. Neutral palettes, pared-back styling and stark minimalism have offered visual calm in an increasingly loud world.
Even paint choices took a hit, as our so-called “colors of the year” drifted in more like whispers on a cloudy day than shades that might actually take us by storm. But more and more, we’ve seen a return to more vibrant shades. Benjamin Moore’s Winding Waterway, seen here in an entryway, feels welcoming and
adds dimension to an often overlooked space. Richly pigmented blues like this one, particularly those with green or gray undertones, resonate for their balance of warmth and sophistication. These hues are often described as visual relaxants that can influence mood, foster calm and create a tranquil backdrop, making them especially well-suited to bedrooms, dining rooms and living areas. Strong color also provides an ideal backdrop for gallery walls, creating a sense of visual depth that allows artwork to stand out with striking clarity.
Alongside this renewed boldness is a broader move toward something more resonant: spaces that feel expressive, lived-in and deeply personal. As interiors move away from the staged austerity of minimalism, there is a growing appetite for rooms that feel layered, mixing periods and furniture styles alongside treasured belongings and eclectic collections—a kind of visual feast rooted in storytelling. It is a sensibility often embraced by noted local interior design stars Lisa Gilmore and Rob Bowen, both known for crafting spaces that feel at once elevated and unmistakably individual.
It is also the basis of Benjamin Reynaert’s new book, The Layered Home: Inspiration for Crafting Cozy Collected Rooms, in which ELLE Decor’s Market Director explores how the homes are composed and exhibit powerfully personal stories through “a devotion to collections; sometimes many, assorted artifacts from time and travels; and zealous attention to tiny details that contribute to the collective character of a space.”
He marvels at the curation and how treasures gathered throughout the years can be mingled to create something perfectly imperfect, distinctly unique and unmistakably the basis of both their homes and their rich histories.
“As a young boy, I sometimes found myself frozen with wonder when I entered certain rooms, particularly those displaying
Clockwise from left: India Holmes’ bedroom, Sean McNanney and Sinan Tuncay’s living room, Georgia Tapert Howes’ kitchen, all from The Layered Home.
echelons of detail both high and low,” Reynaert explains. “At the time, I didn't know what this reverence meant. But I knew it was important. Almost sacred. The thing I love most about layered living is that the same principles work whether you're a diehard maximalist or a strict minimalist. My goal in sharing layered interiors is really about bringing out your personality and finding what makes your space your own. I'm all for personal expression without boundaries when it comes to decorating.”
The book features residences that exhibit the sort of powerfully personal spaces he loves, accompanied by interviews with their intriguing inhabitants.
“Having spent over a decade getting to peek inside the homes of the designers, artists and tastemakers I most admire, I've learned that the most successful, memorable projects incorporate things that are very much loved. Love for objects doesn't discriminate between an expensive antique with historical provenance and a whimsical souvenir from a trip or a lovely shell picked up at the beach.” Reynaert writes. “Knowing the difference between what's beautiful, purposeful and meaningful and what is simply transactional is no easy task. Every detail counts, from what type of waste bin sits beneath your desk to the pen you write with. I believe in finding and using aesthetically pleasing things for even the most utilitarian of jobs.”
At its core, layering is about building a room gradually. It encourages mixing old and new, pairing refined finishes with everyday comfort and allowing spaces to evolve over time. This approach supports longevity. When homeowners invest in wellmade pieces and incorporate items with personal history, rooms become less trend-driven and more enduring.
“We often tell the client, take the time to get what you really want,” shares David King of DōMA Home Furnishings, stressing that curation requires strategy and time to complete. “Accommodating the best solution in the shortest timeframe oftentimes means sacrificing or compromising on design components or pieces in lieu of achieving what you really want, for the sake of time or money.”
Instead, he suggests establishing a realistic timeline to achieve just the right mix of furnishings, materials and options by working with one of their design consultants to assist with your objectives.
Husband-and-wife duo Heather and Matt French of French & French Interiors, based in Santa Fe, also see each space they design as a “layered narrative—artful, intuitive and deeply personal.”
They begin each design with a conversation and a deep curiosity about how their clients live, including their recent standout St. Pete-based project.
This page and opposite: French & French Interiors’ Florida Fleur project, photos by Jenna Peffley.
“It’s a collaborative journey toward creating interiors that don’t just look extraordinary, but feel alive with joy, meaning and imagination woven into every detail,” Heather explains. “Our Florida Fleur project is a tribute to the romance of Old Florida style, reimagined through a European lens. Our client, who is originally from France, dreamed of a home that reflected her heritage while capturing the breezy charm of coastal living. With that vision in mind, we layered vibrant colors, intricate patterns and tailored details throughout—anchored by classic black and white checkered stone floors that run from room to room. The result is a space that feels both storied and fresh, elegant yet deeply personal. This home represents what we love most about design: honoring history, embracing boldness and creating something that feels truly timeless.”
Their focus was on creating joyful interiors, beginning with a harmonious mix of color and pattern, then experimenting with texture and scale to achieve a balanced and cohesive environment.
“A home should feel personal and reflective of the people who live there,” Heather shares, echoing the same belief as Reynaert. “That’s where the feel-good quality really comes from. We also encourage clients to think about architectural changes or incorporating custom millwork. Those elements instantly bring character and a sense of soul to a space. Then there are the small
details, which often make the biggest difference—elements you interact with every single day: hardware, light switches, wallpaper, finishes. You might have great taste, but translating that into a cohesive, fully realized home is a different skill set. Having a team to guide you through the process truly changes the game.”
For those who want to pursue the layered approach on their own, think about it as an exercise in creating visual interest and depth without clutter, balancing calm foundations with character-driven details. Accent walls, upholstered furniture, art and textiles allow homeowners to introduce personality without sacrificing balance. Pattern works in a similar way. Subtle stripes, botanical prints and geometric motifs add movement and interest. Beyond furniture and finishes, personal objects often carry the greatest emotional weight. Artwork collected over time, a well-worn armchair, a handcrafted ceramic bowl, family photographs and collectible items give rooms narrative depth. These elements transform houses into layered homes that tell our stories.
Visit frenchandfrenchinteriors.com and domahomefurnishings. com for more information. The Layered Home, published by Clarkson Potter, is available through amazon.com
French & French Interiors’ Florida
Fleur
project,
photos by Jen na Peffley.
OUTDOOR SHIFT
Outdoor living spaces have evolved from a casual extension of the home into destination spaces—an oasis for relaxing, recharging and reconnecting with nature. Spa-inspired features, sustainable materials and thoughtfully designed landscaping are at the center of this shift..
Now more than ever, homeowners are seeking comfort and thoughtful curation that reflects their values and lifestyle, rather than outdoor spaces that feel like an afterthought. This has sparked a desire to transform backyards into personal retreats where intentional living meets elevated design. From meditative gardens and wellness elements to resort-style furnishings that blend refined aesthetics with sustainability, these spaces are designed not just to look beautiful, but to feel genuinely restorative.
MINDFUL STYLE
Homeowners are increasingly seeking outdoor furnishings and finishes that balance environmental responsibility with sophisticated style. Recycled composite materials, responsibly sourced wood and powder-coated metals engineered for longevity are replacing short-lifecycle products.
“More and more, consumers are seeking sustainable luxury because it bridges the gap between high-end aesthetics and personal values. Our curated collections feature some of the highest-quality materials in the industry, including powder-coated aluminum, sustainable teak and Ipe wood, UV-protected resin wicker, recycled marine-grade polymer and high-performance fabrics like Sunbrella, allowing us to help clients create spaces that meet that expectation and feel effortlessly luxurious,” Stephanie Stegman of Elegant Outdoor Living explains. “For many luxury consumers today, sustainability is not just an ethical choice, but a signal of quality, craftsmanship and thoughtful design.”
A NATURAL EXTENSION
While indoor-outdoor living has long been a cornerstone of Florida homes, today there’s a desire to make these spaces a seamless, natural extension of the home, enhancing the ease of interconnected living. By bringing nature inside through biophilic design—using materials, textures and color palettes inspired by the outdoors—you create interiors that flow effortlessly into exterior spaces, fostering a sense of balance, harmony and greater enjoyment of your home.
Pools are also no longer treated as add-ons or standalone features. Modern pool design is focused on creating an integrated environment with a focus on customization. Industry experts have seen an increase in resort-inspired elements, from installing plunge pools to incorporating sun shelves and hot tubs.
“These elements are often enhanced with additional features such as waterfalls and larger deck areas, creating inviting and functional spaces for relaxation and entertainment,” explains Doug King, the owner of King Contracting. “These upgraded pool areas are typically complemented by a range of exterior features. Stone or paver walkways, often lined with soft LED lighting, guide guests to focal points like gas fire pits, outdoor kitchens and comfortable covered patios or pergolas. Together, these amenities contribute to a cohesive and welcoming outdoor environment that supports both leisure and social gatherings.”
In fact, chromatherapy LED lighting, cascading waterfalls and bubbling fountains are increasingly recognized as essential, multi-sensory components in designing wellness zones. They
work together to induce a state of deep relaxation by combining color therapy with immersive, natural soundscapes that provide a soothing refuge from the stresses of daily life.
WATER WAYS
According to From The Ground Up Pools in Seminole, plunge pools are ideal for homeowners seeking the benefits and enjoyment—but without the maintenance of a traditional pool—or those looking to enhance a limited outdoor space. This trend, known as “aquatic downsizing," promotes the idea that plunge pools provide the luxury of a swimming pool without the logistical headaches of a full-sized installation. They offer the same core enjoyment factors as larger pools, such as cooling off, hydrotherapy and a visual focal point for the landscape, but with a smaller price tag and faster installation time.
To create a calm, resort-like atmosphere, many designers are utilizing muted tones and materials like charcoal, deep blue and matte stone in patio designs.
BEYOND THE POOL
While pools anchor many outdoor plans, water features are increasingly being expressed in quieter, more architectural forms. Reflecting pools with minimalist edges mirror surrounding greenery and sky, adding visual depth without requiring complicated upkeep. Meditation gardens, seating alcoves and minimalist plant compositions provide visual calm and sensory balance. In regions with intense sun and seasonal rainfall like ours, shade structures have also become essential design elements. Pergolas with adjustable louvers, retractable canopies and screened patios allow outdoor spaces to remain usable throughout the year and evoke a sense of timeless sophistication.
CONNECTED COMFORT
Technology is quietly transforming outdoor spaces in ways that make life easier and more enjoyable. Smart irrigation systems adjust watering based on the weather, while app-controlled lighting and pool systems let you set the perfect ambiance and temperature with the touch of a finger.
“Homeowners are constantly seeking innovative ways to improve the safety and comfort of their living spaces. With a variety of options available, many are turning to smart home technology, that can be controlled via cell phone, allowing instant access and use upon arriving home after a long day at work,” King explains. “The integration of health and safety features not only improves daily living but also increases property values. Homeowners seeking to upgrade from
their original purchase are especially interested in properties equipped with these modern amenities, making them a valuable investment for the future.”
NATURAL INSTINCTS
Sustainable planting is taking center stage in Central Florida landscapes, especially as decreased rainfall has become a growing concern. Using native and climate-adapted plants not only cuts down on irrigation needs but also supports pollinators and local ecosystems. Smart techniques like drip irrigation, organic mulching and rain gardens help manage runoff and keep soil healthy.
Xeriscaping has also come a long way. What was once seen as sparse, desert-style landscaping is now lush and layered, with texture, color and seasonal interest. These designs deliver big visual impact while using fewer resources, making them a perfect fit for Florida’s coastal climate.
“Xeriscapes require less maintenance, apart from pruning and weed clearing,” according to Southern Hospitality Lawn and Landscaping in St. Pete. “Therefore, upkeep is minimal compared to many other landscaping designs. Using plants indigenous to Florida can remove the necessity for fertilizers or pesticides and you can use appropriate nutrients that are supplied by healthy soils.”
CLS Landscape Services in Clearwater also specializes in xeriscaping and works with clients to create lush, vibrant landscapes that are designed for our region’s environment and do not require excess water use.
“Many people have the misconception that xeriscaping only means landscaping rocks and cacti—but we are here to say that is simply not the case,” they offer. “Although it is important to work with vegetation that is natural to your climate and soil composition, you might be surprised at how many options you actually have.”
In fact, rigid garden layouts are giving way to more organic planting strategies. Free-form compositions blend native plants, flowering perennials and edible species to create landscapes that feel dynamic rather than static. This approach, often referred to as chaos gardening or rewilding-inspired planting, prioritizes biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. The result is a garden that changes subtly throughout the seasons while supporting pollinators and reducing long-term maintenance.
Foodscaping further expands this concept by integrating herbs, fruit shrubs and edible plants into ornamental beds, allowing landscapes to serve both aesthetic and functional roles.
This current crop of outdoor trends reflects our collective shift toward design-forward strategies for building more intentional living spaces that enhance our overall sense of well-being.
HOME BASE
IF YOU THINK THE GLOBETROTTING FORMER GENERAL MANAGER OF THE VINOY HOTEL LEFT ST. PETE BEHIND WHEN SHE STEPPED AWAY TO PURSUE NEW CHALLENGES IN ANOTHER CITY, THINK AGAIN.
By Nick Steele
by Sandrasonik
Photography
For many, the name Vanessa Williams brings to mind the actress and singer known for Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty. But those in the know—both locally and in the international hospitality industry— are aware of another Vanessa Williams, one with an equally commanding presence, devoted following and intriguing celebrity connections.
Before she ever made her way to Florida, Williams had built a nearly three-decade career in luxury hotel leadership, with key roles at iconic properties including Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, Raffles L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, Sandy Lane in Barbados, Sukhothai Bangkok, Waldorf Astoria Beijing, Conrad Seoul and the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. Her reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality made her highly sought after across the globe—from Asia to the Caribbean and the United States—which eventually led to an offer from The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club. Once there, she oversaw a historic $100M renovation and rebrand that elevated the hotel’s luxury standing and helped solidify St. Pete’s emerging profile as a premier Florida destination.
It was the perfect challenge for the highly sought-after executive who has historically found herself at the top of
the list when an elite property has either needed a prestige makeover or a glamorous coming out moment. And with her ladylike refinement, gamine good looks reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn and a distinctly aristocratic South African accent, she arrived like a fairy godmother to the fading grand dame of St. Pete’s downtown waterfront with enough magic to give the Vinoy the next chapter it so richly deserved.
Not surprisingly, she was an instant hit among the city’s old guard, who found her professional pedigree fascinating and her sophisticated sense of style impossible to ignore.
Williams is fresh off a flight from New York when we sit down for a chat. She spends about half her time there, guiding the evolution of her newest project as the managing director at the ultra-elite boutique hotel The Manner, which Vogue describes as being akin to a “private member’s club” and “like staying at the home of the most stylish person you know.” Its European elegance and contemporary glamour have made it a favorite with fashion design houses like Marc Jacobs and Coach.
“It makes me crazy when people say we have moved. St. Pete is my home,” Williams declares in response to the notion that she and her husband Eric have relocated. “I'm working there. I'm passionate about working and about hospitality, but it's like I say to the owner of The Manner, ‘I'm here because I want to be here, not because I need to be here.’ Sure, I would prefer to be at home with my husband and my dog in my community, but I also want to continue to pick and choose the projects I want to work on. I've done that my whole career. I'll keep doing it, but I will remain anchored here. It's phenomenal to be at that stage in your life where you can make those kinds of choices.”
She left her native South Africa in the late ‘80s to work in Europe, which began her period of professional exploration as a global citizen.
She and Eric first met in New York, through friends, when she was there opening a property.
“We were both out socially with friends and someone in our group brought Eric over to meet me,” Williams recalls. “We dated for six months and then I got offered a position back in Beverly Hills and I told him, ‘I don't want to do long distance. So, either you consider a move or we'll just write off the last six months.’ Because of work, he couldn't just up and leave, but he flew to LA every single weekend on a Friday night and then would get a red eye back on Sunday for eight months straight. That’s when I knew it was meant to be.”
During those years in Beverly Hills, she earned the trust of high-profile clients who valued her discretion and protection.
“On Oscars night 2003, I had nine guests at the hotel who had won an Academy Award that evening. Everybody came
“Wherever we were, it always felt like home.”
back to our bar afterwards and when they went to bed, I was left with four Academy Awards that were left in the lounge,” Williams shares. “Obviously when celebrities stay at your property, you have to be incredibly discreet and their presence in the hotel is kept at the highest level of confidentiality. I remember when Michael Jackson stayed with me for seven weeks at the Raffles property with his two children. I was the only person in the hotel who knew he was there and it was my job to protect his privacy for as long as I could. It’s a small industry and your reputation really does precede you. I love that people know that if you're going to send this person to me, I will make sure they are taken care of properly.”
In 2016, after years of crisscrossing the globe for various posts, she and Eric returned to the States for a different opportunity and realized they were ready to put down roots.
“Working in hospitality all around the world, I was always determined not to become one of those people who arrive at each new place with just a suitcase and a box,” she admits. “I never wanted to feel ‘temporary’ anywhere, so when Eric and I were first married and I took the job in Hong Kong, we
left with a 20-foot container of furniture, with the idea that we're going to find a home and surround ourselves with what we know. I always felt that way and I loved setting up home in each country. I loved that first morning when we woke up in our own place. You’d look out of the window and you're in Beijing, or you're in Seoul… you look out of the window and the Forbidden City is right there. Wherever we were, it always felt like home in this fantastic country that we got to live in. Granted, Eric said to me many years later that it was starting to feel heavy to move around with containers of furniture. The hardest part was that we loved all the things we collected during our travels, so the container got bigger and bigger. Everything had meaning, but eventually it got to the point that we had a 20-foot container of furniture in storage.”
She admits that Florida was originally not on their radar and although she knew her role at The Vinoy was something with a finite timeline, she was somewhat surprised how much St. Pete felt like home.
“Once we returned to the United States, I think we both thought we would probably end up in Georgia. We love Atlanta,” she shares. “So, it was a surprise and a gift all at the same time.
“When I took the position at The Vinoy, I did not know how long the renovation was going to take, but as we got through everything, the last piece of that being the opening of Elliot Aster, I felt I had achieved what I had joined the Vinoy to do. I actually knew, six months before I transitioned out, that I would leave. The timing was right. I wanted to leave on a high, having accomplished everything I had set out to do. I loved every minute of being there and I’m incredibly proud of it. I'm friends with some of our members and it fills me with pride when they say, ‘We can't walk into the hotel without thinking about you. There is a piece of you all over the place.’ I love that legacy. I have employees I’m still in touch with, because they had become like family.”
What the couple also love is the sense of place they have found here and their strong community ties.
“St. Pete has something special about it. It feels like a community. We've made lots of very close friends from all different walks of life here,” he offers. “This is the first time we've settled down in a place in a long time…that we can truly call home.”
During the photo shoot for this story, they guided me through many of their collected treasures in their stylish downtown home, from intricate tribal masks and sacred objects to vibrant photos of smiling school children and young monks that they took themselves and Vanessa had printed on canvas.
“I don't think I've ever felt more comfortable anywhere,” she asserts.
“I love the people and being embraced by the community. It was a surprise and a gift all at the same time. I could see us being here for the rest of our lives.”
A NEW AGE OF LUXURY
MICHAEL SAUNDERS IS NOT JUST A NAME THAT RESIDENTS ALONG THE GULF COAST RECOGNIZE FOR ITS CONNECTION TO HIGH-END REAL ESTATE. THE PIONEERING FORCE BEHIND THE BRAND HAS HELPED SHAPE THE REGION’S IDENTITY FOR THE PAST 50 YEARS. NOW THE FOCUS SHIFTS TO ST. PETE AND BEYOND. BY NICK STEELE
Despite any initial confusion her name may cause, Michael Saunders is, in fact, a decidedly chic and distinguished woman. More notable, however, is the attention she garners when she enters a room. She surveys the scene, offering enthusiastic greetings to those she knows, while quietly acknowledging those she does not with a confident nod and a reassuring smile. That commanding presence is a distinguishing quality among
many highly successful people who are used to occupying spaces where they are in demand. In this way, she conveys a clear sense of purpose while radiating a gracious warmth central to her success.
Over the past five decades, Saunders has become synonymous with luxury real estate, helping to transform Sarasota from a quiet, scenic coastal enclave into a coveted destination for the world’s elite.
It was back in 1976 that she opened the doors of Michael Saunders & Company in a modest 1,000-square-foot office on St. Armands Circle, with a $5,000 loan that she needed to have co-signed by a male customer after several banks denied her one on her own merit, which was a common issue for women entrepreneurs of the time. From the outset, she was focused on filling a specific gap in the market—a brokerage that offered an elevated experience befitting the high-end lifestyles of the clients she set out to serve.
“When I got into the business, real estate was not the respected profession it is today,” she recalls. “People did it part-time, didn't dress particularly well and the offices didn't look professional. I thought, We're helping clients make the most important decision of their lives. Why can't we reflect that in the offices and in the stature of the people? I had no money, but I had an oriental rug from my mother and my grandmother's armoire, so I put them in an office. I had one listing and got a gold frame to display it in.”
That was the easy part. But what came next took considerably more work.
“To raise the bar and build a culture based on my values and ethics, that was difficult,” she explains. “But I felt that anyone who handed out our card would be proud to do so, because it reflected a high professional standard.”
What it also represented was a trailblazing woman with an unconventional name.
“I hated it when I was small, but I've loved it in business. It's been a great name,” Michael asserts. “I think when you're prepared to put your name on the door, there's a lot of responsibility that goes with that.”
Her parents were well aware that they were bestowing an honor on the child they were expecting, as the name is an homage to a notable ancestor, the 16th-century English poet Michael Drayton.
“In those days, you didn't know whether you were having a boy or a girl ahead of time,” she shares. “So, when they chose the name Michael, my mother said, ‘If he's a boy, it'll be incredible for family tradition. If she's a girl, and she's interesting and cute, it'll be a great name. If she isn't, it won't matter what her name is.’”
The name suited her just fine and actually helped her establish herself during those early days. When she would call to schedule a meeting with someone she was trying to do business with, they often thought she was arranging it for her male boss.
“They thought I was a secretary and that was fine with me,” she says with a laugh. “I got the appointment and then, when I got my foot in the door, I didn't take it out. I had to believe in myself, because no one else did, except my family. I grew up in a family that was really rich in love, but not money. They
always told us, you can do anything you want in life, if you're prepared to pay the price.”
But none of those early hurdles fazed her.
“Was it difficult? Absolutely,” she asserts. “But I've loved the challenges and I've loved the opportunities. It has been a journey of joy.”
She credits some of her early confidence to having the choice between choir and the debate club in school.
“I couldn't sing, so I learned public speaking. It's so valuable to feel comfortable in your own skin when you are speaking,” she shares. “Back then, I had to step it up because there wasn't a place at most tables for women, either in the community in a leadership role or within the industry. I learned that knowing your facts and being passionate about what you do is really important. You sometimes need to have a loud voice, so I had to learn to be bold.”
Her boldness was married to a healthy dose of humility and gratitude that is still overwhelmingly apparent today.
“I always felt it was an honor to represent someone on either side of a transaction. That experience was about making
Scenes from a pioneering life: Michael as a child and at key moments in her career.
“When I got my foot in the door, I didn't take it out.”
—Michael Saunders
them feel wonderful,” Michael explains. “All I ever wanted to do was make a difference in people's lives. Our team also liked being part of a company that truly cared and wanted to raise the bar. This is a business of relationships and trust. For me, it has always been all about personal connections, involvement in the community, going shoulder to shoulder with the leadership team and being in the trenches with the agents.”
The company’s first year ended with more than $11 million in sales—a figure that proved she was on to something big. Through her diligence, Michael has broken barriers, redefined the luxury real estate market and built a brand that commands respect around the world. Today the original region boasts 19 offices and more than 650 agents, and that doesn’t include a plan to open a permanent office in St. Pete, the elite team they are assembling here or their plans to further expand throughout our region.
Now in her 80s, she is less reflective about the path that brought her here and more focused on the future of the company that bears her name, working “shoulder to shoulder” with her son Drayton in forging the next chapter. And yes, she carried on the tradition of bestowing that ancestral name on her progeny.
“Drayton is all about growth, but measured growth,” Michael offers. “He grew up saying he’d never join the business but, fortunately for me, he reconsidered and decided to join 23 years ago. It was really meaningful to know that if I was creating a legacy, there was someone who was as passionate as I was, but with a new view and different talents. I can't do what Drayton does. It's important in business to bring people on who are smarter than you and let them do their job.”
Drayton has, in fact, been the driving force in developing their presence here.
“I have been talking about being in St. Pete for a long time. I like to say we're here because I pushed on this for seven years. I could just tell this was a market we could be successful in, because it spoke to both the demographic that moved to this part of Florida, but also the knowledge that we bring something very special to the table,” he observes. “I had friends tell me, ‘I want to be in this part of the West Coast, but I need a different energy. I need a younger vibe. I want a little bit more of an urban-feel, but I don't want to lose access to the arts, culture and the beach.’ That's St. Pete. I remember how sleepy St. Pete used to be, but we watched from Sarasota as the St. Pete community did things to become its future self. We just had to find the right time to be here.”
That process started with the recruitment of top talent, beginning with the Jennifer Thayer Group, led by its namesake founder. Thayer has long been regarded as a powerhouse in the Tampa Bay real estate market and served as the cor-
nerstone for their local dream team, which they are strategically continuing to grow.
“It's about hand selecting the people who are with us. Our standards are pretty high, and I think it's reflected in the people who have joined us in St. Pete. They’re top producers and we're so proud to have them,” Michael explains, pointing out that it is a mix of passion, knowledge and drive that distinguishes them. “As Drayton says, this is not for the faint of heart. It is a very difficult business. Everyone thinks if you have a shiny new car and you like houses, you'd be good at real estate, but that is so wrong. There's an art and science to it.”
Michael and Drayton
Equally important is their commitment to foster the right environment for their team.
“You have to build a culture that understands the value of apprenticeship and mentorship. It’s in that sense that we're part of a collaborative culture, even if tomorrow we might be competing for the same listing,” Drayton shares. “Michael built that culture through fostering collaboration and by transferring knowledge by mentoring others.”
Michael also works to inspire them to be as bold and intentional as she was when she started out.
“Try to be 1% better every day. If I can just improve by 1% a day, just think what it might mean,” she offers. “It may be one more call, one more listing, appointment or email, but just one of those things could be the one that makes you more successful.”
And while she holds herself to that standard professionally, she admits she is only just learning to do that in terms of a work-life balance.
“I have three delicious grandchildren who are 3, 8 and 10. They call me Honey,” she offers with a beguiling smile. “I'm taking more time with them. Their parents are very strict about devices, so they have a child's sense of wonder about the world because they spend a lot of time outdoors and they have real touch points with people. I am enjoying seeing life through their eyes, which is so magical.”
In fact, she recently traveled with them to Paris where she and her granddaughter shared a special experience.
“We went to a cooking class and made these incredible lemon tarts. So now when I see her, she’ll say, ‘Let's make our French tarts.’ It's an all-day process. We cook everything together,” she says. “She’s quite the foodie.”
It’s clear from her proud admission that this is where she finds her 1% of self-care and balance.
“I love to be in the moment,” she shares. “That's something I’d like everyone to understand—the joy in life comes from being in the moment. Some people are so caught up in thinking about yesterday or tomorrow that they miss today. That's really too bad. Make every day a day of joy.”
Visit michaelsaunders.com to learn more.
The groundbreaking of The Residences at 400 Central
GROWTH WAVE
Our city’s skyline and housing market are rapidly changing. Here’s what buyers need to know.
St. Pete’s downtown and waterfront areas are undergoing one of the most dramatic building booms in recent history, with iconic projects reshaping the skyline and redefining upscale living in the region. According to local real estate insiders, buyers today are not just choosing residences—they’re choosing lifestyles. Walkable neighborhoods, enhanced amenities and long-term value are top priorities.
“If you’re in the market right now, you need to understand how different these buildings really are,” one insider says. “They may all offer luxury, but the way they deliver lifestyle and service varies dramatically.”
MOVE-IN READY / SELLING NOW
The Residences at 400 Central is already transforming the city’s skyline as the tallest residential building on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Rising 46 stories and 515 feet, this luxury tower developed by Red Apple Group features 301 condominiums and has begun welcoming its first residents as lower floors receive occupancy permits. Its blend of urban sophistication and sweeping views, combined with high-end amenities including outdoor pools, fitness facilities, co-working spaces and sky lounges, offers a full-service lifestyle experience.
The Nolen presents a distinctly different proposition for buyers seeking boutique exclusivity. This 23-story tower by DDA Development, with Backstreets Capital, comprises just 31 residences. All units have been sold and residents are
moving in, with resales now available. Each residence features a private elevator lobby and large terraces; amenities include a heated pool with spa, a fitness center, a wellness room and a private residents’ club. Its quieter setting near Beach Drive and waterfront parks appeals to those prioritizing privacy in a walkable urban location.
Saltaire, a 35-story tower developed by Kolter Urban, with 192 high-end residences, continues to draw buyers seeking waterfront living. Known for directly overlooking Al Lang Stadium (home of the Tampa Bay Rowdies), open layouts, high ceilings and an amenity deck overlooking Tampa Bay, Saltaire offers easy access to the Saturday Morning Market, the Mahaffey Theater and the museums.
Art House, a 42 story luxury condominium at 235 1st Avenue South, developed by Kolter Urban, comprises 244 residences. Designed by SB Architects with interiors by ID & Design International, it features an expansive amenity level known as Cloud 9, with a resort style pool, spa, firepit lounges, co working spaces, theater and guest suites. It is within walking distance of galleries, theaters, waterfront parks, the pier and bayfront dining and entertainment.
Reflection, an 18 story condominium at 777 3rd Avenue North, with 88 residences, has topped out and many units are already under contract or sold. Its rooftop amenity deck
includes a pool, spa, fitness space and shared outdoor kitchen, for buyers seeking contemporary urban living near Mirror Lake.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Sky St. Pete is a 20 story luxury residential tower rising in the EDGE District with approximately 230 units. The building offers a rooftop pool and sky lounge, fitness facilities and penthouse residences, appealing to buyers seeking modern urban living with upscale amenities. Its location provides convenient access to downtown dining and the waterfront.
APPROVED / PLANNED
Waldorf Astoria Residences St. Petersburg is poised to be one of the city’s most prestigious addresses. Now approved and moving through permitting, this 50-story, 539-foot Waldorf Astoria-branded condominium will include 163 residences and five-star service. A penthouse at the project set a record $27 million sale, underscoring strong demand for branded luxury living. It is expected to become the city’s tallest tower.
The Cade is emerging along Mirror Lake with just 15 upscale residences in a mid-rise setting anchored by the restoration of
the historic lakefront Cade Allen home. This project offers a more intimate urban environment, appealing to buyers who want a blend of classic architecture and modern amenities.
Corey Landing in St. Pete Beach has moved forward with approval for two eight-story buildings featuring 133 luxury condos, retail space, a public waterfront park and marina slips, reconnecting the beachside neighborhood with the water.
Roche Bobois Residences is a 29-story, 165-unit luxury condominium at 332 344 4th Street South, which is expected to be completed in 2028. Developed by Valor Capital in collaboration with the Paris-based furniture brand Roche Bobois, the building offers studio-to-penthouse layouts. Amenities include a 5th-floor pool deck and close proximity to the University Village retail plaza.
With the city now anchored by multiple prestige projects and more underway, St. Pete is firmly cementing its place as a vibrant urban coastal market.
“Whether you want big-city amenities, waterfront views or boutique exclusivity, there’s a building tailored to your lifestyle,” an insider offers. “That hasn’t always been the case here.”
Ali Banisadr:
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FLAVOR A Life Full Of
AS EXECUTIVE CHEF AND PARTNER OF PARKSHORE GRILL, A BEACH DRIVE FAVORITE SINCE 2006, TYSON GRANT, A THIRD-GENERATION “BURGER,” LEADS WITH PREMIUM INGREDIENTS, SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD AND LOCALLY SOURCED PRODUCE, CREATING APPROACHABLE DISHES THAT LET QUALITY AND FLAVOR SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES.
Photography by Steven Le, Thee Photo Ninja
The Parkshore Grill’s prime location on Beach Drive and enduring appeal as a distinctive culinary environment have made it a perennial favorite among locals and an enticing draw for visitors. With the trusted appeal of an old friend and a tradition of exceptional quality, it maintains a steady presence that speaks to its longevity. This year marks the restaurant’s 20th anniversary. It’s woven into downtown St. Pete’s daily life so seamlessly that for many locals who prefer conversation over commotion, it’s the default answer. The table you book without
overthinking. The bar seat you gravitate toward after a long day. It’s cozy without being cramped, polished without feeling precious. There’s an ease to the space—a hum rather than a buzz. Staff move with quiet confidence.
Out on the patio, the energy shifts just enough. The outside tables are among the best vantage points downtown. You can watch the evening unfold: people drifting past toward the pier, couples leisurely strolling along, the sky softening over the marina. It’s people watching at its most civilized. With a glass of wine in hand, a breeze off the bay
and dinner arriving at an unhurried pace, the patio at Parkshore feels like an oasis where natural elements converge.
The eatery’s menu offers a sophisticated take on contemporary American cooking with subtle global touches, but nothing feels forced. A steak arrives perfectly prepared to your liking, properly rested and deeply flavored. Fish dishes are clean and bright, accompanied by sides that make sense rather than compete. Starters are familiar enough to be comforting yet refined enough to feel considered. The cuisine is designed for balance more than bravado. The bustling kitchen is a victory garden of the best ingredients and the staff handles them with care.
At the center of it all is Chef Tyson Grant, whose presence has shaped the restaurant with a steady hand since the start. Grant’s style mirrors the space—familiar, solid
and lacking in pretense. He built his reputation in Tampa Bay and rooted himself here. His philosophy is grounded in quality and restraint. The sourcing is thoughtful—fresh Gulf seafood, premium cuts of beef and produce that reflects the season.
Over the years, Grant has earned recognition that underscores this consistency. Awards like Florida Trend’s Golden Spoon and Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence have found their way to Parkshore through repeated seasons of sustained quality, and Grant himself has been recognized as one of the Best Chefs in Tampa Bay.
Growing up in St. Pete’s Allendale neighborhood, Grant found his calling in the kitchen at a young age. He remembers that formative time with his mother in the kitchen, which was a big part of what led him to develop an interest in cooking.
“I never really was into the news, current events or anything like that. But that was what my brother and father enjoyed watching,” he recalls. “So instead of hanging out with them I would go help my mom in the kitchen. I was more interested in that.”
He credits his first job for propelling him further along the culinary path and helping him develop both his technical skills and a deep appreciation for fresh ingredients.
“At first, I was washing dishes at Fancy's Gourmet Market. The Olson family gave me a shot. Then I started hanging out with the butchers and I learned how to cut meat. I learned to butcher meat before I learned how to cook it,” he explains. “After a while, I got into the catering side of it. I was learning about all the different cheeses and wines and I never looked back. I thought, Man, this is cool. I enjoyed the back of the house thing.”
His passion for food quickly became a clear career path.
“Working with food never stressed me out. It was always fun. And then I started making recipes for my buddies in high school and they started really getting into it. I
was making food at home and getting good feedback,” he explains. “So it was that immediate gratification on what you're doing that felt good to me.”
Grant moved away several times to learn more about regional and island cuisine in Washington, D.C., and Turks & Caicos, but always returned to St. Pete to be near his family.
Once back, he distinguished himself by working at local bistros that offered him the creativity to develop his own menus and sharpen his skills. Afterward, he won acclaim at The Grill at Feather Sound in Clearwater, where his vision for contemporizing American cuisine won him the award for Best Chef of Tampa Bay in 2001. He also led the kitchen at O'Bistro, a local favorite known for its straightforward flavors and innovation.
But he wanted to be in downtown St. Pete and one day saw a little something in the paper about Steve Westphal developing a restaurant there, so he reached out.
“He was an old school restaurant guy, and he wanted to open a fine dining, chef-driven restaurant,” Grant recalls. “He said, ‘I just want two things on the menu. I want a sliced filet mignon with onions, mushrooms and mashed potatoes and I want a Beef Wellington. Other than that, the menu is yours.’ It was the same vision, so I was like, ‘Yeah, that's what I'm looking for. Let's go.’”
The pair quickly established Parkshore Grill as downtown St. Pete's premier dining destination.
Over the years, that early enthusiasm for cooking has only grown. Grant continues to create new menus for dinners that allow him to explore ingredients, techniques and flavor combinations.
“The chef’s tables and seasonal dinners provide an opportunity for experimentation and creativity. I'll do a five-course tasting. I’ll work with my sous chefs on different features and different techniques,” he shares. “The guys in the kitchen like to do it. Every month we do a different wine or bourbon dinner.”
Grant is equally committed to maintaining consistent favorites on the menu, ensuring that signature items remain available for its longtime patrons who come regularly for something like the Beef Wellington.
“The Surf and Turf is a new one, but the filet and the lobster pasta have been on the menu since day one. It's what people want and it's consistent,” Grant offers. “I wanted to do a perfect lobster roll, but I don't want to serve an actual lobster roll. So, I created a deconstructed version.”
Grant’s approach is to always work with the best quality ingredients and sustainable items.
“I’m a believer that we should be stewards of clean and healthy foods. When we opened this restaurant, I wanted to find the best meat I could. We started working with Niman Ranch and ended up becoming an ambassador for them,” he explains. “We work with local farms. I want the best. I mean, it's impossible for us to do all 100-percent organic and all from small family farms, because we're a large restaurant. But we try to do it right and keep it fresh and make everything in-house.”
He is also deeply invested in giving back. Grant partners with local charity events like The Longest Table, an annual benefit dinner and fundraiser hosted by WUSF, and is a co-founder of the Frogman Feast, a high-profile culinary event benefiting the Navy SEAL Foundation. He also represents St. Pete in culinary festivals that illuminate the city’s taste identity on larger stages. Such visibility bolsters not only his reputation but reinforces Parkshore’s connection to the community it serves.
Visit parkshoregrill.com to learn more.
EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT COUNTERTOP MATERIALS
By Doug King
When it comes to building materials used in your home, have you ever wondered exactly what they are made from or how they are made? This article will cover an item found in every home, countertops. Although there are many products used for countertops, I will include the most popular materials being used in our area because their formation is unique and interesting.
Granite – a natural stone material, formed by the cooling and solidification of silica-rich magma, over millions of years due to volcanic activity. This typically occurs where tectonic plates are converging since high heat and pressure are needed for this natural process to occur. Granite is made up of quartz, feldspar and mica. Blocks are cut right out of the earth, usually the side of a mountain, then sliced into slabs and delivered by truck and ships all over the world to distributors, who sell to fabricators. Fabricators are the companies that custom cut, polish and install countertops into our homes. The beauty of most granite is that no two countertops are the same because of the “veining” created by random movement of the magma. Finishes range from a high-gloss polish to a textured matte, using diamond tipped brushes to create a “leathered finish”. A sealer should be applied to all granite materials to protect the stone from stains.
Quartz – a natural mineral that by itself, would be too brittle to use as a countertop (or most anything requiring structural support). Quartz forms from either magma cooling in igneous rocks or in environments with geothermal waters which are a complex mineral-rich fluid that includes silica, chloride, sodium, calcium and sulfate, among others. Again, this occurs over millions of years. It is mined mostly from open-pits, using bulldozers and backhoes to expose the veins and explosives underground to reduce damaging the crystals during surface extraction. Countertops are made with crushed quartz crystals, combined with resins (polymers) and pigments (for color) that are formed under heat and vacuum compression. The result is a consistent visual pattern, not found in granite. Quartz is non-porous, making it highly resistant to stains like coffee, wine, lemon juice, olive oil and vinegar and does not require sealers. There are many brand names that make quartz slabs.
Marble – Another natural occurring stone that forms from limestone (made up of millions of years of marine organism’s shells and skeletons) that goes thru metamorphism and then recrystallization. This two-step natural process comes from tectonic plate movement that forces limestone deep into the earth, where nearby volcanic magma provides the heat that, along with extreme pressure, makes the limestone rock pliable. As the limestone cools, it recrystallizes, destroying the original fossils and bedding layers. Unlike granite and quartz, no explosives are used to mine marble, whether from underground or surface quarries. Large 15,000-pound blocks are cut from the bedrock, using diamond tipped wire saws. The blocks are shipped to factories that slice and polish the block, ready for shipping to distributors all over the world. Marble is very porous and is subject to etching and staining by everyday acidic products and for that reason, is seldom used in kitchens, (unless sealed and constant maintenance steps are taken). Marble is widely used in bathrooms (countertops and shower walls), as windowsills, decorative wall cladding and flooring. There are many other uses outside of the home such as statues, monuments and landscaping accents.
Quartzite – A nice 3rd choice for a 100% natural stone material. Not to be confused with quartz, quartzite is a non-foliated metamorphic rock formed from heat and pressure of quartz-rich sandstone. The sand grains melt and then recrystallize, eliminating the pore spaces between the sand grains, creating a very dense rock. Again, this occurs along tectonic regions. Quartzite is mined with a very similar process to marble, cutting large blocks from open-pit mines. It is a very hard material, harder than glass and steel knives and is tougher than granite. It is highly durable and resistant to scratching and etching from acids, but sealing is still recommended, especially when being used as kitchen countertops.
NOTE:
Heat - While all of the aforementioned countertops are heat resistant, it is still recommended to use cork trivets or metal hot pads, especially for quartz. Granite, marble and quartzite are more heat resistant but are still at risk for damage from extreme, quick temperature changes. It is ok to set a cup of coffee on any of these but a dish right out of the oven could cause cracking if a barrier of some sort isn’t used.
Costs – A decision on countertop materials is usually based on the color and aesthetics of the material. Common colors of granite, meaning they are widely available, are going to be the lowest cost of the four materials noted above. But rare granite colors, especially ones with blues, can cost as much as the lower to mid-priced quartz, marble and quartzite products.
Fabrication – Shops use a variety of methods for cutting and shaping these products into our counter tops such as lasers, diamond-tipped saw blades, using CNC machinery or water-jets. Abrasive diamond pads and polishing powders such as tin oxide and silicone carbide or creams, that are applied with felt pads, provide the high gloss or matte finish options. All of that work, combined with magnificent acts of Mother Nature, give us many options for product choices we enjoy in our homes.
EXPERT INSIDERS
Our lives are enriched by the knowledge and dedication of professionals who bring their expertise and assistance to the many facets of our daily lives.
In this promotional section, local experts across a range of fields offer their perspectives and insights. Together, they provide an invaluable resource for readers seeking guidance, inspiration and trusted care in the areas that matter most.
DR. THOMAS LAMBERT
Optometrist
VIP Eye Care & Optical Boutiques
Orthokeratology Lenses: Changing Your Child’s Vision and Their Future
Myopia, or near-sightedness, is rapidly increasing worldwide, especially among children. Genetics and lifestyle both contribute—children are three to six times more likely to develop myopia if one or both parents are nearsighted, and increased screen time, higher reading demands, and reduced outdoor activity further elevate this risk. Because children’s prescriptions typically worsen during adolescence, early intervention at any degree of myopia is essential. While glasses and standard contact lenses help a child see clearly, they do not address the underlying problem—the elongation of the eye that causes progressive near-sightedness.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) uses a specially designed hard contact lens to gently reshape the front surface of the eye during sleep. This creates a controlled optical effect that focuses peripheral light in a way that signals the eye to slow its growth. At VIP Eye Care, we fit Abiliti™ Ortho-K lenses, which are FDA-approved for myopia management and suitable for children as young as eight, with earlier fitting possible in select cases. By addressing the root cause of progression, the lenses provide clear, glasses-free daytime vision while also helping reduce long-term risks associated with higher levels of myopia, including glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, and myopic maculopathy.
Although Ortho-K is widely recognized for its benefits in slowing myopia progression in children, adults can also benefit from this treatment. Many adults choose Ortho-K for the convenience of clear daytime vision without relying on glasses or daytime contact lenses—especially those with active lifestyles. While Ortho-K does not slow myopia progression in adults the way it does in children, it remains a safe, non-surgical option for achieving functional vision throughout the day.
Ortho-K lenses give children clear daytime vision without the need to wear contact lenses during school, sports, or other activities—making them an excellent option for active lifestyles. If your child has begun to show signs of nearsightedness, or if you’re concerned they may be at risk, a myopia-control consultation can help determine whether orthokeratology is the best option. Early action can make a significant difference—not just in how your child sees today, but also in protecting their eye health for years to come.
JMC Center-Old N.E.
2201 4th Street N. Suite A St. Pete, FL 33704
Roosevelt Lakes-Carillon
12425 28th St. N. Suite 103 St. Pete, FL 33716
vip4myeyes.com
SUSANNE VAN SELOW
President & Owner
Van Selow Design Build, LLC
Navigating St. Petersburg’s FEMA 49% Rule
If you own a home in St. Petersburg—especially in a flood zone—you may have heard of the FEMA 49% Rule. This regulation applies when the cost of repairs or improvements equals 49% or more of the structure’s market value, excluding land.
When a project reaches that threshold, the City of St. Petersburg classifies it as a substantial improvement, requiring the entire home to be brought into compliance with current floodplain and building codes. This can include elevating the structure above base flood elevation, adding flood vents, and using flood-resistant materials—changes that can significantly impact budget and design.
The rule applies not only after storm damage, but also to remodels, additions, and renovations completed over time. All permitted construction costs are counted, which is why careful planning is essential.
The best way to work successfully with the city is to start early. Meet with your contractor, understand your home’s structure value and review flood zone requirements before finalizing plans.
Partnering with a design-build firm experienced in St. Petersburg’s permitting process can help homeowners stay compliant, manage costs and move projects forward with confidence.
FRED PALMER
President / CEO
Stemedix
Regenerative therapy offers more than temporary relief— it helps the body repair itself and is ideal for patients who want to address the underlying causes of pain and inflammation rather than relying solely on symptom management. These therapies are designed to support the body’s natural healing response by reducing inflammatory activity, encouraging tissue repair and improving functional movement.
People most often turn to regenerative care for conditions like osteoarthritis, joint pain, spine or disc issues, soft tissue injuries and chronic inflammation. Many seek these therapies after other options haven’t worked and want to explore alternatives to surgery. Minimally invasive joint treatments, especially for the knees, hips, shoulders and spine, can help reduce discomfort and improve mobility while keeping recovery time manageable.
The key to success is a personalized approach. No two patients are alike, and regenerative therapies are tailored based on your specific condition, test results and overall health. Working alongside your primary doctor or specialist can also make a difference, ensuring any new therapy fits seamlessly with your current care plan.
Hormone balance can play a big role in how you feel every day. Age, stress and metabolic changes can leave both men and women with low energy, poor sleep, mood shifts and decreased strength. Lab-guided therapy and ongoing monitoring help restore balance safely and effectively, so your energy and overall well-being can improve naturally. Weight management is another area where a guided, practical approach matters. Programs that focus on metabolism, nutrition and sustainable lifestyle changes—not just the scale—tend to produce better long-term results. When needed, prescription support can complement these strategies to promote long-term success.
Ultimately, the goal of regenerative and wellness care is simple: improving daily function, supporting long-term health and helping patients maintain active, independent lifestyles. If you are curious about how it works, explore our educational videos and patient experience stories on Stemedix’s digital platforms, including Instagram, which provide practical insight into treatment and recovery.
Together, we make a difference
YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg’s Power Up For Health is a vibrant, one-day fundraising event that brings our community together to move, connect and create lasting impact. Formerly known as the Spin-A-Rama Ride for Hope, this revitalized event is all about action, connection and transforming lives.
Imagine a day filled with momentum: participants cycling with purpose, building strength in an energizing LES MILLS™ BODYPUMP class, or finding renewal through gentle yoga. Whether participating, forming a team, donating, sponsoring, or cheering from the sidelines, all involvement helps expand access to the benefiting Community Health Programs. Visit stpeteymca.org/
THANK
BENEFITING PROGRAMS
LIVESTRONG® AT THE YMCA CANCER PROGRAM
Research-based program designed to help cancer survivors achieve their holistic health goals
YMCA DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM
58% of all new cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented through programs like this
TOTAL PARKINSON’S PROGRAM
A national wellness program designed by leading Parkinson’s fitness specialists
GRANITE GIRL
Helping you put down roots in Florida’s Tampa Bay area
Southern Roots Realty is a boutique firm with five generations of experience in St. Pete and Tampa Bay, specializing in unique, mid-century, and historic homes. From the Gulf Beaches to downtown, we offer white-glove service to help you find your perfect home or getaway
Saltaire Old Northeast Treasure Island Snell Isle
Full Bloom
Lyrical lady and botanical artist June Bunch is a wellspring of inspiration and inventiveness. Nanette Wiser explores her garden of creativity.
June Bunch is a sensual sprite, a joyful spirit, a musician with a ukulele and an accomplished artist. She embodies all these personas with kindness as her superpower. This spring, her art will bloom in an upcoming show at The Morean Arts Center, where she also works as a graphic designer and special events coordinator.
Funded by the Gobioff Foundation, her solo exhibition State Flower Ladies will be on exhibit at downtown St. Pete’s Morean Arts Center from April 3rd through May 2nd, with an opening reception on April 11th. The show features giclee canvases printed and stretched on embroi dery hoops, adorned with hand embellishments and arranged in an alphabetic grid. Guests can scan a QR code to get information on each bloom’s symbolism, mythology and cultural significance.
The exhibit will feature all 50 state flowers, along with stories behind each flower's cultural symbolism and lore. The works blend botanical illustrations with spirited figure drawings, "humanizing flora's choreography of growth,” Bunch offers. “My visual art is rooted in botany and ballet, focusing on the interplay of mother nature and womanhood in a bold, empowering way.”
Movement, movement, movement, it's all about creating colorful vitality in a paused piece of space. I love a good story.”
The works start as expressive figure and botanical sketches, which are then translated digitally, refined with a pen tool, and finally enhanced through embroidery and embellishment on canvas.
Each piece is accompanied by a captivating and poetic description. As a San Diego girl, I was drawn to her musings on California’s vibrant state flower.
“This symbolizes peace, sleep and resilience,” she writes. “The California Poppy is a cup of golden petals which opens and closes mirroring the sunlight’s intensity, closing fully to go to sleep after sunset. Their feathery hues ripple through wild fields, creating a peaceful yellow glow that stops a viewer in their tracks. These blossoms were long used as medicine for indigenous communities and are no doubt an elixir for the eyes to come upon.”
Bunch explains that the flower ladies are the soul of her artistic vision.
“I aim to encapsulate a journey in a visual moment, and a dancing illustration can do that. Dancers are so in tune with their body language that they can relay story arcs. Even when they are drawn midflight. You imagine their landing. I illuminate their dance with vibrant colors and clean lines,” she shares. “Let me use that to convey a story that takes longer. Let me use that to share the patient movements of nature, where the dancer's movement weaves into a represented plant to help create its story arc and its unique choreography.
This collection is the second in an ongoing exploration of classical figure drawings blended with lush botanicals that celebrate form and movement. In 2024, she created a birth month series and is working on a new set of astrological-themed illustrations.
When describing our own fragrant state flower that perfumes the environment of Central and South Florida, she explains the powerful perceptions that have given this international bloom its historic appeal.
“Florida’s orange blossom symbolizes purity and prosperity. Orange blossoms are small, dainty things that blossom at the same time as they bear fruit. They were long enjoyed by ancient Chinese brides who wore orange blossoms to represent both their purity and their fertility. When Queen Victo-
ria adorned her veil with the traditional flowers, she brought them into Western vogue, keeping them in popular demand for generations to come.”
Bunch grew up in St. Pete, where a love of art ran deep in her family.
“I've always seen myself as an artist. My dad raised my sister and I with a paper and pen to entertain ourselves. ‘Just draw what you see,’ he would say,” she recalls. “He was a painter and always encouraged creativity.”
A self-taught artist, Bunch borrowed art books from the library and studied the greats.
“I was inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe, Erté (Romain de Tirtoff), Alphonse Mucha, Henri Matisse and Antoni Gaudí,” she says. “I did take a summer art class or two on color theory and painting, but most of what I do comes from observing.”
She went to college in Asheville, North Carolina, and after a decade of living there, playing music and doing her art, she spent time in such states as North Carolina, Montana, Hawaii, Utah and Alaska before landing back 'in the Burg' for good.
While her appreciation for flowers began in Florida, the botanical bug bit hard during her travels.
“I worked at a plant nursery in Winter Haven in 2021 for a year before moving to Juneau, Alaska, where I took a naturalist job and fell in love with how the plants grew on the trails,” she recalls. “I trekked each day. I'd never been so close to nature. I commuted by bike and guided people on the trails every day for work. Rain or shine, I soaked it up and felt more at home in the seasons than ever before. It changed how I
looked at mother nature and there were no words for it, so I tried to capture that essence by humanizing it into dancers.”
But it is not just her art that revolves around nature. That same creative inspiration extends into her music as well. Many of her songs are inspired by natural settings and her narrative style lends itself to distinctive storytelling.
Bunch laughs when asked which came first, art or music.
“Both. Forever. Consider them languages,” she offers. “I'm trilingual and need words, music and visual art to explain anything with any real clarity.”
Influenced by Joni Mitchell, Nina Simone and Adrianne Lenker, she began pursuing her musical aspirations as a street performer in Asheville around 2013, writing and performing her own songs. She quickly built a sidewalk following and eventually incorporated accompaniment, carving out her own unique chronicles through song.
“I carried a dictionary for songs, so I could flip through it for inspiration when words escaped me,” she says of her process. “Every good song lyric was in there, just not in order, but I always found a good one. During quarantine, I learned how to record them.”
If you want to experience the artist’s full bouquet of talents, mark your calendar for April 23rd from 5:30 to 7pm for her gallery talk about the exhibit and a mini concert at the Morean. You can also catch her at St. Pete’s Pistil House, Tampa’s Blooming Floral Café and Gulfport’s Wine House.
Visit junebunch.com to learn more.
Colorado: Columbine with Ballet Shoes
Maryland: Black-Eyed Susan
SOY & SASS
A St. Pete small business is ready for its close-up.
“From cozy corners to statement spaces, our There’s No Place Like Florida candle was made to look and smell amazing in every room of your home,” Charlotte and Nick Tribe, the owners of Soy & Sass explain. “Crafted to represent the state fruit of Florida—the orange—filling the air with zesty orange blossoms and sugared citrus…creating a lively, sun-soaked fragrance.”
By Alex Davis
It is one of 50 state-themed candles that celebrate the uniqueness and distinctive scents that the couple believe speak to each area’s essence. In the case of New York, for instance, they are juicy apple, cinnamon and pumpkin, representing everything from the Big Apple’s iconic skyscrapers to the natural beauty of Niagara Falls. That candle is also about to make a co-starring appearance in one of the year’s most anticipated films, The Devil Wears Prada 2, which opens May 1st. The film marks the return of Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Stanley Tucci and Emily Blunt in their iconic roles and gives this local company its Hollywood debut.
So how did the homegrown non-toxic soy candles and reed diffusers brand, which launched in 2021, get its big break?
“The opportunity came about when the film’s set decorator discovered our There’s No Place Like New York candle online,” Charlotte recalls. “They reached out to let us know they wanted to include them in a scene set in a New York market, which was incredibly exciting for us as a small, independent brand. From there, the conversation quickly expanded. They were also interested in featuring additional designs in the market stall, including our Boss Lady candle—which felt very fitting. We had the call to discuss the details, and the candles were shipped the following morning. They also asked for guidance on how a market
stall should be styled to look genuine. Our experience at local markets in St. Pete has proved invaluable. We were able to share photos from past events to help inspire the set design and make the scene feel as realistic as possible. It's a surreal and proud moment to have our real-world market experience and products come together in such an iconic film setting.” With a background in marketing, Charlotte leads the creative side, handling new candle concepts, photography, the website and brand storytelling. Nick manages the logistics, production and business operations.
“I’ve always had a strong interest in art and design. Living in St. Pete has only amplified that. The city’s vibrant art scene and creative energy are a constant source of inspiration. Being part of the community also plays a big role in shaping our products. Trading at markets allows us to speak directly with customers, hear their stories and understand the moments they’re shopping for. Many of our designs are born from those conversations. For example, our recent Book Club candle was inspired by a chat with a customer at Localtopia. Those real-life interactions often spark the ideas that become some of our most-loved products.”
The enterprising couple say their brand grew out of a gap they observed in the market.
“So many candles on the market were either aesthetically pleasing but filled with cheap, questionable materials or ‘natural’ but lacking the design and personality that make a gift feel special, so we set out to change that,” Nick shares. “Our vision was to create a candle for every occasion—birthdays, new homes, celebrations, zodiac signs and everything in between—that looked beautiful, smelled
incredible and elevated a home…candles that would make someone swoon when they opened them, but were also made from clean, non-toxic ingredients.”
Those ingredients are a key element of their brand identity.
“We’re extremely intentional about how and where we source every material that goes into our candles,” Nick asserts. “We only work with US–based suppliers for everything from our premium soy wax and essential-oil fragrance blends to our cotton wicks and vessels. Candle making, especially with soy wax, is far more of a science than most people realize. It’s often believed to have a weaker scent throw compared to paraffin alternatives. We’ve spent years perfecting our formulations to prove that does not have to be the case. Our candles don’t just burn cleanly, they genuinely fill a room with beautiful, lasting fragrance. It’s something our customers consistently notice and comment on.
In 2022, we moved to St. Pete and set up our first tiny workshop. We quickly outgrew the space, as demand grew online. Today we operate from larger premises just off Central Avenue where we hand-pour around a thousand candles each week.”
Since launching, they have sold over 500,000 units and their candles are stocked in more than 75 stores nationwide.
“We’re fortunate to have thousands of five-star reviews, particularly on Amazon, but it’s the personal stories behind the reviews that really resonate with us,” Charlotte shares. “Hearing that a simple candle became a treasured gift or a memorable moment for someone is incredibly rewarding.”
Some of their other notable scents that nod to our area include I’d Rather Be In St. Pete, Coastal Nights and Teakwood & Tobacco.
“St. Petersburg doesn’t just influence our creativity,” Charlotte offers. “It’s woven into the fabric of how we design, connect and grow as a brand.”
Visit soyandsass.com to learn more.
Global Warming
Nanette Wiser discovers international heat at the St. Petersburg Jazz Festival.
Whether he’s conducting The Helios Jazz Orchestra or blissfully playing Brazilian jazz with the O Som Do Jazz sextet, St. Petersburg College (SPC) music professor David Manson is a cool cat. He can wail on a trombone or coax honeyed tones from singers like world-famous Alexis Cole. He is also driving force behind the St. Petersburg Jazz Festival, which he founded in 2008. You’ll have an opportunity to check him out for yourself from April 8th through the 11th, when the 2026 festival takes place at the Warehouse Arts District’s (WADA) ArtsXChange Stage in downtown St. Pete, presented by Manson’s nonprofit EMIT in collaboration with WADA.
The highly anticipated program brings four evenings of great jazz to St. Pete, featuring performances by Cole with Manson’s Helios Jazz Orchestra, the Johnbern Thomas Quintet, Randy Bordon Trio, Hot Club SRQ, Austrian-born pianist and Steinway Artist Markus Gottschlich and his trio (who is also the executive director of WADA), Martin Bejerano performing original music influenced by his Cuban and American roots with his trio and special guest Dafnis Prieto with the Downtown Trio Plus One.
Manson explains that he is particularly excited about this year’s line-up.
“Alexis has the perfect voice for big band and she has been all over the world. Helios Jazz Orchestra is an ensemble in its
17th year, featuring the top players in the Tampa Bay area. Johnbern Thomas is a Haitian drummer and composer and has a wonderful group in Orlando and it’s a multicultural sound,” Manson offers. “For a distinctive European flavor of jazz, Markus is a fantastic pianist and composer. His music is rich in harmonic content and very communicative.”
The St. Petersburg Jazz Festival’s appeal is somewhat different than the other local jazz festivals, Manson offers.
“We enjoy presenting adventurous music that is not so commercial,” he asserts. “I love mainstream jazz and swing music, but we like to showcase music that is not as wellknown from Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa, even Django Reinhardt gypsy-style jazz. In the past years, we’ve been multi-venue, but this year all four evening concerts will be at WADA’s outdoor stage. People can dance, admire the stars and enjoy the fabulous spring weather.”
In addition to the concerts, SPC will host two workshops free for festival attendees. Cole will offer jazz vocal tips on April 7th at 11am and Thomas will demonstrate unique Haitian rhythms for SPC students in the Music Industry Recording Arts (MIRA) degree program and anyone else who wants to attend on April 9th at 12:30pm.
Visit stpetejazzfest.com to learn more.
CRUISE CONTROL
First sold in the United States in 1958, the Land Cruiser has long been a cornerstone of Toyota’s off-road legacy. Nitish S. Rele explores the evolution of the brand’s most storied model.
Who doesn’t like to experience the best of both worlds? Last year, I had the opportunity to sit behind the wheel of the 2025 Land Cruiser 1958, a throwback to the good old days with modern-day high-tech comforts, sophistication and styling. Toyota also released a second version without the 1958 label, and it is this model that we tested. It is equally proficient offroad and all-terrain worthy, offering the same level of rugged performance as its retro-inspired sibling.
Under the hood, the tested Land Cruiser is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine that produces 326 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and delivers a formidable 465 pound-feet of torque as low as 1,700 rpm.
Toyota’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid system pairs that engine with a 1.87-kWh battery and a 48-horsepower electric motor, creating a drivetrain that operates smoothly and quietly, contributing to a driving experience that is surprisingly refined.
Specifications
Tires: 265/70R18
Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
Length: 193.8 inches
Width: 77.9 inches
headlights flank Toyota’s heritage grille, giving the front end a clean, confident appearance, while Rigid Industries LED fog lamps underscore its off-road intentions. Front skid plates protect the engine, transmission and transfer case, offering a practical touch for drivers venturing beyond paved roads. Standard equipment is comprehensive and thoughtfully selected. Dual front and side-curtain airbags are complemented by four-wheel antilock brakes, stability control and active traction and hill-assist systems. Fulltime four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case comes standard, along with electronic locking rear and center differentials. Multi-terrain select and multi-terrain monitor enhance control and visibility when surfaces deteriorate.
Height: 76.1 inches
Weight: 5,038 pounds
Fuel capacity: 17.9 gallons
Mileage: city 22 / highway 25 / combined 23
Road and surface imperfections are well managed, thanks to an independent double-wishbone front suspension with coil springs and a rear leaf-spring setup designed to balance ride comfort with trail readiness. The electric power rack-and-pinion steering is precise, with a reassuring on-center feel. Towing capacity is an impressive 6,000 pounds, which makes hauling a sailboat effortless.
That the Toyota Land Cruiser retains its familiar boxy profile is no surprise, but rather than leaning heavily on nostalgia like the 1958 model with its round LED lamps, our test vehicle embraces a more modern look. Rectangular triple
The driver-assist technology is well integrated rather than overwhelming. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, daytime running lights and a tire-pressure monitoring system operate quietly in the background, while Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 adds a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-trace assist with steering support and dynamic radar cruise control.
While pricier than the 1958 edition, this contemporary Land Cruiser can go anywhere, whether cruising the highway or conquering rugged terrain. Its numerous modern features make it a best buy in our eyes.
Nitish S. Rele, the editor/publisher of Motoring Tampa Bay and Khaas Baat, can be reached at motoringtampabay@gmail.com
RETIREMENT BY DESIGN
Live it up, pursue a passion or give back. Sean Goodrich shares smart moves to make the most of your retirement.
Retirement isn’t a finish line. It’s a pivot point. For many, it marks the first time in decades when time, financial flexibility and personal clarity finally align. The question isn’t whether you can afford to enjoy these years—it’s how to do it thoughtfully, without sacrificing long-term security or personal purpose.
Early retirement years are a phase of life where you have the time, money, energy and self-assurance to do the things you always wanted—buy your dream car, renovate the kitchen or even camp under the aurora borealis. Before making big purchases, it helps to map out what “living well” actually means. For some, that may mean frequent travel. For others, it may mean providing for family or starting a new venture.
BACK IN BUSINESS
Many retirees discover they don’t want to stop working entirely. Maybe you spent your career in engineering, but your true interest is ceramics. Now, you have the time and resources to open the pottery workshop you’ve always dreamed of. The economics of owning a small business may be a little different in retirement. The tangential benefits— like having a place to focus your energy and the daily structure it provides—may matter as much as, if not more than, the profit. It can also provide a hands-on business education for your children or grandchildren.
But even a small enterprise needs diligent business planning. Be aware of your exposure to liabilities, protect your personal interests and don’t let this venture’s obligations
compromise your other goals. Setting a clear budget limit for what you’re willing to invest, keeping business finances separate from personal savings, protecting personal assets through appropriate insurance and legal structure, and deciding up front whether the goal is income, enjoyment or legacy-building can help keep these projects fulfilling rather than financially stressful.
FAMILY MATTERS
Providing for your children and grandchildren is one of the most meaningful uses of retirement wealth, but it requires intention. You can choose to give them money directly (though there may be tax considerations), strategically build what will become their portfolio, establish a 529 education savings fund, buy them a starter home or make an investment in their business with documented expectations.
Recognizing that money changes relationships, “family governance” is important. This may include bylaws for the family’s financial decision-making or vehicles like trusts to set expectations and provide transparency and assurance. Candid conversations with your children and grandchildren about the family’s wealth and what they may expect can be awkward, but being open will help keep your relationships strong.
PAYING IT FORWARD
Philanthropy provides an opportunity to help others and improve your community. It also presents an opportunity to share your values with family members by involving them in your giving decisions—whether you plan to write a check, volunteer your talents, create a trust or a private foundation. Align your philanthropy with your financial plan and tax strategies to help you extend the reach of your giving. These types of decisions may change your financial plan, and that’s OK—if you plan for it. Writing these priorities down creates clarity and helps prevent impulsive spending that doesn’t align with long-term goals. It is also useful to separate one-time lifestyle upgrades, such as renovations or milestone trips, from ongoing lifestyle expenses like annual travel habits or club memberships, since recurring costs have a much greater long-term impact.
However you decide to spend your retirement years, remember that it’s not just about financial security. It’s about fulfillment, purpose and joy. Whether you're enjoying the sunset views along the local waterfront, building a new enterprise or traveling the world, these years should reflect the life you’ve worked hard to build.
Sean Goodrich is a CFP® with Goodrich Wealth Planning. He can be reached at sean.goodrich@raymondjames.com.
Kathryn Bowden
THE STRESS EPIDEMIC
From everyday demands to national and global challenges, stress has become an inescapable part of modern life. Susan Smiley-Height talks with clinical psychologist Dr. Jonathan Mitchell to explore the effects of living under prolonged stress and strategies for finding more peace in our daily lives.
Of the world’s 8.3 billion people, more than 1 billion are living with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, while there are only 13 mental health workers for every 100,000 people, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Mental health problems are widespread across every society and age group and place a heavy toll on individuals, families and economies.
The U.S. stress epidemic has been shaped by the aftermath of the 2020 pandemic, financial strain, political volatility, racial disparity, social anxiety and a sense of uncertainty about what lies ahead. Pinellas County and much of Florida’s Gulf Coast have experienced the added stress of dealing with the aftermath of the 2024 hurricanes that severely impacted the region. Studies released in 2024 and 2025 also found that Pinellas County residents faced significant stress from financial pressures and a shortage of mental health resources.
Dr. Jonathan Mitchell is a clinical psychologist with Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health in St. Petersburg whose approach is geared toward helping patients build effective and sustainable strategies for health promotion, disease prevention and chronic illness self-management. He spoke with us about today’s challenges and how our bodies respond to stress.
“Our national health care system has broadly come up short on mental health care and in Pinellas County not only do we have few reliably available practitioners, but the cost is a barrier for many,” Mitchell shares. “People are struggling, the demands for service are great and the availability issue also translates to long wait times.”
According to the American Psychological Association, approximately 75% of adults in the U.S. report moderate to high levels of stress, with financial concerns, work-related
pressures and health issues being primary contributors. And as news cycles, social media and social hostility keep the nervous system on high alert, many people experience stress as a continuous state rather than in occasional bursts.
So how do we fight back?
We start by paying attention to our own bodies, Mitchell offers.
“There is no way that body biology doesn’t impact our mental health. Everything is happening internally, unfolding in our mind…in our brain. It’s the way we interpret and make sense of the world,” he says. “There are two main systems that dictate this. One is the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which drives cortisol release. It puts our systems on heightened alert. This hormone gets released because it has been helpful in our survival. Our sympathetic nervous system is the way our brain communicates to other parts of our body. This is the main system associated with fight or flight response and plays in concert with the hormonal process. These interacting systems keep us in a state of being able to keep ourselves safe in the face of some kind of threat or demand.”
He points out that, for our ancestors, a realistic threat could have come in the form of a lion or bear hunting them.
“Today it’s the bills we receive, the negative interaction we had with a family member, the demands at work or a global pandemic,” he explains. “It doesn’t matter that they are not as immediately dangerous as the bear or the lion, our body sees the demand and it operates as it always has to keep us safe. And when our biology, our physiology, gets heightened for a long period of time, it gets hard to bring it back down because the brain would prefer survival over peace and calm.”
He explains that the issue many people are dealing with is that their stress is ambient rather than episodic. Ambient stress acts as a chronic, low-level background hum of modern life, driven by digital overload, uncertainty and daily hassles rather than sharp, passing episodes. Unlike acute, episodic stress, which allows for recovery periods, this persistent pressure erodes resilience, contributing to chronic stress, burnout, mental and physical health issues.
“The stressors in our life don’t end. Not in the sense that when I run away from the lion, the lion isn’t a threat anymore. This isn’t the case with our contemporary life. It’s full of demand after demand, and so our body system has to do what it does—which is to stay on high alert.”
One of the reasons we feel stressed, Mitchell asserts, is that we find ourselves in situations where we don’t have direct influence over what is happening around us.
“The uncertainty and lack of control is where we see the stress epidemic. It creates a level of worry, tension and nervousness. When we have that for a long time, our body is broken down by it, we feel depressed and unhappy and we
tend to isolate,” he offers. “I think the solution is to start as close to home as possible by doing things that are fulfilling and meaningful to us, spending time with our loved ones and speaking to ourselves in kind and gentle ways—just trying to do the things we know we can control.”
Mitchell notes that people were not meant to be solitary or live in isolation, which is why forming meaningful connections is an essential part of well-being.
“We created communities, tribes and societies because it helped with our survival. We relied on each other, we sought help, affection and understanding because it made it easier to get by. That’s a big part of it—making sure we are taking care of our social well-being the same way we make sure we take our medicines, go to the doctor, get good sleep, move our bodies or drink water,” he offers. “We live so much of our lives digitally, in spaces where we are not truly connecting, so returning to a place where we come face to face with people and care for ourselves the way we care for others, that’s where the rubber meets the road.”
Intentionally prioritizing your emotional well-being is an important act of self-care and resilience. Navigating today’s health care system can feel overwhelming, but resources are available even when access is challenging. Start by talking with your primary care provider or a mental health specialist to build the support you need to thrive.
To learn more about Dr. Mitchell, visit floridamedicalclinic.com
BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS FOUNDATION
WiTH BROOK BORUP, BUSiNESS STRATEGiST
“You wouldn't build a second story without checking the foundation first— so why are you trying to scale your business on shaky ground?”
Every contractor knows the most important part of any home isn't what you see—it's what's underneath. The foundation determines everything that comes after. Your business works the same way.
I watch business owners chase growth while their foundations crumble. They're adding services, hiring staff and expanding territories, all while basic systems are held together with duct tape and hope. Then they wonder why everything feels so hard.
Here's what a solid business foundation actually requires:
• A finance system that tells you where money goes without three hours of spreadsheet archaeology.
• An operations process that doesn't live exclusively in your head.
• A client management approach that survives when you take a vacation.
• Marketing that runs consistently, not just when you remember.
Think of these as the essential rooms in your business home. You need all of them functional before you can build that second story.
The exciting part? You don't need to construct everything yourself. Just like building a home, you bring in specialists—a fractional CFO for the finance room, a systems expert for operations, a marketing strategist for growth.
Most business collapse isn't from bad ideas. It's from trying to build empires on foundations that were only meant to support a cottage.
Before you chase your next big expansion, ask yourself: is my foundation ready? Can my current systems handle twice the clients, revenue or complexity?
If the honest answer is no, it's time to renovate before you build.
Let's assess your foundation together. Your complimentary call is waiting at meetwithbrook.com.
EDITOR NICK STEELE WITH CHEF AND OWNER THALIA TATHAM OF HOUSE OF VEGANO.
Leading Women
HOUSE OF VEGANO / JANUARY 15
We celebrated the 2026 Leading Women with our incredible sponsors: Compass Land & Title, Justin Vineyards & Winery and House of Vegano at a special VIP event. Photos by Misha Pokusa.
Academy Prep Evening of Dreams
THE JAMES MUSEUM / FEBRUARY 7
This annual gala unites community leaders and friends to celebrate Academy Prep’s scholars, with proceeds benefiting the student scholarship fund. The evening included dinner, cocktails and the presentation of the Dream Maker Award to Christina Noordstar.
A TOUCH OF LUCK AND A LOT OF STYLE
Spring brings a sense of renewal—fresh air, open windows, and a little extra light pouring in. After months of shorter days and quieter mornings, there’s something about this time of year that invites change. The world outside begins to wake up, and so do the spaces we live in. This kitchen captures that same feeling of new beginnings, with a bold shade of green that sets the tone for the season. It’s the kind of color that commands attention without overwhelming the room, striking a balance between statement and subtlety.
The deep, rich cabinetry grounds the space while adding warmth and personality. Green, in this particular shade, feels both unexpected and entirely natural—like something you didn’t know you were missing until it was there. It brings depth to the room without closing it in, creating a sense of dimension that flat neutrals simply cannot achieve. Paired with sleek quartz countertops and brushed metal accents, the result is both modern and timeless.
Stefanie Barrett
Lead Designer at Strobel Design Build
Explore what’s p ossible by visiting strobeldesignbuild.com or giving us a call at 727-321-5588
Natural light from the skylight above brightens every corner, giving the room an effortless glow that feels equal parts fresh and familiar. There’s no need for harsh overhead lighting when the sun does the work, filtering down through the ceiling and illuminating countertops, cabinet faces, and every small detail in between. As the days grow longer, that light lingers a little more each evening, extending the hours spent in this space and making it feel even more welcoming.
Green is often said to bring luck, but here it brings something even better—balance. It bridges the gap between bold design choices and everyday livability, proving that a kitchen can be both visually striking and deeply functional. It’s the perfect backdrop for everyday moments: morning coffee brewed slowly while the house is still quiet, shared meals that bring everyone to the table, and quiet conversations that linger long after the plates are cleared. These are the moments that matter most, and the space they happen in should reflect that.
As the season shifts and everything begins to grow again, this kitchen serves as a reminder that design can be both functional and full of life. A well-considered space doesn’t just look good—it feels good to be in. It supports the rhythms of daily life while also inspiring something a little more. The choice of color, material, and light all work together to create a room that welcomes you in and encourages you to stay.
Here’s to fresh starts, inspired spaces, and a little good fortune along the way. May this season bring with it the same sense of possibility that a room like this embodies—grounded, warm, and ready for whatever comes next.
CARING FOR YOU HOW WE’D CARE FOR OURSELVES.
You’re never a number here. You’re someone with a story. And that’s where we begin.
