City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More
Pam Dodd

Featured Article

7 women shaping local businesses

These entrepreneurs are blazing their own paths

BECCA MCLEROY 

Travel Concierge and Advisor 

CCTC Travel Agency

www.cupcakecastlestravel.com/beccamcleroy

I am a dedicated travel concierge and advisor with CCTC Travel Agency, passionate about turning dream vacations into seamless, unforgettable experiences. I specialize in personalized travel planning — from luxury getaways and cruises to family adventures and international escapes — handling every detail so my clients can relax and enjoy the journey. With insider knowledge, exclusive perks and a commitment to exceptional service, I ensure each trip is thoughtfully curated and stress-free from start to finish.

ASHLEA CHANCE

Owner

Mavens & Makers

www.facebook.com/MavensandMakers

Founded in 2019, Mavens & Makers is a vibrant local hub celebrating the talents of regional artisans and farmers. We offer a curated selection of handcrafted goods, farm-fresh meats and gourmet foods and spices. Our shelves are stocked with high-quality kitchen wares — from pots and pans to precision knives — and we regularly host engaging cooking classes and demonstrations that bring our community together through creativity and flavor.

AMBER KEENER

Co-Owner and Farmer

Bare Bottom Farms

www.barebottomfarms.com

Bare Bottom Farms is your local, family-run micro dairy in north Alabama, offering fresh raw dairy, pasture-raised meats and wholesome farm goods you can feel good about bringing home. As the 2024 Alabama Conservation Farmer of the Year, we're committed to caring for our land as well as our animals and educating you along the way. Veteran-owned, family operated, kid-approved. We will see you at the farm. 

GINA CLEVENGER

Pharmacist / Health and Wellness Partner

With 32 years of experience as a pharmacist, I have seen significant changes in health care, including a growing interest in natural and holistic approaches. While I support the appropriate use of pharmaceuticals, I also recognize the value of integrating natural solutions into overall wellness. By combining my clinical background with a passion for natural medicine, I help individuals take proactive steps toward better health. I would be happy to connect and discuss how this approach may support your health goals.

JAN KINNEY

Owner / Consultant

Key HR Partners, LLC 

www.keyhrpartners.com

Key HR Partners specializes in providing tailored human resources consulting services to support small and emerging businesses. The company focuses on compliance, employee relations, recruiting, benefits and performance management. Services are designed to meet diverse client needs through ad hoc, retainer or project-based engagements, with flexible pricing options. Offering flexible engagement options, services are available on an ad hoc basis, via retainer or as project-based solutions with pricing structured hourly or per project based on the scope of work. 

DEIRDRE WARD

Wellness Advocate

Wellness with Deirdre

https://tinyurl.com/WellnesswithDeirdre

Wellness with Deirdre is dedicated to helping individuals restore their health, confidence and overall well-being through simple, intentional daily habits and high-quality wellness products. I believe true wellness starts from within — physically, mentally and spiritually. One of the core products I share is MOA, a powerful superfood blend rich in antioxidants that helps reduce inflammation and support the body at a cellular level. My mission is to educate, encourage and empower others — especially women — to take back control of their health, walk in confidence and become the best version of themselves in every area of life.

PAM DODD

Owner

The Patio at Smith Lake

www.thepatioatsmithlake.com

Nestled along the serene shores of Smith Lake, The Patio at Smith Lake has become far more than just an event venue — it has grown into a destination where beauty, connection and peace come together in a truly unforgettable way. What began as a single venue has thoughtfully expanded into a collection of unique spaces, each designed to enhance the overall experience. The Pavilion at Smith Lake offers an inviting setting for gatherings of all kinds, while The Pines at Smith Lake provides a picturesque and intimate backdrop nestled among towering trees. The newest addition, The Lodge at Smith Lake, now welcomes up to 12 overnight guests, creating an opportunity for extended stays and deeper connection. Enhancing the experience even further, guests can now gather around the new 600-square-foot outdoor gas fire pit — perfect for relaxed evenings filled with conversation under the stars. At the heart of it all is a simple yet powerful vision: to create a space where people can come together to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments. 

"You can't be that kid standing at the top of the water slide, overthinking it. You have to go down the chute." - Tina Fey