Wellness

Seeking in Sedona

Article by Kali McNutt | Photography by Provided Do you need to hit rock bottom to book the trip? And do you need to “heal” if you aren’t that broken?  These were just some of the questions I asked myself upon arrival for my solo retreat, aka “Soul Adventure,” among the red rocks of Sedona. It was a trip–a timeout–strongly suggested by my inner circle. Burnout, overwhelm, perimenopause, the “ick.” Whatever you call it, I had it, and maybe a last-minute sojourn to Sedona would be the magic...

Health + Wellness

Is There a Doctor in the House?

Concierge medicine offers patients more personal options Article by Blair Moore | Photography by Ambre Amari One Sunday night, a young mother of three was preparing to rush to the emergency room with chest pain, a condition she’d never experienced before. The thought of long waits, endless forms, and the potential of racking up thousands of dollars in medical bills weighed on her as heavily as the pain itself. But instead of gearing up for a long night, she made a single call to Dr. Joseph Wu...

Health + Wellness

Taking Charge of your Sleep in 2025

A mental health moment with Upward Behavioral Health Article by Misti J. Norton, Ph.D., DBSM It’s happening again! You felt exhausted all day and were determined to get in bed by 10 pm. Unfortunately, the minute you got into bed, your brain decided it was time to review your entire to-do list, worry about the rude comment your boss made, and contemplate that embarrassing thing you did in 3rd grade. You finally drift off after an hour but wake again at 3 am. You know you will be tired...

Fitness

Moving and Grooving in 2025

New ways to challenge yourself and have fun Article by Emilie Maynor | Photography by Photography Provided If you want to set a few new fitness goals in the new year, you're not alone. January is a big month for new gym memberships. But did you know Birmingham boasts many fitness options outside your typical gym? You can spice up fitness goals with adult dance classes or try out America's fastest-growing sport, Pickleball. Tune into your zen with a tai chi class or get social with a 10-mile...

Health + Wellness

Simple Steps to Maximize Men’s Health

Article by Blair Moore | Photography by Ambre Amari Every man has a personal reason that drives him to prioritize his health. Whether it’s the desire to be a better partner, the need for energy to keep up with young kids, or the goal of reclaiming vitality with age, identifying this “why” is essential for making meaningful life changes—ones that affect not only physical health but overall well-being. More and more men are discovering that lasting health improvements don’t require a complete...

Food + Beverage

Feel-good Food

How Kim McNair Brock created a Living Kitchen Article by Denise K. James In 2011, Kim McNair Brock encountered a fork in the road when she took a hiatus as owner of Bitty’s Back Porch to care for her family. One afternoon, she experienced a conversation that cleared the path ahead: a nurse practitioner took interest in her culinary skills and passion for wellness, suggesting Kim become a certified holistic health coach. The idea felt like a seamless fit.  “She was asking so many questions, I...

Finance + Legal Services

No Risk, No Reward

A measured approach to financial risk enhances your investments Article by Mary Meadows Livingston In the investing world, risk holds two meanings: uncertainty and loss coupled with opportunity and growth. When working with clients, I have a framework to ensure we’re taking an appropriate level of risk. We start with an advanced plan that outlines someone’s values and goals. Next, we gather quantitative inputs. This might be information about lifestyle costs, vision for retirement lifestyle...

Shopping

Something for Everyone

Locally sourced gifts for everyone on your list Article and Photography by For the New Parent Are you or someone in your life expecting next year? Give the gift of flexible childcare with a membership to Moxi. With locations in Homewood and downtown Birmingham (opening in early 2025), Moxi offers on-demand childcare with amenities for parents, like coworking and fitness. Holiday pre-sale pricing is $590 for one year of membership, which includes the first two months free! ...

Home + Design

Baking Up Memories

Recipe developer Pam Lolley shares simple, sensational treats to try this season Article by Blair Moore | Photography by Birmingham Lifestyle Pam Lolley has spent over 30 years perfecting the craft of baking and recipe development, with 19 of those years at Southern Living Magazine. As a Recipe Tester and Developer, Pam created some of the magazine's most beloved recipes, including several of the Big White Cakes, which have graced its cover numerous times. Before joining Southern Living ...

Shopping

Gifts to Delight

Article and Photography by Whether you are shopping for yourself or a loved one, we hope this guide inspires idea. If you've been doing your makeup the same since college, maybe it's time for a refresh. At her studio in Cahaba Heights, 20-year beauty industry veteran Kerri Bunn builds confidence by teaching makeup techniques and guiding women in finding colors that suit them. Her passion is helping women achieve a polished yet simple everyday look. "It doesn't have to be hard!" she says...