Food + Beverage

The Art of the Table

Explore Toni Mitchell Sova’s Greek-inspired farm-to-table culinary vision. Article by Lynne Konstantin | Photography by Aly Darin Some legacies are inherited. Others are earned through decades of dedication, an artist's eye and the kind of customer service that feels like family. For Toni Mitchell Sova, it’s both. Greek-American Chef Toni, as she’s known — a private event chef, food stylist and founder of Nostimo Kitchen (Greek for “tasty”) — grew up in the world of the celebrated Mitch’s...

Health + Wellness

Balance & Bliss

Whether your Valentine’s Day is a couples outing or a Galentine gathering, these local picks are perfect for pampered wellness. Article by Lynne Konstantin THE TOX Thetoxtechnique.com After experiencing The Tox technique firsthand in New York, Erica Nagel brought this holistic wellness innovation to Birmingham. The studio offers three signature services — using house-made products with rosemary, green tea and vitamin E — perfect for Feb. 14 celebrations: the MasterTox (60 or 90 minutes...

Life + Culture

Weather Bros Gone Wild

A pair of local meteorologists team to create multimedia with witty conversation, mischievous merrimaking, engaging interviews — and friendship. Article by Jennifer Lovy | Photography by Aly Darin “Join for the mayhem, stay for the feels.” That’s the slogan prominently displayed on Alan Longstreet’s Instagram. And it’s apt. The on-air antics of Derek Kevra and Alan Longstreet present an entertaining mix of nonstop banter, frat-boy pranks and an electric aura of goofiness that make for great...

Shopping

IN THE PINK

Valentine’s gifts and goodies — to wear and to share. Article by Lynne Konstantin Pleats, cutouts, juicy colors: Amur’s Elodie Satin Color-Block Gown , made with recycled polyester from PET water bottles. Saks Fifth Ave., Somerset Collection, Troy; saks.com. Total babe: cropped Babe Faux Mink Jacket by Frances Valentine (of course) is plush and polished. Area Nordstrom stores; nordstrom.com. Twin with your mini-me on a mommy-daughter date: Crewcuts Collection Cropped Faux-Fur Jacket...

Fitness

Bio-Hack Your Business Trip with EMS

The frequent traveler, (whether business or personal) knows the physical toll of life on the road is a silent cost of success. A new pre-travel protocol from Synergy EMS is changing the equation, ensuring Birmingham’s leaders land at their destination performing at their peak.The rhythm of a business trip is ingrained in the life of any Birmingham professional: the early morning drive to Detroit Metro, the streamlined security check, the disciplined review of notes at 30,000 feet, you’ve...

Fitness

The Science of Accelerating Your Physique Transformation

Weight loss today is no longer guesswork. It’s both a science and a strategy. In a community that values excellence, efficiency, and elevated living, the traditional formula of eating well, exercising consistently, and patiently waiting for results often clashes with the realities of modern life. Synergy EMS understands the goal goes beyond “losing weight.” It’s about reshaping the body, restoring energy, and reclaiming strength across every area of life.You know the feeling: You are disciplined...

Health + Wellness

2026 Health + Wellness

Four local businesses redefine the future of feeling good. Article by Susan Thwing BEAUTILAB Birmingham’s newest med spa is pioneering longevity-based beauty beautilab.com BEAUTILAB, Birmingham’s newest medical spa, blends high-end aesthetic artistry with science-based wellness programs. Founded and led by board certified medical doctors, BEAUTILAB’s team of board-certified physician associates and aesthetic specialists is united by one mission: to deliver results that look good...

Wellness

How Her Garden Grows

Former news anchor Sarah Michals has found joy by daring to bloom in her own time. Article by Susan Thwing For more than a decade, Sarah Michals woke up before dawn, perfectly put together, ready to tell other people’s stories. As a TV news anchor and reporter, she chased breaking news, worked holidays and lived life on deadline — all in pursuit of what she thought was her dream: reaching the Detroit market she’d idolized as a girl. “I grew up in Metro Detroit, and ever since I was a little...

Travel

An Alpine Escape

Discover the Valais region of Switzerland, where alpine trails, thermal springs and local traditions create restorative travel. Article by Gabi De la Rosa In Switzerland’s Valais region, wellness and adventure are always part of the same itinerary. Morning could bring a high-alpine hike, afternoon a soak in mineral-rich springs and evening a table set with traditional cuisine, always including delicious wine and cheese. For travelers, the best part will be finding the perfect balance between...

Life + Culture

What’s New, Birmingham?

The hottest openings and up-and-comers for shopping, eating, playing and relaxing in Downtown Birmingham. Article by Lynne Konstantin SPAS Brothers Andrew and Michael Vallentine opened the doors in July to The NOW Massage (thenowmassage.com) at 375 Hamilton Row, offering high-quality affordable massage services in a truly inspired setting. Offerings range from Swedish and sports to pre-natal massages, with a range of signature enhancements, like Hemp Calm Balm, Herbal Heat Therapy and...