Life + Culture

Building a family legacy

‘I want my kids to be proud of what we’ve built’ Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Ashley family On any given morning in Cullman, you might find Ryne Ashley at The Busy Bee, having breakfast while greeting the familiar faces that drift through the door. It’s a ritual that reminds him why he’s never wanted to live anywhere else. “It can be easy to take for granted what we have here,” he said, “but as the world gets crazier, it’s easy to see the greatness we get to live in every day.” ...

Local Services

Something that lasts

How faith, family and hard work drive Haynes Auto Detail Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Nathan Haynes In Cullman and the surrounding areas, where community ties run deep and a handshake still means something, it’s not unusual to find business owners who pour their whole hearts into what they do. But for Nathan Haynes, the man behind Haynes Auto Detail, running a growing business while raising a big family isn’t just a balancing act — it’s a calling. “It’s busy; no way around that,” he...

Life + Culture

Finding strength in every challenge

'What’s the hardest lesson you’ve learned as a business owner, and how did it shape you?' Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Contributed We asked nine local businessmen to share the hardest lessons they’ve had to learn — and how those experiences changed the way they show up as leaders today.   Shawn Doss The Cigar Box | www.thecigarboxalabama.com The biggest hurdle for me to overcome was recognizing the value of employees. In the beginning, I was a one-man operation. It was not...

Health + Wellness

'It's all interconnected'

Dr. Katherine Vintson’s roots, holistic philosophy and faith Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Katie Sue Harris, Lisa Jones Photography When Dr. Katherine Vintson, DO returned to Cullman to practice medicine, she wasn’t just coming home. She was stepping back into a community she understands. A Cullman native now practicing at Cullman Internal Medicine, Vintson brings with her not only medical training, but also intimate knowledge of the culture and realities that shape her patients’...

Shopping

'A little bit quirky'

Inside the colorful world of Monograms Plus Article by Wendy Sack Local favorite boutique Monograms Plus is a swirl of color and creativity. Owner Lynsey Todd has poured her heart into creating a shop that feels like home — with a dash of quirky charm. Todd described the style of Monograms Plus with a smile: “Colorful, cheerful and a little bit quirky.” She’s built a space designed to spark happiness. Think bright displays, patterns and gifts that feel personal and special. Everything in...

Local Services

Happy Tails, indeed!

For business owner Page Dowdy, it’s all about relationships and family Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Lisa Jones Photography, Happy Tails On any given morning at Happy Tails Groom & Board, you’ll hear a blend of cheerful barks, soft greetings from staff and the quiet hum of a place that feels more like a second home than a pet care facility. At the center of it all is the woman who built it: Page Dowdy.   For her, the magic begins long before a dog ever steps onto the grooming table...

Local Services

7 women shaping local businesses

These entrepreneurs are blazing their own paths Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Various 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...

Home + Design

Design as a value multiplier

Inside Katie B. Kirkwood Architectural and Interior Design Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Jacob Fine For many homeowners, design feels like an aesthetic choice. For Katie B. Kirkwood Architectural and Interior Design, it’s an investment strategy — one that protects budgets, enhances long‑term value and elevates daily living. The firm offers custom home design, architectural planning, interior design, finish and furnishing selections and construction project management. By integrating...

Health + Wellness

Investing in what matters most

LifeWork Physical Therapy is redefining health in north Alabama Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Cydni Robertson In an era when health care can feel rushed and impersonal, LifeWork Physical Therapy is quietly reshaping what it means to invest in your health. Founded in 2017 by Owner and President Mike Tucker, PT, CSCS, Cert. DN, the practice grew out of a simple conviction: people deserve one-on-one, research-based physical therapy care delivered with compassion, integrity and...

Home Services

The engineering of an investment

Purchasing a home is the foundation of your family's financial future Article by Sean Buntin | Photography by Gemini Home Inspections Buying a home is the most significant investment most of us will ever make. In a growing community like Cullman, that investment represents more than just a roof over your head — it’s the foundation of your family’s financial future. When the stakes are this high, the quality of the information you receive during the due diligence process is your greatest asset...