Entertainment

Generosity in Action

Kalah and Hugh Hathcock are transforming lives and the community through philanthropy and compassion. Article by Laura L. Watts | Photography by Various Kalah and Hugh Hathcock are a force to be reckoned with. They have a passion for health and wellness. They travel the world. They spend time with loved ones at church and athletic events. And they have a passion and conviction for supporting a wide range of organizations and people in need from all around the globe. Hugh, originally from...

Education

LOVE OF LEARNING

COMPASSIONATE EDUCATION FOR STUDENTS. RENEWED HOPE FOR THEIR LOVED ONES. Article by Wendy Rudman | Photography by Galina Wells & Emerald Blue Photography If you ask parents like Evie Ramos and Franz Menay what makes Advanced Sacred Hope Academy (ASHA) different, their answer is simple: It’s love. When the small school for neurodiverse children opened in 2019, Evie and Franz’s son Dom was one of its first students. He’s still there, and he’s thriving. Evie, who works at ASHA, inspired founder...

Event Planning + Services

Life Lessons

A former college basketball star pivots to a thriving career in finance while championing the sport locally. Article by Laura L. Watts | Photography by Emerald Blue Photography Sometimes life doesn’t turn out the way we planned. Sometimes it turns out better. Cory Fosdyck grew up in Illinois, a lifelong basketball enthusiast. He earned a basketball scholarship that covered his education at Western Illinois University, where he earned both a bachelor’s degree and an MBA. Cory served as...

Food + Beverage

Habitat for Humanity

Partnering with the community to ensure residents have a place they can call home. Article by Destin City Lifestyle | Photography by Habitat for Humanity of Walton County As the affordable housing crisis continues to affect families across the country, Habitat for Humanity of Walton County is proving that women are not only part of the solution, but they’re also leading it. At the center of this movement is Teresa Jones, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Walton County, who has led the...

PARTNER CONTENT

Food + Beverage

Sea and Snow Shave Ice Brings Aloha to Destin

Some of the best ideas are born from cravings, and for the family behind Sea and Snow Shave Ice, that craving was for the ultra-fluffy, flavor-packed Hawaiian shave ice they fell in love with on a trip to the islands.After returning home to Destin and realizing there was nothing quite like it locally, they decided to create their own version, one that stayed true to the authentic Hawaiian experience while adding a refreshing local twist. That dream became Sea and Snow Shave Ice, a veteran...

Life + Culture

A FLAVOR fiesta

Pepper's Mexican Grill & Cantina Article by Laura L. Watts | Photography by Emerald Blue Photography Bringing signature margaritas and authentic Mexican flavors to Northern Florida since 2005, the Pepper’s brand has established itself as an expert in bold flavors and refreshing beverages crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. In January the family-owned company opened its fifth Okaloosa County installment: Pepper's Mexican Grill & Cantina in Destin.   Jorge Lopez, general manager and...

Home + Design

Outdoor Kitchen Oasis

Elite Cabinet Designs blends style and functionality to create an alfresco retreat that’s as durable as it is beautiful. Article by Destin City Lifestyle magazine | Photography by Jason Ellis, 8 Fifty Productions An outdoor kitchen is more than just a functional space; it is an invitation to embrace Florida’s gorgeous climate while creating lasting memories with loved ones. Whether for an intimate dinner party, a weekend cookout or a poolside pizza night, an entertainment area enhanced by...

Food + Beverage

Edible Art

Sugar Bomb Bakery’s artisanal sweets please the eye and palate. Article by Destin City Lifestyle | Photography by Emerald Blue Photography Combining confections and creativity, owner Autumn Proserpi creates sweet treats for dessert lovers at Sugar Bomb Bakery. Specializing in exquisite cookies, cakes, cake pops and cupcakes—all made with organic ingredients—Autumn transforms desserts into edible masterpieces. She designs sugary seashells, hearts, flowers and butterflies while balancing...

Food + Beverage

Food, Fun & Family

Enjoy nonstop thrills, refreshing drinks and mouthwatering meals at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill. Article by Destin City Lifestyle | Photography by Myranda Elkin & Bobby Wagner Since 1982, Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill has been more than a restaurant or bar. It’s a Destin tradition and a must-visit icon for locals and tourists alike. Fudpucker’s is dedicated to their favorite “F” words: Food, Fun and Family. It’s a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience for all ages.   Guests visit...

Arts + Culture

Coffee Culture

The Batarao family expands Maas Coffee Roasters to Destin. Article by Destin City Lifestyle | Photography by Galina Wells Photography Maas Coffee Roasters has always been more than a place to get a cup of coffee along the Emerald Coast. Since its beginnings in Fort Walton Beach, the brand has carried a reputation for carefully roasted beans, bold flavors and a community vibe. Generations of customers have come to know Maas Coffee as a roaster first and foremost—a name rooted in quality rather...