Author: Rebecca Frett

Tourism is an integral facet of the Emerald Coast economy. Ashley Herrick plays a vital role in ensuring the Henderson Beach Resort stays booked and busy. She knows just what makes Destin and one of its finest resorts special, and…

Kailien Silva believes that character development is key to future success and that change is a valuable component of growth that can help one find their own self-worth. In her role, she strives to help those facing legal challenges address…

Creating images that are vibrant, bold, dramatic, and timeless describes the work that Carolina Waldroff does as a photographer. She got her start in business through the encouragement of her family, husband, and best friend who was also an early…

Connection and quantifiable growth are the secrets to Joshua Henderson’s success. The advertising consultant for Cumulus Media—an audio-forward media company that delivers content to 250 million people monthly. Henderson also believes in giving back to his community and supporting local…

Lillian Baker looks through her lens to tell each client's life story. As a lifestyle, branding, and family photographer, she aims and shoots to capture meaningful moments you can forever keep. From business brand photos to a family portrait session…

At 23, Shardai Sallye is still young herself, yet she’s highly attuned to the importance of the next generations, so much so that each school day she makes tangible impacts on students' lives at the SHE Academy, an after-school mentorship…

With a strong understanding of complex real estate transactions, a passion for teaching, and a robust education that includes a master’s in business administration, Conner Morrison works to support and elevate the professionals of the Cocoran Reverie luxury real estate…

Philip Bonabi leads the Beaches Construction team in handling new builds, remodels, renovations, and repairs for residential and commercial projects in Bay and Walton Counties. His construction career spans hospitals, aviation, residential neighborhoods, and more, making him adept in a…

 Born and raised in northwest Florida, from the coast to the capital, Jaynie Mitchell Sundberg is set on helping people invest in the region while she herself invests in the people of the region. On a day-to-day basis, Sundberg meets…

As a former NFL sports host, Brooke Kromer moved around often. That is, until she found her forever home in 30A. That “just right” feeling is something she aspires to help every client find when she hands them the keys…

Katie Anderson will be the first to tell you that social media is essential to the success of a business. In 2019, she rode the wave of the influx of social media platforms, bringing to life a marketing company that…

 Growing up, Christie Petruzzelli was always playing a sport or auditioning for a part in a show. She’s competitive by nature—subscribing to the belief that with the right focus, attitude, and energy, she can master nearly anything. This point-of-view has…

Originally from the United Kingdom, Maya Sargent knew she wanted to create her version of the American dream. This dream included being a friendly, familiar face and the voice piece for a community, as a reporter. After moving to the…

Matthew Minnix is the co-owner of Thick Cookie Co., a bakery that got its start with online and pop-up sales and recently opened a storefront in Fort Walton Beach. The process of opening the shop that specializes in thick, chewy…

Morgan Page is co-owner of Thick Cookie Co., a bakery specializing in thick, chewy cookies that got its start in online and pop-up sales and recently opened a storefront in the Fort Walton Beach downtown area. She hopes her business…

Amanda Campbell leads her life with a servant’s heart. Campbell has been volunteering since she was a little girl, which led to her career path in non-profits. In her role, she raises awareness for Legal Services of North Florida, which…

A desire to improve his community’s quality of life is the primary goal that guides Koby Townsend in his work. In his career of service, he hopes to create opportunities that allow residents to live comfortable lives, where young people…

Bradley Copeland considers art to be her religion, and since moving to the area in 2019, she’s shared her faith with a growing audience. With the Cultural Arts Alliance, Copeland helped start an art program at the Walton Correctional Institution.…

In 2020, Skylar Nobles launched Tallahassee's first mobile bar in a time when the future of events seemed uncertain. With persistence, connections, and keeping the importance of celebration at the forefront, Nobles has maintained one of the region’s most sought-after…

Briana Spence has an eye for identity. Meaning, her passion lies in helping brands and businesses define themselves through design. From logos for business cards to custom tee-shirt designs to a complete business rebrand, Spence delights in knowing her clients’…

Working to bring awareness and support to Northwest Florida throughout the state and region is Alex Smith’s goal. He recently joined the University of West Florida as director of external affairs, where he is overseeing the university president’s initiatives to…

Through her company CC.Boone, Caroline Mowry epitomizes and romanticizes coastal luxury. Along the Emerald Coast, she is known for creating beach experiences, including beach bonfires, private dining, bridal events, photo styling, and more for her clients. Mowry adores nothing more…

Nathan Saczynski always sees his subjects in the right light. With an extensive background in theatrical and broadcast lighting, Saczynski utilizes light composition to reflect the uniqueness of all who step in front of his camera. Saczynski talent shines most…

In her professional role, Kianna Gilley shares news about her community with its residents and media outlets. Having a commitment to learning and growing as well as following good examples can lead to a career where your gifts can shine.…

To Andrew Rowe, your bank should be more than simply a financial institution, it should foster a sense of community. At his desk at Synovus in Fort Walton Beach, he strives to get to know each banker. This people-person attitude…

Elise Gilbert contributes to the Cultural Arts Alliance mission and the community by implementing arts programs that provide high-quality classes and opportunities for people of all ages. She aims to inspire others to invest in their unique gifts and approach…

When life gave Rosalyn Wilsey lemons, she turned them into—coffee? Wisley had been laid off from a job during the pandemic and, with the encouragement of her father, whom she playfully refers to as “the frother,” she figured out how…

Making fashion sustainable, accessible, and collaborative is the motivation that inspired Kennedy Joy Foristall to launch Raide, a clothing rental marketplace app for college communities. The app offers a secure way to rent personal clothing, and Foristall says she’s proud…

Locally owned and operated, Hearth & Soul is a haven for all things home. The thoughtfully curated store promotes local artisans and hosts many community events—two endeavors Grace Kurowski enjoys most about her role. As an artistic soul, Kurowski takes…