Shopping

Eight years ago Larry and Beje Beasley discoverd Seacrest while visiting SoWal and fell in love. On a trip four years later, heading back home after spring break they realized it was time for a change.

SoWal’s own Stephanie Nichols is making fashion waves from sea to shining sea. No matter how smug us locals might be about our little corner of paradise, every now and then it’s great to get validation from “out-of-towners.”  Granted, we know with certainty our beaches and architecture are the best.  But it’s nice when first-time visitors confirm other SoWal offerings rank up there too.    

Henderson Farm started vending at Seaside during the summer of  2010 when they had an excess of delicious, spicy off-season arugula in the garden.  Their friend, Celeste Dick, an enthusiastic supporter of the Seaside Farmer's Market, suggested that we try offering our extra produce there.  And so it began...!

What better gift for the holidays than a little piece of South Walton? Here's a quick list of highlights for you last-minute shoppers looking for an authentic SoWal gift.
 

There's a lot of great music in the SoWal Area but homegrown Dread Clampitt's style of bluegrass meets the beach has wide appeal.
http://www.dreadclampitt.com
 

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me, food, drink and discounts, and the best Christmas shopping locally.

The Shops of Ruskin present a new twist on a favorite tune with “The 12 Shops of Christmas” December 3-14.  When you choose to shop with The Shops of Ruskin this holiday season and make a minimum purchase of $25 in each shop during December 3-14, you’ll receive a case of Mumm’s Cuvee champagne from Modica Market at the end of your shopping spree!  It’s that simple.

On any given Saturday morning at the Seaside Farmers Market, you’ll find everything from organic breads, to crispy green arugula, to farm-fresh organic chicken and duck eggs. The colorful posters by artist David DeGregorio pasted all over SoWal each month mark the passage of the seasons and the growth of the market (see poster gallery).

Nestled at the north end of the commercial district on Barrett’s Square in Rosemary Beach is The Hidden Lantern Bookstore and Gallery. It is a booklover’s treasure where story times and book signings co-exist with art exhibitions and hands-on art workshops.

When people first heard a bookstore was coming to Rosemary Beach, there was some surprise at such a venture with big chains close by and another independent bookseller on 30-A, but the Carvalho family believed it was the right thing to do.

Crowds gathered well before the doors of the Santa Rosa Beach Walmart opened June 15. The parking lot filled and cars were parked along West Hewitt Road. Vendors were there to hand out giveaways.

It was crazy, but exhilarating as the doors opened, says Harry Millsaps who works as a greeter there.

Harry is well known in South Walton as a Realtor, South Walton Fire District fire commissioner, Tourist Development Council Advisory board member and volunteer for many causes.

La Vie Est Belle says, "we believe that Moms are precious and one of a kind, like our pearls. This Mother’s Day one mother will receive a gorgeous, one of a kind pearl bracelet. To win, go to our Facebook page and like us. Be sure to post a favorite memory of your mother, whether it be a story or a photo."

Also be sure to like SoWal facebook to receive exlusive updates and chances to win!

Win  a gorgeous fresh water pearl “Jelly Bean” bracelet from La Vie Est Belle - the gallery in Seaside features the iconic fine pearl and leather designs of Wendy Mignot.  This Easter, one of their lucky Facebook fans may find the beautiful bracelet in their basket.