Joy Hodges is the creative force behind Joy Hodges Designs, a full-service interior design studio known for bold, art-driven spaces along Florida’s Gulf Coast and beyond. With decades of experience and a deep passion for design, Joy approaches each project with a painter’s eye, thoughtfully balancing color, texture, and architecture to create interiors that feel both striking and deeply personal. Her work is guided by the belief that great design is more than beautiful. It should reflect the people who live in the space and elevate the way they experience everyday life. Through a collaborative process and a fearless use of color, Joy has built a reputation for interiors that are layered, expressive, and entirely unique. Her mission is to create bold, intentional spaces that tell a story while blending artistry with functionality. Outside the design studio, Joy brings that same focus and determination to another passion: competitive bodybuilding, where she has earned several wins. Whether in design or competition, her discipline, creativity, and drive continue to shape everything she does. “Great design isn’t just about creating beautiful rooms; it’s about creating spaces that inspire the life you want to live.” Joy Hodges | Interior Designer 850.501.8898 joy@joyhodges.com joyhodges.com Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

There’s a moment that seems to happen this time of year, almost without notice. Not a big, dramatic shift. Nothing you can point to exactly. Just a quiet awareness that something feels different. The days stretch a little longer. The air feels lighter, the kind you notice when you step outside in the morning, and even the scent of the coast seems fresher, cleaner, like everything is starting again in its own time. Along the Gulf Coast, that feeling is hard to ignore. Maybe it’s the way the water moves. Steady, without urgency. Or the way the colors begin to change, soft pastels at sunrise, deeper blues by afternoon, warm golds settling in at the end of the day. There’s a kind of quiet beauty in it all, one that feels intentional. A reminder, in many ways, of God’s presence showing itself in the simplest details, if you’re willing to slow down enough to see it. And here, slowing down doesn’t feel like falling behind. It creates space. As I worked through this issue, I kept coming back to that idea. Not change in the way we usually talk about it. Not reinvention for the sake of it. But a quieter kind of shift. The kind that happens internally first. The kind that doesn’t always make sense to anyone else, but feels undeniably clear to you. You’ll see that reflected in stories like Why Coastal Women Are Rejecting the Hustle: And, What They’re Choosing Instead , where the conversation around ambition begins to look a little different. It shows up again in The Woman Behind the Build and Women at the Helm , where strength and leadership take shape in spaces that haven’t always made room for them. And in Lessons Learned Between the Cast & the Catch , where experience, patience, and perspective carry more weight than speed ever could. We’re often told to push harder. Do more. Stay in motion. But there’s a growing number of women, especially here along the coast, who are choosing to step outside of that pattern. Not because they’ve lost ambition, but because they’ve redefined it. There’s a difference between building a life and constantly trying to keep up with one. And once you see that difference, it’s hard to unsee it. This issue isn’t about having the answers. It’s about paying attention. To the pace you’re keeping. To the things that energize you. To the ones that don’t. And to the possibility that maybe the next step isn’t forward in the way you expected, but slightly to the side. Something more aligned. More intentional. More your own. That’s where the most meaningful shifts tend to begin. Wherever this season finds you, I hope you give yourself the space to notice what’s changing, even in small ways. Sometimes that’s all it takes. Warmly, Nicole Thompson Editor-In-Chief & Art Director Coastalpolitan Magazine Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

Easter Brunch For Every Bunny At Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort April 5, 2026 | 10:30 AM Tickets $28+ Linkside Ballroom Destin, FL FOODIEFEST April 17, 2026 | 1:00 PM Free Event Destin-FWB Fairgrounds Fort Walton Beach, FL BRANDON LAKE WORLD VISION VOLUNTEERS APRIL 18, 2026 | 4:30 PM Free Event Pensacola Bay Center Pensacola Beach, FL Pensacola Crawfish Festival April 24-26, 2026 | 6:30 PM Tickets $5 Seville Square & Fountain Park Pensacola, FL PENSACOLA UNPLUGGED SONGWRITER SHOWCASE Aril. 25, 2026 | 10:00 AM Tickets $36.39 Studer Community Institute Pensacola, FL 16th Annual bald eagle bash April 25, 2026 | 4:00 PM Tickets $75-85 11825 US-98 Fairhope, AL March 2026 Events More events may be added as the season unfolds. Be sure to explore our March 2026 events! Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

Fairhope, where the light settles softly over the water, and the conversations drift at the pace of a Gulf breeze, stories have a way of rising from the coast itself. For Carolyn Haines, a New York Times bestselling novelist inseparable from the sand and salt air of coastal Alabama, setting is never ornamental. It breathes, listens, and remembers.  Best known for her long-running Sarah Booth Delaney Mystery Series, Haines writes the South not as scenery but as character. The fictional Mississippi Delta of her sleuth may sit just beyond the state line, yet its pulse is unmistakably shaped by the tidal rhythms of Mobile Bay and the layers of the Gulf Coast life. In her novels, humidity hangs heavy with secrets. Porches possess history. Cemeteries whisper. The land exerts influence, sometimes possessive, sometimes ominous, but always there.  Southern storytelling has long been rooted in the land, but Haines’s work reminds readers why that tradition matters. The Gulf Coast, in contrast, is beauty and brutality, resilience and ruin. Hurricanes demolish, generations rebuild. That push and pull is prominent in the complexity of her fiction storytelling. There is wit alongside danger, hospitality alongside suspect. The landscape shapes not only atmosphere but tension; storms gather both in the sky and between neighbors. In this way, setting becomes an emotional barometer.  Living and writing in Fairhope, Haines draws from the Southern social currency where storytelling is your worth. Creative process, for her, is not an act of extraction but of participation. The marshlands, bay waters, and oak-lined streets are part of her daily atmosphere. To walk along the shoreline is to understand the ominous shift of a turning tide. That lived awareness translates onto the page as authenticity. Readers sense that the author knows the land of which she speaks because she inhabits it fully.  Regional storytelling, at its strongest, travels far beyond its coordinates. Haines’s novels resonate with readers across the country not despite being specific, but because of it. The deeply local becomes universal, longing for belonging, grappling with legacy, and navigating the complexities of community. Place becomes a bridge rather than a boundary.  In the end, Carolyn Haines’s fiction suggests that landscapes are not passive settings but enduring collaborators. The Gulf Coast shapes her voice just as surely as she shapes her stories. And as long as tides continue to turn along Mobile Bay, there will be tales waiting in the waterline, proof that the most rooted stories often reach the farthest.  Photos Courtesy of Google Images Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

In the quiet communities along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, where tourism ebbs and flows with the seasons, a beacon of hope stands firm for women facing their most vulnerable moments. Mary’s Shelter, rooted in faith and fueled by compassion, has been transforming lives since its first resident arrived in 2006. Under the leadership of Executive Director Kay Trattles, the organization continues to offer not just shelter, but a pathway from crisis to stability for homeless pregnant women. ​ The story began in 2001, when Noel and Jan Lindsey, retirees and parishioners at St. Thomas by the Sea Catholic Church in Orange Beach, heard daily prayers for women facing unplanned pregnancies to choose life. Inspired, Jan—who had helped establish maternity homes in other states—approached fellow parishioners Bob and Terry Barnett. Together, they rallied a committee from local Catholic churches. Land was donated, and funds were raised from generous individuals, businesses, and foundations across Mobile and Baldwin counties and beyond. In 2006, the first purpose-built maternity home opened its doors. ​ Today, known as Mary’s Haven Alabama, the home provides a safe, life-affirming space for women 19 and older who are pregnant and have nowhere safe to live. With an open-door policy—one of only a handful among hundreds of maternity homes nationwide—the only requirement is pregnancy and homelessness. No background checks, no waiting lists, no barriers. This radical welcome ensures women in crisis find immediate safety, regardless of their past or circumstances. ​ The core mission is profound: rooted in the love of Christ and the dignity of every person, Mary’s Haven fosters healing and transformation so vulnerable women and their children can achieve financial stability and realize their full potential. Residents stay for about 15 months and receive comprehensive support. Upon arrival, immediate needs—clothing, food, medical insurance, identification—are met. Each woman works with a case manager to create a personalized plan. ​ Life skills classes meet five nights a week, covering budgeting, time management, healthy relationships, and independent living. Residents must secure employment and escrow 60% of their income to build savings for the future. Job readiness support, resume help, interview coaching, GED programs, vocational training, and parenting education build confidence and competence. Trauma-informed counseling, mentorship, and spiritual guidance—offered respectfully through prayer, reflection, Mass, and the example of the Blessed Mother—help women heal, forgive, and rediscover their worth. ​ Faith plays a central role, not as obligation but as invitation. Many arrive carrying heavy burdens; spiritual grounding reminds them they are loved and purposeful, empowering them to embrace motherhood with courage and hope. ​ Success stories abound. One woman, isolated and overwhelmed, chose an open adoption that brought healing rather than grief. She gained not only peace but also a supportive extended family. While in the program, she earned her GED, obtained her driver’s license, bought her first vehicle, resolved legal issues, held a full-time job, and saved significantly—all while preparing for independence. ​ The organization extends beyond the home. The Gulf Coast Thrift Store in Elberta generates vital revenue while engaging the community through donations, shopping, and volunteering. Residents gain work experience there, and locals become partners in the mission. ​ Volunteers are the heartbeat—leading life skills classes, maintaining facilities, or assisting at the thrift store. They help create stability and show residents they are not alone. ​ Amid regional challenges like seasonal tourism jobs and housing shortages, Mary’s Haven adapts, emphasizing transferable skills and year-round employment connections. ​ Looking forward, the vision is expansive. Celebrating 20 years, the organization is launching Mary’s Village, a two-year transitional program that can lead from homelessness to homeownership in 39 months, building three-bedroom homes for graduates. Plans are underway for a Mary’s Haven in Georgia to reach more women. In recognition of its powerful impact, Mary’s Haven will be honored at the inaugural 2026 Gulf Coast Women’s Classic, presented by Lost Key Golf Club on April 20, 2026, an event celebrating female leaders in business along the Gulf Coast. ​ For those inspired to help, involvement is simple and meaningful. Become a Guardian Angel with monthly donations to support daily needs—meals, diapers, transportation—and receive birth announcements and special events. Volunteer at the thrift store or the Haven, or invite the team to speak at your church, group, or event. Every act of support saves lives and builds futures. ​ As Kay Trattles reflects, witnessing a woman realize her purpose is not merely to survive but to thrive inspires her every day. On the Gulf Coast, Mary’s Haven proves that with faith, community, and determination, broken beginnings can lead to beautiful, hopeful endings. Thanks to Mary’s Haven, women who once had nowhere to go can finally believe that home is not just a place—it’s the promise of hope reborn. Photos Courtesy of Mary's Shelter Gulf Coast and Google Images Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

There is something quietly powerful about a beautifully set table. It signals intention and invites people to slow down, gather, and linger a little longer. Along the Gulf Coast, where salt air and natural light shape daily life, table design often reflects the same balance we see outdoors: effortless, layered, and naturally elegant. A coastal table setting does not need to feel overly themed to capture the spirit of the shore. Instead, it leans into texture, light, and soft color. Linen or cotton in the color of oyster, sand, or pale blue creates a calm foundation, while natural materials such as woven chargers, rattan napkin rings, or seagrass placemats add warmth and subtle coastal character. White or ivory dinnerware keeps the look timeless and allows surrounding details to shine, while clear glassware catches and reflects the natural light coastal homes are known for. The goal is balance. Each element should feel intentional without crowding the table or distracting from conversation. Mixing textures rather than adding more color can create visual interest while keeping the overall palette calm and refined. While place settings frame each guest’s space, the centerpiece becomes the heart of the table. On the coast, this often means letting nature guide the design. Arrangements of hydrangeas, garden roses, or soft greenery bring a fresh, seasonal feel, especially when styled in clear glass or crystal vases that echo the lightness of water and sky. When the textures, colors, and florals subtly reflect one another, the entire table begins to feel cohesive. Done well, the setting feels both elegant and welcoming, creating a space where conversation, laughter, and connection naturally take center stage. Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

In today’s high-performance culture, modern women are redefining luxury. It is no longer defined by possessions alone — but by access to longevity, clarity, vitality, and control over one’s well-being. Executives, entrepreneurs, athletes, and mothers alike are embracing a more strategic approach to health. At the intersection of science and lifestyle sits one of the fastest-growing investments in personal wellness: the infrared sauna. A Smarter Approach to Heat Therapy Unlike traditional saunas that heat the surrounding air to extreme temperatures, infrared saunas use advanced infrared wavelengths to gently warm the body from within. This method allows for deeper tissue penetration at lower, more comfortable temperatures — making it both effective and sustainable for consistent use. Premium models such as the Pro 10 by MAAX Saunas integrate engineering precision with refined design, allowing homeowners to incorporate medical-grade wellness into an elegant residential setting. Designed for the Female Physiology Women’s bodies respond uniquely to stress, hormonal fluctuations, and inflammatory triggers. Infrared therapy supports circulation, cellular oxygenation, and detoxification — factors closely linked to hormonal regulation and metabolic efficiency. Many women report improvements in PMS symptoms, enhanced sleep quality, reduced water retention, and better post-exercise recovery. For high-achieving women navigating demanding schedules, these outcomes are not indulgences — they are performance tools. The Science Behind the Trend Clinical research published in journals including Mayo Clinic Proceedings and the Journal of Clinical Medicine has examined the cardiovascular and systemic benefits of infrared sauna therapy. Studies suggest regular use may support endothelial function, improve circulation, reduce systemic inflammation, and activate parasympathetic nervous system responses. Passive heat exposure has also been studied for its role in supporting cardiovascular conditioning, with some findings indicating improvements comparable to moderate-intensity physical activity in specific markers. While infrared therapy is not a substitute for medical treatment or exercise, its integration into a structured wellness routine reflects a proactive, evidence-informed mindset. The Ritual of Strategic Recovery Beyond physiology, infrared saunas create a controlled environment for mental recalibration. For women leading teams, managing households, or building businesses, protected recovery time enhances clarity, decision-making, and resilience. A 30-minute infrared session — free from notifications and interruptions — becomes a deliberate investment in executive function, emotional regulation, and long-term performance. A Personal Commitment to Elevated Living Marcela Walters of RWB Hot Tubs integrates infrared sauna sessions into her own wellness routine as part of her philosophy of intentional, sustainable success. “Wellness is not something I schedule only when I feel overwhelmed. It is part of how I maintain clarity, energy, and balance. Infrared sessions have become one of the most strategic investments in my long-term health.” An Investment in Longevity For women who view health as a long-term asset, the infrared sauna is no longer a luxury trend — it is a calculated decision. To experience the performance-driven benefits of infrared wellness firsthand, visit the RWB Hot Tubs showroom in Pensacola, Florida. Discover how advanced infrared technology can be seamlessly integrated into a refined home environment designed for vitality and longevity. Photos Courtesy of RWB Hot Tubs Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

O n the waters of Apalachicola Bay, patience is just as important as skill. The tides shift, bait moves, and redfish cruise the flats and jetties waiting for the right moment to feed. For Captain Krista Miller, fishing these waters is both a craft and a constant lesson in observation. A fifth-generation native of the Apalachicola and St. George Island area, Miller grew up surrounded by people who made their living on the water. Her great-great grandfather captained a shrimp boat, her great grandfather was a commercial fisherman, and the rhythms of the Gulf Coast were part of everyday life. Yet becoming a charter captain was not her original path. After attending Florida State University and later law school, Miller began a career in Miami with LexisNexis. Life eventually brought her home again when her grandmother became ill. Following her grandmother’s passing in 2012, Miller made a decision that surprised even herself. At forty years old, she bought her first boat. “I always say failure is what made me succeed,” Miller explains. “If you don’t fail, you don’t learn.” Learning the craft of fishing charters required more than simply knowing the water. Miller studied everything. Boat handling, rigging, weather patterns, and the subtle relationship between tide movement and feeding fish. Early on, she spent long days practicing around the jetties near Government Cut and the passes around St. George Island, learning how wind and current shape the bite. Those jetties remain some of her favorite places to fish today. “When the tide starts moving, that’s when things get interesting,” Miller says. “Water movement means feeding.” She focuses heavily on drop-offs along the jetty structure where redfish stage in deeper water. In these areas, fish may hold anywhere from three feet to nearly thirty feet deep depending on conditions. Using her Garmin electronics, she often watches for fish sitting along the bottom edges of those ledges, waiting for bait to sweep across with the tide. “On my Garmin, I’ll see them sitting on the bottom of that little hill, just waiting for bait to come over,” she says. Timing the tide is critical. Miller often plans her trips around the final hours of an outgoing tide and the first push of the incoming water. When those currents meet structure, baitfish become disoriented, creating the perfect feeding opportunity. “That window can make all the difference,” she says. “If you’re there at the right time, the bite can turn on fast.” Her tackle setup is designed for precision and sensitivity. Miller typically fishes medium-fast spinning outfits around seven to eight feet in length, spooled with braided line for better feel and casting distance. A slip sinker rig connects to a swivel and a short fluorocarbon leader ending in a circle hook. When it comes to bait, she keeps things simple and local. Fresh dead shrimp is often her first choice, especially the large “jumbo” shrimp sourced directly from local boats. Finger mullet, cut bait, pinfish, blue crab quarters, fiddler crabs, and even sand fleas can all produce depending on conditions. “Redfish aren’t picky,” she says with a laugh. “But fresh bait always helps.” The waters around Apalachicola Bay offer remarkable diversity for anglers. In addition to redfish, trout, flounder, black drum, and sheepshead all roam the estuary’s expansive grass flats and oyster bars. But for Miller, redfish remain the favorite. “They’re powerful, they’re smart, and they’ll test your patience,” she says. Which is exactly why she loves chasing them. Because somewhere between the cast and the catch, the real reward of fishing often appears. It’s the quiet focus, the shifting tide, and the moment when preparation finally meets opportunity. And on Apalachicola Bay, those moments happen every day. Photos Courtesy of Google Images Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

There is something about winter that pulls us inward. Our routines soften. Movement slows. We rest more and move less. And while that slower rhythm serves a purpose, many women find themselves wondering, as spring approaches, how to feel strong again. First, nothing is wrong. After months of reduced daylight and altered schedules, it is completely normal to feel slightly deconditioned or lower in energy. Our bodies respond to seasons. They adapt. Rebuilding strength is less about pushing harder and more about returning thoughtfully. Strength does not come from intensity. It comes from consistency. One of the most important shifts you can make is to listen before you lead. If your body feels stiff, begin with mobility before intensity. Gentle stretching. A short walk instead of a high-impact workout. Ten minutes of movement is more powerful than an hour you cannot sustain. Energy rebuilds gradually. Rather than reaching for quick resets, focus on foundational rhythms. Consistent sleep. Hydration. Balanced meals that stabilize energy throughout the day. These simple anchors restore predictability to your system, and predictability fuels resilience. It is also important to normalize fatigue. Many women expect to bounce back quickly once the calendar shifts. But the body does not operate on deadlines. If winter allowed for more rest, you may need a few weeks of gradual reconditioning. That is not weakness. It is adaptation. Recovery is part of strength. Muscles repair during rest. Hormones rebalance during sleep. The nervous system recalibrates during quiet. When you honor recovery, you create a sustainable rhythm instead of a burnout cycle. If you are unsure where to begin, start small. A 15-minute walk after dinner. Light resistance twice a week. Small changes compound. When those habits feel steady, build gently. The goal is not to return to who you were last fall. The goal is to meet who you are now. Rebuilding rhythm after winter is not about transformation. It is about reconnection. Noticing how your body responds. Responding with care instead of criticism. Strength is not loud. It is steady. And with patience and consistent self-respect, your rhythm will return. Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

Many women reach a point in life where relationships carry more history, more responsibility, and more emotional weight. Between work demands, family needs, changing bodies, and shifting priorities, communication with a partner can start to feel strained in ways it didn’t before. A short response, a missed emotional cue, or a conversation that never quite happens can leave a woman feeling unseen or disconnected. These moments may seem small, but over time they can quietly affect relationship satisfaction and emotional well-being. Why We Talk Past Each Other Differences in communication styles are shaped by both biology and social conditioning. Women are often encouraged to express emotions, talk through concerns, and build connections through conversation. Men are more commonly socialized to focus on efficiency, action, and problem-solving. Earlier in relationships, these differences can feel manageable—or even complementary. Over time, however, stress levels rise and emotional bandwidth shrinks. What once felt minor can begin to feel personal. A brief reply or lack of follow-up may be interpreted as disinterest, even when that isn’t the intention. Neither style is better or worse. But without awareness, partners may talk past each other rather than with each other. The Emotional Cost for Women From a mental-health perspective, women are more likely to internalize relationship stress. Many begin to wonder if they are “too sensitive” or “asking for too much,” especially after years of prioritizing others’ needs. When emotional needs are consistently minimized or left unspoken, women may suppress their feelings to avoid conflict or exhaustion. Over time, this can contribute to anxiety, irritability, low mood, or a persisten sense of emotional loneliness; even in long-term, committed relationships. It’s one reason many women seek therapy during periods of transition or burnout. When Good Intentions Miss the Mark Therapists often see couples struggling not because of a lack of love, but because of mismatched expectations. Women often experience care through shared conversation, emotional presence, and collaboration. Men often express care through action—fixing problems, taking responsibility, or “handling things.” Consider a familiar scenario: a women suggests sitting down together to plan a vacation, imagining connection through shared dreaming and decision-making. Her partner, wanting to be helpful, books the trip himself. He feels accomplished. She feels excluded. Both had good intentions, yet both walk away feeling unappreciated. When patterns like this repeat without reflection, emotional distance can quietly grow. Coping Vs. Defending Another important layer is how emotional discomfort is handled. Women are more likely to talk through feelings and seek support, while men often cope by compartmentalizing or focusing on tasks. These strategies aren’t inherently unhealthy, but they can become problematic when used to avoid vulnerability rather than process it. The key difference lies in intention. When emotional strategies are used to avoid discomfort, they function as defense mechanisms. When they’re used consciously for reflection and self-care, they become coping tools. Moving Toward Understanding Communication styles are shaped by more than gender alone. Family dynamics, cultural expectations, past relationships, health changes, and life stressors all influence how people express needs and interpret others’ behavior. Recognizing this broader context helps women move away from self-blame and towards self-compassion. Healing begins with awareness. When women recognize that their emotional needs are valid, not excessive—again, NOT excessive—they reclaim their voice. Growth happens when partners learn each other’s emotional language and understand that connection and problem-solving are not competing goals, but complementary ones that support both emotional well-being and lasting intimacy. DIAL 988 24/7 LIFELINE MENTAL HEALTH About The Author Bonnie Bucco is a Pensacola native with a longstanding career dedicated to supporting individuals and families across the lifespan. She earned her BA in Psychology from Clemson University before continuing her graduate studies in Expressive Art Therapy, receiving her MA from Lesley College in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Bonnie began her counseling career in Tampa, Florida, working in community mental health, and went on to earn national and state credentials, including National Board Certified Counselor and Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor, as well as LMHC supervisor certification.  After returning to Pensacola in 2005, Bonnie continued to build a diverse and impactful practice, providing therapeutic services across a wide range of settings and working with clients ages 4 to 88. She later earned an Education Specialist degree and became certified in School Counseling and Elementary Education. Today, she maintains a private practice in downtown Pensacola and is also a Certified Grief Counselor. Her clinical specialties include child development, family systems, parenting and co-parenting, mood disorders, trauma, and grief. Bonnie’s integrative approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, and Mindfulness, with a focus on healing, growth, and strengthening relationships for individuals, couples, and families.  Bonnie Bucco, LMHC Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

Brnchlla on the Beach May 2, 2026 | 3 PM Tickets ~$28+ 29 Casino Beach Blvd. Pensacola Beach, FL Pensacola Beach Art & Wine Festival May 9-11, 2026 | 11:00 AM Free Event 400 Quietwater Beach Rd Pensacola Beach, FL Panama City Beach Florida Jeep Jam May 11-16, 2026 | Times Vary Pricing Varies Locations Vary Panama City Beach, FL Zen Den Bonsai Workship May 12, 2026 | 6:00 PM Tickets $87.13 Wood Foot Beer Co. Fort Walton Beach, FL Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach May 15-16, 2026 | Times Vary Tickets $21.77+ 9581 E. County Highway 30A Alys Beach, FL Emerald Coast Open Lionfish Festival at Harborwalk Village May 16-17, 2026 | 10:00 AM Free Event 34 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL APRIL 2026 Events More events may be added as the season unfolds. Be sure to explore our March 2026 events! Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan

When Lauren Chapman first walked into the Pensacola Yacht Club a year and a half ago, she didn’t know a single person. She had just moved to the area from Los Angeles — originally from Memphis — and was only supposed to be here a few months to help her parents renovate a vacation home. Instead, she found herself drawn into a sailing community so friendly and welcoming that she ended up buying a home on Pensacola Beach and staying for good. Now Chapman is the energy behind the Women Sailing Collective , a growing network created to introduce, connect, and encourage female sailors across the Gulf Coast. An architect by profession and currently the Membership Director at Pensacola Beach Yacht Club, she noticed something many women felt but rarely said out loud: if you’re an adult who wants to learn to sail — especially a woman — it can be hard to know where to start. “In bigger sailing cities like Los Angeles, there are women’s groups that help you plug in right away,” Chapman says. “Here, there was plenty of interest, but no real central place to go.” The idea for the collective came together after countless casual conversations. Women would see Chapman’s sailing photos online and message her with the same question: How do I get into this? At the same time, she noticed many local women were already crewing on boats but didn’t always have opportunities to take the helm themselves. The collective is her way of changing that — creating space for beginners while also helping experienced sailors step into leadership roles. The first meeting blew past expectations. Chapman thought maybe 20 women would show up. Nearly 70 did. Since then, support has been snowballing, with volunteers, yacht clubs, and local nonprofits offering beginner courses and hands-on programming. And no — you don’t have to own a boat. That’s one of the biggest misconceptions. The group focuses on sharing resources, organizing relaxed practice sails on calm days, and eventually adding workshops, group outings, and even a few friendly races. Meetings will rotate locations so the collective stays open to the entire community rather than tied to just one club. For Chapman, sailing is about more than wind and water. “You learn to trust people, communicate clearly, and stay calm when things get busy,” she says. “Those skills carry into everyday life more than you’d think.” On Pensacola Bay, more women are discovering that it’s never too late to start — and thanks to a growing circle of experienced and aspiring sailors alike, no one has to figure it out alone. What began as a simple idea has become a shared effort, powered by local women who are eager to teach, crew, lead, and lift one another up on the water. Photos Courtesy of Melissa Nelson de Valcourt & Women Sailing Collective Coastalpolitan Magazine | 2026 FEB-MAR FOLLOW US @coastalpolitan