Amidst the ocean breeze and tropical climate of Key West, high schooler Selina had fallen in love with the Sunshine State and told herself, “I would never live in the cold again.” Originally from Michigan, Selina was introduced to her newfound fashion style of lightweight and breathable clothing while living the island life. Years later, her high school outfits would become the inspiration behind her brand’s identity. Today, she calls Winter Haven, Florida, home and is the ow

If you’re looking for a restaurant that feels like you’re visiting a dear friend of yours who made you a home-cooked meal, Maria Petit Food Boutique is the perfect spot. With antique wooden furniture painted in neutral and green colors, framed wall baskets with childhood trinkets and plants along the windowsills, it feels both welcoming and comforting from the moment you step in. “You get here, and you don’t feel like you’re eating at a restaurant. You feel at home, as if you

Hold on to your hats, Polk County! There’s a new destination in Central Florida and it’s right in your backyard. If you’ve driven down Highway 27 between Haines City and Dundee recently, you may already be waiting with delightful anticipation to find out what’s been brewing on big Lake Hamilton. The answer: beer, coffee, and family fun for all ages. Port 27 is set to open in early spring and is sure to become a hotspot for locals and visitors alike. Nestled on the shore of La

When Geanie Folder walked into 801 E. Main, inspiration struck her like lightning. “I knew I could do something with the building,” she said. “I looked at probably 11 or 12 buildings in Lakeland, and I just know. I know when I walk in if I’m going to be able to make it happen.” Folder quit her job in 2016 and started a vintage market, the Beatnik Exchange, the following year. She opened Unfiltered Bartow in 2019 and adapted her business to ride out the pandemic. She launched

Three Winter Haven women have joined their visions and talents to open a unique concept off Central Avenue. Gourmet ingredients, local produce, and an open kitchen provide an intimate hospitable experience at Agape Agora Trattoria and Marketplace. Light spilling into the arcade onto tables a shade lighter than lapis and painted lemons along the window are evocative of an Italian coastline. The scene is a calm, deep breath. And the meals? Hearty, wholesome, and made with love

It would be fair to say Bartow’s newest coffee house started in a Brooksville field – the idea for it did, anyway. CEO and Creative Director of Unfiltered Coffee, Geanie Folder, worked in a nursing home for most of her life. A fierce creative, Geanie always kept a “vintage side hustle” upcycling clothing and furniture with her company Rebel Juju. THE BEATNIK EXCHANGE IS BORN When her last child left home, she left her job at the nursing home and started the Beatnik Exchange.

It has been over six months since faith-based nonprofit, Top Buttons opened a store in downtown Winter Haven. The community excitedly welcomed Top Buttons, both for its mission to “provide confidence-building education and proper fitting attire to young women in need,” according to founder and CEO, Sarah Powers – and for the chance to shop its top-tier thrift selection. “The moment we have the opportunity to share about our mission, the customers perk up and excitedly look fo

“You are beautiful – but I’m sure that’s the least interesting thing about you.” -Sarah Powers For many, Top Buttons is a trendy designer thrift and boutique where you can browse the racks for a new-toyou outfit. For around 300 girls a year, Top Buttons is an interview outfit, a bra that fits properly, an ensemble that resonates confidence and pride – Top Buttons is an incubator for self-worth. Their mission is not only to teach girls and women how to dress but to let them ex