Southport Magazine

Call me a hopeless romantic, but this has been one of my favorite editions to create so far. As we were putting together the pieces, connections to our theme of weddings and love emerged where we didn’t expect them.

February is our annual wedding issue, and I knew this month our cover story should focus on Operation Marry Me Military, an organization that donates, plans and puts on dream weddings for local military couples. Flip to pages 6 and 7 to read the first-hand account of Wendy Hilliard, the assistant director of the charity and co-owner of Seaside Wedding Connection.

Kris and I also knew we wanted to request wedding photos from our readers to go in this month’s Spottings. What a joy it is to see both newlyweds and experienced married couples celebrating one of life’s greatest gifts: true love!

Of course, when I saw Brunswick Little Theatre is going to put on a new show, that was my first choice for Showcase coverage. How timely that their performance happens to be the iconic musical comedy “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change.” Single vignettes flow in the traditional timeline of a relationship, from the first date to marriage, parenting, and beyond.

It was ideal, then, that our selection for this month’s Homestyle feature be Lois Jane’s Riverview Inn in Southport. Meezie Childs and her brother, Davey Herring, are fourth-generation owners of the house which was built by their great-grandfather. The tale is a true testament to the importance of a strong family.

Then, as a pleasant surprise, we learned that our Savor feature, StaarrCakes Bakery, will celebrate its first anniversary this Valentine’s Day. What a treat!

With that, the February edition is tied neatly with a bow for you, dear readers. And we’ve brought an extra gift that I’m very excited about: our exclusive Locals Only deal guide! Check out our center spread to see dozens of deals only Brunswick County locals can partake in this month. It’s a way for small businesses to say thank you to their customers, and a way for customers to show appreciation that the participating businesses stay open through the winter, by patronizing their services. Hurry, though—the deals expire at the end of this month!

Have a ‘marry’ February,
Bethany