Shopping

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.

Sundog Books, at the heart of Seaside’s charm, definitely has its own story. Stepping up to the porch, you start to get the feeling this isn’t your average bookstore – and you’re right!

You may be greeted by a local author on the porch, signing her latest dream. As you pass over the threshold onto the worn hardwood floor you'll spot Patty, the owners' 14-year-old dog. She's part of the welcoming committee and an easy reminder to slow it on down. Yes, right away, the experience is a step back in time.

Drumroll please! This Friday Night, October 8, Central Square Records (located above Sundog Books in the Seaside square) has a reason to celebrate – and YOU are invited!

Come join Jenny and Tom King as they share a very exciting event…new ownership! They have a great line up of things going on from 5:00 – 8:00, that you won’t want to miss!

For those of you who love Central Square Records just the way it is, don’t worry. The new owners are familiar faces and have been a governing force in Central Square Records since it opened originally in 2003.

If you're looking for a used bike and you ask a local where to find one, you're likely to be told to go see "the bicycle man". He's sort of a living legend around SoWal.

The dictionary defines  “legend” as a non-historical story, or the story of an admirable person.

The definition applies to the life of 89-year-old Leon Sulfridge, better known as  “Jack, the bicycle man.”