Life + Culture

Find Your Farmers Market

Get ready to explore fresh produce, jams, and a treasure trove of artisanal goods at farmers markets in and around Venice Photography by Venice Farmers Market Photos Courtesy of Venice MainStreet Local farmers markets are the go-to spots for the freshest fruits and vegetables. But there's much more to discover. Marketgoers are treated to a delightful array of homemade artisanal goods, from jams and dog treats to local honey and freshly baked bread. That’s why Venice City Lifestyle has put...

Food + Beverage

Savor the Best: Venice Olive Oil Co.

Experience the finest global EVOOs and expand your palate with expert guidance Article by Marci Weidemiller | Photography by Venice Olive Oil Co. For millennia, olive oil has played a vital role in our lives, from baptizing infants and crowning kings to serving as currency, medicine, and sustenance. Venice Olive Oil Company proudly continues this ancient tradition by offering the finest, freshest Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) available. Venice Olive Oil’s EVOOs are certified Ultra-Premium...

Food + Beverage

Food for Health

Unlock the power of nutrient-dense foods to sustain health and combat disease Article by Emily Leinfuss In today’s world, the link between diet and health is undeniable. Scientific research consistently shows that what we eat plays a crucial role in preventing disease, boosting immunity, and promoting overall wellness. "Food is either creating disease or preventing disease," according to Dr. Chippy Ajithan, a cardiologist at Heart Specialists of Sarasota.  Medical professionals and dietitians...

Food + Beverage

Autumn Fare

Seasonal Drink & Dish Recipes from Paradise Grill Article by Brenda Nava | Photography by Stephanie Snow Photography Embrace the fall season's best flavors with recipes from Paradise Grill (paradisegrillfl). Apple Pie Martini ½ oz. brandy 1½ oz. RumChata (cream liqueur) 1½ oz. apple cider Splash of simple syrup Garnish: cinnamon sugar rim and a sprinkle of cinnamon Combine the brandy, RumChata, apple cider, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a...

Food + Beverage

Shake It Up for a Cause!

Venice's Charmaine Tincher and Phil Adams to host at CPC’s Celebrity Bartender Challenge on Oct. 17 Article and Photography by Venice City Lifestyle’s very own Charmaine Tincher (Venice Inspirator) and Phil Adams (Chocolate Thunder) are teaming up as host bartenders for the Child Protection Center’s Celebrity Bartender Challenge on October 17. Charmaine will serve a Tequila Sunset, while Phil shakes up Chocolate Martinis.  This lively event kicks off CPC’s main fundraiser—Night of Hope and...

Life + Culture

Celebrate at Sun Fiesta

Enjoy fun & festivities in support of The Women’s Sertoma Club of Venice, The Sertoma Speech Clinic, and the Venice community Article by Emily Leinfuss This October 18, 19, and 20, Venice will come alive with the vibrant energy of Sun Fiesta, one of our community's most cherished traditions. Held in the heart of downtown, this three-day event is packed with festivities, including arts, crafts, food, music, and dancing. Sun Fiesta is a true celebration of community spirit, organized by the...

Shopping

Scarlet Macaw: Where Art Meets Fashion

Hand-Painted Clothing, Exceptional Service, Community Support Article by Emily Leinfuss | Photography by Scarlet Macaw Nestled in the heart of Venice’s historic downtown, Scarlet Macaw Boutique has been a fashion staple since 1993. The boutique, as colorful and unique as its namesake bird, offers hand-painted sweaters and shirts, along with name-brand fashions, jewelry, and accessories. Simone Killoren, the current owner and one of the artists behind Scarlet Macaw’s distinctive art wear...

Home + Design

Living in Style at VOTI

Village On The Isle Provides a Friendly and Active Place to Call Home Photography by Village On The Isle It’s not the size of her apartment that makes Kitty Ramey’s life big; it’s her appetite for life. Kitty, along with her friends Holly, Rahye, and Toni, moved from their condos on Venice Island, FL, to Village On The Isle. Though their apartments vary in size, their shared enthusiasm for fun expands their living space across the community’s beautiful, amenity-filled campus. Living Large in...

Life + Culture

VPAC: A Decade of Cultural Impact

Founders Reflect on the Formative Years of VPAC & VIPA Article by Emily Leinfuss While celebrations are, and will be, in order, right now the Venice Performing Arts Center (VPAC) is quietly turning 10 years old. Mike and Bonnie Hartley were there at the beginning. They are also the founders of the Venice Institute for Performing Arts (VIPA)–formed to manage and operate VPAC. Here, they reflect on significant milestones that brought the cultural cornerstone to fruition. "The formation of the...

Arts + Culture

Raising the Barre: The Sarasota Ballet’s London Triumph

Iain Webb and Margaret Barbieri’s Remarkable Celebration of Sir Frederick Ashton’s legacy at London’s Royal Opera House Article by Emily Leinfuss | Photography by Foteini Christofilopoulou The Sarasota Ballet, under the visionary leadership of Director Iain Webb since 2007 and Assistant Director Margaret Barbieri since 2012, has earned international acclaim for its dedication to the works of Sir Frederick Ashton. In June 2024, at the invitation of The Royal Ballet Director Kevin O’Hare, Webb...