Hyatt House Destin Opens with Spacious Suites, Resort-Style Amenities and Extended-Stay Comfort
On Thursday, Aug. 20, Hyatt House Destin celebrated its opening with a ribbon cutting. The Hyatt House Destin is a modern extended-stay hotel conveniently located near Destin's shopping, golf, restaurants and breathtaking beaches. Make yourself at home in its spacious rooms and suites with fully equipped kitchens. Enjoy free parking, flexible meeting spaces, a lively lounge, and an outdoor pool. Wind down on the patio, furnished with a grilling station and firepit, and plan another exciting day in
Destin High Shark Shop Reopens with Spirit Wear, School Supplies and More
On Thursday, Aug. 6, Destin High School celebrated the grand reopening of its Shark Shop with a ribbon cutting. With school starting next week, students, parents, alumni and community members are invited to stock up on their favorite DHS spirit wear and gear. Merchandise includes t-shirts, letterman jackets, hoodies, jewelry, accessories, school supplies and more. The Destin High School Shark Shop is located inside the school at 4325 Commons Dr. W., in Destin. Items may also be purchased online at
16 Graduate from Chamber’s Community Education & Leadership Program
On May 7, the Destin Chamber celebrated the graduation of 16 business professionals from its 18th Destin Forward class. During the event, the prestigious Destin Forward Leadership Award, chosen by class vote, was presented to Kyle Davis of Integrity Financial Group. Kyle is seen here with the Chamber's 2026 Chairman of the Board Monica Wallis of Destin Water Users. Destin Forward, a community education and leadership program, was created to help find and educate future city and business leaders. After a
Dillard Gulf Coast Companies Celebrate Grand Opening of New Freeport Location with Expanded Home & Business Solutions
On Tuesday, April 14, Dillard Gulf Coast companies Gulf Coast Shutter, Overhead Door of NWFL and Quality Gates and Openers held a ribbon cutting celebrating their new Freeport location. Locally owned and operated, the Dillard Gulf Coast family includes reputable companies with trained and certified technicians for storm shutters, decorative shutters, retractable screens, overhead doors, dock equipment, gates, awnings, pedestrian and automatic doors, and access control. They have been helping both
Executive Group by Axen Realty Enters the Destin Area Real Estate Market
On Tuesday, Dec. 9, Executive Group by Axen Realty celebrated joining the Destin business community with a ribbon cutting! Axen Realty is a new brokerage sweeping the country. Where most brokers took years to be in all 50 states, Axen Realty will make it in just over six months. It offers flat rates, low fees, and an amazing revenue share component for agents. "At AXEN Realty, agents EARN MORE, GROW FASTER, and NEVER SETTLE," explained owner Debra Mears. Visit the office at 321 Harbor Blvd.
Helen Donaldson Awarded Lifetime Membership with Destin Chamber
During the Destin Chamber’s Nov. 14 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Eglin Federal Credit Union, Helen Donaldson (left) was honored with the Chamber’s Lifetime Membership Award. She is pictured left with 2025 Chamber Chairman Jenni Brunson of Okaloosa Gas. Donaldson recently retired after serving the Destin Fishing Rodeo, one of Destin’s most iconic events, for almost three decades. Under her watch, the rodeo grew from just under 600 fish entries to more than 1,000. It survived and thrived despite
Wayne Bernheisel Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter
During the Destin Chamber’s Sept. 12 Business Before Hours Sponsored by AGM Secure Money, LLC, Wayne Bernheisel was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. Bernheisel is seen here with 2025 Chairman of the Board Jenni Brunson of Okaloosa Gas. Bernheisel is the owner of three local businesses, including Gulf
Magnolia Medical Clinic, P.A., Provides Accessible, High-Quality Care in Destin
Congratulations to Magnolia Medical Clinic, P.A., on your new Destin location! Yesterday, doctors, staff, family and Chamber Ambassadors gathered to celebrate with a ribbon cutting. On Thursday, Aug. 28, Magnolia Medical Clinic, P.A., celebrated its new Destin location with a ribbon cutting. Magnolia Medical Clinic, P.A., is committed to providing patients with convenient access to high-quality care. The professionals at Magnolia Medical Clinic believe that providing high-quality care is not only about
Beautiful, Resort-Inspired Waterfront Venue Opens in Destin
On Tuesday, Aug. 12, The Alice celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. The Alice is a resort-inspired waterfront venue designed for extraordinary gatherings. Hidden behind elegant fencing and surrounded by lush tropical landscaping, it offers a private paradise along the Choctawhatchee Bay. Blending luxury, natural beauty, and seclusion, The Alice sets the stage for unforgettable weddings, celebrations, and elevated events. This beautiful venue, located at 109 Calhoun Ave., in Destin, is
Great Food, Cold Beer & Non-Stop Sports Unite at The Gulf Club Restaurant & Sports Pub
On Tuesday, July 22, The Gulf Club Restaurant & Sports Pub celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. The Gulf Club Restaurant & Sports Pub is where great food, cold beer and nonstop sports come together in Destin. It offers an elevated sports pub experience with 27 beers on tap, a full bar with specialty cocktails, and a menu packed with high-quality, affordable eats that go beyond the usual bar fare. With wall-to-wall HD TVs, you’ll never miss a moment of the action or the big game of
Lori Joyner Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter
During the Destin Chamber’s July 15 Great American Cookout Sponsored by Community Bank and Emerald Coast Title Services, Lori Joyner, Executive Director of Harvest House, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. “I have always admired Lori and the work she does. She’s a special person. People forget about
International Sustainable Lifestyle Fashion Brand EKKO Opens First US Retail Location in Destin
On Friday, June 6, EKKO | ELH USA INC celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. Located in Destin Commons, this is EKKO's first US retail location. Founded in 2013 on the tropical island of Ceylon, Sri Lanka, EKKO is a sustainable and ethically driven lifestyle fashion brand for men and women. EKKO caters to individuals who embody confidence and seek class and comfort. In 2015, EKKO was awarded the Best Brand of the Industry at the inaugural Mercedes Benz Fashion and Apparel Awards ceremony in
Graffiti Pizza – Destin Opens in Destin Commons
On Monday, June 2, Graffiti Pizza – Destin celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. Locally owned and operated, Graffiti Pizza - Destin specializes in New York-style pizza, and its dough is made from scratch. You may enjoy pizza by the slice or pie. This family-friendly restaurant, located in Destin Commons, offers indoors and outdoor dining, with a full outdoor bar and 20 TVs. Check out the full menu at DestinGraffitiPizza.com and stop by the restaurant to see local artwork from local
Destin Forward Celebrates Completion of Historical Audio Trail at Captain Leonard Destin Park
Destin, Fla., May 28 – On Tuesday, May 27, the Destin Forward Class of 2025 held a ribbon cutting celebrating the completion of its class project, an interactive audio trail at Captain Leonard Destin Park. Five stories narrated by Destin City Councilor Dewey Destin describe events in Captain Leonard Destin's life, as well as the history of the East Pass. Park guests can scan QR codes on plaques throughout the park to access the stories. According to CityOfDestin.com, Captain Leonard Destin Park, located at
13 Graduate from Chamber’s Community Education & Leadership Program
Destin, Fla., May 12 – On May 8, the Destin Chamber celebrated the graduation of 13 business professionals from its 16th Destin Forward class. During the event, the prestigious Destin Forward Leadership Award, chosen by class vote, was presented to Allyson Anger of Home2 Suites by Hilton. Destin Forward, a community education and leadership program, was created to help find and educate future city and business leaders. After a retreat in August, the class spent the next eight months touring and learning
Family Physician Dr. Timothy Tuel Opens MDVIP-Affiliated Practice in Destin
On April 22, Timothy Tuel, M.D., celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. A family physician for three decades, Dr. Tuel's MDVIP-affiliated practice offers services, including comprehensive, advanced health screenings and diagnostic tests, that go far beyond those found in concierge medicine practices. These assessments have been shown to help identify certain risk factors, helping doctors to stay on top of your health and can aid in designing a wellness plan. Same-day and next-day
Christian Carlee Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter
During the Destin Chamber’s April 11 Business Before Hours Sponsored by CRC Data Technologies, Christian Carlee, Market President with First National Bank, was honored with the Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. Carlee is seen here with 2025 Chairman of the Board Jenni Brunson of Okaloosa Gas. “I’ve known Christian for many years,
Spark by Hilton Destin Offers Consistent, Comfortable & Affordable Lodging
On March 6, Spark by Hilton Destin celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Spark by Hilton Destin offers consistent, comfortable, and affordable stays, to help budget smart and travel happy. Guests will appreciate its many amenities, including comfortable, clean and thoughtfully designed guest rooms; free morning bagel bar and freshly brewed coffee; common area with rocking chairs and picnic tables; 24/7 retail market with snacks and ready-to-eat options; and free WiFi. Spark by Hilton
850 Froyo & Kwench Juice Café Offer Sweet & Healthy Dining Options in Destin
On March 4, 850 Froyo and Kwench Juice Cafe celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. 850 Froyo offers self-serve frozen yogurt at only 73 cents per ounce. Check out the menu at Froyo850.squarespace.com! Kwench Juice Cafe offers a wide variety of raw juices and smoothies, invigorating juice cleanses and shots, and delicious acai and pitaya bowls to fuel your health and wellness journey. Its commitment to quality ingredients and innovative recipes ensures a wholesome and delicious experience
After 12-Year Run, Sun Sets on Paddle at the Park
After long and difficult consideration, the Destin Chamber's Board of Directors has decided to cancel Paddle at the Park, bringing an end to its 12-year run. The event was also cancelled in 2020 due to Covid. Created to help draw tourists to the area, promote a trendy new sport, and partner with home-grown paddleboard manufacturer BOTE, the event drew close to 175 paddlers at the outset. While that number declined slightly through the years, after the 2020 cancellation, participation never bounced back,
EXIT Realty Anchor South Opens Grand Boulevard Office
On Feb. 18, EXIT Realty Anchor South celebrated its new Grand Boulevard office with a ribbon cutting. EXIT Realty Anchor South is a full-service, professional real estate company with additional locations in Fort Walton Beach, as well as Lake Martin and Auburn, Ala. It is industry leading in training, marketing and branding. EXIT Realty Anchor South provides agents the opportunity to earn more than 100%, a residual income of 10% between closings, a retirement benefit of 7%, and a legacy benefit of 5%.
Destin Chamber Installs 2025 Board During January Breakfast
During the Destin Chamber’s Jan. 10 Business Before Hours and Annual Membership Meeting at Emerald Grande, 2024 Chairman Christian Carlee of First National Bank officially passed the gavel to 2025 Chairman Jenni Brunson of Okaloosa Gas. After taking the gavel, Brunson explained the goals she and the Board created for the coming year, including continuing to work with local and state officials and organizations in advocating for the needs of the business community, forming a Past Chairman's Council to serve
Detricks Car Wash Offers Express Car Washing Services in Destin
On Dec. 17, Detricks Car Wash celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Family owned and operated, Detricks Car Wash offers express car washing services with no contracts, one low monthly fee, contact free entry and more. Be sure to ask about its fleet program and fundraising opportunities. Visit the Destin location at 1071 U.S. Hwy. 98 E., in Destin. For more information, visit DetricksCarWashInc.com or call (850) 353-2097.
Eric Navarre Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter
During the Destin Chamber’s Nov. 8 Business Before Hours, Eric Navarre, Emerald Coast Market President with Renasant Bank, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. “I’ve known Eric for a long time. I’ve watched him grow and develop into a seasoned business executive and a leader in many facets of our
Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company Offers Community Banking & Innovative Products in Miramar Beach
On Oct. 22, Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company celebrated its new location with a ribbon cutting. Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company's mission is to strengthen its relationship with its customers by combining the values of old-fashioned community banking that focus on individualized customer service with innovative, competitive banking products and trust and brokerage services. Banking services include checking and savings accounts with online and mobile banking options, as well as personal loans, home
Shane Moody Named State Chamber Association's Executive of the Year
The Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP) awarded Destin Chamber President & CEO Shane A. Moody (right), CCE, FCCP, with its prestigious Executive of the Year Award, during the organization’s Annual Conference, held September 24-25, 2024, at the Boca Raton Marriott at Boca Center in Boca Raton, FL. The award was presented by FACP Chair-Elect Noel Martinez, President & CEO of the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes a chamber executive who has made outstanding
Learn More About Destin City Council Candidates at October 1 Forum
Hear from the candidates for Destin City Council, during an Oct. 1 Candidates Forum Sponsored by the Destin Chamber and Emerald Coast Association of Realtors. The forum format will include opening and closing statements from each candidate. There will be a series of questions from the Destin Chamber and ECAR. Chamber Chairman of the Board Christian Carlee and ECAR's Director of Government Affairs Melissa Garza will be the moderators. Questions from the Chamber and ECAR will rotate throughout the forum.
Melissa Read Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter
During the Destin Chamber’s Sept. 18 Tourism & Hospitality Lunch, Melissa Read, General Manager of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. “Melissa has done a great job turning around the direction of the convention center. She’s been willing to work with
Get Back to Passionate, Purposeful Life with GameDay Men’s Health-Destin
On Aug. 22, GameDay Men’s Health-Destin celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. GameDay Men's Health can help get your testosterone levels back to what they should be, so you can live your passionate, purposeful life. Enjoy free TRT tests, no contracts, man cave offices, and more. For more information, visit GameDayMensHealth.com/destin or call (850) 250-1201. The new location is inside Regatta Commons at 4477 Legendary Dr. Ste. 201, in Destin.
Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Fort Walton Beach Vintage Records
Destin, Fla., April 28 – On April 27, Fort Walton Beach Vintage Records celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Fort Walton Beach Vintage Records carries vintage vinyl record albums, including classic, rock, pop, heavy metal, soul, new wave, jazz, country, easy listening, comedy, and classical. It also offers vintage turntables, amps speakers, and more, as well as used electric, acoustic, and bass guitars. Visit it at 217 Racetrack Rd. N.W., in Fort Walton Beach. For more information, visit
