Valdosta Magazine

09/17/2026

Some people find their calling...others are born with it✏️ For Valdosta artist Patrick Carlson drawing has been a lifelong passion. From sketching comic strip characters as a child to building a career as a full-time illustrator, his journey is a testament to what can happen when talent meets persistence!

🎨 Through decades of practice, creativity, and a commitment to continually improving his craft, Patrick has turned a childhood dream into a career that reaches clients across the country and around the world!!

✨ Pick up the Summer 2026 issue of Valdosta Magazine to read Patrick’s amazing story of creativity!!

Story by Narci Drossos Photography by Wes Sewell Photography

09/11/2026

What started with one lawn mower and a determination to work hard has grown into an award-winning business impacting communities across South Georgia and North Florida. At just 26 years old, Stewart Ward has built more than a successful company, he's built a legacy rooted in faith, leadership, and serving others!

Big dreams often begin with small steps 🌱 His story is a reminder that success isn't measured only by growth, but by the lives you impact along the way.

Read Stewart's inspiring journey in the Summer 2026 issue of Valdosta Magazine!

You won't want to miss this one! 🔗 Link in bio to check it out!
Story by MADISON THORNHILL Photography by Wes Sewell Photography

Quality Outdoors & Valdosta State University Alumni Relations

09/08/2026

When the house goes from five sons to just the two of you, sometimes you need a little make over!

✨ After raising five sons, these Stone Creek homeowners transformed their home with modern furnishings, custom draperies, and thoughtful design updates!! With the help of Callie Shaw of Tin Lily Design, they created a space that feels refreshed without starting from scratch.

See the full home transformation in our latest issue!

💫 Photos by Wes Sewell Photography

08/25/2026

Great food is even better when it's shared with great friends 🔥 What started as neighbors gathering during the pandemic turned into a lifelong friendship built on faith, food, and plenty of time around the grill. In the Summer 2026 issue of Valdosta Magazine, Randy DeCoudres and Justin Purvis share their story, a delicious grilled menu, and Randy's best grilling tips that will take your next cookout to the next level!!

Trust us... you won't want to miss these grilling tips. Pick up your copy and get ready to fire up the grill!! 🥩

Story by John Riddle / Photography by Wes Sewell Photography / Friends Grille and Bar

Lindsey Purvis & Katie Rackley DeCoudres

08/11/2026

🏡✨ After their 2024 wedding, Shannon and Gary Parker turned their vision into reality with a stunning home on five peaceful acres in Hahira. From custom craftsmanship and timeless finishes to carefully curated furnishings, every detail was designed to create the perfect place to start their next chapter!

Step inside this unique home in the Summer 2026 issue of Valdosta Magazine and see how their dream became a reality.

Valdosta Furniture & Mattress
Joiners Cabinet Shop
Paramount Granite & Marble

08/06/2026

Sounds like a fun and tasty dinner!

Jewish-Israeli inspired pop-up dinner by Chef Randy DeCoudres at Friends Grille and Bar.
Date and time: Thursday, August 27 at 6 PM.
Join Chef Randy as he prepares five incredible courses inspired by Jewish and Israeli cuisine. Latkes, gravlax, matzoh ball soup, kugel, Babka cake and a few other surprises are in store at the dinner!
Cost is $65 for the food. With an optional $40 beverage pairing. Space is very limited. A $20 nonrefundable deposit, per person is required to secure your place. Call Friends today to reserve your spot!! Cheers!!
229-242-3282

08/01/2026

Don’t miss it!

07/31/2026

Some love stories come full circle 🤍

Though they grew up knowing of each other, it wasn't until years later that Sarah Kate and Cade Roberts reconnected and turned a chance conversation into forever! From a heartfelt proposal at their favorite place, Mexico Beach, to a beautiful wedding in Athens, every chapter of their story has been worth the wait!

Read more about their love story in the latest issue ✨

Steel's Jewelry
Jenna Lindsey Photography
R.L. Martin & Co - Valdosta
Perfect Settings

07/27/2026

Your backyard should feel like an extension of your home, not an afterthought. ☀️ Whether you're dreaming of a custom pool deck, an outdoor kitchen, a cozy fire feature, or a patio built for gathering, Southern Stone Age transforms ordinary backyards into beautiful outdoor living spaces designed to last!!

Pick up the latest issue of Invitation to see how Southern Stone Age can help bring your outdoor vision to life!! 🏡✨

Call (229) 251-5863 for an estimate and start transforming your outdoor space today 🔗 For more information, visit southernstoneage.com to learn more!!

Photos by Wes Sewell Photography

07/22/2026

What happens when a community comes together with one shared vision? Something extraordinary!! 🔬

The Meta Shaw Coleman Children's Imagination Station is now giving South Georgia families a place where imagination leads the way. Filled with interactive exhibits, creative play, and hands-on learning, it's designed to inspire children to dream big and explore new possibilities!!

Behind every colorful exhibit is a story of generosity, determination, and six years of collaboration that made this incredible space possible! Discover the people, passion, and purpose behind the project in the latest issue ✨

Story by Amy Faeskorn | Photos by Wes Sewell Photography | Turner Center for the Arts