Am I Wright?
There are certain places that just stand the test of time. (What a boomer thing to say…) Yet, Wright’s Gourmet is just that. Our family moved to Florida in 1976, and even though we didn’t live in Tampa back then, our love affair with this place began! While our mother continues to be a fabulous cook, an occasional takeout treat would often be brought home from our dad’s day at work—a few Beef Martinis to cut into shared bites, a Turkey Terrazzini for a holiday meal, a slice of the rum cake that Dad loves, and a piece of lemon cake to share. And if it was a really good birthday… a whole Alpine Cake. Twenty years ago, when we moved to Tampa (again), I took our son in a stroller for many a lunch at Wright’s—the veggie pasta for the absolute win! (And yes, I know it’s off the menu for a bit, but I am fine with that too, because change can be good.) And change really is in the air for them lately! If you haven’t heard the news, Wright’s recently transitioned to new ownership under Caspers Company. It’s pretty exciting to see a local team with such a deep hospitality legacy in Tampa Bay taking the reins, and they’ve promised to keep the high-quality food and traditions we love completely the same while letting the business grow. In fact, part of that growth means they are opening a brand-new retail outlet called Wright’s Market right inside the beautiful Oxford Exchange! They are taking over the pop-up space formerly home to The Candle Pour, which means we’ll soon be able to grab their legendary bakery-driven treats and daily grab-and-go staples right on Kennedy Boulevard. Speaking of their legendary treats, my history with them just keeps going. I was recently able to have a fun Mother/Son send-off before he went to college, which included having Wright’s Alpine Cake ice cream over at Chill Bros! WOW. And if I haven’t said enough about how much I like Wright’s and their food—I really love their MERCH. On my recent visit, I was not only able to enjoy a ton of necessary protein on my salad, but I also browsed enough merchandise to feel even more excited about this “newer” spin on Wright’s. (See the pics attached, and feel free to buy some for me, or anyone and everybody else!) I would be remiss if I didn’t close by saying that my late and great friend, Jackie Orr, would love all of this new momentum. I can picture her sipping every last bit of her iced tea, savoring the cup and straw almost as much as the actual tea. Today would be her birthday, and without a doubt, a quick trip across the bridge for tea and Alpine Cake would surely be making its return to Belleair. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
Rays on the Runway Raises More Than $400,000 to Make Dreams Come True for Local Children Battling Life-Threatening Illnesses
Children’s Dream Fund’s annual Rays on the Runway raised more than $400,000 to help make dreams come true for local children battling life-threatening Illnesses. Held August 27th at The Floridian Social in downtown St. Petersburg, the signature event brought together dream children and their families, Tampa Bay Rays players, their significant others, and hundreds of community supporters for an unforgettable evening celebrating the courage and joy of the children at the heart of the Children’s Dream Fund mission. The highlight of the evening was the fashion show where dream children took center stage alongside Tampa Bay Rays players while raising critical funds to fulfill dreams for children throughout West Central Florida. The 2026 event was presented by Power Design, with key support from WestCMR, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, the Stross Family Foundation, Stevens & Stevens, and many other generous sponsors and community partners. The evening was also made possible through the generosity of numerous in-kind partners. Locally owned St. Petersburg boutiques Zaa and Matter of Fact served as fashion partners, helping style the runway participants for their moment in the spotlight. Olivia Poppy Salon returned as the event’s hair and makeup sponsor, helping every dream child walking the runway— along with their moms and participating Rays wives — look and feel their absolute best before taking the stage. The Children’s Dream Fund is especially grateful for the continued partnership of the Tampa Bay Rays, whose players, families and organization continue to believe in the mission and help create meaningful experiences for Dream Children and their families. “Rays on the Runway is so much more than a fundraiser,” said Amanda Walker, Executive Director. “It is a celebration of our Dream Children and a reminder of what is possible when an entire community comes together around them. Raising more than $400,000 means more local children facing life-threatening illnesses will have the opportunity to experience the anticipation, joy and lasting memories of a dream come true. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who made this night possible.” The success of Rays on the Runway reflects a true community effort, with volunteers, sponsors, donors, vendors, community partners and supporters all playing a role in bringing the event to life. Funds raised will directly support the Children’s Dream Fund’s mission of fulfilling dreams for children with life-threatening illnesses throughout West Central Florida. About Children’s Dream Fund Founded in 1981, the Children’s Dream Fund is a St. Petersburg-based nonprofit organization dedicated to making dreams come true for children with life-threatening illnesses throughout West Central Florida. From the moment a child begins dreaming to long after their dream is fulfilled, the organization works to create experiences that bring hope, joy and lasting memories to dream children and their families. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
Summer Reading…Sort Of
Summer may officially be over for the students and it’s back-to-school time, but before we completely move on, I thought I’d share a few of my absolute favorite books from the summer. And in full transparency, when I say “books,” I mostly mean audiobooks. I simply cannot give up valuable needlepoint time to actually hold a book! So listening while stitching has become my version of summer reading—and really, year-round reading. Here are a few that kept me happily listening (and stitching!) this summer: Whether you’re back in the school-year routine, commuting, walking, cleaning out a closet—or, like me, working your way through a needlepoint canvas—these are a few worth adding to your list. Happy listening…or reading, if you insist on actually holding the book! Hi Honeys! My storefront is buzzing with ideas new and old. Check it out…. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
A Story That Hits Close to Home: Come From Away
This September, Eight O’Clock Theatre brings the remarkable true story of Come From Away to the stage at Central Park Performing Arts Center. On September 11, 2001, the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, suddenly found itself welcoming thousands of strangers when 38 planes were diverted to its airport. What began as an unimaginable day turned into a five-day display of generosity as local residents opened their homes, shared meals and offered comfort to travelers from around the world. That extraordinary story became Come From Away, the Tony and Grammy-nominated musical celebrating the power of community and the impact ordinary people can have simply by choosing to care for one another. For the Registry Tampa Bay team, this production has an especially personal connection. Our own Molly duPont was aboard one of the planes diverted to Canada on September 11, 2001. She experienced firsthand the kindness and compassion at the heart of the story. Following the September 11 performance, Molly will join the cast for a special talkback, sharing her unique perspective and memories from those five unforgettable days. It’s a story about humanity at its best, and one we’re incredibly proud to see Molly help tell. Eight O’Clock Theatre presents Come From Away September 4–13, 2026 Join us September 11 to see the show and hear Molly duPont’s story: Tickets for the September 11 performance Can’t make September 11? View all Come From Away performances and tickets Hi Honeys! My storefront is buzzing with ideas new and old. Check it out…. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
Open Nesting!
Doesn’t that sound so much better than empty nesting? Here’s hoping! As so many students head off—or back—to college in the coming weeks, there are probably just as many parents wondering what this next chapter is going to feel like. Personally, I am spending my anxious energy outfitting our younger son for his freshman year, while checking in on our older son as he returns to campus for his senior year. And somewhere between freshman move-in and senior year, I’m realizing just how quickly those college years go! As a boy mom, I have generally scrolled past the endless reels of perfectly decorated dorm rooms with a bittersweet feeling. It looks like a lot of work…but also kind of fun! Alas, shopping for my boys is probably a little easier. There’s less emphasis on coordinating throw pillows and headboards and a lot more emphasis—and wishful thinking—on cleaning supplies. So, rather than a beautifully styled dorm-room guide, I’ve put together my practical list of the things we actually buy, pack and send to college. Some are obvious, some are things we learned along the way, and a few are things I’m fairly certain will come home unopened in May. Whether you’re sending off your first, your last, or somewhere in between, I hope my list is helpful! And as for the empty nest? I’m going with open nest. They may be off building their own lives, but the door—and apparently my Amazon account—is always open. Happy shopping, Molly The winners are in! Thank you to everyone who joined our Summer with Registry Tampa Bay giveaway and shared a little piece of their summer with us. We loved seeing where your adventures took you! Congratulations to our winners: YETI Cooler: Grace Dull $200 Middle Grounds Grill Gift Card: Ava McGuire $50 Belleair Coffee Company Gift Card: Kaylie Watson Thank you for spending your summer with Registry Tampa Bay! Hi Honeys! My storefront is buzzing with ideas new and old. Check it out…. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
Grandma Hobbies Are Having a Moment… And Pinellas County Was Ahead of the Curve
Florida’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday is the perfect time to shop with someone else in mind. While you’re picking up notebooks, crayons, pencils, glue, folders, or backpacks, grab a few extra items for one of the many local school supply drives happening across Tampa Bay. Thanks to the tax holiday, every dollar goes a little further, and your donation can help a child start the school year feeling prepared and confident. If you’ve spent any time scrolling social media lately, you’ve probably come across the phrase “grandma hobbies.” Needlepoint. Knitting. Crocheting. Quilting. Gardening. Baking. Mahjong. The hobbies many of us grew up watching our grandmothers enjoy are suddenly the coolest way to unplug from our screens, slow down, and reconnect with our creativity. The funny thing? Here in Pinellas County, they never really went out of style. One of my favorite local businesses, The Flying Needles in Belleair Bluffs, has been helping stitchers create beautiful keepsakes for more than 65 years. Long before grandmacore became a hashtag, Flying Needles was welcoming beginners, seasoned stitchers, and everyone in between. Many of you know that for the past three years I’ve also been part of the Flying Needles family, working alongside Meridith Henry. Between managing shipping and receiving, helping organize retreats and special events, and meeting stitchers from all over the country, I’ve come to appreciate that Flying Needles is so much more than a needlepoint shop. It’s a gathering place where friendships are formed, creativity flourishes, and beginners are welcomed just as warmly as lifelong stitchers. What I love most about needlepoint isn’t just the finished project. It’s the conversations around the stitching table, the friendships that form over a shared canvas, and the heirlooms that eventually get passed down to the next generation. In a world that’s constantly asking us to hurry, it’s a hobby that reminds us to slow down. If you’ve ever thought about giving needlepoint a try, this is your sign! We offer beginner classes throughout the month, along with retreats, stitch nights, trunk shows, and special events. Be sure to follow @FlyingNeedlesBelleair on Instagram for the class calendar and the latest happenings. I’d love to see a few familiar beeMAIL faces in the shop! Happy stitching, Molly Hi Honeys! My storefront is buzzing with ideas new and old. Check it out…. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
Shop the Tax-Free Holiday and Share the Savings
Florida’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday is the perfect time to shop with someone else in mind. While you’re picking up notebooks, crayons, pencils, glue, folders, or backpacks, grab a few extra items for one of the many local school supply drives happening across Tampa Bay. Thanks to the tax holiday, every dollar goes a little further, and your donation can help a child start the school year feeling prepared and confident. Below are a few organizations making it easy to give back. Pick one—or support them all. Bonus: The Tampa Bay Rowdies are collecting school supplies, too! Donate four or more items at their drive and you’ll receive a voucher for a future Rowdies match. Now that’s a win-win. Hi Honeys! My storefront is buzzing with ideas new and old. Check it out…. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
Dream Big, Give Back
Meet Dream Fund Professionals Dream Fund Professionals (DFP) is a growing network of young professionals dedicated to making dreams come true for local children facing life-threatening illnesses. Through fundraising, advocacy, and community engagement, members use their talents, creativity, and connections to support the mission of the Children’s Dream Fund while building meaningful relationships throughout Tampa Bay. Whether your passion lies in events, marketing, fundraising, volunteering, or membership engagement, DFP offers countless ways to make an impact beyond the office. Join for Paddle & Play Wednesday, July 22 | St. Pete Athletic Grab your friends and join Dream Fund Professionals for an evening of networking, friendly competition, and philanthropy. Schedule: 6:00–7:00 PM — Networking Happy Hour 7:00–9:00 PM — Choose your game: Pickleball or Mahjong No experience? No problem. Pickleball players will rotate through matches on three reserved courts, while mahjong participants can learn and play alongside an instructor. Enjoy food and drinks available for purchase, enter the raffle, and connect with fellow Tampa Bay professionals, all while supporting an incredible cause. Make Mia’s Dream Come True Proceeds from Paddle & Play will help grant 5-year-old Mia’s dream: a Tampa Bay Lightning “Golden Ticket” package for the upcoming season. Location: St. Pete Athletic, 680 28th St. S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712 Interested in joining Dream Fund Professionals? Reach out to Emily Walsh at ewalsh@childrensdreamfund.org to learn more and become part of a community creating meaningful change. Hi Honeys! My storefront is buzzing with ideas new and old. Check it out…. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
Working Women of Tampa Bay Expo
You’ve heard me say it before—I don’t love the word networking. It can feel a little forced. What I do love is finding your people, cheering each other on, making introductions, and building a genuine sisterhood of support. That’s exactly what the Working Women of Tampa Bay Expo is all about. Whether you’re growing a business, looking for inspiration, shopping local, or simply wanting to meet some incredible women in our community, this is one of those events that’s easy to walk into and hard to leave without a few new friends (and probably a few new favorite businesses). I hope to see you there! Cheers! Molly Details Join us as we celebrate 17 years of connecting, empowering, and elevating women in business at the 2026 Women in Business Expo presented by BayFirst Bank at Egypt Shrine Center in Tampa.This signature event brings together hundreds of professionals, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and business owners for an afternoon of inspiration, education, and meaningful connections. Explore a dynamic expo hall featuring outstanding exhibitors showcasing products, services, and resources designed to help you thrive personally and professionally. Attendees will also enjoy engaging speakers sharing insights on leadership, business growth, marketing, innovation, wellness, and success strategies for today’s professional woman. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, expand your network, discover new opportunities, or simply be inspired, the Women in Business Expo offers something for everyone. Schedule: 1-2pm – Networking in Expo Hall 2-3:30pm – Keynote Speaker + Panels 3:30-5pm – Networking in Expo Hall Register for the VIP ticket to have a seat for the program and get a swag bag full of goodies! Click here to register! Hi Honeys! My storefront is buzzing with ideas new and old. Check it out…. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
Play with Purpose at Chi Chi’s Fiesta Fore the Future
For more than 50 years, the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation has been transforming the lives of at-risk youth throughout Tampa Bay by providing the educational support, mentorship, and life skills needed to build brighter futures. Hosted by the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation, Fiesta Fore the Future celebrates the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to helping young people achieve academic, social, and economic success. Through innovative educational programs, including the Chi Chi Academy and First Tee Clearwater, students are empowered both in the classroom and beyond. Located on the Foundation’s Clearwater campus, the Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club and Driving Range do more than provide exceptional golf experiences, they directly fund the educational programs that continue to impact countless local students each year. Every swing, every sponsorship, and every guest helps make a difference. Join fellow community leaders, supporters, and advocates for an evening dedicated to changing lives and creating opportunities for the next generation. When you support the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation, you’re not just attending an event….. you’re helping young people build the skills, confidence, and foundation they need to succeed in life. Play with purpose. Invest in the future. Click Here to Visit the Website Ok Honeys, To know me is to smell me. Is that even a thing? Like most people, I associate scents with memories. Dove soap reminds me of my grandparents’ bathrooms. McDonald’s fries smell like carpool on a good day. And Breck shampoo (if they still make it!) will always take me back to swim practice. Somewhere along the way, I guess I developed a signature scent. My boys don’t seem to notice it—until someone at a restaurant stops me to ask what perfume I’m wearing. The answer? Delina. The fragrance is a floral bouquet anchored by Turkish rose, peony, and lily of the valley, layered with bright, fruity notes of lychee and rhubarb. But here’s the secret: I actually prefer the body cream over the perfume. It lasts longer, moisturizes, and somehow seems to stay with me all day. The challenge is that the Delina body cream jar is constantly sold out. The good news? The refill is usually available. (And while you can find it in several places, purchasing through my Amazon affiliate links helps support my habit of finding fun things to share with all of you.) If you somehow missed the hype this spring over the Publix vs. Trader Joe’s peony debate, I’ll let it slide. But in early June, I was lucky enough to bring home the real thing from my mom’s gorgeous garden. To keep that fresh peony scent going long after the blooms are gone, I love the Mrs. Meyer’s Peony products. And every now and then, I reach for a Jo Malone fragrance because to me that’s the OG. So that’s today’s buzz. Stay tuned to see if I ever give up the details on my detergent. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
Discover What’s Happening Around You: Introducing the Community Calendar
There’s always something happening in Tampa Bay—but keeping up with it all? That’s where we come in. We’re excited to unveil the Community Calendar, a brand-new feature designed to keep you connected, informed, and inspired to explore the very best of Tampa Bay. This easy-to-navigate, one-stop calendar brings together local events across a wide range of categories including: ● Arts & Leisure – from gallery openings to live theater ● Charity – galas, fundraisers, and community-driven causes ● Foodie Events – wine tastings, restaurant pop-ups, and food festivals ● Health & Wellness – yoga in the park, retreats, and wellness workshops ● Golf – tournaments, clinics, and social outings ● Automotive – car shows, motorsport events, and enthusiast meetups Whether you’re planning your weekend or looking ahead for next month’s must-do experiences, the Community Calendar makes it simple. Located at the top right of our homepage, the calendar allows you to RSVP to events, purchase tickets, and sync key dates directly to your personal calendar—so you never miss a thing. And for those organizing events, especially nonprofits and charity planners, this tool is a game-changer. By seeing what’s already on the calendar, organizations can strategically schedule their events to avoid overlap, helping everyone gain more visibility and attendance. Our mission with the Community Calendar is simple: to support a more connected and vibrant Tampa Bay. This is more than just a listing—it’s a platform for locals, by locals, that brings our community together in meaningful ways. So go ahead, explore what’s happening around you. From casual meetups to can’t-miss galas, it’s all just one click away. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.
Morning Star School Palm Trees & Palomas – SAVE THE DATE!
Palm Trees & Palomas is one of those nights that reminds you just how special our community is. Created by parents of Morning Star School, this festive evening blends tropical fun with a meaningful mission—supporting a school that helps children with learning differences truly thrive. This event means so much to our Registry Tampa Bay family, as it was founded by duPont Registry alumna, Christine Hubbell, and her husband Jerry. Our lives have been enriched by witnessing their devotion to their daughter and her schoolmates, and our community is extremely fortunate to have Morning Star School. It’s not just a fundraiser, it’s a celebration of these incredible kids and the families behind them…with a Paloma in hand, of course. Some REGISTRY Tampa Bay content may be sponsored, paid for, or promotional. Sponsored content is created by or for advertisers. Views and claims expressed are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect REGISTRY Tampa Bay. We do not endorse any advertised products or services.