KK AND CHANDLER

Photo by Greddins Visuals

An Affair to Remember

April 2025

Timeless Beachside Celebrations

By Lian Pickens | Photography by Greddins Visuals

A gorgeous winter weekend of celebrations throughout the beach communities of Scenic Highway 30-A in Northwest Florida culminated in a beautiful wedding ceremony at The Bay restaurant as Katheryn “KK” Williams and Chandler Smith said, “I do.”

Surrounded by family and close friends, they stood before a flower-adorned altar and professed their dedication as the gentle waves of the Choctawhatchee Bay lapped in the background. Afterward, a lively celebration took place on The Bay’s beach, waterfront deck, and back porch beneath string lights and Spanish moss-strewn oaks. Guests enjoyed libations and a hot chocolate bar while The Bay’s culinary experts, led by Chef Terrance Johnson, served shrimp cocktail, caprese skewers, grilled pineapple, paella, mini chocolate tortes, and key lime pies. Wedding planner Nicole Pair of Elegant Pairings and Chrissy Floral Design worked closely with the team at The Bay to create a stunning space, setting the stage for a celebration to remember.

Owned by Chef Jim Shirley, The Bay’s events team has recently expanded its on-site and off-site event catering services, building on Chef Jim Shirley Enterprises’ strong reputation for excellence in dining and event planning. Its iconic restaurants across South Walton, Florida, include the beloved Great Southern Café, 87 Central Square, The C-Bar, b.f.f., Meltdown on 30A, Farm & Fire, North Beach Social, and The Bay. From intimate gatherings to larger celebrations, there is a perfect venue in the lineup for those looking to host a special event in a memorable locale, ranging from waterfront locations to elegant indoor spaces.

“Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a large waterfront wedding, our venues offer the perfect atmosphere, excellent food, and attentive service,” says events coordinator Brianna Anderson. “We focus on delivering a flawless event experience through multiple flexible venue choices, curated menus, and a dedicated team.” Guests delight in fresh, locally sourced dishes that reflect the culinary excellence for which Chef Jim Shirley’s restaurants are renowned.

For a dynamic atmosphere, 87 Central Square offers a versatile venue ideal for special events, parties, and receptions. Situated in the heart of Seaside, Florida, the restaurant features an intimate yet lively space that can be tailored to match any style or theme. It’s also recognized for hosting twice-weekly Paella Night events with Chef Joyce Russell, the esteemed “Paella Queen” of 30-A, who prepares the sizzling Spanish-inspired dish in a giant pan on-site, allowing guests to watch the process while sipping a glass of wine and enjoying tapas-style appetizers. Whether it’s a formal gathering or a casual celebration, 87 Central adjusts to accommodate any occasion. Renowned for its top-notch service and diverse menu, the restaurant serves everything from fresh seafood to classic Southern dishes, ensuring every guest’s tastes are catered to. The venue also offers full-service planning assistance, including setup, staffing, and coordination with trusted local vendors and wedding planners, providing a stress-free option for those looking for a seamless event.

In addition to private events, Chef Jim Shirley and his team are the culinary experts behind some of the town’s most cherished annual gatherings, reflecting the community’s love for great food and lively celebrations. One notable event held in February at 87 Central was the Seaside Prize Welcome Reception, where leaders in architecture and urban design came together to honor the recipients of the prestigious Seaside Prize. Guests savored signature cocktails, delicious bites, and charcuterie boards in a vibrant atmosphere. Another popular event is the Celebration of Bubbles, which is part of the Seeing Red Wine Festival every November. This sparkling wine event brings champagne and sparkling wine fans together to sip, socialize, and enjoy light hors d’oeuvres against the stunning backdrop of Seaside.

These events capture the essence of Jim Shirley Enterprises: quality, community, and celebration. Whether attending one of these signature events or hosting your own, you can anticipate a truly extraordinary experience.

What truly distinguishes this business is its dedication to customization. Anderson and her team work in tandem with clients, including wedding planners and other event vendors, to ensure every aspect of the event showcases their personal tastes and preferences. “Our goal is to craft a seamless experience for every guest planning a special occasion,” she says. “From the moment they arrive, we want them to feel confident that every detail is being managed with precision.” Whether designing a signature cocktail or curating a custom menu, Chef Jim Shirley Enterprises excels at delivering genuinely personalized experiences. On-site amenities, such as built-in bars, mobile bars, private dining areas, and adaptable layouts, are offered to accommodate a variety of event sizes and preferences. With a list of trusted floral designers, tent and event rental services, and other vendors at their disposal, the events team is also equipped to coordinate every need should clients desire a one-stop shop for their special occasion. Their commitment to crafting unique experiences ensures that every guest departs with lasting memories. “We collaborate closely with couples and planners to bring their vision to life,” says Anderson, and this dedication is evident in every event.