Page 10 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2026

PUBLISHER: MICHAEL SUNDERMAN michael@m2mediacorp.com
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: MARY SUNDERMAN mary@m2mediacorp.com
EDITOR: KELSEY SUNDERMAN-FOSTER editor@m2mediacorp.com
BUSINESS MANAGER: AMY CHATAGINER manager@m2mediacorp.com
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: LORI BETH SUSMAN loribeth@m2mediacorp.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES:
SUZETTE CARLSON suzette@m2mediacorp.com 228.669.3335
JENNIFER COX jennifer@m2mediacorp.com 228.697.5119
JIM MCCLOSKEY jim@m2mediacorp.com 228.297.1173
DESIGNERS:
BRIAN TREADAWAY brian@m2mediacorp.com
JOHN SUKMANN john@m2mediacorp.com
KEVIN BROUILLETTE II kevin@m2mediacorp.com
CONTRIBUTORS:
John N. Felsher Chelsea Gieselmann Holly Harrison
Joey Lee
Lynn Lofton
Dr. Nickie Harris-Ray Anne Pitre
Victoria Snyder Shannon Stage Barbara Travis
Cherie Ward
Gaye Winter
PHOTOGRAPHERS:
James Edward Bates Nadiya Copeland Angela Russo Dees John Fitzhugh Sabrina Marie Candance Riser Madeline Romano Fred Salinas Katherine Sowers Katherine Swetman Arielle Victoria
CONTACT
Editorial Office
12268 Intraplex Parkway Gulfport, MS 39503
Office Phone: 228.385.7703 Office Fax: 228.385.7705 Website: www.smliving.net
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Copyright, 2026
South Mississippi Living is owned and published by
M2 Media Corp. The contents of South Mississippi Living are copyrighted. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in part or whole without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.
FROM THE editor’s desk What I
About This Issue
February always arrives with a certain kind of magic. There’s romance in the air, creativity on full display, and a sense that beauty—whether found in fashion, love stories, or everyday moments—is meant to be celebrated. This issue of South Mississippi Living embraces all of it.
At the heart of this month’s magazine is The
Look Book, our beauty and fashion edition, where inspiration takes center stage. From fresh takes on style to approachable beauty trends, this section is
all about confidence, self-expression, and feeling like the best version of yourself—whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or simply elevating your everyday look.
Romance also plays a starring role in our Romance & Wedding special section. February feels like the perfect time to celebrate love in all its forms—from engagements and weddings to the small, meaningful moments that make relationships last. Whether you’re planning a wedding, dreaming about one, or love attending them, you’ll find plenty to inspire you here.
Our cover captures that spirit beautifully. Engaged couple Brad Patano and Michelle Palestina were kind enough to step in front of the camera for our Mardi Gras–themed fashion shoot. Shot at os1515, with stunning jewelry from Pav & Broome, Michelle’s gown from DeJaVu Boutique, Brad’s tux from Price & Co., and Michelle’s hair and makeup by Haus
of Locks, the shoot is a true collaboration of local talent—and a joyful nod to Carnival season on the Coast. Special thanks to our photographers, Arielle Victoria and Madeline Romano, for capturing each and every detail.
Of course, you’ll still find the sections you know and love throughout this issue. From community spotlights and coastal living features to food, leisure, and shopping finds, these pages are designed to keep you connected to what’s happening across South Mississippi.
Kelsey Sunderman-Foster
“Fashion is about dressing according
to what’s fashionable. Style
is more about” being yourself.
– Oscar de la Renta
Kelsey Sunderman-Foster
Editor
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10 | February 2026
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living