Carmen Foster is the visionary publisher of Destin City Lifestyle Magazine, infusing her work with a rich global perspective. Holding a BA degree from TESOL in London, with a background in sales and teaching Japanese-English speaking and writing, her journey has taken her from Romania to Italy, Tokyo to London, and, for the past three years, Destin, Florida. Fluent in four languages—English, Japanese, Italian, and Romanian—she excels at connecting with people from all walks of life, building bridges across cultures. Passionate about empowering women, Carmen creates opportunities for connection and growth, inspiring them to rise together. As co-founder of the Ladies Leadership Luncheon Organization, she champions collaboration and community, fostering a network of empowered women leaders in Destin and surrounding communities.

Melanie Gray is the Editor and Publication Director of Destin City Lifestyle Magazine, where she leads editorial strategy, content development, and advertising initiatives. She oversees the creation of engaging, high-quality content that highlights Destin’s residents, businesses, and culture while ensuring a seamless integration of advertising partnerships. Melanie collaborates closely with local businesses to develop compelling ad content that aligns with the magazine’s aesthetic and audience. She manages the ad creation process from concept to publication, ensuring consistency and effectiveness. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and an Associate’s in Arts, she brings a creative and strategic approach to both editorial and advertising content.

Julie Gracela Webb, founder and CEO of Advanced Sacred Hope Academy and Advanced Behavioral Health Analysis, holds a Master’s in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, completed BCBA coursework at Florida Institute of Technology, and earned a Bachelor’s in International Studies from the University of West Florida. Licensed in mental health counseling since 2015 and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst since 2017, Julie thrives as an educator, counselor, consultant, researcher, and devoted mother to four children and a dog. Recognizing Northwest Florida’s need for specialized education, she created Advanced Sacred Hope Academy, a school blending early education with behavior therapy to ease transitions into middle and high school. Julie fosters a nurturing environment where students feel valued and loved, emphasizing child-centered education that honors intellectual and emotional integrity. Her core values—therapy for behavior challenges and support for school-aged children—form the foundation of the academy, offering hope and stability to students facing behavioral difficulties.

Galina Wells is an award-winning portrait photographer specializing in magazine-style photoshoots, headshots, and personal branding. She is a certified professional photographer with the Professional Photographers of America. Galina has a unique ability to transform everyday women into the stars of their own stories, creating elegant, timeless portraits that radiate confidence and sophistication. Through expert posing, styling, and lighting, Galina offers a luxury studio experience designed to make you feel empowered, radiant, and effortlessly beautiful. Whether you are celebrating yourself, building your personal brand, or enhancing your professional image, Galina ensures you leave with portraits that make a lasting impact. You deserve to be seen—allow Galina to capture the most powerful and authentic version of you.

Felicia Cassandra is a highly respected makeup artist with 16 years of artistry experience. She began her career in Las Vegas, perfecting her craft in runway shows and magazine artistry before specializing in high-fashion bridal makeup. As an educator, Felicia has trained artists for luxury brands like Givenchy, Kylie Cosmetics, Gucci, Urban Decay, Too faced and Charlotte Tilbury.

Felicia travels the beauty stores and salons throughout Florida making artistry appearances to share tips and techniques and glam brides. Felicia founded Cool Jelly skincare for her clients and partnered ‘Beachy Glam Brides’ with wedding coordinator Lindsey Haagoods ‘Bride on a Budget’ wedding coordination creating Fairytales on the emerald coast.

Felicia collaborates with Destin Lifestyle Magazine and Ladies Leadership, as a makeup artist and highlighting Destin's businesswomen.

Sally Foster, an Okaloosa County resident, is excited to join the Ladies of Leadership Luncheons to elevate the community. A passionate dog lover, she supports Saving with Soul, where Jennifer and her team of volunteers and fosters transform lives at their Fort Walton Beach and Baker locations and beyond. Sally’s rescue dogs, Flex and Xena, fuel her advocacy—Flex even shines as the mascot at Flex Fitness in Crestview and Freeport, gyms championing bully breeds. With her expertise in banquet event coordination, Sally is eager to create inspiring, impactful events for the group. Her dedication to community upliftment and animal welfare drives her commitment to fostering connection and positivity through these luncheons.

Maria Charissa Serondo, originally from the Philippines ,a Virtual Assistant and Social Media Manager, leverages her skills to boost the luncheon’s reach. With years of experience, she excels in driving engagement and building online presence. “Supporting inspiring women through strategic social media is incredibly rewarding,” she shares. Managing tools like Instagram, Trello, and Mailchimp, Maria ensures businesses connect effectively with their audiences. Her problem-solving and adaptability amplify the voices of women leaders, fostering growth and connection.