ABOUT ME
CONTENT CREATION AND STORYTELLING COMES NATURALLY TO ME. Over the years I’ve worked as a news anchor and reporter, and growing up I was involved in theatre and acting. I love to connect, engage and share meaningful messages with others. My lifestyle blog, SoSouthernBelle.com, originated as a creative outlet to share my love of fashion, travel, and personal development. Over the years it’s grown from being an outlet for myself to a resource for others, and I am so humbled by that. With my blog and social media platforms I highlight fun things to see and do in Tampa Bay and started a series on TikTok called “Around Tampa Bay” with a reach of over 20,000 viewers!
MY LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
I LOVE M.BIRD AT ARMATURE WORKS IN TAMPA FOR A NIGHT OUT. They have amazing drinks, a beautiful atmosphere, and at night you have such a stunning view of the city.
BRUNCH AT AMERICAN SOCIAL IS A MUST! I love the Maui Mimosa and country biscuits and gravy. Thank me later.
IF I HAD TO PICK TWO SPOTS FOR FINE DINING, they would be, handsdown, 400 Beach Seafood and Taphouse in St. Pete (I love their seafood linguini) and Bern’s Steak House in Tampa for their amazing wine selection, charcoal-grilled jumbo shrimp and sugar-free chocolate mousse.
FOR A HEALTHY SNACK, I LOVE A GOOD AÇAÍ BOWL! It’s fruit-based and filling. SOHO Juice Company on 4th Street North in St. Pete has a variety of bowls to choose from [Editor’s note: SOHO Juice Company also has locations in SoHo and at Armature Works].
FOR BEAUTY TREATMENTS, I LOVE MAISONGLO IN ST. PETE! They have a membership system set up where I can affordably care for my skin and customize my facials depending on my needs at the time. It’s so convenient!
MY STAYCATION SERIES ON MY BLOG IS ONE OF MY FAVORITES TO PRODUCE. It gives me the opportunity to be a tourist in my own backyard! Whether you’re a local looking for a staycation spot or a tourist visiting Tampa Bay, the staycation series is a great resource. My favorite staycation spot is the Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach. It’s an award-winning hotel with such a unique history and stunning decor.
TO SHOW OFF TAMPA, I TAKE VISITORS TO CHANNELSIDE — especially Sparkman Wharf, where we can enjoy the water views, grab a bite to eat and snap a photo in front of the hot pink “Tampa” sign.
SOME OF MY FAVORITE LOCAL SHOPS are Fab’rik in South Tampa for cute chic looks, Ashe Couture Boutique on Central Avenue in St. Pete for swimwear and Labelswap on West Kennedy Boulevard for upscale consignment finds!
TAMPA BAY IS FULL OF HIDDEN GEMS and places that highlight the rich culture of our area. If I’m looking to take in Southern cuisine, I rush to 7th + Grove in Ybor City or Chiefs Creole Café in St. Pete. They’re both thriving Black-owned businesses. If I want to enjoy a night out but with a more relaxed lounge vibe, you’ll find me a COPA on Central in St. Pete.
