Alaqua Animal Refuge’s Laurie Hood
The 4th Annual Sip n Shop is one fabulous day of shopping, eating, and of course, sipping… and it’s all for a fantastic cause.
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is sponsoring this year’s event, which will be held at the bay-front LeCiel Ballroom on Friday, April 4th from 11am to 3pm.
Part of the big Chi Chi Miguel Throwdown weekend on April 4th and 5th, Sip n Shop brings together excellent wine, food, local businesses, designers and artists. All proceeds from the event will benefit the abused, neglected, and abandoned animals that are cared for every day at Alaqua Animal Refuge.
Since 2011, this annual event has raised over $1.6 million for Gulf Coast charities. Last year alone, the Throwdown event raised over $826,000.
This year, winemakers Mike Haney from Black Dog Cellars and Seth Cripe from Lola will be there personally pouring their wines. Mike started Black Dog Cellars in 2009 to provide customers with world-class wines that celebrate and reflect his passion and enthusiasm for family, friends, wine, food and life. Mike is an avid animal supporter and Alaqua is the chosen charity of Black Dog Cellars in Northwest Florida. Seth founded Lola in 2008 and prides himself on making approachable wines that everyone can enjoy. Seth is an animal lover who branded his winery and product after his own dog, Lola.
While sipping on such fine wines, guests will be able to visit with local merchants, including designer Nicole Paloma (2012 Artist of the Year), Andy Saczynski, Destin Jewelers, Sirens at the Beach lingerie boutique, Sarah Carolyn Jewelry, Pure Barre, and Pish Posh Patchouli’s. Dr. Wiebe of Santa Rosa Beach Dental will be there, and Regatta Chiropractic and Laser Center will offer massages. There will also be a fashion show by local lifeguards, and a three-course meal by Chef Jay Kirwin, Executive Chef at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.
There will also be a silent auction loaded with some amazing items, including a beautiful beach cruiser valued at $700 from Big Daddy’s Bike Shop, a bonfire on the beach from Grayton Beach Catering, a family portrait session by Steve Wells Photography, tons of gift cards to local shops and restaurants and much more.
