7 Things Our Sarasota Editor Is Loving Right Now

Photography by Kathryn Brass-Piper Photography.

As advocates for small businesses, The Scout Guide editors are continually scouting their communities for local finds to share and celebrate. With their fingers on the pulse, they are also excellent sources of unique recommendations. Recently, we caught up with The Scout Guide Sarasota, Anna Maria Island to Boca Grande editor Nikki Logan Curran to find out what she’s really excited about these days. Here, she shares her current obsessions, from her favorite staycation spot to her go-to destination for antique finds and more.

1. What I’m hungry for

Eating like a local with Sarasota Manatee Originals // “With over 60 locally owned and operated restaurants, the Sarasota Manatee Originals site makes it easy to find the perfect bite. Rise and dine with weekend brunch at Libby’s Brasserie with bottomless mimosas, enjoy al fresco dining at Mattisons, feast on sushi and sake at Tsunami, sip craft libations at 1592 Woodfired Kitchen & Cocktails, enjoy a special date night at Sage, or dine with dolphins at one of our waterfront restaurants like Pop’s Sunset Grill, Shore LBK, or Mar Vista. There is no better way to  dive into the Florida Suncoast than to sink your teeth into the best local cuisine in the state.”

2. What I’m swooning over

Photography courtesy of The Gasparilla Inn & Club.

The Gasparilla Inn & Club // “I love the charm and history on Boca Grande and there is no better place to spend a romantic weekend! The Gasparilla Inn & Club, in its 107th season, is a classic ‘Old Florida’ resort with picturesque sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico. My husband, David, and I go a few times a year to soak up the sun and just relax at the Beach Club. We love riding around the island on a golf cart, popping in for a drink at Temptation Bar, and dining at the Pink Elephant. If you visit the west coast of Florida this is a must-stay vacay!” 

3. What I can’t live without

A day on the boat with SeaSucker Products // “Soaking in the island life is my favorite part about living on the coast of Florida. There is nothing I love more than a day on the boat with my friends and family and it’s not complete without my SeaSucker products! I love their cup and rod holders and dry boxes, but my favorite is the fish-cutting slab that I use solely for charcuterie. The best part is you can move them all over the boat and even to the outside while hanging out on the sandbar! This is the perfect gift for any holiday for your boat-loving friends.”

4. What I’m wearing

Photography courtesy of Jackie.

Styling subscription from Shop Jackie // “Every girl should have a personal stylist and Jackie’s styling subscription service is one I’ve been using for years. My stylist helps me with not only my day-to-day wardrobe but with my event looks, too. I love the personalized notes in each box that make me feel like I’m their only client. While they ship nationally, their headquarters is located right here in Bradenton, Florida, so I often pop in for a sneak peek or just to hang out with their fabulous team of women. Want to get inspired on what’s trending? Follow them on Instagram and you’ll fall in love too!”

5. What I’m collecting 

Antique jewelry from Sarasota Estate Auction // “From antique jewelry to asian artifacts, Sarasota Estate Auction is a collector’s dream. While their national auctions offer incredible lots, their Sarasota location is packed full of unique pieces I just love. Every piece has a story and I love sharing them with guests in our home!”

6. What I’m inspired by

Photography courtesy of Driftwood Beach Home and Garden.

Driftwood Beach Home and Garden // “This year I’ve been so inspired by the incredible network of female-owned businesses and how they have been so supportive of one another. There really is something special about coming together as a community and celebrating each other’s success. Driftwood Beach Home and Garden not only houses some of my favorite female designers like Emerson Fry and Beach to Bistro, but also sells numerous local female artisan products.”

7. What I’m decorating with

Tim Jaeger paintings // “I love art that makes me smile and Sarasota local Tim Jaeger’s paintings spark so much joy for so many people. Collectors love having a little slice of paradise on their walls. Jaeger’s paintings can be found in numerous public and private collections, including Walt Disney Resorts and across the nation.”

To keep up with Nikki’s current loves and all things local in Sarasota, follow The Scout Guide Sarasota, Anna Maria Island to Boca Grande on Instagram and visit sarasota.thescoutguide.com.