Emerald Coast Magazine's Readers Choice Poll is held each June, and winners are announced the following October. The Best of the Emerald Coast event is held October 19th (details below). Prior to the big event, a Winners Orientation Cocktail Party and Awards Ceremony is held. I was able to attend the Winners Orientation with Best Local Artist Andy Saczynski (obviously, since we're married and whatnot).

Crab Island Cantina did a great job catering the Winners Orientation. The food was good and, let's face it, you can't beat their view of the Destin pass. It's THE place to catch a sunset in Destin! I don't know about you, but I think fresh pico de gallo and guacamole make the sunset at least 53% more enjoyable. Agree?

We had a lot of fun at the Winners Orientation. We shared a table with our friends Chris and Heather Thomas of Destin Vacation Boat Rentals and Shane and Bethany Keller of Rock the House. We laughed until my abs hurt!

The Best of the Emerald Coast event is next weekend! Andy will have a booth at the event, where he'll display a few of his favorite pieces. He also donated a gift card to the silent auction, so you can be looking for that.

Event Details: Saturday, October 19th 6:00-9:00 PM Grand Boulevard (Miramar Beach)

As you may recall, Andy was voted Best Local Artist in 2012, as well. We are honored!

To see a complete list of the 132 Best of the Emerald Coast 2013 winners, please visit Emerald Coast Magazine's web site.

Best of the Emerald Coast Winners Orientation