Share with your friends!
PinterestLinkedInFlipboardReddit

As 2025 rounds the corner, we’re reflecting on the stories that have captivated our readers throughout this last year. From starting conversations and inspiring creativity to keeping you informed about all things Magic City (and adding a little extra joy to your feed!), here are StyleBlueprint Birmingham’s 10 most popular articles of 2024 — beginning with our reader favorite!

7 New Restaurants in Birmingham

Birmingham’s food scene heated up 2024 with an array of dining destinations. From the much-anticipated return of a cherished breakfast spot to bold international cuisine, these restaurants promise to make 2025 a year full of delicious discoveries for every palate. See the lineup HERE.

A modern bar interior in Birmingham restaurants showcases a marble countertop, striped cushioned bar stools, and a well-stocked glass shelf of assorted bottles beneath large spherical pendant lights.Pin
Designed by Christopher Architecture & Interiors, the Armour House’s bar offers a cozy and refined setting, perfect for savoring a cocktail or wine from its extensive 300+ label list. Image: Eleven Productions

What Happens to Health as We Age

Prioritizing health becomes more complex with age — from your 30s through your 70s and beyond — but expert guidance can simplify the journey. Dr. Joseph Wu of Birmingham’s Brightmark Health shares essential tips for managing wellness through every stage of life. Read the full article HERE.

In a clinical setting, a healthcare professional measures a patient's blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer, addressing any questions about maintaining healthy levels.Pin
Dr. Joseph Wu recommends getting frequent blood pressure checks. “Use one of those blood pressure cuffs in the grocery store just to get an estimate of your baseline,” he advises. “I always recommend taking a few deep breaths to calm your heart rate so you get as accurate a reading as possible.” Image: Pexels

6 Spots for Afternoon Tea in Birmingham

There’s something timelessly charming about afternoon tea, and Birmingham offers plenty of ways to indulge. From delicate finger sandwiches to perfectly brewed teas (or something stronger), these six local spots make every occasion feel special. Sip, savor, and celebrate 2025 in style — because a touch of luxury is always in season! Read the full article HERE.

Afternoon tea set up with cakes and treats.Pin
The Anvil Pub & Grill celebrates the quintessential English tea tradition, which dates back to 1662 when tea was first introduced to the royal court in England. Image: Facebook

Look Inside This Cozy Lake Martin Cabin

There’s a difference between a house on the lake and a true lake house, and Lake Martin’s charm proves it. Russell Lands — one of the South’s largest recreational developers — has been introducing cozy cabins along its stunning shoreline and quickly gained popularity for its timeless designs. One of these gems made its way to the StyleBlueprint family, and we were thrilled to share its story. Check it out HERE.

A cozy living room in a Lake Martin cabin features a stone fireplace, a chandelier, wooden beams, white sofas, wooden armchairs, various lamps, a television on the right, and decorative rugs on a hardwood floor.Pin
Russell Lands tapped famed Montgomery architect Bobby McAlpline to help create an “updated” cabin layout that maintained the quaint feel of the lake’s rustic cabins from decades past. Image: Dustin Adams

She Elevates Tom Beckbe’s Outdoor Apparel

Mary Menge’s journey from NYC attorney to Southern entrepreneur began with a quest for the perfect field jacket. That search led to the creation of Tom Beckbe, a high-end sportswear brand known for its timeless “Tensaw Jacket” and quality gear. We caught up with Mary to learn more about her story, entrepreneurial advice, and life behind this beloved Southern brand. Discover this inspiring FACE of the South HERE.

Mary Menge, co-owner of Tom Beckbe, wearing a jacket and patterned scarf, leans on a green vehicle outdoors, looking thoughtfully at the camera.Pin
Mary Menge, co-owner of Tom Beckbe. Image: William Hereford

Your Guide to Birmingham Trivia Nights

Looking for a fun midweek pick-me-up? Birmingham’s trivia nights offer the perfect blend of food, drinks, and friendly competition. Gather your dream team and test your knowledge at these must-try trivia spots! See the full list HERE.

A person in Birmingham holds a popular chicken sandwich with lettuce and tomato, placed on branded paper, with a grilled lemon wedge on the side. In the background, another person enjoys pasta, setting the scene for a tasty 2024 dining experience.Pin
Around a table at Saw’s BBQ, trivia champions are born. Image: Instagram

11 Places to Order Premade Meals in Birmingham

Looking for a break from meal planning? These premade meal providers in the Magic City offer delicious options, with convenient delivery or pickup services to suit your needs. Let them handle the prep so you can enjoy stress-free dining throughout 2025. Read the article HERE.

A hand holding a popular biscuit sandwich filled with salmon and seeds hovers above a pile of similar sandwiches on a cloth, capturing the culinary vibe of Birmingham in 2024.Pin
From scrumptious bakes to delectable handhelds like these Hot Ham & Swiss Minis, Ashley Mac’s has ready-to-eat goodness for every occasion. Image: Instagram

11 Alabama Distilleries You Need to Know

Alabama distilleries have overcome decades of complex laws and regulations, fueled by the passion of those crafting exceptional spirits. From honoring moonshining traditions to turning hobbies into thriving businesses, these distillers have stories worth sharing. Explore eight must-visit distilleries across the state, plus three standout Alabama-based brands to add to your radar. Read more HERE.

An oak barrel holding six bottles of bourbonPin
Find Dettling 1867 spirits throughout Alabama and beyond and enjoy this field-to-bottle whiskey from Escambia County. Image: Facebook

English Village Lane: Custom-Made Rugs Out of Birmingham

Birmingham’s first custom rug design studio — English Village Lane — opened in the bustling Downtown district, blending seamlessly with its creative neighbors. Founded by Angie Burge, this studio celebrates “the love of the loom” with its colorful, bespoke designs. Meet Angie and discover the artistry behind this unique addition to the Magic City HERE.

Two women posing in a bohemian-style interior with a wall of decorative tiles, sitting near a wooden table with wicker chairs.Pin
Owner Angie Burge (left) and Design Consultant Claire Cole (right) pose in front of English Village Lane‘s beautiful rug wall (complete with a custom library ladder in their signature blue!). Image: Cailin Jones

A Serene Summer Wedding at the Birmingham Museum of Art

Elise and Jackson Hedden’s summer wedding at the Birmingham Museum of Art beautifully combined natural beauty with stunning design. Step inside their picture-perfect celebration at this iconic venue HERE.

A bride and groom in formal wedding attire hold hands while walking outdoors past a colorful mural near the Birmingham Museum of Art. The bride carries a bouquet, and both are smiling.Pin
After setting their sights on an outdoor venue, the couple decided the Birmingham Museum of Art was the perfect spot. Image: Abby Lee Photography

Thank you to all of our Birmingham readers. Wishing you a happy, healthy, and stylish new year!

**********

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @StyleBlueprint!

Author: Anne Marie Hanna
About the Author
Anne Marie Hanna