
Melissa Sullivan, a Tequesta resident and alum of The Benjamin School and UF, is at the helm of SunFest publicity and marketing. (Bruce R. Bennett / Palm Beach Post)
THE SCENE MAKER:
MELISSA SULLIVAN
WHO SHE IS: The Tequesta resident sits at the helm of the SunFest publicity and marketing efforts.
“My work is never done,” she says.
The popular music festival, held in downtown West Palm Beach May 2-6 this year, continues to grow, even after 30 years. Sullivan is a local who attended the Benjamin School and the University of Florida. She moved back to the area after living in Chicago for six years but says she finds it a different place than she remembered when she was a teen.
“Some of the best parts? The people, the climate and natural surroundings and relatively small-town feel still remains.”
She has one son, Jack, age 8.
A few of her favorite things:
• FAVORITE BREAKFAST PLACE? The Gallery Grille in Tequesta without question.
> The Gallery Grille, 383 Tequesta Drive Tequesta. Info: (561) 575-3775; www.gallerygrille.com | Directions, invite a friend
But, I also like to take my son to the Jupiter Donut Factory. It’s a small mom and pop business and it reminds me of Wally’s Donuts that was in the same location when I was young.
> Jupiter Donut Factory, 141 Center Street, Jupiter. Info: (561) 741-5290. | Directions, invite a friend
• FAVORITE BOUTIQUE OR STORE FOR BROWSING OR BUYING? I love Belle Maison in Jupiter. Jana Bobek has the unique finds for gifts, and also cute selection of clothes. I also find some adorable things at Jupiter Inlet Car Wash – they have the most amazing gift shop with bags, cover-ups, gifts etc. I sometimes even go there when I don’t need my car washed!
> Belle Maison, 2121 S. U.S. 1 Jupiter. Info: (561) 743-2854
> Jupiter Inlet Car Wash, 1441 N Alt. A1A, Jupiter. (561) 746-2200
• FAVORITE PLACE FOR A QUIET DINNER? Home. Schedules dictate being on the go so much that a low-key night at home is precious. But I do enjoy catching up with friends at Too Bizaare in Jupiter.
> Too Bizaare, # 2B, 287 E. Indiantown Road, Jupiter. Info: (561) 745-6262; toobizaare.com | Directions, invite a friend
• FAVORITE RESTAURANT TO TAKE OUT OF TOWN GUESTS? Jetty’s view is unrivaled and the food never disappoints. I also like to take people who are visiting with kids to Vic & Angelos. The food is delicious and the outside set-up is casual and comfortable, which makes for a good night for kids and adults alike.
> Jetty’s, 1075 N A1A, Jupiter. Info: (561) 743-8166. | Directions, invite a friend
> Vic & Angelos, 4520 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens. Info: (561) 630-9899; vicandangelos.com | Directions, invite a friend
• FAVORITE ANNUAL EVENT? Other than SunFest?? One of my favorite fund-raisers is The Kravis Center’s Reach for the Stars. It’s such an energetic and fun mix of fun and food. I hold a soft spot in my heart for (Kravis’ CEO) Judy Mitchell and her team, having served as their publicist.
> The Kravis Center Reach for the Stars “Dancing for the Stars” Ballroom Dance Competition, and an evening of gourmet food and fine wine, takes place Saturday at the Kravis Center.
• FAVORITE PLACE TO RELAX AND RECHARGE? The beach. I have some connection to the beach and ocean. Spending time there for a walk or to take in the ocean always recharges my soul. I am also an avid reader. Reading is such an indulgence and a pleasure. When I take time to read, I always feel rejuvenated.