Author: Jasmine

Neal Communities Celebrates 20 Years of Holiday Art Competitions with Local Elementary Schools

LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. – Neal Communities, Southwest Florida’s premier, private homebuilder, hosted its 20^th annual My Favorite Home art contest on Wednesday, December 4.

Each year, the homebuilder donates $1,500 to a local elementary school and partners with the school’s art department to design the Neal Communities and Neal Signature Homes holiday cards. This year, the homebuilder partnered with Venice Elementary School.

Students from kindergarten to fifth grade used a variety of themes to create their own vision of their favorite home. Students created house boats, futuristic homes, their dream home design and more using a variety of art mediums according to their grade level.

“It was amazing to watch the students’ creative processes and listen to the great ideas they came up with, as each grade level took a slightly different take on their idea of a dream home,” said Heather Young, Venice Elementary School’s art teacher. “It was a challenge to choose just ten finalists from each grade level.”

“Each student did a fantastic job of bringing their vision of their favorite home to life in a very unique way,” said Pat Neal, Founder and Chairman of Neal Communities. “We’re happy to support the art curriculum for our local students through this annual contest.”

The Neal Communities $1,500 donation will benefit the school’s art department through supply purchases or curriculum supplements for the school year.

December 10, 2019
Ultimate Backyard Retreat Tips
It’s like a mini-vacation, but in your own backyard! Your style mixed with our expertise will have you getting the most out of your yard and home. We want to help you get the most out of the Florida lifestyle, so please take these tips into consideration when building your own piece of paradise!

Spring for the Water Feature

If you’re building a pool, consider a water feature – or three. Not only do they look nice and add a touch of glamour to a pool, water features keep your pool water moving, which helps fight off stagnation and sounds very relaxing as well!

Don’t Dig Too Deep

Too many pool-buyers think they need a deep end with a diving board. The vast majority of your pool time will be spent in the shallow end, so don’t devote too much to deep waters.

Materials Matter

Whatever style you pick, invest in high-quality lounge chairs. For example, if you like wood, try something like teak that can stand up to the Florida sun.

Make It Movable

Chances are you’ll be your own pool attendant, so look for light-weight loungers. This way you can easily keep up with the sun as it moves. If you’re looking for something with 360 degree shade, try a cantilever outdoor umbrella.

Keep Things in Arm’s Reach

The secret to being a grillmaster is staying organized and keeping things close at hand. If you don’t have good counter space around your grill, invest in a nice bar cart for your tools, spices and more.

Have a Seat, You Earned It

The other secret to manning the BBQ like a pro is keeping a comfy chair nearby. No one wants to be on their feet all day – especially a day off – so have somewhere to sit between burger flips.

Comfort is King

Patio furniture comes in all shapes and sizes, so try before you buy to make sure you like the cushion depth, material and softness. After all, you’re the one who has to sit there.

Versatility is Queen

For smaller spaces, think about a setup that you can easily reconfigure. That could mean a table with extendable leaves, or modular seating good for both lounging and dining. This lets you switch from conversation place to dining setup with no fuss.

Even Florida Gets Chilly

Sure, Florida is known for warmth, but there are plenty of nights in Florida that qualify as fire pit nights. And nothing is cozier than sitting outside roasting marshmallows on a cool tropical evening.

Think About Longevity

Fire pits can be metal, brick, stone and more. Whatever material you choose, make sure it is high-quality and made to last (it will be on fire, after all). Keep in mind that cheaper metal fire pits are especially prone to rusting, and before you know it, the money you “saved” will be spent on a replacement.

And finally, we get to what’s really important – games! Not everyone swims or eats BBQ or likes to just sit and talk, but everyone loves a good game. Have a few go-to outdoor games that you can break out to get everyone involved in the fun, like:
- Mini putting green
- Giant game of jenga
- Oversized checkers
- Classic cornhole
December 9, 2019
Neal Communities Helps with Food Bank of Manatee

Neal Communities Helps Fill Empty Bowls with the Food Bank of Manatee

LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. Neal Communities, Southwest Florida’s premier, private homebuilder, has sponsored the 19th annual Empty Bowls Luncheon with the Food Bank of Manatee for the eighth year in a row. The sponsorship included a $2,500 donation to the organization.

The luncheon, held on Lakewood Ranch’s Main Street on November 22, was hosted by the Food Bank of Manatee, a program of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee.

“Neal Communities has been sponsoring Empty Bowls since 2012,” said Judi Bjork, Vice President of Events and Volunteer Engagement with Meals on Wheels PLUS. “We are so grateful for their support and dedication to our largest fundraiser for the Food Bank of Manatee.”

Empty Bowls was created to celebrate gains in hunger relief in Manatee County and serves as the largest fundraiser for the Food Bank of Manatee. At the luncheon, participants enjoyed soups, breads and desserts made by local restaurants and brought home a hand-painted bowl.

“The Food Bank of Manatee provides an incredible service to our community by providing nutritious food to those in need, and we’re grateful to offer our support,” said Mike Storey, President of Neal Communities. “Hunger is a very harsh reality that many families struggle with, and the Empty Bowls luncheon helps fill the need through fundraising and awareness.”

The Food Bank of Manatee provides nutrition and supportive services to the community. As the largest hunger-relief organization based in Manatee County, it has provided over 30 million pounds of food since 1985 for local children, families and seniors.

For more information or to make a donation, visit Food Bank of Manatee.

December 3, 2019
Make Ahead Thanksgiving Side Dishes

One day you’re carving pumpkins, the next, you’re prepping dishes for Thanksgiving! Don’t get caught up in the hassle of holiday cooking. Get ahead of schedule by whipping up these make ahead dishes leading up to Thanksgiving. They will pair perfectly with your turkey and save you lots of time so you can mingle with family before the meal.

Dinner Rolls with Whipped Honey Butter

The ultimate compliment to any meal. Prepare the rolls in advance and store in the freezer for up to two months. You might as well double the batch and save some for Christmas! What really takes these light and fluffy bread rolls to the next level is the whipped honey butter.

Sausage Stuffing

Stress less by getting this stuffing halfway done before Thanksgiving. This savory stuffing is loaded with sage, thyme and sweet Italian sausage. It’s a classic comfort side dish with a Southern twist.

Stovetop Whipped Sweet Potatoes

Make this scrumptious side a few days before the big day and reheat over a low heat on a stovetop.These whipped sweet potatoes are drizzled with a mixture of butter, maple syrup and pecans upon being served.

Green Bean Casserole

Get ready to replace your go-to green bean casserole recipe with this one. Made with fresh green beans, a smooth cream cheese sauce and topped with fried leaks. The leeks give the casserole a more elegant look opposed to canned fried onions. Everyone will be asking for you to share the recipe as soon as they scoop it on to their plate.

Broccoli and Bussels Sprouts Slaw

This crisp and crunchy slaw makes a nice contrast alongside a spread of richly indulgent dishes. Refrigerating the chopped marinated vegetables overnight gives them a more soft texture and allows the raw broccoli and brussels sprouts to soak up all the flavor.

November 20, 2019
DIY Halloween Decorations

Halloween is creeping up, no pun intended. Is your home ready? From paper bats to painted pumpkins, we’ve done our research and rounded up the most time efficient and easy to make Halloween decorations! Unleash your creative side with these simple DIY Halloween decorations to set the spooky mood in your home.

Paper BatsThese fluttering winged critters are an asset to any space. Paste them on a vacant wall or hang them from the ceiling to mimic them in their natural habitat, grazing across the night sky.

Painted PumpkinsYou won’t be needing to gather a knife, scoop, or chisel to decorate your pumpkins for this craft. Set the pumpkin carving kit aside this year and make one of these stunning painted pumpkins instead. Peruse through these pumpkins in the hopes that they’ll inspire you to create something truly special with your family this October.

Mini Ghost GarlandThe mini ghosts on this Halloween banner are a cute and quick addition to a styled mantel, cart, or simply haunting on a wall or door. All you need to make this banner is some cheesecloth, plastic golf balls, hot glue, and a black marker.

Skeleton Bubble BathThis cute and clever skeleton will be the epicenter of your home decor. If you wanted to make it a little spookier, consider adding a smoke machine and a black light. You could even set up a speaker to play bubbling noises on loop to bring the scene to life.

October 25, 2019
Neal Communities Donates to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Neal Communities Donates $3,355 to American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. – October 22, 2019 – Neal Communities team members have raised $3,355 for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, an initiative of the American Cancer Society.

The Neal Communities team, Building Hope with Pink Pride, raised the funds in support of associates, family and friends who have been affected by cancer. The team was organized by Raylene Gaines, office manager at Charlene Neal PureStyle, a company within the Neal Communities umbrella.

Gaines first started a team when her hairdresser was diagnosed with breast cancer, and continued fundraising when later her mother was diagnosed with the disease.

“Support for the American Cancer Society is very personal to me,” said Gaines. “While my mother is fortunately in remission, others still succumb to the disease. The cancer society’s commitment to research and treatment is so crucial.”

For more information or to make a donation to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, visit the American Cancer Society website.

October 23, 2019
Neal Communities Donates to Jack & Jill of America

Neal Communities Donates $2,500 to the Suncoast Chapter of Jack & Jill of America, Inc.

LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. – September 24, 2019 – Neal Communities, Southwest Florida’s premier, private homebuilder, has contributed $2,500 to the Suncoast Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

Jack and Jill of America is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2-19, dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.

Neal Communities Area Sales Manager, Elayne McKinney, serves as the current local chapter president.

“I grew up as a member of Jack and Jill of America in New Jersey,” said Elayne McKinney. “When my family moved to Florida, we didn’t have a local chapter, so my mother pioneered the start-up of the Suncoast Chapter almost 30 years ago.”

McKinney’s eight-year-old daughter is now involved in Jack and Jill of America, donating her time to after-school programs that provide weekend snacks for kids in poverty.

“When we look at our charitable giving opportunities, we start by considering the organizations that have had a significant impact on our team members,” said Pat Neal, Founder and Chairman of Neal Communities. “We’re proud to support organizations like Jack and Jill that have provided invaluable leadership and community-minded skills to their participants.”

For more information or to make a donation to Jack and Jill of America, please visit http://jackandjillsuncoast.org/.

September 25, 2019
Fall Favorites

It’s time to swap out your swimsuits for sweaters because as of Monday, fall has officially arrived. Get in the festive feel by scrolling through our fall must-haves. Here’s some of our favorite recipes and decorations that will transform your home for the autumnal season.

Plaid Throw

Prep for cooler temperatures with this exceedingly soft Magali Plaid Faux Mohair Throw. Not only is it cozy to lounge in, but it’s also a stylish addition to a couch, armchair or bench along with some neutral colored throw pillows.

Harvest Bowls

Every fall ingredient comes together to make this bountiful and delicious harvest bowl. The recipe features bite-sized bits of brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, chicken and kale all compiled over a bed of brown rice with a tangy dressing. This dish is just as hearty as it is aesthetically fit for fall.

Spicy Apple Candle

Rosy Rings Spicy Apple Candle smells like a fresh baked apple pie cooling on a windowsill. It’s a familiar, homey, inviting scent that will fill your entire home each time you burn it. Maybe stock up on a few, because these are bound to become your new household staple for the season.

Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Just like your mom made, but dare we say, better? These Rice Krispie Treats are made with brown butter, double the marshmallows, a touch of vanilla, and brown Rice Krispies. They’re sweet, salty and easy to whip up. Whether you’re making them last minute for a school event or an upcoming football tailgate, they’re a definite crowd pleaser.

German Glitter Pumpkins

These German Glitter Pumpkins add a shimmering element to seasonal décor. They have detailed, scrolling stems for a touch of fairytale fantasy. Place them out by your front door or in your home to keep all season long.

September 24, 2019
Marvel in Milano
limited opportunities remain to own a new home in Milano.

The Tuscan-styled neighborhood is located in Venice, Florida and features flexible floor plans ideal for families of all sizes. There’s a lot we can say about Milano, but rather than writing a novel on why you should move here, we’ll make this read a quick one. Here’s some fast, fun facts about the coveted community:
- Milano occupies 383-acres of land.
- The community is a 15 minute drive away from the top rated restaurant in Venice.
- Daily activities are planned and coordinated by an on-site Lifestyle Director.
- It’s a 5 minute drive to the Venetian Golf and River Club and less than a 20 minute drive to Venice Beach.
- The community is considerately eco-friendly. It was intentionally positioned to conserve the area’s wetlands.
- Scenic ponds are scattered across the area and are an essential feature for avid walkers.
- Residents have full access to the amenity center which features a clubhouse, outdoor pavilion, resort-style pool, Pickleball court and a bocce ball court.
Get a feel for the community by scheduling a tour on our website or with our virtual tour that will give you a glimpse into the homes, amenities and surrounding area.

A ogni uccello il suo nido è bello is the Italian equivalent to “home sweet home”. We hope you find yours in Milano.
September 12, 2019
Sarasota Magazine – PureStyle’s Charlene Neal on Five In-Demand Interior Design Trends

With Charlene Neal 9/3/2019 at 8:40am

Mixed metal finishes, performance fabrics and more.

Responsible for creating beautiful spaces for Neal Communities and Neal Signature Homes, Charlene Neal has a constant pulse on new trends in interior design and classical styles that homebuyers still love. Here is her take on the five most in-demand interior design trends in Sarasota.

IMAGE: COURTESY CHARLENE NEAL

White kitchen cabinets are still going strong both with traditional door profiles and modern flat panels. White cabinets give an open concept kitchen a sleek and cohesive look that will visually expand the space. It’s also a blank canvas for colorful accents.

IMAGE: COURTESY CHARLENE NEAL

Solid surface materials versus natural granite and marble provides a consistent, even look. I’m especially drawn to it because it creates an invisibly seamed countertop that requires virtually zero maintenance. Some are created with leathered finishes. How stylish is that?

IMAGE: COURTESY CHARLENE NEAL

Mixed metal finishes and accents, if done right, will give the room a layered and curated over-time look, and the end result will be chic and elegant. Gold finishes both in brushed and polished are showing up in plumbing and lighting fixtures.

IMAGE: COURTESY CHARLENE NEAL

Making every detail count in a bathroom designed to feel like a spa—from the color on the walls, to natural elements and of course, the overhead rain shower head—will wash away a hectic day and be a perfect space to unwind.

IMAGE: COURTESY CHARLENE NEAL

Choosing performance fabrics makes our lives easier. Products such as Crypton, Sunbrella and Revolution have such fabulous selections that it’s an obvious choice. Its stylish elegance meets function so you can live to the fullest without fear.

September 5, 2019