From the Publishers: New Year, New Discoveries

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As the New Year rolls in, one of my go-to resolutions is always to travel more. Last summer, my husband David, fellow publisher Andie, and her husband Chris took an unforgettable trip to Flathead Lake, Montana. Wow, what a stunning place! It’s nearly six times larger than Smith Mountain Lake, so we only scratched the surface of what there is to see and do, but it left us in awe and eager for more adventures.

If you’re looking to kick off 2025 with a focus on improving your health and wellness, check out our SML Fitness Guide (page 24) for a roundup of local spots to nourish your body, mind and spirit, along with tips to help you stay active during the chillier months.

From left, Chris and Andie Gibson, Jennifer and David Church rep Smith Mountain Lake while on vacation at Flathead Lake, Montana, last summer. Get your ‘I Love SML’ t-shirt at ShopSML.com.

We’re also excited to share a feature on the arts scene at Smith Mountain Lake (page 16). There’s so much creativity in our community, and we can’t wait for you to dive in. Plus, don’t miss our SML Wedding Special Section (page 30), where we showcase three breathtaking lakeside weddings and highlight the wide variety of venues available here—ranging from rustic charm to upscale elegance and everything in between.

Thank you all for your amazing support and feedback on SML Insiders! Your kind words mean the world to us, and we’re committed to bringing you content that helps you enjoy everything our beautiful area has to offer. Cheers to a winter filled with warmth, wellness and a little adventure!

Jennifer Church
Co-Publisher

SML Insiders owner Andie Gibson and Jennifer Church

Andie & Jennifer

Publishers
Smith Mountain Lake Insiders’ Guide

Find out more about us and our love of Smith Mountain Lake, gleaned over more than 30 years of living here.