Mary Beth Cooper smiling at an SRQ Wine event in Sarasota

Meet the editor

A Sarasota Superfan With a Press Pass

Some people visit Sarasota and fall in love. I visited, fell hard and apparently decided I needed to tell everyone else about it.

Fair warning: Spend five minutes with me and I'll probably recommend a restaurant, tell you which beach fits your mood or introduce you to someone fascinating. I can't help myself. There is always something—or someone—worth discovering here.

I began my career as a newspaper journalist and went on to work as a magazine writer and public relations professional. Through it all, I never lost my love for finding the story beneath the surface. I still believe the best stories begin with curiosity, a good question and the understanding that there is always more to discover—even in a city the whole world already loves.

Sarasota and Me brings all of that experience—and all of my enthusiasm—to the city I love.

Why Sarasota and Me

A Personal Guide With a Journalist's Eye

I created the kind of publication I want when I visit somewhere new: beautiful enough to make me want to book the trip, useful enough to help me plan it and personal enough to feel like a trusted friend is showing me around.

Sarasota and Me celebrates everything people already love about this city—the white-sand beaches, sparkling water, incredible restaurants, vibrant arts scene and sunsets that make everyone stop talking for a minute.

But I also want to take you beyond the Sarasota you already know.

I'll introduce you to fascinating locals, unexpected places, wonderful small businesses and experiences you might never discover on your own. Because Sarasota isn't simply a pretty place to visit. It has personality, creativity and a spirit all its own.

Whether you're planning your first trip, returning to a favorite place or lucky enough to live right here on the Gulf Coast, I hope Sarasota and Me helps you discover something new—and gives you another reason to love this city as much as I do.

Come explore with me

There is always another Sarasota story waiting.

I'm so glad you're here. Sarasota always has something new to discover, and I can't wait to share what I find next.

And yes, I'll probably tell you which beach you should visit first.

XO, Mary Beth

Explore Sarasota