LIFE of the PARTY
To put it bluntly, we were instantly captivated by Monica Gray. By chance, we stumbled into her at a local estate sale as she breezed in with an energy, look, and confidence that doesn’t go unnoticed. She makes living the stylish-life look as easy as a top-rated influencer and is as sweet as she can be to boot. Smitten, we struck up a conversation and were so impressed that we promptly booked a photoshoot and interview. Thoughtful, humble and oh-so successful, she’s both an entrepreneur and an advocate for women. And, did we mention she’s part of the Kenny Chesney empire, too?
By Hayley Hill Photos Stevye Photography, StevyePhotography.com Makeup Courtney Matthews Makeup Artistry, Cocokat1978@gmail.com Hair Jason Chambers, HeadDress Salon, 251.689.7427.
While it’s not her only gig, Monica’s main job is the SVP of marketing at Blue Chair Bay Rum—a spectacular first-rate rum inspired by the island lifestyle of multi-platinum singer-songwriter Kenny Chesney. And after treating us to a round of Key Lime Coladas made with the brand’s Key Lime Rum Cream, we were hooked.
Born on the beach, every drop of this delicious rum is made in the Caribbean from sugarcane, molasses, and natural ingredients. “It’s an award-winning premium brand infused with Kenny Chesney’s heart and soul. He worked with one of the world’s best master blenders, Mike Booth, to create the blends. As for my role, I develop the marketing plans from concept to execution. You name it I do it. From campaigns, social media, digital, advertising, point-of-sale, online sales, events, tours, public relations, partnerships, influencers, and creative packaging and design, I lead six smart and talented marketing individuals who help me make it all happen,” Monica tells us.
With flavors ranging from Spiced, White, Coconut, Banana, Vanilla, Key Lime Rum Cream, Banana Rum Cream, Pineapple Rum Cream, Coconut Spiced Rum Cream and Mocha Rum Cream, we’ve found our summer go-to. And, if you find yourself at the Flora-Bama, be sure to try them out as they truly are summer in a cup.
As for how Monica feels about what must be a highly desired position, she shares, “I’ve been with Blue Chair Bay Rum since it was launched 10 years ago. I’ve had the honor of launching and building a successful brand alongside an owner who is passionate about his brand, music, and island lifestyle. Authenticity and passion are two values I have learned from Kenny Chesney!”
Naturally, we need to know her favorite cocktail. “I love the skinny coconut Mojito. Made with the Blue Chair Bay Coconut Rum, coconut water, limes, mint, and club soda, it’s refreshing and perfect for sipping on the back porch and beach. The Key Lime Colada is the perfect indulgence and is my favorite to enjoy at the Flora-Bama. Made with Blue Chair Bay Key Lime Rum Cream and Coconut Rum, pineapple and orange juice, cream of coconut and ice, it’s the perfect dessert on a hot day! I also love adding the Blue Chair Bay Mocha Rum Cream to my coffee on a beach vacation!”
Clearly an incredible brand ambassador with a full cup, she decided to challenge herself and add entrepreneurship to her agenda. Curious as to her why, she shares, “I love bringing joy to others, it makes me happy. Party planning and providing others with an experience they’ll never forget is what makes running my two event businesses manageable!” she beams.
Monica recently founded The Southern Charm Picnic Company and is the new owner of the AL Sleepy Teepee. “Customized luxury picnics became trendy in 2020 on the West coast. When I decided to bring the idea to the Gulf Coast, I knew it would be a fresh and fun success. We’ve created 300+ picnics, and this season has brought a new perspective to the word custom! From creating one-of-a-kind celebrations like a groovy kid’s birthday picnic and a golf themed option, we’re able to be creative with what we offer because of the unbeatable inventory we have,” she shares.
With the goal of providing the most memorable experiences, Monica tells us, “I add a personal touch to each picnic that ranges from premium to pop-up options that can be enjoyed at the beach, bay, boat, balcony, or backyard. For example, we offer incredible tablescapes complete with Martha May’s Charcuterie, florals from Fairhope’s Wild Flowers, plush pillows, poufs and blankets for seating, coordinated umbrellas and detailed decor, speakers for music, and even a polaroid camera to capture special moments.”
Going the extra mile, Monica added a luxury boat ride picnic and cruise where you can ride around the canals of Orange Beach with Anonyme Cruises. “Our cabana service allows guests to take their beach day to the next level as we setup a beautiful chic white cabana with chairs, towels, beach blankets, sunscreen, a speaker, a cooler with ice and water, and fun beach floats, too! From anniversaries and birthdays to bachelorette and friend parties, we offer decorating and full planning for the perfect experiences.”
Since over-the-top bachelorette parties have become very trendy, bachelorette decorating and planning services are a true specialty unique to Monica. “Leaning into my experience, I partner with local brands and companies to elevate these occasions. All of the relationships I’ve developed over my career, like Blue Chair Bay Rum and more, have allowed me to offer truly customized experiences,” she shares.
Serving the Gulf Coast, the Eastern Shore and Mobile, she also owns and operates AL Sleepy Teepee. “With a focus on fun teepees, we create a magical birthday party or celebration experience for children as well as adults of all ages. We offer a list of themes, plan and set up the party, take it down the following day, and even do the laundry! These teepee parties are always a huge hit and leave a lasting impression on all of your campers,” Monica states.
Rising at 4 AM most days, Monica takes an hour to have coffee by herself and worship. From there, she works a full day and cuts it off at 6 PM to spend time with her family. “It’s important to find a work-life balance and I do my best with everything we have going on. When possible, I take my kids, Carson, 7, and Beckham, 5, with me to picnic and teepee setups and on tour with Blue Chair Bay Rum and Kenny Chesney. Teaching our kids to work hard and create the life they want is so important to my husband Mark and I. My planner is my best friend and how I keep everything straight,” Monica adds.
In terms of self-care, Monica shares that working out keeps her sane and allows her to release stress. “And, I am very faithful. My morning worship has allowed me to come up with great ideas and solutions for all my problems. I believe you can’t do anything without the good Lord leading the charge!”
When it comes to her style, she shares, “I love running around in Lululemon shorts and a t-shirt with a messy bun! But, I’m also obsessed with the glitter and glam! I would wear sequins or bright prints every day if I could. Some of my favorite brands are Generation Love, Anthropologie, Revolve, Alice + Olivia, Draper James, LoveShackFancy and Betsey Johnson. I love Dolly Parton and the glitz she brings to the country music world. Everything she does and represents is my jam. I also adore Reese Witherspoon for her Southern style with a fresh twist on the relaxed mom look.”
As for her home? “Savannah Starring, the owner The House in Fairhope, has helped me take my sense of style and apply it to my own home. We designed it to be a twist of Dolly meets Anthology. From the pink and teal color palettes to the disco ball in the butler’s pantry, I want our guests to kick back and enjoy the space. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without Savannah’s guidance,” Monica tells us.
Originally from Colorado, Monica’s parents came to Gulf Shores for a family reunion, feel in love with the town, and proceeded to buy a condo for family vacations. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in 2015 by hurricane Ivan. However, they retired here in 2016. And, after living in Nashville for 9 years, getting married and having children, Monica and her husband decided they wanted to be closer to family. Having married at, the Flora-Bama of all places, they made the move in 2020. Monica shares, “We looked at locations at the beach but fell in love with Fairhope as we wanted that sweet small-town feel!”
Like most of us, they enjoy family walks by the bluff and through town, and grabbing an ice cream at Gene’s Beans. “I also love to shop at Sway, Sadie’s, CK Collection, Christina Lynns, The House and Wildflowers, and eating at the Hope Farm, Master Joes, and Pearl. I've been skiing since I was 3, so I still love the thrill of skiing the back country in Colorado. Enjoying a beach day with my kids and family is also one of our favorite things to do. Music is a passion for my entire family so taking the kids to shows is always on the list, too,” she shares.
As for the future? “When I was younger I dreamed of what it would be like to work for a celebrity. It seemed impossible. I worked hard to make that dream come true. I’ve learned how to push forward in the male-dominated liquor industry and grow a brand from nothing to a multi-million-dollar company. And, from there, I started my own successful businesses. I cannot wait to help other women find the confidence and passion to create their own businesses. In my friend circle, I love talking about what they’re passionate about, helping them coming up with marketing ideas, and encouraging them to gain the confidence that they can create the businesses they dream about. Through consulting and retreats, this will be the next thing I do.” And, after watching her and her team hustle to execute flawless set ups for this feature, we don’t doubt her one bit.
