By Nicole Hamel
On the Scene: Modiste Market in Mount Dora
The 4th Annual Modiste Market, hosted by Orange Blossom Market Co. at the historic Lakeside Inn, brought the Regency era to life. Many attendees embraced the theme by dressing in period attire, adding to the event’s authentic atmosphere.
Guests enjoyed dance lessons, live harp and violin performances, artisan vendors, and other Regency-inspired activities throughout the day.
The event provided an engaging experience for history enthusiasts, literature fans, and members of the local community. As it continues to grow in popularity each year, the Modiste Market has become a beloved annual tradition.
Nicole, born and raised in Maine, is an award-winning photographer with more than 15 years of professional experience. After relocating to Kentucky, she began her career photographing military families and volunteering with several organizations, including Operation Homefront (Tennessee/Kentucky Chapter), the American Red Cross, and the Wounded Warriors Project. While living in Hawaii, Nicole worked as a historical photographer, documenting the Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam community and its surrounding areas. In 2015, Nicole settled in Florida and joined Akers Media Group as a freelance photographer.
Through dedication and consistent excellence, she advanced to Chief Photographer. Her contributions earned her MVP of the Year in 2020 and Employee of the Year in 2023, recognizing both her hard work and commitment to her craft. After eight years of working for Akers, she can now add published writer to her list of accomplishments. Outside of her professional work, Nicole enjoys spending time with her two children, Dylan and Olivia. Her interests include underwater photography, crafting, reading, gardening, traveling, and experiencing life firsthand.
