It’s official: Magnolias on the Bay has reentered the Manasota Key scene as an island icon. In a new feature with VoyageTampa, Ashley Dignam, Magnolias’ award-winning Catering and Events Manager, captures exactly what makes this beloved Manasota Key waterfront restaurant and wedding venue so special.
Ashley kicks things off by sharing some of the restaurant’s standout offerings, from the open-concept Bay Garden Bar and talented staff to Chef Ron Westrom, who curates their exquisite seasonal menu.
She also speaks fondly of the owners, Rocket and Sue Atamanchuk:
“Rocket & Sue Atamanchuk have been in the business locally for over 30 years! They own three iconic restaurants on Manasota Key and Magnolias is the pink gem of their hearts! … The Manasota Key Group is the umbrella name for the company which includes their three restaurants, a marina and the Dearborn Corner Market. The family employs 300 locals and treats each employee like a member of the family!”
486 Days, One Incredible Comeback
She goes on to share the struggles the “pink palace” and her staff faced in the wake of the 2024 hurricane season, followed by a comeback story fit for a fairy tale:
“Magnolias was closed for 486 days before construction and reconstruction was complete. It was a long road of blood, sweat and lots of tears to bring her back to her iconic pink and popular self! … After countless setbacks, we reopened our doors in February of 2026 and we couldn’t be more proud of how far we’ve come!”
Award-Winning Events & Weddings at Magnolias
Ashley also opens up about what she loves most about planning weddings and private events at Magnolias on the Bay, one of Manasota Key’s most sought-after waterfront wedding venues:
“I love what I do because of the people I get to work both WITH and FOR. … I love the time I get with brides and their families, making sure every single aspect of their wedding is paid attention to. From signage, to curated menus, specialty desserts, fun live entertainment and specialty cocktails, we do it all! This past year I personally won a local ‘Best Of Englewood’ Award for the category of event and event planning. We truly appreciate all the support we’ve had since we started doing weddings in 2022 and we know how important our work is.”
She even gives readers a peek behind the curtain at the little moments that make Magnolias events truly unforgettable, like walking a couple’s dog during cocktail hour and comforting a crying ring bearer who didn’t want to walk the aisle. Because yes, they really do it all!
A huge thank you to the LA-based Voyage Group of Magazines for featuring Ashley and Magnolias on the Bay. What an honor!
Be sure to read the full interview on VoyageTampa:
👉 Life & Work with Ashley Dignam of Tampa
The next time you’re looking for boutique fine dining in Englewood, Florida, or the perfect Manasota Key wedding venue or private event space, make your reservation at Magnolias on the Bay. We can’t wait to serve you!
