Two Cities, One Culture: Melbourne & Winter Park Cars & Coffee with Tint World
The heartbeat of Florida’s car scene echoed louder than ever this past weekend, with back-to-back Cars & Coffee events powered by Tint World. From the packed lot at Tint World Melbourne to the debut of Winter Park Cars & Coffee at Full Sail University, the community proved once again that Central Florida’s passion for cars is only getting stronger.
Melbourne Cars & Coffee at Tint World
Before sunrise, the Tint World lot was alive with the sound of engines and the shine of chrome. Hosting the event right at their own shop, Tint World gave enthusiasts a chance to roll in, connect, and showcase everything from exotics to classics.
Crowds gathered around standouts like a Porsche 911 GT3 that commanded attention from every angle, a bold McLaren 570S, and a menacing Dodge Viper GTS. Hot rods and vintage muscle filled the gaps, while JDM legends and European icons added international flavor to the mix.
But what really stood out wasn’t just the builds — it was the energy. Families, friends, and fellow gearheads swapped stories as Tint World staff greeted attendees, showing how much more their brand represents than just services. Melbourne proved once again that a shop can become a hub for culture when the right people fuel the movement.
Winter Park Cars & Coffee at Full Sail University
Just a day later, the spotlight shifted to Winter Park, where Full Sail University played host to the very first Cars & Coffee in the city. First events always carry a certain energy, and this one delivered — from fresh Euro builds to JDM imports, American muscle, and even daily-driven passion projects.
The campus backdrop made for an iconic setting, with students, families, and car clubs rolling in side-by-side. Conversations flowed as easily as the coffee, and the buzz in the crowd made it clear: Winter Park has a new monthly tradition in the making.
And once again, Tint World was right there at the center — not just sponsoring, but investing in the scene. Their support helped make the debut a reality, showing their commitment to growing Florida’s culture one event at a time.
Closing the Weekend
Two cities. Two events. One culture. From Tint World’s home base in Melbourne to the brand-new stage in Winter Park, this weekend showed exactly why Florida’s car scene is thriving. It’s about more than cars — it’s about connection, community, and the shared passion that keeps the movement alive.
Steel & Style was proud to be on the ground for both, capturing the builds and the people that make these gatherings special. Stay tuned — because this is only the beginning.
👉 And don’t forget — grab a Steel & Style T-shirt wear at the events in the picture below and you’ll receive a FREE $500 professional photo shoot of your ride, on us.
Steel & Style Spotlight: Legends of Orlando Presents Legends by the Lake
Car culture in Orlando thrives on passion, style, and community, and few events showcase that spirit as strongly as Legends by the Lake. Hosted by Legends of Orlando, this meet was dedicated exclusively to imports from 1999 and older, creating a true throwback atmosphere for fans of JDM icons, Euro classics, and timeless builds that shaped an entire generation.
A Nostalgic Vibe
From the moment the first cars rolled in, the event transported attendees back to the golden era of imports. Think late-’90s tuner energy: Civics, Integras, Supras, RX-7s, Skylines, and more. Every detail — from period-correct wheels to vintage decals — spoke to the authenticity of the builds and the dedication of their owners. This wasn’t just a car show; it was a time capsule.\
From the moment the first cars rolled in, the event transported attendees back to the golden era of imports. Think late-’90s tuner energy: Civics, Integras, Supras, RX-7s, Skylines, and more. Every detail — from period-correct wheels to vintage decals — spoke to the authenticity of the builds and the dedication of their owners. This wasn’t just a car show; it was a time capsule.
Standout Builds
Each car told a story, whether it was a survivor build that had been preserved since the ’90s or a modern refresh that blended nostalgia with today’s performance parts.
The Community Connection
What truly set this meet apart was the community. Enthusiasts of all ages gathered by the lake, sharing stories about the first cars they drove, the builds they dreamed of in high school, and the projects they’re still chasing today. Legends of Orlando created not just a show, but a gathering place for a scene that continues to inspire.
Closing Thoughts
Legends by the Lake proved that the cars of yesterday still command the same respect and admiration today. For anyone who grew up with posters of these machines on their walls, the event was a reminder of why we fell in love with the import scene in the first place.
Winter Garden Cars & Coffee – August 2025 Spotlight
“Custom cars, classics, and exotics at Winter Garden Cars & Coffee – August 2025 in Central Florida”
A Morning Where Coffee Meets Horsepower
On a warm August morning, Winter Garden came alive with the rumble of engines and the smell of fresh coffee as car enthusiasts from across Central Florida gathered for another unforgettable Cars & Coffee event. What makes Winter Garden special is its balance of laid-back community charm and jaw-dropping automotive builds — a combination that keeps this meet growing every month.
Highlights from the Show
This month’s turnout delivered variety in every direction. Rows of classic American muscle sat alongside JDM legends and Euro exotics, each one drawing crowds for photos and conversations. The event’s relaxed vibe gave enthusiasts time to appreciate details up close — from polished engine bays to custom interiors and paintwork that gleamed in the Florida sun.
Among the standout rides were several head-turning customs and performance builds that reminded everyone why Winter Garden is becoming a go-to destination for Florida’s car scene. Whether it was a slammed import with a one-of-a-kind stance, a meticulously restored classic, or a supercar that drew smartphones like magnets, every corner of the lot had something worth stopping for.
Community Vibes
Winter Garden Cars & Coffee has always been more than just a car show. Families came out early, local businesses benefitted from the steady flow of foot traffic, and new connections were made between builders, owners, and fans. It’s a reminder that Central Florida’s car culture isn’t just about machines — it’s about people coming together around a shared passion.
Closing Thoughts
August 2025’s Winter Garden Cars & Coffee proved once again that this event is a highlight on the calendar for enthusiasts across the region. With its mix of community atmosphere, rare builds, and consistent growth, Winter Garden is quickly cementing its place as one of Central Florida’s can’t-miss gatherings.
Dezerland Park Orlando: Batmobile, James Bond Cars & the World’s Largest Car Collection
Wide view of Dezerland Park Orlando car museum showcasing iconic movie cars including the Batmobile, James Bond Aston Martins, and thousands of rare vehicles.
Orlando isn’t just about theme parks — it’s home to one of the most jaw-dropping automotive museums in the world. On August 13th, I made my way through the massive halls of Dezerland Park Orlando, where thousands of cars from across decades and continents stand side by side. This wasn’t a car meet or show — it was a chance to step inside a living time capsule of automotive culture.
A World-Class Collection
Dezerland isn’t your average museum. It holds thousands of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even military vehicles. Every corner turns into another surprise — from rare classics to cultural icons. It’s the type of place where you can spend hours walking and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface.
Iconic Movie Cars
The Batmobile — instantly recognizable and a centerpiece for fans of Gotham’s hero.
Ghostbusters’ Ecto-1 — a reminder of 80s movie magic.
The Flintstones car — a playful full-size recreation that brings prehistoric comedy to life.
James Bond Collection — one of the largest in the world, featuring Aston Martins and other vehicles driven by 007 across decades of films.
For movie lovers, this section alone could be its own exhibit.
Record-Breakers & Military Machines
It’s not all about Hollywood. Dezerland is home to the world’s largest limousine — a sight so massive it feels surreal. Nearby, rows of military vehicles tell their own story of engineering and history, from battle-ready transports to armored giants.
Why It Stands Out
What makes Dezerland Park unique isn’t just the size of the collection — it’s the variety. Every aisle tells a different story: automotive history, design innovation, and pop culture collide under one roof. For anyone passionate about cars, film, or history, it’s more than a museum — it’s an experience.
Closing
Dezerland Park Orlando is a must-visit for enthusiasts, families, and anyone who wants to see just how wide the automotive world can stretch. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia, cinema legends, or once-in-a-lifetime rarities, this collection delivers it all.
Racks & Rods Brings Big Energy to Sanford – August 2025
Racks & Rods roared into Sanford with a strong lineup of muscle cars and classics, plus a few surprises. Hosted by Racks Billiards and Cruisin Orlando, this meet is quickly becoming a Central Florida favorite.
This past Sunday, Racks & Rods, hosted by Racks Billiards and Cruisin Orlando, filled Sanford with the unmistakable rumble of horsepower and the shine of polished chrome. While every style of build is welcome, this meet had a strong showing of American muscle and timeless classics, giving the day a distinct old-school flavor that drew in car lovers from all over Central Florida.
Muscle and Classics Take Center Stage
From perfectly restored ‘60s and ‘70s muscle cars to custom hot rods with modern performance upgrades, Racks & Rods delivered a feast for fans of raw power and vintage style. Deep engine notes rolled across the lot as Chevelles, Mustangs, Camaros, and classic pickups pulled in alongside street rods wearing flawless paint.
It wasn’t just about the big V8s, though — a few imports, trucks, and custom builds added variety to the lineup, reminding everyone that the event is open to all enthusiasts.
The Venue Advantage
Racks Billiards proved to be an ideal host, offering not just the space for a solid car lineup but also food, drinks, and a cool place to hang between walk-throughs of the show. Easy parking and a central location made it simple for locals and visitors alike to roll in for a relaxed Sunday meet.
Cruisin Orlando’s Touch
With Cruisin Orlando behind the organization, the event ran smoothly from start to finish. Parking was coordinated, foot traffic flowed, and spectators were able to enjoy the cars without feeling rushed — all signs of an experienced team that knows how to put on a great meet.
Looking Ahead
Racks & Rods may be new to the scene, but the combination of a great location, top-tier organization, and a strong turnout of muscle and classics has already made it a can’t-miss stop for Central Florida’s car community.
📅 Next Time: Keep your Sundays open — Racks & Rods is just getting started, and you won’t want to miss the next one. Follow Steel & Style for event updates and full photo galleries.
Winter Park Cars & Coffee – Full Sail University’s First-Ever Event
Steel & Style dives into the first-ever Winter Park Cars & Coffee at Full Sail University, hosted by Tint World Melbourne. This new event brought together an incredible mix of builds, enthusiasts, and community vibes, making it a fresh addition to Central Florida’s growing car culture. Check out the full event recap and photo gallery!
This past weekend marked a brand-new chapter for Central Florida’s car culture as Full Sail University hosted its first-ever Winter Park Cars & Coffee, presented by Tint World Melbourne. Enthusiasts from all around Orlando rolled into the Full Sail campus, bringing an impressive lineup of builds that turned heads from sunrise to late morning.
From the moment you stepped onto the lot, you could feel the vibe—this wasn’t just another parking lot meet-up. Full Sail’s creative energy blended with the car scene, creating an atmosphere that felt fresh, authentic, and full of potential for future events.
The variety of cars on display showcased the passion and creativity of Central Florida's car community. Every row offered something unique, from performance builds and classic restorations to highly customized street cars and rare showpieces.
Big shoutout to Tint World Orlando for hosting and making this event possible, and to our amazing sponsors who support Steel & Style’s mission to spotlight automotive culture. Events like this thrive because of the dedication of businesses and enthusiasts working together.
But what really made this show stand out was the community vibe. Families, students, and longtime car enthusiasts all mingled, sharing stories and snapping photos. Full Sail’s backdrop of creative arts and tech brought a unique twist—this meet wasn’t just about cars; it was about culture.
Winter Park Cars & Coffee is off to a strong start. If the first show is any indicator, this event is poised to become a must-attend staple in Central Florida’s car scene. Steel & Style will definitely be back to cover it as it grows.
Stay tuned for more Spotlight features and check out the full photo gallery on SteelAndStyleCarMag.com or our Facebook page!
🔥 Steel & Style Spotlight: Back Home in Charleston – Cars, Culture, and Coffee
A veteran photographer returns to Charleston, South Carolina, to capture three major car events—Charleston Cars & Coffee, West Ashley Cars and Coffee, and Ale and Octane. The image shows a wide-angle view of custom and classic cars lined up under morning sunlight, surrounded by car enthusiasts talking, taking photos, and enjoying the laid-back Southern car culture. The scene highlights a mix of muscle cars, imports, and vintage trucks with palm trees and historic Charleston architecture in the background.
There’s no feeling like going home. For me, that means Charleston—where I was raised, where I graduated in '98, and where my story started long before the Marine Corps or the camera lens. This past weekend, I took a trip back to the Lowcountry, not just to reconnect with my roots, but to capture some of the best car culture the city has to offer.
From early morning lineups to laid-back locals swapping build stories, Charleston reminded me that the scene down here isn’t just alive—it’s thriving. I had the honor of covering Charleston Cars & Coffee, West Ashley Cars and Coffee, and the always-electric Ale and Octane Charleston. Each event had its own vibe, but together they told a story only this city could write.
🚘 Charleston Cars & Coffee – Tradition Meets Passion
Held in the heart of Mount Pleasant, this event brought together a mix of timeless classics and tuned-up imports, all surrounded by palm trees and Southern charm. I ran into several old-school builds I hadn’t seen in years—cars that tell their own stories with patina, preservation, or pure horsepower.
Veterans, locals, and first-timers mingled like they’d known each other forever. That’s the Charleston way.
☕ West Ashley Cars and Coffee – The Underdog with Heart
West Ashley’s meet may not be the biggest, but it’s one of the most authentic. Parked up next to a few mini trucks, muscle cars, and daily-driven sleepers were some of the most creative builds I’ve seen lately. The kind of cars you know were put together in home garages with late nights and real grit.
No egos, no flexing—just builders and fans who love what they do.
🔥 Ale and Octane Charleston – Southern Style Goes Big
If you’re looking for polish, presentation, and a scene that keeps growing, Ale and Octane is it. This month’s event featured slammed trucks, widebody Euro builds, high-end exotics, and deep community energy. I caught everything from a stanced-out Lexus with wild camber to a fully restored C10 that looked like it rolled out of a dream.
What impressed me most? The respect. Whether it was a $200K supercar or a rough-around-the-edges Civic, people showed love across the board.
🎖️ Full Circle Moments
Being back in Charleston meant more than just car shows. It was a chance to reflect on how far I’ve come—from North Charleston High to Iraq, to launching Steel & Style. And now, walking through my old stomping grounds with a camera in hand, spotlighting the culture I once watched from the passenger seat.
To every builder, supporter, and stranger who let me photograph your ride this weekend—thank you. You’re not just part of a scene—you are the scene.
📍 More Than Just Machines
Charleston’s car scene isn’t about one-upmanship—it’s about expression. Every engine swap, custom paint job, and hand-fabricated piece tells a deeper story. Some of these rides were built as tributes, some as escapes, and some simply to turn heads. But all of them carry the heart of their owners. You could feel that in every handshake, every rev, and every proud look when someone leaned in to admire the details.
What stood out most on this trip was how community shows up here. Whether it was a crowd forming around a young kid’s first build or a group of veterans swapping war stories beside muscle cars, it reminded me why I started Steel & Style in the first place. These aren’t just car events—they’re connection points. And Charleston showed up strong.
🗓️ Dropping August 1st – Steel & Style August Issue
The full coverage from my Charleston trip—along with exclusive interviews, builder spotlights, and detailed photo sets—will drop this Thursday, August 1st in the upcoming issue of Steel & Style. All three events are featured, and this one hits different. From the streets of the Lowcountry to your screen, this month’s release is all about roots, rides, and real stories.
Make sure you’re subscribed and following across all platforms. Charleston showed up—and on August 1st, you’ll see why.
🚗 MidFlorida Cars & Grub 2-Year Anniversary Bash – Sanford’s Summer Standout
The MidFlorida Cars & Grub 2-Year Anniversary Car Show brought Florida’s car scene together for a weekend-long celebration in Sanford, FL. From custom street builds to burnout contests and dyno runs, this standout car show highlighted everything the Central Florida car culture has to offer. Hosted at Elev8 Fun, the event attracted enthusiasts
his past weekend, MidFlorida Cars & Grub celebrated its 2nd anniversary in style—bringing two full days of high-octane energy, stunning vehicles, and community spirit to the Elev8 Fun complex in Sanford. As one of Central Florida’s fastest-growing car show series, this milestone weekend delivered on every front.
Two Days, One Big Celebration
Friday Night kicked things off with an open-style meet filled with vibrant lighting, custom builds, live DJ vibes, local food vendors, raffles, and chill hangs.
Saturday turned up the dial with a fully judged car, truck, Jeep, and bike show, plus wild activities like a burnout trailer, dyno runs, wheelie machine, and a crowd-favorite dunk tank supporting a local cancer charity.
🔥 Show Highlights
Bike dyno testing and the wheelie machine challenge gave spectators a chance to test their skills or just enjoy the thrill.
The show field featured everything from bagged street builds and lifted trucks to slammed imports and retro muscle, all under one roof—or rather, one open sky.
📸 Steel & Style Behind the Lens
Our team was on site for both days capturing the action. From engine bay closeups to night-lit stances and daytime burnouts, the photo coverage speaks for itself. Expect full galleries to drop this week over at steelandstylecarmag.com. You don’t want to miss these builds.
💬 Community Driven
One attendee summed it up best:
“When life knocks you down, you get back up and join your car buddies at MidFlorida Cars & Grub.”
And that’s exactly the vibe. From the showrunners to the builders to the families walking through vendor booths—it was about connection, creativity, and community.
🍔 Food, Fun & Family Atmosphere
The Elev8 Fun location added a whole other level of entertainment with indoor go-karts, bowling, laser tag, and an arcade for all ages. Paired with on-site food trucks and small businesses, the atmosphere was part car show, part block party.
🔭 What’s Next?
MidFlorida Cars & Grub will be back with more monthly meets already on the calendar. Each one grows the scene and welcomes every style—from track builds to daily drivers. Don’t just watch—bring your ride, bring your crew, and be part of the movement.
Built, Bagged & Beautiful: July 2025 at Melbourne Cars and Coffee
Melbourne’s July 2025 Cars and Coffee brought together old-school cool and modern muscle in the kind of Florida heat that separates the real ones from the spectators. Hosted by the passionate crew at Tint World, this event had the feel of a pop-up car museum—where every build had something to say.
Set in the heart of Brevard County, the turnout proved again why this meet is quickly becoming a must-watch for Florida’s car scene. You had restorations, home-built hot rods, high-end exotics, and grassroots JDM—all sharing the same blacktop and getting equal love from the crowd.
Steel & Style’s Favorite Builds
📸 Boss Blue '70 Mustang Boss 302
An icon never goes out of style. This one flexed serious presence with that bold Grabber Blue paint, factory stripe kit, and a meticulously restored engine bay. An absolute standout.
📸 '67 Corvette Sting Ray in Deep Blue
Sitting pretty with BFGoodrich Radial T/As and vintage rally wheels, this C2 split-window had the stance and polish of a collector’s dream. Timeless.
📸 Patina’d Chevy on Whitewalls
Slung low and loaded with character, this turquoise classic rocked raw metal scars and chrome that popped. A real-life time capsule with perfect Florida vibes.
📸 Green Vega Wagon
An unexpected crowd favorite. This bright green, hood-up sleeper looked clean enough to be in a catalog, with side pipes and polished wheels tying it all together.
📸 Wild Yellow Hot Rod Coupe
Blown V8, open headers, suicide doors, and bright yellow paint you could spot from a mile away. This hot rod was a love letter to raw power and traditional builds.
📸 White Bugatti-Styled Replica Roadster
Draped in Americana, this vintage-styled roadster stood out with its twin spares, full parade setup, and retro grill. Built for the memories, not the mileage.
📸 Mint Green Porsche 911 GT3
Flawless paint, carbon accents, and that signature rear wing made this a surgical piece of Stuttgart engineering. Modern, clean, and track-ready.
📸 Slammed Nissan 240SX (S13)
With its aggressive fitment, Bride seats, and pop-up headlights locked in beast mode, this JDM hero screamed Florida drift scene through and through.
📸 Blue McLaren 570S
The color alone turned heads, but the stance, splitters, and full carbon aero made it more than just exotic—it was elite. The definition of rolling performance art.
What Made It Special
The event was more than just cars—it was culture. Families showed up early. Enthusiasts lined the rows with coffee in one hand and cameras in the other. Conversations sparked over carbs, camber, and craftsmanship. Local teams like were present not just to promote, but to connect.
Stay tuned to Steel & Style for full photo features, Reels, and behind-the-scenes content from the next stop on the circuit.
Top 10 Builds From Lake Mary Cars & Coffee June 2025
Top 10 Builds from Lake Mary Cars & Coffee – June 2025
The Florida heat couldn’t outshine the lineup at June’s Lake Mary Cars & Coffee. This month’s show was packed with standout builds from every corner of the automotive scene—restomods, imports, lowriders, muscle, and one legendary truck that quite literally brought the world’s attention. After combing through hundreds of shots and cruising the lanes, we narrowed it down to the Top 10 Builds that defined the day.
🐂 Lamborghini Aventador SVJ
The bull was out. Sitting on custom white wheels with yellow calipers and a slammed stance, this blacked-out Aventador was subtle in color but savage in design. Exotic dominance, pure and simple.
🎌 No Good Racing Civic
Straight out of Osaka-style street culture, this Civic was all go and all show. Livery, race numbers, Japanese decals, and Mugen touches brought street-style authenticity right to Central Florida.
🛠️ Red EK Civic – Built & Balanced
A textbook clean EK Civic, but with an edge. Tasteful exterior, hood-up engine bay showcasing polish and power, and classic 5-spoke wheels gave this one major respect from JDM purists.
🚀 Ford Super Duty “Sky Lift”
This rig was all altitude and attitude. Massive polished wheels, a lifted suspension that nearly needed stairs, and a show-ready finish made this truck hard to miss—even from across the lot.
🎯 Herbie Redux – Classic VW Beetle
Everyone knew Herbie could race—but this tribute Beetle looked ready to restart the franchise. Clean chrome, yellow lenses, and those unmistakable stripes had adults pointing and kids grinning.
🔥 Honda S2000 (Emerald Boost)
This S2K wasn’t just sitting pretty. With a big front-mount intercooler and clean fitment, it was clearly built to move. The deep green paint popped under the palm trees, and it left no doubt that this roadster means business.
🏆 Morgan +8 Timeless class never goes out of style. The Morgan +8 brought proper British elegance to the event, down to its polished wire wheels and old-school curves. Refined, rare, and radiant.
🥉 ’53 Chevy 3100 Restomod A showstopper in smooth gray with matte black accents, this 3100 restomod blends classic curves with modern aggression. Open hood details showed this truck was built with intent, and it earned every bit of its crowd.
🥈Radrot: The Mad Machine If Mad Max built a lowrider, this would be it. Radrot isn’t just a car—it’s an experience. Exposed mechanicals, eerie glow lights, and a transformer-like aesthetic made this one of the most talked-about builds at the show. It’s raw. It’s loud. It’s genius.
🥇 Slammed Green GMC with Flames Laid-out perfection. Custom airbrushed flames dance across vibrant green paint with a drop so deep it looked welded to the pavement. This mini-truck screamed personality and polish.
Back Where It All Began: West Ashley & Ale & Octane – Our Homegrown Car Culture
Ale & Octane May 2023
If you’ve been following Steel & Style, you already know we’ve been everywhere—from massive convention halls to movie-lot-level builds—but let’s not forget where we cut our teeth.
West Ashley Cars & Coffee July 2023
We’re talking about West Ashley Cars & Coffee and Ale & Octane at New Realm Brewery—two of Charleston’s premier car culture staples. These are more than just events. They’re community. They’re consistency. And for us, they’re home turf.
Ale & Octane January 2024
We’ve walked these lots. We’ve seen the local legends. We’ve captured builds that turned into cover cars—and every time we come back, the bar gets raised a little higher.
West Ashley Cars & Coffee June 2024
From bare-metal rat rods to clean-cut customs, the level of creativity at these events never disappoints. Whether it’s a dog on a blanket next to a vintage Ford or a hand-painted tank on a slammed motorcycle—Charleston brings character to the concrete.
Ale & Octane August 2024
And that’s exactly why we’ll be back on July 27th—cameras rolling and eyes open for this month’s Steel & Style Magazine Shot Opportunity.
West Ashley Cars & Coffee November 2023
Want to Get Featured? Come Find Us.
If your ride tells a story—we want to hear it, shoot it, and show it off.
Ale & Octane December 2024
We’ll be capturing feature-worthy builds, grabbing behind-the-scenes content, and scouting future cover car candidates.
Ale & Octane November 2023
Come say what’s up, bring the heat, and you just might land yourself in the next issue of Steel & Style.
🗓️ Catch us at both events on Sunday, July 27th, 2025
📍 West Ashley Cars & Coffee (Charleston, SC)
📍 Ale & Octane at New Realm Brewery (Daniel Island, SC)
🔥 Let’s Make This Month Legendary
We’re proud of how far Steel & Style has come—but we’ll never stop repping the roots.
Whether you’ve been featured before or are pulling up for the first time—this is your moment. See you out there, Charleston.
#WestAshleyCarsAndCoffee #AleAndOctane #SteelAndStyle #CharlestonCarCulture #CarShowSeason #MagazineShotOpportunity
Farewell to a Florida Favorite: Hooters & Hot Rods Comes to a Close
Today, the Central Florida car community received news we hoped would never come—Hooters & Hot Rods in Sanford has officially come to an end.
This wasn’t just a car meet. It was a tradition. A gathering that brought us together under the Florida sky to celebrate the machines we build, the friends we ride with, and the memories that make this culture more than just a hobby.
Run by DJ Don and the Cruisin Orlando team, Hooters & Hot Rods had a spirit that couldn’t be replicated. Whether it was your first time pulling in or your fiftieth, the lot felt like home. The music, the chrome, the laughter, the stories—every event reminded us why we fell in love with this life on wheels.
For many of us, this was where we debuted a new build, took our favorite photos, or had our best conversations with complete strangers who quickly became part of the extended family. It wasn’t about trophies. It was about time well spent.
To DJ Don and everyone who made this event what it was—thank you. You gave us a gift we didn’t realize we’d miss this much until now.
The cars will still cruise. The community will still gather. But this one... this one will be remembered.
🔥 Chrome & Community: Winter YMCA Car Show Ignites Local Passion
When the Winter Park sun rose over the YMCA lot, it wasn’t just about cars—it was about presence. Rows of polished chrome, rare imports, and custom builds came together in a neighborhood lot that felt more like a hometown festival than a show. This wasn’t big-stage pretension—this was the real deal.
This year’s mix hit every note: vintage, custom, and clean. A sharp blue BMW posted up like it owned the asphalt. A white Moke brought the island vibe, drawing crowds with its open-air charisma. Multiple generations of Porsche showed off sleek lines and performance heritage, with one dropping jaws the moment it crept through the gate.
There was also something special about the attention to detail—clean interiors, polished lips, and a lineup that spoke to every kind of enthusiast.
The beauty of this show? You didn’t need a VIP pass to talk shop. Conversations spilled across the lot—about builds, track days, paint codes, and life. Kids peeked under hoods. Builders exchanged Instagram handles. A few veterans connected over shared service and shared passion for clean machines.
It was exactly what the culture needs—real connections over real builds.
Some of the best moments weren’t parked—they were in motion. Like the blue Porsche gliding in at golden hour or the beach-ready Moke pulling in with the kind of swagger only an import that’s stood the test of time can deliver.
This wasn’t just a photo-op—it was a vibe.
🔧 Final Gear: Why It Matters
Shows like this keep the scene alive—not by going bigger, but by staying real. The Winter YMCA Car Show delivered exactly what car culture needs right now: connection, passion, and a lineup full of stories worth hearing.
To the builders, photographers, families, and organizers—thank you. Steel & Style will be back next year.
Which Ride Rules the Scene? Let’s Settle This.
This week, we’re not spotlighting one ride—we’re putting the whole scene under the spotlight.
From showstopping C10s to wild 90s lowriders, from classic muscle to bagged beasts… everybody has a favorite. But here’s the real question:
If you had to crown ONE category as king, what’s taking the title?
🏁 Classic Muscle?
🔧 90s Lowriders
🚗 Imports & Tuners
🛻 Lifted Trucks
🛠️ Bagged Builds
🔩 Patina Projects
🧊 Iconic C10s
We know it’s not just about looks—it’s the culture, the history, the builds that break necks and rules. But we want to hear it from the real ones in the scene:
Which style speaks to your soul?
Jump on our Facebook Page and tell us why. Better yet—drop a pic of your favorite build. We’ll highlight the best comments next week right here in the Spotlight.
This isn’t just a post. It’s a callout.
Let’s settle this. 💥
Chrome, Culture & Count’s Kustoms – The Caring Hearts Car Show Was Fire!
The 2025 Caring Hearts of South Carolina Car Show brought muscle cars, custom lowriders, and a special guest appearance by Horny Mike from Count’s Kustoms. Check out highlights from this unforgettable automotive event.
Horny Mike giving out awards at the Caring Hearts of SC Car, Truck, Jeep, and Bike Show 2025 in Ridgeland, SC May 3, 2025
If you weren’t at the Caring Hearts of South Carolina Car Show this weekend, you missed out—big time. From old-school muscle to clean custom builds, the lot was packed with serious heat. The energy? Straight-up electric.
Stunning Autos on display from all years, makes, and models!
Lifted Square body looking very sharp!
Horny Mike from Count’s Kustoms rolled in as our special guest and brought the Vegas vibe with him. The man didn’t just show up—he connected, took time with the fans, and reminded everyone why he’s a staple in the custom scene. From his signature horned helmet to his down-to-earth attitude, he brought a jolt of star power that matched the horsepower on display.
Horny Mike observing this Cobra for his personal best of show trophpy
Immaculate classic Chevy truck.
Standouts? Too many to count—but that blue lowrider Toyota had crowds circling all day. Laid low, clean chrome, flawless paint... It was a street dream brought to life. And of course, the muscle car lineup hit hard—Camaro, Charger, Chevelle, all flexing under the Carolina sun like they owned the blacktop.
Blue Toyota slammed to the ground in style.
Everywhere you turned, there was something to take in—custom paint that looked wet under the sun, polished engine bays detailed down to the valve covers, and families walking through with their jaws on the pavement. You could feel it in the air: this wasn’t just a car show—it was a celebration of craft, culture, and community.
Can you see the ghost pattern in the paint?
Vendors lined the lot offering everything from hand-dipped corn dogs to car care products you can’t find at the chain stores. Local shops and builders showed out, repping South Carolina hard with pride in every weld, polish, and burnout story. And when the music hit just right, it was like the cars and the crowd moved as one.
Spectators and participants talking amongst each other.
The crowd was mixed—veterans, kids with toy Camaros, and longtime builders sharing stories of their first rides. It wasn’t just about what you drove, it was about what you brought to the pavement. And Caring Hearts made sure the heart stayed front and center, reminding us why this event matters beyond the chrome.
Custom bikes came out to play to!
Drone shot of the Caring Hearts Car Show in Ridgeland, SC
And let’s not forget the showstoppers rolling in late—trucks on air, bikes with wild graphics, and a few surprises that turned the whole show around more than once. This wasn’t just another meet-up. This was the kind of event that leaves a mark.
1934 Custom Chevy Truck on display
If this was just a preview of what 2025 car culture in the South is bringing, then buckle up—because we’re in for one wild ride.
Jeeps in full force showing how clean they can be!
Orlando Cars & Coffee Ignites: Cars, Culture, and Coffee at Dezerland Park
Orlando’s car scene never disappoints, and April’s Cars & Coffee at Dezerland Park proved it once again. From sunrise roll-ins to burnout-worthy exits, this month’s gathering brought the heat—and not just from the Florida sun.
Hosted in the sprawling lot outside Dezerland Park, the April event saw everything from slammed imports and lifted trucks to rare classics and modern exotics. You could walk the rows and see an 80s box Chevy parked next to a brand-new GT-R, then turn the corner and catch a full carbon fiber Mustang lined up beside a custom airbrushed bike.
As always, the crowd showed love. Veterans of the scene mixed with first-timers, camera gear was everywhere, and conversations flowed as easily as the coffee. For car builders, photographers, and fans alike, Orlando Cars & Coffee continues to be the spot where culture, craftsmanship, and community come together.
Dezerland’s backdrop gave this one extra flair—between the indoor auto museum, go-kart track, and food options, there’s always something more to check out once you’ve had your fill of chrome and camber.
April’s event reminded us that this isn’t just about cars—it’s about people who live and breathe the lifestyle. If you missed this one, don’t worry—we’ve got the photos to prove it happened. And if you were there, you might just spot your ride in our gallery.
See you in May.
Show of the South: Horsepower Ranch Easter Car Show
Hidden among the tall oaks and rustic barns of Geneva, Florida, lies one of the region’s best-kept secrets: Horsepower Ranch. Known for hosting weddings, festivals, and automotive throwdowns alike, this unique venue became the perfect backdrop for the Easter Car Show—an event that had everything but Easter eggs.
Let’s be clear—this wasn’t some cutesy springtime affair. It was a full-on flex of muscle, metal, and memory. The smell of octane hung in the air as Florida’s proudest car lovers rolled in with chrome polished, tires shining, and engines ready to be heard.
The Lineup: Classic Muscle Meets Modern Edge
The field was loaded with Detroit’s finest—big blocks, small blocks, high-rise intakes, and enough horsepower to make your chest rattle. Among the standouts:
A menacing Dodge Charger that idled like thunder rolling through the swamp.
A Mustang that looked straight out of Bullitt.
Camaro
The Venue: Where Florida Muscle Feels at Home
Horsepower Ranch delivered the kind of rustic energy that’s hard to fake. With its open barns, live oak trees, and wide Florida skies, it gave the entire event a welcoming, unfiltered vibe. This was a gathering where builders talked shop, families grilled out, and every engine was treated with respect.
The venue brought something a lot of shows miss—soul.
More Than Machines
This wasn’t just about showing off—it was about connection. Whether you came with a $100K build or a primer-grey project still in progress, you were part of the tribe. There were vendors, raffles, food trucks, and plenty of stories passed between sun-faded hats and oil-stained hands.
One visitor summed it up best:
“It’s not just a show. It’s a reminder of why we fell in love with these cars in the first place.”
Little Tikes Car
Coming Soon in Steel & Style
We’ve got the full photo gallery, behind-the-scenes interviews, and a feature spotlight on some of the most jaw-dropping builds of the day. Whether you were there or just wish you were, Steel & Style is bringing you back into the moment.
🚨 I-Drive Throwdown: Orlando’s Custom Underground Took Over Dezerland 🚨
If you weren’t at Dezerland Park for the I-Drive Throwdown, you missed one of the hardest truck shows to hit Central Florida. No distractions. Just straight-up truck culture taking center stage.
From towering lifts to laid-out frames scraping the floor, every build had its own flavor—and every square inch of Dezerland was packed with detail, creativity, and flex.
Lifted to the Sky: Trucks sitting on 24s and 26s, with powder-coated suspension parts and color-matched everything. Every bolt, every bracket—custom. These weren’t pavement princesses. These were full-on show trucks that still looked like they could run the trail.
Laid Out and Low as It Gets: Static builds with aggressive camber, and bagged trucks that aired out so low it looked like they were melting into the concrete. Custom beds, crazy notch work, and smooth-as-glass paint. These trucks didn’t need to move to steal attention.
Truck Crews in Full Force: The loyalty was loud. Matching shirts, squad banners, and full roll-ins with 10+ builds deep. The respect in the room was real—no drama, just love for the game.
You already know we caught the best of the best. From wild builds to those clean sleepers with a twist, the coverage is rolling out soon.
This wasn’t just a show—it was a statement.
Horsepower, Paint, and Precision: The F.A.S.T. Car Show Roars into Charleston
A high-octane experience brought to life by Honda Steve, with wild builds, top-tier clubs, and serious heart.
March 30th lit up North Charleston Coliseum with the return of the F.A.S.T. Car Show & Automotive Tradeshow—and if you didn’t know, F.A.S.T. stands for Fuel. Air. Spark. Tradeshow. Powered by the relentless drive of Honda Steve, this wasn’t just an event—it was a lifestyle unleashed
$400,000 Corvette on display.
From the moment the doors opened, you were hit with custom rides so bold they blurred the line between machine and art. One of the wildest builds on the floor? A $400,000 Corvette that looked like it drove straight out of a dream.
C10 Locals had a few represintatives on deck supporting including SandScrapper.
Representing deep Southern roots, the C10 Locals brought clean, classic Chevy muscle, while Done 2 Profection Car & Truck Club was supporting the show, Original Kings Car Club flexed with polished builds that lived up to the name. Tatted Cat Custom Creations laid down stunning paintwork across a few showstoppers, drawing crowds with every brushstroke of detail
The Original Kings Car Club showed a few of their top rides.
NOPI made a strong return, reminding everyone of their iconic legacy in the car scene. From fully-detailed motorcycles and custom trikes to jacked-up trucks and jaw-dropping lowriders—every lane of the car world showed up strong.
NOPI Nationals is back and in full swing!
Tatted Cat Custom Creations displayed Ronnie Sephrish’s slammed Truck
Beyond the chrome and clear coat, this event raised funds for charity—cause still to be confirmed—but the love and support from the community was undeniable.
🔥 Full gallery and exclusive coverage now at:
👉 steelandstylecarmag.com
Camtech Custom Baggers showed off their amazing work.
West Ashley Cars & Coffee – March 2025 Recap
There’s something special about a crisp morning, the hum of finely tuned engines, and the scent of fresh coffee filling the air. On March 30th, the West Ashley Cars & Coffee event, hosted by Mr. Richie Canaday, brought together an eclectic mix of vehicles and enthusiasts, proving once again that car culture in Charleston is alive and thriving.
From the moment the first car rolled in, it was clear this wasn’t just another gathering—it was a showcase of passion, craftsmanship, and automotive history. A gleaming SS Camaro commanded attention with its powerful stance, while a custom Suburban turned heads with its unique modifications. The rat rod, a true work of art, embodied old-school rebellion, and the hot rod radiated sheer horsepower. These were not just machines; they were stories on wheels, each with an owner ready to share the journey behind their build.
Beyond the chrome and horsepower, the real magic of Cars & Coffee lies in the people. Conversations sparked between strangers over engine specs, restoration projects, and shared memories of past classics. Whether you were a seasoned collector or a casual admirer, there was an undeniable sense of community in the air.
One of the highlights of the event was the sheer variety of cars present. The muscle car lineup featured roaring Mustangs, classic Challengers, and a few modern Hellcats, all drawing nods of approval from onlookers. Truck enthusiasts weren’t left out either, as lifted Fords, vintage Chevy pickups, and even a few heavily modified off-road beasts showed up to represent the world of rugged builds. There were also several imports sprinkled throughout the lot, adding a touch of JDM flair to the mix.
Attendees took their time strolling through the rows, capturing photos, discussing restoration techniques, and sharing the unique histories behind their prized vehicles. Some cars had been meticulously restored to their original factory condition, while others were bold custom projects that pushed the boundaries of design and performance.
As the morning wore on, the air buzzed with the sound of engines revving, coffee cups clinking, and laughter from friends—both old and new. Vendors lined the edges of the lot, offering car-related merchandise, performance parts, and even specialty detailing services for those looking to keep their rides in pristine condition. A local coffee vendor ensured that no one went without a caffeine fix, fueling both conversations and the enthusiasm that kept the energy high throughout the morning.
As the sun rose higher and the coffee cups emptied, the event wrapped up with a lingering feeling of inspiration. West Ashley Cars & Coffee isn’t just an event—it’s an experience, a place where the love of automobiles brings people together month after month. If you missed this one, don’t worry; the next gathering promises to be just as spectacular.
Stay tuned for exclusive photos and deeper dives into the incredible vehicles that made this event unforgettable!