As Stroll Ardsley Park celebrates its 10-year anniversary, we couldn't think of a better way to mark the occasion than by catching up with our very first cover family, AJ and Cody Hetzel. Featured on the inaugural issue in January 2015, this dynamic duo has transitioned from running The Mint Green Tag Sale Company to building a thriving new chapter filled with pets, portraits, and Ardsley charm.

Back in 2015, AJ and Cody were busy entrepreneurs, managing their successful estate sale business and doting on their two beloved dogs, The Commodore and Mikimoto. They loved dining at Savannah staples like The Green Truck, Moon River Brewery, and Huc-A-Poo's, and when time allowed, they hit the high seas on cruise vacations.

Fast forward to 2025, AJ and Cody have traded their estate sales for a more furry and fun-filled endeavor: Ardsley Park Pet Sitter, a business they launched five years ago after selling The Mint Green Tag Sale Company. Their passion for pets is evident, not only in their business but also in AJ’s stunning pet portrait artwork, which she shares on Facebook at Pet Portraits By AJ.

Life in Ardsley

AJ has called Ardsley Park home since 1993, and Cody joined in 2006 after moving from Carroll County, Georgia. Together, they’ve fully embraced the charm and close-knit community of the neighborhood. Though they no longer have pets of their own, their pet-sitting business allows them to care for and enjoy the company of the many four-legged friends in the area. “If you don’t know us personally, you’ve probably seen us walking dogs around Ardsley in our bright orange vests—we’re hard to miss!” they shared.

AJ and Cody keep busy with hobbies that match their active and creative spirits. AJ enjoys yoga and channeling her artistic talent into painting, while Cody stays fit by hitting the gym. Together, they love strolling through Ardsley’s beautiful streets, boating with their Freedom Boat Club membership, and traveling whenever they get the chance.

Community involvement has always been important to AJ and Cody. AJ is a passionate supporter of Coastal Pet Rescue, which helps give animals in need a second chance. And through their business, they’ve become familiar faces to many Ardsley neighbors, providing exceptional care for pets and connecting with fellow residents.

AJ and Cody bring their signature creativity and fun to their personal lives as well. Every year, they celebrate what they’ve dubbed "Hetzelmas" during each of their birthday months. These celebrations are anything but ordinary, featuring private chef dinners and unforgettable themed parties. One standout event was an Andy Warhol-inspired art competition where friends brought their own versions of Warhol’s iconic works to compete for prizes. This year, they added a festive Oktoberfest twist for Cody's birthday, complete with costumes, a balloon artist, and even a keg.

Reflecting on the past decade, AJ and Cody have evolved from one business and lifestyle to a completely different one while embracing every opportunity to grow and connect with their neighbors. Their story highlights the essence of what makes Ardsley Park special—a neighborhood filled with creativity, passion, and heart.

As Stroll Ardsley Park celebrates 10 years, we are thrilled to feature AJ and Cody once again, showcasing how they’ve continued to make their mark in the community while finding new ways to bring joy and inspiration to those around them. Cheers to AJ and Cody, and here’s to many more years of Ardsley Park adventures!