BuckHaven, GA December 2025

Cheers, to the season of Gratitude

HOME + DESIGN

HOME IS WHERE THE HEARTH IS: READY FOR HANUKKAH

EDUCATION

TEENS SHARE GAMES THEY LIKE TO PLAY (AND GIVE)

FOOD + BEVERAGE

SILENT NIGHT, SOLO NIGHT: 11ALIVE'S CARA KNEER'S NIGHT OFF AT VALENZA

Feel Better. Stay Better. All in One Place.

Life doesn’t follow a schedule. That’s why AllCare is here - your neighborhood clinic in Buckhead, Peachtree Plaza, and beyond--o ering both primary care and immediate care, all under one roof. Whether it’s a routine checkup, a nagging cough, or a last-minute injury, our trusted team of providers is ready to help.

And once you walk in for an urgent need, you’ll stick around for long-term care. That’s the AllCare di erence.

We’re open 7 days a week with extended hours to fit your life. No confusing hando s. No starting over with someone new. Just one care team that knows you and cares for it all.

Why Choose AllCare?

• Primary care and immediate care in one convenient location

• Open 7 days a week: 8 am to 8 pm weekdays, 9 am to 2 pm weekends

• In-person and virtual visits

AllCare Buckhead

4605 Roswell Road

Atlanta, GA 30342

Phone: (678) 904-5611

Ramin Sadeghi, DO

Evelyn Larson, NP

• Same-day appointments and walk-ins welcome

• A Piedmont Clinic Member

• Most major insurance accepted plus a ordable self-pay options

AllCare Peachtree Plaza

2900 Peachtree Rd, Suite 301

Atlanta, GA, 30305

Phone: (470) 730-4747

Jasmine Watson, PA

introducing upstairs bites

Brookhaven’s modern neighborhood steakhouse just got a new upstairs obsession. Upstairs Bites is our upstairs-only menu of bold, shareable plates and signature favorites — from the Arnette’s Wagyu Burger to the Astrea Caviar Doughnut, Pork Belly Bao Buns, King Salmon Avocado Roll, Spicy Bluefin Tuna Maki Roll, and a towering raw seafood selection. Available only in the upstairs bar at Arnette’s.

Refined ingredients. Rebellious spirit. Remarkably welcoming vibe.

Happy holidays, friends

The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking or cherished family traditions.

While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely or in need. In the spirit of the season, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering your time or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference.

May your holidays be filled with love, peace and the joy of giving.

Kneer, Michel Arnette and Sue at Valenza. Photo by Jolie Loren

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Aleksandar Kapetanovic

COPY EDITOR

Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Sean O'Keefe

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Jolie Loren

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Holiday

Games (Smart) People Play

NAHS

Katharine Kelley is double CEO

The Buckhead Coalition and Buckhead Community Improvement District (CID) announced today that Katharine Kelley, an Atlanta-based urban development and civic leader, will take the helm as CEO of both organizations starting January 2026. With a distinguished career of over 30 years in innovative urban development and community leadership, Kelley brings a visionary approach to advancing Buckhead’s economic prosperity and role within the City of Atlanta.

Harvest Wine and Food Fest's Big Tally

Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), one of the nation’s premier fundraising organizations, is pleased to announce the 9th Annual Harvest Wine & Food Festival, hosted October 16-19 in WaterColor, raised more than $150,000 for children in need in Northwest Florida. DCWAF currently supports 16 children’s charities working to tackle homelessness, abuse, medical care and more in the local community.

Elegance that elevates

From concept to completion, we’re your full-service partner for transforming your space. Whether you’re dreaming of a stunning kitchen, a luxurious bathroom, or fully custom closets, we’ve got you covered. With 13 cabinet lines, 25+ custom closet colors, and an extensive selection of countertops, tile, and flooring, we offer options to suit every budget and every style. Let us help bring your vision to life - and turn your house into your dream home.

The Designery Atlanta 404.999.4585 | TheDesignery.com 6080 Sandy Springs Circle NE | Atlanta, GA 30328

Marist Honors Leadership

Marist School proudly recognized Natalie Smith Childs ’86 of Brookhaven with the 2025 St. Peter Chanel Award, the school’s highest honor, during the St. Peter Chanel Society Recognition Celebration. Presented annually, the award honors individuals whose selfless leadership and faithful support have profoundly advanced Catholic education at Marist School. The evening celebrated Childs’s decades of extraordinary service and the enduring impact of her generosity, leadership and unwavering commitment to the Marist mission.

‘Tis The Season

Celebrating 35 Years of Caring for Our Seniors

When Marian Andeweg-Kemp signed up to deliver Meals on Wheels one morning, she thought it would be a quick, six-stop route. But one visit changed her day — and reminded her why she volunteers.

Sam is 93 years old and nearly blind, and at his house, Marian was greeted with a wideopen door and an invitation to come in. What was supposed to take minutes turned into an hour of stories, laughter and connection. For Sam, Marian was the first person he had talked to since yesterday’s meal delivery. For Marian, it was a powerful reminder: Meals on Wheels isn’t just about food — it’s about human connection, compassion and making sure seniors feel safe and cared for.

Stories like Marian’s happen every day at Senior Services North Fulton, where the mission is to help older adults live with dignity, independence and joy. Thanks to the generosity of donors, corporate sponsors and over 500 volunteers, the nonprofit offers vital programs that keep seniors safe, healthy and connected – all at no cost to the seniors served.

“Our volunteers are the heart of everything we do,” says Cathy Pope, Executive Director of Senior Services North Fulton. “They deliver not only meals but compassion, friendship and a connection that many seniors might not have otherwise.”

ARTICLE BY HEATHER TERRY

The Meals on Wheels program delivers nutritious meals to homebound seniors, while Meals on Wheels for Pets ensures older adults can feed their beloved pets, keeping these vital bonds intact.

Transitional housing program (PaTH) helps prevent senior homelessness with short-term assistance for rent and utilities. And the TOPS Transportation program provides rides to medical appointments, supporting seniors’ health and independence.

Senior Services North Fulton also operates seven senior centers that serve as community hubs where older adults come together to learn, exercise, create and connect. From art classes and fitness programs to shared meals and lively social activities, these centers are places where seniors thrive. Located in Alpharetta/Crabapple, Milton, Roswell, Sandy Springs and across the City of Atlanta, these centers bring joy, friendship and belonging to hundreds of older adults each year.

“Every program we offer is designed to help seniors live safely, stay connected and maintain their independence,” Pope adds. “None of it would be possible without the support of our community — from volunteers to donors to corporate partners. They help us make a difference every day.”

In 2026, Senior Services North Fulton will celebrate their 35th anniversary with the theme Shine the Light – Celebrating 35 Years of Service to Our Seniors. All year long, endeavors will honor the past 35 years, look ahead to the next 35 and spotlight the seniors, volunteers and supporters who make the

work possible. Highlights include the Alpharetta Rotary Polar Bear Plunge on February 7, the “Shine the Light” Gala on June 5 and Giving Tuesday on December 1.

North Fulton residents, local companies, and community leaders are invited to shine the light. Your support — through sponsorships, donations, or volunteering — directly impacts the lives of seniors in North Fulton.

To join the celebration or learn how to get involved, contact Heather Terry at hterry@ssnorthfulton.org SSNorthfulton.org

STEPHEN BECKWITH

REALTOR® Dougie’s Dad

Elevating

When you step into your kitchen, what do you aspire to do? Master a new cooking technique? Serve food even your pickiest family member will eat with enthusiasm?

Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances are meticulously crafted to achieve a higher standard of performance, dependability, and style—so you can raise the bar on every meal you make.

Your future kitchen starts with Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, featured at

Comfort

and Joy

ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE ST. REGIS HOTEL

Holiday Traditions Shine Brightly at The St.Regis Hotel Atlanta

This holiday season, no one celebrates with more grace and grandeur than The St. Regis Atlanta . Here, timeless sophistication meets festive magic at the city’s most distinguished address. Every moment feels intentional, every detail a gesture of joy. The result is a season wrapped in warmth, elegance and timeless memories longing to be created.

The lobby glows in breathtaking splendor, anchored by a magnificent Christmas tree artfully designed by Jan Haedrich and MME.Mink. Trimmed to perfection, it shimmers as both a celebration of the holiday spirit and a tribute to the 120th

anniversary of St. Regis. Each ornament catches the light, reflecting a legacy of refinement and the artistry that defines the hotel. It is more than decor; it is an opalescent wonderland where tradition and imagination meet beneath the soft, glowing canopy of the season.

Just steps away, the Alpine-themed Astor Chalet transforms into a holiday shopping paradise with Lucy’s Market offering a curated selection of gourmet food, fine wine, bespoke ornaments and inspired gifts; each one chosen with the same care that defines St. Regis service. It’s a place of discovery and delight, where the joy of giving catches the spirit of the season, a little something for everyone on the list.

As evening falls, the timeless sabrage ritual feels even more luminous; a flash of steel, a cascade of bubbles and a toast to the season. This daily ceremony captures the essence of The St. Regis through celebration, precision and the effortless poetry of hospitality.

True fine service at Christmastime is an invisible art. It lives in graceful anticipation; where every gesture carries warmth and wonder. Whether you choose to raise a glass of Holiday Cheer at the famed Atlanta Bar or linger over a decadent Christmas Day Brunch; The

St.Regis is your destination for holiday fantasy. From the Holiday Tea with Santa in Astor Court to Santa tuck-ins and bedtime storytelling , every experience is designed to whisper: your memories are cherished.

Christmas at The St. Regis Atlanta is more than a season; it is a symphony of warmth, belonging and quiet joy. It’s where hospitality becomes art, and celebration becomes timeless. Here, amid candlelight and golden glow, the holidays shine brightly with heart, draped with elegance, heritage and wonder.

88 West Paces Ferry Rd

404.563.7900

Marriott.com

Your North Georgia Real Estate Team

27 Riverview Lane | Cherry Log

4 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms Offered for $1,650,000

A fully furnished riverfront retreat with 150 feet of Ellijay River frontage. Featuring an open main level with soaring wooden beams, a Texas Limestone fireplace, and a chef’s kitchen with Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, this home blends modern elegance with natural beauty. The main-level primary suite offers spa-like luxury, while the terrace level adds two guest rooms, two baths, and a spacious living area leading to a deck with direct river access. Laura

H O ME IS W H ERE T H E

HEARTH IS

HAVE A VERY HAPPY HANUKKAH

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATRINA MAXWELL

The best holiday conversations usually happen in the kitchen. Focusing on measuring, peeling, chopping and basting, we can chit chat or go for a deep dive with fellow cooks. Yes, a good kitchen will have thoughtfully spaced appliances, a ton of storage and plenty of work surfaces, but more importantly, a well-designed kitchen will invite conversations, with welllit places for all the sous chefs.

CONTINUED >

This pretty kitchen by The Designery Atlanta was created by Allie Hauser to showcase sleek countertops, trendy tile and custom storage solutions that the company is known for. Owner Allie Hauser and her team of creatives manage kitchen, bath and closet remodel products and new builds.

“We strive to build your vision, working with you and your family to complete your home project with our wide range of high-quality products, available at competitive prices,” says Allie.

This month, our design partner, Andria Parker of Haven Lane decorated one of the bright kitchens in The Designery’s expansive showroom.

Andria rolls out a special Hanukkah gathering with splashes of festive blue and a menorah as a reverent focal point for the kitchen.

Games (Smart) People Play

The North Atlanta High School Academic Decathlon Team on what to play this month.

In the world of academic competition –where test scores, essays and speeches determine glory – fun can be hard to come by. But for the North Atlanta High School Academic Decathlon team, joy came in the most unexpected form: a board game where the smartest students in the room had to sound, well… not so smart.

Poetry for Neanderthals, a word-guessing board game that forces players to speak in single-syllable “caveman talk,” became the team’s go-to ritual during both their state and national competitions.

This custom began at the Georgia state finals, when the pressure of cramming for interviews and essays began to dull the team’s energy. Morgan Herb, the team’s lead motivator, unpacked a box covered in cartoonish cavemen wielding clubs. Within minutes, the team’s quiet hotel room had turned into a prehistoric performance stage. “We spend all day trying to sound articulate,” joked Joi Gonzalez, one of the team’s captains. “But this game rewards the exact opposite.”

The rules are simple but comically restrictive: one player must get their teammates to guess a word or phrase using only one-syllable words. If they slip and use a longer word, another player bonks them with an inflatable club. Suddenly, honor students who could analyze transcendentalist literature or solve complex combinatorics questions were grunting like Stone Age poets. “Good word! You know... sky wet fall!” someone shouted, desperately trying to describe “rain.”

At first, the NAHS decathletes struggled with the limits of their newfound linguistic asphyxiation. Yet that struggle revealed something deeper. “We realized how much we rely on complex vocabulary to express ideas,” said one competitor. “But when that’s stripped away, it’s about creativity and plain ol’ laughter.”

For a team that thrives on intellect, the game became an exercise in humility and human connection.

When the team traveled to the national competition in Iowa, the

tradition continued. After long days filled with academic rigor and competitive nerves, Poetry for Neanderthals became their nightly decompression ritual. The halls of their hotel echoed with laughter and the rhythmic thuds of the inflatable “No!” stick. It was chaotic, cathartic and strangely unifying. “It reminded us why we love learning in the first place,” said their student coach. “Play isn’t the opposite of intelligence – it’s part of it.”

What made the game so fitting for this group was the irony. Here were some of the nation’s brightest students, capable of dissecting literature and memorizing historical minutiae, bonding over the inability to use big words. It stripped away hierarchy. The team’s MVP was just as lost as the alternate players when “refrigerator” became “cold food cave box.”

In a world obsessed with achievement, Poetry for Neanderthals offered a lesson in simplicity. It reminded a group of brilliant students that communication isn’t just about words – it’s about shared joy, a touch of creativity and a dash of courage to look a little ridiculous.

For the NAHS Academic Decathlon team, the smartest move they made all season wasn’t onstage, but around a board game table, speaking like cavemen and finding connection in laughter. Meet the team

Andres Gonzalez-Sanabria, Skye Kelley, Juana Han, Sophia Sethi, John Henry Collins, Zach Wilson, Joi Gonzalez, Triston Willis, Ava Youd, Morgan Herb, Jordan Watters, Ryan Conley

Busy Gifts

Prezzies for active kids and outdoorsy grown-ups

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

01 Get outdoorsy, but not too outdoorsy with a stay at the brand new collection of mountainside bungalows at The Hemlocks near Bryson City, NC. The Hemlocks by NOC (Nantahala Outdoor Center), offers stunning vacation rentals just a short walk from the Nantahala River, Lake Fontana, Flint Ridge and the Appalachian Trail. Fast wi-fi, community firepit, ADA units, dogs welcome. NOC.com/accommodations/hemlocks

02 Play All Day at Ready Set Fun. Your Kids or Grandkids Won’t Want to Leave. Give them a place to play, explore, and belong. A Ready Set Fun Membership means endless smiles for kids aged 1-8 and peace of mind for you. Clean, safe and stylish. 6331 Roswell Rd NE.  ReadySetFun.com/Membership

03 America's National Parks and Public Lands by Jacob W. Frank. Over the last ten years, photographer Jacob W. Frank has boated, climbed, caved, hiked, biked, skied, dog mushed, backpacked, snowmobiled, flown over and driven through some of the most scenic public lands the U.S. has to offer. Frank’s photographs serve as both a celebration of the natural world and a call to action, inspiring us to become stewards of the land and champions for its preservation. At your local book seller.

04 Black Hole® Tote 25L. This light and packable 25-liter tote swallows all the gear in your van but also lives for last-minute adventures in town. Built from 100% postconsumer recycled polyester body fabric, with 100% recycled nylon webbing. 34 E Andrews Dr NW, Patagonia.com

05 Adventure Camp Cozy Cabins Camping adventure LEGO® set This exciting building toy for kids comes with 3 mini-dolls, a fox figure and lots of accessories for imaginative play. LegoDiscoveryCenter.com

06 Know Your Knots Learn the best knots for outdoor adventures with Know Your Knots by Kiddo. This practical knot-tying kit includes 30 easy-to-learn knot instruction cards and two 2-footlong practice ropes. REI.com

07 Bass High-Waisted Leggings by Fishe Wear. Gear is field-tested by women who hike, cast and climb—and then grab tacos after. With high-rise waistbands and just-right compression, our gear moves with you from trailhead to town. FisheWear.com

08 Skeletool CX packs the most essential tools into a lightweight, easy-to-carry package. The pliers, bit driver and wire cutters will come in handy more often than you expect. leatherman.com or where you buy cool stuff.

Hernandez Stone Work is a professional Stone Work Company dedicated to customer satisfaction. Our company’s objective is to unfailingly meet the needs and expectations of clients through the service that we provide. We strive to remain equipped with the best designs and tools, to meet what the client is searching for.

ART THAT SPEAKS TO YOU AND FOR YOU

Whether looking for something colorful and eye-catching or a piece that merges seamlessly into your surroundings, we offer a wide range of options on our site.

• Beautifully blended color palette prints

• Monochromatic patterns and designs.

• Available on various media, including metal and acrylic canvas, 8" x 8" to 48" x 48"

• O rder prints on yoga mats, shower curtains, fleece blankets, mugs, throw pillows, and so much more.

F ind a great gift for someone special or show yourself some love

As Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta opens its North Druid Hills campus, we will provide families unprecedented access to A New World of Care. Steps away from specialized pediatric healthcare, pharmacies, grocery stores and other conveniences of home, the new House will allow families to connect, find comfort, build hope and heal through welcoming indoor spaces and imaginative outdoor play areas.

Our team remains thoughtful about how we will grow while maintaining the warm, inviting feeling you get when you are coming home to stay with family. We are honored to have  kept more than 80,000 families together and close to life-saving care during their most difficult times. Today the need has never been greater. Countless more families will make the journey to Atlanta in search of medical treatment for their children, full of worry and uncertainty about what the future will bring, and we can’t support them without you.

This year, we proudly recognize Bob and Wanda Swoszowski for their decades of dedication to our mission. Bob, a recently retired McDonald’s Owner/Operator, and Wanda have been unwavering champions of the families we serve — leaving a lasting legacy of care and compassion.

RonaldMcdonaldHouseatl.org

Go ahead, unplug and be kind to yourself with a night out at Valenza. Alone!

Silent Night, Solo Night

The toughest task you’ll tick off your list this holiday season is taking time to slow down.

We are here to give you permission to take a night off. Alone! Order the food YOU like. Sip as many mocktails as you wish, write cards to far-flung friends and pause to reflect on your very good fortune.

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOLIE LOREN

“We are here to give you permission to take a night off. Alone! Order the food YOU like. Sip as many mocktails as you wish, write cards to far-flung friends and pause to reflect on your very good fortune.”

That’s what Cara Kneer, host of Atlanta & Company on 11Alive, decided to do at Valenza in Brookhaven where she met Word of Mouth Restaurants owner, Michel Arnette for a toast followed by some “me time.”

We caught up with Cara and peeked over her shoulder at her list.

Books to give friends: I would say anything Tanya Sam recommends. She has a book club and I have found so many brilliant authors through her suggestions. I also just finished David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell. An older book, but impactful still today.

Health and beauty product for the girlfriends: I’ve really been into the Korean Skin sheet masks!  I am currently loving the Biodance BioCollagen Sheet mask. It’s affordable too at only $19 for 4!

Cool gadgets to give: My brother is a very cool guy and a great gift-giver. We usually get each other something silly – so in that vein, maybe one of those motion lights for your toilet.

to light up your

it real with these

just

Favorite old school toy for the kids: The toy that never disappoints and still gets lots of action in our household is a Simon!

Where to give time and resources: The Boyce L Ansley School relies on donations from the community. It is a private, tuition-free school for children who have experienced homelessness or are currently homeless. It’s so vital to our city. Please go to TheAnsleySchool.org or attend a gala and experience the greatness there firsthand.

DECEMBER 2025

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 1ST

A Christmas Carol

Coca-Cola Stage at Alliance Theatre | 7:00 PM

Follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his transformative journey through past, present and future as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas. With stunning sets, mesmerizing special effects and a cast that brings Dickens’ beloved characters to life, this cherished classic is the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends.  Through December 24. AllianceTheatre.org

DECEMBER 6TH

Wreath Decoration for Atlanta’s Heroes

Veranda, Buckhead V illage | 12:00 PM

Join the craft table to complete with all the wreaths and decorating supplies you’ll need to craft something beautiful. Drop by for a few minutes or stay the whole day. Your creativity will help brighten the holidays for those who serve our community.

DECEMBER 6TH

Holiday Tree Lighting in Buckhead

Charlie Loudermilk Park  | 7:00 PM

Livable Buckhead invites you to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with an unforgettable evening of fun and festivity! Start your journey with a cozy cup of hot cocoa from the Hot Chocolate Crawl in the Buckhead Village District, then take a stroll to Charlie Loudermilk Park for our spectacular Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration.

DECEMBER 6TH AND 13TH

Miracle on Peachtree –Hot Chocolate Crawls  Buckhead

Live music, seasonal drinks and the holiday atmosphere. Admission is free, and with a $5 donation to Livable Buckhead, receive a commemorative campfire mug. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase at participating locations. Buckhead Village District - Dec. 6, 4 - 7 pm and Lenox Square / Phipps Plaza - Dec. 13, 4 - 7 pm.

DECEMBER 11TH

Kanjani Holiday Choral Concert

Trinity Presbyterian Church, 3003 Howell Mill Rd NW | 7:00 PM

Now in their second season, the polished youth choir's program includes carols and other holiday favorites. These unique arrangements provide a glimpse into the familiar, inviting the audience to remain emotionally connected while allowing space for reimagination through new harmonies and voicings. They will also perform with the Trey Clegg Singers at 6 p.m., December 14, The Church at Wieuca.

DECEMBER 13TH, 14TH

Virginia-Highlands Tour of Homes

Virginia Highlands | 12:00 PM

Celebrate 50 years of neighborhood pride and architectural charm with a showcase of 10 beautifully decorated homes. Proceeds from the Tour of Homes benefit the Virginia-Highland Civic Association and its work with civic engagement, local schools, parks and community improvement projects.  VaHiTourOfHomes.org

Seated in Atlanta’s finest neighborhood, Buckhead’s Corso Residences blend wellness, hospitality, and design into one quintessential experience. Residency with Corso Atlanta is enlivened by a comprehensive suite of wellness and personal care services that anticipate and fulfill your every request.