Decatur, GA February 2026

LIFE + CULTURE

BIRD CITY PRIDE

RISING PERFORMERS

ARTS + CULTURE

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

TRAVEL

ROMANTIC ESCAPES

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD TREE SERVICE.

Tree Care Tips

• Check for Hazardous Trees: Winter storms can bring down weak trees or limbs. Inspect for dead branches, leaning trunks, or decay. Call an arborist if unsure.

• Prune for Safety & Health: Late winter pruning strengthens trees and prevents disease. Remove weak or overgrown branches to promote healthy spring growth.

• Mulch & Protect Roots: Add mulch around the base (but not against the trunk) to insulate roots, retain moisture, and prevent soil erosion.

• Plan for Spring Planting: Now is the time to choose native trees and schedule early spring planting for the best start.

• Watch for Pests & Disease: Even in winter, pests and fungal infections can threaten trees. Look for holes, sap oozing, or discolored leaves. Early action can save a tree!

Love Local. Lead Local. Lift Decatur.

In this month's issue of sharing local community interests and what makes Decatur so special, we have some exciting news about the next chapter of our publication. Caroline Ficken who has been an amazing publisher will be transitioning into a more editorial-focused role for the magazine. Local storytelling has always been her true passion, and we are grateful to have her continue this important work right here with Decatur City Lifestyle! Also we are thrilled to let you all know we are the new publishers, Lisa Thibault and Lan Pham. We have built and lead multiple successful businesses and magazines in the greater Atlanta area, and are excited to add Decatur to the multimedia strategy platforms. Our passion is supporting local businesses, engaging meaningful local stories and lifting up each community and are excited to make Decatur a part of this too! We are deeply committed to honoring what makes Decatur City Lifestyle special while bringing fresh energy, growth, and a long-term vision to the magazine. Thank you, as always, for your supporting our efforts. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve our partners and highlight the businesses that make our Decatur what it is. We are proud of what has been built — and even more excited about what’s ahead.

Cheers,

LISA THIBAULT,

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Caroline Ficken | caroline.ficken@citylifestyle.com

SALES MANAGER

Lan Pham | lan.pham@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Erin Camin, Josh Cornwall, Natalie Fox

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Caroline Ficken, Kristen Hansen, Courtney Whyte-May, Jonathan Wade

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Decatur’s newest designation, “Bird City”, highlights our city’s commitment to wildlife conservation.

The Power of Performance

Decatur Performs nurtures the creative spark in our city’s youth while supporting exceptional educators.

Dreamy Escapes Near and Far

Local travel advisor, Erin Camin of Brilliant Escapes, shares inspired destinations for modern romance

An

city scene

1: @fleetfeetdecatur and @purebarredecatur hosted “Shila’s First Mile Back” in support of the Furniture Bank last week! 2: Decatur honors its annual Hometown Heroes, celebrating nearly three decades of volunteerism and community impact. 3: Better Together Advisory Board honors Kemper Pelvio Physio, Oakview Coffee, Oakhurst Market, and Green Office with the Welcoming Business Award. 4: Decatur Business Association celebrates inaugural DBA Awards honoring Opo Coffee, Little Shop of Stories, and My Virtual CFO. 5: Strand & Vine is now opne for business in Downtown Decatur! 6: The Community Center of South Decatur celebrates and provides grants to Decatur nonprofits. 7: Roaring Social hosts one of its favorites- Band X for New Year’s Eve.

business monthly

Love Y’all Romance Book Fest Returns to Downtown Decatur

Love Y’all Romance Book Fest is an inclusive celebration of romance February 13–15, 2026, at the Courtyard by Marriott in Downtown Decatur.  Expect nearly 100 authors, bookish vendors, two full days of panels and signings (exploring tropes, diversity, fantasy, craft sessions, and more), plus a Sunday Truth or Dare/Battle of the Tropes opener and closing keynote & signing. Kick off Fri with exclusive author experiences and enjoy an epic weekend for romance fans. loveyallfest.com

Relationship Bootcamp for Couples in Decatur

Build a relationship rooted in compassion and collaboration for lasting connection. In one weekend, gain the tools and insights of 7–10 months of traditional therapy. Learn practical skills you can use immediately, guided by Decatur therapists Amy Robbins, LPC, and Sheri Hardin, LCSW. amyrobbinscounseling.com/relationship-bootcamps

Takumi Offers Valentine’s Kaiseki Dinner Experience

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an unforgettable Kaiseki Dinner at Takumi. Priced at $180 per person, the special menu features chawanmushi, sunomono, chef’s selections of sashimi and nigiri, seared live lobster, soup, and dessert. Perfect for a romantic night out, reservations are limited.

Call (404) 855-5488 to reserve your table.

The DeKalb History Center’s 18th Annual Black History Month Celebration

The DeKalb History Center will host its 18th Annual Black History Month Celebration, “Stepping into Tradition: The Divine Nine,” honoring the nine historically Black Greek letter organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council. The event highlights their legacy of service, leadership, and community uplift in DeKalb County. It takes place Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse. dekalbhistory.org

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even the picky ones! We are an

conscious

with transparent ingredients, so you always know what is going to be on your plate.

Decatur’s newest designation, “Bird City”, highlights our city’s commitment to wildlife conservation.

SOFT LANDINGS

ARTICLE BY NATALIE FOX | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTNEY WHYTE-MAY

Walking along the trails of Legacy Park, a mere mile from downtown Decatur, is akin to a full nature immersion. Sunlight glistens across the beaver-constructed wetlands as twigs crunch with every step, and a cascade of bird calls plays as if on surround sound. Fastidiously cleared by Trees Atlanta, there’s a sense of widening expanse that emphasizes the beauty unfurling in every direction. Allison Ericson is the lead steward of this land, serving as our city’s Urban Naturalist, and she supports every green space in Decatur alongside the other Public Works departments. This collaboration with the city’s grounds crew, arborist, zoning, Parks and Recreation, Legacy Decatur,

and sanitation departments is vital to co-managing Legacy Park’s 22-acre conservation area. Her expert eye is evident when walking alongside her; she spots the tiniest changes in the terrain with a consistent curiosity that appears to light her up from within. “I love my job. I feel like it's a privilege to be a steward of these spaces. So I feel really fortunate,” she says. You can feel the utter care behind supporting our city’s natural spaces, which is evident in their thoughtful design and upkeep, carefully cultivated to support both wildlife and humanity.

Along those lines is Decatur’s newest designation: Bird City Decatur. Granted by The Bird City Network, a national organization, the moniker was awarded this past October, and we are the first city in all of Georgia to receive this distinction. A community member brought the application to Allison’s attention, and upon reviewing the qualifications, they realized Decatur already met the requirements. Being a “Bird City” entails multiple initiatives that support bird populations, thus enhancing the overall natural health of the area. It also provides our city with access to more grants, bestows national recognition on Decatur, and raises overall awareness of the importance of protecting our natural resources. Many organizations and city departments contribute to the efforts. Invasive plant removals are performed by Allison, Trees Atlanta, Woods Keeper, hired contractors, and volunteers from neighborhood groups through the Decatur Greenspace Alliance (an organization Allison started to provide them with native plants, tools such as shovels and gloves, lawn bags, and rocks to border pollinator gardens) The Intown Chapter of Georgia Native Plant Society and Beech Hollow Farms serve as an excellent resource for the city and community. Native and pollinator plants are continually planted to replace the removed invasive species, so even the smallest available green space is utilized, working to beautify our city while supporting the overall ecosystem. This creates and restores habitats for birds and other wildlife, a key initiative to promote ecological health.

Increasing awareness is an integral part of their mission, which educates our residents through free guided hikes led by Birds Georgia, as well as signage detailing bird identifiers, the impact of domestic cats on the bird population, and details on the wetlands. Over 181 species of birds have been identified at Legacy Park alone. Our city works to minimize light pollution, window strikes, and

“Nature is called a wonder for a reason, and it’s an honor to commune with wildlife in any green space you can.”

“Finding solace and calmness in these little neighborhood parks is something I think we all need.”

pesticide use, while the implementation of dark sky lighting further reduces threats to bird populations and helps encourage migration rates. Project Safe Flight Decatur monitors buildings during the spring and fall migration periods to assist any birds who experience collisions. The Atlanta chapter of the Georgia Native Plants Society is a vital contributor, and Wild Nest bird rehabilitation serves hundreds of birds every year (on top of their spectacular education efforts). The passion, collaboration, and joint mission of the contributors feel infectious. Vicki Mendez of Trees Atlanta comes across our path while working to clear brush along the wetlands path to heighten visibility. “We planted all fruiting species this year that produce nuts to support the wildlife. I wanted to go with the theme of the bird hub,” Vicki explains. These symbiotic partnerships work towards each organization’s individual missions while supporting properties that would be overgrown and in ill health without such efforts.  Allison exudes a grounded serenity, a seeming result of her years communing with nature, and her passion for the power found in preserving our green spaces is galvanizing. Growing up in Kennesaw, she spent much of her childhood outside, roaming the woods and the nearby creek in her backyard. She cites a specific memory of nature bringing her solace: in high school, her boyfriend broke up with her right before a big dance, and she was experiencing her first heartbreak. She sat on the bridge overlooking the creek when her father came and sat beside her, talking her through her feelings, and she found great relief. In college, she was pre-med, but after her father’s death and spending so much time in hospitals, she switched to environmental studies. Allison then spent over 20 years in the field, most recently at the Wylde Center, and her current role as Urban Naturalist is unique. She focuses on utilizing Decatur’s urban green spaces (close to 200 acres in total) to benefit the community - whether it's taking a walk, reflecting on a bench, or gathering with neighbors. Nature serves as a space to find peace, an experience that Allison strives to provide all

across Decatur. Where she isn’t directly providing it, she supports the efforts of others, and she especially spotlights the volunteer neighborhood groups doing beautiful work. Anyone interested in bringing more beauty and health to their local green spaces can reach out to her for supplies and funding for neighborhood beautification projects. There’s money and support out there for those dedicated to preserving and enjoying their immediate environment. Furthermore, Allison and her team are always looking for passionate naturalists interested in volunteering to lead hikes or share their own nature-based expertise.

One volunteer, Tony Abel (a retiree from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s watershed module), started the beaver dam hikes, which guide attendees along a stunning trail around the wetlands, wherein you can see the meticulous construction work their resident beavers have put into five dams. These monthly hikes have brought in over 400 total participants thus far, and teach attendees how beavers create healthier ecosystems by infilling streams and creating wetlands. After Hurricane Helene, the water in the main wetland was noticeably reduced, but as the beavers have reworked their dams, the wetlands are now fully back to their pre-hurricane levels. This provides food, habitat, and landing space for birds, amphibians, and turtles. The wetlands’ water is spring-fed, thus completely clean. Nature is called a wonder for a reason, and it’s an honor to commune with wildlife in any green space you can. It feels like another world in Legacy Park, even though it’s right off Columbia Drive. The hikes are completely free and capped at twenty-five people for safety and enjoyment purposes. All you have to do is register online, and then bask in nature’s majesty.

These spaces are endlessly worth protecting and preserving; the evidence is clear in the already robust volunteer community. From the Decatur Greenspace Alliance, which supports neighborhood volunteers, to corporate volunteer groups at Legacy Decatur and youth work groups through the National 4H program, Allison points out the

areas that dozens of people have recently tended to, clearing brush and laying stonework with care. The Wylde Center contributed over 1,100 volunteer hours in this year alone. Trees Atlanta manages thousands of volunteers and has been contributing to the city’s efforts at Legacy Park for over 5 years. These efforts support our bird populations as well as migratory birds, other wildlife ecosystems, and our own environmental wellness. You can witness the marks of their hard work while walking along the trails. English ivy cleared here, freshly planted native plants there, and budding wildlife all around. Community engagement is key to these efforts, and it is inspiring and galvanizing to see the amazing impact residents have already poured into our city’s green spaces. The wetlands are now home to freshwater clams, mussels, and crawfish. When asked about her favorite discovery thus far, Allison shares, “I found a little musk turtle - that was an exciting one. It's something that in my 20-plus years of environmental education I had never found, so that was really exciting.”

Nature has benefits for us all, especially children. In reference to Richard Louv’s book, Last Child in the Woods , Allison cites how, in addition to the mental health benefits for children that nature instills, it also is proven to improve “educational

retention when learning about natural topics outdoors.” Deepening education initiatives is one of Allison’s visions for our city, and with her illustrious background at nature centers, she would love to see one created at Legacy Park. In the more immediate future, Decatur will host the Migratory Bird Day festival on May 9th at 9:00 am, which will feature “a nature walk to explore the birding hotspot, activities, and bird-focused story time”. An exciting new development is the city’s purchase of an all-terrain wheelchair, enabling everyone to access the beautiful trails in our area. Accessibility is at the core of our city’s green space initiatives. By providing care for natural areas free to the public, our community’s well-being is enhanced, and Decatur’s mission to provide a high quality of life for residents is met. There are myriad opportunities for us to commit ourselves to our own neighborhoods’ ecosystem and come together for beautification and ecological well-being. Money and supplies are out there; one simply needs to gather a group, set a mission, and get to work. “Finding solace and calmness in these little neighborhood parks is something I think we all need,” Allison shares. It’s endlessly rewarding, and if the passion I’ve witnessed from those who do this for a living is any indication, it’s an absolute life-enhancer.

THE POWER OF PERFORMANCE

Decatur Performs nurtures the creative spark in our city’s youth while supporting exceptional educators.

ARTICLE BY NATALIE FOX

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN HANSEN

Creativity and collaboration collide to precipitate a magical sort of osmosis at Decatur Performs. Feelings of belonging are forged, insecurities are washed away, and the communal spirit sparked can move mountains. Ingrid Anderson, President of Decatur Performs, has witnessed the life-changing magic of the performing arts. This organization, a proper 501(c)

“Feelings of belonging are forged, insecurities are washed away, and the communal spirit sparked can move mountains.”

(3), encompasses the performing arts programs at Beacon Hill Middle School and Decatur High School. Decatur Performs supports five programs at the high school (Orchestra, Chorus, Musical Theatre, Acting, Technical Theatre) and three at the middle school (Orchestra, Chorus, Theatre). It includes Decatur’s only theatre and is exceptionally worth supporting. They host over 40 performances every school year, educating and uplifting hundreds of students.

The power of involvement in the performing arts is proven; college acceptance and attendance rates are increased. It provides an excellent opportunity for social development while offering hands-on experience from influential educators. Ingrid vehemently applauds the teachers for their demonstrable collaboration and mutual respect amongst the departments. Joint efforts and camaraderie between the

different disciplines provide an excellent example for the kids. On the parents' side, it’s extraordinary to see how much extremely busy yet dedicated volunteers can get done in the name of performance. Parents come together to feed kids during tech week, manage ticket sales, and run the bag check. More than that, Decatur Performs’ ability to garner donations as an official nonprofit enhances all the departmental experiences. Finances are utilized effectively and intentionally: teacher bonuses, chorus formalwear, risers, instruments, and more are funded directly by their organization, filling in the gaps where the city cannot provide.

These programs thrive due to the “amazing educators who really go the extra mile,” Ingrid explains. Their commitment helps make this singularly special effort a success. The teachers pour all their talent

and expertise into every artistic decision and curriculum planning unit. This excellence is made possible by parents taking things off the teacher’s plate that can be easily delegated and by simply showing up. One of the best ways for parents to help build their own children’s artistic programs is to advocate with the administration. The more voices emphasizing the need for additional funds and space make all the difference. We all experience seasons of life, and it’s encouraging to see how each parent shows up in whatever way is possible for them in any given year; whether contributing physically, financially, or both, every bit helps. The disciplines supported by Decatur Performs have the awards to back up their efforts. They send the most choral singers to All-State every year from any non-performing arts school. Kids are accepted to incredible universities, thousands of tickets are sold every year, and unforgettable experiences (on stage and off) are created for everyone involved.

How can our Decatur residents support the amazing work this organization is doing? Attend performances and witness the incredible efforts dozens of individuals put into every show, and donate whenever possible. For many kids, their performing arts classes are one of the first times they feel a true sense of belonging. The life skills built (commitment, multi-tasking, and teamwork, to name a few) bloom alongside a social network of other kids who share their passions. Often, they wouldn’t spend time together if not for this love of craft, and it expands social circles while cementing the power of shared experiences. Whether creating a performance or simply witnessing one, humanity blossoms through shared emotions, and art is a riveting way to open one’s mind, soften one’s heart, and garner true inspiration along the way. It’s awe-inspiring to witness an organization like Decatur Performs, pulling together students, teachers, and parents in a shared mission: to create artistic experiences made to affect the community members in attendance. In the words of Decatur High School’s Musical Theater Director, Raven Owen-Beyer, “In a world where so many arts programs are hanging on by a thread, Decatur Performs is enabling us to create top-tier productions with our students. I could not be more grateful." Bask in shared humanity among growing talent with Decatur Performs.

Learn more at decaturperforms.org and on Instagram @decaturperforms and don’t miss “Alice By Heart” opening March 5th at Decatur High School.

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ROMANCE, REIMAGINED:

Dreamy Escapes Near and Far

Local travel advisor, Erin Camin of Brilliant Escapes Travel, shares inspired destinations for modern romance.

ARTICLE BY ERIN CAMIN

Whether you love Valentine’s Day or prefer to skip the roses and prix-fixe menus, there’s no denying the appeal of a romantic escape. And romance, of course, isn’t one-size-fits-all. It might mean adventure and fresh air, oldworld elegance and great wine, or a luxurious weekend close to home with zero stress.

We plan many anniversaries and couples trips each year, and one of our favorite parts of the process is dreaming up destinations that go beyond the obvious. Here are a few inspired ideas—some unexpected, some timeless, and one close to home—to spark ideas for your next romantic getaway.

ALASKA: UNEXPECTED, ADVENTUROUS, AND UTTERLY MAGICAL

Alaska may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think “romantic,” but for adventurous couples, it can be absolutely unforgettable. Imagine falling asleep beneath the stars in a cozy, luxurious igloo, with the Northern Lights visible from your bed. Days might include a spa visit or a dog-sledding excursion through snow-covered forests, while evenings are spent enjoying great food, wine, and quiet moments together.

Traveling to Fairbanks allows couples to stay in unique accommodations like Borealis Basecamp, where aurora viewing is best from late August through mid-April. With extra time, Denali National Park or Anchorage make wonderful additions. For those who prefer their adventure paired with fine dining and pampering, an Alaskan cruise offers dramatic glacier views, elegant onboard experiences, and memorable shore excursions.

Romance doesn’t always look like roses—it can look like Northern Lights dancing across the sky.

CROATIA: SUN, SEA, AND EFFORTLESS ROMANCE

Croatia continues to rise as one of Europe’s most popular destinations, and it’s easy to see why couples are drawn to it. The Dalmatian Coast offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and indulgence. A classic route begins in Split and ends in Dubrovnik, with stops along the way that invite you to slow down and savor the Adriatic lifestyle.

Days might include a private boat charter to nearby islands, wandering historic old towns, or enjoying a full-day wine and culinary experience in places like Hvar or Korčula. Whether you have one week or two, Croatia delivers romance that feels natural and unforced.

PARIS… WITH A SPARKLING DETOUR

Paris may be the City of Love, but one of the most romantic moves is venturing just beyond it. Less than two hours away lies the Champagne region—rolling vineyards, charming villages, and grand châteaux that feel straight out of a fairytale.

A short stay at properties like Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa or Château Les Crayères pairs beautifully with private tastings, candlelit dinners, and scenic countryside drives. Champagne is ideal for a threenight escape and works perfectly alongside time in Paris or a French river cruise.

Sometimes the most romantic destination is the one just beyond the obvious.

LOCAL LOVE: A LUXE ESCAPE CLOSE TO HOME

For those who prefer to stay closer to home, a romantic staycation can still feel special—especially when it’s thoughtfully chosen. Just over an hour from Decatur, The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee offers a refined lakeside retreat with a luxurious spa, exceptional dining, outdoor activities, and private sunset cruises aboard classic Chris-Craft boats. It’s an easy escape that still feels indulgent—perfect for long weekends and busy schedules.

Whether your ideal romantic getaway involves icy landscapes, sun-soaked coastlines, Champagne bubbles, or a serene lake nearby, the right destination can turn time away into something truly memorable. Romance, after all, is less about where you go—and more about how effortlessly you get there.

ERIN CAMIN | @BRILLIANTESCAPES

Erin is the founder of  Brilliant Escapes Travel , a boutique luxury travel advisory specializing in personalized, experience-driven journeys for busy professionals. With a love of adventure and culinary travel, she designs seamless trips that combine thoughtful planning, elevated experiences, and ease—so clients can focus on enjoying the journey.  brilliantescapes.com

Loving Decatur, From the Inside

An inside look at the program connecting residents to the people and processes shaping Decatur.

On a Thursday morning in late winter, a group of Decatur residents gathers not for a town hall or a public hearing, but for something far more personal: a behind-the-scenes look at the city they already love.

That’s the heart of Decatur 101, an eightweek civic education program designed to help residents understand how the City of Decatur really works, who does what, how decisions are made, and how everyday people can play a role in shaping the community. Founded in 2000, the program has quietly become one of the city’s most meaningful expressions of local love.

“The purpose of Decatur 101 is to put a face on government,” says Renae Jackson, the city’s Equity and Engagement Director, who now facilitates the program. “It’s about helping people understand where their tax dollars go, but also helping them see the real humans behind the work.”

Classes are held once a year and run for eight weeks, with both morning and evening options to accommodate different schedules. Participants meet in city buildings across Decatur, from City Hall to Public Works to the fire department, learning directly from staff who keep the city running. Along the way, they take part in hands-on activities like budget simulations, recycling exercises, and a Smart Growth walking tour.

ARTICLE BY JOSH CORNWALL

Over the past 25 years, Decatur 101 has evolved in response to participant feedback. What began as a shorter, single-session offering has grown into a more interactive experience that prioritizes engagement over lectures. “We survey participants every year,” Jackson says. “We want to know what will make this a meaningful use of their time, and we adjust the program accordingly.”

That intentional design has created a devoted following. Jackson recalls participants who took the class decades ago and signed up again. One resident attended the very first Decatur 101 in 2000 and returned years later to better understand how the city had changed. Another participant, after missing just one session, asked to retake the entire course with a neighbor.

For many, the biggest surprise is the scope of city services, especially departments like Public Works and Fire. “People don’t always realize how much goes into prevention and planning,” Jackson says. “Our fire department does a tremendous amount of community

safety work, even when there aren’t fires to put out. Public Works touches nearly every part of daily life.”

Just as important as the content is the connection. Participants don’t just meet city staff, they meet each other. Neighbors from different parts of Decatur find themselves collaborating, problem-solving, and learning side by side. Some classes even stay connected long after the program ends, maintaining group chats and friendships that continue well beyond graduation.

That connection often turns into action. Graduates of Decatur 101 have gone on to serve on volunteer boards and commissions, assist with city festivals, participate in strategic planning, and even run for office. Jackson calls them “ambassadors,” residents who help spread accurate information and encourage others to engage.

“When there’s misinformation out there, we’ll often see Decatur 101 graduates jump in to help correct it,” she says. “They’re paying attention. They know the process.”

At its core, Decatur 101 isn’t about politics or policy. It’s about creating a sense of belonging. It’s for longtime residents and newcomers, for people who live in Decatur and those who work there, and for anyone curious about how a community functions when it’s rooted in relationships.

“Connection and relationship-building are essential,” Jackson says. “When you know your neighbors and understand the people doing the work, it becomes easier to have hard conversations. We become a better community.”

The next Decatur 101 class begins February 5, with limited spots available and a waitlist already forming. For those who love Decatur and want to love it even more, it might be the most eye-opening eight weeks they’ll ever spend in the city.

Date Night

AT HOME

THREE CREATIVE IDEAS TO CELEBRATE LOVE

ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL

Not every date night needs to involve reservations or an elaborate itinerary. With a little creativity, you can create magical moments right at home. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to reconnect, here are three ideas for unforgettable at-home date nights.

Transform your backyard or balcony into a dreamy picnic spot! Spread out a cozy blanket, add a few fluffy pillows, and hang string lights or fairy lights for ambiance. A small fire pit or lanterns can also add a romantic glow.

Pack a picnic basket with finger foods and a bottle of wine or sparkling water. Don’t forget a decadent dessert like chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Lay back and stargaze, identifying constellations or making wishes on shooting stars. To make it extra romantic, bring a bluetooth speaker and play soft music.

Unleash your inner artists with one of these three fun and interactive dates. Grab some inexpensive canvases, brushes, and acrylic paints from the craft store. Don’t forget aprons or old clothes to protect against spills!

• Paint each other’s portraits for a mix of laughter and creativity.

• Work on a collaborative paintingeach person adds their own touch to a single canvas.

• Try a themed painting challenge, like recreating your favorite memory together.      Pair this date with a cheese platter and wine and don’t worry about being “good’ at painting - it’s all about enjoying the process together.

Start the day with love by turning breakfast into an indulgent experience. Prepare a tray with a DIY breakfast charcuterie board. Include mini pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, bacon, and pastries. Add small bowls of toppings like syrup, Nutella, or whipped cream.

Mix up mimosas or serve coffee with flavored syrups and whipped cream for a café vibe. Then, snuggle up in bed and watch a favorite movie or TV series.

YOUR LOCAL PRINTING PRESS

CUSTOM CREATIONS ABOUND AT MINUTEMAN PRESS IN THE HEART OF AVONDALE ESTATES.

ARTICLE BY NATALIE FOX PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLINE FICKEN

Minuteman Press offers expert-quality printing and physical branding services. Established in November 2018, they are in their eighth year and have a new, expanded location in Avondale Estates at 127 Center Street, next to Billy’s Sandwich Shop. Now, their shop and production space are all under one roof, enhancing and expanding their capabilities. With more square footage comes more equipment, and Minuteman Press is thrilled with its two digital presses, along with their finishing equipment and wide-format equipment. Laser cutters, engravers, embroidery, and screen-printing

devices all bring exceptional potential to every project. “We’re pretty diverse,” Eric Burrill, the owner of Minuteman Press in Avondale Estates, says. “We have a lot of capacity to customize business branding for our customers, and be able to work with them not just on print. We can do much more than that for them.” Promotional products, custom business branding, and opportunities for multiple customer touch points are all on the table.

Eric has dedicated himself to business development since 2006, and this latest venture highlights his passion for fellow business owners. As a locally owned and operated business, they are dedicated to serving fellow local businesses and residents for all their printing needs. He understands the power of visual branding and enjoys bringing customized designs to life. Marketing materials and branding are essential for a successful business, and Minuteman Press works diligently to make every person’s design shine, utilizing every element to its full potential. There are also fabulous gift opportunities. Personalized cards, coffee mugs, and ornaments bring a sentimental touch to any occasion. Some customers even print photos of their pets onto custom t-shirts, which is as fun and sweet as one can imagine. Eric shared that Minuteman Press helps create custom prop items for movie sets, which is always an exciting collaborative project. Unique awards can be produced from scratch, and they pour their efforts into deeply meaningful projects such as funeral programs.

Minuteman Press crafts projects for the City of Avondale Estates and the City of Decatur to provide physical branding for events such as flyers, tickets, menus, or, most recently, a Winter Wonderland passport booklet. Eric

cites one exceptionally special production project, where they produced a bound historical book for a local 84-year-old author. Minuteman Press loves this community, describing it as “unique, active, and constantly developing for the better.” They mirror those same qualities and especially love to sponsor local events as they truly believe in bringing neighbors together. Recently, Minuteman Press took over TOCO Instant Print, a 51-year-old staple in the community. These types of acquisitions help widen their reach while keeping the heart of local businesses run by neighbors that make Avondale Estates and Decatur stand out in the scope of Atlanta. With their newly minted space and growing network, they’re the ideal go-to for all your printing and production needs.  At the heart of Minuteman Press is producing materials that help build businesses and strengthen community organizations through impactful outreach. They find immense satisfaction in serving fellow local businesses, neighbors, churches, and charities. “Whether it helps them in their personal life or in business,” Eric says with touching sincerity, “It’s always a special thing.”

Stepping into Tradition

For 18 years, the DeKalb History Center has marked Black History Month with celebrations that illuminate different facets of our community’s rich cultural heritage. This year’s theme, “Stepping into Tradition: The Divine Nine,” honors the nine historically Black Greek letter organizations that form the National Pan-Hellenic Council—a legacy of resilience, service, and brotherhood that continues to shape DeKalb County today.

“We have such a notable population of African Americans living here in DeKalb County, and quite a number of them are part of these organizations,” explains Monica El-Amin, African American History Coordinator at the DeKalb History Center.

The Divine Nine includes four sororities— Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta

Phi Beta, and Sigma Gamma Rho—and five fraternities: Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, and Iota Phi Theta.

These organizations emerged from necessity, formed at historically Black colleges and universities to provide community and scholarship when Black students faced exclusion from other Greek life organizations. But they became so much more—vital spaces for leadership development, networking, and a deep commitment to public service that continues today.

“These organizations were founded to promote brotherhood, sisterhood, and community uplift,” El-Amin says. “Members carry their organizational pride into the community, spreading brotherhood and sisterhood while actively working to keep their community thriving.”

The February 26th celebration at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse will honor traditions that have become synonymous with Black Greek life. For El-Amin, these traditions hold personal significance. “I grew up around people in these different organizations,” she recalls. “As early as seven years old, I remember seeing my teachers doing step performances of their respective sororities and fraternities.” Additional event details will be announced soon.

This year’s theme aligns perfectly with the DeKalb History Center’s mission to collect, preserve, and share stories that reflect our county’s diversity. “We believe that everybody’s story is worth collecting and telling,” El-Amin emphasizes. “This adds another layer to our commitment to champion diverse storytelling and historical preservation.”

For younger generations, El-Amin hopes the celebration conveys an important message: “The work that African American students are putting into their communities is valued and is being seen. Community is always important, and it’s good to be able to serve and uplift your community as you move forward through life.”

The DeKalb History Center’s 18th Annual Black History Month Celebration takes place Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse. The celebration is a ticketed luncheon event open to all. Sponsorship opportunities are available for community members and organizations interested in supporting the DeKalb History Center’s mission.

The DeKalb History Center Celebrates the Divine Nine

ARTICLE BY CAROLINE FICKEN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN WADE