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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!

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Sati Yoga & Wellness is Atlanta’s home for non-heated mindful movement. Located in the heart of Kirkwood, our mission is to provide deep, trauma-informed practices aimed to restore and rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. With inclusive staff and a wide variety of rest and meditation practices, we are home for people that are interested in turning inward.

Discover a school where your child’s inner light can shine. At the Friends School of Atlanta, we nurture academic excellence through Quaker values like community, equality and stewardship. With small class sizes, a diverse and inclusive environment, and programs like our Innovation Lab and silent meeting, FSA offers a transformative educational experience. Open enrollment for the 2025–26 school year is now live. Apply today and join a community that inspires lifelong learning and compassionate leadership. friendsschoolatlanta.org | 404.373.8746 | 862 Columbia Dr, Decatur, GA 30030

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Decatur’s Got Style

September 2025 PUBLISHER

Decatur style isn’t defined by fleeting trends; it’s defined by authentic people and their local approach to bettering our world and strengthening our community — with flair and personality, of course. It’s a garden with form and function. A home with vibrancy and memory. A derby where homemade vehicles become artistic statements on wheels. A rescued approach to rescuing. In our September pages, we step into the wonders and work of Abundance Landscapes + Gardens, where Sarah Jackson and Daniel Mobley design living, breathing landscapes that feed both body and soul. These backyard ecosystems serve a purpose with native plants, edible gardens, and the opportunity for both ecological education and the ritual of connecting with the land. Inside, we’re invited to a home designed by Trish Roe of The Georgian Goose Interiors, where “approachable luxury” means a space layered in story, culture, and character. Trish doesn’t just design spaces, she creates environments that people fall (and stay) in love with. Bold, moody, and meaningful, her work is a celebration of color, texture, and a life fully lived. In a few weeks, the Madison Avenue Derby returns. Equal parts personality, engineering, and whimsicality on wheels, the annual Oakhurst event is proof that Decatur takes expressive style and giving back seriously. Second Life is all about second chances; not just for your gently loved pieces, but in rescuing homeless pets. The beloved Avondale Estates upscale thrift store has become a local favorite not just for its curated treasures but for its mission. As they approach their 15th anniversary, their message is clear: before you toss that outgrown outfit or gently used furniture, consider the impact it could make. Decatur’s style is composed of the people who live here, care for this place, and continue to pour love into it, and as we undergo a major (style) transformation on the Decatur Square, remember to support our local businesses. Your continued support matters. Live beautifully,

Caroline Ficken | caroline.ficken@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Natalie Fox | natalie.fox@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N M AN AG E R

Brooke Felder | brooke.felder@citylifestyle.com P U B L I S H E R AS S I STAN T

Grace Boudreau | grace.boudreau@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Josh Cornwall, LaTasha Brown, Brandon Malcolm C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Jenna Shea Photojournalism, Elizabeth Granger, Monica Conlin Photography, Connelly Crowe

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

CAROLINE FICKEN, PUBLISHER @ D E C AT U R C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Decatur City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Decatur area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Decatur City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Helping you tell the story of your home.

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inside the issue SE PT EMBER 2 0 2 5 | ST Y L E

12 20 Featured

20 28 34 8

Stylistic and Sustainable Landscapes

Abundance Landscapes + Gardens crafts intentionally designed spaces made to sustain.

When More is More

Trish Roe brings patterns, purpose, and personality to a newlywed couple’s first home.

Keep On Rolling

Decatur’s beloved soapbox race drives fun and support for local kids.

Thrifting for a Cause

Second Life gives hope to homeless pets.

28 On the Cover

Departments

Photography: Jenna Shea Photojournalism

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Outdoor Living HOME + DESIGN

Artist’s Palette HOME + DESIGN

Inspired By STYLE + BEAUTY

Giving Back STYLE + BEAUTY

Events

The Scott Brothers

Your Go-To Place for Special Moments. Big and Small. In 2007, brothers John-Thomas and Christopher Scott began plans for a desperately-needed Decatur steakhouse. Parker’s on Ponce, named after John-Thomas’ daughter, opened its doors in November of 2008, and the first Decatur Steakhouse was born. Parker’s on Ponce is located in historic Decatur, Georgia, just four miles east of downtown Atlanta. Reach out to us today to learn about our VIP signup program, upcoming special offers, and about options to enjoy our restaurant as a top-notch event venue. I

parkersonponce.com | 404-924-2230 116 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030

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SEPTEMBER 2025

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Placita Latina’s 5th Anniversary

Decatur Book Festival's 20th Anniversary

The Peaceful Place launches PATH

Placita Latina, Decatur’s vibrant celebration of Latinx Heritage Month, celebrates its 5th anniversary. The month-long celebration features Salsa on the Square, dance lessons, live bands, authentic Latin food, artisan vendors, and fireworks of culture beneath the stars. Explore Latinx art at juried exhibitions, join the lively Day of the Dead “Haints & Saints” parade, and enjoy pop‑up events across Decatur—free and open to the community. Learn more at www.placitalatinaga.org

The Decatur Book Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary with "Kidnote" Angie Thomas and Keynote Saeed Jones on October 3, 2025. Thomas returns with her sequel to Nic Blake and the Remarkables, while Jones presents The People’s Project, a liberatory anthology. Free and open to the public, the festival features author talks, book signings, and more. Learn more at decaturbookfestival.com

Starting September 4, The Peaceful Place launches PATH, a monthly membership offering approachable, sustainable, holistic health. Members receive guided practices, resources, and monthly highlights featuring meditation, mindful movement, creative reflection, nutrition, and more. Rooted in mind-body connection and nature, the PATH supports intentional living every step of the way. Decatur City Lifestyle readers enjoy 20% off their first year with code DCL20. Learn more at thepeacefulplacellc. com/pricing-plans/list

Photography by Decatur Book Festival

Photography by Placita Latina

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S T Y L I S T IC A ND S U S TA IN A B L E

LANDSCAPES 12

O UT D OOR LIV IN G | HO ME + D E SIGN

ABUNDANCE LANDSCAPES + GARDENS CRAFTS INTENTIONALLY DESIGNED SPACES MADE TO SUSTAIN. ARTICLE BY NATALIE FOX | PHOTOGRAPHY Sarah Jackson and Daniel Mobley’s backyard is a study in contrasts, with overflowing garden beds framing a vintage-style stone patio, where ripe fruits and vibrant vegetables abound. A woven basket is utilized to pick their nightly salad for dinner. Chickens stroll the grounds while, every so often, bees will

BY JENNA SHEA PHOTOJOURNALISM

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buzz overhead, pollinating the opulent flowers and processing the purest of honey. It’s an oasis in Decatur, drawing guests to the backyard and providing a serene haven to connect with nature’s awe-inspiring cycles. Bounty is an understatement, and it's clear why Abundance Landscapes + Gardens is the perfect name for their business, which is run with absolute reverence for the land. In the edible, ecological realm, Abundance Landscapes + Gardens provides thoughtfully designed landscapes created with peak functionality, sustainability, and beautiful aesthetics in mind. By working with native plants and the

O UT D OOR LIV IN G | HO ME + D E SIGN

native environment, they educate every client on how to provide for the ecosystem most effectively. Rebalancing our relationship with the land while reconnecting to the majesty of nature accomplishes quite a lot; firstly, it brings a sense of mindful presence to every single day and season. Secondly, it has a positive impact on our local ecosystem, from sustainable water usage to supporting pollinators. And lastly, it provides high-level nourishment for ourselves, our families, and our communities. Sarah and Daniel’s naturalistic and food-forward design style works hard to increase native biodiversity and enhance

“IT’S OUR ART, BUT IT MOVES THROUGH TIME AND SPACE, SO IT’S CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.” one’s daily relationship with the Earth. The kitchen gardens they create recognize food as the true gateway to a symbiotic relationship with nature. As we put our effort into the land, it is repaid in the most nutritious produce one can consume. Gardening offers the opportunity for daily practices of joy and a chance to connect with others as well. It is exciting to give what you’ve grown with your community. “One of my favorite things about growing food is being able to share it with other people,” Daniel shares, and Sarah quickly agrees, adding, “Our mission is trying to facilitate this connection with Earth and each other.”

In every landscape design they pitch, health, joy, and connection are at the heart. The plant palettes are artful yet naturalistic, housed in intentionally designed spaces crafted with approachability, encouraging people to spend time in nature. Sarah and Daniel both light up when asked about their meadows, an offering they’ve meticulously honed over the past five years, and are constantly evolving. This creative yet ecologically minded process features hundreds of different species with varying flowering timelines, making this art form stylistically minded and scientifically complex. By mixing native plants with

environmentally beneficial perennial flowering plants and shrubs, the beauty of the natural world is demonstrated while creating a space for core memories to form. Variety is shaped through plant heights, colors, and textures, crafting painting-like sanctuaries in the middle of the city. This challenge is not taken on by conventional landscaping companies. The extra effort and difficulty sourcing plants make this a less easy, though much more fulfilling, process. The naturalistic design flows to their hardscapes as well, utilizing natural stones and boulders for retaining walls and paths, with permeable patios built to utilize rainfall as a resource. These structures balance the wild look of native plants and are integrated into the gardens as an invitation to spend time in the landscape. Gathering, entertaining, and hosting surrounded by blossoming flowers and ripening produce further integrates daily living with the land. This style of landscaping, often referred to as “edible landscaping” or “ecological landscaping,” is growing in popularity and importance. It is a movement that takes action in the face of climate change by positively contributing to the local ecosystem and our quality of life, physically, emotionally, and socially. Find rebalancing, reconnection, and awe-inspiring reverence for the natural world with the help of Abundance Landscapes + Gardens.

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O UT D OOR LIV IN G | HO ME + D E SIGN

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WHEN MORE IS MORE ARTICLE BY LATASHA BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIZABETH GRANGER

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | HO ME + D E SIGN

Trish Roe brings patterns, purpose, and personality to a newlywed couple’s first home.

In a world full of neutral tones and white walls, there’s Trish Roe, the owner and creative mind behind The Georgian Goose Interiors, who’s committed to moody palettes, layered prints, and intentional decor. For Trish, design is personal. In this featured project, Trish brings her signature “approachable luxury” concept to a newlywed couple’s Atlanta home, creating a space that’s bold, original, and deeply reflective of their Southeast Asian culture and the life they’re building together. Trish’s well-traveled clients had a vision. They wanted something distinctive. Drawn to boutique hotels and their refined retreat aesthetics, the couple desired a home that felt intimate and functional. While Trish describes herself as a maximalist, her mastery lies in duality—it’s layered, expressive, and filled with personality, yet always grounded with intention. It’s “more,” but it’s meaningful. The duality of boldness and warmth is evident throughout the home. A tropical-inspired vibrancy fills the rooms, while layered textures and rich prints, deliberately sourced from women-owned and boutique textile makers, carry seamlessly CONTINUED >

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throughout the house. In the entryway, guests are welcomed by luscious, jungle-inspired wallpaper that climbs alongside the staircase and adds depth to the space and instantly sparks conversation. Then there’s the sky-blue wallpaper in the powder room that at first glance appears to be a traditional chinoiserie style, but reveals itself as an underwater sea world with narrow etchings of fish, lobster, and seahorses, prefacing the beautiful pool steps away. The imperfect mirror and an aged rug that accompany the delicate printed walls add an edge that feels intriguing, while the chunky wood counter anchors the space with solidity. In the couple’s shared office space, Trish opted for an oversized dining table in place of conventional desks to facilitate connectivity. The ceiling, treated as a fifth wall, is wrapped in a dreamy blue printed wallpaper that gives layered character and cohesion to the room with the coordinating fabric paired on the woven window treatments. The contrasting terracotta wall hue is warm and distinct, intentionally blurring the lines between work and play, and Trish wouldn’t have it any other way. The home, originally custom-built for its previous owners, came with oversized ceiling fans with black cords, silver pendant lights, and gray paint. “It just didn’t feel like a room you’d want to fall asleep in,” Trish recalls as she describes the initial condition of the primary bedroom. To expand the space and give additional dimension, she replaced the stern lighting with sculptural fixtures, a brighter palette, and a plush, oversized rug. To soften the large room, she added lush drapery panels, palmprinted textiles, and a statement canopy bed. Throughout the house, the couple’s collections of perfume bottles, law books, and travel treasures are showcased as art pieces for both display and function. As Trish puts it, “It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s personal. You should love what surrounds you —it sets the tone for how you start and end the day.” This home is more than a well-styled space. With Trish’s thoughtful eye, this home feels like what every home should: personal, lived-in, and loved. A space not saved for later, but fully and beautifully lived in now. “Don’t wait,” Trish says. “Paint the wall. Wear the outfit. Drink the good wine. Live beautifully—now.”

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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | HO ME + D E SIGN

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KEEP ON

Rolling

I NSP IR E D BY | STYL E + B E AU T Y

DECATUR’S BELOVED SOAPBOX RACE DRIVES FUN AND SUPPORT FOR LOCAL KIDS.

ARTICLE BY JOSH CORNWALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA CONLIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Gravity does the driving at the Madison Ave Derby, and for one day each fall, a quiet Oakhurst street transforms into the most joyful racetrack in Decatur. There’s no roaring engine or smell of exhaust here, just the whir of wheels, bursts of laughter, and the occasional cheer as a handmade soapbox car barrels downhill toward the finish. Now in its 14th year, the Madison Ave Derby has become a beloved neighborhood tradition, drawing families, friends, and spectators from across the city. What started as a grassroots, all-ages event has evolved into a community celebration centered squarely on kids and their creativity. “It’s several hours where kids are having fun and everybody else is just letting them,” said co-organizer Jamie Burnett. “It’s like a race just for kids — there’s nothing else like it.” This year, the Derby’s proceeds will benefit the Decatur Education Foundation’s “Lighten the Load” programs, which provide direct support to students in need. Organizers Deanna Sutandi and Burnett said keeping the focus on children — both as participants and as the recipients of the event’s fundraising — is core to the Derby’s identity. “One of the things that’s been part of the fabric of the Derby is having the money go to things that are related to kids and the kids in the neighborhood,” Sutandi said. “We’ve supported food insecurity and other family-focused causes, but this year feels like we came back to our roots — picking something kid-focused and program-based.” That commitment shows up in the details. The Derby track runs right down Madison Avenue. For a few magical hours, it’s closed off to everything but soapbox cars — often decorated to look like spaceships, animals, or even giant hot dogs. Around 70 kids race each year, some competing for speed and trophies, while others are just happy to cruise at a slower pace in their custom-built creations. “Some families have speed goals,” Sutandi said with a laugh. “Our family has slow goals — like, let’s make this go not fast at all.”

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The day itself is equal parts competition and block party. Neighbors set up chairs and coolers, kids dart between races, and volunteers keep things running smoothly. It’s a family-centric event through and through, drawing a different crowd than Decatur’s larger festivals. “There’s no money in the Derby,” Burnett said. “Nobody’s doing it for a profit. We’re not raising money for capital gains — we’re doing it for the community. When you do things like that, it just creates positive vibes.” For both Sutandi and Burnett, the joy of the day makes the months of planning worth it. “I find myself just smiling the entire day,” Sutandi said. “It’s exhausting work, especially that week before, but every time I think, ‘This really is so magical. This really is the best day.” Burnett first experienced the Derby in 2019, shortly after moving to Madison Avenue. “I didn’t even know it existed until October came around and I saw it happening,” he said. “I was like, this is amazing. I want to do this with the kids.” When the event’s original organizers stepped away, Burnett stepped in to help keep it alive. Today, the Derby is sustained by a small but dedicated group of neighbors, including Sutandi and Burnett. “You can’t do this without the whole street liking it,” Burnett said. “Most people with families love it. This is a destination for

I NSP IR E D BY | STYL E + B E AU T Y

them. And you see people from all over coming to watch.” The behind-the-scenes work is substantial — everything from securing permits to wrangling volunteers to managing registration lines. Over the years, the team has streamlined the attendee experience; however, the reality of a volunteer-run event means that some ideas simply have to wait. “If we had the same execution energy as our idea energy, we’d be unstoppable,” Burnett joked. “But everything costs time and effort.” Even so, the Derby’s magic is undeniable, and that’s what keeps people — participants and spectators alike — coming back year after year. “I hope people leave thinking, ‘That was so fun, I’m putting it on my calendar now for next year,’” Sutandi said. “It’s all about community feels. It’s the epitome of that.” Burnett agrees, calling it a “formative family experience” for kids who get to participate in the race. “They’re part of something,” he said. “Whether they’re competing for a trophy or just cruising, it’s something they’ll remember forever.” In a city with plenty of events, the Madison Ave Derby stands out for its focus on pure, unadulterated fun. And when gravity’s in charge, you never know exactly how a race will end, but you can count on (almost) everyone crossing the finish line with a smile.

Beauty (R)eImagined. Beauty (R)eAlized. DECATUR ’S PREMIER MED SPA Mike Kelleher 404-689-1223 | revolutionbymka.com 104 Sycamore Pl, Decatur, GA | v @revolutiondecatur

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For Decatur Parents, Professionals, and People on the Go! Our self-serve Dry Cleaning Kiosk in Downtown Decatur is open daily from 6:30am to 10:00pm, including holidays, so you can drop off or pick up on your time. Need help? Our friendly attendant is available 11am – 5pm Monday through Friday and 1pm – 4pm on Saturdays. Mention Decatur City Lifestyle Magazine for 25% off your first order!

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Thrifting for a Cause

SECOND LIFE GIVES HOPE TO HOMELESS PETS. ARTICLE BY TANYA MAHROUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONNELLY CROWE

G IV IN G BAC K | STYL E + BE AU T Y

There’s a great thrill to thrifting. The hunt for the perfect item, the anticipation building as you stroll the aisles, the rush when the hidden gem emerges from a corner of the store. It’s a beloved experience by many, and at Second Life, an upscale thrift store in Avondale Estates, thrifting takes on a special cause – to give homeless pets a second chance at life (and love). “We offer consignment quality shopping at thrift store prices and our proceeds benefit animal charities,” explains Tanya Mahrous, who, alongside her husband Toby Tobias, co-founded the sprawling storefront on North Clarendon. Inspired by their rescued Dalmatian, Lucky, who was deemed “unadoptable” and days away from euthanasia, the couple opened Second Life with the mission of making a difference for rescue animals like him. Don’t write off Second Life as a small local business making the occasional donation to look altruistic- their contributions are making a real difference. “We have donated over $2.7 million in grants to more than 90 animal charities in the Atlanta area and Georgia since opening our doors in 2011. We are excited to

celebrate our 15th anniversary in January and are on track to achieve the $3 million milestone early next year,” Toby explains. “We provide grants to numerous organizations because there are so many areas of need when it comes to helping animals,” says Tanya. Pet adoption is a big focus, but fostering, outreach, and education are also very important in reducing pet overpopulation, while spay/neuter efforts allow people to be a part of the solution in their communities. “Customers often tell us this is their happy place,” reflects Tanya, “they love shopping here and finding unique items, and they love helping animals too.” Tanya and Toby are quick to point out that their dedicated team is the reason for Second Life’s success. “Although Second Life was our idea, our amazing team is the reason many supporters tell us Second Life is their favorite store,” explains Toby. Want to help? Donate gently used items, volunteer your time, or simply shop. Every purchase helps give homeless pets a second chance at life. Lucky’s legacy lives on in all they do. Animals do change lives; Lucky changed theirs.

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“Customers often tell us this i s t h e i r h a p p y p l a c e . T h e y l o ve shopping here and f inding u n i q u e i t e m s , a n d t h e y l o ve h e l p i n g a n i m a l s t o o .”

G IV IN G BAC K | STYL E + BE AU T Y

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SEPTEMBER 2025

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S T U E S DAYS

Truckin’ Tuesdays Legacy Park | 5:00 PM Nothing brings people together like street food! Grab your crew, blankets, and appetites for Truckin’ Tuesdays at Legacy Park. Every Tuesday in September, the area’s best food trucks serve up delicious eats in Decatur’s biggest green space. Relax, spread out, and let the kids run free—pets (on leashes) are welcome too! T H U RS DAYS

Oakhurst Jazz Nights The Solarium | 7:00 PM Jazz lovers, head to Oakhurst on Thursday evenings in September! Picnic at sunset outside the Solarium and enjoy a free outdoor concert on the lawn from 7-9 pm. Concerts are free and open to the public. Remember to bring a blanket -- no high-back chairs! SE PT E M BE R 7 T H

CompassionCon 10 Year Anniversary Celebration The Solarium | 3:30 PM You're invited to celebrate 10 years of Compassionate Atlanta! Join us for an afternoon of champagne, tea, desserts, and meaningful connection as we honor a decade of impact and community. Buy tickets at compassionateatl.org/10th-birthday-ticket. SE PT E M BE R 1 3T H & 1 4 TH

Woodlands Garden Fall Plant Sale Woodlands Garden, 932 Scott Blvd Woodlands Garden’s Fall Plant Sale returns Sept. 13–14, featuring native plants, expert advice, and a curated selection for all skill levels. Shop to support this beloved Decatur greenspace! Reserve a shopping slot at woodlandsgarden.org; walk-ins welcome both afternoons. All proceeds support the preservation of the Garden. SE PT E M BE R 2 0 T H

Placita Latina Celebrates its 5th Anniversary Downtown Decatur Square | 4:00 PM Placita Latina, Decatur’s vibrant celebration of Latinx Heritage Month, celebrates its 5th anniversary. The month-long celebration festivities come alive with a lineup of “mini-events,” including Salsa on the Square featuring dance lessons, live bands, authentic Latin food, artisan vendors, and fireworks of culture beneath the stars. Free and open to the community! Get all the details at placitalatinaga.org O C TOBE R 1 ST

Not Your Mother’s Menopause Talk The Book Bird Avondale Estates | 6:00 PM Join Dr. Taniqua Miller (Revival Telemedicine), Amy Robbins (Amy Robbins Counseling), Beth Kemper (Kemper Pelvic Physio), and Karen Riggs (Riggs Nutrition) for an honest, engaging evening on the physical, mental, hormonal, and nutritional shifts of midlife. Doors open 6:00 pm; panel begins 6:30 pm. Free with registration: tinyurl.com/DCLevent101

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