East Cobb, GA October 2023

What'sDinner?For

*Showroom by Appointment*

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Hello Early Fall

Welcome fall!

With the change in season comes the change of what we crave, fun travel, festive seasonal events, giving back and yes comfort food. October is our most delectable issue of the year, filled with some of our favorite dishes and beverages.

The smells of fall evoke memories of sitting in my mom’s kitchen. The aroma of cinnamon, apple, pumpkin, chili and hearty soups bringing me back to her table. There is definitely an art to creating a flavorful dish that satisfies our taste buds and evokes warm memories. The aroma of certain spices and foods can truly remind us of our childhood, which can be incredibly powerful and comforting. For me, the kitchen is definitely the "heart of the home".

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Jennifer Zielinski,  the owner of New York Butcher Shoppe, and learned about their unique offerings and fun fall menu - so get your tastebuds ready, you are in for a treat!

You'll read about recipes on favorite non-alcoholic spirits and mocktails to try at home, whether just for your family or entertaining, as well as talented chefs around town.

As we honor Breast Cancer Awareness month, we share the work of many who bring awareness and support to this important cause.

Our home is a place of warmth and the food we love brings us together. Whether sharing a meal with loved ones in a kitchen designed just for your family's lifestyle or enjoying a night out on the town, the time spent while enjoying palette-plashing experiences is invaluable. As always, thanks for reading, and we’ll see you around town!

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Lisa Thibault | Lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Abby Ramsey | abby.ramsey@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Rei Kaiser

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Karyn Slovin | karyn.Slovin@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Denise James, Lisa Thompson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Abby Ramsey

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

Moving Day Atlanta Saturday, October 21, 2023

Saturday, October 1, the community is joining forces to honor loved ones with Parkinson’s disease, raise awareness and support the life-changing work of the Parkinson’s Foundation. Whether you take part on a team or join as an individual, move with thousands of supporters who share a common goal to fight Parkinson’s disease. Kennesaw State University - Marietta Campus. Visit: movingdaywalk.org/event/moving-day-atlanta/ aschultz@parkinson.org

Honest-1 Auto Care Supports Breast Cancer Awareness

In October, Honest-1 Auto Care will donate $1 to Breast Cancer Research Foundation for every preventative maintenance service performed. Located in East Cobb and Johns Creek, Honest-1 is a proven auto repair and maintenance service company. Using a digital inspection process, clients receive a digital health report of their vehicle. Owner Butch Carter has an unwavering commitment to community and economic growth of the cities he and his team serve. Honest1eastcobb.com | 770-809-6253

2023 Servant's Heart Award

The East Cobb Civitan Club presented 2023 Civitan International ServantHeart Award toChris Brand. Since 2003, Brand has served as President and CEO of Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC). Chris pictured with Lou Alvarado, Board Chairman of FODAC, which provides thousands of disabled individuals with improved mobility. Brand has made a great impact during his tenure by adding opportunities to increase the distribution of durable medical goods in Cobb and surrounding communities.

Community

Marietta Mayor Tumlin and Councilman Johnny Walker proclaim September as Childhood Cancer Awareness month in honor of our youngest and most

courageous citizens. The Mighty Milly Foundation shines gold by bringing community together to create awareness, funding, resources and research to fight childhood cancer. The Mariettabased Foundation was founded by Nick and Claire Mracek in honor of their beautiful daughter Millie who lost her battle to cancer. To learn more visit mightymillie.org

Fall Into Fun - Cobb County is Atlanta's Sweetest Spot

Discover Fall happenings that make Cobb the sweetest spot in Atlanta. From corn mazes, pumpkin picking, hayrides and super fun seasonal attractions, you’ll never run out of things to do! Enjoy Scarecrows in Cobb, fun times at Sleepy Hollow Farm, Root House Museum Victorian era funeral flashlight tours, Marietta Harvest Fest, and Acworth and Marietta city ghost tours. info@ travelcobb.org

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/EastCobb

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Join the Fight

FOODS AND PHILANTHROPIES

FIGHTING BREAST CANCER

With October comes a host of seasonal sightings. But amid the pumpkins, leaves and scarecrows, October conjures another often overlooked sight on shop windows, bumper stickers, t-shirts and more: the pink ribbon. We all know the ribbon holds a powerful message for those impacted by breast cancer, but the rest of us may need reminding of its significance.

In 1985, the American Cancer Society dedicated the month of October to breast cancer awareness to encourage women across the country to get mammograms, the most effective tool against breast cancer to date. The good news is there are organizations in East Cobb keeping that sentiment alive today, one being Cobb EMC’s Pink Power initiative.

“The Pink Power initiative is a lighthearted way to remind everyone about a serious issue,” said Kristen Delaney, Vice President of Marketing at Cobb EMC. “We hope that when people see our flamingos, they remember to pick up the phone and make that appointment. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and 85% of them will not have a family history of breast cancer. Get checked. This is too important. Early detection is key.”

Show your Support:

On average, one woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 14 seconds, making it the leading cause of cancer in women, and as of 2020, the most common cancer worldwide. Our need for more research and new treatments is eminent.

While these numbers are alarming, breast cancer cases have been steadily decreasing for over two decades, so we

know our efforts are effective. As we continue the fight, there are a host of charities and nonprofits you can support this month.

1. National Breast Cancer Foundation

2. Susan G. Komen Foundation

3. BreastCancer.org

4. Young Survival Coalition

5. Breast Cancer Research Foundation

6. American Cancer Society

7. The DONNA Foundation

8. Living Beyond Breast Cancer

THE LINK BETWEEN CANCER AND NUTRITION

Whether you or a loved one is currently fighting cancer, you’ve had cancer, or you simply want to make every effort to lower your risk of getting cancer, nutrition is one of the biggest natural weapons we have. According to osfhealthcare.org and sarahcannon. com, the following tips play a major role in cancer recovery and prevention.

1. Follow a plant-based diet if you can. It’s been found that fruits, leafy greens, legumes, nuts and seeds actively fight cancer. Phytochemicals, found in plants, are anti-inflammatory and disrupt cancer formation. Fiber, found in all of these foods, is linked to lower rates of breast cancer specifically.

2. Watch your protein intake, especially if you follow a plant-based diet. Protein is key to strengthening your body to withstand chemotherapy treatments and fight cancer. While there are plenty of plant-based proteins, working them into a diet can take a little intentionality. Lentils, nuts, seeds and Greek yogurt are all great options.

If you aren’t eating plant-based, you’ll have a much wider variety of protein to choose from, but poultry, fish and eggs (in addition to plant-based proteins) are some of the cleanest, making them ideal for fighting cancer.

3 . Listen to your body when it comes to sugar. We’ve all heard it said that sugar feeds cancer cells, and while it’s true to an extent, our bodies still rely on natural sugars to power healthy cells. So while sugar intake should be limited, natural sugars, like those found in fruits and whole grains, will always be part of a healthy diet.

Not to mention, chemotherapy can cause cancer patients to lose their appetite, and eating enough is necessary to keep fighting. Sugars are often easier on the stomach, so if it comes down to carbs or nothing, choose carbs!

*Remember, only you and your doctor know your medical situation. Make sure to talk with them before making any drastic changes to your diet.

Who should get checked? At age 40, women should start talking with their doctor about their risk of breast cancer and need for screening. By age 50, all women should get screened every one to two years.

SCOTLAND...LACED WITH ADVENTURE AND PALETTEPLEASING EXPERIENCES

One for the books - a memorable experience

Scotland conjures up many images, both mystical and magical. It is a country of stunning beauty, a tragic but storied history (think Mary Queen of Scots) and of course, the setting of everyone’s favorite time travel romance series, Outlander!

But one thought that did not cross my mind was the adventuresome and palette-pleasing culinary scene I would encounter.

On my recent trip to Scotland, I was surprised to find far more than the haggis, scones and black pudding that initially come to mind. As it turns out, Scotland

is home to 12 Michelin Star restaurants, five in Edinburgh alone. Plus, as any visitor to this captivating country knows, Scotch whiskey is the national drink. The distilleries are worthy of their own story, and we’ll get to that. But first, a few of my favorite restaurants:

The Witchery at the base of Edinburgh Castle Hill offered a unique and magical dining experience that complemented its Michelin Star rating. Located in a 16th-century merchant’s house, The Witcher creates a sense of time travel, transporting diners to a bygone era. The 600-bin wine cellar receives the AA Wine Award, while the menu offers an array of mouthwatering delights from Aged Scotch Beef Tartare and Beef Wellington to Lobster Thermidor.

If you like it enough to stay awhile, no worries! The Witchery offers nine themed rooms for lodging. It’s a true romantic getaway in the heart of the wonderfully intriguing Edinburgh.

A more adventurous culinary experience awaits in a visit to one of Scotland’s ubiquitous pubs or taverns. One of my favorites was Edinburgh’s Old Tollbooth Tavern. Part of the original Canongate Tollbooth built in 1591, it once collected tolls from travelers entering the burgh. Today, it offers live music and a delightful, Scottish tasting platter overflowing with fish and chips, wild mushrooms, smoked salmon and haggis croquettes with whisky cream sauce.

Another favorite, Balmoral Arms, offers a cozy respite in the village of Ballater. The location is just seven miles from Balmoral

Castle, the Highlands home of the British Royal Family.

Farther north into the Highlands is the oldest golf course in the world, St. Andrews, and more fine dining. The Seafood Ristorante overlooks the Old Course and the North Atlantic Sea simultaneously. It is quite the experience: enjoying a glass of wine and a plate of Shetland Cod or Orkney Scallops while watching the waves crash against the historic course through floor-to-ceiling windows. The historic Jigger Inn overlooks the famous green, too, if you’re in for a rowdier time.

I was surprised again at the Bunchrew House in Inverness. Built in the 1600s, this manor promises to be a favorite of Outlander fans. With ties to the Frase-Mackenzie clans, the beautiful dwelling maintains an oldworld charm and, if you believe everything you hear, a few friendly ghosts as well. It’s notorious as one of the most haunted hotels in Scotland.

But I was there for the 2 AA Rosette restaurant and its mesmerizing views overlooking the Beauty Firth. I enjoyed a lamb dinner with mushroom, truffle, parmesan and lemon risotto. I also had to partake in the impressive wine list!

Speaking of drinks, what would a visit to Scotland be without a sip of Scotch whisky? Well, not a trip worth taking!

The distilleries of Scotland are too numerous to list, but a few have the distinction of offering both the native spirit and a wonderful dining experience. Macallan’s restaurant

“It’s a true romantic getaway in the heart of the wonderfully intriguing Edinburgh.”

is inspired by the three-star Michelin-rated El Celler de Can Roca in Spain. Glenturret, Scotland’s oldest working distillery, boasts the first MichelinStarred restaurant attached to a distillery, Lalique.

The Glenmorangie House, attached to its namesake distillery, offers whisky tastings, delightful cuisine and lodging. The House holds the prestigious Michelin Hotel Guide’s single “Red House” symbol, one of only nine in Scotland, and two Red Rosettes for its food.

On the more fun side, some distilleries, such as the Isle of Raasay, pair their Scotch tasting with chocolate.

And finally, a visit to any part of the UK requires a cup of tea! I discovered the perfect spot at Clarinda’s Tea Room in Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Quaint and snug, it provides the perfect ending to an afternoon of sightseeing in one of Europe’s most exciting and stunning cities.

If you’re considering a culinary tour, it’s time to give Scotland a second thought. The cuisine is as magical as the land itself!

A CHEF’S POINT OF VIEW

LOCAL CHEF’S SHARE THEIR FAVORITE KNIVES

Chef Liv Hurst

Cattle Shed

Chef Olivia Hurst, a recent winner on Food Network’s Chopped, has worked at several of Atlanta’s top restaurants including Buckhead Life Restaurant Group’s Atlanta Fish Market and Kyma. While at Kyma, the fine-dining Greek restaurant was nominated for several James Beard awards. A self-taught modern Southern chef with a worldly view, Hurst hopes to bring people together by creating and maintaining delicious, interesting dishes such as unique charcuterie boards, inspiring small plates and specialty cut steaks that pair well with the eatery’s list of nearly 200 wines.

Miyabi Birchwood Nakiri Knife, 6 1/2”. It takes more than 100 steps and 42 days to make one knife worthy of the MIYABI brand. Each authentic knife is crafted true to Japanese tradition by skilled artisans and forged from premium steels. I like this knife because the thin light handle makes it easy to hold, and maneuver when doing detailed knife cuts like julienned vegetables. The balanced weight of the blade makes this knife perfect for chopping onions.  cattleshedwinebar.com

Chef Sam Adams

The Henckels Classic 8" Chef's Knife is Chef Sam's favorite blade. It boasts a precision, fine-edge blade that is honed for long-lasting sharpness. Henckels has been crafting knives since 1895 and this Spanishmade kitchen workhorse is up for almost any task, strengthened by high-quality German stainless steel. Chef Sam had this go-to knife lifted from his knife kit but found he could make magic from almost any blade within his reach. Here, he holds a favorite knife by Forschner. The commercial quality knives are made in Switzerland by Victorinox.    northendkitchen.com

Oscar Galan Chicago’s Restaurant

With over 25 years of experience, Managing Partner and Executive Chef Galan has been creating memorable culinary experiences. “I typically opt for a knife from Seido’s collection of chef knives, especially when preparing cuts of meat like steaks, fish and prime rib. I love that Seido Knives are fully family-owned and operated. The Japanese craftsmanship used in their style and display has been passed down for generations.

“Growing up in a Colombian family instilled my love of authentic cooking

from a young age. When I came to the US, I really started pursuing my dream, refining my cooking skills and earning experience in fine dining and steakhouses. When it comes to the cooking I do at Chicago’s, I’d have to choose either the bone-in Cowboy Ribeye or our Tomahawk Steak as my go-to. Looking forward, I hope to keep chasing my dreams while running a traditional steakhouse with a flare and maybe moving on to more locations. chicagosrestaurant.com

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THE RIGHT CHOICE

- NOT

TYPICAL BUTCHER SHOP

YOUR

Purveyors of premium cuts of fresh meats coupled with elegant restaurant and extensive wine list

ARTICLE BY CATHY JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN CURLING

I wouldn’t consider myself a meat aficionado. As a young adult, I haven’t yet discovered the art of cooking meats. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve done it, but I’m much more akin to tossing a Kroger chicken breast into the air fryer than tackling the science experiment of mixing marinades and sprinkling seasonings in hopes of a perfectly-seared slab of meat.

All that to say, I wasn’t expecting to be wooed when I stumbled into New York Butcher Shoppe looking for a bite to eat, but I was sorely mistaken. I was greeted by a host of smiling faces, mouthwatering aromas and counters brimming with marbled meats of all sizes, cuts and flavors.

Jennifer Zielinski, co-founder of the East Cobb franchise, walked me through the shop setup. The front half functions as a typical butcher shop with a vast meat selection. The back half contains an elegant restaurant and wine bar concept, something only select locations offer.

As many stories begin these days, Jennifer and her partner, Pete Kaufman, used the pandemic as an opportunity to start making strides towards opening their own butcher shop. With over 35 years in the industry and a 25-year friendship, the pair landed on the New York Butcher Shoppe franchise because of the unique restaurant concept which would allow them to utilize their restauranteur backgrounds.

The shop sells all Certified Angus Beef, which they work to source as locally as possible, in addition to a variety of unique groceries from across the country. All of their meats are freshly cut, smoked and prepared in-house daily. And if you’re unsure what to get, Jennifer recommends taking advantage of the shop’s hard-tofind cuts like Tri-Tip, Wagyu steaks and Picanha, her personal favorite.

As for the restaurant, the menu is filled with tasty options: charcuterie, sandwiches, steak flights and stuffed mushrooms to name a few. But don’t order food without something to sip on. With three wine flights and an ever-changing wine menu from around the world, it takes more than a few glasses to try them all. If you find your tastebuds meld with the thoughtfully curated selection, you can always join the Wine Club for new wine and a delicious dinner every month.

If your cooking skills are as unrefined as mine (or just short on time), you’ll be delighted to learn about the shop’s to-go options, made fresh daily. They’re a perfect way to bring home a little indulgence without hassle. Those who enjoy playing home chef can pick up oven-ready meals anytime, but if convenience is priority, take advantage of their weekly hot meal deals. With whole Roasted Chicken, Baby Back Ribs and Prime Rib in the lineup, these fixings are a step above.

Unique offerings like these and a devotion to fresh ingredients are why New York Butcher Shoppe delivers quality and convenience. With franchise rights in Cherokee and a part of Fulton County, it’s no surprise Jennifer and Pete have high hopes for the expansion across metro Atlanta and North Georgia.

Dixie’s Chicken Roll Ups

With so much butcher experience, Jennifer has acquired a few favorite ways to prepare a variety of cuts of meat. This one is specifically for poultry, and comes from ResQue Rubs, a line of rubs and seasonings made to elevate the flavor of any food you can dream up. Not only are ResQue Rubs used at New York Butcher Shoppe, but they are based in Georgia and donate a portion of profits to Fur Kids, an animal rescue foundation.

So grab a ResCue Rub of your choice (or a similar meat rub), fire up the smoker and get ready for a mouthwatering stuffed chicken dinner!

RECIPE

DIXIE’S CHICKEN ROLL UPS

INGREDIENTS

• 2-4 Chicken breasts pounded thin

• A package of sliced Prosciutto

• A package of sliced cheese

• 1 small red onion sliced thin

• 2 avocados sliced thin

• Butcher twine

• Meat Thermometer

• 2-4 tbsp Dixie’s All-Purpose Rub

DIRECTIONS

1. Pound chicken breasts out thin. Thinly slice the onion and avocados. Cut piece of twine for each chicken breast.

2. Prep smoker to 325-350 degrees.

3. Lay chicken breasts out flat, season both sides with Dixie’s All Purpose Rub.

4. Place slice of prosciutto, cheese, onions and avocados on top. Roll up chicken breasts.

5. Gently tie one end of the roll-up tight enough to hold in place. Tie the other end tight enough to hold the roll up together without pushing the onions and avocados out. Then tighten the first tie.

6. Put roll-ups on smoker and let cook for 45 minutes to an hour. Ensure chicken reaches temperature of 165 degrees in the middle of the roll-up. Slice and drizzle with favorite sauce.

7. Enjoy!

Located in the Avenue East Cobb, the New York Butcher Shoppe and Wine Bar is a premium destination for food lovers. Offering Certified Angus Beef, fresh seafood, specialty groceries, prepared foods and wine bar. Enjoy lunch and dinner accompanied by a selection of draft beers and unique wines.

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LOOKING SHARP

Years ago, Craig Schroeder visited England for the first time and found himself inspired by London's Savile Row, a district known for men’s bespoke tailoring. Though he’d grown up in a stylish family, including a brother who modeled haute couture, Craig hadn’t quite grasped the nuances of how clothing looks on the individual until that moment. “Everyone has something they don’t love about themselves, and custom clothing can minimize what you don’t like and highlight what you do like,” he points out. “I saw people getting measured, getting outfitted for their body types — and it was imprinted on my brain.”

Though he had his hands full as an attorney, Craig returned from Europe with new plans for his clothing company, a side business he’d maintained to keep his

HOW COMMONWEALTH PROPER SUITS THE INDIVIDUAL

creativity sharp. The new company, Commonwealth Proper, started with men’s customized shirts and soon forayed into other sartorial elements as well. “I thought to myself, a shirt is just one part of a wardrobe puzzle for men,” he says, “so we started creating other elements: jeans, tuxedos, anything a man would wear, all through American tailors we have either hired or contracted.”

Today, Commonwealth Proper has four locations, including Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C. and the flagship in Craig’s native city of Philadelphia. Men who shop with Commonwealth Proper are provided an elite experience. Shopping is done by appointment, and each of the four locations delivers the brand promise. Because the company uses its own fabric and creates its own seasonal collections, nothing is mass produced.

Craig and his business partner, Doug Martin, who is also a longtime friend, both ensure the company adheres to its original vision: each tailored piece is completely American-made — no fast fashion and no cheap fabric. “It’s one of our tenets,” Craig says. “I don’t know if the average consumer cares about it, but we do.”

Visit commonwealthproper.com/pages/custom-suits-atlanta.

DRESS FOR THE OCCASION: EXPERT ADVICE  Casual Lunches

“Because it’s a laid-back lunch spot, wearing something that speaks to this relaxed atmosphere is best,” says Craig. “Think jeans, a t-shirt and one of our Citizen Coats, which is essentially a “chore coat” —  an unstructured, patch-pocketed jacket that is versatile.”

Weekend Dinners

“Since many spots are dark, moody and elevated, your clothes should be too,” Craig notes. “I favor a black dress shirt with black buttons, navy or black blazer paired with dark jeans (yes, we make custom denim) and chelsea boots. Think a little New York City, badass and exciting. It’s also a great jumping-off point to your next spot post-dinner.”

Special Events

“In such a situation, you want to look your best,” Craig points out. “A sharply tailored suit (try one of our “tech suits” made from Swissimported stretch fabric), t-shirt and sneakers works.”

“Sincemanyspots aredark,moodyand elevated,yourclothes should be too.”

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A full-course meal sent right to their doorstep. We are not only delivering dinner, we are delivering the gift of time around the table with the people that matter the most.

FEEL-GOOD DRINKING

For many reasons, partiers are turning to non-alcoholic cocktails. Gone are the days of a bartender just mixing up a Shirley Temple in a rocks glass when an intrepid drinker requested a no-proof beverage.

Now, bartenders are stocking their top shelves and well with a gorgeous variety of alcohol-free bottles and keeping cans of spirit-free, ready-mixed cocktails in the cooler.

For whatever reason (and it’s nobody’s business), more people are giving up booze. And face it, life feels better and heads remain clearer without it.

Without booze, you can get more done and treat your body like a temple, not a basement.

Spiritless was founded by three women juggling the long hours of entrepreneurism, the skepticism of a male-dominated industry, the expectations of motherhood, the fulfillment of mentoring, the intimacy of partnership and the desire to carve out just five minutes of Zen.

The team brings experience working with some of the largest spirits conglomerates in the world. As busy, career-oriented parents, they were also feeling the strain of weekday drinks at work dinners, added calories, and sluggish mornings after a few glasses. Together, Lauren Chitwood, Abbey Ferguson, and Lexie Lancaster Larsen created Spiritless, now with Kentucky 72, Jalisco 55 and two pour over canned cocktails: a whiskey sour and old-fashioned.

"We love and respect the strong women we've met in this industry -- from bottle shop owners to mixologists to retail buyers -- just as much as we enjoy being female founders,” says Abbey.

"When you're a working mom, prioritizing family is paramount, even on a day devoted to you. Between the three of us, we have 12 kids under 12, so you'll likely find us chasing a few moments of Zen in between breakfast in bed and opening macaroni artwork presents,” says Lauren.

How do they do it?

A variety of hand-selected American oak is combined with a high-proof neutral grain spirit. By modulating the heat and pressure in the still, they imitate the barrel aging process seen in traditional spirits, over multiple years, in a matter of hours. The intensely flavored high-proof oak-infused spirit cools in preparation for the next phase. The reverse distillation process separates ethanol from the Kentucky 74 distillate. “The ethanol is then removed and repurposed for the next batch. We call this our 'regenerative ingredient,'” Lexi explains. The distillate that remains in the still is non-alcoholic. This is where Kentucky 74 is born. Just like a fine craft Bourbon, Kentucky 74 is blended by selecting specific totes from various distillations, each with a unique character. The distiller selects the perfect combination of totes to create Kentucky 74, a smooth, balanced spirit with hints of caramel, vanilla, and oak.

“Yes, you’ll miss a little bit of the burn, because frankly, that's what alcohol does. But as passionate drinkers

ourselves, we knew a little bit of heat was necessary, so you'll find that in Kentucky 74 and Jalisco 55," says Lauren.

But wait, there’s more good to the brand! Through 2% for the Girls, they will donate up to 2% of Spiritless sales to nonprofits, programs and partnerships that foster entrepreneurialism, mentoring and leadership development among young women.

Spiritless can be found at 20+ independent locations in Atlanta including Total Wine and both Amazon and Spiritless.com ship to all 50 U.S. states.

CREATING SPACES FOR A LIFE BEST LIVED!

Inspired by an episode of HGTV’s “Room by Room”, Ashton Wilson realized very young she had a passion for design. “I begged my mother to help me recreate one of the bedrooms from the show. This ignited my interest in interior design and I never looked back”, says Ashton.

Despite pursuing other careers, this passionate interior designer made the right move taking a leap of faith and following her heart. After achieving an undergraduate degree at Auburn, Ashton returned to school to earn a second degree in interior design. In 2022 she established her own firm, Ashton Interior Design.

She’s making a name for herself creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind designs. Based in north Atlanta, what makes her work unique is being both an interior designer and a talented artist. “Art plays a pivotal role in design, serving as a powerful source of inspiration or the missing puzzle piece that truly completes a space. Being both allows me to view spaces through a unique lens”, says Ashton.

Her favorite source of inspiration is her clients. Inspired by their stories and goals, this

DESIGN INSPIRED

leads her to create spaces tailored uniquely to their style and personality that are both beautiful and functional.

She’s pragmatic, taking in all aspects to create a custom-fit design. Do clients have young children, pets, older adult parents or extended family living with them? Is the space dark or light? How will family and guests flow and use the space?

The Heart of A Home:

The kitchen is where families gather, entertain friends and enjoy creating culinary creations.  As you design your kitchen, consider the people who will gather together.

Functionality is important to design considerations. Think about how you prepare meals. Would a prep sink benefit you or a kettle faucet? Do you prefer a separate stove and wall ovens or a range? Do you have children who require a drawer microwave set lower for ease of use? Do you buy in bulk from the grocer requiring more pantry storage or do you purchase more refrigerated goods requiring a full-length refrigerator?

Next up are appliances. There are so many to choose from the process can be overwhelming. Think about the features you’ll actually use when cooking to help narrow your search. Setting a budget is important too and be sure someone is checking and rechecking measurements!

Another important decision is the range or stove hood. Consider making a statement with a custom built-in design or a glamorous full metal hood. Perhaps go minimalistic and recess the ventilation flush into the ceiling.

Always staying informed about new, creative ideas, Ashton still has her favorite design trends, especially when it comes to the kitchen. Drawn to certain styles including stained wood

cabinetry, mixing light and dark stains or offsetting painted cabinets with a stained wood island adds depth and warmth. She loves adding deeper fulllength cabinetry as a practical way to add space or appliance storage while creating variety to the style of cabinetry. Varying cabinets types help make a space more custom.

Select finishes that will hold up to the wear and tear of your family’s daily use. Choose a color palette you love and work from there to thoughtfully choose everything from cabinet colors to countertops. The end game is to create a uniquely personalized kitchen design that is both functionally and aesthetically tailored to your family.

Ashton tells us about her favorites, “I really like Zellige tiles, a gorgeous handmade Moroccan tile. It’s a beautiful way to add subtle texture and interest to a backsplash. I love the character this tile adds. Neutral spaces have been super popular, but I do like color! There is a rise in greens and blues for kitchens - baths too - and I love it!"

A favorite project of Ashton’s was a gorgeous dining room covered in a luxurious chinoiserie style wallpaper. The organic movement in the paper offsets the traditional Henredon ball and claw foot table.  The focal point of the room is the crystal Yves

chandelier by Thomas O’Brien. Newly upholstered chairs in green suede pulled the soft green from the wallpaper into the center of the room. A hand-knotted, transitional-style rug in natural soft grays and white pattern completes the look.

She enjoys sharing her talent with family and friends. Ashton designed her sister’s Dr. Taylour Welborn’s Providence Veterinary Clinic. “There was so much wasted space and two waiting rooms scarcely used. I redesigned the entire space including new exam rooms, a private office, reconfigured the waiting room adding a stacked stone feature, and painted the walls and ceiling in warm neutral whites creating the illusion of more space and enhancing the overall ambiance, "says Ashton.

QUICK TIPS TO BRIGHTEN ANY ROOM:

Furniture: Find pieces to scale determined through effective space planning.

Having a plan makes shopping and deciding on appropriate pieces much easier.

Living Room: Replace a ceiling fan in the living room with a decorative light fixture, which is an easy way to add style to a space.

Dining Room: Experiment with the ceiling! Dining rooms are great spaces to play with color or a ceiling treatment.

Foyer: Add layers to your console table. Place a piece of art in front of a wall mounted mirror or vice-versa. This creates a curated look and will instantly upgrades your foyer.

Fabric: A favorite of mine is boucle, while not new, is a great way to add texture to a space. Adding an upholstered boucle piece creates another layer of interest to a space.

To get started, Ashton invites inquiries through A Discovery Call - a time to share design goals, likes and dislikes, budget, timeline and project phases.  ashtoninteriordesign.com

We tend to our steaks with the passion of a winemaker, our master butcher monitors our steaks daily for 21 days in a temperature and humidity-controlled vault, then carves it by hand.

Does our obsession pay off? You tell us.

94 PERIMETER CENTER WEST, DUNWOODY, GA 770 730 8447

thecapitalgrille.com

IF YOU THINK WINEMAKERS ARE OBSESSIVE ABOUT CARE AND AGING, YOU HAVEN’T MET OUR BUTCHER.

HOLIDAY CHEER MAKING A DIFFERENCE

COMMUNITY GATHERS FOR ANNUAL TRADITION TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON AND SHOP FOR A CAUSE

‘Tis the season to check off your holiday shopping list, and the Junior League of Cobb-Marietta’s (JLCM) annual Mistletoe Market is a perfect place to start. The merchant market merges fellowship, charity and community to encapsulate everything the holidays are about. So grab some friends, write your list and get tickets to partake in these festivities for a cause.

The event kicks off at the Cobb County Civic Center with Premiere Night on November 9, where shoppers get a first look at the merchants that have set up shop this year and browse collections of handmade and locally sourced treasures. Then, the rest of the community is invited to “Market Days” November 10-11, which have historically raised funds to support JLCM’s mission.

“This is an event that truly makes a difference in our community. Your support of the market allows our league of incredible women to help meet the needs

of our most vulnerable citizens,” says Tammy Thorpe, 2023-24 JLCM President.

JLCM will continue celebrating 90 years in the Cobb/ Marietta community at the Mistletoe Market this year. Their efforts, which have not gone unnoticed, have paved the way for monumental achievements like founding the Center for Children and Young Adults and the Cobb County Youth Museum, serving at the Cobb County Safety Village and fundraising for programs like Cobb Diaper Day.

Cristin Kennedy, who has been a part of JLCM for over four years and serves as the VP of Fund Development, says it best:

“We get to highlight small businesses from the Cobb and Metro area, continue a beloved tradition of almost 30 years, watch performances by Cobb County School District and Marietta City School students, and kick off the 2023 holiday season with a Santa visit, and much more.”

Superfoods for a Super Life

Organic superfoods fuel your brain and body with the nutritional requirements you need to thrive in this high stress, toxic world.

The benefits of a diet filled with high-quality superfoods are many, including…

• Improved cognitive ability and mental focus

• Cardiovascular health

• Improved liver function

• Anti-inflammatory and immune system support

• Increased energy and endurance

• Enhanced libido

• Blood sugar stability

• Better sleep

• Improved digestion

It is more difficult than ever to get all the daily nutrition you need from your diet alone, even if you

buy all organic.  The soil has been depleted of nutrients by toxic chemicals, but your body’s needs are the same, even greater. It’s no wonder the supplement industry is booming.

To ensure that your body gets everything it needs, a superfood system that blankets your body with all the nutrients that it could possibly need throughout the day is best. Your body’s Intelligence will take what it needs and get rid of the rest. This strategy, as a daily ritual, will keep you healthy and performing at your highest level at work, in sports, and all your daily activities.

Our practice recommends the StriveLife Superfood System and our patients love it.

Plasker Family& Performance Chiropractic plaskerchiropractic.com

LIFESTYLE | FITNESS

Do you experience headaches, eye strain, neck & shoulder pain, dizzness or dry eye?

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Practice of Nicole Mardak O.D.

& Heather Zutaut O.D.

Extensive Showroom Featuring Traditional and Fashionable Eyewear

Only Practice in North Atlanta Prescribing Neurolens Eyeglass Lenses for Treatment of Headaches, Eye Strain, Shoulder Pain, Dizziness, Dry Eye and Light Sensitivity

Trusted Practice with Decades of Collective Professional Experience Providing Comprehensive Eye Health Services