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WELCOME SPRING! Spring is traditionally the busiest season for real estate, and this year should be no exception. As the 2023 market evolves, you need a Trusted Advisor with proven experience to guide you. With 17 years experience, Sharon Macaluso is a top performing REALTOR® in East Cobb and the surrounding metro-Atlanta markets, specializing in resales and new construction. Sharon is a recipient of the Board of Realtors prestigious Phoenix Award, and Harry Norman’s “Miss Emmie” Award, recognized for loyalty, professionalism, ethical conduct, team spirit and overall involvement in the real estate industry. Sharon is a Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and Accredited Relocation Specialist. Call Sharon today to achieve real estate success in 2023!

SHARON MACALUSO #2 INDIVIDUAL AGENT E COBB OFFICE 2022

HARRY NORMAN, REALTORS®

OUR EAST COBB AGENTS SERVE ALL OF MARKET UPDATE METRO LUXURY ATLANTA INCLUDING LUXURY METRO METRO ATLANTA ATLANTA || QUARTER QUARTER 4 4 2022 2022 HOMES SUCH AS THOSE AT THE OAKS AT $1M $1M -- $2.5M $2.5M MILL POND. HOMES FOR SALE HOMES FOR SALE (END Q4) (END Q4)

731 68% %

COMPARED TO Q4 2021 COMPARED TO Q4 2021

TOTAL NEW LISTINGS TOTAL NEW LISTINGS

708 10.8% %

COMPARED TO Q4 2021 COMPARED TO Q4 2021

TOTAL HOMES SOLD TOTAL HOMES SOLD

492 25.3% %

AVERAGE SOLD PRICE AVERAGE SOLD PRICE

MONTHS OF INVENTORY MONTHS OF INVENTORY

36 9.1% %

$1.41M 2% %

5.1 119.2% %

COMPARED TO Q4 2021 COMPARED TO Q4 2021

BALANCED

BALANCED C: 770-378-3113 | O: 770-977-9500 MARKET MARKET Sharon.Macaluso@HarryNorman.com

2585 MIDDLE CORAY CIRCLE | MARIETTA, GA | 30066

COMPARED TO Q4 2021 COMPARED TO Q4 2021

AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET

COMPARED TO Q4 2021 COMPARED TO Q4 2021

Featured Listing

COMPARED TO Q4 2021 COMPARED TO Q4 2021

Enclosed Courtyard with Woodburning Fireplace

The Oaks at Mill Pond is a luxury new homes, lock and leave community in East Cobb. Each characterfilled, custom home has been thoughtfully designed with modern life in mind, showcasing refined architectural detail and stunning outdoor living areas. Beneath the shade of 100 year old oak and magnolia trees, residents may gather in the rustic fireside pavilion situated in the center of a lushly landscaped neighborhood park.

MARY BETH LAKE | Senior VP & Managing Broker

East Cobb Office | 4651 Olde Towne Parkway, Marietta, GA 30068

6 months of inventory is a balanced market 6 months of inventory is a balanced market

Source: TrendGraphix. Core Counties combined - Cherokee, Cobb, DeKalb, Forsyth, Source: TrendGraphix. ZIP 30062 (FMLS), ZIP 30066 30067 ZIP Source: TrendGraphix. Core Counties combined - Cherokee, Cobb, DeKalb, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, all (FMLS), residential, $1M -ZIP $2.5M, stated period (FMLS), versus same period prior30068 (FMLS), ZIP 30075 (FMLS), all residential. $1M+, stated period versus Fulton, Gwinnett, all residential, $1M is - $2.5M, stated period versus same prior year. The above believed to be accurate is notperiod warranted. year. The above information is believed but to be accurate but is not warranted. same period prior year. The above information is believed toinformation be accurate is notbut warranted.

March 2023 PUBLISHER

Lisa Thibault | l.thibault@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

From my home to yours, welcome early spring Home. So much is contained in that simple word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value home holds for all of us is undeniable. As we thought about home for this issue, we wanted to highlight what makes it special. This, of course, includes interior design, from aesthetics to color trends to innovation. But most importantly, what makes a home are the cozy spots and special spaces for family and friends to gather. We feel fortunate. In this issue, we had the opportunity to learn more about the businesses and individuals that call our community home and have a passion for giving back. We hope these stories help bring us even closer together. We invite you to read about passionate resident Ali Salimi and his family on page 30. Flipping through this issue, we also hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you in your neighborhood and, most of all, to your own home. Finesse your space with advice from Joseph Fava, a nationally renowned design expert with clients along the entire east coast from the Blue Ridge to Miami. Thinking about making a move? Proven real estate expert Amy Jones - Team Principal and Atlanta LEGACY Team Founder, shares why the time is now and encourages us not to wait — seize your dreams — it's time to fall in love with your new home! Finally, we're always searching for those drivable spots — not far from home —where we can relax and unwind. Just a short distance away, you'll find a unique town nestled amongst glimmering rivers and gorgeous oak trees. Darien, Georgia embraces an annual tradition drawing people from near and far, and we can't wait to visit. Finally, every month, we hear from you, our readers, that our publication is kept far longer than just the month labeled on the cover. You've shared it's not uncommon to hold onto an issue for several weeks, enjoying the opportunity to pass along and take note of the stories. We feel fortunate for the opportunity to create a resource that continues to grow. Please know we strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home. Happy March! L I S A T H I B A U LT , P U B L I S H E R @EASTCOBBCIT YLIFEST YLE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/E A STCOBB |

EDITOR

Denise K. James | denise.james@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Melissa Schollaert, Wayne Albright

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Josh Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

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

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

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Come see us for a March Madness Makeover

770-977-3696

Is now the time to buy on 30A? Rachel Hutchings Luxury Beach Group 30A Luxury Realtor | Principal Agent 850.842.9202 rachel.hutchings@compass.com luxurybeachgroup.com Luxury Beach Group is a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

191 PLANTATION CIRCLE SANTA ROSA BEACH, FL 32459 $1,679,000 | 5 BD | 5 BA | 3,396 SF Located in the highly desirable and gated 30A west community of Cypress Breeze Plantation, the property of your dreams sits on an extra large lot backing a preserve. Being only minutes from the beach, this newly built home is the perfect investment to turn into a vacation rental; just in time to maximize profit for the Spring and Summer season. This oasis is fully turnkey with the inclusion of a 2022 6-Seat LSV. Whether you looking to claim this sanctuary as your own or seeking a new investment opportunity connect with me today for all of your 30A real estate needs.

Scan the QR Code to explore inside the home

Immerse Yourself in Luxury Experience the Exceptional Cradled by Georgia’s Coastal Iconic Riverfront Bluff

Elegant Room Accommodations | Spa & Fitness Curated Private Island Excursions | Award-Winning Dining Uniquely Styled Weddings & Events

833.550.OAKS (6257) 205 Fort King George Dr. | Darien, GA oaksontheriverresort.com

MARCH 2023

inside the issue The Home Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Brushstrokes of Genius

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Giving Back HO ME + DES I GN

Home Update LI FE + C U LT U R E

Trend Setter HO ME + DES I GN

Decor Trends HO ME + DES I GN

Inspired By LI FE + C U LT U R E

Must See A RTS + C U LT U R E

Local’s Only R EA L ESTAT E

The Atlanta Painting Company Paints it Forward

20 Creative by Design

Meet Joseph Fava of Fava Design Group

30 A is for Affinity

Ali Salimi, co-founder of The Auto Accident Attorneys Group, says there’s no place like home

38 The Heat is Still On

Realtor Amy Jones on the local housing market

O N T H E C OV E R

Award-winning designer Joseph Fava finds inspiration around every corner.

CUSTOM SHUTTERS, SHADES & BLINDS For Every Room In Your Home.

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Pella is the most preferred window brand by homeowners.*

Your local Pella ® team is ready to show you the right window or door for your home and budget. Whether wood, vinyl or fiberglass, let our team find the right product that fits your vision. Pella can help support the completion of your project - from a new construction install to a remodel project. Your home is unique, so you shouldn't have to settle for an ordinary window or door. Call today for your free in-home consultation and learn more.

Pella Window & Door Showrooms

2605 North Berkeley Lake Road , Duluth, GA I 678.638.1429

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p e11aofg a. co ml city I ifestyl e *Study of homeowner perceptions of leading national brands. Study commissioned by Pella, 2021.

Now is the Time to Sell! In 2023, Atlanta / Marietta has been projected to be number 1 of the top 10 markets to lead the Nation. This is the time to sell!* List with a local expert invested in your community.

Amy Jones Team Principal & REALTOR® amy.jones@compass.com M: 404.409.0528 | O: 404.668.6621 *Data provided by the National Association of Realtors.

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

MARCH 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

An exclusive fashion experience Each style is carefully hand selected. You’ll find today’s most sought after designs and must-have pieces. Featuring modern takes on casual wear, dressy fashions and accessories! We invite you to schedule an appointment with a personal stylist.

Create Your Unique Experience Host a private shopping event and enjoy: Browse Newest Designs | Refreshments | Give-Aways | Girl Time

10 Women of Hope Fundraiser with Chattahoochee Women’s Club Chattahoochee Women’s Club - a nonprofit dedicated to community service and giving back - invites you to join an evening of fun and purpose. Guests will enjoy barbecue, cocktails, 6666 Grit & Glory brew, music by local artist Brandon Crocker and axe throwing. Wear your favorite jeans and western wear! Your attendance will support 10 Women of HOPE, which helps Cobb County single-parent families experiencing critical needs through a one-time financial gift. womenofhope.org.

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Want to be featured?

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

Dr. Ike Reighard Named Cobb Citizen of the Year Congratulations to MUST Ministries President and CEO Dr. Ike Reighard, named Cobb Citizen of the Year, presented by the Marietta Daily Journal and Publisher Otis Brumby, Jr. at Cobb County Chamber of Commerce dinner. The Chamber is dedicated to bringing the community and leaders together to create jobs and strengthen the economy and quality of life. mustministries.org

LIVE MUSIC OUTDOOR PATIO FULL MENU - LUXURY SEATING THEMED PARTIES - FAMILY FUN SIGNATURE COCKTAILS - CRAFTED BREWS

Chief Deputy Rhonda Anderson Presented with Living the Dream Award The Cobb County NAACP presented Chief Deputy Rhonda Anderson of the Cobb Sheriff’s Office with the Living the Dream Award during the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebration in January at the Civic Center. Anderson, celebrating 40 years in law enforcement, is the first Black female sheriff’s deputy in the county, has been with the office since 1983 and now serves as second-in-command.

HOST YOUR COMPANY OR SOCIAL EVENT WITH US 404.255.0140 - SPRINGSCINEMA.COM MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / E ASTC O BB

Brushstrokes

OF GENIUS

Chris Camp, owner of the Atlanta Painting Company, has quite a story — starting with when he became a franchisee of the College Pros Painting Company as a college student in Michigan. Ambitious from an early age, Camp worked his way to regional manager and led 13 College Pros franchisees, then relocated to Arizona to lead the sales team of The Arizona Painting Company. In 2006, Camp moved to the peach state and started the Atlanta Painting Company. While there were plenty of other painting companies in the Atlanta market at the time, Camp saw the need for a business valuing experience, quality of work and customer service. “I felt like, with our years of experience, we could deliver an amazing experience to home and business owners that could not be rivaled with our quality of work and focus on customer service,” says Camp. “The success we found in our business model not only allowed us to scale quickly and become one of the largest residential painting companies in the country, but enabled us to create a template we could take to other markets.” But Camp and his team are not content to rest on these laurels — far from it. Currently, The Atlanta Painting Company is highly involved with the community, including their work with the well-known program, Paint it Forward. Zander Roberts, director of marketing since 2018, recalls when he realized the importance of Paint it Forward. At a home located in Canton, the homeowner was battling cancer, and Paint it Forward stepped up to lend a hand. The organization has really taken off from there, gaining partners and support from the community and beyond. “There was a growing passion by company leaders and associates to give back and support the communities – the cities — our company serves,” Roberts says. “To help realize this passion, we made the decision to grow and expand our Paint It Forward efforts.” We realized we could help more people by shifting our focus from one home – or one family or one residence — to more of a nonprofit focus where one entity is serving many.” Recently, SCANA Energy stepped up and, for the last two years, has matched the Atlanta Painting Company’s donations of $5,000 annually to Paint

G IV IN G BAC K | HOM E + DE S I GN

THE ATLANTA PAINTING COMPANY PAINTS IT FORWARD

EAST COBB’S INJURY FIRM ARTICLE BY DENISE K. JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY BY WAYNE ALBRIGHT

JOHNSON FERRY

(866)220-1490

ROSWELL

@THE_AAA_GROUP

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WWW.THEAAAGROUP.CO M

CONTINUED >

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“Customer First is our mantra, which supports our mission to deliver an amazing experience to everyone we come in contact with.”

G IV IN G BAC K | HOM E + DE S I GN

it Forward projects. Sherwin Williams, as well, has donated plenty of paint to support Paint it Forward. In addition, countless donations of flooring, supplies, prep materials, brushes and much more are donated. It’s a symbiotic relationship for all involved, Roberts says. “They have the same passion and burning desire to lift up the communities they serve,” he notes. “The greatest gift is the donation of time by so many who come together to bring the project to life.” He points out how nonprofits are able to prioritize funds in other more poignant ways with the help of Paint it Forward. For the nonprofit Emmy’s Academy, as one example, their mission is to provide children with unique learning needs an early education – but relocating to a new building ramped up preparation expenses. Paint it Forward was glad to offset those costs – in fact, nonprofits that focus on families and children are a focal point. “We support Global Orphan, a nonprofit that sets up orphanages all around the world, as well as supports families,” Roberts comments. “APC is a Founding Circle member, and, through the company's support, we’ve been able to help hundreds of families stay together and thrive through donations of food, clothing and housing. We also invest in Operation Lunch Box. Operation Lunch Box provides 3,600 kids with food each week and operates in 25 counties across Georgia, with a goal of providing assistance to all 52 counties.” “SCANA’s commitment to our customers includes being a good neighbor and making a difference in the lives of the communities we serve. Emmy’s Academy provides a valuable service that makes a difference to families in the area and this beautiful makeover is well-deserved," says Carol King, senior marketing. “They painted the entire interior — they went above and beyond,” adds Bianca Macias, incoming director of Emmy’s Academy. “Our place wasn't in the best shape; we had expenses for plumbing, CONTINUED >

HEALTHY LONGEVITY FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY

Whether you like it or not, want to or not, you will probably live longer than you ever thought. And so will your kids. If you want to enjoy active, healthy, quality years, the health of your spine and nervous system must be a priority now. • If you are in pain now, how will you feel in a decade? • If you are sick now, how sick will you be in a decade? • If you take medication now, are you solving the problem or creating new ones that show up down the road?

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G IV IN G BAC K | HOM E + DE S I GN

electrical, things like that. Paint it Forward made the entire facility look brighter — but with calming tones for the kids. We’re now full speed ahead, and it has been great.” Currently, the Atlanta Painting Company is celebrating (among many other milestones and accolades) becoming the official painting company for Georgia Tech Athletics. “It has been so meaningful and exciting to be part of such a prestigious university. One of the reasons we made the decision was to tie ourselves into the local community and really be a part,” Roberts says. Atlanta Painting Company has offices in Canton, Roswell and Peachtree City. “We have these locations because we want a presence — we want to be part of the community so our customers see us, and they can easily find us, and we can better keep our fingers on the pulse of what’s happening in the neighborhoods around us,” says Mike Rawlings, chief revenue officer. “We already have a Nashville Painting Company location that opened in 2016 and, in Dallas, one called State 28 Painting that opened in 2020. We have plans to expand State 28 Painting Company to Austin, Houston and San Antonio in the future.” "A true highlight of my career is helping to bring SCANA Energy, Atlanta Painting Company and 680TheFan together. We're proud to be the marketing and media arm of the Paint it Forward campaign. It has been an honor and privilege to work alongside these two companies and witness how they give back to the community. Emmy’s Academy is an amazing charity, and it was incredibly meaningful to broadcast live and watch the transformation of the charity’s new home," says Tyler Nelson, director of local partnerships at 680TheFan. “For us, it's all about action and attitudes” Rawlings thoughtfully adds. “Customer First is our mantra, which supports our mission to deliver an amazing experience to everyone we come in contact with. Both at work and in our communities, whether it's through volunteerism, personal life or painting projects.” Visit atlantapaintingcompany.com.

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770.974.5303 | KRykman@Allstate.com MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / E ASTC O BB

CREATIVE BY DESIGN

ARTICLE BY DENISE K. JAMES

MEET JOSEPH FAVA OF FAVA DESIGN GROUP

H OM E U P DAT E | L IFE + C ULTURE

It didn’t take long for Joseph Fava to leap from his cushy job at a Florida design firm to owning his own business – five years, to be exact — but the now-well-known interior designer knows he made the right move. “I started with no prospects, just the idea that I wanted to start my own firm,” he says. “As luck would have it, a few days after I resigned from my previous role, a client I’d designed two projects for called me and asked me to redo the interior of his yacht.” Fava hit the ground running and is still moving today, thanks to his sterling reputation in the communities of Florida, the Blue Ridge and other east coast locales. The day we spoke, he’d just returned from a winter furniture and textile show in Paris. “It’s a very social event filled with fabulous parties, informative presentations and myriad items to inspire. It’s great fun, and we try to attend every winter,” he shares,

clearly already back in his groove despite arriving home just the night before. He’s no stranger to the challenges and demands of owning a business — in fact, he comes from a long line of entrepreneurs; his family owned one of the largest produce companies on the east coast in his childhood home of Baltimore since the turn of the 20th century. “I always joke I’m the only designer who can drive a forklift,” he laughs. “Since I come from a family business, I know how to wear all the hats.” Still, while energy and know-how is certainly part of the puzzle, creativity and vision are more important to Fava, who enjoys the exchange of ideas with his clients. He admits that he cannot put a label on his firm’s aesthetic — like great design itself, it is always evolving. “I have a philosophy about design and designers,” he reveals. “It is my belief that the job of the designer is to create a unique space for the client. I’ve never wanted to place a specific label on my design aesthetic because when you do that, the client is merely buying your style. Our projects are unique; we try not to duplicate fabrics or furniture. My job is to take a vision and use my expertise and knowledge to create designs based on that vision. I am proud that I have been published for contemporary and traditional looks and everything in between.” He values the opportunity to stay informed about new, creative ideas – which is the reason he travels to Europe, where

certain design elements are debuting far ahead of the U.S. — and to introduce new ideas to his clients. Then there are other times clients push him in new directions as well. A time or two, someone’s taste seemed out of the box at first – then morphed into one of the company’s most memorable projects. “We had a client we designed an office space for. Then, a year later, he bought a condo in Fort Lauderdale, which he asked us to design. He wanted a red kitchen and very colorful slabs in all the bathrooms. I tried to guide him to more neutral countertop slabs — but he promptly rejected those, as they didn’t conform to his vision. Eventually, we found a slab with reds and grays and blacks that he loved — the rest of the bathrooms in the house embraced his love of colorful slabs as well. Making me think outside of the box turned into one of our best projects and received positive accolades.” In his personal residence, Fava’s evolving tastes and sensibilities are constantly on display from room to room. He cherishes

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antique pieces he has inherited from his family, deftly combining them with modern accents and eye-catching artwork. Art, according to Fava, is crucial to any well-designed home. “Art is an element that can make or break the space. A client can spend a fortune on furniture but can ruin the whole aesthetic with poor choices in art and accessories. Therefore, I like to curate collections for my clients,” he says. “We all know art comes in many shapes, sizes, and materials, so I like to create a collection that encompasses oil paintings, photography and watercolors with metal sculpture or glass installations. A diverse collection is more interesting.”

H OM E U P DAT E | L IFE + C ULTURE

IF YOU THINK WINEMAKERS ARE OBSESSIVE ABOUT

CARE AND AGING, YOU HAVEN’T MET OUR BUTCHER.

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 P ERI M ETER CEN TER W ES T, D UN WOODY, GA 770 730 8447 t hecapi t a l g ri l l e . co m

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3 Hot Trends

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY J.A. STENGER PHOTOGRAPHY

in Kitchen Design

A peek at what’s ahead: bold cabinet colors, statement hardware and swaths of stone. When designing your dream kitchen, it’s important to balance timeless features with elements that reflect your personality and design aesthetic. You may not plan to remodel your kitchen each year (does anyone do that?), but that doesn’t mean there aren’t creative ways to keep your space feeling modern and fresh. We spoke with interior designer Brooke Cover about the trends in kitchen design she’s seeing this year, touching on everything from cabinet colors and lighting to tile and countertop combos she’s loving.

TAKING THE COUNTER MATERIAL UP THE BACKSPLASH Although the iconic subway tile backsplash is timeless in its own right, Brooke says she is seeing a big shift toward marble slab backsplashes — which add drama and depth to the kitchen. Not only is it easier to clean than tile, but a marble backsplash and countertop also sets the tone for the entire space and makes a big statement.

WARMING UP THE WHITE We doubt the classic white kitchen will ever completely go out of style, but trends show people are going away from the white kitchen and gray cabinets. They’re opting for white mixed with warmer wood tones, dark greens and blues. Some homeowners are mixing vintage in with the new and modern through butcher block islands or other unique cabinetry choices. Black is making a bold comeback in some kitchens, while others usher in warmth through painted islands or other darker contrast tiles in the bar area. You don’t have to leave behind the timelessness when you warm up your space if you opt for equally timeless black and wood-stained accents. If you want a quick refresh, consider adding pops of wood through cutting boards or other decor accents on countertops or open shelves.

CONTRAST, CONTRAST, CONTRAST! From painted and stained islands to dark lower cabinetry with bright white uppers and mixed lighting fixtures, contrast is the name of the game this year. You’ll see this juxtaposition between clean white and darker colors or even this year’s favorite - greens and blues - all over newly designed kitchens. You’re not breaking any rules by coordinating sculptural pendants over the kitchen island with more vintage-inspired gooseneck sconces over the standalone bar or a chandelier over the eat-in kitchen.

T R E N D SE T T E R | HOM E + DE S I GN

Brooke’s Pro Tip: I suggest viewing countertop slabs in person vs. a small sample piece because each slab has unique movement and colors. They are all so beautiful and works of art. Taking a trip to the warehouse will really help a client to understand the different types available and see the difference in the look of the material. S C A N Q R C O D E F O R B R O O K E ’ S FAV O R I T E COUNTERTOPS THIS YEAR.

Your Home. Our Mission.

Redefining Home Here at E+E Group, ‘home’ is not defined as just a piece of property. Our passion and daily motivation is to make our clients feel simply, just welcome. As realtors, we’re extremely fond of where we live, work and leisure and we want to aid our clients in falling in love with our community and all that our beautiful town has to offer. We have orchestrated a thriving ecosystem for our clients that goes well beyond just a transaction. By embracing the mountain lifestyle through design, art and the support of local businesses and charities, we have become an integral part of our community. Partnering with E+E Group, you are not only joining our family and community, but you’ll become part of our home, a place you’ll quickly realize extends well beyond a piece of real estate.

Laura Elleby

Thomas Echea

678.736.1132 | 404.668.6621 laura.elleby@compass.com

954.980.2830 | 404.668.6621 thomas.echea@compass.com

Switch

IT UP Great lighting can make your home inviting and add interest to rooms, furniture or art that you want to showcase. Try these tips for enhancing lighting – you'll never feel "in the dark" again!

LAYER UP. The overhead light in a room is not going to do much in terms of brightness — which is why experts recommend layering. In addition to overhead lights, add task lighting (such as lamps by a table for reading) and accent lighting to showcase something — think an eye-catching piece of art, sofa or buffet.

ADD REFLECTION. You knew about the mirror trick to make a room seem larger, but did you know mirrors and other reflective surfaces can also enhance light? Light bounces off mirrors and other shiny surfaces to create brighter space.

UPGRADE BULBS. Are you operating old-school bulbs and outdated switches? Swapping everything out for updated versions can make a difference. For example, if you have updated switches but older bulbs and lamps, you might not get the maximum light.

GET SMART. A smart switch will allow you to control lights (and other things inside your home) digitally. This means that when you’re cozy in your bed and suddenly recall that you’ve forgotten to turn off the light in the downstairs office, you can do it digitally with the touch of a finger, or, in some cases, your voice. Start with smart bulbs for your lamps to control lamps remotely, then upgrade other things like outlets. Digital assistants like Amazon Echo and Google Home add even more convenience.

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Ali Salimi, co-founder of The Auto Accident Attorneys Group, says there’s no place like home ARTICLE BY EAST COBB LIFESTYLE

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

Ali Salimi, co-founder of The Auto Accident Attorneys Group, is an award-winning personal injury attorney and East Cobb native. We chatted with him to discover how and why he moved back from Los Angeles with his family — and why he has no regrets.

EAST COBB LIFESTYLE: DID YOU WANT TO BE AN ATTORNEY WHEN YOU GREW UP? Yes. Actually, in my fifth grade yearbook from Eastside Elementary, under my photo, we were supposed to say something about ourselves and what we hoped to accomplish. Mine said I would win the largest trial verdict in U.S. history. That hasn’t happened yet, but I’m still young!

ECL: WHERE DID THAT AMBITION COME FROM? My parents are Persian immigrants, so I had three options: lawyer, doctor or disappointment. They’re small business owners, but I always felt like they were intimidated by some unknown power structure because of what they witnessed during the Iranian Revolution. I was born here, so I felt a responsibility to take on the thing that was intimidating to them. As a kid, I thought lawyers made the rules for this unknown system, so I was drawn to it. I wanted to level the playing field, in a sense.

ECL: HOW DID THEIR ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT INFLUENCE YOU? I feel like the average lawyer will work for a firm and, if they have entrepreneurial spirit, break out on their own later. But I decided to immediately start my own practice. I started as a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles.

When my wife and I started having kids, we knew we needed to move out of L.A. I grew up in East Cobb; I knew the schools; I even knew the exact cul de sac I wanted to live on. It was a moment of clarity, realizing it was time to come back.

ECL: HOW DID YOUR WIFE LIKE THE IDEA? It was hard to sell since she’s originally from Los Angeles. I can say she loves East Cobb now . . . but that first year and half, absolutely not. [Laughs.] East Cobb is different from Los Angeles, but when you get used to the quiet and the safety, it’s charming — my teachers in high school used to pejoratively say we live in a bubble. Ironically, that bubble is what I wanted for my kids.

ECL: HOW DID YOU FORAY FROM CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAW TO PERSONAL INJURY LAW? As a criminal defense attorney, I was in court five days a week. We were having our first daughter, so the ability to control my time was critical. I convinced my wife to leave her career in corporate securities law to build this practice. She’s now my partner — technically, she’s head attorney of The Auto Accident Attorneys Group. Since we had no preconceived notions about what a personal injury firm should be, we created a one-of-a-kind office and experience. Also, because I grew up here, I didn’t just want to open a business; I wanted to contribute to the culture. We’ve hosted concerts, petting zoos, seasonal festivals, blood drives and other free events. I know my kids are being raised in one of the best communities I’ve ever seen, and I’m happy they're able to see our business grow with them.

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History in the Making

ARTICLE BY DENISE K. JAMES

M UST SE E | A RTS + CU LTURE

DARIEN’S BLESSING OF THE FLEET IS WORTH THE TRIP

Just 15 miles north of St. Simon’s Island and 50 miles south of Savannah is a town with history and character — plus upscale accommodations to stay a while. Darien, Georgia is well worth the visit, and, this spring, you’ll want to plan traveling around the town’s Blessing of the Fleet. Taking place Sunday, April 23 with festivities all weekend, the event will include not only the meaningful send-off for shrimping season but also family-friendly activities, live music, special vendors and more. “This year will be the 55th of the Blessing,” remarks Kat Hoyt, president of Darien-McIntosh Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a treasured tradition in McIntosh County and is not only a celebration of the boats having a prosperous season but also a time for the community to come together.” According to Hoyt, the Blessing of the Fleet is typically held on the first Sunday in April with a high tide — but was postponed a bit this year due to the first spring high tide being on Easter. Festivities for the celebration kick off Friday, April 21 at 4 p.m. with a vendor village and two live performances that evening. Saturday, the fun continues with a 5K sponsored by the local YMCA, breakfast with the local Lions Club, a parade and a “big night of music,” Hoyt says. Then, Sunday morning commences with community worship in the park, followed by the boats’ blessing in the afternoon for a safe, prosperous season — and plenty of Georgia shrimp. “It’s a community-wide festival and a way to celebrate the industry of McIntosh County,” Hoyt notes.

Looking for a spot to stay and enjoy the festivities? Fortunately, a chic boutique hotel opened its doors earlier this year. Oaks on the River is a newly constructed property with just 52 hotel rooms and outstanding amenities for an elite experience. Marketing Director Virginia Hall notes that the Oaks Hotel is a great place to stay during the Blessing of the Fleet weekend and offers “a front row seat” to the entire event. Guests will love The Cedar Bar, home to a gorgeous bartop made of solid cedar wood, procured and crafted by local resident Art Lucas, who had a large cedar tree on his property. “It is a stunning centerpiece,” Hall comments. Meanwhile, the Oaks Club is an intimate restaurant overlooking the river with a delicious, evolving menu. Hall says Oaks on the River looks forward to hosting those who don’t know much about Darien’s history, both as a shrimping town and as part of the South’s storied past. Burned along with Atlanta — except for two buildings, one set to become an exciting new brewery — Darien, like its neighbor Savannah, was a planned community of remarkable architecture, a beckoning riverfront, a town square and much more. “Our location on the Altamaha River is very unique,” Hall says. “Darien has an amazing depth of history and is a beautiful place. Vernon Square offers access to older homes, churches, fountains and beautiful short walks.” The food scene in Darien is booming, with plenty of fresh-caught seafood on numerous menus. The Fish Dock, which serves local clams, offers a view of the processing plant right outside the window – it does not get any fresher. For nature lovers and bird watchers, Darien is a veritable paradise, and its marshy, coastal land holds historic and cultural relevance. Additionally, the Altamaha

“It’s a community-wide festival and a way to celebrate the industry of McIntosh County.” -Kat Hoyt rivershed area is managed by the Department of Resources and was once a rice plantation, according to Hoyt. “We have a rich cultural history, ranging from Native American to Scottish Highlanders to one of the last Gullah Geechee communities living on Sapelo Island,” she adds.

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The Heat is (Still) On Talking real estate with Amy Jones ARTICLE BY EAST COBB LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA SCHOLLAERT

We sat down with Amy Jones of the Atlanta Legacy Team to learn more about the local housing market, and the news is still good! Thinking of selling? Give her a call – there’s a buyer waiting.

EAST COBB LIFESTYLE: WHAT SHOULD BUYERS AND SELLERS KNOW ABOUT THE MARKET RIGHT NOW? In general, stop listening to the national news regarding the market! Our market is strong. We have so many buyers looking, and there is just no inventory. Sellers, please don't wait. If you want to sell or move, please don't put it off thinking there are no buyers because interest rates ticked up a bit. Historically, interest rates are average, and I'm not seeing that being a deterrent to purchasing. However, the low inventory is. I don't want

buyers coming into this market being discouraged with the lack of inventory — I believe sellers just don't have the correct information.

ECL: HOW DO YOU DISCOVER WHAT THE WANTS AND NEEDS ARE OF YOUR CLIENTS? My process for both buyers and sellers starts with a meeting where we discuss their moving goals. If my clients are relocating to Atlanta, it's part of my job to uncover what they want by asking questions like, do you work from home? If not, where? Do you want walkability? Are you a foodie? What does a typical weekend look like for you? Are kids in the picture or future picture? These questions may seem out of the ordinary, but I want to know what they want in a home. Starting there CONTINUED >

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“Sellers, please don’t wait. If you want to sell or move, please don’t put it off thinking there are no buyers because interest rates ticked up a bit...” -Amy Jones

It was the one! It ended up having multiple offers, but we crafted our offer to stand out, and my clients won the bidding war. They still live there today, and I've been lucky enough to help their son and his girlfriend find a home too.

ECL: CAN YOU SHARE A STORY ABOUT A BUYER WHO FOUND THEIR DREAM HOME?

ECL: WHAT KEEPS YOU IN THIS INDUSTRY?

Several years ago, I met with a couple who was renting a townhome to acclimate to Atlanta. The first time we met, they shared how they would love to live near a park — she was a runner and swimmer and he played tennis and golf. Our search led us to Chastain Park, and we looked at everything on the market, some homes more than once. None were the one. But they had time on their side since they had a lease, so we waited. A home hit the market across the street from the park, and I boldly asked if I could bring my clients to the "agent open" the first day on market.

When many people think of my job, they think about buying and selling homes. That’s the result for sure, but it’s not what keeps me in real estate. I trust the process and the root of my business: helping people. Staying grounded for my clients in a process that can be very emotional — believing in their goals as much as they do, and seeing them through to the very end. I also don't disappear once a deal is closed! I love to be a referral source for my clients, from home care and updates to local boutiques and massage therapists.

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