East Cobb, GA February 2026

REMINDS US WE'RE NOT ALONE AME RICAN IDOL'S SLATER NALLEY

Love, Legacy & New Beginnings

February may be the shortest month of the year, but it carries some of the biggest emotions. Love lingers in the air and stories of legacy rise to the surface.

At the heart of this issue is the power of storytelling through music. We’re honored to spotlight Top 5 American Idol alumnus Slater Alley, a South Georgia native whose journey reminds us that art often begins in the most unexpected places. What started as a simple invitation from his English teacher to write a poem became something far more profound—a song written in memory of her late son. It’s a moving testament to how grief, friendship, and creativity can intersect to create something timeless.

Legacy takes on an extra special meaning in our feature on Painting Plus, founded and led by a father-and-son duo whose unwavering work ethic and exceptional craftsmanship have earned them recognition as one of Georgia’s most trusted award-winning general contractors. From painting and renovations to full-scale new construction, their story is one of partnership, pride, and building more than just structures—they build trust with families and business owners alike.

With Valentine’s Day setting the tone for the month, we also turn our attention to love in its most enduring symbol. Selecting an engagement ring and wedding bands goes beyond size and sparkle and this timely article offers thoughtful guidance to choosing rings that are unmistakably you. From metal selections to diamond options and colored stones, it’s a modern approach to meaningful choices that last a lifetime.

Together, as we commemorate Black History Month, we take a thoughtful look at the legacy, achievements, and ongoing impact of trailblazers—stories that deserve remembrance, recognition and deeper understanding.

For those who are eager to explore in the new year, we take you across the pond with a beautifully layered look at London—a city where history and modern life coexist effortlessly. We hope you enjoy as the writer takes you through her Top 10 most favorite places.

And as winter begins to loosen its grip, Jennifer Rust Botanicals guides us into the season ahead, sharing expert insight on spring planning, thoughtful preparation, and the small details that help new beginnings bloom.

This issue is a celebration of connection—between generations, cultures, seasons, and the stories that shape us. We hope this month’s issue inspires you to slow down and savor the moments that make February so meaningful.

With gratitude,

KEVIN KASETA, PUBLISHER

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Kevin Kaseta | kevin.kaseta@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Rei Kaiser

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Emily Anne Jackson

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Wendy Edwards | wpecreative@gmail.com, Jennifer Rust Botanicals, Lisa Phillips Thompson, Tran Bui

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Albright Photography, Cobb County Schools, Cobb Chamber of Commerce, Cobb Community Foundation

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Bill Bruton-Marietta Citizen of the Year, Lauri Bruton-Mayor's "Be Somebody" and Mayor Steve Tumlin 2: James L. Rhoden, Jr. Visionary Philanthropist Award Honorees Barry and Debbie Abernathy, E. Smith Heating/Air 3: After devastating fire, Margeaux Strasburger, special education paraprofessional AHS celebrates support from Cobb County Schools 4: Cobb Community Foundation celebrates Koepka Award 2025 Nominees 5: KSU President Dr. Kat Schwaig awarded Cobb Chamber’s 2025 Town Center Citizen of the Year 6: Joyette Holmes, Georgia State Board Pardon and Paroles, awarded West Cobb Citizen of the Year 7: Christina Cummings, ED of Kidz2Leaders, accepts the Howard Koepka Collaborative Spirit Award presented by CCF

Match Magic: A Season of Extraordinary Generosity

Every year, Cobb Community Foundation equips nonprofits with tools, visibility, and matching funds to amplify community giving through this powerful holiday initiative. With $138K in matching funds and remarkable generosity, the Foundation awarded more than $1.7M to 27 nonprofits during Match Magic—far surpassing the $1M goal! No surprise, as Marietta still ranks #1 as the most generous U.S. city in GoFundMe’s Year in Help report. Pictured top fundraiser Car Care Ministry. carcareministry.com and cobbfoundation.org

Announcing Dancing With the Stars of Marietta

Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre announces Dancing With the Stars of Marietta 2026, a dazzling evening where local ‘community celebrities’ showcase their talents. Planned for February 7 at the historic Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre, this annual fundraiser supports the GMDT, which is having a lasting impact on dance education and performance. Serving approximately 130 local dancers ages 7-18, the Theatre provides professional training through award-winning and accomplished professionals, shaping the region’s cultural landscape. georgiametrodance.org

MUST Care Clinic Opens

MUST Ministries has long understood how health challenges create barriers that are hard to overcome. To meet this need, the charitable organization recently opened the MUST Care Clinic in Marietta, offering affordable medical and behavioral health services. Through a partnership with Eastchester Family Services, care is provided on a sliding fee scale. With more than 1.2 million Georgians uninsured, access to healthcare remains critical for family stability and longterm economic security for families statewide. mustministries.org

Photography by MUST Ministries

Cobb County Schools Seek to Fill Valued Positions

The Cobb County School District is hosting its 2026 CCSD Job Fair on Saturday, March 14, from 9 a.m. to noon at Truist Park, Third Base Entrance. Recognized by Forbes as a Best-In-State and National Employer, CCSD is known for strong leadership, competitive salaries, and a culture that values professional growth and student success. All K–12 schools will be represented, offering direct access to principals and district leaders across teaching, administrative, and support roles.  cobbk12. org/employment-opportunities.

Connecting Georgia Veterans Host Inaugural Golf Tournament

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, nearly 643,000 veterans live in Georgia, with more than 40,000 in Cobb County alone. Connecting Georgia Veterans is answering the call, linking veterans and their families to critical resources for employment, mental health, housing, and medical care. This impact was amplified through its inaugural charity golf tournament, hosting 40 golfers and raising nearly $15,000 for emergency lodging. Planning for next year’s event is currently underway.

Your North Georgia Real Estate Team

With deep expertise across North Georgia, including Blue Ridge, Morganton, Mineral Bluff, and beyond, the E+E Group is a trusted local resource for buyers and sellers navigating one of the region’s most dynamic markets. Whether discovering a mountain retreat, preparing a legacy property for sale, or uncovering hidden gems, the team delivers a seamless, well-guided experience from start to finish.

Known for a highly personalized approach, the E+E Group pairs local insight with thoughtful strategy to showcase each property’s true value and lifestyle appeal. From mountain neighborhoods to cultural hubs, clients rely on the team’s professionalism, market knowledge, and steady guidance to navigate every transaction with confidence and ease.

Your next move starts with the right guidance. Connect with the E+E Group to begin your journey!

A

VOICE THAT HEALS, A STORY THAT RESONATES

SLATER NALLEY

Before he ever stepped onto the American Idol stage, Slater Nalley sat across from his teacher with a song that helped her grieve, remember, and breathe again. That moment changed everything.

Music had always been part of Slater’s life, but it was never just a hobby. It was how he processed what it meant to be different, how he found purpose, and how he learned to stay grounded in who he was. While his peers were focused on sports, Slater was drawn to musicals, songwriting, and learning piano by ear. Being different was not always easy, but he kept showing up for the parts of himself that felt most true.

“I’ve had some really tough times that many of my peers don’t know about. Ones where I questioned a lot of things in life like what my purpose was and things no kid should really feel,” Slater admits. “I want my music to spread happiness, but have room for tears, too.” His goal is to put songs into the world that say, “Hey, you are not alone.”

Raised just outside of Atlanta with three younger sisters, Slater found comfort at his family’s property in South Georgia. That is where

he would hunt, fish, ride horses, and talk about life with his dad. In those quiet moments surrounded by red clay and wide open sky, he could imagine a future that made sense, even if others could not see it yet.

When Slater’s high school English teacher, Michelle Davis, lost her son Carter and his friend Natalie Henderson, she wrote something deeply personal and shared it with him. “When I asked Slater how he takes a poem and turns it into a song, I never imagined he would have interest in working on it and make it his own...all honoring Carter.”

Slater did more than simply turn words into lyrics. He listened, felt, and crafted Traces of You.

“To have my son live on in song is a priceless gift, one that breathes such joy in a place that is so sad. My family is eternally grateful,” Michelle shares.

She believed the message could resonate with others. “I imagined that anyone who had lost someone…whether they’ve passed or not, but a person no longer in their life, could relate to this song because we often search for those little fingerprints our loved ones left behind.”

Michelle is part of a group called Warrior Moms, bonded by loss and strengthened by faith. Their message is simple. Grieve like a mother. Survive like a warrior.

Healing also happens in quiet spaces. At Roswell Area Park on Woodstock Road, there is a memorial bench created to honor Carter and Natalie.

Michelle says, “In these spaces, we connect to our kids and pray for comfort. And like Slater’s lyrics, anyone sitting on this bench or listening to ‘Traces of You’ hopefully believes this to be true: ‘everytime I see a bird fly by, I’m reminded that you’re answering our prayers’ and for me...it is everything.”

Moments like these shaped Slater’s understanding of what music can do. It is not just about performing. It is about connecting.

As he continued writing, Slater started sharing songs online. One of his videos reached more than five million views. That opened doors, but it is the people behind the songs that keep him grounded.

In 2024, he earned a Top 5 spot on American Idol. His sound, influenced by Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, Sturgill Simpson, and John Prine, felt familiar yet fresh. His voice, soulful and raspy, seemed older than his years. That authenticity captured national attention.

He is now signed with Warner Music Nashville and Play It Again Music, the label founded by hit songwriter Dallas Davidson.

His first release, Foolish Pride, a song he wrote at just 15, is raw, emotional, and honest. It explores what it means to face your own flaws, to understand the part you play in heartbreak, and to be brave enough to admit it.

“At the end of the day, I am thankful to be here,” Slater says. “I am thankful that God has put me here and I am thankful that I have been in such a fortunate situation to pursue what I love to do, and I’ve met the right people.”

His story is not about chasing fame. It is about choosing purpose. And sometimes, that starts with one song and the courage to share it.

Stay connected with Slater’s music journey. Follow @slaternalleymusic on Instagram and TikTok. Listen to Traces of You and his American Idol performance on YouTube. His first official single, Foolish Pride, is set to release under Warner Music Nashville and Play It Again Music.

DISCOVER 13 HUB LANE – WHERE STYLISH LIVING MEETS BOUTIQUE CHARM IN ROSWELL & MARIETTA

Located in the Roswell MarketPlace and also at The Avenue East Cobb, 13 Hub Lane is a curated lifestyle boutique offering furniture, home décor, art, apparel, jewelry, gifts, and more (www.13hublane.com). Alongside home decor & furnishings, the boutique features a stylish selection of women’s apparel—from everyday staples to standout statement pieces. Transform your home & apparel with unique pieces and tailored design services.

Complimentary one-hour design consultations—with their talented design team from concept to completion to craft a space that fits your taste and personality.

13hublane.com

Roswell: 10800 Alpharetta Hwy, Suite 402, Roswell Avenue at East Cobb: 4475 Roswell Road, Marietta

A Family Affair

We spoke with Charlie Dallavale Jr., president of Painting Plus, to learn about why the company remains one of North Atlanta’s top general contractors.

CAN YOU SHARE MORE ABOUT A PROJECT, TEACHER, OR MENTOR THAT SOLIDIFIED YOUR CAREER PATH?

My grandfather was a siding contractor, so it started with the family. I did learn a lot of it through Walton High School's building construction program. Bob Overstreet was the shop teacher. We used to build kids' play forts and sheds, then sell them to a third-party company.

TELL US ABOUT A RECENT PROJECT YOU’RE PROUD OF. WHY DOES THAT PROJECT STAND OUT TO YOU?

We just wrapped up a really special project in Sandy Springs. The homeowners felt the exterior was dated and didn’t reflect the way they used the space. They wanted something more inviting and cohesive, especially in the backyard. We installed a brand-new roof and gutter system, replaced the siding, and coated the existing brick with Romabio masonry coating to give it a more natural finish. From there, we focused on outdoor living. We extended the back porch, built a screen room, added a glass sunroom, and created a new fireplace and seating area. It’s a place where you can have coffee, host gatherings, or sit around a fire on a cool night. It completely changed how the family lives in the house.

ARTICLE BY ANA MARKOSI

HOW DOES PAINTING PLUS STAND OUT FROM OTHER GENERAL CONTRACTORS?

We treat our clients’ homes as if they were our own personal property. What I would do for a relative, I'm going to do for a paying client. I'm very tight with my money, and I try to stay tight with their money too.

PAINTING PLUS HAS RECEIVED JAMES HARDIE’S PRESIDENT’S CLUB AWARD EVERY YEAR SINCE 2015. WHAT’S THE KEY TO DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS YEAR AFTER YEAR?

We’ve built a close-knit team that’s been together for years, and everyone takes pride in doing things the right way. They care about their reputation just as much as I do. We also follow the James Hardie specifications and ensure every detail meets their standards. On top of that, we communicate. We go over the project with the homeowner at the beginning, during, and at the end. If something needs to be improved, we fix it before we leave. We treat the home like it’s our own and treat the client like family.

WHAT TOOLS OR PRODUCTS ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT RIGHT NOW?

I’m excited about the James Hardie TimberHue collection. It gives homeowners the look of natural-stained wood siding, but without the maintenance of real wood. Anyone who has owned a real wood exterior in Georgia knows that between humidity, sun exposure, and carpenter bees, you’re constantly repairing, re-staining, and replacing boards. TimberHue solves that. It’s a fiber cement siding that’s pre-finished with a wood-grain stain appearance, so you get the character and depth of real wood. It doesn’t fade like a traditional stain, warp, rot, or attract insects.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WORK WITH YOUR FAMILY?

One thing I’m most grateful for in this business is the fact that I’ve been able to build it alongside the people closest to me. Not everyone gets that opportunity, and I don’t take it for granted. I’ve been working with my dad for more than 17 years, my brother for 15, and my best friend for 27. Working with family changes the way you approach a job. When your dad, brother, and closest friend are there with you, you don’t cut corners, because you’d be letting down the people who helped you get there.

ARE THERE ANY HOLIDAY TRADITIONS YOU FOLLOW?

We host a company Christmas lunch for everyone. At home, holidays are a big deal for us, too. My dad, brother, and I have kept a lot of the same traditions from when we were kids. We get together, cook, and swap gifts, but really, it’s about being in the same room the same way we are at work.

paintingplus.com

Time to Make New Memories

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Choosing Rings That Are Unmistakably You

THE ART OF FOREVER

ARTICLE BY EAST COBB CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF

Love is in the air. As you plan a wedding, you’re stepping into a season filled with excitement and meaningful decisions. Among them, selecting an engagement ring and wedding bands is one of the most personal—and lasting—choices you’ll make. These pieces are more than symbols of commitment; they are heirlooms in the making, worn every day and chosen to reflect a style that is unmistakably your own.

BEGIN WITH PERSONAL STYLE

Before diving into specifics, consider your lifestyle and aesthetic. Are you drawn to timeless classics or modern, architectural designs? Do you gravitate toward delicate details or bold statement pieces? Are you interested in custom designing a piece? Your everyday jewelry preferences often reveal the best starting point. While trends can inspire, the most enduring rings are those that feel authentic to the wearer.

As Jamie Kresl, Owner of Jewelry Artisans explains, “An engagement ring should feel like an extension of who you are. When clients start with their personal style, every decision that follows becomes clearer and more intentional.”

UNDERSTANDING METAL CHOICES AND THEIR COST

Metal selection plays a major role in both appearance and budget. Yellow gold remains a traditional favorite, offering warmth and durability at a more accessible price point. White gold delivers a similar look to platinum at a lower cost, though it may require periodic maintenance. Platinum, prized for its strength and natural white sheen, is often the most expensive option—frequently costing nearly twice as much as gold—but valued for its longevity.

Rose gold, known for its romantic hue, typically falls within a similar price range to yellow gold and continues to appeal to couples seeking a distinctive yet timeless look. Lifestyle, durability, maintenance, and comfort should all factor into the final decision.

DIAMONDS: BEYOND SIZE

When selecting a diamond, size is only part of the conversation. Cut, clarity, color, and carat weight all influence both beauty and cost. A well-cut diamond can appear larger and more brilliant than a heavier stone with a lesser cut. Clarity refers to natural inclusions that may not be visible to the naked eye but can significantly affect pricing, while color ranges from colorless to warmer tones.

Couples today also have more options than ever when it comes to diamond origin. Alongside natural diamonds, many are considering lab-grown diamonds, which offer the same brilliance and durability at a lower price point.

CONTINUED >

“An engagement ring should feel like an extension of who you are. When clients start with their personal style, every decision that follows becomes clearer and more intentional.”

"In my

20 years with Jewelry Artisans, creating the pieces alongside our clients has captured not only their hearts - but mine as well.”

At Jewelry Artisans, natural diamonds are sourced through the  Kimberley Process, an international certification system that ensures diamonds are conflict-free and responsibly traded. This process tracks each stone from mine to market, protecting communities and preventing the sale of conflict diamonds. As a result, our natural diamonds offer lasting value, authenticity, and the confidence they were sourced ethically and responsibly.

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds—chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural stones. Even trained gemologists require specialized equipment to distinguish them. The difference lies in origin, not authenticity. Natural diamonds form deep within the earth over millions of years, while lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments in a matter of weeks. Because of this, lab-grown diamonds typically cost 30–50 percent less, allowing couples to prioritize size, cut, or clarity while staying within budget. Both options are graded by the same standards, and the choice ultimately reflects personal values and desired budget.

DESIGN DETAILS THAT MAKE IT PERSONAL

Beyond stones and metals, design details bring the ring to life. Custom touches—whether a unique setting, mixed metals, or hidden elements—can transform a ring into a deeply personal statement.

“Custom design is about storytelling,” says Chief Designer Beatrice De’Irisarri, GIA G.G., Member N.A.J.A. and AJS Certified Jeweler. “Every line, setting, and detail should reflect the couple’s journey. When design is intentional, the result feels like a true expression of love. In my 20 years with Jewelry Artisans, creating the pieces alongside our clients has captured not only their hearts - but mine as well.”

WEDDING BANDS THAT COMPLETE THE STORY

Wedding bands deserve just as much thought as engagement rings. Some couples choose perfectly matched sets, while others prefer complementary designs that honor individual style. Engravings, subtle textures, or meaningful details inside the band can add an intimate layer to these everyday pieces.

Jewelry Artisans also offers a stunning collection of unique alternative metal wedding bands and inlays for both men and women - blending bold style with exceptional craftsmanship. Their innovative use of materials like Damascus Steel, Meteorite, and Tantalum creates one-of-a-kind rings that stand out from traditional designs. Whether you’re seeking a sleek modern look or a rugged statement piece, the company delivers durable, eye-catching bands that celebrate individuality and lasting commitment.

THE VALUE OF TRUSTED EXPERTISE

Choosing engagement rings and wedding bands is a meaningful process—one best guided by experience. A trusted jeweler helps couples navigate quality, cost, and design with clarity and confidence. More than a purchase, it becomes a collaborative journey, ensuring the rings chosen are beautiful, lasting, and deeply personal.

In the end, the perfect rings aren’t defined by trends or rules. They’re defined by intention. Thoughtfully chosen, they become enduring symbols of love—timeless, personal, and unmistakably yours.

Beyond engagement and wedding bands, for over 50 years Jewelry Artisans has welcomed guests to explore a curated world of design—from contour styles and vibrant colored stones to fine timepieces and exquisite estate jewelry. Rooted in craftsmanship and guided by a legacy of trust, this family-owned jeweler offers a thoughtful, personal approach to every milestone, ensuring each piece is chosen with confidence, care, and lasting significance.

jewelryartisans.com | 770-393-0321

HONORING BLACK HISTORY, PAST AND PRESENT

CELEBRATING RESILIENCE, LEADERSHIP, AND LASTING CONTRIBUTIONS SHAPING OUR SHARED HISTORY.

ARTICLE BY EAST COBB CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF

February carries a weight far greater than its 28 days. Black History Month, first established in 1926 as Negro History Week by historian Carter G. Woodson, was intentionally placed in February to honor the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two figures central to the abolition of slavery. What began as a weeklong observance evolved into a national tradition. In 1976, President Gerald Ford urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history,” and Congress formally designated February as National Black (Afro-American) History Month in 1986. Every president since has continued to recognize the month, affirming its enduring significance.

At its heart, Black History Month celebrates resilience, courage, and visionary leadership. Figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reshaped the moral conscience of the nation through nonviolent protest, while Rosa Parks’ quiet yet transformative act on a Montgomery bus in 1955 catalyzed the civil rights movement. Historians note that countless other pioneers—educators, activists, and community leaders—played essential roles in advancing civil rights and equity, reminding us that history is shaped by both celebrated figures and the everyday actions of ordinary people striving for justice.

Black entrepreneurs also transformed the economic landscape. Madam C.J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove to formerly enslaved parents, is widely recognized as the first self-made female African American millionaire in the U.S., building a successful haircare empire while empowering thousands of women as sales agents and philanthropists. Later, Reginald F. Lewis became the first African American to build a billion-dollar company in the 1980s through leveraged buyouts, while Robert “Bob” Johnson, founder of Black Entertainment Television, became the first Black billionaire in the 21st century after selling BET to Viacom. These trailblazers demonstrate that Black history encompasses both social justice and economic achievement, illustrating diverse paths to influence and prosperity.

Among the county’s most steadfast historical anchors is the William Root House Museum. Open year-round, the Root House provides insight into 19th-century life in Marietta, with a particular focus on the experiences of enslaved individuals, offering guided tours, educational programming, and research opportunities. These local sites ensure that Black history is not confined to February; it is actively remembered, studied, and honored throughout the year.

From national icons to local institutions, Black history is a story of firsts, resilience, and progress. In Cobb County, the past is present in museums, walking tours, and cultural programs, offering residents a chance to reflect on the courage, creativity, and contributions that continue to shape our community and our country.

Cobb County residents can engage with this rich legacy through a variety of local institutions. Marietta’s Black Heritage Walking Tour, a 1.9-mile selfguided route, highlights key sites such as the Old Zion Baptist Church, Lemon Street Elementary, and the United States Colored Troops section of Marietta National Cemetery, connecting visitors with the enduring impact of the local Black community. The Old Zion Heritage Museum, housed in an 1888 church built by formerly enslaved individuals, preserves artifacts, photographs, and rotating exhibits that illuminate faith, education, and leadership in Cobb County. Area libraries and cultural centers regularly offer family-friendly programs, lectures, film screenings, and exhibits celebrating African American history and culture.

A Curated View: Timeless London

THE TOP 10 IN TRADITION, TASTE, AND TIMELESS APPEAL

ARTICLE BY LISA PHILLIPS THOMPSON

Afternoon Tea

London. The name itself conjures images of all things quintessentially British. From the Royal family to Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and even to James Bond. The list goes on and on. Whether a first-time visitor or seasoned traveler, London’s mixture of culture, history, shopping and world-class dining ensures you won’t leave disappointed.

I have visited London many times, and it is on my list of top five cities in the world. I never tire of revisiting ancient sites, like the majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral (where a church has existed since 604 AD!), or gaining a new understanding of the modern era through spots like the Churchill War Rooms.

I love reconnecting with the ritual of afternoon tea (keep reading for my favorites — each offers the most British of traditions in its own distinctive style). I also enjoy grabbing a pint in historic pubs such as The Churchill Arms (founded in 1750) or rediscovering one of the many world class restaurants tucked away in the Foggy City.

On each visit I marvel anew at displays of the might of the British Empire in its heyday. Who wouldn’t feel small under Trafalgar Square’s Nelson Column, the 169-foot monument honoring the British war hero and Napoleon’s naval nemesis? I love exploring the centuries of history from the Roman occupation 2000 years ago through the medieval ages to the Victorian period and beyond. Even walking along a sidewalk and hearing the crisp British accent brings a smile to my face.

There’s simply too much to write, so I have narrowed my favorites to 10 must-do activities that will give you a taste of the city.

1. Visit the Tower of London. The very name brings a chill to your spine with stories of Anne Boleyn, the disappearance of the two Yorkist Princes, and many other gruesome incidents. In contrast, the Tower is home to the Crown Jewels and once served as a royal palace.

2. Discover the British Museum. Home to millions of artifacts, the museum is a must-see for culture and history lovers. Highlights include Egyptian mummies, the Rosetta Stone, and treasures from around the world.

3. Watch the changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. You can see them best from Marlborough Road, where they emerge from St. James Palace.

4. Stroll through Westminster Abbey.  This one site chronicles so much English history. Visit the tombs of Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots, along with about 30 English monarchs. Stroll through Poets’ Corner commemorating English writers from Chaucer to Dickens, and study the symbolism of the historic Coronation Chair, used for every British coronation since 1399!

5. Tour the Churchill War Rooms. This is London’s best place to learn about Britain’s WWII governance and to see how Prime Minister Winston Churchill kept the country afloat in the face of nightly air raids.

6. Experience the West End Theaters. London’s West End rivals Broadway for theater productions. Historic venues line the streets near Leicester Square and Convent Garden.

7. Absorb London’s creative energy at Convent Garden. The area is filled with boutiques, street performers, artisanal booths, and great eateries. It’s a perfect spot to grab lunch and enjoy some serious people watching.

8. Do so much more than just shop at Harrod’s. This world-renowned retailer is a must-see, especially for first-time visitors.  From souvenir trinkets to luxury shopping, from gourmet food halls to relaxing spa treatments, Harrod’s offers it all. Be sure to descend into the basement to visit the Baccarat Bar, my favorite spot for a cocktail.

9. Dine in style. Here are a few of my favorite restaurants:

• Bacchanalia, a lavish and beautiful Greek property in Mayfair.

“I have visited London many times and it is in my list of top five cities in the world. I never tire of going back to familiar sites, St. Paul’s Cathedral, or exploring new ones, the Churchill War Rooms.”

• Gordon’s Wine Bar, the oldest wine bar in the city, dating from 1600s, with underground caves.

• Min Jiang, a Chinese fine dining restaurant on the 10th floor of the Royal Garden Hotel, overlooking Hyde Park.

• Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, and sky-high dining with panoramic views of London hosted by a three-starred Michelin team.  10. Pause for a proper afternoon tea.  As promised, here are my favorites, each with its own style:

• The Berkeley, the spot for fashionistas, with tea is based on various fashion trends and icons.

• Sketch, a unique and fun location, with themed décor in each room.

• The Goring, The Dorchester and Claridges, best for a traditional afternoon tea.

• Fortum and Mason, when your shopping requires a break for tea.

From historic sites to modern marvels, London has it all. These favorites barely scratch the surface but will help you create an unforgettable visit to England’s capital city. As for me, I’ll be back soon!

lisaphillipsthompson@gmail.com at Thompson Explorations.

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER RUST

Plants that hold their own in the South when winter crashes the party

Still on the

Guest List

When winter temperatures in the South swing from sun-soaked tennis days to downright freezing nights, it can be tempting to ignore the outdoor garden altogether. But at Jennifer Rust Botanicals, that in-between season is exactly where our attention turns. Founded in East Cobb and serving families and businesses across metro Atlanta and around the country, Jennifer Rust Botanicals specializes in commercial botanical design and four-season subscription planters for clients—creating outdoor and indoor moments that feel intentional, welcoming, and beautiful year-round.

Foxglove

We’re big fans of foxglove for its large green leaves throughout winter, followed by tall, colorful blooms in April and May. Ideal for full-sun containers and beds alike, foxglove planted now will reward you with spring flowers before you know it.

Violas

We always choose violas over pansies for their superior cold tolerance. While they may look a bit peaked in February, violas are often the first to spring back to life—bursting with fresh blooms on sunny winter days and again in early spring when watered through the coldest weeks.

Autumn Fern

By February, autumn ferns can begin to look a little tired, but they continue to provide valuable structure and fullness in containers. They perform well in full winter sun and part-sun settings, quietly anchoring the arrangement.

Beginning in October, Jennifer and her talented team start planting winter container gardens for clients. As part of our design process, we keep a close eye on what performs beautifully during the coldest days of February—plants that hold their shape, their color, and their presence when much of the garden is resting in the same way we take note of plants in late August that weather a full season of sun and heat like champions. These are the plants we say get “invited back to the party” the following year—those we rely on again and again for both our commercial and residential clients, and the very same ones we return to in our own gardens.

JRB’S WINTER GUEST LIST: COLD-WEATHER CONTAINER PLANTS THAT SHINE

Boxwood

A perennial container favorite, boxwood provides year-round structure with only seasonal change-outs of smaller flowering plants. Whether shaped as a topiary (think a rounded ball perched atop a slender stem), a dramatic cone, or multiple shrubs in a long container, boxwood brings timeless elegance. While topiaries are an investment, they reward you with many seasons of beauty before eventually outgrowing their container.

Lamium

A lesser-known trailing plant and one of JRB’s favorites, lamium is often found tucked away in the ground-cover section of your local garden center (thank you, Pike’s!). Easily overlooked, this delicate variegated plant consistently surprises us with its resilience—holding its own in sunny winter containers and flourishing again in summer when moved to a part-sun location.

Euphorbia

No JRB list would be complete without euphorbia. We love its spiky foliage—available in reds, deep greens, and even rainbow tones—for cold tolerance and strong architectural form. Come spring, it delights again with striking yellow, almost spaceship-like flowers.

Rosemary

Rosemary is the perfect marriage of beauty and utility. With excellent cold and wind tolerance—and the added bonus of fresh cuttings for winter aperitif recipes—this sun-loving plant shines in both tall topiary forms and trails gracefully over the edge of containers.

Hellebores (Lenten Rose)

Hellebores enter the garden quietly in fall, but right about now they reward us with some of the most beautiful blooms of the season—right in the heart of winter. Perfect for shade beds and partsun containers, they are a reminder that winter still holds plenty of magic.

Jennifer Rust is the founder of Jennifer Rust

Botanicals, a company based in Marietta. JRB creates elegant botanical designs for commercial properties—including national hotels,  restaurants, and retail centers—and offers a seasonal subscription service delivering pre-planted outdoor inserts to homes across Atlanta four times a year. Spring subscriptions can be ordered now online for March delivery.

jenniferrustbotanicals.com

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