East Cobb, GA September 2024

Your North Georgia Real Estate Team

889 Chestnut Ridge | Blue Ridge

4 Bedroom | 3 Bathroom | 2 Half Bathroom Offered at $$2,500,000

Welcome to 889 Chestnut Ridge, where luxury and natural beauty converge. This stunning property offers panoramic mountain and Lake Blue Ridge views, nestled in the national forest for ultimate privacy. Minutes from downtown Blue Ridge and in the heart of the Aska Adventure area, this 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home includes a newly finished apartment suite. Designed by a Parade of Homes Interior Designer, the meticulously renovated home features beautiful landscaping, turnkey furnishings, and ample storage. Highlights include two kitchens, a whole house generator, a security system, a safe room, and a yoga perch. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Hello Early Fall

With summer coming to an end and back to school activities in full-force, our team hopes this issue finds you in high spirits and full of energy!

September is all about style and we're excited to celebrate and explore. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the way we decorate our homes to the music we listen to, from the books we read to the way we carry ourselves in conversations, style permeates every facet of our existence.

Style is deeply personal. And it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, our passions and our desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, as it enables us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.

We have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together or forge entirely new paths, becoming trendsetters ourselves. We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or perhaps explore familiar ones. Cobb County offers so much from festivals to boutiques to places to live to uplift our spirits, boost our productivity and ignite creativity.

What I’ve found is that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. And that’s something no one on earth can duplicate.

Here’s to being uniquely you and an amazing school year!

LISA THIBAULT, PUBLISHER

September 2024

PUBLISHER

Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Catherine James | catherine.james@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Abby Ramsey | abby.ramsey@citylifestyle.com

MARKET AREA COORDINATOR

Rei Kaser | reikaser@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Mike Thomas | mike@mikethomasgroup.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | kary.slovin@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Catherine James, Sean O'Keefe, Sydney Kate Lewis

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Jolie Loren

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

Proverbs 3:5-6

at Round Trip Brewing - East Cobb

September 21-29, 2024

OKTOBERFEST MÄRZEN | PREZTELS | BRATWURST | MERRIMENT LEDERHOSEN | LIVE MUSIC

Open Every Day Offering Full Menu & Ten Beers On Tap Mon-Thu 11am-9pm | Fri-Sat 11am-10pm | Sun 12:30-8pm

| 678-909-5712 | www.roundtripbrewing.com

inside the issue

THE CHALKING OF MARIETTA SQUARE

EAST COBB’S INJURY FIRM

Launched in 1989, Cobb Youth Leadership provides students unique opportunities to learn about community, develop leadership skills, and interact with other high school students. Public, private, or homeschool students submit an application for CYL in the spring of sophomore year. Students participate in the program during their junior year of high school. For more information about Cobb Youth Leadership, contact Katie Guice at (770) 8592334 or kguice@cobbchamber.org.

Pictured: 2023-2024 Class - Public Safety Program Day

Cobb Foodie Week September 9-16!

Taste the best of what Cobb County offers during Cobb Foodie Week! This week-long culinary celebration hosted by Cobb Travel & Tourism highlights the endless dining options available in Atlanta’s Sweet Spot to both visitors and residents. From September 9 to September 16, food enthusiasts can redeem exclusive digital coupons to enjoy meal deals from more than 50 restaurants around Cobb County. Visit CobbFoodieWeek. com and secure your Cobb Foodie Week Meal Deals Pass!

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.

Key Benefits of BODY20:

+ Tones Muscle.

+ Reduces Fat.

+ Improves Strength + Endurance.

+ Minimal Strain On Joints.

+ Corrects Muscular Imbalances.

+ Optimizes Posture.

+ Relaxes Muscle Tension.

+ Enhances Sports Performance.

+ Maximum Results. Minimal Time.

+ Unleashes Your Potential.

Historic East Lake Golf Club Renovation Unveiled at Community Run

On August 8 the hundreds participated in the 2nd annual Run For East Lake 5K and Fun Run and enjoyed a sneak peek at the new renovated historic East Lake Golf Club, home to the TOUR Championship. The run supports the East Lake Foundation's mission to enhance community life through education, housing, wellness and economic programming. To learn more about upcoming opportunities to support the Foundation and visit East Lake Golf Club visit eastlakefoundation.org

Announcing the Blue Stone Arts & Music Festival

The 2nd Annual Blue Stone Arts & Music Festival is back! Friday, September 27 and Saturday, September 28 in Sandy Springs! The two-day family-friendly celebration includes multiple performing stages, Kids Zone, Artist Market with more than 60 vendors and a Blue Stone 5K-9 race. Festivities span across the City Springs District, encompassing City Green and Blue Stone Road welcoming over 10,000 people. Admission to the festival is free. To learn more visit sandyspringsga.gov/bluestone.

STYLE Spotlight ON COBB

PINEAPPLE PORCHJEANETTE CULLING

This charming shopping destination embraces southern hospitality and gracious living through style.

"The Pineapple is the symbol for hospitality and your porch is where we welcome people into our lives, our homes and our families. We wanted Pineapple Porch to be an intimate shopping destination where people truly feel welcomed," says Jeanette Culling, owner of the shop.

What started as an old dream finally came to life when Pineapple Porch opened its doors for the first time five years ago. Jeanette humbly recalls a time that owning a boutique was merely a dream and celebrates where she is today.

"Pineapple Porch has given birth to a sense of reluctant pride and quiet satisfaction stemming from the knowledge that I could dust off that old dream and turn it into reality with the help of lots of people along the way."

Jeanette strives to curate collections of classic, timeless pieces that will resonate with any customer's personal style.

When stepping into Pineapple Porch, visitors should expect a host of friendly faces and plenty of southern-inspired trinkets, gifts, home decor as well as apparel. Those looking to display their southern pride, whether it be at a tailgate, during a Friday night dinner party or on a night out, can find everything they need right here in Cobb County.

https://pineapple-porch.com/

JEANETTE'S STYLE TIPS FOR THE HOME

Every home should have a good vase, a few versatile serving pieces and a wonderful fragrance. If you’ve got those you’ll be ready for an impromptu gathering anytime. With our large selection of Italian blown glass vases, white unbreakable serving pieces, and several home fragrance lines, it's easy for anyone to set the perfect mood for any occasion.

ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES

Local boutique owners are redefining what style means to them

“ One of the main goals for Boho Trace has always been ‘to make every woman feel like she can express the best version of herself. ”

DEVON'S STYLE TIPS FOR YOUR WARDROBE

Wear what makes you feel like you! Nothing makes you shine from the inside out like the right outfit!

But when it comes to current trends, I’m excited to see leopard print coming back this fall! I think when done in the right way, it can be a really fun addition to any outfit. I’ll also always be a fan of knits for the fall and winter—especially co-ord sets!

BOHO TRACE - DEVON SAWYER

Devon Sawyer, owner of Boho Trace, is a rare gem that succeeded in accomplishing one of her greatest dreams in her twenties. Her brainchild, Boho Trace, consists of endless collections of flowy, feminine, bohemian pieces that encourage every woman to embrace their inner beauty.

As Devon puts it, "One of the main goals for Boho Trace has always been 'to make every woman feel like she can express the best version of herself'. And with that, she's succeeded.

She explains that the average shopping experience for customers is a little bit like stepping directly into her own closet. When selecting the pieces she wants to carry in store, she strives to choose a little something for every style preference while still making sure her own style is reflected throughout the store.

"It can often feel like a never ending shopping spree, but truthfully the most rewarding part of it all is seeing people so happy in the pieces they find. Receiving photos of them wearing our clothes to special events, weddings, birthdays and more is genuinely my favorite," says Devon.

https://bohotrace.com/

“ Style is an expression of who you are and how you feel on the inside. What we wear gives us confidence. ”

APRICOT LANE BOUTIQUE - LIESA HESS

Liesa Hess, owner of Apricot Lane Boutique Marietta, has loved fashion since she was little. When her three children were all finally in school, she decided to pursue here dream of owning her own boutique. Her passion for style and knowledge of trends in unparalleled.  What she loves most about her work are the people she meets, many of whom have become close friends.

She believes each of us has a unique personal style, which can define our personality and how others perceive us. “Style is an expression of who you are and how you feel on the inside. What we wear gives us confidence,” says Liesa.

She enjoys seeing new trends before they are out and traveling to shows to buy those perfect pieces. This season Liesa is excited about the color trends - seeing lots of berry tones and greens.

Her best piece of advice for women is to try something new and step outside of your comfort zone. “I’ve convinced many women who have visited my boutique to try something different and they’ve loved it,” says Lisa. “Be sure though it’s a piece you know you’ll be comfortable in,” she adds.

https://apricotlaneboutique.com/store/marietta/

LIESA'S STYLE TIPS FOR YOUR SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

Seek a boutique where you won’t feel overwhelmed or out of place. A relaxed atmosphere offers the time and space to browse different designs, comfortably try on pieces and ultimately make the perfect choice for you.

Look for an engaging atmosphere offering fashion consultants who love to engage with clients to help you find the perfect style, size and color.

CUSTOM DWELLINGS

ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES`

WHERE DESIGN AND BUILD ARE MARRIED

No, literally.

In 2006, husband and wife team Russell and Stephanie Ives merged their professional skillsets when they founded Custom Dwellings. Four kids and an impressive business venture later, Custom Dwellings is one of Marietta's only family-owned design and build firms. The husband/wife duo are the founding forces behind Custom Dwellings and each are masters of their craft. Leveraging Stephanie’s Architecture degree from Georgia Tech and Russell’s Business Management degree from Mercer - residential design meets general contractor with Custom Dwellings. Because of this perfect pairing, Custom Dwellings manages to keep the entire design and build processes in-house, without outsourcing any part of the project. This gives Stephanie and Russell more control over quality, budget and the entire build process.

"And besides, it's just more rewarding to see projects from the theoretical design stage all the way through to the finish line," says Stephanie.

For Stephanie and Russell, "in-house" refers to more than just the products and services that fall under the Custom Dwellings umbrella. It's reminiscent of the hours of design talk and project planning that happens under their roof in Marietta each week. For the couple, working together has its ups and downs, but the positives far outweigh the negatives. By working close to home they enjoy spending more time as a family with their four kids throughout the week, as they celebrate professional victories and tackle setbacks together. The way they see it, every conversation that happens behind the scenes, even the disagreements, create added value for their clients.

"We sometimes find ourselves 'hashing out' different perspectives on a job and hopefully save our clients from some of those unpleasant conversations with their spouse!" says Russell.

HOW IT WORKS

Whether you're looking to completely revamp your space or simply elevate a corner of your humble abode, Custom Dwellings will walk beside you in both. Each project begins with a client conversation to discuss project wants, needs, budget and expectations, and get to know Stephanie and Russell and their unique working dynamic. If it feels like a match, Custom Dwellings will prepare

and present a project proposal which includes the design fee and projected construction sum. This “Phase 1 Planning Agreement” begins the design process and, when ready, the client executes the "Letter of Intent to Build" to proceed to “Phase 2 Final Design and Project Build.”

From there, Custom Dwellings bids out the project to their team of trade contractors and suppliers before finalizing construction plans and costs. The construction phase begins with an on-site client meeting where the design and build teams come together and run through how everything will proceed one last time before the transformation begins. The team maintains constant communication through follow up meetings and check ins as construction progresses to ensure complete transparency and avoid confusion. Once construction is complete, the team will complete a final walkthrough along side the client to ensure satisfaction and keep communication lines open should any questions or a new future project arise!

THE LOWER ROSWELL ROAD PROJECT

With years of experience under their belts, the Custom Dwellings team has completed some pretty significant life changing home transformations. One being this kitchen and laundry/pantry renovation that allowed two parents and their special needs son easier mobility inside their home.

As Stephanie recounts, "We were able to completely reorganize the kitchen and widen the access to their garage along with creating a large walk-thru pantry they can route a wheelchair through as a more direct route to the son's bedroom and a place they can tuck assistive devices away out of sight when desired."

THE MOSSY WAY PROJECT

This renovation is a favorite of the team's for many reasons, the most substantial being that they had the opportunity to redo the entire home for the clients' to live and raise their children in. The result portrays Custom Dwellings design and build enhancements throughout.

With so many changes and such heavy involvement from the Custom Dwellings team, this project was in the design phase for well over a year. "We renovated the kitchen, primary and secondary baths, main living areas and all the bedrooms in the original home," explained Stephanie.

Custom Dwellings went on to receive two "Designs of Distinction" awards in 2023 for the project from the Georgia Chapter of the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

READY FOR A TRANSFORMATION?

When it comes to homeowners looking to refresh their living spaces, Custom Dwellings recommends working with an interior designer for small changes to soft goods and turning to a qualified build and design expert when bigger changes are needed.

"This is where Custom Dwellings brings all the skills to the table. With Architectural and Interior Designers who are NKBA credentialed specialists in Kitchen & Bath design on our Design Team and Professional Project Managers on our Build Team we provide a complete design/build solution for our clients."

To see more of their work and start planning your own home redesign, visit customdwellings.com

*Showroom by Appointment* We truly care about our clients and community. We are committed to providing an exceptional client experience and offer a warranty unique to the industry providing 100% satisfaction.

Let the Light In

Personalize Your Home's Lighting with Classic Blinds and Shutters

ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES

Whether you're one to throw open the drapes and let in the sunlight every morning or you prefer to match the lighting to the mood, Classic Blinds and Shutters has a window solution for every lighting preference. Shop the local showroom or hire them for an installation to enhance your space's practicality while keeping things stylish.

"Our goal is to be the premier window covering company in the Atlanta area and beyond by educating our clients on all window covering options and building relationships that last even after installation," says co-owner Andrea Zare.

Owners Andrea and Sean Zare have been working in the window covering business together since 1996 and haven't stopped since. Their passion and expertise combined with their brilliant partnership led them to open their own business and offer a more personalized experience to their loyal client base. While the business started with a "Shop At Home" concept that followed them up until 2009, they eventually encountered unprecedented growth and made the necessary decision to expand.

CONTINUED >

After over a decade of success thanks to their first showroom in Alpharetta, GA, Classic Blinds and Shutters expanded again to a second showroom in Marietta, where they reside, in 2023. All new customer journeys should start in the newly remodeled gallery showroom in Alpharetta where potential clients can see, touch and operate the entire line of shades, blinds, shutters and drapery. The team can also demonstrate the many automations and motorization features included with most window coverings nowadays to help customers make a choice that better fits their lifestyle.

Those who find something that fits will then begin the installation process, starting with a complimentary in-home consultation where Andrea and Sean will bring the samples to them. After choosing the best option for them and signing off on a quote, the client can sit back, relax and be hands off for the remainder of the project while the professional, certified installers take over.

The character of Classic Blinds and Shutters is to listen and understand all client needs, whether they be related to privacy, sun control, light efficiency, energy efficiency, child and pet safety or operational features.

"We want clients to feel comfortable when making a decision and investment in their window treatments," says Andrea Zare.

To start using your home's natural lighting to your advantage, contact Classic Blinds and Shutters by visiting one of their showrooms in either Marietta or Alpharetta, or visiting the website  classicblindsandshutters.com.

"We want clients to feel comfortable when making a decision and investment in their window treatments." - Andrea Zare.

PUTTING HOPEFIRST

“This is a tangible goal.  ALS isn’t incurable.  It’s underfunded.”

John Driskell Hopkins (Hop), founding and active member of the Zac Brown Band, was diagnosed with ALS in December of 2021. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease impacting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Progression of the disease can vary from person to person affecting movement, speech and breathing. ALS is 100% fatal.

In response to his life-altering diagnosis; Hop and his wife Jen were called to activism and in May of 2022, this unstoppable duo launched the Hop On A Cure Foundation.

Their mission of Hop On A Cure, “to support research to prevent, reverse, and cure ALS while raising awareness, building a compassionate community, and unleashing the healing power of hope,” is only achievable with your help! This is a tangible goal. ALS isn’t incurable. It’s underfunded. Through community-empowered, grassroots fundraising initiatives, there have been over 150 events held across the

country, and Hop On A Cure has granted in excess of $1.6 million - all directed toward finding a cure and defeating ALS.

Harmony for Hope: Defeating ALS, is Hop On A Cure’s newest fundraiser and it promises to be an incredible evening. Exquisite cuisine and exceptional wines set the tone for spirited bidding as guests vie for incredible, once-in-a-lifetime live auction prizes.

The finale of the evening is an intimate songwriter-in-the-round showcasing performances by Zac Brown, Clay Cook, Coy Bowles, Daniel de los Reyes, Bobby Yang, Lilith (Lily Costner) and other special guests. Each artist will deliver personal, memorable performances honoring their friend HOP and his fight against ALS.

Can’t join the gala? You can host your own fundraising event to benefit the mission of Hop On A Cure.  We can’t do this alone and we need your help ending ALS.

HopOnACure.org/events

Voted Cobb County’s Best Retirement & Assisted Living Communities 5 Years in a Row!

“We’rehonoredthatSterlingEstatesofEastCobbwasVoted BestAssistedLivingCommunityinMyEastCobbandthat SterlingEstatesCommunitieshavebeenrecognized“Best ofCobb”forRetirement,AssistedLiving,andMemoryCare. We’vebeenservingSeniorsingreaterAtlantaforover25+ yearsnow...Weinviteyoutocomeandexperiencewhatsets usapart.”MarshallGill,COO&Partner,SterlingEstatesSenior Living Communities

“WhatI’velearnedisthatallcommunitiestalkaboutwellness andsocialization...buttheydon’thavethewellnesscenter,green space,programmingandstaffingthatSterlingEstateshas.No onecanmatchwhatSterlingprovidesfortheirresidentsperiod. MyparentsarethrivingatSterlingEstates...betyourswilltoo.” ~ Susan S.

With Home Prices so High - Never Been a Better Time to Sell & Move into One of Our Sought After Rental Cottages

ENHANCING SCHOOL YEAR EXCELLENCE

Learn how to help your student experience a great school year

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The 2024-2025 school year has officially commenced, leaving students filled with excitement as to its possibilities and parents wondering how to ensure their children have an excellent school year. Supporting your student is understood, but what is the best way to support them through stress, balancing school and after-school activities, and other challenges?

“Find something you're passionate about and hone in on it. Make use of the opportunities that are given to you.”

Stress continues to be one of the most prominent hurdles for every student throughout the school year. Homework, tests and the endless amount of studying necessary to succeed can often cause a great deal of stress for a student. Kelsie Hood, the director of school counseling at Cornerstone Prep, suggests placing an emphasis on healthy coping habits. “Do what is ‘refreshing’ to your soul,” Hood advises. “Take time away from devices and engage in activities you enjoy. Whether it's taking a walk, practicing an instrument, journaling, or reading a book, take 20 minutes! It will be much more refreshing than scrolling through your screens.” By encouraging

students to engage in these habits, parents can help them build resilience against stress. Also, encouraging these habits before the stress of school becomes overwhelming makes it easier for students to utilize them effectively when needed.

In addition to healthy coping habits, it is important to remind your child that grades are not the ultimate definition of success. While students should be encouraged to acquire good grades, it is important to remind the student that a number does not define them. Some students are better test-takers than others, and it is important to remind the student not to compare themselves to others. All a student can

do is perform to the best of their abilities, and it is important to remind them that as long as they have done so, they are indeed successful. This helps eliminate the stress of being “perfect” in terms of being judged simply by a number.

To prepare for the rest of the school year, Hood further advises students to “Find something you're passionate about and hone in on it. Make use of the opportunities that are given to you.” This includes taking advantage of events such as the college and career fair Cornerstone Prep is hosting for the Acworth community on October 7th. Such events are designed to engage students in educational pathways and cultivate learning within the context of career opportunities. By participating in these events, students can explore their interests and gain valuable insights into potential future careers.

Enhancing the opportunity for an excellent school year for your student can range from assisting them with their homework, such as guiding them through a complicated math problem or proofreading an English paper, to encouraging them to engage in healthy coping habits to alleviate the stress homework and tests inflict. Ultimately, though, the best way to ensure an excellent and successful school year is to simply ask your student what kind of support they need and then support them in the manner in which they ask.

SENIOR LIVING WITH SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

“WE’VE BEEN REFERRED TO AS A CRUISE SHIP THAT NEVER LEAVES THE PORT,” SAYS TOSHA HOLBROOK, CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER.

Al Holbrook puts the "living" back into "senior living" with his robust approach to creating Holbrook, an active adult community with locations in Decatur, Acworth and Woodstock. Eight years ago, his vision to disrupt aging and create environments people couldn't wait to go home to came to fruition. Each of Holbrook's three communities were meticulously designed and strategically planned to encourage seniors to find and hold on to their zest for life.

"We've been referred to as a cruise ship that never leaves the port," says Tosha Holbrook, Chief Marketing Officer.

If that isn't appealing enough, the resort-style facilities, enticing activities and excursions, and regional trips will have you hooked. Perhaps the greatest aspect that sets Holbrook apart from other active adult communities is its dedication to making the final stages of life the very best. Each community has a Lifestyle Director in charge of planning daily activities, local excursions and regional trips. Keeping the calendar packed with community activities, small and large, gives everyone something to look forward to and keeps residents engaged.

ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES

"One of our great initiatives is residents checking of their ‘Bucket List’ activities," explains Tosha. "We did horseback riding, axe throwing, hot air balloons, ziplining and several jumped out of an airplane skydiving! All in their 80s!"

In addition to outings and excursions, Holbrook upholds residents' lifestyles in other areas such as fitness, dining, athletics and socialization. The WellFit personal training program is adapted to each individual's needs and goals so each fitness regimen is personalized. The luxury dining experience consists of a full service restaurant equipped with a full bar, a quick service restaurant, a private dining room and a winetasting room available for dining at all times. Residents frequently enjoy fitness classes and the indoor saltwater pool in addition to golf, pickleball, gardening and numerous card game clubs!

Local seniors interested in trying out the Holbrook lifestyle for themselves are in luck. Holbrook welcomes new and potential residents to experience a meal in the dining room during lunch or dinner and, if that's not enough, anyone is invited to stay in a guest suite overnight for a taste of the complete living experience. Suites are available for reservation just like a hotel and it's one of the nicest places in town to stay, so don't hesitate to try it out for a night!

Seniors interested in making the most of life right now should not delay reaching out and getting connected at holbrooklife.com. From there, they can explore the grounds, tour the one and two bedroom apartments or cottages and experience living life to the fullest every day.

Marsha Williams and her husband moved into Holbrook Woodstock in November 2021 and haven't looked back since. While they were reluctant to give up their house, they both agree Holbrook was the right decision for their lifestyle.

"Put aside the beautiful surroundings and the amenities, the people living here are terrific.. . .We feel like we have found an extended family. The staff are the best to be found anywhere, from the dining room to the spa to the front desk, they smile and greet you by name from the first week."

- Marsha Williams

GIRLSTRONG Empowerment Apparel Melds Fashion with Function

This global community of women and girls is connected by one message: Empowered women empower each other!

GIRLSTRONG Founder and East Cobb resident Lisa Kogel Crossley has created a brand of apparel dedicated to empowering women and supporting female-centric organizations. GIRLSTRONG embodies a style that encourages women to embrace their strength and confidence. Crossley sees it as her responsibility to use this platform to amplify the voices of women and girls Crossley does this by supporting nonprofit organizations that advocate for women and girls, and hosting events around the country where women can connect and feel inspired. GIRLSTRONG has recently partnered with Girls on the Run Georgia, a nonprofit organization that develops

essential emotional, social and physical skills in girls, to successfully navigate life experiences. On October 15, 2024, from 1-3 pm, GIRLSTRONG invites the community to a “Healthy Happy Hour” at Stellar Bodies Buckhead Court, in Atlanta. The reception will feature light bites and drinks. Event tickets are $35 and guests will receive a GIRLSTRONG T-shirt with net proceeds going to benefit Girls on the Run Georgia. Meet Lisa Crossley and Emmy-nominated TV Host Whitney Reynolds! Crossley invites women who value a healthy lifestyle and aspire to be role models for the next generation to join the GIRLSTRONG movement. GIRLSTRONG is a community dedicated to your well-being, built by women, for women.

GIRLSTRONG is an e-commerce brand; a community comprised of women and girls, media and influencers, athletes and beauty queens, moms and daughters and sisters– all connected by the same message: Empowered women empower each other. “Fashion plays a significant role in shaping our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us,” says Lisa Crossley. “It has been a powerful tool for female empowerment throughout

history, allowing women to express themselves authentically, challenge stereotypes, and redefine what it means to be both feminine and empowered.”

Crossley has an extensive background in the beauty, fashion, and entertainment industries. Her journey to founding GIRLSTRONG was guided by a desire to create clothing with a positive message- clothing that women could wear and feel inspired by every day. With more than 15 years of experience in the beauty and fashion industry, working for iconic brands like Vera Wang and Calvin Klein, Dior and LVMH, Crossley honed

her expertise in brand strategy and innovation. She saw an opportunity to make a difference. She envisioned a brand that women could relate to and connect with. According to Vogue, “It’s hard not to attach meaning and emotional weight to clothing; what you wear not only reflects who you are and how you carry yourself, but also who you want to be.”

Beyond fashion, Lisa ventured into the movie industry, working in national sales. Originally from NYC, Crossley moved to Florida with her family in the late 70s. She is now living in Georgia with her husband, Steve. A dedicated philanthropist, Crossley commits a portion of her brand's proceeds to women's charities, underscoring her commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of others. According to Forbes, “Build something you are passionate about. Being a female entrepreneur can be a rollercoaster, so you need the optimism, resilience and resolution to keep going.” Slogans that the company lives by are “Wear the Power, Feel the Power,” “The Future is Female,” or simply “GIRLSTRONG,” and as such you can find them all on a GIRLSTRONG T-shirt as well. It’s about more than just looking good—it’s about feeling unstoppable. “The lifestyle brand, GIRLSTRONG is all about showing up in our best capacity,” says Crossley. “Every woman deserves to feel strong and confident in every facet of life.”

For more information, visit: https://www.girlstronginc.com/.

MAKING DREAMS A REALITY

A premier cabinet, counter top and flooring company, passionately transforming and creating perfect kitchens, bathrooms and offices. With decades of experience, our talented team helps ensure unparalleled quality, time efficiency and solid budget management. Commitment to detail, distinctive designs and best-in-class service has led Kitchen Designs to experience monumental growth and success creating opportunity for continued innovation. One thing that has remained constant is the resolve of company founders to never lose focus on what matters most - our clients.

of Marietta Square THE CHALKING

PREPARE FOR MARIETTA COBB MUSEUM OF ART’S ANNUAL CHALKTOBERFEST HAPPENING OCTOBER 12TH AND 13TH, 2024

On the second weekend of October, between 80,000 and 100,000 people flock to Marietta Square for its annual Chalktoberfest, which combines eccentric chalk art with eclectic beer and wine selections to support the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art (MCMA). Prior to its formation, one of the MCMA board members attended the Sarasota Int'l Chalk Festival in Sarasota, Florida, a fundraiser for the Avenida de Colores 501c3 Cultural Arts Organization. This festival brought in 350,000 people and raised approximately 2.5 million dollars for its organization. When she returned, the board member shared her experience with Sally Macaulay, the executive director of MCMA, and instantly, Macaulay was inspired.

The event started as part of Marietta’s Art in the Park on Labor Day weekend of 2012. Unfortunately, rain began to pour, and all the chalk creations were washed away, colors instantly dyeing the streets. As a result, Macaulay concluded that she was going to start her own event the following year. Originally established as strictly Marietta’s Chalk Festival, Macaulay sought funds from the board of Downtown Marietta to compensate the artists for their work. One of the board members asked, “If you’re giving all the money to the artists, how are you making money for the art museum?” Ultimately, she wasn’t. At the time, beer festivals were starting to pop up around the country, and Macaulay had the idea to combine the two. As a result, Chalktoberfest was born in 2015.

Nine years later, 86 professional artists from all over the world and a Craft Beer Festival featuring 125 beers and 25 wines take over Marietta Square. This family-friendly event further expands to include food trucks, amateur chalk contests, arts and crafts vendors, a scavenger hunt for children, and live music. “I just love to see what the professional artists come up with every year,” Macaulay said. “There’s no theme this year, so submissions have been everything from Snow White to Old Master’s paintings.” Her favorite chalk creations, though? “The 3D pieces are so cool. We had a Georgia Bulldog two years ago that you could stand on, and it looked like you were in the air.”

While the underlying purpose of this event is to raise money for MCMA, its mission is to draw people together and build a community through the sharing of art. Macaulay said, “What is a better way to build community through art than to put it on the street?”

Since its establishment, Chalktoberfest has been honored as the Best Festival in Cobb County by Cobb Life Magazine in both 2016 and 2017, received the Mayor's Art Award from the City of Marietta and the Spot On Award for Best Event in Cobb County from Cobb Travel and Tourism, and has been named the Best Festival in Georgia by Georgia Business Journals for 2022 and 2023.

This event is rain or shine, but if it rains, Chalktoberfest has the “best rain plan out of anybody in the country.” Should rain be CONTINUED >

in the forecast, chalk artists are given a tarp. The second the first raindrop falls, Macaulay sounds a blowhorn to instigate the covering of the chalk art with the provided tarp, protecting and preventing color from dyeing the streets like in 2012. When the rain stops, artists immediately undo the tarp, roll it back up, and resume their creations.

This year, Chalktoberfest takes place on October 12th and 13th from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the Craft Beer Festival happening on Saturday, October 12th from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, and the community chalk competition occurring on Sunday, October 13th from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. While tickets must be purchased for the Craft Beer Festival, this community-building event is free to the public, allowing families to gather from all over and experience a unique and creative weekend unlike any other.

Make sure to purchase your tickets to the beer festival for $45 through the month of September and $50 at the door. Visit https://www.chalktoberfest. com/ or https://mariettacobbartmuseum.org for more information.

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