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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2021 PUBLISHER

We received a warm welcome from Michael Farquharson and his team at The Hotel Colee Autograph Collection in Buckhead where we shot this month's Women in the Arts Feature.

Jim Newman | jnewman@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Sue Collins | scollins@lifestylepubs.com

Hello friends,

MARKE T ARE A ADMINISTRATOR

Darce Richardson | darce.richardson@lifestylepubs.com SENIOR ACCO UNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@lifestylepubs.com

MY MOTHER, EMILY, INTRODUCED ME TO POETRY, AND SO MUCH MORE.

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Enjoy this verse and if you do, pick up a copy of Savage Beauty : The Life of Edna St.

Molly Collins | molly.collins@lifestylepubs.com

Vincent Millay. This month, we're featuring women in the community who have been successful and aren't afraid to say so! We salute their bravado, heartaches, hard work and creativity. Happy Mother's Day to all the mamas and happy May to all the women who nurture. It's our nature!

ACCO UNT E XECUTI VE

Colleen Nilan | colleen.nilan@lifestylepubs.com COPY EDITOR

Stacy Conde AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sean O'Keefe

Sue G. Collins, Editor

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Scott Areman, CatMax Photography, Christy Lee

The courage that my mother had Edna St. Vincent Millay 1892-1950

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

The courage that my mother had

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Went with her, and is with her still:

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Rock from New England quarried;

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

Now granite in a granite hill.

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

The golden brooch my mother wore

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

She left behind for me to wear; I have no thing I treasure more: Yet, it is something I could spare. Oh, if instead she’d left to me The thing she took into the grave!—

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That courage like a rock, which she Has no more need of, and I have. ON THE COVER Johns Creek artist Ali

Leja is a self-taught, instinctual painter

who carefully weaves her personal story

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

into modern, upbeat paintings in hopes of spreading positivity and happiness. Share this magazine with your bestie and post a photo of the two of you on our Facebook page @JohnsCreekLifestyle. 4

Johns Creek Lifestyle | May 2021

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsCreek

Proverbs 3:5-6 Johns Creek Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johns Creek 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 Johns Creek Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2021

FEATURES 20 Mood Changers Ali Leja's paintings light up a room

24 A Score for the Next Generation Women in the arts share insight from their hearts

34 20

34 Best of Realtors Buying or selling, look no more

24 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Local Limelight

Open House

24 Locals Only 30 Hometown Hero 34 Locally Owned

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LIVE OUTDOOR MUSIC AT WEST MILFORD FARM West Milford Farm special events venue is located in East Cherokee County, north of Milton. The farm is named for Lightner West, who built the original home and barns around 1900, and Robert and Cleo West, whose family has lived on the property since the 1930s. West Milford Farm specializes in rustic chic and Bohemian weddings and receptions. Its historic landmark buildings and 50+ acres of pastoral views draw couples and photographers from all over Metro Atlanta. “Fridays at the Farm” concerts

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feature live shows with local talent from March through September.

SCHOOL NEWS Taylor Road Middle School seventh grade social studies classes, in conjunction with Student Leadership Johns Creek, began a "One Well" project to build a water well in Idanre, Nigeria. The kickoff was launched on World Water Day, March 22. River Trail Middle School eighth grade student Isabel Sang placed third in Division 3 for the 2020-2021 Georgia Association for Pupil Transportation Poster Contest. Two Johns Creek High School alumni created an app called “Upbeat

Music”

that

synchronizes

numerous individual virtual recordings to align perfectly and present as an ensemble. The Chattahoochee High School Varsity Quiz Bowl Team won the Georgia Academic Team Association Award in March.

WELLSPRING CELEBRATED 20 years ago today Wellspring Living was founded. Whether you have been here from the beginning or supported them more recently, you have made an important impact in transforming the

5805 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek, GA 30097 208 Pirkle ferry Rd., Cumming, GA 30040 678-474-4917 | smilegeorgia.com

lives of those at risk or victimized by sexual exploitation. Celebrate transformation today and keep pressing on to see more hope and healing for those they serve. Become a recurring

Johns Creek Lifestyle | May 2021

giver at $20 a month to support muchneeded educational resources for youth programs, such as GED prep books, encyclopedias and dictionaries. Give a one-time gift to help support the basic essentials of community program participants, such as food and household items. Double your impact: If you sign up to become a recurring giver, your first donation will be matched by their friends at A Happy House. Don't miss this opportunity to start a meaningful rhythm of giving. Double your impact today. WellspringLiving.org

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4 with food trucks on board: A Little Nauti, The Patty Wagon, King of Pops. 7 Sharp 9, an Atlanta-based cover band performing a mix of pop, rock, country, and dance from the 50s to today, has been rocking crowds across the country since 2000. With a focus on 80s and 90s hits, they blend high energy, positive vibes, and fun to create an experience that people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy together. Doors open at 6 p.m. Music begins at 7 p.m. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Concerts are rain or shine!

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Johns Creek Lifestyle | May 2021

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IT IS ONE THING TO DREAM, IT IS ANOTHER THING TO MAKE YOUR DREAMS A REALITY, ESPECIALLY WHILE FACING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC. Nothing has ever stopped Varsha Kalburgi, owner of Lion’s Den Beau Monde Cigar Bar and Restaurant, and it seems nothing ever will. Varsha spent 25 years in Bangalore, India, where she was a clever student of her mother’s cooking. “I have always been inspired by my mom’s cooking skills. She just knows how to make any dish ever so tasty,” says Varsha. “Her ability to cook has taught me to cherish my heritage.” The flavors of garlic, onion, peppers, mint, oregano, and cumin were Varsha’s culinary playground and the ultimate foundation for what would become her greatest adventure to date - a true home away from home for her guests.

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CONTINUED >

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

Johns Creek Lifestyle | May 2021

From Basic to Breathtaking We’ve Got You Covered “THANKS TO OUR PATRONS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS WE KEPT GOING.” “I envisioned a place for people in the community to gather and enjoy the pure indulgence of a classy cigar bar with a relaxed atmosphere, creative craft cocktails and delicious culinary offerings.” The cocktail menu boasts smoked bourbon, special cognac and gin-based cocktails. The small plate menu is globally inspired. “The pandemic almost took away my dream even before I started to make it work,’ says Varsha. The grand opening was March 17, 2020 and just a couple of days later, a total lockdown was announced. “Thanks to our patrons and community members we kept going.” One year later,

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everyone at home. Creating functioning outdoor space with optimal

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

usage has been huge. For example, solving drainage and erosion problems, while creating solid entertaining space. Stack stone or veneer fireplaces add cozy areas to warm up by a fire. Having the options of gas or wood-burning opens so many functions for firepits and places. Large patios with space for games like corn hole and giant Jenga have been popular. Using stone surfaces, such

Johns Creek Lifestyle | May 2021

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as natural flagstone or modern pavers provide a decorative, solid area to breathe fresh air or entertain guests. With so many great product choices homeowners can achieve a clean modern space or stick with natural rustic look for mountain and lake homes. JCL: WHAT DESIGN SOLUTIONS ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT FOR 2021? M AND B: Drainage is always a problem in Georgia. A great solution for swampy areas or places with no where to send water is to create a rain garden. Rain gardens are small or large swells or bermed beds with low spots installed in poor draining areas. Downspouts and drains can be directed to flow into a rain garden. The garden is planted with low maintenance plants that love wet feet or at least tolerate it. Another great trend is stepping

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CONTINUED >

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OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

Johns Creek Lifestyle | May 2021

live in your world, relax in ours... outside of the common privacy practice using dog eared fencing or trees/shrubs. Privacy panels, living walls, and decorative accents can be made from unique materials or designs. These panels can be used on a deck edge, as an entire wall bordering property lines, and in the middle of gardens or yards for mediation or quiet spots. A newer stone product we are excited to incorporate are large cut stone slabs like Oklahoma slab stones. They’re great for long steps, fireplace mantels, or bridges. They also make a unique patio surface for a modern western look. JCL: WE NEED INSPIRATION! M AND B: For $10k you could freshen up shrubbery, add rubble strip borders to define beds, install boulders, or a small patio with a fire pit. Depending on material choice and current grade, and size of yard, you could do all listed items.

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MOOD CHANGERS ALI LEJA'S PAINTINGS LIGHT UP A ROOM

ARTIST ALI LEJA IS A SELF-TAUGHT, INSTINCTUAL PAINTER WHO CAREFULLY WEAVES HER PERSONAL STORY INTO MODERN, UPBEAT PAINTINGS IN HOPES OF SPREADING POSITIVITY AND HAPPINESS. With her myriad of subjects, Ali aims to make her audience smile. At her Johns Creek studio, Ali works with mediums of charcoal, oil, pastels, acrylic and ink to create her signature abstract expressionistic pieces. Large, quick brush strokes create enchanting bees, foxes and other creatures. Radiant portraits of friends on the beach, ladies and still lifes come to life with texture, color and shape. The former school counselor has loved art her whole life. After serving her community for 20 years, Ali decided that she needed a change and explored painting as a creative outlet. She spoke with several artists about their process, and they all said the same thing: “paint every day.” Taking their advice, Ali painted every day for three years. Her talents developed quickly, and she started producing meaningful works of art. Ali finds her inspiration in the beauty of nature around her, whether it’s the birds she sees in her yard or the flowers and trees she sees on a walk around Johns Creek.

ARTICLE VIRGINIA GRIMES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ALI LEJA 20

Johns Creek Lifestyle | May 2021

Celebrating 20 Years

of young at heart! “Her ta lents developed

q u ick ly, a nd she sta r ted produci ng

mea n i ngf u l

works of a r t.”

Let’s start living life again! Contact Us TODAY and schedule your personalized tour of our beautiful community!

Ali and her family have lived in Johns Creek for the past 13 years. She loves how quiet, well-kept and family-oriented

INDEPENDENT LIVING | PERSONAL CARE

the community is. Ali says, “It is a safe community and a wonderful place to raise children.” She and her husband initially chose to relocate to the northeast Fulton community because of the amazing school system and family-oriented community. At the time, she was a high school counselor at Northview High School and wanted her children to also be a part of that school system. Ali shared her love of art by taking her children to the Johns Creek Arts Center when they were young. For more than 15 years, the arts center has provided affordable quality arts education to the Johns Creek community. It offers adult CONTINUED >

3315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth, GA 30096

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parcatduluth.com CityLifestyle.com/JohnsCreek

MOOD CHANGERS (CONTINUED)

Art by Ali Leja of Johns Creek

and youth classes in a variety of mediums as well as afterschool programs and camps. Ali’s family also has wonderful memories of attending the Founders Day parades. The event began in 2007 and has since become an important tradition for Johns Creek residents. With thousands of participants, the parade features local high school clubs and bands and colorful floats from local businesses, organizations and neighborhoods. Some of Ali’s favorite spots around Johns Creek include restaurants such as Napoli 1 Pizza, Pampas Steakhouse and Noosh Kitchen. Like many others, Ali finds stress relief in shopping. “I’m obsessed with the great finds at Johns Creek’s TJ Maxx as well as All Inspired Boutique,” she says “I also enjoy working out at Lifetime Fitness. It’s a great place to meet people.” To see more of Ali Leja’s artwork, visit AlilLejaArt.com or follow her on Facebook or Instagram @alilejaart. Commissioned portraits and art pieces are available by request. 22

Johns Creek Lifestyle | May 2021

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LOCALS ONLY ARTICLE JOHNS CREEK LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY SCOTT AREMAN

WOMEN IN THE ARTS SHARE INSIGHT FROM THEIR HEARTS Shot at Hotel Colee Autograph Collection, Buckhead's newest hot spot boutique hotel, oozing with thoughtful design, energizing color, and a tidy urban sensibility. Hotel Colee, 3377 Peachtree Rd NE. Marriott.com Make-up by Becca Bussert, Aillea Beauty. Skincare with clean, cruelty-free, and earth-friendly ingredients. 3796 Roswell Rd, Atlanta. Aillea.com

LINDA BRILL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, JOHNS CREEK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA As executive director of the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra, I work with the board and the maestro to oversee all operations of the orchestra. This includes fundraising, ticket sales, strategic planning, financial oversight, event planning, and more. I would advise that a career in arts leadership is a labor of love. It’s a field for risk takers, dreamers, collaborators, and fearless decision-makers. You must maintain a passion for the product and the impact that it has on your community. Stay in touch with the reason you entered the field. If you are a musician, keep playing your instrument! Your love of the art form will inspire you to propel your organization forward. Sustaining the arts requires advocacy, determination, and out-of-the-box thinking. You have to unapologetically champion your cause in a sea of those that are equally worthy, particularly now. Be brave, maintain your sense of humor, and continually look for friends in your community who share your passion.

Johns Creek Lifestyle | May 2021

A Score for the Next G e n e r at i o n

N ATA L I E D E L A N C E Y MANAGING DIRECTOR, CITY SPRINGS THEATRE COMPANY Dear Future Women Arts Leaders, While all of our paths to a career in the arts may look different, our reasoning and purpose is usually similar: passion, creativity, talent, connection. I believe any career in the arts demands strength, hard work, and vision. In my experience, I would offer you this advice: 1) Know your purpose and what you hope to achieve. 2) Think big and never underestimate your capabilities. 3) Enjoy every moment. There will be challenges. Success may not come easily, but it will be worth it when it does! In my role as managing director at City Springs Theatre Company, I have the pleasure of overseeing the fundraising, operations, and finances of a 3-year-old organization that is bold, professional, and focused on serving the greater Atlanta community through Broadway mainstage musicals and high-quality arts education training. Keep dreaming, working hard, and connecting with likeminded people. Break a leg!

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsCreek

LOCALS ONLY (CONTINUED)

JENNIFER WRAE MCCANN ART EDUCATOR, AUTREY MILL MIDDLE SCHOOL, CERAMICIST, AND AERIALIST Dear Future Women of the Arts, Be persistent in your goals, yet patient with yourself. Through all the detours your journey takes you on, remember that! These detours are full of irreplaceable experiences. They are not taking you from your path. They are your path. Along the way, stay curious, ask questions, and continue to create or appreciate art in any capacity possible. In creating, accept that perfection is unrealistic. Value imperfection for its uniqueness and beauty and roll with it. This motivating force is what will carry you further. Also, remember that as an artist (curator, architect, dancer, designer, etc.), you are a communicator. Seek to understand others so that you may better reach them. Be humble, be grateful, and don’t forget to laugh. Be true.

Johns Creek Lifestyle | May 2021

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favorite thing is a chemical peel.

BRANDI: I had my first treatment at the Graivier Center in 2015,

Joe and Brandi live in Alpharetta with their two boys. I grew up

I believe. Katy (who is fantastic) did an IPL treatment on me to help

here, but moved back to the Alpharetta area about four years ago.

with sun damage and discoloration on my face. My mother was a

I am currently working as the Regional Director of OD Recruitment

client so I was able to see firsthand the benefits of the treatments

for a large vision company. Connie has lived for the last 8 years in

she was receiving. After the first treatment, you are hooked.

Crabapple with her husband John.

CONNIE: I started with the Graivier Center several years ago. I had a friend that never seemed to age. She never had that “I had work done” look but she looked as if she was always fresh and wellrested. I finally had to ask, “What is your secret?” I think my first treatment was a facial and I have been looking to the Graivier Center for guidance ever since. I always thought I would be one of those people who “mature gracefully". I have turned out to be one that goes kicking and screaming. WHAT MIGHT OTHER MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT WHAT HAPPENS AT THE GRAIVIER CENTER? BRANDI: The Graivier Center offers a clean, professional, and private experience. Pam is always so helpful. The staff listens to your concerns and provides a customized plan for you. It is not a onetreatment-fits-all feeling. YOUR FAMILY IS CELEBRATING A VERY SPECIAL WEDDING. CONGRATULATIONS! WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FACIAL BEFORE A SPECIAL OCCASION? BRANDI: I spoke with Katy about a month before our wedding. Trying to plan a wedding during a pandemic brings many challenges and playing catch up on skin treatments is one of them. Katy advised me honestly on the best options given the timing. We decided that a hydrafacial followed by dermaplane the week of the wedding would be the best option for me. I am acne prone, so

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