SOFU, GA September 2023

Trap Music Museum is an interactive experience that uses art to showcase the rich culture of trap music, one of the most popular genres of music today.

“TRAP MUSIC MUSEUM ISN’T JUST ABOUT MUSIC BUT ALSO ABOUT THE CULTURE THAT INSPIRES.”

404-367-0860 | TRAPMUSICMUSEUM.US 630 TRAVIS STREET, NO RTHWEST ATLANTA

HOURS : MONDAY - WENDESDAY: CLOSED

THURSDAY: 4:00PM - 10:00PM (SIP AND TRAP HAPPY HOUR)

FRIDAY: 4:00PM - 12:00AM | SATURDAY: 12:00PM - 12:00AM

SUNDAY: 12:00PM - 10:00PM

CHECK OUT OUR ESCAPE ROOM | OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Won't You Celebrate With Me?

Hey #SoFu!

I’ve been thinking silver thoughts. Coming down from the global party that was the multidate stop of our modern-day Queen Beyoncé and her Renaissance World Tour, I’m still celebrating my 25th year in my sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha. This got me thinking. We don’t celebrate enough!! On the occasion of our 100th issue, we had a serious party! And it made me think that every day holds something worth celebrating: a sweet piece of fruit, a visit from a red bird on a morning walk, feeling cute in whatever outfit you selected for the day, the last few warm days as autumn starts to peek around the corner, FOOTBALL!

It's September when we celebrate the birthday of our fearless leader, Michelle Taylor Willis!  So #SoFu, I hope you find something worth celebrating in this Style issue! Get into the feature on Forty Days of F.A.C.E. and David Manuel. Learn how to pick the perfect piece of art for your home with ZuCot Gallery in Castleberry Hills. And help me celebrate some local heroes that are giving back to our community! Cheers!

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis

michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Kyra Hatter | Kshatter@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stevie Peterson, Shandra Hill Smith

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Aric Thompson, Marc Maudlin, Allesa Tyus

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Hunter Richie

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL, EDITOR @SOUTHFULTONLIFESTYLE

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @southfultonlifestyle

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

That Serious He-Man Ball at True Colors

This play premiered at Jomandi Productions in 1988 and starred Kenny Leon, Tom Jones and Tony Vaughn. Times have changed, but the enduring power of friendship remains constant. Native Atlanta acting legends and Youth Ensemble of Atlanta classmates Neal Ghant, Enoch A. King and Eugene H. Russell IV light up the court in this powerful exploration of the meaning of "manhood." Tickets start at $25 at TrueColorsTheatre.org. Senior, student and group discounts available. September 19-October 15.

Barbara Lewis King Scholarship Foundation Presents Workshop

Strategies for Financial Success virtual workshop is scheduled for  Saturday, September 16.    Join Robert Bonner, money management expert and inspirational speaker with over 15 years of experience. Bonner brings his expertise and passion to the Barbara Lewis King Scholarship Foundation Inc., contributing to its mission of empowering students through higher education. The Foundation also presents a College Workshop Series.

For more information, visit the website  blksf.net  or call 678.390.4392.

Rooted at Horizon Theatre

In the small town of Millersville, plant researcher and YouTuber Emery Harris lives alone in a house in a tree named Mabel surrounded by plants that, other than her overbearing sister Hazel, are her only source of conversation. This warm-hearted comedy digs into the power of plants and the intriguing, human, and often hilarious idiosyncrasies of people. August 25-September 24. Tickets available at horizontheatre.com .

Want to be featured?

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

We are a premiere

in the South

Our primary goal is to care for our Patients from the inside out to achieve optimal wellness. We offer an array of customized services via a team of Industry experts dedicated to Patient satisfaction and well-being.

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Everyone loves a closet refresh and stylish scene, so we’ve rounded up some of our picks for the most sophisticated and fashionable destinations that will have you feeling renewed as well as ready for the camera. Cool styles and hot trends! Here are some of #SoFu and the surrounding area's most sophisticated destinations for fashion, dining, and creativity.

Our Picks for The Style Scene

BELLEMAY SALON STUDIOS: These salon studios in the heart of South Fulton house top-tier independent stylists and cosmetologists.

POPGURLZ EVENT VENUE: Your celebrations deserve the best!  Let Popgurlz provide décor at your location of choice or in their venue equipped for 70 guests.

STUDIO 270: An imaginarium for the creative community, this studio just outside of South Fulton can be rented for content creation, photo shoots, and more.

GOCHA’S TAPAS BAR: Restaurateur Gocha Hawkins is serving up “great food and great mood” with a luxurious dining area and 2,100-square-foot patio.

LENOX SQUARE: A premiere shopping destination since 1959, featuring 250 stores from Anthropologie to Zara.

Scan for more photos and the full list.

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Becca McCoy | @southfultonlifestyle

Becca McCoy is the Creative Director at SoFu Lifestyle.

When recovering from an injury or illness, physical/occupational therapy + adding the modality of aquatic therapy can be ideal. Water provides natural buoyancy to reduce gravity’s effects and avoid joint strain, yet water is hundreds of times more resistive than air, so water-based exercise in conjunction with landbased therapy provides extremely efficient and effective results.

ABOUT F.A.C.E.

Fulton County continues to be THE place the world looks to for fashion. David Manuel, director of arts and culture, proudly commands the world stage and is a connoisseur of fashion and art. Manuel’s style is more than attire—he is just as comfortable in a Miguel Wilson suit as he is in a comfortable crew neck. His style motto is “As long as you have a neat haircut and nice shoes, everything in between is all good.” It is his presence and his desire to see others succeed and the manner in which he executes programs with integrity and admiration from those around him that truly makes him stand out from the crowd.

If you had the honor of being amongst the people who attended the events last year, then you know any event signed off by Manuel is one not to be missed. Last year’s events included “Teen Talks” which featured a Q&A session with hip hop artist T.I. and media personality Kenny Burns. This year will be even bigger! Mark your calendars for F.A.C.E. 2.0: Forty Days of Fashion, September 14 through October 24.

Dine and Fash. Diners at a local restaurant will be among the very first to witness the creativity of Atlanta’s newest designers. They will be front and center for a fashion showcase at a “Brunch and Beat,” with the

aisle serving as a runway for models wearing designs fresh off the press. The event is an absolutely perfect way to introduce a local restaurant and up and coming talent to the community. Last year, the fortunate venue was Highland Bistro.

Met Gala Met Atlanta. Creators of the Met Gala should prepare to take notes at Faces of Fashion at the High Museum. The city of Atlanta will serve as the backdrop to this notto-miss event for beauty and style. Expect to see a stunning mix of couture, avant-garde, and sustainable fashions. Rub shoulders with well-known personality Lisa Nicole, of “Married to Medicine,” and Q from the R and B group 112, both of whom will host this high-profile affair.

In addition to physical creations, F.A.C.E. 2.0 will continue to merge very different thoughts. Collaboration Over Competition. Manuel believes in bringing groups together, thus accomplishing more than could be possible if going it alone. This year, two fashion students from Clark University will earn an opportunity to attend Paris Fashion Week and a workshop in the beautiful city of Paris, France. This will provide students an opportunity to share Atlanta style abroad in a city that launches brands globally.

The goal is for more students to collaborate with the organization. Both high school and collegiate future fashion creators, artists, and other creatives (authors, sculptors) will begin to see their dreams realized with the assistance F.A.C.E. offers. Among the students extended this invitation are enrollees in SCAD, Spelman College, and Atlanta Public and Fulton County high school students.

Public Art and Innovation. Manuel sees opportunity in everything, even when the focus should be on him. During a trip to Texas to claim the NACO (National Association of County Officials; naco.org) award for Arts, Culture, and Historic preservation, he experienced innovations like self-driving cars, holograms, and creating avatars that he envisioned increasing the impact F.A.C.E. would have in the Fulton County community. One such innovation is Future Labs.

Future Labs, located in the Underground, is the only government-run program where citizens can produce digital arts. Manuel states Future Labs is a safe haven for the community, offering opportunities to experience video mapping, animation, and the latest trends in technology.

F.A.C.E. (Fashion, Art, Culture, Education) is the brainchild of David Manuel, who created the initiative after a conversation with County Commissioner Natalie Hall.

Callaway Calls!

With summer break a mere memory for many students, countless parents are getting in that last hurrah before the new school year swings into full gear. For couples looking for an escape that can deliver on recreation and relaxation, Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia, makes for a quick getaway from the metropolitan Atlanta area.

At Callaway Gardens, parents can leave the routine behind by taking a scenic stroll along the property’s walking trails

or by taking a more active approach on Callaway’s hiking and biking trails. Callaway’s inland white sand beach, Robin Lake Beach, adds some splash to your fun in the sun with water tubing and other activities. The beach also includes Aqua Island that allows for racing across twisting bridges and fun on large trampolines or inflatable mountains. You rarely can get enough time in a private cabana, and you’ll have a chance at soaking in as much of that experience

before a few rounds of mini golf or some volleyball play.

For even more activity, jump on a cruiser and navigate around Callaway, including a visit to the property’s Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, a glass-enclosed conservatory that’s home to more than 1,000 butterflies. It’s fun—as long as you pack some patience—to try for the chance for one of the tropical beauties to land in your hand.

Relaxing can’t get much better than a spa massage—and at The Spa at Callaway

Gardens, it can take a romantic turn when you make it a Massage TWO Remember 50-minute experience for couples.

Finally, round out your day with the destination sure to serve up relaxation in The Lodge & Spa at Callaway Gardens. Balcony views of the lake, gardens, and woodlands give you reason to settle in overnight or just some wind-down time.

It’s all yours to do as you wish, before the day-to-day gets a shot to pull you away— that is, of course, until your next escape.

At Callaway Gardens, parents can leave the routine behind by taking a scenic stroll along the property’s walking trails or by taking a more active approach on Callaway’s hiking and biking trails.

HOLDING COURT WITH J.Q. SMITH

Jaquese “JQ” Smith is busy, and that is exactly the way she likes it. These days she’s still playing a position, but it’s off the court. The former National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball athlete and Liberty University graduate is now the owner of JQ Sports PR LLC. She founded JQ Sports PR LLC to help athletes (high school, college, and professional) and sports-affiliated companies create a memorable brand.

TRAVELING TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP

JQ decided to put her basketball shoes courtside and enroll at Liberty University where she earned a master’s degree in human services and communication. Initially, her family did not understand why she chose this route, but JQ had a bigger vision for her future. She volunteered in the community during her enrollment at LU which helped to carve the path and motivate her to hone in on working with athletes.

DEFINING THE BRAND

JQ believes that your personal brand is your authentic self. “It is important that you are true to who you really are; your audience will naturally gravitate to that part of you that clicks with them. Determine how you want to be perceived and know who your target audience will be.”

BRANDING DONE RIGHT, ACCORDING TO JQ

JQ pauses as she thinks about which athletes have gotten branding correct, and she determines, ultimately, that it is

LeBron James. James has a team much like the one JQ constructs for her clients. His fans are aware of his ability to command the court, but when he is not playing a game, he is a family man and remains abreast of politics and events that impact the community. LeBron believes in education and puts his finances toward building schools. This echoes JQ’s point to be true to yourself and your beliefs.

WARMING THE BENCH

The year 2021 introduced NIL (name, image, likeness) to NCAA athletes. NIL puts college athletes in a position to be paid for personal appearances, autographs, and endorsements. Here’s where JQ shines—she works with athletes who hope to have opportunities to generate money when they are not actively playing the game. Her natural talent to help a player navigate the tools needed to brand themselves and her vast connections with companies make it much smoother to potentially garner a partnership.

PUT ME IN THE GAME, COACH

JQ launched the podcast “Counted Me Out” in April. Each episode features a special guest. The topic will be suitable for both “Grinders,” those who constantly hear “no” or “not yet,” and “Do Rights,” those who have done the right things but haven’t hit their goals. Each episode promises to be interesting, so lock in and subscribe.

Those who are lucky enough to work with JQ soon find that she has all the tools to position them for greatness. Connect with her at jqsportspr.com

ART FOR EVERY ROOM

Incorporating art in the home is not only about adding interest and colors, but art also adds much needed character. Trained interior designers feel as though a room is not fully finished unless it has a piece of art. We have worked with interior designer Imani at Imani James Interiors on placing art in multiple spaces and she has offered suggestions on how to place art in every room. For some, the furniture and area rug come first, followed by art, but Imani insists that a great work of art can be the starting guide to a well-designed room.

FOCAL POINT

Displaying one single large-scale work of art is one of the simplest and most effective techniques to create a bold and dramatic statement. This particularly is the case when it comes to homes with high ceilings. A large statement piece can also be a focal point in a small room. The art will automatically serve as the focal point. It’s always a great strategy to consider the overall proportions and architectural details throughout the room when purchasing art. The art should be balanced by a large enough wall, cabinet, or console to create harmony in the space.

CAREFUL COORDINATION

Repeating colors throughout a room creates an overall cohesive color scheme. The shades in an area rug or pillow can easily be thought of when deciding on your next piece of art. Designers tend to use at least three main colors when designing a room. Allow those main color hues to be your guide and starting point. On the other hand, if you fall in love with a piece of art, let the art set the tone and vision for the entire room. The art will provide the direction for the color palette throughout the space.

MAKE IT PERSONAL

Choose artwork that speaks to you and your personal sense of style. If you have a favorite vacation destination, try to incorporate a piece that reminds you of that place. Artwork can also reflect your interests, heritage, and design aesthetic. Art should not only stimulate thought, but it can also elevate your environment and make you happy.

For more information, contact ZuCot Gallery at info@zucotgallery.com.

Imani James Interiors

Phone: 678.481.4890

Email: Imani@imanijamesinteriors.com imanijamesinteriors.com

Photographer: Marc Mauldin Photography, Inc. marcmauldin.com

Email: Info@marcmauldin.com

Phone: 770.377.7794

THE little BLACK DRESS

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straight-lined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

The Empress and Pearls

The Empress and Pearls was established in 2018 by Tamika L. Adams, executive director, as a response to the lack of representation of Black girls seeking or represented in non-traditional career fields. The need for exposure, training and personal development remains evident. Black girls benefit from ongoing mentorship opportunities.

“Our mission at The Empress and Pearls is to aid in cultivating the minds of girls of color through motherly guidance, mentorship and education. We highlight the symbolism of the pearl, a popular gem, rich in character and powerful in impact.” The organization serves girls ages 5-18 while exposing them to unique experiences that specifically focus on College and Career Planning, Etiquette Training, Entrepreneurship and Social and Emotional Learning. As a nonprofit organization, we are proud to serve our community and are committed to “Changing the World One Black Girl at a Time.”

For more info, visit empressandpearlsinc.com.

“Our mission at The Empress and Pearls is to aid in cultivating the minds of girls of color through motherly guidance, mentorship and education.

We highlight the symbolism of the pearl, a popular gem, rich in character and powerful in impact.”