SOFU, GA December 2025

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Festive Season!

Hey Y'all!

The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds, and traditions that make this time of year so magical. I love Christmas! For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday cookies baking, or cherished family traditions.

In my family, one tradition we’ve held onto is the Annual Spelman Morehouse Christmas Concert. It's the perfect way to start the season and it's free! These moments remind me of the magic of the season and the importance of creating joyful memories with loved ones.

This month, we’ve curated a gift guide to help make your holiday shopping easier while supporting local businesses. We’ve also highlighted the best of what SoFu has to offer during the holidays, from events and entertainment to opportunities for giving back.

May your holidays be filled with love, peace, and the joy of giving.

Happy Holidays,

ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL, EDITOR @SOUTHFULTONLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Kevin Giles | kevin.giles@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Gabrielle Latimore, Jasmine Tiffany, Sean O'Keefe

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bob Mackey, Gerrell Farries for Yoshi the Shooter, Shenika Linen, Greg Mooney

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

HOME OF THE ULTIMATE STUDENT

lmhotep Academy provides each student with accelerated academics, which challenges them on and above their grade level and provides tailored academics to those students whose educational achievements may not meet the standard requirement.

Pre-Kto 8th Grade schedule A Tour!

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Renowned as the fastest-growing City in Georgia and the 4th fastest-growing suburb in the Nation, Union City combines the charm of an intimate community with the cultural, educational, and economic prowess of a large metropolis.

Nestled just minutes from the world's busiest airport, Union City stands proud as the residence of influential brands like Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED, ASOS, Amazon, Merecedes-Benz, Walmart E-Commerce, and Atlanta Metro Studios.

Experience the fusion of business and lifestyleReclaim, Renew, and Reimagine your future in Union City.

business monthly

Zora Neale Hurston Scholarship Tea With Z

The Zora Neale Hurston Scholarship Tea With Z is an annual fundraiser hosted by the Kappa Iota Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. in conjunction with the KIZ Foundation, Inc.

The event features live entertainment, traditional tea fare, the iconic “Hattitude Stroll,” and recognition of scholarship winners and community leaders. The event, themed Fans & Fedoras, will be held on February 22, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Carlos Ballroom located at Zoo Atlanta. Tickets available at https://www.tickettailor.com/ events/zetaphibetasororityinckappaiotazetachapter/1925342.

Tunnel to Towers Foundation Pays Off House for Gold Star Family in SoFu

In observance of Veterans Day, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid, in full, the mortgage for the Gold Star family of fallen Army Staff Sergeant Lloyd Perryman Sr. SSgt Perryman enlisted in 1998 as an Intelligence Analyst and transitioned to the Georgia Army National Guard in 2003. He deployed to Kuwait, Iraq, and Kosovo. While working at Fort McPherson in Atlanta, he met his future wife, Elaine Perryman and had two children, Lloyd Jr. and Llynise. In 2021, SSgt Perryman tragically passed away from a service-connected illness.

Visit T2T.org to learn more.

Alliance Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol” Returns to the Coca-Cola Stage

November 15 – December 24, 2025

Adapted by David H. Bell

Directed by Amanda Watkins

Based on the original directed by Leora Morris

The Alliance Theatre’s beloved production “A Christmas Carol” returns to The Coca-Cola Stage with its Broadway-scale adaptation, told with beautiful live music and an all-star cast.  Join the Alliance Theatre for one of Atlanta’s most treasured holiday traditions.  For tickets and information, call 404.733.4600 or visit www.alliancetheatre.org/christmas

Scan to read more

Specialized Support

Comprehensive Breast Care at Piedmont Fayette

Piedmont Oncology treats more breast cancer patients than any other healthcare system in Georgia. With a highly specialized, multidisciplinary team of breast care experts, we ensure our patients have easy access to personalized, compassionate care every step of the way.

Whether you are seeking to lower your risk of developing breast cancer, detect breast cancer early, or need treatment of either cancerous or non-cancerous breast disease, Piedmont Fayette is committed to providing high-quality, patient centered care, close to home.

Our Comprehensive Breast Care Team

Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnostics Services

Multidisciplinary Team of Breast Cancer Experts

• Fellowship-trained Breast Surgeons

• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons

• Sub-specialized Medical and Radiation Oncologists

Patient-centric Support Services

• Breast Cancer Patient Navigation

• Genetic Counseling and Testing

• Lymphedema Therapy

• Oncology Social Work

• Oncology Nutrition Services

• Rehabilitation

Mya and

ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE LATIMORE

The Family That Bakes Together at Cakin' with MnM

Maci Nelson

What began as a Sunday baking lesson among sisters Mya and Maci Nelson and their father, Quentin Nelson, aka “The Cake Doc,” has blossomed into a successful business, Cakin’ with MnM. Coming from five generations of bakers in his family, Quentin made a mission to pass down the baking tradition to his daughters, starting them in the kitchen as young as 3 and 5.

By 2018, the Nelson family’s Sunday ritual included Mya and Maci baking with their father while their mom, Michelle Nelson, filmed each lesson. When the world shut down in 2020, they turned their weekly ritual into a blooming business. Mya and Maci launched Cakin’ with MnM, creating their own signature cake mix

subscription boxes to pair with the virtual baking classes they began hosting for kids. Each subscription box includes the cake mix, a decorating kit, and access to live or prerecorded classes. Participants of Cakin’ with MnM can choose between a full baking class lasting about 90 minutes and a shorter decorating-only workshop.

When pandemic restrictions were lifted, Mya and Maci took Cakin’ with MnM mobile, hosting birthday parties and Jack and Jill events, with themed classes like their favorite, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles decorating class.

“It was for a 5-year-old little boy’s birthday party and those kids were hilarious; we had a good time with them,” says Mya.

As young Black entrepreneurs, Mya and Maci find immense joy in inspiring other children.

“I want to be a teacher and do theater but also continue teaching kids how to bake.” They both plan to keep the family legacy going with Mya adding, “That’s the plan. I want to open my own bakery one day, but I also want to be a lawyer.”

Now 16 and 13, Mya and Maci are taking the reins of their business even more, writing their own scripts, making creative decisions, and ideating

their class themes. As they continue to grow, Cakin’ with MnM hopes to distribute their signature cake mixes more widely, in the long term, to become a national brand with their products in major retailers.

With these “Amazing Kid Bakers,” all is possible as they live by their personal mottos: “Life is what you bake it” (Maci) and “Bake the world a better place” (Mya).

Learn more at CakinWithMNM.com or @Cakin_with_MNM on IG.

Blue

EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN

JAMAAL BARBER SOLO EXHIBITION

NOVEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 13TH

OPEN FRI & SAT 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

1802 CONNALLY DRIVE, EAST POINT, GA, 30344

TICKETS

THE PLACE EVERYONE Belongs

Across Fulton County, libraries are doing far more than lending books—they’re building bridges. Libraries serve as gathering spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to learn, connect, and grow.

From story time circles filled with laughter to lively book clubs and technology workshops, the 34 Fulton County library branches are cornerstones of community life. They are where a retiree learns to use a tablet alongside a teen exploring coding, and parents discover early literacy programs that spark a love of reading in their children. As seen in SoFu Lifestyle, the Library Dads movement started at the Wolf Creek Library. These shared experiences create the kind of everyday connections that strengthen neighborhoods.

Libraries also play a vital role in equity and access. With free internet, digital tools, and educational resources, they help close the information gap—empowering residents to pursue opportunities, find jobs, and stay informed. In a county as large and diverse as Fulton, that accessibility means everyone has a place to belong and to build a better future.

But perhaps the most powerful thing libraries offer is community itself. Local branches host author talks, small business workshops, cultural festivals, and civic forums that celebrate the voices and stories of our region. They’re spaces where creativity thrives and dialogue deepens, a reminder that knowledge and connection go hand in hand.

Our libraries continue to evolve to meet the needs of a changing county. Whether it’s a child discovering their first favorite book, a student finding quiet focus, or neighbors gathering for a shared cause, the library stands at the center of it all—proof that the best stories don’t just live on the shelves; they happen every day within our community.

One Book, One Read is the Fulton County Library System’s countywide annual read-along that includes book clubs, writer workshops and a culminating conversation with the author. It brings family, friends, neighbors, and community members together for a shared experience, building community, and encouraging literacy skills. The 2025 featured title was Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson.

Learn more about Fulton County’s libraries at fulcolibrary.org To help keep these vital programs and connections thriving, consider making a gift to the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation at afplf.org/donate

Le Dîner en Blanc Atlanta

On October 4, 2025, Atlanta transformed into a vision of white for Le Dîner en Blanc, the city’s most anticipated secret soirée. This year’s event was nothing short of magical. It was a celebration of community, culture, and creativity that truly captured the essence of this global phenomenon. Guests arrived at the undisclosed location, stepping into a curated space filled with music, laughter, and timeless all-white style. Everywhere you looked, there was elegance, from the perfectly pressed white attire to the string melodies of a violinist dressed head-to-toe in white.

For special guests, catering by Proof of the Pudding elevated the experience even further, offering a delicious spread that included fresh vegetables, fish, tender beef, and a selection of fine wines. With Chambord as the national sponsor, the evening’s toasts were nothing short of luxurious. As tradition goes,

participants raised their glasses, waved their white napkins in the air, and officially began a night to remember.

The atmosphere was alive with photo ops, dancing, and laughter. Attendees had the opportunity to enter a floral crown contest, with the winner receiving a $2,000 prize, honoring the spirit of Le Dîner en Blanc events around the world. More than just a dinner, Le Dîner en Blanc is a movement, one that brings people together to celebrate life, style, and spontaneity in the most elegant way possible. As the night ended, it was clear that Atlanta didn’t just host the event, it embodied it. A special thank you to host Michelle Taylor Willis, a true media entrepreneur and powerhouse, who did a phenomenal job setting the tone and helping lead this international event with grace, vision, and flawless execution.

the

With over 25 years of experience in financial services, we have built strong relationships with lenders both locally and across the U.S. This extensive network allows us to connect our clients with the right financing solutions to help their businesses grow and succeed.

We take a consultative approach to learning about your business and tailoring a lending solution to fit your specific needs.

Call us today to explore your financing options!

ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE ST. REGIS ATLANTA

COMFORT & JOY

Holiday Traditions Shine Brightly at The St. Regis Atlanta

This holiday season, no one celebrates with more grace and grandeur than The St. Regis Atlanta. Here, timeless sophistication meets festive magic at the city’s most distinguished address. Every moment feels intentional, every detail a gesture of joy. The result is a season wrapped in warmth, elegance, and timeless memories longing to be created.

The lobby glows in breathtaking splendor, anchored by a magnificent Christmas tree artfully designed by Jan Haedrich and MME.Mink. Trimmed to perfection, it shimmers as both a celebration of the holiday spirit and a tribute to the 120th anniversary of St. Regis. Each ornament catches the light, reflecting a legacy of refinement and the artistry that defines the hotel. It is more than decor; it is an opalescent wonderland where tradition and imagination meet beneath the soft, glowing canopy of the season.

Just steps away, the Alpine-themed Astor Chalet transforms into a holiday shopping paradise with Lucy’s Market offering a curated selection of gourmet food, fine wine, bespoke ornaments, and inspired gifts; each one chosen with the same care that defines St. Regis. It’s a place of discovery and

delight, where the joy of giving catches the spirit of the season, with a little something for everyone on the list.

As evening falls, the timeless sabrage ritual feels even more luminous; a flash of steel, a cascade of bubbles, and a toast to the season. This daily ceremony captures the essence of The St. Regis through celebration, precision, and the effortless poetry of hospitality.

True fine service at Christmastime is an invisible art. It lives in graceful anticipation, where every gesture carries warmth and wonder. Whether you choose to raise a glass of holiday cheer at

the famed Atlanta Bar or linger over a decadent Christmas day brunch, The St. Regis is your destination for holiday fantasy. From the Holiday Tea with Santa in Astor Court to Santa tuck-ins and bedtime storytelling, every experience is designed to whisper: your memories are cherished.

Christmas at The St. Regis Atlanta is more than a season; it is a symphony of warmth, belonging, and quiet joy. It’s where hospitality becomes art, and celebration becomes timeless. Here, amid candlelight and golden glow, the holidays shine brightly with heart, draped with elegance, heritage, and wonder.

Festive Flair

Ways to Make Your Home Sparkle for the Holidays

The holiday season has a way of inviting magic into our homes—the scent of pine, the glow of candlelight, and the sparkle that turns casual spaces into cozy retreats. At Design Duo Interiors, we believe that festive decorating should feel as beautiful as it does festive. It’s not about adding more, but about adding layering and thoughtful details that bring warmth, texture, and personality to your space.

Here are five designer-approved ways to make your home feel festive this holiday season.

1. DRESS THE TABLE WITH PERSONALITY

Your dining table sets the stage for connection—it’s where laughter and stories unfold. Start with beautiful linens as your foundation, then layer in texture with mixed metals, greenery, and unique glassware. A few well-placed candlesticks and simple garland can transform an everyday table into something unforgettable. Don’t forget the little details like handwritten place cards or tied napkins that add a personal, elevated touch that says welcome.

ARTICLE BY NATASHA BROWN, PRINCIPAL

DESIGNER OF DESIGN DUO INTERIORS

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DESIGN DUO

2. LAYER LIGHTING AND CANDLES

Nothing creates ambiance like lighting. Instead of relying on overhead fixtures, think twinkle lights, and clusters of candles. The flicker of candlelight instantly softens a room and adds that cozy, golden glow that makes guests want to linger a little longer. Try mixing candle heights or pairing taper candles with low votives for visual balance.

3. THINK BEYOND THE TREE

The Christmas tree may be the star of the show, but festive décor can extend beyond the living room. Add subtle touches throughout your home—a sprig of cedar on the entry table, or ornaments in a bowl. Even the smallest spaces can share in the season’s charm when you add thoughtful, unexpected details.

4. THE RETURN OF THE BOW

This year, the bow is having its moment and it’s not just for gift wrapping. From velvet to silk, bows are a timeless accent making their way into interior styling. Tie them onto garland, glasses, vases, or even around candleholders for a soft, sophisticated finish. They bring a sense of nostalgia and playfulness while keeping your décor elegantly on-trend.

When it comes to festive decorating, the goal isn’t perfection, it’s warmth. It’s about creating spaces that invite people in and make them feel at home. Whether you love a grand, sparkling display or something simple and refined, let your décor reflect your personality and your joy.

At Design Duo Interiors, we believe that the most beautiful spaces are the ones that tell your story and the holidays are the perfect time to let that story shine.

Natasha Brown is the Principal Designer at Design Duo Interiors, known for creating detailed designs and stylish spaces. Our philosophy is simple- if you can dream it, we can design it. We specialize in full home design, home renovations, custom build design and home staging. Learn more at our website  www.designduointeriors.com.

2 3 4 5

Christmas Shop Local! Shopping?

ARTICLE BY ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL AND MICHELLE TAYLOR WILLIS

It’s gift giving season! Here in SoFu we love to shop local! Going to pick up that special gift at Heart 2 Home right beside Publix is quicker than Amazon! Get it TODAY! And we love our local authors and entrepreneurs! Here are a few great selections for everyone on your list!

1-5: HEART 2 HOME GIFTS

1. Mary Square Magnetic Cake Stand or Wreath with  Interchangeable Bows: $9-$60

2. For a Pink and Green ChristmasRosy Wreath PJs and wine glasses or tea cup:  $60 & $18

3. Tan Faux Fur Throw Blanket: $60

4. Man Bar Tobacco Spice Kit for the guy on your list: $20-$50

5. Personalized Charm Bar to create a personal gift: $8-$60

6. DUKE AND DAME SALTED CARAMEL WHISKEY

Discover the mesmerizing taste of our award-winning salted caramel whiskey. Our blend is a handshake between aged bourbon and corn whiskies in perfect harmony with 100% natural salted caramel to provide just enough sweetness. With only 1 gram of sugar per serving, you can enjoy it without any guilt.  Founded in our community by Chima Burey and Amani Macaulay, make this a part of your holiday giving this season! DukeAndDame.com $37

7. CHILDREN’S BOOKS BY LOCAL AUTHOR K.

A. MULENGA

Forty titles, each with an important life lesson attached to it. Beautifully illustrated pages that come to life with vibrant colors, heart-warming stories that teach valuable lessons about friendship and empathy. Perfect for children aged 2-8 and delightful bedtime story options.

These books will make wonderful additions to any child’s library and provide countless hours of joy and inspiration. They are available for purchase through Amazon; the author's website, Draft 2 Digital; and Gumroad.

To learn more about the books, please visit https://kamulenga.com/shop/

8. LOCALLY MADE CUSTOM SORORITY AND FRATERNITY GIFTS

Ready to design your own Pearlfect Paddle? Visit our Instagram page @pearlfectpaddlesllc and complete the Google Form.

You’ll be asked to provide your contact information, basic color preferences, Greek organization, year pledged, chapter, and any special design details you’d like included.

Pricing:

• 24-inch paddle — $125

• 36-inch paddle — $225

• 48-inch paddle — $325

9. SEA MOSS BATH SOAK

A luxurious bath soak infused with detoxifying mineral salts, moisturizing milks, and invigorating botanicals. Handmade and formulated to cleanse, relax and restore the mind, body, and spirit. Allnatural blend of organic essential oils and plant-based ingredients. Free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and artificial dyes. $22 https://ninety2reasons.com/

10-12: STOCKING STUFFERS! NOT LOCAL BUT SMALL AND CUTE ITEMS FOR ANYONE!

10. Scentco Holiday Smencils 5 pack https://www.amazon.com/ScentcoHoliday-Smencils-Scented-Pencils/ dp/B002WEJNX2/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=scentco%2Bholiday%2Bsmencils&qid=1700071561&sr=8-1-spons&sp_ csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1

The Holiday Smencils® 5-Pack includes 5 of our gourmet scented pencils that are made from 100% recycled newspapers. Each Holiday Smencil® is a No.2 graphite pencil and is packaged in its own recyclable plastic freshness tube that includes a collectible character top cap! You will receive one each of the five scents: Candy Cane, Mint Cocoa, Snowberry, Sugar Plum, and Gingerbread. $8.99

11. Old World Christmas Mini Gingerbread House Ornament https://oldworldchristmas.com/products/ mini-gingerbread-house-ornament Gingerbread Houses depict one of the favorite traditions of the holiday season sweets! The popular custom of creating elaborate little houses made entirely out of gingerbread, candies, and sweets, started years ago and continues as a favorite holiday activity today. $9.99

12. Old World Christmas Mini Candy Cane Ornament https://oldworldchristmas.com/products/ mini-candy-cane-ornament

In 17th century England people were not allowed to celebrate Christmas. So a candymaker invented the candy cane. Shaped like a shepherd’s crook to symbolize Jesus, it has three thin stripes to represent the Trinity, and a larger stripe to represent the life Jesus gave up for us. $9.99

Do you know of more locally made items ready to go under the tree? Message us on FB SoFu Lifestyle or IG @sofulifestyle1 10 11 12

Warm Holiday Wishes from the Kevin Pierson Agency

As the holiday season fills the air with joy and togetherness, the Kevin Pierson Agency would like to extend our deepest regards to all the wonderful families in our community. Wishing your home joy, love, and warm holiday moments.

Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey. We look forward to serving you in the coming year and wish you a prosperous, healthy, and happy New Year!

Fromourfamilytoyours,HappyHolidays!

Like A Good Neighbor, State Farm is there.

Care with You in Mind.

Suffering with symptoms from menopause? Call Prestige Healthcare. Let us help!

www.prestigehealthcareatlanta.com 404.346.7100 5835 Campbellton Rd. SW Ste 301-302, Atlanta, Georgia 30331

Biloxi Bound

PLAY, PAMPERING, AND PERFORMANCE ARE ALL WITHIN REACH AT THIS MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST GEM

ARTICLE BY SHANDRA HILL SMITH

When you travel to Biloxi, Mississippi, you can count on relaxing views of the Mississippi Sound, entertainment, and activities for the whole family, plenty of good eating, and more. Biloxi’s Beau Rivage Resort, a roughly 5.5-hour drive from Atlanta, offers all of the above and proved the ideal getaway for my family of three.

Whether you’re going for a swim or lounging near the outdoor pool, you can expect an escape all by itself, which is only enhanced by views of the large body of water surrounding this spacious property.

Indoors, who would have imagined the level of fun and games you could experience with your loved ones trying your hand at golf, basketball, bowling, and other games at MGM Golf! It’s definitely a time for making memories as you take part in a hyper-realistic gaming experience—from golf challenges to soccer to hunting and baseball inside simulator bays for up to eight players. While playing, you can enjoy drinks and small bites to eat before perhaps then moving into LUX Lounge for live music, drinks, and more food. One surprise for this mom: seeing the level of skill (and enjoyment) her 17-year-old demonstrated while target shooting, playing golf, and bowling, with her dominating against Mom and Dad in the least likely of those games—hunting—we would have predicted.

Having completed more than $130 million in upgrades, including $55 million toward room remodels for its 1,727 guest rooms and suites, Beau Rivage includes an award-winning and inviting spa and salon, where you’ll find massage options along with services for hair, face, and nails. The resort stands out for its vibrantly decorated lobby, which during the month of December includes touches that reflect Christmas and the holiday season.

Beau Rivage also is home to 13 restaurants—including the opening of a new seafood restaurant, Coraline’s—13 retailers, a championship golf course, a 1,550-seat theatre, and more. In December, the theatre will draw audiences for “A Christmas Story: The Musical” based on the bestselling book and beloved holiday film.

Whether coming for a show or a stay, once here you’ll never have to leave this AAA Four Diamond resort—with entertainment, so many choices for good eating (and plenty of it), as well as play and pampering all under one roof. It’s indeed a Mississippi Gulf Coast gem. For more info, visit BeauRivage.com