FEATURING MCLEMORE RESORT, MERITAGE RESORT & SPA, LAGRANGE, AND MORE
“Ihavespentthemajorityofmyadultcareerservingpatientsinamedical capacity.Inowunderstandthegreatabilityofthebodytoovercomemany healthchallengeswhengiventherighttoolstoheal.Ifyouarereadytogetoff thesymptomaticrollercoasterandnotonlylookgood,butfeelgoodandthrive, thenputyourphoneuptotheyellowQRcodeandscheduleanappointment withmetoday!Seeyousoon!” -Kennedy
We live in a world that values productivity and efficiency, where every moment seems to be mapped out and planned. I’ll admit, I fall into this mindset sometimes too, thinking that the only worthwhile activities are those that can be measured, calculated, and optimized. But the truth is, a life that is too structured is missing something vital— space for exploration.
We need room for discovery, for trying new things, for being a beginner. Sometimes, it’s in those unplanned moments where connections are made, memories are created, and trust is built.
One of my favorite things is putting away social media and Yelp and just walking around a new city. I've found gorgeous independent bookstores, bakeries, statues, and parks without ever searching the internet.
In recent months, I’ve been reflecting on how my family spends our time together. We’ve realized that our happiest moments often come when we step away from screens and routines. Our "adventures" don’t always involve grand trips—they could be as simple as playing a board game on the patio, trying out a new trail, or exploring a new part of town to find a quirky little café.
This issue is all about giving yourself permission to explore—whether it’s a spontaneous trip, a new hobby, or simply making time for those unstructured moments with the people you love.
Let’s make space for the unexpected and the unexplored, and remember that it’s often in these moments that the richest connections are formed.
Happy exploring!
SARA HAGEN, EDITOR
PUBLISHER
Marco Rossi | marco.rossi@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Sue Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sara Hagen | sara.hagen@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sean O'Keefe, Sara Hagen, Sue G. Collins, Jamie Fraser
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
We offer a full slate of veterinary services from surgery with state of the art monitoring to your first puppy/kitten visits with training advice. We handle complex medical cases, perform dental cleanings, tooth extractions, and general wellness care. We are locally owned with experienced doctors who can customize our services to make the right treatment plan for your pet.
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ARTICLE BY JAMIE FRASER | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MCLEMORE RESORT
Just under two hours north of Atlanta lies a mountaintop escape where ambition, heritage, and hospitality converge into one unforgettable experience: McLemore Resort. Perched on the edge of Lookout Mountain, McLemore is not just a destination— it’s a revelation for those who crave the soul of the sport and the spirit of luxury. McLemore invites you to rise above the everyday and reconnect with what matters most, from championship-level golf to a serene spa, soaring views, and world-class service.
Not just a course, but two of them: The Highlands and the soon-to-be-unveiled The Keep, each distinct and designed with intention. The Highlands course, renowned for its cliffside 18th hole—repeatedly named one of the top 20 finishing holes in the world—is a strategic marvel. Meanwhile, The Keep is in preview play, with its formal debut set for August 2025. It has already drawn national acclaim, fueling global intrigue.
Crafted by Rees Jones and Bill Bergin, The Keep represents a new chapter in course architecture: vast, windswept, and breathtaking. Utilizing the natural topography, it balances challenge and accessibility, featuring wide fairways, elevated tees, and a layout that rewards strategic play. “We call it an aspirational golf experience,” says EVP Charlie Rymer, a two-time All-American at Georgia Tech and former PGA Tour pro. “It’s designed to test the best and welcome newcomers with open arms.”
The course’s turf also reflects McLemore’s bold innovation. The Keep is the first full-course in the world to feature Stadium Zoysia—a luxury turf renowned for its exceptional performance and aesthetic appeal. “The ball sits up like it’s on a tee,” Rymer notes. “It’s beautiful to look at and a dream to play.”
Rymer, who has played and broadcast golf around the globe, helped shape The Keep’s strategic design. “You’re not on an Easter egg hunt for your ball,” he adds. “You’re constantly making decisions that are exciting and thoughtful.”
At Cloudland Hotel, guests are greeted with “The Great Reveal”—a grand entry that opens to a sweeping vista of McLemore Cove, a national historic district bordered by Pigeon Mountain. It’s a moment that stops visitors in their tracks.
While golf may be the crown jewel, Cloudland is the soul of the mountain. Opened in 2024 as part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, Cloudland blends comfort, cuisine, and curated experiences. Guests are welcomed into a grand lobby framed by expansive views that seem to pause time.
The hotel has quickly garnered national praise and featured in Southern Living, HGTV, and USA Today, placing it among the Southeast’s most sought-after escapes. Its design is modern yet grounded in the surrounding landscape, inviting guests to rest and indulge.
At the hotel's heart is Auld Alliance, McLemore’s signature dining experience. A tribute to the historic bond between France and Scotland, this upscale restaurant offers a menu that combines European culinary sophistication with Southern warmth. Whether it’s a milestone or a spontaneous weekend, Auld Alliance leaves a lasting impression.
Guests also enjoy The Creag, McLemore’s vibrant restaurant and cocktail bar, a tranquil spa, a heated cliff-edge infinity pool, and terraces that invite yoga at sunrise or drinks at sunset.
Cloudland is also becoming a premier destination for luxury weddings, private events, and executive retreats. With panoramic views, multiple venues, and a seasoned team, events here feel timeless. One recent wedding saw a bride walk down an aisle framed by wild mountain laurel, with the blue haze of Pigeon Mountain behind her. As vows echoed across the valley and guests toasted beneath the stars at The Creag, it became more than a celebration—it became a memory etched in the mountain.
“We see couples from Atlanta checking in on a Friday,” says Burton. “By Sunday, they feel like they’ve been gone a week. It’s that immersive.”
Even the name McLemore is steeped in heritage. The resort overlooks McLemore Cove, named after the Scottish McLemore family who settled the region in the 1700s and married into the Cherokee Nation. Storyboards in the clubhouse share the life of John McLemore, a Cherokee Chief and war hero. “Our logo is a Celtic cross blended with the bloom of a Cherokee dogwood,” Rymer explains. “It symbolizes our past and the land’s sacred nature.”
The Keep’s name also carries meaning, evoking fortified castles, ancient Christian symbols, and the idea of protecting what matters most. “There’s soul here,” says Burton. “This isn’t just a course or a resort—it’s a place that grounds you.” McLemore’s 20-year plan is shaping a lasting legacy.
Whether driving up for a weekend tee time, booking a romantic escape, or gathering the family for a mountaintop reunion, McLemore offers something rare: space to breathe, beauty to absorb, and an experience to remember.
It’s time to elevate your hospitality experience. It’s time to discover McLemore.
THAT CULTURE HAS ATTRACTED NATIONAL ATTENTION, WITH FEATURES IN GOLF DIGEST, GOLFWEEK , SPORTSILLUSTRATED , AND A VISUAL SERIES FROM BARSTOOL SPORTS. “BEFORE THE KEEP OPENED,” SAYS BURTON, “WE WERE CHASING MEDIA. NOW THEY’RE CHASING US.”
RELAXING IN THE HEART OF WINE COUNTRY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN O’KEEFE
Tucked into the sun-drenched hills of Napa Valley, The Meritage Resort & Spa is the quintessential Northern California wine country retreat. With lush vineyards, indulgent spa treatments, exquisite dining, and worldclass wine tasting just steps from your room, it's a haven for those seeking a taste of the relaxation and refined indulgence of wine country living.
My morning started with breathtaking views and fresh air, followed by a stroll through the resort's nine-acre private vineyard and a dip in the pool under the golden California sun. It's best to start the day with exceptional coffee at Blend Café, nestled within the elegant Meritage Resort and Spa. As the day unfolds, indulge in a gourmet lunch at Olive & Hay, the resort's signature restaurant, where rustic sophistication meets farm-to-table excellence. Savor locally sourced ingredients transformed into exquisite dishes paired with curated wines that reflect the region's renowned vineyards.
Ember Steak at The Meritage offers a rustic yet elevated dining experience featuring expertly prepared steaks, fresh seafood, incredible sushi, and seasonal sides. Emphasizing locally sourced ingredients, many dishes are crafted using produce from their chef's garden and fresh eggs from the vineyard chicken coop. The ambiance is warm and sophisticated. Impeccable service makes every visit memorable. Whether you're celebrating a romantic dinner or a CONTINUED >
special occasion, Ember Steak provides the perfect setting to savor flavors inspired by the bounty of Napa Valley's terroir.
One of the most unexpected highlights was Crush Lounge. I didn't expect to love bowling so much, but the upscale vibe, atmosphere, and stylish design made it an unforgettable experience. Between games, I treated myself to a boozy milkshake and a smash burger, two of the standout items on the bar menu. The lounge also serves up craft cocktails and delicious bites, making it just as much a destination for food and drink as it is for fun.
Wine tasting at The Meritage Resort is an unmatched experience, featuring three distinct on-site tasting rooms: Trinitas Cellars, Anarchist Wine Company, and Gen 7 Wines. Each offers a unique perspective on Napa Valley's rich winemaking tradition, catering to both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers. For those who prefer a touch of sparkle, Sora Bubbles and Bites offers a flight of three sparkling wines, as well as a curated list featuring over 30 varieties of bubbles from around the world. If you're feeling indulgent, consider purchasing a stunning bottle of wine from a local vineyard to enjoy on the lawn, surrounded by panoramic vineyard views and relaxed elegance.
“Every service is crafted with intention to provide deep relaxation and renewal, making the spa at the Meritage Resort a perfect escape for those seeking luxury and natural harmony.”
Nestled beneath the hotel's sun-drenched vineyard, the spa offers a serene sanctuary where natural stone and ambient lighting create a calming atmosphere. The scents of eucalyptus and lavender filled the air, instantly relaxing me. Guests indulge in treatments infused with locally sourced grapeseed oils and herbs. This tranquil retreat seamlessly blends world-class wellness therapies with the earthy elegance of Napa Valley, offering massages, facials, body wraps, and holistic rituals designed to rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit. Every service is crafted with intention to provide deep relaxation and renewal, making the spa at the Meritage Resort a perfect escape for those seeking luxury and natural harmony. If you feel like getting out and about, there is no better way to explore than with Napa Valley Bike Tours. Pedal through the heart of Napa, where vineyard-lined roads and fresh country air create the perfect escape. Each turn offers breathtaking views, charming wineries, and peaceful moments that invite you to slow down and savor the journey. Whether you're enjoying a sunrise coffee, an afternoon massage, or a sunset tasting, the resort invites you to immerse yourself in the effortless elegance and natural beauty that make Napa Valley and The Meritage Resort and Spa an unforgettable destination.
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ARTICLE BY WOODSTOCK CITY LIFESTYLE
Bizarre Coffee is a funky and creative coffee shop located in Downtown Woodstock. Check out their popular menu items including cafe lattes, cold brew, bagels, sandwiches, and more.
Woodstock Flowers and Gifts is the perfect choice for beautiful flowers and gifts for any occasion. They offer fresh flowers, green & blooming plants, gourmet baskets, chocolates, and balloon bouquets.
Deep Roots Wine Market offers a unique wine tasting experience with wines from all over the US, and visitors can also enjoy small plates from the kitchen.
This local waterfall is a fantastic place for getting away in nature in our own backyard. We recommend kayaking and/or bringing waterproof shoes!
If you live in North Georgia and haven’t visited Gibbs Gardens, now is the time to remedy that. Follow them @ gibbsgardens on social media to get the scoop on what’s currently in bloom.
The charming, Savannah-esque town just two hours from Woodstock
If you’ve ever taken a road trip south of Atlanta, chances are you’ve passed through LaGrange. Just two hours south of Woodstock, it’s a little town teeming with beauty and fun. The close proximity and small-town vibe makes LaGrange, Georgia the perfect locale for a long weekend trip.
Stay at the downtown Courtyard by Marriott hotel, which overlooks the downtown square, lit up at night with rainbow colors. The square surrounds a statue of Marquis de Lafayette and an extravagant fountain. We are coining LaGrange “little Savannah.” The old buildings, calm and cozy nightlife, and the iconic square remind us of the world-famous city.
Sleep in, leave for LaGrange in the afternoon, and arrive in perfect time to chill at the hotel for a bit before walking less than a mile to your dinner reservation. Mare Sol is a stylish, family-friendly option with a menu featuring items such as Blackened Chicken Alfredo, BBQ Beef Sliders, and Steak Frites. There are also options for gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan diets.
Walk just a couple of minutes down the street from the hotel and pick up a pizza at Your Pie and enjoy lunch in the square. A top-tier restaurant making waves in LaGrange is Tutto Pepe, an upscale dining room operated by the much-loved Beacon Brewing Company. You’ll find fine Italian fare here, including Bucatini alla Puttanesca, Risotto, and Aglio e Olio. For dessert, we recommend their Flowerless Chocolate Torte.
While you’re exploring downtown, stop by Pretty Good Books, the local independent bookstore. See if you can find their cute homage to Lord of the Rings! Other shops we recommend are Splash Fine Gifts & Interiors and Marketplace at Lafayette Square.
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Also within easy walking distance from the Courtyard hotel is the LaGrange Society for Performing Arts. Their Black Box Theater always has an enthralling performance during their season schedule. Recently, their lively actors performed Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express.
You may have heard of Callaway Gardens. The Callaways are a family well-known in Georgia for their nature conservation and beautification efforts. A lesser-known Callaway property is Hills & Dales Estate in LaGrange. The estate is a sprawling garden with a mansion at its center. Take a tour of the mansion with one of Hills & Dales’ passionate and knowledgeable tour guides. When you’re on your way up to the mansion, don’t forget to spot the bluebird boxes, installed to encourage the birds to make Hills & Dales their home. It’s important to note that the gardens of Hills & Dales were built and maintained by enslaved people in the 1800s.
We highly recommend taking a nighttime walk to clear your head and take in the city. You may even experience a sense of warmth and nostalgia as you walk through the twinkling lights in the trees.
LaGrange is a city that’s not too overwhelming to explore in a long weekend. Take it slow and enjoy the nature and small businesses this quiet little town has to offer.
LAGRANGE | @VISITLAGRANGE
Follow @visitlagrange for information on events such as their Spring Artisan Market and Sip and Shop. Go to visitlagrange.com to plan your trip and learn more.
LIGHTING THE WAY FOR CUSTOMERS AND CREW
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA HAGEN
Maggie and Mike Grayeski founded their local and multi-award-winning home services company, ServiceWise Electric and Plumbing, in 2018. Mike's 30+ years of experience as an electrician, Maggie's expert management skills, and their top-notch team make ServiceWise stand up to its name.
The Grayeskis were inspired to start their own company when they noticed the gap in truly customer-focused home service providers in Cherokee County. A recent industry analysis found that 65% of electrical and construction firms identified a lack of skilled labor as a significant concern. Maggie says, "We saw a need in for better customer service in Cherokee County, showing up on time, quality of work, and businesses standing behind their work."
With over 1,000 5-star reviews and a 95% customer retention rate, ServiceWise has earned the top name in electric and plumbing services. They take that responsibility seriously. The best businesses are constantly learning and growing, Mike says. At ServiceWise, service starts from within. Their technicians regularly engage in ongoing education and certification to best serve their customers.
Truly embodying customer service starts before the customer ever contacts ServiceWise. Creating a thriving environment for employees is the backbone of any successful business. On the most enriching parts of owning ServiceWise, Maggie says, "Being able to provide a better life for our employees. We've had employees who have come to us with nothing, and now they've bought houses and are getting married. It's rewarding, being on the leadership side and watching people grow."
Along with skill, Mike and Maggie look for attitude and integrity as equal qualifications for their team members. They work one-on-one and conduct ride-a-longs with new hires, ensuring the atmosphere is encouraging and focused on honing skills.
Care and community are the true powerhouses behind any business. They're the reason we learn about the best service providers from our friends, family, and neighbors.
“Care and community are the true powerhouses behind ServiceWise.”
At Woodstock City Lifestyle, we are proud to call Maggie and Mike, and the whole ServiceWise team, our neighbors. They are, as their name suggests, wise and helpful, whether we need to get our homes up to code or even just change a light bulb.
You can find ServiceWise Electric and Plumbing at servicewiseelectricandplumbing.com and @servicewiseelectric on Instagram. Give them a call at 407-759-6209.
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My grandson Teddy will never forget where he lost his first tooth.
The whole family was following the progress of the tiny white nugget as it was tongue-twisted and cajoled, the main topic of conversation during our breakfast, lunch and dinner on our first day together at Villa Cantamar in the Dominican Republic.
We arrived at the sprawling private villa in good spirits and ready with our cabana wear and appetites. We were welcomed by the engaging staff of five who were with us all week, preparing and serving three full meals and healthy snacks daily, picking and carving coconuts for our happy hours, quietly working around the stunning cliff-side property and tidying up after us. It was luxury!
Perched on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, far from las turistas, the 10,000 square foot estate sleeps 16 in five en suite bedrooms, each opening to a common courtyard with a pool and covered terrace where we gathered for morning coffee, snacks, billiards and an hourly tooth report.
Our hostess, Christy Petrillo is a real estate developer and lifestyle trendsetter who splits her time between her homes and 14 luxury vacation properties in Blue Ridge, Georgia and the Dominican Republic. Her design aesthetic is boho but refined. The sunken living room at Villa Cantamar opens completely to the terrace, with a wet bar (kept full of your preferences, thanks to the stealth staff), soft lighting and deep white sectionals for lounging and cuddle puddles with the grandchildren.
Each bedroom suite has been decorated by Kristy, with local art and nods to the history of the island, designed with the guest’s utmost comfort in mind. “I believe a five-star experience starts with upscale furnishings and design. This isn't like other vacation rentals. I design and furnish each home like I would my own,” says Kristy. “And I look for ways we can offer our guests enriching experiences and opportunities to make exceptional memories–like I do with my friends and with my sons.”
While we really had no reason to leave the grounds, we connected with Kristy’s Adventure Concierge, Josh Heisler who scooped us up for a nearby day trip to the Laguna Dudu where we ziplined out to the middle of a crystal clear cenote and dropped screaming 30-feet into the cold water. The park also has a bar and restaurant, and two lagoons with caves to swim into and various small craggy cliffs to jump from.
The next day, we followed Josh’s recommendation and posted up at Kite Beach, where we played in the waves, rented chairs and umbrellas and enjoyed fried chicken and frozen drinks served by the eager beach vendors.
Back at Villa Cantamar, smoothies awaited and we were informed dinner would be served in the garden overlooking the Atlantic (t-shirts and damp bathing suits welcomed). We toasted to Kristy and her staff’s vision and spectacular service and to the tooth fairy who finally came.
reservations@kristycollection.com 706-851-8467
https://kristycollection.com/about/
JULY 5TH
Star-Spangled Pub Crawl
Downtown Woodstock | 2:00 PM
Celebrate Independence Day in Downtown Woodstock! On Saturday, July 5, Visit Woodstock GA invites you to celebrate Independence Day in Downtown Woodstock with with a festive, fun-filled patriotic pub crawl from 2pm-6pm
JULY 9TH-23RD
Woodstock Arts Theatre
Dessa is a modern girl who is surrounded by mysteries ranging from dinosaur bones to her own personal memories. When 19th-century English paleontologist Mary Anning shows up mysteriously, Dessa learns that Mary Anning’s name has been lost to history because of her gender and lack of formal education, and sets out to get her friend the credit she deserves!
JULY 16TH
Cash Honey is a femme-forward rock band celebrating both old-school and modern sound.
JULY 17TH
Flurry Fest
Woodstock Arts Event Green | 5:00 PM
Bundle up! Join us in Downtown Woodstock to enjoy the fun of winter… in July! Cool off with fun winter-themed activities for everyone. The featured movie on the Woodstock Arts Event Green will be Frozen.
JULY 21ST
FoxTale Book Shoppe 105 E Main Street, Suite 138 | 6:30 PM
Karen White stops by our local independent bookstore to talk about her newest novel, That Last Carolina Summer. Purchase tickets online at foxtalebookshoppe.com/White
JULY 26TH
Logan Farm Park | 9:00 AM
This back-to-school bash will take place at Logan Farm Park on Saturday, July 26. They will have a “silent hour” from 9am – 10am with limited lights, sirens and sounds for our sensitive populations. From 10am – 2pm be ready for all the lights, sirens, horns and more! Food trucks will be present.
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