Cobb Life - Spring 2025 by Times Journal Media

FEATURING

EQUESTRIAN ESTATE

PROJECT

HUSBAND-WIFE

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM

26TH & OREGON

LOCAL DESIGNER BRINGS ECLECTIC FLAIR TO FUNCTIONAL FAMILY HOMES

SHOWBIZ

CL COBB LIFE

EXECUTIVE

PUBLISHER

Otis Brumby III

GENERAL MANAGER

Lee B. Garrett

V.P. OF CONTENT

J.K. Murphy

EDITORIAL STAFF

EDITOR

Skyler Heath

CONTRIBUTORS

Matthew DeBusschere, Skyler Heath, Ashly Hospodka, Lisa Mowry, Carley Taylor

PHOTOGRAPHY

Justin Hadley, Catrina Maxwell (CatMax Photography)

LAYOUT AND DESIGN

Windsor Armour, Beth Poirier

Cobb Life is published nine times a year by the Marietta Daily Journal and distributed to more than 25,000 homes and businesses.

To subscribe, email circulation@cobblifemagazine.com or call 770-795-5001.

To advertise, contact Bob McCray at bob.mccray@scompapers.com.

Send letters to the editor, article pitches and any other content queries to Skyler Heath at sheath@mdjonline.com cobblifemagazine.com

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V.P. OF SALES

Bob McCray

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Becky Opitz, Sydney Snyder, Mandy McQuay, Janie Roling, Paula Milton

GRAPHICS/LAYOUT COORDINATOR

Beth Poirier

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Windsor Armour, Erin Barkwell, Tona Deaton, Jennifer Hall

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Dave Gossett

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29 COVER STORY

Ten years ago, Kacey Primer was on a flight home to Milwaukee when she felt called to make a change — she was craving a new chapter, particularly one with warmer weather, family nearby and a career she truly loved. Today, she’s the founder and principal designer of 26th & Oregon, a Marietta-based boutique interior design firm, known for infusing eclectic charm and personal touches into functional family homes.

APRIL/MAY 2025

Features

Equestrian

Drawing from her equestrian roots, Atlanta interior designer Cristi Holcombe, of Cristi Holcombe Interiors, breathes new life into an elegant equestrian estate in Cobb County.

17 Shower Spring is the perfect season to celebrate new life. Matthew DeBusschere, aka Marietta Food Guy, shares tips for hosting a baby shower, plus a seasonal recipe that’s sure to elevate any spring soiree.

Travel Hollywood may be the world’s film capital, but the East Coast has a thriving film industry, too. Explore popular filming spots in and around Atlanta, plus iconic entertainment backdrops in the Big Apple.

Custom Meet husband-wife duo Stephanie and Russell Ives, the power couple behind design-build company Custom Dwellings in Marietta. For 19 years, they’ve turned houses into homes, providing a personal touch to custom home-building and remodeling.

In every issue

8 Letter from the Editor

47 Author Q&A

49 Cobb Eats’ Dining Deets

53 Releases

57 Events

61 Cobb Scene

66 Now & Then

HAPPY SPRING, FRIENDS. If you’re a regular Cobb Life reader and follow my editor’s letters, you know I love weaving personal anecdotes into each issue’s theme. Sometimes they’re humorous, other times nostalgic and often they’re a mix of both.

For last year’s Home issue, I had just moved into my first “big-girl” apartment, making perfect content for my editor’s letter. I discussed the trauma of putting together furniture ordered online — you know, the kind that arrives in a small box deceptively labeled “some assembly required,” only to come with a thousand pieces of hardware and an instruction manual that might as well be in hieroglyphics. Ring a bell? If not, stick to furniture stores and spare yourself the headache (or what feels like an aneurysm).

Well, after all of that, I just moved — again.

I’m starting to think that being a nomad is a rite of passage for your early-tomid-twenties. In the past five years, I’ve cycled through several versions of home — bouncing between student apartments, moving back in with my parents (twice, thanks to COVID), settling into my first post-college apartment, and now, yet another move.

To be transparent, I thrive on routine. I’m an overthinker, a perfectionist and a planner. I put timelines on everything and set high expectations for what I want my life to look like. Routine grounds me, giving me the illusion that I’m in control. But moving? It throws everything into dissarray. It’s stressful, expensive and an utter calamity at times, leaving my control-freak brain struggling to compute.

Maybe it’s because my frontal lobe has fully developed (science says 25), but I’m slowly but surely starting to make peace with change — and the choas that comes along with it.

So, when I interviewed local designer Kacey Primer for the 2025 Home issue of Cobb Life, her philosophy of living really spoke to me. The Type A, no-nonsense entrepreneur discussed the art of putting your blinders on, staying in your lane and resisting the urge to compare someone else’s successes and failures to your own — advice I think we could all live by.

For our cover story, Primer details her life’s journey, from growing up in a creative household to starting her own interior design firm, 26th & Oregon in Marietta. Her story is an inspiration for anyone hesitating to venture out and start their own business. Don’t miss her expert tips on how to elevate your home on a budget and give it that Pinterest-worthy touch.

In addition to our cover story, we have several features that align with our issue’s spring/home theme. See how Atlanta designer Cristi Holcombe breathed new life into a Marietta equestrian estate using her equestrian roots. Plus, meet Russell and Stephanie Ives, the husband-wife duo at the helm of a local design-build firm Custom Dwellings.

Spring is the perfect season to celebrate new life. And what better way to celebrate life than with a baby shower? Matthew DeBusschere, aka Marietta Food Guy, shares tips for hosting a French-inspired baby bash, plus a seasonal recipe that will elevate any spring soiree.

Now is also a great opportunity to plan your next vacation. For the entertainment buffs or those curious to walk in the footsteps of their favorite stars, travel columnist Lisa Mowry’s showbiz story is sure to spark some ideas. She’s compiled a list of famous filming spots in metro Atlanta and New York City, including Buckhead’s Swan Coach House from “The Hunger Games” and Central Park from “When Harry Met Sally.”

Don’t forget to check out upcoming spring releases and events, familiar faces in Cobb Scene, Cobb Eats’ Dining Deets and a special “Then” photo segment of our beloved Atlanta Braves.

May this spring bring you blessings, love and the simple pleasures of home.

Cheers,

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Elegance Equestrian

Minimal yet chic, the dining room includes mismatched dining chairs, a striking chandelier, oversized white lamps and a statement black-and-white horse portrait that ties the space together.

Atlanta-based interior designer Cristi

offers full design and renovation services, new builds and refreshes. She launched her interior design firm in 2009 and worked on HGTV’s Emmy Award Winning Show, “Elbow Room,” for three seasons as production designer. In summer 2020, Holcombe opened CH HOME, a home furnishings store in Johns Creek that offers highly curated furniture, vintage rugs, bedding, accessories, lighting and gifts.

Atlanta Designer Cristi Holcombe Breathes

into this Marietta Estate

Written by CARLEY TAYLOR

Photography by CATRINA MAXWELL CAT MAX PHOTOGRAPHY

Left:

Right:

Holcombe, of Cristi Holcombe Interiors,

For interior designer Cristi Holcombe, the opportunity to remodel an equestrian estate in Marietta was more than just another project. Having grown up as an equestrian and now watching her daughter compete, she felt an instant connection to the property.

“I just fell in love with the property and the homeowner was very willing to give us free reign to take it in whatever direction we wanted,”

Holcombe recalls. “I was really excited about being in the vicinity of an amazing barn and property.”

Holcombe said her client, a single father who married during the renovation, put

Left: Although previously updated, the kitchen was completely renovated for this project with the help of Distinctive Remodeling Solutions, featuring new marble countertops, cabinetry and hardware. Wood accents, lush greenery and red oven knobs add subtle pops of color and warmth to the open space.

Right: Designed for both entertaining and relaxation, the living room centers around a large coffee table, an L-shaped couch and two accent chairs — perfect for game nights and family gatherings. Bottom: Freestanding tub, gold hardware and light fixture bring a rustic yet chic aesthetic to this secondary bathroom.

great trust in the process. He checked in only a handful of times, and was so pleased with the transformation that he barely requested any changes during the final walkthrough. Before renovation, the house still reflected its ‘90s roots, with only a few modern updates made to the kitchen. Holcombe wanted to maintain the home’s original charm while elevating it to fit the sophisticated, masculine aesthetic of the owner — a young professional with a taste for refined, yet comfortable spaces. To keep the authenticity of the house,

Top: Light and airy, the master bedroom features high ceilings, ample seating and layers of throw blankets and pillows, creating a cozy, luxurious retreat vibe.

Bottom: The butler’s pantry balances farmhouse charm with contemporary sophistication, pairing white marble counters and vertical shiplap walls with bold black cabinets and gold hardware.

Holcombe and her team preserved the original molding and trim. Fireplaces were revamped for a more upscale look and luxurious finishes were introduced throughout.

Holcombe leaned into masculine elements, incorporating metals, wood, stone and leather to create a sophisticated yet livable atmosphere. A palette of dark hues and earth tones set the tone for a modern aesthetic.

But with the homeowner’s young daughter also living in the space, Holcombe ensured that comfort was just as important as style. The goal was to craft a home that felt upscale yet inviting, classic yet functional — a place where both the client and his daughter could truly feel at home.

Working alongside Distinctive Remodeling Solutions, an Atlanta-based contracting firm, Holcombe describes the renovation process as collaborative, fun and creative.

Aside from the kitchen and bath design, which are two of her specialties, Holcombe says that her favorite part of the design process was styling the newly renovated spaces.

“I really love the styling,” Holcombe explains. “Getting to put the last finishing touches on the space and seeing it truly come to life, putting the flowers in the vase, the pillows on the couch and hanging the artwork on the wall. Like that is my kind of aha moment whenever I’m doing a project.”

A French Inspired SpringShowerBaby

Written by MATTHEW DEBUSSCHERE

few months ago, my wife learned that her childhood best friend was having her first baby. Naturally, as a seasoned host, she wanted to throw her friend a baby shower. With the baby due this summer, my wife selected to host this event in the spring. As flowers begin to bloom, plants come back to life and temperatures are pleasantly mild, I think spring is the perfect time to celebrate the anticipation of a new life. This shower is going to be classic, with a vaguely French theme. My wife is sourcing a ton of flowers (reminiscent of a Parisian market) and much of the decor will be highlighted by French blue. To be honest, I didn’t know what French blue was, so I had to look it up. Apparently, it’s a light, smokey “grey blue” associated with the cloth used for uniforms of French infantrymen in the 19th century. This light, pastel blue really ties the whole thing together: French undertones, spring, baby boy.

While my wife handles all the decor, I’ve been tasked with food. I’m keeping things simple and trying to pull in the French vibe a little. While I’m not overtly curating a French menu, I will use

NewWelcoming Life as Flowers Begin to Bloom recipe

baguette on a few items as a subtle nod. This shower will occur in the afternoon between meals, so I’m going with hors d’oeuvres, which ironically is a French term that translates to “outside the meal.”

If you’ve read my articles before, then you know I’m a fan of keeping things simple, but simple doesn’t have to be basic. For this shower, among other menu items, I’m borrowing a recipe from Sun in my Belly, a restaurant/catering company right outside of Decatur I used to work for many years ago. This was always a favorite of mine. It presents as elevated, but doesn’t take much time to make and uses a baguette, which will help me tie in the theme.

Typically I pair my food recipes with a cocktail, but sometimes less is more. A simple glass of champagne will be the perfect complement to this French baby shower. You can never go wrong with a good bottle of champagne. As with much of French culture, champagne is classy, classic and effortless. It’s also inherently celebratory, and with the arrival of a new baby, there is much to celebrate!

Top Left: Matthew DeBusschere and his wife, Lauren, pose for a selfie during a trip to Paris. Top Middle: Immerse yourself in the French vibe while cooking with Brigitte Bardot or Fancious Hardy, two of Marietta Food Guy’s favorite French artists from the ‘60s. Bottom: French blue, reminiscent of French infantrymen uniforms in the 19th century, is the perfect color palette for baby boy showers, spring celebrations and, of course, Parisian-themed parties.

Goat Cheese Torta recipe

This recipe is a mix of French and Italian. “Chevre” (French for goat cheese) was embraced in the Loire Valley of France in the 8th Century. The word “torta” can have a few culinary implications depending on the region, but for this dish, we are referring to the Eastern European definition that includes cakes.

This appetizer is essentially a savory cheesecake, constructed with alternating layers of goat/cream cheese mix, green presto and red

pesto, served with toasted baguette. This is a staple at my events at home, but I’ve never seen it at other gatherings, so please use this and impress your friends! The torta can conveniently be prepared a day or two before your event, which is helpful for time management. You can also make this any size you want! It can be built inside a round cake pan, or even a small souffle cup depending on how many guests you plan to entertain.

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Close to Cumberland Mall, Truist Park, and right off of I-75 470-308-3333 www.chowkingcobb.com

Ingredients

This will vary based on size. For this recipe, we will build a small torta inside a souffle cup.

1 log goat cheese

8 oz cream cheese (softened)

1 jar green pesto

1 jar red pesto

1 small baguette (sliced and toasted)

A few pine nuts and sprig of basil for garnish

Directions:

Soften the cream cheese by either letting it sit out for a few hours or microwaving it for a few seconds at a time.

Line the inside of a souffle cup (or whatever sized container you select based on your guest count) with plastic wrap. There should be enough plastic wrap to cover the inside completely and still have a few inches hang out on all sides.

1. Mix equal parts of softened cream cheese and goat cheese.

2. Fill the inside of the souffle cup with alternating layers of cheese mix, then red pesto, another layer of cheese mix, green pesto, and lastly, a final layer of cheese mix. It’s important to start and end with cheese mix as well as separating both pesto layers with cheese mix to ensure that the colors do not mix and that the torta forms securely.

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3. Place the filled souffle cup in the fridge for an hour or two to allow it to firm. If you’re making this in advance, the torta can sit in the fridge for a couple of days, but make sure it’s covered at the top if you leave it in there for longer than an hour or two.

4. When you’re ready to serve, find a plate or platter that’s large enough for the torta and still has space around it for toasted baguette. Flip the souffle cup upside down onto the middle of the platter. Slowly and gently lift up the cup and then pull off the plastic wrap. This will reveal your finished product!

5. Lastly, you will slice and toast your baguette and top your torta with a few pine nuts and a sprig of basil. If you’re a pine nut lover, you can also encrust the edges of your torta with pine nuts.

6. Want to immerse yourself in a French vibe while you’re cooking? Check out Brigitte Bardot or Fancious Hardy (some of my favorite 1960’s French artists) on whatever streaming service you subscribe to!

Matthew DeBusschere’s goat cheese torta recipe is sure to elevate any spring soiree, baby shower or celebration.

Bon Appetit!

Matthew

DeBusschere

is the co-owner of Marietta Melt Yard. He has worked in the restaurant industry for over 20 years. Follow his Marietta food journey on instagram @mariettafoodguy.

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Written by LISA MOWRY

travel Entertainment That’s

EXPERIENCE THE SETTINGS FOR YOUR FAVORITE TV SHOWS, MOVIES AND PLAYS

Curious to walk in the footsteps of your favorite stars? A recent travel trend is called “set-jetting” (a play on jet-setting), where showbiz fans can visit locations they’ve seen on the big screen. Some pilgrimages might be far — such as finding “Game of Thrones” backdrops in Croatia or Ireland — but for those of us in Georgia, the opportunities are easy and endless. Atlanta’s busy airport has hourly flights to get you to New York City in two-plus hours for even more familiar sites you’ve seen in hundreds of TV shows and movies. I always enjoy viewing a place through the lens of a film or show.

Facts about Georgia filmmaking: The Peach State has been the place to come for years now, one of the most popular spots in the U.S. to create movie and TV magic. Every year, hundreds of shows and movies come to town, lured by our diverse topography, state tax credits and now a booming film industry in our backyard. Sometimes, Atlanta might play itself, such as in the ABC-TV series “Will Trent” or FX show “Atlanta,” but often Georgia stands in for somewhere else: the Ozarks (Netflix’s “Ozark”), the “Stranger Things” fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, or the many scenes around the state for Marvel movies.

JACKSON STREET BRIDGE, DOWNTOWN ATLANTA

The most Instagramworthy spot in Atlanta, Jackson Street Bridge near Freedom Parkway, is best known as the apocalyptic site from “The Walking Dead” promotional posters that showed hero Rick Grimes riding into a deserted city.

SENOIA, GEORGIA

This charming small town south of the airport attracts visitors from around the world to see where “The Walking Dead” has been filmed for years. Georgia Tour Company runs multiple behind-thescenes tours (both walking ones and on a van) to provide the ultimate “Dead” experience. Afterwards, have a meal at Nic & Norman’s, owned by an actor and special effects make-up guy — although don’t worry, no zombies show up.

Jackson Street Bridge near Freedom Parkway. Photo Explore Georgia/ Andrea David

Metro Atlanta Where To Visit travel

THE SWAN HOUSE, BUCKHEAD

You’ve seen it in “The Hunger Games” movies, as the finish line in “The Amazing Race” season 19 and the latest version of “Dynasty.” This historic mansion designed by Philip Trammell Shutze in 1928 is part of the Atlanta History Center, and open for tours.

TRILITH STUDIOS, FAYETTEVILLE

This town was founded on the premise of serving creatives — and specifically, the movie/TV industry. The town of Trilith itself is one big movie set, with charming, walkable neighborhoods and businesses. You can also sign up for the Trilith Experience that takes you over to the Trilith Studios, where Marvel movies and more come to life.

TRILITHFOUNDATION.ORG

WHERE ELSE TO EXPLORE

Piedmont Park gets attention in “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” and “Anchorman 2.” The Atlanta Marriott Marquis hotel shows up in “Spider-man: Homecoming” and Denzel Washington’s film “Flight.” Berry College in Rome gets a starring role in “Stranger Things,” “Remember the Titans” and “Sweet Home Alabama,” while downtown Covington is home to “The Vampire Diaries,” “My Cousin Vinny” and “In the Heat of the Night.”

Top: The regal Swan House in Buckhead serves as President Snow’s mansion in two “Hunger Games” movies. Photo Explore Georgia.

Bottom: Tourgoers in Senoia channeling their Walking Dead vibes. Photo Georgia Tour Company/Senoia/Kevin Garrett.

travel new york city Where To Visit

PLAZA HOTEL/CENTRAL PARK

There’s nowhere more glamorous than The Plaza Hotel, known as the most famous hotel in the world and a backdrop for movies and TV shows for decades. A stay in one of the rooms is a splurge, but a memory of a lifetime. (The NYC Tourism department suggests looking into their “Hotel Week,” which goes on early January through early February as a way to find rooms at the lowest rates.) The Plaza’s marble and gilded lobby — filled with gorgeous flowers — is a treat to see, as well as the exotic Palm Court, where guests can come for afternoon tea or cocktails.

Alfred Hitchcock’s “North by Northwest” movie was one of the first to showcase the sophisticated hotel, which was later followed by Neil Simon’s “Plaza Suite,” “Barefoot in the Park,” “Crocodile Dundee,” “Arthur,” “The Way We Were” and “Home Alone 2,” all iconic movies. Television shows set in New York also had to pay homage to The Plaza themselves, leading to scenes on “Gossip Girl” and “Friends.”

Central Park across the street has its own dedicated tour of famous sites and can be spotted in many “Law and Order” episodes, as well as “Night at the Museum” and “When Harry met Sally.”

THEPLAZANY.COM

ON LOCATION TOURS

The best way to cover some ground in Manhattan is to let the locals show you the way. I was thoroughly entertained on the company’s “NYC TV & Movie Tour,” which takes you on a bus past 40 locations. As a reference point, a lively guide tells you about each stop before you get to it and often plays a video from the actual TV or movie scene. Standout destinations might include the apartment building in Greenwich Village from “Friends,” the firehouse from “Ghostbusters,” and high-rises from “Succession,” “Avenger” movies, and “The Devil Wears Prada.”

ONLOCATIONTOURS.COM

Top: The Plaza Hotel may be the most movie-centric spot in New York City, with its elegant Palm Court as a must-see place to visit for afternoon tea. You may recognize it from the “Sex in the City” TV show or the “Bride Wars” movie. Photo courtesy NYCTourism.

Bottom: Washington Square Arch is a stop along the On Location Tours that highlights TV/movie sites. You may recognize it from “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “When Harry Met Sally” (when Sally dropped Harry off in New York) or “Glee.” Photo Lisa Mowry.

travel Theater Love

ATLANTA:

Did you know that our fabulous Fox Theatre offers behind-the-scenes tours to learn about the city’s most famous venue? “Fox Architecture & History Tours” operate year-round, three times a week and cost $15. The hour-long tour tells the story of this 1920s architectural structure inspired by Ancient Egypt and the Middle East, among other cultures. I loved learning about the famous organ, the elegant lounges, the Egyptian Ballroom and more.

FOXTHEATRE.ORG

High above the bustling Times Square and close to theaters and the Broadway Museum, Tempo by Hilton Times Square is a good homebase for theater-lovers, and it’s less than a mile from Bryant Park and Rockefeller Center. Photo Tempo by Hilton Times Square

NEW YORK

Nothing is more exciting than the theater district of New York City, with four famous venues waiting to entertain you. Tip: Check ahead of time to see which plays are in “previews,” which means they haven’t been reviewed yet — but usually offer big-names at less than $100 per performance.

The TKTS booth at Times Square offers “day of” tickets at a significant discount in the afternoon (or mornings for Wednesday matinees), although there are also online discounters. Theater fans need to visit The Museum of Broadway on west 45th street, where this shrine to the history of plays in New York includes costumes and sets from your favorite shows to a timeline of how the theater mixes in with changing history and culture. It’s a colorful, fun visit.

Staying in the heart of theater district makes a trip convenient with an element of energy mixed in. I enjoyed my experience at the new Tempo by Hilton Times Square, which soars 46 floors above the bright lights below. Hotel rooms and its restaurant on the 11th floor offer birds-eye views to the ever-changing videos and streetscapes of Times Square.

NYCTOURISM.COM

Check out the Fox Theatre’s architectural tours to experience this historic landmark without crowds. Photo Lisa Mowry

26th & Oregon, stands in a swanky dressing room from a previous home project in

Kacey Primer, owner and founder of Marietta-based interior design firm

Austell.

Before

Local designer brings eclectic charm to functional family homes

Written by SKYLER HEATH

Photography

JUSTIN HADLEY

Ten years ago, Kacey Primer was on a flight back to Milwaukee when she felt called to start anew. The Texas native was craving a fresh chapter — one that could offer warmer weather, family nearby and a new career path.

At the time, she and her partner, Michelle, had been on a two-year hiatus from running their event planning company, making it the perfect opportunity for new beginnings. For years, she had dreamed of becoming an interior designer and the

Left: This posh dressing room, which previously served as a secondary bedroom, is a groovy nod to the ‘70s, with its colorful midcentury modern-style patterns, gold accents and vibrant pops of color. Courtesy of Anastasia Alkema Photography.

Right: When asked which celebrity or public figure she’d love to design for, Kacey Primer chose Bruno Mars, touting his vibrant and playful energy. “His artist energy feels very much like my design energy,” she said. “I would love to bring that fun luxury into a space for him.”

Before

with it and put up an offer,” Kacey said. “This March marked our 10th year in Cobb County, from Powder Springs to Marietta and now Austell.”

DESIGNS THAT WORK

Today, Kacey is the owner and founder of 26th & Oregon, a boutique interior design company based in Marietta. She and Michelle launched the business in 2015, shortly after settling in Cobb. The duo works together harmoniously — Kacey focuses on the design and creative concepts, while Michelle oversees the execution, coordinating with contractors to bring their visions to life. The company’s name, 26th & Oregon, is a nod to the Milwaukee streets Kacey and Michelle lived on when they met 20 years ago, a reflection of their partnership both in life and in their business.

26th & Oregon offers a wide array of bespoke design services, including full-service renovations and refreshers, home consultations, e-designs and even a curated online shop. The firm caters to a diverse client base with varying design preferences, from traditional to maximalist to midcentury modern. Kacey has garnered experience in commercial and residential projects, though she said single family homes are her specialty.

Kacey prides herself in creating feel-good spaces that work. She describes her design philosophy as blending function with personality, incorporating quirky details and unexpected charm into everyday spaces to make them feel uniquely lived-in and loved. She said her style leans contemporary with a modern flair, accented by a touch of eclecticism — think whimsical pops of color, bold artwork and eyecatching statement pieces. Her ultimate goal is to prove that family homes can be functional without sacrificing on style.

moment felt right to finally make the leap. So, Kacey floated the idea of putting their home on the market while figuring out their next move.

“Kacey knows what she wants and wastes no time getting it,” Michelle said with a laugh. “So the house was up for sale in three days.”

Though the couple could have ended up anywhere, they found themselves touring homes in Atlanta, particularly Cobb County.

“It was a drop in the hat really. We saw a house, fell in love

“Everyone deserves a beautiful home, no matter their lifestyle,” Kacey told Cobb Life.

For Kacey, inspiration strikes in several ways, but how a client wants to feel in their space is a top priority.

“My initial inspiration always comes from the client and our initial meetings,” she said.

Kacey Primer, principal designer at 26th & Oregon, transforms this outdated living area into a stylish den, giving the fireplace a striking makeover and blending warm and cool-toned accent pieces, rugs and upholstery for an earthy vibe. After Photo Courtesy of Anastasia Alkema Photography.

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The 8th Annual

Kacey will hone in on minor details — like a client’s art collection or even their choice of shoes — to envision a space that aligns with their desired aesthetic.

“I look forward to all new projects because they’re all different — it’s an opportunity to flex a new creative muscle,” Kacey said.

Because the industry is constantly evolving, Kacey brushes up on the latest design happenings through social media, publications and home markets.

“I always put my own spin on trends,” Kacey told Cobb Life. “But, ultimately, my clients’ wishes go first.”

Encouraging clients to step out of their comfort zone is another one of Kacey’s strengths as a designer.

“If I have a minimalist client, I’ll try to push the envelope and infuse 26th & Oregon aesthetic — even if it’s through a rug or a piece of art,” she explained.

CREATIVE CONNECTIONS

Primer grew up in what she described a “creative household.” Her mother was always looking for ways to elevate their home through DIY improvements and art projects — pastimes that rubbed off on Kacey and her three siblings. From spray painting furniture and upcycling to making T-shirts and writing, Kacey was drawn to mediums that allowed her to express herself.

Before HGTV was a household name, Kacey and her family would watch “The Home Show,” hosted by Kitty Bartholomew that aired on ABC from 1988 to ‘94. But as a young woman of color, she often wondered if there was a place for her in the interior design industry.

“To be honest, I didn’t see many designers who looked like me on TV, so I didn’t think it was something I could do,” Kacey said. This jaw-dropping kitchen transformation features modern appliances, maximized storage space and a massive quartz waterfall island, making it a perfect space for entertaining. Courtesy of Anastasia Alkema Photography

Curtains galore. If you don’t have custom curtains on a track, my biggest tip to keep your space looking crisp is to opt for stationery curtains. Hang them, get all the wrinkles out, style them so they are uniform and then leave them alone. In addition, utilize a roller shade or high quality blinds alongside your curtains to allow for privacy. This helps your space remain looking crisp, more pulled together and less messy.

Use minimal glass furnishings and decor. When natural light hits glass, it has a tendency to show every streak and speck of dust no matter how much time you spent cleaning it. Consider woods and ceramics. Even metals can help achieve a more pulled together space.

Ditch the excess. Steer away from knick knacks and smaller objects like picture frames, figurines and collectibles. Go large or oversized if your space can handle it. Doing so will make your decor feel more intentional and less like you didn’t know where to put your extra stuff.

Before Kacey Primer’s Tips & Tricks To Feel Like A Designer In Your Own Home

Cozy not cluttered. Cozy vibes can go left really quickly if we don’t contain throws and blankets and toss them haphazardly across our furniture. If you’re unable to keep them out in a way that looks pulled together, use the tried and true method of corralling them together in a basket that looks good in the room. Even if you can’t make them look extra neat in the basket, just putting them there when not in use makes a big difference.

Embrace the negative space. Every wall and corner doesn’t need a piece of a decor or furnishing. We want our homes to be visually appealing, not visually overwhelming.

Meanwhile, Kacey credits her entrepreneurial spirit and eloquence to her father Bobby O’Jay, a Memphis radio legend and Hall of Fame inductee, who passed away in 2022.

“With my mom’s craftiness and my dad’s gift of gab, I feel like it was only natural for me to start my own business,” Kacey explained.

For years, Kacey saw interior design as more of a side hobby than a career. This mindset allowed her to get her feet wet and build confidence in her innate abilities without the added pressure to perform. She enjoyed taking on personal home projects, from seasonal makeovers to full-blown renovations, and partnering with contractors to bring a concept to life. In her spare time, Kacey could be found with her nose in the latest designer magazines or attending local home shows.

It wasn’t until 20 years ago, when she and Michelle started their own event planning company, that Kacey saw a promising full-time career in design.

“With me having to do all the event planning and unique themes, it just translated into home stuff for me because I was able to see how I could transform spaces,” the designer said.

Local designer Kacey Primer prides herself in creating feel-good spaces that work. She describes her design philosophy as blending function with personality, incorporating eclectic details and unexpected charm into everyday spaces. “I always want to take the quirkiest thing that means something to my client and incorporate it into their home,” she said. “You loved Apple Jacks as a kid? How can we bring Apple Jacks into your home?”

A Texas native raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Kacey Primer said she comes from a creative family. Her mother had a passion for DIY home projects and artistic endeavors — pastimes that naturally influenced Kacey and her three siblings. Her father, the late Memphis radio legend Bobby O’Jay, was known for his “gift of gab” and entrepreneurial spirit.

Add trim to lampshades, curtains and upholstered furnishings. An easy and affordable way to do this is with upholstery adhesive or a hot glue gun.

Change or add substantial and unique cabinet hardware to your media consoles and sideboards. Add decorative backplates to your door knobs.

Upgrade your switch plates, outlet covers and vent registers.

Layer your lighting. Under cabinet, sconces, overhead, task and ambient lighting helps create different moods as well as adds warmth and depth.

Buy a luxury fabric and create your own unique accent pillow covers for a fraction of the cost of purchasing them retail. These can even be crafted without sewing!

Mix and match your old and new for a fresh, yet remixed perspective.

If you need to have a tv consider purchasing an art frame tv or head over to Etsy to have a custom frame made for your existing tv and download an app, which will allow you to display art when not in use.

Layer your rugs. An unexpected print atop of a subtle floor covering screams designer.

Hearing Center: Marietta Hearing Center - 1st place

Hearing Professional: Dr. Amanda Thomas - 2nd place

Hearing Professional: Dr. Brittney Tardy - 3rd place

PAVING THE WAY

As for the future of 26th & Oregon, Kacey is looking to scale her business and grow her clientele, with plans to take on more commercial design projects and open a brick-and-mortar store within the next few years.

Kacey has hopes to turn 26th & Oregon into a family legacy, passing the firm down to her children and grandchildren when she and Michelle are ready to retire.

She also believes that interior design plays a vital role in mental health — when people love their spaces, they feel better. As such, Kacey hopes to grow 26th & Oregon into a broader lifestyle and wellness brand.

But Kacey is taking it one day at a time. The Type A, nononsense entrepreneur is focused on her own journey, avoiding comparisons and unrealistic expectations about what’s next.

“You can’t look at someone else’s successes and struggles and make them your own,” Primer said of running her own business. “You have to pave a way for yourself and really put your blinders on.”

26th & Oregon owner Kacey Primer moved to Cobb County in March 2015. Shortly after, she founded the local interior design firm with her partner, Michelle.

Written

Marietta’s

Custom Dwellings Provides a Personal Touch to Home Building Design

Husband-wife duo Stephanie and Russell Ives are the power couple behind Custom Dwellings, a Marietta-based design-build company that transforms houses into personalized family homes.

Founded by Russell in 2006, the Ives have worked together for 19 years and been married for 26. They have built their business through the housing market crash, the births of their four children and COVID-19 by paying special attention to detail and understanding that each home is as unique as the people who live in it.

“We don’t do a signature style,” Stephanie said. “Every project is unique because every client is unique, and we really try to get at what makes their house their home and what changes benefit their life.”

Stephanie’s background in architecture and Russell’s expertise in business and construction have been the foundation of their partnership, but the journey to building Custom Dwellings wasn’t always easy.

Early in his career, Russell’s employer went bankrupt, leaving him jobless in an industry that wasn’t hiring. So, instead of waiting for an opportunity to come along, he created his own.

Initially, Russell was Custom Dwellings. He handled everything from construction to project management to design. But as projects became more intricate and required detailed design work, he brought Stephanie on board to lend her expertise.

At the time, Stephanie was working part-time at another design-build firm — her hours had been cut back after the housing market crash. Though her employer offered to bring her back

Russell and Stephanie Ives are the husbandwife team behind Custom Dwellings, a Mariettabased design-build firm.

Pictured is Russell and Stephanie with their four children Rob, Will, Rebekah and Lizzy and their dog, Pebbles.

by ASHLY HOSPODKA

Photography by NIKKI STRAYHORN

BEFORE

full-time, it would have meant laying off another employee.

“I was like ‘Well, maybe I don’t come back full-time and maybe you keep the other person,’ because it was a nudge that I needed to really focus on our business at that point,” Stephanie said.

Since then, the Ives have expanded their business, enlisting a team of hands-on professionals, including interior designer Amy Chu, construction manager Mike Mitchler and junior project manager Rob Hollister.

For the Ives, home design is about more than just aesthetics — it’s about creating spaces that reflect the people who live in them.

One client shared a story about a cherished heirloom: a bowl she used every week to bake cookies, passed down through the family.

“It was her grandmother’s bowl,” Stephanie told Cobb Life. “It needed a special place in the kitchen.”

The Ives used that information to personalize the kitchen redesign around the client’s beloved heirloom.

“When we are working with clients, we want to find out

what those special things are, because our clients typically are doing projects because they’re staying in their homes long term,” Stephanie explained.

Custom Dwellings’ client-centered approach also extends to accessibility, taking a client’s mobility needs and accommodation requests into account during the design and buildout of each project.

“It’s very personal, the things you need help with in certain spaces…” Stephanie acknowledged.

For a neighbor struggling to lift heavy casserole dishes from stacked cabinets, the Ives installed additional shelving to make the space more functional and userfriendly.

Russell and Stephanie Ives, of Custom Dwellings in Marietta, transformed this once dark and closed-off living room into a bright, inviting gathering space. The addition of wood beams, a blue shiplap accent wall and an expanded fireplace maintains a cozy ambiance while adding character and visual interest to the room.

“We added extra shelving and so she could have multiple shelves of, really, the same thing, but it eased her access to them and made that more functional for her specifically,” Stephanie said. “And that’s just kind of what happens when you’re really planning for an end user instead of any user.”

Custom Dwellings is a repeat sponsor of the annual Marietta Pilgrimage Home Tour benefiting Cobb Landmarks, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and telling the stories of places of significance in the Cobb community.

Recently, the Ives’ company sponsored and added an addition to a home on the corner of Morrison Street and Whitlock Avenue for the 2024 Marietta Pilgrimage Home Tour.

“It’s near and dear to what we do,” Stephanie said. “We love old homes and working on homes in general…so participating in the

a custom island large enough to entertain plenty of friends and family. The smokey blue shiplap in the living room to

Total kitchen remodel of this Marietta home on Mossy Way features

the island’s wood accents keeps cohesion throughout the first floor.

tour is a perfect fit,” Stephanie said.

Over the years, Custom Dwellings has received multiple accolades, most recently winning four awards at the 2023 Georgia NKBA Designs of Distinction Award Gala for their outstanding home projects.

To explore their custom work or learn more about their services, visit customdwellings.com.

Top Left: This master bathroom renovation on Mossy Way in Marietta is bright, with tons of natural lighting, featuring a stand alone tub, where homeowners can relax for hours overlooking the property’s flora and fauna. Top Right: Street view of a renovated Marietta home on Weatherstone Parkway. Custom Dwellings built an addition over the garage along with a new, covered front entry adding colonial-style columns, creating a nostalgic feel — like a home from a favorite ‘90s movie. Bottom: Timeless and traditional: Custom Dwellings installed wide mirrors, custom vanity and luxurious chandelier-lighting, evoking a feeling of comfort and relaxation. The bath and shower area makes every day feel like a trip to the spa.

Meet Stephanie Siegel, co-author of “Activate Your Life, Volume IV: 25 Transformational Exercises From Coaches Around the World”

Smyrna resident Stephanie Siegel has been a news reporter, science writer and editor as well as a clairvoyant and meditation teacher. Her poetry has been published in “L'ouverture” and “Aurora Rising,” her nonfiction articles by newspapers, the US Forest Service and CNN.com. For more information on getting clairvoyant readings for personal healing and growth, contact her through PayAttentionForFallPrevention.com or facebook.com/stephanie.siegel.14.

CL: How did the idea for “Activate Your Life, Volume IV: 25 Transformational Exercises From Coaches Around the World” come about?

SS: The book series began in the mind of Derek Loudermilk, a business coach, author and publisher of six books on building a better life, career and business. By inviting other coaches to contribute chapters to a book, he extended its reach to the followers of 25 leaders.

The idea for my chapter came from the clairvoyant program I’ve studied since 1997. The short visualization exercise in the chapter is one of the foundational exercises in preparing to learn clairvoyance. Visualizing develops our ability to see beyond the physical into the spiritual realm. We ground and center ourselves so that we don’t wander into daydreams. We want to see what’s really going on, like underlying causes of irritations in our physical, financial, or relationship lives. The practice of grounding helps to “be here now,” which can support anyone in any walk of life, not just clairvoyants. I teach it to senior citizens and their caregivers through PayAttentionForFallPrevention.com.

CL: What separates this book from other pieces you’ve written? What connects it?

SS: It’s the most successful book I’ve been involved with. When it launched in January 2024, “Activate Your Life, Volume IV: 25 Transformational Exercises From Coaches Around the World” was No. 2 on Amazon’s list of Best Sellers in Self-Help. Also, for most of my writing career I have created short news and feature articles. Even when they bore my byline, I was being paid to write what other people wanted told. My chapter in “Activate Your Life, Volume IV” instead shares what I hope will benefit readers the most: an exercise that has been part of my daily spiritual practice since 1997. What connects this chapter to my 25-plus years of professional writing and editing is the use of clear language, sensory detail and even a bit of wit to keep readers turning the pages.

CL: What can readers expect from your book?

SS: The book contains much practical guidance from coaches with varied backgrounds — an interior designer, an artist, a dream interpreter, etc. — all offering tidbits in their area of expertise, including

how to: change your subconscious beliefs about money, eat the right foods for you, be in the right place at the right time, and find direction and purpose for your life. An animal communicator shows how to scan your pet’s body. An entrepreneur tells her method for cultivating luck. A shamanic practitioner teaches how to activate your light body for higher consciousness. A licensed social worker writes about transforming negative self-talk. A therapist describes authentic communication. They’re all quite good!

CL: How does inspiration strike you?

SS: I keep a notebook, pen and flashlight beside my bed for when inspiration strikes in the form of dreams or comes to me as I’m waking. I’ll also find myself composing advice or opinions in my head as I wash dishes and make the beds. When I write about spiritual guidance, inspiration seems to channel through me from spirit guides. I also have writing guides who were authors in their most recent lifetimes: Ernest Hemingway, Sylvia Plath and Truman Capote. I had studied and admired Hemingway’s pithy fiction when I was in high school, Plath’s anguished poetry in college, and Capote’s detailed reportage in graduate school. Only later did I learn that the writers themselves were available in spirit to help me write and publish.

CL: Do you have any rituals/best practices for writing?

SS: My best practice is to write down every idea that comes. Write first, edit later. Once it’s down on paper, I can decide to discard it. But it’s wrong to dismiss it from my mind as soon as it pops up. It might hold a gem, a spark that will lead to something. If I don’t have pen and paper handy, I record a quick thought on my cell phone. If I don’t, I’m likely to forget it. When I sit down to write, with paper or at the computer, I can unpack the thought.

CL: What advice can you share with other local aspiring authors?

SS: Don’t expect to make money from being a “best-selling author.” The vast majority of authors have regular jobs to earn a living; they do their writing on the side. Write if you love to write. An author doesn’t say “I want to write.” An author says “I write.” If you want to improve your writing, so that others want to read it, free classes and other writing advice abound on the internet. If you want to talk about your writing experiences and struggles, join a local group like Atlanta Writers Club, Georgia Romance Writers or Georgia Writers.

They offer in-person and online critique groups, conferences and retreats. To learn and network, you might like to find a good national or international association for your genre, like Mystery Writers of America, Romance Writers of America or the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. There are many more.

CL: How has your environment influenced your work?

SS: Not my physical environment, but my mental and social environments have developed my interests in what to write about and for whom. In college I read avidly about air and water pollution. In my early 20s I met earnest volunteers working to end poverty and war. These subjects informed my poetry and my volunteer work. I got a journalism degree hoping to let citizens know what their governments were doing, particularly about pollution and poverty. I figured taxpayers have a right to know what local governments (and state and national, too) are doing with their tax money. Government officials often take unpopular actions and try to keep them quiet. Still concerned about pollution and about hushed health information, I later created a booklet and a newsletter to inform American women about environmentally sound alternatives for female and infant health. Since 1997, learning metaphysics and practicing with fellow clairvoyants have flooded me with new insights and even past-life memories, giving me exciting material for new directions.

CL: What’s your favorite part about writing? Your least favorite?

SS: My favorite part of writing is seeing it in print. My least favorite is seeing my work get rejected or ghosted. It’s frustrating to feel that my file drawers hold unheard messages that would benefit people if only they could get out.

CL: Who are you currently reading?

SS: I’m reading the works in progress of Gail Lash and others by

The

participating in a writing critique group of the Atlanta Writers Club. Some of the club’s most talented published authors are Kristine Anderson, Patricia Bowen, Anthony Grooms, Beth Hermes, and George Weinstein. I’m also enjoying “Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence” by Sarah Young. It’s 365 days of inspiration.

CL: Why did you start writing? What made you take the plunge?

SS: I started writing at age 5. That first piece was a prayer to Mary, the mother of Jesus. Ideas just come to me, overflowing. My house is filled with published articles (most from 12 years as a newspaper staff writer) and unpublished jottings. I write down everything, from song ideas to grocery lists, so that I don’t forget it. In 2015 I started writing fiction to tell a story from one of my past lives, concerning two girls in 18th-century England. I’m still seeking a publisher for that short story.

CL: What/who is your favorite book/author of all time? Why?

SS: For spiritual insight and life guidance, I have two favorites: “A Course in Miracles” by Helen Schucman, and “You Are the Answer: Discovering and Fulfilling Your Soul’s Purpose” by Michael J Tamura, who was my clairvoyance teacher for many years. Both are so deep, they continue enlightening no matter how many times you read them.

CL: What makes your work stand out from other authors in the same genre?

SS: I write short and sweet. Much self-help advice is sincere but not as easy to read as mine is. I write from personal experience, lessons learned the hard way. Also, unlike the famous authors and the dead ones, I am available for personal spiritual consultations, including psychic readings, energy healings and lessons in fall prevention and meditation, here in metro Atlanta and via phone and internet.

following is an excerpt from Sarah Siegel’s chapter

of “Activate Your Life, Volume IV: 25

Transformational Exercises From Coaches Around the World”

Grounding yourself can help bring you into the here and now. It can make you feel stronger and more stable. Absolutely anyone can benefit from grounding.

I was a scatterbrain and a space cadet whenever anything triggered my traumas, and I found that almost every interaction with people did just that. This grounding technique was one of the very first skills I learned in clairvoyance classes back in 1997.

After my first weekend intensive, when I got in my car to leave, and slammed my car door shut, the handle came off in my hand! It had been jiggly but had shown no sign of coming off before. I immediately recognized the power I had in my body as a result of that class.

Of course, I did not stay grounded all the time; for being ungrounded was my habit of 30-odd years. Changing a habitual behavior that happens every single second requires patience, amusement, and

self-compassion. So by 2022, am I grounded every single second? No. But I am grounded a lot more often than I was before.

To ground, I don't have to stand

barefoot on soil (although it is nice, especially on a warm beach). I can sit in my house and still connect to the earth. How is that possible? The connection is not physical; it is energy. This kind of energy passes through floors, walls, and everything. You can even ground from the 50th floor or from an airplane.

In most houses today, each electrical outlet on the wall has three wires behind it. One wire carries a current of electricity from your electrical panel (sometimes called a breaker box) to the outlet. The second wire carries electricity back to the electrical panel. The third wire carries excess electricity to the ground for safety. Earth can absorb extra energy without being harmed, but your appliances cannot. Now wouldn't it be great for your body-mind-spirit to have a grounding wire—a mechanism to remove excess energy so that you don't get frazzled, fried, or burned out like the smoking black shell of a charred hair dryer?

From 8-acre food halls to new pancake cafes and wine tasting rooms, Cobb County has seen plenty of local dining news just in time for the warmer months ahead. Check out the latest dining news below and get to eatin’!

The Atlanta Braves are offering even more food and beverage options this year with a brand new food hall, the Outfield Market , in Truist Park. The new space will consist of eight food stalls, featuring a variety of Braves Country vendors alongside new options from TruistPark catering partner Delaware North.

A new Closer’s Bar is also opening just inside the Chop House Gate in the premier location adjacent to the Coors

Light Chop House. The new open-air bar will serve an elevated cocktail menu with rotating signature drinks and feature a custom mural.

Smyrna Coffee , a new coffee shop on Atlanta Road, opened in February to a wave of support from the public. The coffee joint offers a variety of classics, from espresso to macchiato to cold brew. On the food menu, customers can start their morning with a baked item including

Danishes, muffins and bagels from the bakery. There are also breakfast sandwiches served on bagels and croissants, such as the classic bacon, egg and cheese.

Top: Smyrna Coffee lead barista Sol Auston pours foam in the shape of a leaf on top of a brown butter toffee latte.

Bottom: A rendering of 8-acre food hall the Outfield Market at Truist Park. A photo of the new food hall was unavailable at press time.

Divinely Elegant Vines, a wine tasting room and bottle shop founded by local couple Jessena and Michael Waldo, welcomed customers to its Cincinnati Junction location March 15. The new tasting room is designed to offer an intimate and educational wine experience, featuring 12 varietals, including rosé, Cabernet Sauvignon, chardonnay, pinot noir and a red blend. Patrons can pair their wines with locally sourced meats and cheeses from The Spotted Trotter, an Atlantabased butcher shop and boutique charcuterie house, as well as ready-made charcuterie boards from Palmer’s Eatery, just across the railroad tracks.

Fluffy Fluffy, a dessert cafe chain serving Japanesestyle soufflé pancakes, opened its third Georgia location near the Roswell Road-Johnson Ferry intersection at

4400 Roswell Road, #146. The other two restaurants are in Duluth and Tucker. Guests can choose from nine flavors and toppings for their pancakes. The most popular toppings, owner Tri Phan said, are classic tiramisu, a coffee-flavored soufflé topped with cream, fruit and cacao powder; crème brûlée, topped with a thin layer of torched crystallized sugar and a scoop of vanilla ice cream; and Nutella banana, two classic soufflé pancakes with bananas and the classic hazelnut spread.

Fluffy Fluffy owner Tri Phan

pancakes from the

to a plate.

Top: Owners Jessena and Michael Waldo stand outside of Divinely Elegant Vines, a wine tasting room and bottle shop set to open in Austell this month.

Bottom:

transfers soufflé

griddle

Upscale Italian restaurant Gianni & Mac’s Ristorante Piazza Nostra opened in Marietta Square as the first restaurant to open in the new Bridger Properties development on Church Street. The restaurant, owned and operated by Italy native Gianni Betti and well-known restauranteur Randy McCray, centers around three signature offerings: a charcuterie bar with hand-selected Italian meats and cheeses, a traditional Parmigiano Reggiano wheel for tableside cacio e pepe and a roaming gelato cart serving custom sundaes.

Gianni Betti prepares the charcuterie bar at Gianni & Mac’s Ristorante Piazza Nostra in Marietta.

Thunderbolts

Rated N/A

In theaters May 2

When the American people and government realize that the Avengers are no longer coming to save them, Bucky Barnes puts together a group of super villains — Yelena, Red Guardian, John Walker, Ghost and Taskmasker — to become America’s new heroes. Marvel’s newest release starring many big names, including Sebastian Stan, David Harbour and Florence Pugh.

Lilo & Stitch

Rated N/A

In theaters May 23

A live-action adaptation of Disney’s 2002 animated classic “Lilo & Stitch.” The story of a lonely Hawaiian girl and fugitive alien who helps to mend her broken family.

Mission: Impossible –The Final Reckoning

Rated PG-13, In theaters May 23

The eighth installment of the “Mission: Impossible” franchise starring Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt. This film is the direct sequel to “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning.” In this new release, the plot follows that of part one where Ethan Hunt and his Impossible Missions team must track down a dangerous weapon before it falls into the wrong hands.

Another

Rated R

Simple Favor

Streaming on Amazon Prime Video

May 1

The sequel to 2018’s “A Simple Favor,” this action thriller/comedy follows the return of Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman. Along with the glamorous guests, expect murder and betrayal to RSVP for a wedding with more twists and turns than the road from the Marina Grande to the Capri town square. Along with Kendrick and Lively, the film stars Henry Golding reprising his role as Sean Townsend, Michele Morrone and more.

Miss Austen

Rated PG

Streaming on PBS Video, Amazon Prime and Hulu+

May 4

This limited four-part series takes place in 1830, 13 years after Jane Austen’s death in 1817. The plot follows Jane’s sister Cassandra (Keeley Hawes) as she helps her friend Isabella (Rose Leslie) who is about to lose her home following her father’s death. Cassandra is there to help her friend, but her real motive is to find a stash of private letters which, in the wrong hands, could destroy Jane’s reputation.

Fear Street: Prom Queen

Rated R Streaming on Netflix

May 23

Set in 1988, in the fourth installment of the blood-soaked “Fear Street” franchise, prom season at Shadyside High is underway. When the school’s it girls are busy with their campaigns for the crown, a gutsy outsider is unexpectedly nominated to the court, other girls start mysteriously disappearing and the class of ‘88 is suddenly in for a crazy prom night. This sequel features Ariana Greenblatt (“Barbie”), India Fowler (“The Nevers”), Suzanna Son (“The Idol”) and more.

The Lost Queen

By Aimee Phan

Releases May 6

YA fantasy duology inspired by Vietnamese lore, weaving magic, sisterhood and self-discovery.

Jolie Lam, a high school sophomore in San Jose, is friendless and ostracized for being the weird girl with a fortuneteller grandfather. Suddenly her life takes a dramatic turn for the better when she saves the school’s it-girl, Huong Pham, during a haunting vision of her own.

Jolie and Huong become friends and as their bond deepens, they unlock telepathic abilities, fluency in Vietnamese and start seeing eerie premonitions. This leads them to discovering that they are the reincarnates of legendary queens and goddesses, the Trung Sisters. The girls must navigate dreams and portals to piece together their past lives and reclaim their immortal elements before their ancient enemies strike again. But all is not what it seems, and Jolie must determine friend from foe, truth from lie and ultimately right from wrong in this battle for all she loves and the fate of the world.

I Can’t Even Think Straight

By Dean Atta

Releases May 6

From the Stonewall Award–winning author of “The Black Flamingo” comes a new novel in verse, in which a biracial young man confronts issues of race, class and sexuality.

Though Kai desperately wants to come out at school, he keeps himself closeted for his best friend, Matt. He is also queer, but afraid of getting kicked out by his religious parents if they knew—so he stays closeted and asks Kai to do the same.

Kai unhappily goes along with it, but when a rumor goes around that Kai and Matt are together, Matt starts acting differently toward Kai anyway.

Kai’s other best friend, Vass, is nonbinary and doesn’t care who knows it. Vass feels that Matt is a negative influence, putting a damper on Kai’s identity—but maybe that’s just Vass’s crush on Kai talking.

Caught between his best friends, Kai turns to writing to express his emotions. But when he explodes, he puts everything at risk.

And the Trees Stare Back

By Gigi Griffis

Releases May 13

Nobody who gets lost in the cursed forest at the edge of Vik’s remote Estonian Village ever comes back. Until Vik’s sister stumbles through the tree line five years after vanishing, without having aged a day.

It’s 1989, Soviet Estonia. Communist regimes are crumbling across Europe, but in 16-yearold Vik’s isolated Estonian village, eyes are everywhere and soldiers threaten those who so much as dream of dissent.

The villagers’ words are sharp with accusations of witchcraft and within the cursed forest lurks Soovana, the bog spirit with lantern eyes that lure villagers beyond where anyone can reach them. Five years ago, he took Vik’s sister, Anna, and Vik has felt cursed herself every day since. When Anna finally returns, it’s a miracle. A miracle, or a lie. Worn down by years of grappling with shame, guilt and PTSD, Vik has wanted nothing more than to hold her younger sister once again. But, as unsettling inconsistencies between the girl who left and the one who’s come back reveal themselves, it’s clear that no one’s out of the woods.

Rooted in real history with a speculative twist, this book raises powerful questions about whose humanity counts and how to survive if the governing body decides that yours doesn’t. This YA folk-horror melds unexplored history with hot-button themes and authentic depictions of OCD and PTSD.

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Cobb Life Events May Events

NFC Fight Night

When: Friday, May 16, 6 p.m.

Where: The Battery Atlanta Cost: $50

Visit Sports & Social for an action-packed evening of live professional and amateur MMA and muay Thai fights right next to Truist Park. There will be over 12 fights, several bars with all your favorite drinks, a full food menu and an after-party next door at PBR. General admission tickets are $50, a premium reserved cageside table for eight is $1,600, premium reserved cageside table for four is $800 and cageside seats in the pit are $250. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see actual fights! The fights begin at 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online.

Community Volunteer Day

When: Monday, May 19, 9 a.m. to noon

Where: Smith-Gilbert Gardens, Kennesaw Cost: Free

Visit the Smith-Gilbert Gardens for a day of clean up and beautification of the gardens. Attendance is free and required to participate. Children are welcome to join with parents. Tools and gloves will be provided to volunteers, but wear pants to help protect your knees and layer as necessary. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be in nature and do much needed volunteer work! Visit smithgilbertgardens.com to register.

M2R TrailFest

When: Saturday, May 10

Where: Downtown Marietta

Cost: Free

From large scale murals to art drops and bridge installs, Marietta’s arts scene will come alive during the annual M2R TrailFest, featuring interactive art, live music, singing and dancing for all ages. The festival will span across downtown Marietta, along portions of the Mountain River Trail and in public parks. Visit m2rtrailfest.com for more information.

Cobb Life Events

Yoga in the Gallery

When: Sundays, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Where: Marietta Cobb Museum of Art

Cost: $20

Experience tranquility and grounding while you surround yourself with inspiring works of art for 1-hour beginner yoga classes. Attendees must be 12 and up. Grab a yoga mat and don’t miss this unique opportunity to blend art and wellness! Visit mariettacobbartmuseum.org to register.

Acworth Farmers Market

When: Every Friday, 8 a.m. to noon

Where: Logan Farm Park

Cost: Free

The 2025 Historic Downtown Acworth Farmers Market has returned. Marketgoers can choose from a wide variety of garden-ripe Georgia-grown vegetables, eggs, cheese, bedding plants, fresh-baked bread, pies, cakes, honey and jams each week. The market is in the Logan Farm Park Expansion. Don’t miss out on fresh produce, kitchen staples that can’t be found at your local supermarket and being a part of the community.

15th Annual Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival

When: Friday, May 9, 5 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, May 10, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Logan Farm Park

Cost: Entrance is free

Come and enjoy a concert under the stars and BBQ competition at the Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival in Acworth! Taste your way through some of the best BBQ in the Southeast! Register your cook team space for the contest at smokeonthelake.org.

Cobb Life Events

Smyrna Food Truck Tuesdays

When: Tuesdays, 5 to 9 p.m.

Where: Taylor-Brawner Park

Cost: Varies

Enjoy the offerings from a weekly gathering of quality mobile gourmet trucks and a bit of sweet mixed in and music, too. Entry is free!

Indie Film Night

When: Wednesday, May 14, 6:30 p.m.

Where: The Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

Cost: $8

Enjoy an evening of independent filmmaking at its finest at the Strand Theatre. Hosted by Cobb International Film Festival, the event showcases a diverse selection of films, from emerging and established filmmakers, hand-picked for their originality, creativity and thought-provoking themes. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover new voices in independent film and experience cinema like never before! The first film starts at 7:30 p.m. Visit cobbfilmfestival.com/indiefilmnights for more information or to purchase tickets.

The Murder Mystery Co’s Dinner Theatre Show

When: Saturday, May 31, 7 p.m.

Where: Hudson Grille, Kennesaw

Cost: $69

Enjoy a hilarious, interactive murder mystery show, where you might just be the killer! Scott Cramton will host a thrilling mystery experience where you can mingle with intriguing suspects, uncover shocking secrets and savor a mouthwatering three-course meal. Visit murdermysteryco.com/dinnertheater/atlanta/ to purchase tickets.

Brick Fest Live

When: Saturday, May 10, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Cobb Galleria Centre

Cost: $25 to $35

Enjoy life-size LEGO brick displays, hands-on building activities, contests, games, and shopping during Brick Fest Live. Ticket prices vary depending on time of purchase and seat location. Children 2 and under are free, but paid admission is required for all attendees ages 3 and up. Don’t miss out on this fun experience! Visit brickfestlive.com purchase tickets.

Transformation is on the Horizon

Big changes are coming!

The Cobb Galleria Centre is undergoing a major expansion and renovation, elevating the experience for tradeshows, meetings, and special events. The transformation project breaks ground this fall and is slated for completion in early 2027.

Get ready for a reimagined and immersive event space right in the heart of Cobb.

2025 Best of Cobb Celebration

Photography by ROBIN RAYNE

Over 1,000 Cobb Countians gathered at Jim R Miller Park March 20 for the 2025 Best of Cobb Celebration, presented by Superior Plumbing.

The ticketed event, hosted by Cobb Life Magazine and the Marietta Daily Journal, celebrated the winners of the reader-decided contest that garnered a recordbreaking 330,500 votes in just 3.5 weeks, half the usual voting period. Attendees enjoyed delicious food and giveaways from over 60 winners’ booths, as well as live entertainment.

Saint Patrick’s Day at the Avenue East Cobb

Photography by ROBIN RAYNE

Lads, lassies and little leprechauns had a shamrockin’ evening at Avenue East Cobb’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration March 14.

Attendees enjoyed live music by Taylor Harlow, dance by the Drake School of Irish Dance, face painting, huggable llamas and, for parents, green beer.

1. Andrew Hyder and daughter Izzy enjoy the music.

2. Adrian Stubbs, of Marietta, whispers a secret to a llama named Quinn.

3. Walter and Misty Munn dance with daughter Isla.

8th Annual Adult Spelling Bee at the Strand Theatre

Photography by ROBIN RAYNE

Community leaders gathered in funny costumes for the eighth annual Adult Spelling Bee March 14 at the Strand Theatre in Marietta Square.

The bee raised $125,499 to benefit Communities In Schools, a school dropout prevention and intervention nonprofit that offers resources to students in need. Their Marietta and Cobb County branch serves over 27,000 students throughout the county.

4. Dancers from the Drake School of Irish Dance at Avenue East Cobb’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

5. Grayson Barry sports his Irish shades.

6. Avenue East Cobb’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

Where To Find Cobb Life Magazine

Pick up your copy of Cobb Life Magazine at these convenient locations:

MARIETTA

h MARIETTA WELCOME CENTER

4 Depot St NE, Marietta, GA 30060His

h MARIETTA WINE MARKET

18 Powder Springs St SW, Marietta, GA 30064

h SHELL 556 Roswell St NE, Marietta, GA 30060

h MARIETTA DINER 306 Cobb Pkwy S, Marietta, GA 30060

h BERNHARD’S GERMAN BAKERY & DELI 1592 Atlanta Rd SE #110, Marietta, GA 30060

h J. CHRISTOPHER’S 1275 Powers Ferry Rd, Marietta, GA 30067

h GABRIEL’S RESTAURANT AND BAKERY 800 Whitlock Ave NW #135, Marietta, GA 30064

h WOMENS CENTER KENNESTONE 330 Kennestone Hospital Blvd, Marietta, GA 30060

h WILLIAMS BROTHERS BAR-BQMARIETTA 1425 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062

h J. CHRISTOPHER’S 2100 Roswell Rd STE 2116, Marietta, GA 30062

h HEYWOODS PROVISION COMPANY 2145 Roswell Rd #140, Marietta, GA 30062

h MCCLESKEY-EAST COBB FAMILY YMCA

1055 E Piedmont Rd, Marietta, GA 30062

h CACTUS CAR WASH MARIETTA

4216 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062

h FABRIC & FRINGE WAREHOUSE

h 2440 Canton Rd, Marietta, GA 30066

h MARIETTA FISH MARKET 3185 Canton Rd, Marietta, GA 30066

h TIM D LEE SENIOR CENTER 3332 SANDY PLAINS RD, MARIETTA, GA 30066

h PARC 999 HOOD RD, MARIETTA

h ACORN HOME & GARDEN

3870 Due West Rd NW, Marietta, GA 30064

h OKINAWA STEAK & SUSHI – MARIETTA 3718 Dallas Hwy, Marietta, GA 30064

h OTTER’S CHICKEN

3625 Dallas Hwy #690, Marietta, GA 30064

h THE WING CAFÉ & TAP HOUSE 2145 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062

h COBB HARDWARE

380 ROSWELL ST, MARIETTA

h DOUGH IN THE BOX 3184 Austell Rd SW, Marietta, GA 3000

h AQUARAMA

565 Powder Springs St., Marietta, Ga

h HOBOKEN CAFÉ

688 Whitlock Ave, Marietta, Ga

h FOOD DEPOT

250 Windy Hill Rd SE Marietta

h WHOLE FOODS - MERCHANTS WALK 1311 Johnson Ferry Rd #580, Marietta, GA 30068

h MOUNTAIN VIEW REGIONAL LIBRARY

3320 Sandy Plains Rd., Marietta, GA 30066

SMYRNA

h THE SMYRNA TEAM @ KELLER WILLIAMS

3350 Atlanta Rd, Smyrna, GA 30080

h ADVENTURE OUTDOORS

2500 S Cobb Dr SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

h SMYRNA COMMUNITY CENTER

200 Village Green Cir SE, Smyrna, GA

30080

h SMYRNA CITY HALL

2800 King St SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

h ATKINS PARK TAVERN

2840 Atlanta Rd SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

h THOMPSON BROTHERS BARBEQUE 2445 Cobb Pkwy SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

h VICKERS ACE HARDWARE

881 CONCORD RD, SMYRNA

h Food Depot

3205 South Cobb Dr SE Smyrna

h Smyrna Public Library 100 Village Green Cir SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

ATLANTA

h JACK’S NEW YORKER DELI 4691 S Atlanta Rd SE #150, Atlanta, GA 30339

POWDER SPRINGS

h CITY OF POWDER SPRINGS 1114 RICHARD D SAILORS PKWY, POWDER SPRINGS, 30127

h POWDER SPRINGS LIBRARY 4181 Atlanta St., Powder Springs, GA 30127

KENNESAW

h J. CHRISTOPHER’S

2700 Town Center Dr, Kennesaw, GA 30144

h HONEYSUCKLE BAKERY

2825 S. MAIN STREET, KENNESAW GA, 30144

h CITY OF KENNESAW

2529 J O STEPHENSON AVE, KENNESAW, GA 30144

h Whole Foods

h 1300 Ernest W Barrett Pkwy NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144

ACWORTH

h NORTH COBB SENIOR CENTER 3900 S. Main Street, Acworth, GA 30101

h FUSCO’S VIA ROMO I TALIAN TRATTORIA

4815A S Main St, Acworth, GA 30101

h ACWORTH CITY HALL

4415 Senator Russell Avenue, Acworth, GA 30101

h ACWORTH COMMUNITY CENTER 4361 Cherokee St, Acworth, GA 30101

h 1885 GRILL ACWORTH 4438 CHEROKEE ST, ACWORTH, GA 30101

h DADDY’S COUNTRY KITCHEN

3485 Acworth Due West Rd #200, Acworth, GA 30101

h HENRY’S 4835 N. Main St, Acworth, Ga 30101

MABLETON

h FOOD DEPOT

5345 Floyd Rd SW Mableton

AUSTELL

h FOOD DEPOT

1355 EAST WEST CONNECTOR, AUSTELL

Celebrating

Nearly a decade of Braves Country in Cobb

In honor of the Atlanta Braves’ ninth year at Truist (formerly SunTrust) Park this season, here are scenes from Opening Day at the beloved ballpark Friday, March 31, 2017.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARIETTA DAILY JOURNAL STAFF.

Top Left: A young Atlanta Braves fan looks up and admires the statue of late knuckleballer Phil Niekro outside Truist Park on opening day in 2017. Top Right: Brothers Rami and Ari Fabian cheer on the Atlanta Braves as they take the field to take on the New York Yankees in SunTrust Park. Bottom Left: William Gallager, 9, waits for the gates to open at SunTrust Park. Bottom Middle: Atlanta Braves outfielder Ender Inciarte and shortstop Dansby Swanson get fired up as they prepare to take the field against the Yankees in SunTrust Park. Bottom Right: Atlanta Braves' legend Hank Aaron tosses the first pitch to former manager Bobby Cox as former pitcher John Smoltz looks on during opening day at SunTrust Park in 2017.