Alpharetta November 2017

Alpharetta

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

NOVEMBER 2017

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HOME SWEET HERE CONVERSATION ON DESIGN THE PERFECT SATURDAY

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READERS’

CHOICE 2017

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2 01 7 R E A D E R S ’ C H O I C E AWA R DS CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESSES! • BEST HOME DESIGNERS • BEST FINE DINING • BEST CASUAL DINING • BEST SALON • BEST HOME REMODELERS • BEST FAMILY PHYSICIAN • BEST DENTIST • BEST COSMETIC SURGEON • BEST REALTOR • BEST BUILDER • AND MANY MORE!

2 ROUNDS STARTING OCTOBER 1ST Round 1: October 1st-25th Round 2: November 1st-30th NOMINATE your favorite businesses!

The top 5 businesses in each category will move to Round 2.

VOTE for your favorite business among the top 5 nominees. Voting ends at 5pm on November 30th.

A $100.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE

will be randomly awarded to a reader who has submitted a complete ballot.

GO TO:

www.AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

TODAY TO NOMINATE / VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE BUSINESSES!

No secret, just…

100 OFF

$

REC E I V E $ 1 00 O F F YO U R COOL S C UL P TI NG T R E AT M E N T When you mention Alpharetta Lifestyle

Give a GIFT that keeps giving all year long...

HOLIDAY GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!

(770) 393-9000 1825 OLD ALABAMA ROAD, SUITE 201 • ROSWELL • ASC-PSD.COM • FIND US ON

Offering General - Cosmetic & Surgical Dermatology CoolSculpting™ • Ultherapy® • THERMIva® • THERMIdry® • THERMIsmooth® • THERMItight® • Intraceuticals Oxygen Facial • Rejuvapen™ • Hydrafacial™ Botox & Injectable Fillers • Cellfina ™ • Kybella™ • IPL / BBL - Photo Facials • Permanent Make-up • Laser Hair Removal • Laser Genesis • Laser Facial & Leg Vein treatments

Lifestyle Letter

Lifestyle Letter

NOVEMBER 2017

H

ave you voted yet? Everyone here at Alpharetta Lifestyle is pretty excited about our first ever Readers’ Choice contest, where you speak up and let the world know all your favorite places to shop, eat and do business in our community. This month, go to our website, click the link and vote for your fave.

Winners will be splashed out in our February issue. Do you have a go-to coffee shop?

A must-see medical provider? A car dealer you return to again and again? Let us know.

Head to our website when you’re done reading this juicy issue and have your say! Voting ends 5 p.m. November 30 (which is my birthday, so I'll be celebrating, helping tally your votes...the next day).

In the meantime, enjoy this issue focusing on the HOME.My home is full of our collections of books, vintage games, ancient Chinese checkerboards and cool old gumball machines. One of my favorite pieces of furniture is an antique Chinese trousseau cabinet we picked up when we lived in Hong Kong. The merchant explained that the bride's family would pack her personal items and collected home furnishings in this cabinet and her brothers would carry it to the happy couple's new home. We use it as a bar cabinet storing glassware and booze...perhaps my own personal trousseau?

Enjoy November and have a Happy Thanksgiving. Don't forget to head to our website and vote! xo

PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | Jnewman@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Sue Collins | Scollins@LifestylePubs.com SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | Karyn.Slovin@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jeff Herr, Christy Lee, Sydney Lindsey, Kendall Stowell, Robin Sullivan Creative, Karyn Wofford CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christy Lee, Nicole Stephens, Carrie Whitney

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor | Janeane Thompson

EDITORIAL MANAGER EDITORIAL

| Nicolette Martin

| Victoria Perry, Lindsey Howard

AD MANAGER AD COORDINATORS

Sue G. Collins, Editor

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

| Chad Jensen

| Cyndi Harrington, Andrea Thomas Alicia Huff, Adella Wrisinger | Cyndi King, Jessica Sharky, Dana Rudolph, Emily Stout

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

PUBLISHER SUPPORT

| Melanie Carlisle

EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPERS

ON THE COVER We feel more relaxed just gaz-

ing at this beautiful tub. Designer Diane John-

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

son helped the homeowner chose this after a year-long renovation. Her story is on page 26.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTY LEE. CHRISTYLEE-PHOTOGRAPHY.COM

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AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

JOIN US

TALK TO US

| Randa Makeen

| Michael O’Connell

| Hanna Park, Scott Lavigne

514 W 26th St, Kansas City, MO 64108 Proverbs 3:5-6 Alpharetta Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Alpharetta’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Alpharetta Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

November 2017

Departments

26

10

Good Times

12

Around Town

18

Driver’s Notebook

20

Hot Spot

30

Healthy Lifestyle

32

Travel Destination

36

Renovate & Refine

38

Realty Report

40

Lifestyle Calendar

42

Parting Thoughts

22 Editor's Picks

Local designers offer up their favorites. We chose ours.

26 Conversation on Design

Diane Johnson renovates a Windward home from top to bottom.

18

22

Lifestyle Publications Alabama | Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Maryland | Michigan | Minnesota | Missouri Montana | Nevada | North Carolina | Ohio | Oklahoma | Oregon | South Carolina | Tennessee | Texas | Utah | Virginia | Washington

32

Healthy Living Starts with Healthy Breathing

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Ask about Special Discounts for Alpharetta Lifestyle readers!

ALPHARETTA

I MILTON I JOHNS CREEK

(770) 765-0622 I MILTON-HVAC.COM

Good Times

Lifestyle Community

Lifestyle Publications staff gathered with advertisers, community leaders and friends at Stone's Cuisine & Cocktails on Old Alabama Road in Johns Creek for an evening of tasting and networking. The jumbo lump crab cakes stole the show, right behind our publisher Jim Newman and Ad Manager Karyn Slovin!

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AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

From the Simplest to the Most Complex Vascular Care.

Northside Vascular Surgery is a full-service vascular surgery and endovascular therapy practice that specifically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the veins and arteries.

Northside Vascular Surgery offers state-of-the-art care in providing the full-spectrum of vascular and endovascular services for:

Our compassionate, board-certified physicians, Dr. Catalin Harbuzariu, Dr. Siddharth Patel, and Dr. Edward Kang bring years of experience working at some of the leading institutions in the field, and offer minimally-invasive, state-of-the-art procedures to treat the entire scope of vascular diseases, from the simplest to the most complex. We offer three convenient locations to serve the communities throughout Greater Atlanta and North Georgia.

• Carotid Disease

• Aortic Aneurysms • Peripheral Artery Disease • Renal and Mesenteric Disease • Venous Disease • Dialysis Access • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

(770) 292-3490 • NVS-GA.com 980 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 1040 Atlanta, GA 30342

460 Northside Cherokee Blvd., Suite 100 Canton, GA 30115

1505 Northside Blvd., Suite 2400 Cumming, GA 30041

www.northside.com

Please Join Us for a Complimentary Gourmet Meal

de Chao

DISCOVER THE NEW RULES OF RETIREMENT PLANNING

dnesday, nnesaw

Presented by Financial Advisor, Bo Gibbs.

Thursday, Alpharetta

You and up to 3 guests are cordially invited to a special Complimentary Gourmet immediately following our Understanding Different Retirement Plans Workshop.

Meal

Choose the date and location that works best for you: GIBBS

Nov. 2nd at

Nov. 6th & Nov. 8th at

Nov. 14th & Nov. 16th at

Nov. 28th & Nov. 29th at

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Marietta

FINANCIAL GROUP Annuities • Insurance • Retirement Planning

Wednesday,

Space is limited! Call Today: 770-753-6359 Presentation starts at 6pm. Please arrive by 5:45

Investment advisory services offered through Gibbs Wealth Management, a registered investment advisor in the state of Georgia.

Insurance products and services are offered through Gibbs Financial Group, GWM and GFG are affiliated Companies.

November 2017 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

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Around Town

AROUND TOWN

WHO'S THE BEST?

breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and kid's meals all using high quality ingredients, with no added preservatives. Each meal's label

Alpharetta Lifestyle is thrilled to announce our first ever Readers’

lists the ingredients and macros, and is scan-able into nutrition

Choice contest, where you speak up and let the world know all your

tracking apps. Based on your lifestyle needs, you can choose to

favorite places to shop, eat and do business in our community. This

eat your meal in the store, you can take a few meals with you to

month, go to our website, click the link and nominate your top spots.

go or you can choose to go all out and do our Perfect Week Meal

Then, next month you'll head back to that same site and vote for

Plan. Team Members are happy to help you figure out what works

your all-time preferred businesses that will be among our Readers’

best for you. 5530 Windward Pkwy. EatFitGo.com

Choice Awards, announced in the March issue. Do you have a go-to coffee shop? A must-see medical provider? A car dealer you return to again and again? Let us know. Head to our website when you’re done reading this juicy issue and have your say!

EATING WELL, TO GO

OPERA MADE EASY CinéBistro Town Brookhaven is taking its Atlanta guests to the opera. Continuing select weekends through spring, the theatre will showcase The Metropolitan Opera Live broadcasts in HD, with encore screenings accompanying each premiere. Presented in

Eat Fit Go provides a simple and delicious solution to eating

partnership with Fathom Events, the Met Opera season consists

healthy on the go! Our chef-inspired meals are prepared in our

of 10 productions on stage at Lincoln Center in New York, with

offsite kitchen and are delivered to the store daily. They offer

CONTINUED >

New Location!

11685 Alpharetta Highway Suite 150, Roswell, GA 30076 Monday – Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

For an appointment call: 770-619-3860 We are proud to now serve the Roswell and North Fulton communities. Currently offering Urgent Care services, you’ll find a commitment to personalized care, with a focus on communication. For your busy lifestyle, we offer extended office hours and weekend appointments to handle minor emergencies when a trip to the hospital is either unnecessary or inconvenient.

We accept most insurance plans, and offer a convenient location for you and your family.

Our Services • Sore throats, fevers, ear aches & sinus infections • Back pain, ankle sprains & broken bones • Rash & burn care • Allergic reactions, including insect bites • All minor emergencies

NorthsideUrgentCare.com 12

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

Real patients...

beautiful results!

New Patients Welcome!

From a simple filling to a full smile we are here for you and your family.

Jill M. Golsen, DMD 2016 Past President of the Georgia Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

770.667.0669 • www.GolsenDental.com 3400-A Old Milton Parkway, Suite 430 • Alpharetta, GA

Around Town

(CON TI N UED)

the next screening featuring Thomas Adès “The Exterminating Angel” on November 18. Other highlights of the season include a new production of Tosca from David McVicar, and Plácido Domingo returns to the stage in the rarely performed Luisa Miller. The legendary Michael Fabiano and Sonya Yoncheva will reunite on stage in a performance of the world’s most popular opera, La Bohème. Tickets with adult matinee pricing ($14) are now on sale via CineBistro.com/Brookhaven and at the theatre box office,1004 Town Blvd.

ART AND GIVING Art For Art, has teamed up with an international charity to bring Atlantans a unique opportunity this Thanksgiving: take home your favorite works of art produced by talented student artists from underserved communities in Africa and support the students’ visual arts classes in Africa. The “Art For Africa” Exhibition opens on Saturday, November 25 in the exhibition space at The Ballog, an artisans market in Serenbe. On display will be artwork from Africa, which visitors can take home. Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to connect not only with the drawings and paintings, but also with the student artists who created them, through short bios that are included with each piece.

For more information

about this and other Art For Art exhibits, visit ArtForArt.world

NEW DOC AT DENTAL ZONE Johns Creek Children's Dental Zone welcomes Dr. LaGree. He completed his undergraduate education at the University at Buffalo with a Bachelor's in Biomedical Sciences and a minor in Pharmacy and Toxicology. Dr. LaGree continued on to receive his Doctor of Dental Surgery with a Pediatric minor from the Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. Then spent two years specializing in pediatrics at the Children's Hospital of Michigan in Detroit.

Throughout his education he has been very active in community service and held leadership roles in multiple outreach CONTINUED >

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AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

We’ve painted

Thousands of homes in Atlanta,

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MENTION ALPHARETTA LIFESTYLE TO RECEIVE THESE OFFERS Cannot be combined with other specials or discounts. One coupon per home. Valid for limit time.

Around Town

(CON TI N UED)

focused organizations. These organiza-

R E TA I L G I F T S

|

ACCESSORIES

|

INTERIORS

tions include being the co-founder of the UBSDM Pediatric Club, Buffalo Outreach and Community Assistance, and ASDA at Buffalo. Dr. LaGree has a keen interest in technology, he built his first computer when he was just 15 years old. This interest in technology contributes to his interest in technological advancements throughout dentistry. Outside of the dentist office, in his free time, he also enjoys many different sports, hiking and surfing. 3455 Old Alabama Road.

BETTER THAN EATING OUT This holiday season, raise a glass to the perfect gift for Atlanta’s foodies! Give a curated chef experience with a toast-worthy touch. Each week Garnish & Gather works side-by-side with Atlanta’s best farmers, chefs & artisans to bring creative recipes made with the finest local ingredients straight to your kitchen. G&G’s Be the Chef series lets home cooks recreate signature dishes from Atlanta’s best chefs like Kevin Gillespie of Gunshow, Chris Grossman of Atlas and Kevin Maxey of Superica. Give the gift of delicious home cooking to your favorite foodie this holiday season! When you purchase a gift card val-

IN A

beautiful S P A C E

RIGHT IN JOHNS CREEK

ued at $75 or more, a pair of elegant stemless wine glasses will be included with the gift—these make a great present to unwrap and are the perfect way to toast to the holidays! Promotion runs November 16 through December 13 while supplies last.

FULL SERVICE DESIGN FIRM, UNIQUE FINDS A N D FA B U LO U S D E S I G N D I R E C T I O N !

Order online at GarnishandGather.com

SMART GIRLS Girls Who Code is a national club cre-

Annual Holiday Open House

ated with one goal: to close the gender gap

T H U R S D AY, N O V E M B E R 2 - S U N D AY, N O V E M B E R 5

grades 6 through 12. Please RSVP to erin.

20% OFF ENTIRE STORE

limited computers in the library, participants

H O L I D AY G I F T S , D É C O R , O R N A M E N T S , H O S T E S S G I F T S A N D M O R E !

in technology. This club is open to girls in parks@fultoncountyga.gov to join. Due to are asked to bring a personal laptop if one is available to them. Saturdays, November

9 9 2 5 H AY N E S B R I D G E R O A D 7 7 0 - 74 0 - 8 4 1 4 | W W W. D I A N E J O H N S O N I N T E R I O R S . C O M

18 - December 16. 10:30 AM-12:30 PM. Free ! Alpharetta Branch Library For more information regarding the club as a whole, please visit GirlsWhoCode.com

16

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

Welcome Dr. Bitan Ghosh!

Internal Medicine Practice of Northside is proud to welcome Dr. Bitan Ghosh to our practice. A board-certified physician in internal medicine, Dr. Ghosh is dedicated to serving each patient with compassionate, attentive care. She offers a full range of primary care services for adult patients, including chronic disease management, acute illness care and comprehensive preventative medicine, serving with the time and attention you need to achieve and maintain good health.

Bitan Ghosh, M.D. Board Certified, Internal Medicine

Dr. Ghosh is welcoming new patients, accepts most insurance plans and offers a convenient location for the Greater Atlanta and North Fulton communities.

• • • • •

Welcoming new patients Most insurance plans accepted Same-day appointments available Convenient location Free Parking

Office Location:

10745 Westside Way Suite 125 Alpharetta, GA 30009

Call (770) 410-4610 for an appointment!

InternalMedicinePracticeofNorthside.com

MONEY CAN'T BUY HAPPINESS...

but a financial plan can put you on the right path

Gain Control, Clarity, & Confidence in your Financial Future • Personal Financial Planning • Investment Strategies • Retirement Planning • Insurance Evaluations For your FREE Pathways financial plan, contact us today at EvolutionsFinancial.com or 855.512.5133.

Michael W. Thigpen

President 855.512.5133 | mike@evolutionsfinancial.com

www.EvolutionsFinancial.com 11175 Cicero Dr., Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022 Securities are by licensed individuals offered through Investacorp, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA and SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Investacorp Advisory Services, Inc., an SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm.

November 2017 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

17

Driver’s Notebook

2017 CHEVROLET BOLT EV: The all-new 2017 Chevy Bolt EV is electrifying.

ARTICLE DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON | PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CHEVROLET

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AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

W

hether on a mission to preserve Earth by not contributing emissions, to save money on purchasing the always fluctuating price of gas, to cash in on tax benefits, or

to simply enjoy the use of solely electricity, the all-new 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV is highly impressive.

On a ride from Atlanta to Asheville, North Carolina, I had ample time to get accustomed to the numerous bells and whistles this new subcompact crossover presented while passing the true test— proving the 208-mile journey could make it on one full charge.

And it did, effortlessly.

Chevrolet’s boast of a 238-mile capacity (255 city and 217 highway) was not only confirmed, but appreciated. The smooth ride was perfectly balanced with an aggressive engine when applicable; it punched a class-leading 200 horsepower at 266 lb.-ft. of torque, resulting in going zero to 60 in about 6.5 seconds. So much for the golf cart comparisons.

Presented in two trims, the LT comes with the Electronic Precision Shift, Michelin self-sealing tires, one-pedal driving, Regen On Demand, and a 10.2-inch diagonal color touch-screen, while the Premier takes it up a notch adding surround vision for a birds-eye view and a rear camera mirror.

Charging the Bolt EV is also very simple. For home, the professionally installed AeroVironment 240-volt/32-amp charging unit with a 25-ft cord will get you 25 miles per hour, while a DC Fast Charging station will give you 90 miles in a half hour.

Similar to how a credit card is used to buy gas, every Bolt EV is equipped with a ChargePoint card so that drivers are worry-free with access to thousands of public charging stations. (There are many apps--such as PlugShare--drivers can download to help locate chargers to further ease the mind.)

The Bolt EV's also gracious with numerous amenities to keep owners in tune with the latest technology including 4G LTE WiFi; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; the myChevrolet mobile app to control automobile functions from remote locations; and the optional, highly recommended OnStar response system.

Ultimately, the plethora of awards the Bolt EV has received from various automobile authorities are not only justified, but well deserved. Add Driver’s Notebook to the list.

BASE PRICE: The LT Trim is $37,495; Premium is $41,780 with all

options as reviewed.

GAS MILEAGE: 255 city/217 highway/238 combined

For more information, visit Chevrolet.com .

November 2017 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

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Hot Spot

ARTICLE KARYN WOFFORD

A

s a type 1 diabetic, I'm always on the hunt for deliciously healthful cafes and restaurants. Clean Eatz Alpharetta met all my

expectations:Â simple, fast, modern, delicious and extremely nutritious.

Many of my inventive, health food Pinterest fails can be found on the menu, except they actually mastered them. A great example is their tossed Buffalo Cauliflower with creamy ranch.

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AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | Month 2017

QUICK BITES I like fast food, meaning food that I can grab quickly and eat on the go; not a chain burger and fries joint. Healthy fast food has become quite prominent, but it still can be difficult to find grub that is genuinely good for you. My pancreas doesn't work, so when sugar is snuck into my food, I've got a problem. It's crazy how many "health" foods are loaded with sugar.

Clean Eatz has an awesome snack selection, from their "Good for You" Nachos with low-glycemic sweet potato chips topped with beef, fresh guacamole, salsa, peppers and savory onions, to BBQ Chicken Flatbread smothered in sweet pineapple, melted mozzarella and barbeque sauce with a pleasant zing. My foodie buddy, aka my husband, and I enjoyed a variety of dishes by sharing. Everything was great, but we have some stand out favorites.

DELICIOUS, LIGHT BOWLS If I had to list only one favorite, I'd choose the bowls, because of their versatility. A four-step process helps you customize your meal; choose your base, protein, veggies and sauce. My picks teetered on the lower carb side: Base- cauliflower rice Protein- bison Vegetables- zucchini, asparagus and onions (you can pick three) Sauce- sweet chili

FOR THE HEARTY EATERS My husband likes something he can really sink his teeth into. Clean Eatz burgers are made from lean and filling patties: bison, turkey or black bean. Bison is the perfect happy medium, because it has the same consistency as beef, but is lower in fat and calories. Of course, I took a nibble of my husband’s burger, and the meat had a smooth, buttery juiciness; it's hard to believe it's healthier. While the Clean Eatz Burger is more classic with turkey bacon, lettuce, tomato and cheese, he went for something out-of-the-box: a patty garnished with pineapple, green peppers, and teriyaki sauce. Without being overly sweet, this burger was bursting with fresh flavors that complimented the meat rather than smothering its taste.

SOMETHING IN BETWEEN Sandwiches are perfect when you can't decide between heavier and lighter fare. The Grilled Goat Cheese Sandwich is colorfully stacked with fresh oat bread, squash, tomato and homemade spinach remoulade sauce; when you look at Clean Eatz reviews, you'll notice many foodies are in love with this and the Honey Mustard Chicken Panini on oat bread with turkey bacon, tomato, onion, spinach and smooth honey mustard.

While I don't solely focus on calories, because life is all about balance, it should be noted that Clean Eatz is remarkably able to keep calories extremely reasonable, ranging from 300-500 for sandwiches and burgers, and only 51 for their cauliflower snack. My blood sugar did fantastic as well. If you are in the mood for something quick, healthy, lite or filling, Clean Eatz has a motivational environment and tantalizing treats to keep your diet and taste buds in line.

November 2017 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

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Editor's Picks ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS

P

acked with innovation, the Hästens 2000T

Be Home offers the perfect surface to slice

mattress' responsive support adjusts

up a variety of appetizers or dish out an array

effortlessly to your micro-movements and

of cheeses. A hostess have-to-have. 3872

slight changes in position as you sleep. It's

Roswell Road NE HuffHarrington.com

finished with detailing in brushed aluminum,

A signature design from Atlanta artist Mary

quality piping and double side stitching to

Elizabeth Ellenburg, this chandelier captures

maintain its elegant profile and structure.

the essence of a party as if it were happen-

The frame is made from Swedish pine with

ing right there in that room. The crystals in

a layered mattress (filled with cotton, wool

the chandelier reflect the colors in the room.

and mohair). NaturalSleepMattress.com

Commissions for this piece in color palettes

Atlanta and Alpharetta

of any room available through the art section

Brooke Henze of Sandy Springs served

Milano table and Adelaide chairs from

Entrepreneurship at Duke’s The Fuqua

BoConcept, where you can find modern, yet

School of Business, where she graduated

functional styles for the urban-focused home

with an MBA, and founded Swell Forever™.

featuring

For every purchase, Swell Forever makes

designers like Oki Sato and Karim Rashid. The

a direct donation to their sister non-profit,

high fashion furniture and décor was even fea-

Foster Swell, offering mini grants to chil-

tured at the 2017 New York Fashion Week VIP

dren in foster care to fund extracurricular

Lounge. New at 309 East Paces Ferry Rd NE

elements

from

world-renowned

activities and therapy products. The fund

Lee Industries Leather Fringe Ottoman.

also offers grants to adoptive families to

We love the look of leather fringe—espe-

offset the high costs associated with adop-

cially in an unexpected application, like

tion. We like the Lindsay throw, an everyday

this ottoman. At Nandina Home & Design,

throw made in American Mills and woven

recently moved from Inman Park to 6170

using 100% cotton. The Lindsay comes

Roswell Road in Sandy Springs. Join them

in multiple color options and a classic

for their grand opening celebration Friday,

diamond pattern. SwellForever.com

November 3, 10 a.m. -6 p.m.

The hunky exquisite Chesterfield Leather

The designers at Nandina promise we

sofa by The Ellenburg Chair Company. Every

will be seeing a lot of pattern and color over

piece of furniture is handmade and hand-

the next several years. It’s great that peo-

crafted by a team off artisans who build all

ple are finally being daring and are going

products by hand starting with an 8-way

for large-scale colorful patterns on sofas,

hand-tied process. EllenburgChair.com

chairs, draperies and wall coverings. Bring it!

A handsome combination of white marble and acacia wood, this rectangular tray from

22

of EllenburgChair.com.

as one of the first Directors of Women in

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

NandinaHome.com

Clockwise from top left: Milano table and Adelaide chairs from BoConcept, Swell Forever throws, Lee Industries Leather Fringe Ottoman from Nandina, Chesterfield leather sofa from The Ellenburg, white marble tray from Huff Harrington, Schumacher Acanthus Stripe Wall Covering from Nandina, original art by Mary Elizabeth Ellenburg, innovative sleeping from Natural Sleep Mattress.

November 2017 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

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PRIMARY of

M

I

L

CARE

T

O

N

Welcoming New Patients!

At Primary Care of Milton, we are dedicated to serving the families throughout Milton and North Fulton with the highest standard of care. A proud member of the Milton community himself, Dr. Sharma offers care for adult and pediatric patients, serving with attentive, personalized care in a warm and friendly environment. Dr. Sharma offers a full range of primary care services to keep you and your family healthy, educating and empowering patients to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Most insurance plans accepted

Sidharth Sharma, MD Board Certified, Family Medicine

Phone: 470-639-6340 Fax: 404-250-8096

• Same-day appointments and walk-ins for sick visits • Early morning appointments available • Convenient location

PrimaryCareofMilton.com

OFFICE LOCATION 980 Birmingham Road Suite 304 Milton, GA 30004

Watch The Artist Work We’ll Handle The Rest Life is short. Clean less.

Don’t let clean up get in the way of living your life. Get a thorough, professional cleaning while enjoying the comfort of the same, dedicated cleaner helping with life’s little messes.

Visit MaidRight.com/Roswell or Call 770-676-3086

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AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

Morning Sunshine

Wrap Wrapup upyour your holiday holiday décor décor now and now andsave. save.

SILHOUETTE® WINDOW SHADINGS LUMINETTE® PRIVACY SHEERS

It moves your shades, so you don’t have to

Soften harsh sunlight and save with Make sure your home is holiday ready by ordering beautiful new Make sure your home is holiday ready by ordering beautiful new $$ Fashionably early.

Hunter Douglas fashions.

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Conversation

26

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

on Design

ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTY LEE CONTINUED >

November 2017 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

27

CONVERSATION ON DESIGN (CON TI N U ED)

W

hen

Diane

Johnson

finished

renovating this 9,000 sq. ft home

on Lake Windward two years ago, the homeowner kept the Alpharetta designer on speed dial. Ms. Johnson and her team managed the design during a total home renovation. Builders took the home down to the studs and even replaced the entire outer facade of the house. “The homeowner loved her lot, and didn't want to move homes, but just wanted a dramatic change,” says Diane, whose firm redesigned the two main floors now ranging from traditional to transitional with modern art. The terrace level now is contemporary and opens up to the outdoor terrace overlooking the lake.

For Diane, conversation is crucial to her success--and her clients’ happiness. When Diane started the project, she sat down with the client and discovered the family does a lot of entertaining, hosting company functions and parties. She asked about color and style preferences and together they chose grays and yellows, with subtle silver and gold accents.

On the terrace level, a wall of doors open completely to extend the living space, spilling out into the inviting terrace outside.

Custom details grace the home throughout, like the handrail on the catwalk and front stairwell and stone staircases and fireplaces that warm the transitional home.

9925 Haynes Bridge Rd # 720, Alpharetta

DianeJohnsonInteriors.com

770.740.8414 28

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

November 2017 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

29

Healthy Lifestyle

SAFER FALL road trips ARTICLE CARRIE WHITNEY

N

orth Georgia is known for plenty of scenic motorcycle roads, and fall offers the ideal time for a Sunday ride. For riders from novice

to expert, as well as their passengers, motorcycle safety provides the key to enjoyment. That can mean everything from wearing the right gear and brushing up on riding skills to putting a focus on visibility.

When it comes to safety, education is the first step, according to Thomas J. Komjathy, manager of the Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program, which is part of the Georgia Department of Driver Services and oversees all motorcycle rider licensing in the state, and based in Conyers.

Komjathy urges riders to choose a safe bike by finding one appro-

“My number one tip for a new rider is to enroll in a class and learn

priate to their skill level and size. For example, a new rider does

how to ride there,” he says. The Basic Riders Course, a two-day

not need a turbo-charged 400 horsepower machine. “When some-

Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) program, teaches basic skills

thing goes wrong, it goes wrong fast,” he says. Riders should also

and road strategies to develop ability with a step-by-step process.

recognize their own limits and graduate to more challenging riding

In fact, students begin by learning how to manipulate the controls

environments as comfort and skills increase.

before getting on the bike, then move on to operation, stability and

For many motorcycle enthusiasts, not being noticed by car driv-

riding. There is also a one-day Basic Riders Course 2, which is geared

ers is a common complaint. To offset the problem of a rider’s “small

toward students with some riding experience and can be a useful

profile,” Komjathy says riders can take steps to become easier to see,

riding skills tune-up for even a practiced rider.

such as wearing bright colors or adding more lights to their bikes.

Both courses culminate in the award of a motorcycle license (Class M), something any rider needs to possess to legally hit the road in

Additionally, he says riders can place themselves in positions on road that will allow them to be seen.

Georgia. While a learner’s permit (Class MP) can also be had, it

Passengers can follow these suggestions, too, by wearing a DOT-

comes with a variety of restrictions, such as the prohibition of riding

approved helmet and safe riding gear. And they should practice

at night, on interstates or with a passenger. As a third option, anyone

behaviors like looking over the driver’s shoulder in the direction of

age 18 or older, or age 17 with a parent’s permission, can pass the

turns, staying in line with the ride and keeping feet on the pegs.

Road Skills Test and a written exam to obtain a Class M license.

If riding in a group sounds like it would increase visibility and

Despite the various paths to licensing, Komjathy recommends for-

therefore boost safety, Komjathy says that is not typically the case.

mal motorcycle training for everyone. With 26 years of teaching under

A group of motorcycle riders includes people of various skill levels

his belt, Komjathy says he has never had even an experienced stu-

and can actually add risk factors.

dent leave a class without learning something new. Gaining motorcycle skills on a dirt bike course offers another beneficial possibility. Not only are dirt bikes lighter, the “road” is softer.

Once a rider is ready to hit the pavement, the first rule of safety is to get good gear. That means sporting a helmet, a jacket with protective lining, sturdy pants, boots and full finger gloves.

30

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

“It’s not necessarily any safer than riding by yourself,” he says. When he rides in a group, Komjathy places himself at the back of the pack.

Whether you are a lone wolf or looking for a more social experience, maintaining thoughtful riding practices will keep the winding North Georgia roads safer for travelers on two, three or even four wheels.

MSF-usa.org

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750 Hammond Drive, Bldg. 15 | Suite 300 | Atlanta, Georgia 30328 404-751-8868 | Emily@BrennerLawGroup.com | www.BrennerLawGroup.com November 2017 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

31

Travel Destination

The Perfect Sunday ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY SUE G. COLLINS AND ROBIN SULLIVAN CREATIVE

W

hen the first of the football games

The grand covered porch swings around

started on Saturday during our stay

to a front porch that overlooks Fightingtown

at Cohutta King outside Blue Ridge, I didn’t

Creek, snaking its way through the woods to

cringe, dreading the hullabaloo of crashing

the Ocoee River just above McCaysville.

helmets and babble of network announcers

Inside, an open floorplan unites the fam-

for rest of the weekend. Instead, I grabbed

ily room, chunky dining table for 10 and

my Eno hammock, a book and a drink and

well-supplied kitchen. There are two mas-

walked down through the woods to the

ters each with king beds. The master on the

creek. I’d wander up every now and then

ground floor has a unique rainshower, with

where the guys were posted up in front of

water tumbling over a rocky ledge right onto

the 65” flat screen above the stone mantel on

your tired shoulders. Luxury!

the giant screen porch.

After the first game, out came the snacks from the chef’s kitchen inside and since it was

32

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

Most of the pictures are from a website ART.com and by one of my favorite artists Ryan Fowler.

football season, someone built a fire in the wood

Downstairs, there’s a third king suite adjoin-

fireplace. I drifted down the creek in an inner-

ing a large game room featuring activities were

tube watching the sky. Heaven for one and all.

chosen with the Jones family in mind: foosball,

Cohutta King was build with renters in

air hockey and a poker table well stocked. A

mind. The cabin was build by local builder

door from the walk-out game room leads to an

Keith Sumner who is well known for luxury

8-person hot tub overlooking the creek.

custom cabins near the Blue Ridge area.

At the end of the day, bedding and linens

The bedroom furniture, kitchen table, cabi-

are very high thread count, for a seriously

nets and floors are build with the wood that

good night’s sleep in the quiet woods. “One of

is harvested off the land.

my favorite places to stay when we travel is the

Jodie and Dennis Jones put complete faith

Ritz Carlton,” says Jodie. “Even 15 years ago

in their builder and long-time friend Keith

when we honeymooned I noticed they really

Sumner. “Believe it or not we did not pick out a

focused on keeping the bedding comfortable

THING!” says Jodie. “Keith works very hard to

with the right mattresses and bedding. So

choose properties that are surrounded by great

I wanted guests to like the cabin but I really

views or water. These locations are very diffi-

wanted them to have a good night's sleep and

cult to come across due to the popularity now.

actually feel refreshed during their trip.”

The stairs, floors, cabinets, and even all

Blue Ridge and McCaysville are close

the wood furniture and made by employees

by, with hiking, horseback riding and river

of Keith. Wood is harvested off the land to

sports ready the year around. Though

make these beautiful pieces. Inspiration of

I don’t know why you’d want to leave

the modern rustic feel comes from a trip we

Cohutta King once you’ve posted up with

took with the builder several years ago to

friends, family and fireplaces.

Colorado. The mix of wood, metal, rock, tin

KeithSumner.com

add to the character of the location. We were

RobinSullivanCreative.com

striving for a modern rustic feel.

VRBO.com/909236

November 2017 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

33

Relax. Recharge. Reconnect.

Schedule your next date night.

Alpharetta | Johns Creek | 678.675.0303 collegesitters.com/alpharettaga

“It’s like having a gym membership for your brain.”

Introducing The DecisionPoint Wellness Membership

- Z.A.

We’ve developed an innovative, comprehensive, and integrated solution to obtaining effective mental health help for a fraction of the cost. If you or your children suffer from depression, anxiety, PTSD, bi-polar disorder, excessive stress, trauma, grief, autism, ADHD, eating disorders, or addiction, our team of specialists and therapists can help. Call today to schedule your free wellness assessment.

888.892.8178 OR 404.400.1919 Learn how our DecisionPoint Wellness Membership Plan is changing how people access the care they need and when they need it to handle the challenges of life.

dpwellnesscenter.com | 10700 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek, Georgia 34

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

PASSION. WISDOM. RESULTS.

Personal Injury I Auto Accident Injuries I Wrongful Death

(770) 823-2711 wwattorneys.com

Providing personal legal protection to the families of our community.

Renovate & Refine

Custom designed Headboard by ABID, antique bedside chests

Collected Space.

Cabinets by Kingdom Woodworks

Antique Sconces, Fortuny Fabric Seat Cushion

36

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

Custom Hand Painted Grisaille Mural, Jim Thompson Silk Fabric on Chairs

Wesley Hall Sofa, Emerson Bentley Cocktail Table

European eclectic feels like home

ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY JEFF HERR AND KENDALL STOWELL

FINISHING A

ccentrics is the brick + mortar shop Alison Baker, her mom

Carol, and her sister-in-law Laney collaborate on. Family owned

and operated, It is in the heart of Johns Creek on Old Alabama Road and Jones Bridge Road. Alison's 20-plus years of experience, her unique vision and passion for design keep her in high demand. She

works in many different styles, whether it is traditional, contemporary, or transitional to achieve a perfect fit for each client. Alison lives with her husband Brian and son Braedon in Suwanee and her daughter Bridgette just started at the University of Alabama in their interior design program (hopefully to continue this family tradition!). Find Alison Baker Interior Design + Accentrics at Accentrics-Home.com.

For a home in Chastain Park, the clients came to Alison when they were in blueprint stage and invited her to collaborate with the architect (Harrison Design) and builder (Monte Hewett) to perfect the house plans. They then launched into the interiors marrying the classic architecture to the interior details. The homeowners really wanted something classic – yet unique.

"We were able to incorporate their request with interior architectural details, wood paneled library, barrel vaulted rooms down to the hand painted Grisaille Mural in the Dining Room," says Alison. "We then layered the soothing color palette of mocha, shades of blue, cream and terracotta with carefully selected furnishings and textiles to complement and encompass the entire home.”

For a home on Berkley Lake near Johns Creek, Alison also met the clients during construction. "They were to the point of being overwhelmed with many decisions regarding construction and interior finishes such as lighting, flooring, cabinet and counter selections and more." Alison's team helped pursue the interior layout of furniture and followed through to the furnishing selections. The homeowners were

TOUCH

looking for an architecturally interesting house with a sophisticated

eclectic and collected look. "We feel that this was achieved above and beyond, and the clients were ecstatic with the results,” says Alison.

November 2017 | AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

37

Alpharetta and Milton Realty Report

Realty Report

Neighborhood

Original Price

Sold Price

% Sold/OLP

DOM

Beds

Baths

Manor North

$699,900

$755,265

108%

422

4

4

Webb Bridge Preserve

$739,000

$721,031

98%

661

5

4

East of Main

$746,050

$808,624

108%

6

5

4

The Preserve at North Valley

$749,000

$745,000

99%

7

6

5

Creek Crossing

$750,000

$720,000

96%

134

5

4

White Columns

$777,000

$730,200

94%

211

5

5

East of Main

$764,150

$855,938

112%

0

5

4

Rumson Point

$729,000

$803,045

110%

97

5

4

Glen Abbey

$799,777

$740,000

93%

97

6

5

Emerson Hall

$835,000

$770,000

92%

133

6

6

Windward

$850,000

$782,000

92%

24

6

6

Gramercy Park

$859,000

$864,000

101%

20

6

5

Kingsley Estates

$881,000

$835,000

95%

52

6

6

Stephens Gate

$879,000

$865,000

98%

56

5

6

Kingsley Estates

$896,700

$1,076,941

120%

29

5

5

Taylor Glen

$975,000

$930,000

95%

17

6

6

White Columns

$1,299,999

$1,250,000

96%

103

6

6

The Hayfield

$1,599,000

$1,550,000

97%

600

6

6

Avalon

$1,769,900

$1,685,000

95%

504

4

5

The Manor

$1,999,900

$1,999,900

100%

3

5

5

Representing homes throughout Greater Atlanta

Motivated Seller | Golf Course Living in Windward | 3140 Greatwood Crossing Alpharetta, GA 30005 | MLS #5835931 Connect with us on Social Media

RhondaShellRealEstate.com 38

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

www.RhondaShellRealEstate.com

SOUTHEAST REGION

F IN D YOUR

Dream Home

WITH US!

C A LL US TO DAY FO R AL L O F YO U R REAL ES T AT E NEED S .

678.576.1914 | Rhonda@RhondaShellRealEstate.com | RhondaShellRealEstate.com

Lifestyle Calendar

November NOVEMBER 3 PREVENT BLINDNESS GEORGIA INAUGURAL NIGHT FOR SIGHT GALA ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER Join Prevent Blindness Georgia at the inaugural Night for Sight Gala. A Night for Sight’s goal is to raise critical funds and awareness

for

preventing

sight-steal-

ing conditions and diseases in Georgia.

Guests will enjoy an evening of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, catered by Affairs to Remember, and live music entertainment from the Macular Degenerates.

Georgia.PreventBlindness.org

NOVEMBER 11 MILTON LITERARY FESTIVAL BEGINNING WITH VETERAN'S DAY BREAKFAST MILTON, GA The festival is growing in depth and breadth each year, with more people attending; our own Milton residents as well as others locally and beyond.

MiltonLiteraryFestival.weebly.com

40

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

Parting Thoughts

ARTICLE SYDNEY LINDSEY

HOME sweet here W

hen many think of home, they imag-

places has been one of the only consistent

ine a single city or dwelling. They

things. I moved to Chicago excited to explore

are instantly flooded with memories of riding

a novel, vibrant city, eager to absorb some

bikes down the same streets, growing up in

of its culture into my persona. This sense

the same house since birth, driving past the

of seeking new places also led me to move

same strip malls and parks. My definition of

to London during college. Now as an adult,

home is a bit more convoluted.

I find moving to new places a stimulating

Having grown up in three different houses

Sydney and Pogo

42

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com | November 2017

adventure and a rewarding challenge.

in two different states, I never really grew up

Now living in Atlanta, I look back on the

with the same neighbors or the same sur-

cities I’ve called home as the puzzle pieces

roundings. I remember envying my friends

of the wonderful life I’ve lived so far. Each city

who had the same house from birth to

built a part of my personality; each new city

high school graduation. I was jealous of the

uncovered a new aspect of myself. My parents

familiarity they had created and the bonds

did me the ultimate favor by raising my siblings

they had made. After living in two different

and me in different locales. They made us cit-

houses in the San Francisco Bay Area, then

izens not of one town, but rather, of the world.

moving to a new home in Columbus, Ohio,

Today, it is even more important to consider

all I ever craved during my childhood and

ourselves a part of our greater surroundings.

teenage years was some semblance of con-

I am so thankful that home, for me, isn’t

sistency. I wanted to know my neighbors on a

a single brick and mortar entity. Home is

deeper level than waving hello while driving

fog that rolls over the hills. It is the salty

by. I wanted to be the trusted neighborhood

sea air. It is watching deer dance in the

babysitter, not the unknown new girl.

first snowfall. It is being surrounded by

I really have no right to complain, as I am

skyscrapers that comfort like friendly giants.

incredibly fortunate to have been raised in

And most importantly, home for me is being

great homes in safe areas throughout my

surrounded by my family: the related and

childhood. Many are not as fortunate. But I

unrelated humans who give me love and

always remember wishing I lived somewhere

comfort, making home a state of mind and

for long enough that I was ingrained in the

heart, rather than another address.

area. It wasn’t until recently that I became

Sydney Lindsey is a second-year student

thankful that this was how I was raised. When

in the Copywriting program at The Creative

it came time for me to choose a college, I

Circus in Atlanta. Home for her now is an

didn’t fear moving somewhere completely

apartment on the north side of Atlanta, with her

new. In fact, I knew I wanted to explore a

adorable dachshund hound, Pogo, by her side.

new city. Throughout my life, moving to new

Big moments start with a little jewelry box. Explore the beautifully curated collection we’ve been working on all year long. Gifts of fine jewelry, easy to give and made to inspire the holiday’s biggest moments.

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