Alpharetta, GA December 2018

DECEMBER 2018

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

We believe!

OUR NICE LIST GIFT GUIDE

WINNING WINTER SKIN

HOLIDAYS WITH DIANE JOHNSON

YOUR MILTON AND ALPHARETTA LOCAL EXPERT

BONNIE HOWINGTON SMITH TOP PERFORMER c. 404.713.7713 | o. 770.442.7300 bonniesmith@atlantafinehomes.com bonniesmith.atlantafinehomes.com

As a resident of North Atlanta and a top performer at Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty, I have the innovation and local expertise to make your buying or selling process stress free! Allow me to share with you how my experience, paired with the global exposure and worldclass marketing only offered through the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand, can produce extraordinary results for you.

©MMXVIII Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.

Represented the buyer or seller on each photo featured.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2018 PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@lifestylepubs.com MANAGING EDITOR

Happy Holidays, One and All FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, MY CHILDREN WILL NOT ALL BE UNDER MY ROOF FOR THE HOLIDAY. They are 18, 21 and 26, all independent creative humans. I love being with them, not only because I am their mother, but also because they are interesting, engaging, political, funny and… good helpers in the kitchen.

I depend on them to keep me current with today’s music. I made a shared playlist on Spotify called, “Mom, listen to this.” Thanks to them, I have Lizzo, SZA, Leon Bridges and Dzihan & Kamien on my phone. (I’ll share a few finds with you, if you’re interested.

Go to: SeeSueGo LifestylePubs V1 on Spotify.)

Sue Collins | scollins@lifestylepubs.com MARKET AREA COORDINATOR

Darce Richardson | darce.richardson@lifestylepubs.com SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@lifestylepubs.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Jenny Kepano | jenny.kepano@lifestylepubs.com Grisel Shtaida | grisel.shtaida@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Kendra Gensemer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nicolette Martin, Erikka Searles Mitchell, Valerie Shepherd, Maria Smith, Carrie Whitney CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

I’m bracing myself for a holiday without all the chicks in my roost. I’ll invite an otherwise solo friend to the table, so there’s another voice in the conversation and not a sad empty chair in the room. I’ll send a card and loaf of pumpkin bread to my daughter’s boyfriend’s family so there’s a little piece of me there with her. I’ll try not to cry, or if I do, I’ll escape to Kroger to pick up just one more thing and let loose in the car.

I’m sure your holidays will be different this year. Whether it’s because the faces around your table have changed or because your life has changed. It’s inevitable. Let’s promise each other we will embrace the new and make the day meaningful for those around us.

Focusing on others always makes us feel better. Stronger. And, maybe you’ll discover someone new to do the dishes.

From everyone here at Lifestyle Publications, please accept our very best wishes for a warm, healthy and meaningful holiday season.

Enjoy this issue! xo Sue

Aubry Canales, Nicole Stephens

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin EDITORIAL Kate Baxendale AD MANAGER Chad Jensen AD COORDINATORS Cyndi Harrington | Alicia Huff | Jessica Soetaert LAYOUT DESIGNERS Cyndi King | Dana Rudolph | Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek | Adella Wrisinger FIELD SUPPORT Carli DiMarco | Victoria Perry PUBLISHER SUPPORT Melanie Carlisle ACCOUNTANT Austin Park APPLICATION ARCHITECT Michael O’Connell WEB DEVELOPERS Tejaswini Jagarlamudi | Harshith Potu

Sue G. Collins, Editor PHOTO - My Lifestyle Publications family, from left: Jenny Kepano, Karyn Slovin, Darce Richardson Jim "call me Santa" Newman, Grisel Shtaida, Rick Limpert and Sue Collins

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER elleB Gifts in downtown

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Alpharetta is ready for the holidays. They specialize in personalized gifts and locally-made products. Stop in and tell them you're a reader!

50 Canton St, Alpharetta. ElleBGifts.com

PHOTOGRAPHY AUBRY CANALES 4

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

Proverbs 3:5-6

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com

Alpharetta Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Alpharetta areas’ 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.

WHEN YOU PROVIDE OUTSTANDING CARE, IT REALLY ATTRACTS A CROWD.

Northside Hospital continues to attract more top doctors and advance our technology. And that makes all the difference for patients. We’re growing throughout Georgia and offering our high level of care to more people. When you take better care of your physicians and staff, they can take better care of patients.

northside.com

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2018

FEATURES 18 On the Nice List Here are the gifts to add to YOUR holiday wish list

26 Missing Out on the Merry?

Checking in when friends are blue during the holidays.

28 16

28 Bright and Merry Designer Diane Johnson’s holiday favorites.

18

26

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

16 DIY 22 Open House 26 Locals Only 28 Renovate & Refine 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Healthy Lifestyle

GOOD TIMES

elleB Hosts Friends and advertising partners gathered at elleB Gifts in Alpharetta, celebrating with food from Coalition and fabulous wine from Fermented. Lucky guests took home gifts from elleB, Grey Owl Mind Body, Mattress Bliss and Ritual the Salon. Alpharetta Lifestyle believes in the strength of networking and fellowship. Join us!Â

We Love Pit Bulls The community came together for a 1-mile walk and party to support Throw Away Dogs Project, retraining rescue dogs to be police dogs. A check for $2,000 was presented to help rescue pit bulls to be K9 officers, military soldiers and support dogs.

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Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

Experience Lake Living

COT TAG E ST Y LE HO ME S ON L A K E W I ND WA R D 17 15 SPINN AK ER DRIVE

6 43 0 SPI NNAK ER L AN E

Alpharetta L

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READERS’

SOUTHEAST REGION

CHOICE 2017

Celebrate the Season on Lake Windward 678 .576 .1914 | Rh on da@Rh on daSh ellRealEstate.com | Rh on daSh ellRealEstate.com

AROUND TOWN

HEALTHIER EATING NEARBY

three Fulton County Schools named National Blue

Vitality Bowls specializes in açaí bowls – a thick

Ribbon Schools for 2018. Lake Windward Elementary,

blend of the antioxidant-rich açaí berry, topped

Heards Ferry Elementary and Shakerag Elementary

with a variety of superfoods – and is now open in

were recognized in the “Exemplary High Performing”

Alpharetta. The new franchise location will be the

category, placing them among Georgia’s highest per-

first for Jeff and Paula Sauer, who are long-time area

forming schools as measured by state assessments

residents. “From the first bite I took from an açaí

or nationally normed tests. This is the first time in

bowl at Vitality Bowls, I knew it was the start of a

Fulton’s history that three schools have been named

new journey for me,” says Paula. “With two children

National Blue Ribbon schools at one time.

involved in sports and the arts, we lead a very busy lifestyle and often have to eat on the run. There just

MARIST OPEN HOUSE

are not enough healthy restaurants available in the

Marist School hosts its annual Open House for

area so we decided to open Vitality Bowls to bring

families with prospective students looking to enter

a nutritious option to Alpharetta.” Organic cold brew

grades 7 through 12. Attendees will have the oppor-

nitrogen-poured coffee and organic kombucha will

tunity to meet students, teachers, and coaches while

also be available on-tap. 364 Commerce St.

learning about Marist’s academic, spiritual, and extracurricular programs. The entire campus will be open for visitors to see classrooms, watch performances, tour athletic facilities, and talk to students to learn why they love coming to Marist School.

The event is Sunday, December 2, 1-4 p.m.

Principal Kevin Mullally will make a presentation in Centennial Center at 1 p.m. 3790 Ashford Dunwoody Road NE. Marist School is an independent, Roman Catholic, college-preparatory day school enrolling approximately 1,100 boys and girls in grades 7 through 12. It is owned and operated by the Society of Mary (more commonly known as the Marists), a religious congregation of priests and brothers founded in France in 1836.

NFCC HOLIDAY PROGRAM North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC) has helped struggling families with holiday assistance for more than 30 years. The Holiday Program helps local families in need receive warm coats, celebrate family traditions and enjoy a special holiday meal. From humble beginnings of just a few dozen families, the program now helps 1,200+ families and 2,700 children celebrate the holidays each year. This holiday assistance relieves the additional financial stress for local families living paycheck to paycheck. NFCCHelp.org/donate.

THREE SCHOOLS HONORED

10

GMC IS 30

Fulton County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeff

Gwinnett Medical Center’s (GMC) Glancy

Rose and Alpharetta Mayor Jim Gilvin joined for

Rehabilitation Center recently celebrated its 30

a special presentation and recognition of Lake

year anniversary of offering inpatient and out-

Windward Elementary School as a 2018 National Blue

patient therapy and transitional fitness to the

Ribbon School. Lake Windward Elementary is one of

CONTINUED >

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

Just Keep It We can help keep the old system running throughout the holidays and into 2019!

No one wants to put money into their air conditioner because summer is over.

Call for an honest diagnostic & opinion of your situation.

ALPHARETTA I MILTON I JOHNS CREEK (770) 765-0622 I LOCKMYAC.COM I MILTON-HVAC.COM

AROUND TOWN

(CON TI N U ED)

community. Glancy Rehabilitation was founded so

research. This year alone, Polo in the Pines raised

patients could receive care closer to home. As part

$345,000 for pediatric brain cancer research

of the anniversary celebration, leadership unveiled

through The Sharon McCollum Knight, Polo in the

the Hall of Resilience at Glancy Rehabilitation.

Pines Pediatric Cancer Research Fund at Children's

The Hall of Resilience is designed to encourage

Healthcare of Atlanta.

current patients and their families during their

Families and children need financial support

journey of healing. L to R: Patient Karen Stewart,

and help spreading awareness for pediatric brain

patient Bill Barry and Beverly Perala, wife of for-

cancer research. That’s why Summer Classics

mer patient Floyd Perala.

Home Atlanta is pleased to sponsor this valuable

SUMMER CLASSICS GIVES Summer Classics Home Atlanta, the manufacturer and retailer of Summer Classics luxury out-

organization to make a difference in the lives of these families.

STAY YOUTHFUL AT YOUTHTOPIA MED SPA

door furnishings and Gabby high style indoor fur-

Youthtopia Med Spa has moved to Downtown

niture, sponsored the two-day charity polo event,

Alpharetta on Canton Street! After 11 years on Old

Polo in the Pines, benefiting Children's Healthcare

Milton Pkwy the spa decided to move to the vibrant

of Atlanta, pediatric brain cancer research. The

downtown area. Learn more about all their services

event was held on October 13-14, and Summer

from Coolsculpting, Botox, PRP Facials and Laser

Classics Home donated more than $10,000 worth

Services. "We are uniquely dedicated to teaching

of the company’s outdoor furnishings to the polo

each person how to find their inner beauty and to

event offering attendees multiple spots to sit, relax

help it shine through. Youthtopia is made up of tal-

and enjoy a weekend of polo.

ented, professional people who care for your well

Polo in the Pines combines polo, dining and

being," says Owner Tracy Olson. "As a group, we

lots of fun for a generous cause: children’s cancer

want you to feel pampered and to know how very CONTINUED >

12

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

AROUND TOWN

(CON TI N UED)

special you are to us." 770.772.4806 50 Canton

St

#115,

Alpharetta.

YouthtopiaMedSpa.com

CRAFT BEER GALORE Max’s Bottle Shop offers customers a wide variety of beers from all over the world. With more than 1,000, different and unique beers to choose from, even the most avid craft beer lover will be surprised. Located in the heart of Johns Creek, they work hard to bring you an elevated selection of beer, and they work even

Classic Blinds & Shutters Center 488 N Main St Ste 109 Alpharetta, GA

Morning SunshineDesign

Afternoon Cool Down

harder to provide amazing customer service. Pay a visit meet the team.

Bring the beer lover in your life and come stock up your beer cooler for

M-F 10:00am - 5:00pm Sat 10:00am - 3:00pm Sun Closed

the holidays. 6395 McGinnis Ferry Rd #304, Johns Creek

770-924-0282 www.classicblindsandshutters.com

Morning Sunshine

Afternoon Cool Down PowerView™ Motorization

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

PowerView Motorization from Hunter Douglas is a remarkable system that moves your shades according to your schedule.* Just program your personalized settings with your smart phone or tablet. Plus, it now integrates even more seamlessly with other home automation systems for a truly connected home. To see PowerView in motion, contact us today. ®

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PowerView Motorization from Hunter Douglas is a remarkable system that moves Sat: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm your shades according to your schedule.* Just program your personalized settings Sun: Closed with your smart phone or tablet. Plus, it now integrates even more seamlessly with 770-924-0282 other home automation systems for a truly connected home. To see PowerView www.classicblindsandshutters.com in motion, contact us today. ®

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Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

sions

for

announcements

you’d

like to see included in our Around Town

*The PowerView App and additional equipment required for programmed operation. ©2018 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.9047636

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GIVE A GiftTHAT WILL KEEP ON Givin g

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON ALL YEAR LONG

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

Gift Cards Available FOR THE PERFECT GIFT OR STOCKING STUFFER:

Purchase any Gift Card for $500+ and receive a Complimentary Hydrafacial to Keep OR “Gift Away” (value $195) Purchase a Gift Card for a Hydrafacial or Intraceuticals Oxygen Facial & receive a 2nd at 50% off to Keep OR “Gift Away” Bring in this ad and save 20% on any skin care purchase * Valid thru December 21st

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

DIY ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

W I NTER’S R E VEL YOUR GUIDE TO A SIMPLE AND STYLIZED NEW YEAR’S SOIRÉE

FOLLOWING CLOSELY ON THE COATTAILS OF AUTUMNAL AND WINTER HOLIDAYS, THE NEW YEAR CAN OFTEN BE OVERLOOKED DUE TO AN UNDERSTANDABLE DESIRE TO TAKE A BREAK FROM THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF THE SEASON. But, a holiday that celebrates past memories and the opportunity for a fresh start shouldn’t lack any of the glitz of its celebratory predecessors. Round out the final days of the year reminiscing on or saying goodbye to the experiences of the previous 12 months with a simple end-of-theyear gathering that isn’t lacking any of the glamour.

1

TH E D R INK S

Champagne has long been a traditional drink to toast to the new year. Keep it simple but step up your game with your own DIY Champagne cocktail

2

THE D ECOR There’s no need to go out and buy a ton of additional decor when you just decked the halls (quite literally) with holiday ornamentation.

Make those decorations work as hard as you did by repurposing all the greenery, pine cones and wood place settings you just couldn’t say no to. Throw in some neutral napkins, some natural twine and some dried orange peels for a woodsy (and fragrant) twist.

bar. Consider stocking your bar full of custom Champagne or bubbly choices, festive mixers like cranberry juice or rosemary simple syrup and unique garnishes like fresh fruit and herbs or decorative ice cubes with edible flowers.

WHAT YOU NEED + Cheese board or serving plate + Assortment of cheeses

3

(We recommend Brie, Port Salut, Muenster, Camembert or Gruyere) PUTTING IT TOGETHER

THE SNACKS

Keep your guests happy with the perfect cheese plate.

Consider how many people you’ll be serving, whether you’ll be serving before or after dinner and what cheeses you’ll want to include. According to WineFolly.com, sparkling wines pair best with creamy, sticky cheeses due to the high acidity and carbonation.

16

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

Cheese is best served at room temperature, so be sure your cheese has time to rest prior to serving. Slice the cheeses and arrange artfully on your cheese board with labels for each.

Consider providing separate serving knives for each cheese to avoid any mixing of flavors.

Add any additional bites you’d like and enjoy!

Visit Us Online

Keep up with us online when you are on the go.

How Do Tax Law Changes

Affect Your Family In 2018?

Prudent tax planning with Davis & Langford professionals will take the tangle out of your tinsel and have you dashing through the snow, jingling all the way.

JohnsCreekCPA.com Past Issues

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SEAR CH FOR YO UR COM MUNITY MAGAZINE AT lifestylepubs.com/magazines CALL FOR A COMPLIMENTARY ANALYSIS

Th Dav e elves is & a Lang t a re f o rd jus t a a wa c a l l y.

December 2018 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

17

ON THE NICE LIST HERE ARE THE GIFTS TO ADD TO YOUR HOLIDAY WISH LIST ARTICLE MARIA SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

WHAT'S ON YOUR HOLIDAY LIST THIS YEAR? These are not the gifts you plan to give away, but rather the ones you actually want to receive! Tech gifts for the home? Luxury gifts to make you feel pampered? Delicious ones to fill your belly? Gifts to inspire creativity? We've got you covered!

We asked Janet Rodgers, president and CEO of the Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau, for what's on her holiday list. After 20 years working with the city of Alpharetta, she knows exactly where to go in town to get the very best gifts. Whether she is hanging out with her husband of 39 years, or her children and grandchild, Janet knows where to go and what to buy in our beautiful city. Check out what she has put on her own list this year.

18

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

1.

Kilwins opened recently in Alpharetta City Center and the 10lb chocolate bar is on many locals' holiday lists!

JANET RODGERS president and CEO of the Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau, offers her ideas for what should be on YOUR holiday list.

What’s on

Janet Rodgers’ List?

What's on Janet Rodgers' List?

1. Kilwins in Downtown Alpharetta's City Center is known for their homestyle fudge, chocolates, and various confections and ice cream, .But what's on Rodger's list? A 10 lb chocolate bar any chocoholic would approve.

CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

19

ON THE NICE LIST

(CON TI N U ED)

2. Rodgers' has her eye on some fantastic artwork from local artists at Sis + Moons in downtown Alpharetta. Julie Schieffelin is one of those artists whose popular florals and abstract pieces are for sale.

3. Everyone wants to relax right? How about a gift card to Woodhouse Day Spa located at Avalon for a day of pampering.

Woodhouse Day Spa offers massage, skin care, hand treatment, foot treatment and body treatment services.

2.

Artwork by Julie Schieffelin at Sis + Moon can inspire anyone.

3.

Pampering at the Woodhouse Day Spa is something that would make anyone's holiday quite merry.

5.

Everyone's toes could promote team spirit this holiday season.

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Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

4. elleB Gifts in Suwanee and Alpharetta offers fantastic personalized gifts anyone would love.

Internet dating?

...Still Single?

4. Let's get personal. Personalized gifts that is! elleB Gifts in downtown Alpharetta

offers

monogrammed

and personalized gifts, including scarves,

monogram

monogrammed

necklace,

stationery,

and

others. A personalized keepsake Christmas ornament is an ideal gift.

5. SEC Football is life here in the South, and Rodgers plans to support her team, even down to her toes.

Clotheshorse Men’s Apparel in

call today!

(404) 355-4646

Downtown Alpharetta is stocking up on these fun team socks. She is particularly looking for some Clemson

www.1on1matchmaking.com

socks. (Go Tigers!)

December 2018 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

21

OPEN HOUSE

COMING HOME: LIVING DOWNTOWN ALPHARETTA ALPHARETTA’S WALKABLE, BIKEABLE DISTRICT GOES FROM SUBURB TO DESTINATION ARTICLE CARRIE WHITNEY

ALPHARETTA MIGHT BE KNOWN AS THE TECHNOLOGY CITY OF THE SOUTH, BUT WHEN MARY ANN SLAVIK MOVED

FROM

A

SUBDIVISION

TO

DOWNTOWN

ALPHARETTA, SHE HAD MORE PERSONAL CONNECTIONS IN MIND. A 30-year resident of the city, Slavik understood the vision of what was to come in the downtown area and wanted to be a part of it.

“When I saw the plans for Teasley Place, I knew immediately that this was what I had been waiting for,” she says. “I was literally the first to commit to buying here and then two years later, the first to move in. It is a grand space and beautiful living right in the heart of what has become a vibrant and thriving downtown.” Mary Ann worked with Rhonda Shell Real Estate to find the right home. "Rhonda helped me discover that while downsizing may mean the loss of some square footage, it does not make your home any less of a place to live a wonderful life." Mary Ann says she has grown deep roots here and values that sense of belonging. "I came here when I was 28, had three children and raised them here. When my children were growing up, I delivered Meals on Wheels to many of the older folks in downtown Alpharetta, some of whom lived on the very site that my new home at Teasley Place has been built upon. I consider this hallowed ground."

22

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

Mary Beth Cornelius and Mary Ann Slavik

Centered around Alpharetta’s new City Hall, the historic downtown area has experienced significant modern-style growth in recent years, attracting visitors and resi-

GALA PROM BRIDAL PAGEANT COUTURE EVENING WEAR MOTHER OF BRIDE

dents like Slavik to its plethora of shopping, dining and cultural experiences. With new residential development, as well as a variety of live-work-play real estate options, downtown Alpharetta offers a walkable lifestyle that also includes parks, green spaces and trail connections.

Take Alpharetta City Center, for example.

In partnership with the City of Alpharetta, Morris & Fellows started construction in 2017 on more than 100,000 square feet of restaurants, offices and retail spaces, most of which are now open. This mixed-use development includes apartments and single-family homes too, with the goal of serving as the heart of Alpharetta.

“We have expanded Alpharetta’s downtown historic district by six city blocks, adding historically styled buildings and classic park spaces within a traditional street grid,” says Cheri Morris, president of Morris & Fellows. “The result is a walkable destination that serves as the crossroads of downtown and the nexus of the Alpha Loop.”

A multi-use trail system spearheaded by the City of Alpharetta, the Alpha Loop aims to connect residential areas and business districts

to

entertainment,

BERTA MUSE BY BERTA ZUHAIR MURAD MARCHESA WALID SHEHAB SAIID KOBEISY NETTA BENSHABU

recreational

experiences and green spaces. Currently, a path linking downtown Alpharetta to Avalon, called the Thompson Street leg, is nearly complete. Additional phases of the trail are under design or in the conceptual planning stages, while the long-term goal is to provide more connections to the east side of Georgia 400 and create links between downtown, Avalon, North Point and the Big Creek Greenway.

In the meantime, downtown residents are already able to walk and bike to a diverse mix of restaurants, boutiques, the Saturday Farmers Market, an art center in the renovated library and a full calendar of special seasonal events like concerts, festivals and Food Truck Alley.

CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

23

OPEN HOUSE

(CON TI N U ED)

Avalon resident and artist Mary Beth Cornelius explains that she enjoys walking throughout downtown Alpharetta and visiting with shopkeepers and proprietors who serve as excellent ambassadors. The area has only become more vibrant with a mixture of people of all age ranges, she says.

"I give great credit to former Mayor David Belle Isle and the City Council who went to such great efforts to ensure that this does not become a cookie cutter shopping mall. The fact that large chain franchises are prohibited in City Center will allow it to remain unique and authentic."

The growth in entertainment offerings and infrastructure has worked in tandem with the increase in high-end residential options that have proponents like Cornelius and Slavik giving up their large houses. And, with the help of Rhonda Shell Real Estate, they were able to find their forever homes.

WHAT TO DO IN DOWNTOWN ALPHARETTA THIS MONTH + Light The Night, Dec. 1, Milton Avenue and Main Street + Magical Winter Village, Dec. 8, Village Green on Main Street DINE OUT: + Chiringa + Citizen Soul + Coalition Food and Beverage + Jinya Ramen Bar + Kilwins + Lapeer + Maple Street Biscuit Company + Never Enough Thyme + Restaurant Holmes + SHADE Street Food + Bar

SHOP: + Ave Maria Gifts & Books + b.spectacled + Belso Home Studio + Comeback Vinyl + elleB Gifts + Hemline Alpharetta + Korner Soak + La Bella Maison + Othels ArtThe Pink Valise Boutique + Vino 100 / Tinder Box FIND YOUR DOWNTOWN HOME: RhondaShellRealEstate.com

24

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

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.

LOCALS ONLY

mis sing

out

on

THE MERRY? CHECKING IN WHEN FRIENDS ARE BLUE DURING THE HOLIDAYS ARTICLE DR. ANGELO SAMBUNARIS

THE HOLIDAYS ARE A TIME OF MERRIMENT, CHEER, FUN

better. They start with Thanksgiving family meals and when that fails

WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS, GIVING AND RECEIVING GIFTS

to cheer them up, they hope for Christmas with the gift giving and

AND OF COURSE PLENTY OF GOOD FOOD. At least for some.

receiving. When that too fails to help, they set their sights on New

As a society, we look forward to the end of year holidays each year. But not everyone has that same level of interest in, or anticipation

Year’s. Alas, in January, they decide to work on a New Year’s resolution to never have a holiday season like that anymore.

for, the holidays or festive social gatherings. For various reasons, some

This is more than just being in temporary funk. What many call the

feel that the season is more an annoyance, that the neighborhood party

“holiday blues” is also an ongoing feeling of hope that the next event

is for everyone else but not for them. Many believe they are not deserv-

will deliver a change in mood and outlook.

ing of gifts or well wishes or even the joy that the season brings.

For these individuals, this is just their baseline mood for all holidays. Others may notice that they are not excited for the holidays and realize it is different from years past. Although the change is apparent to them, they steadfastly keep up their normal holiday activities and traditions, hoping that the exercise will make things 26

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

HOPE IS NOT AN OPTION. Inaction will not produce a different result at the next holiday.

HOPE IS NOT AN ANSWER. Do you/they know the root cause of these feelings and symptoms?

HOPE IS NOT A TREATMENT. Medical disorders require medical evaluation and treatment.

Not sure how to broach the subject? Start with these questions: 1. Are you more withdrawn from friends, family, and coworkers this holiday season?

Does the thought of going to the company party make you anxious or exhausted?

2. Are you more annoyed, irritable, or agitated around holiday shoppers, traffic, mall parking lots, etc. this past month?

3. Are you avoiding shopping or are you less interested in the holidays spirit of giving and receiving? Do you feel like you are just going through the motions of it all?

4. Did that Thanksgiving meal seem to just drag on? Did even your favorite comfort food fail to give you the same feelings as in years past?

5. Are you hoping that Christmas might cheer you up (because you do not know why you feel this way)?

If the answer is YES to three or more of these questions, it’s probably time to consult a physician to see if a medical condition is affecting the brain’s ability to experience the joy of the holidays. Brain health and wellness really is the gift that keeps on giving all year long!

Dr. Angelo Sambunaris has been a leader in the field of clinical research for over two decades and currently serves as Founder, CEO and Medical Director of the Institute for Advanced Medical Research.

IAMResearch.org 770.817.9200 5755 North Point Parkway, Ste. 256, Alpharetta December 2018 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

27

ARTICLE VALERIE SHEPHERD | PHOTOGRAPHY NICOLE STEPHENS

BRIGHT AND MERRY

RENOVATE & REFINE

28

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

DIANE JOHNSON FROM DIANE JOHNSON INTERIORS SHARES HER EYE FOR DESIGN AND HOLIDAY INSPIRATION.

Che ck off EVE RYO NE on your list!

TAKE ONE LOOK IN DIANE JOHNSON INTERIORS' JOHNS CREEK STORE, AND IT'S AS IF EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOUR CREATIVE DREAMS HAS MAGICALLY SWIRLED

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INTO REALITY. The holiday magic... the intricate hues... the way Diane Johnson herself has curated some of the most beautiful gifts and items that would help any home or hostess shine... It's almost like the elves themselves visit at night to help create the

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holiday perfection that draws many devoted fans to catch a glimpse of Johnson's keen eye for what most anyone would want. idays. Though she professes, "I'm quite ordinary and

ellebgifts.com

boring, and do the same thing most every year by going

Teasley Place

Shoppes at Windermere

50 Canton Street Alpharetta 470.361.2040

3130 Mathis Airport Parkway #304 | Suwanee 770.889.9992

It's easy to see that Johnson herself loves the hol-

home to visit family in North Carolina for a few days, then heading back late Christmas Day to be ready for the crowds shopping at the store the day after Christmas."

CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

29

RENOVATE & REFINE

(CON TI N U ED)

And although she may claim her holiday tradition is "ordinary," she's clearly saving the extraordinary for the store and her clients.

Always ahead of the trends, Johnson says this year brought holiday shoppers much earlier than usual. "Either people were very excited this year, or they were just afraid of something selling out," she chuckles. "This year's on-trend design is a more neutral palette and less pattern, so those items are very popular this season."

With so many items in the store, it would be impossible for Johnson to pick a favorite.

However, she clearly has a soft spot for the unique traditions her clients create around the pieces they find at Diane Johnson Interiors.

"We have small decorative boxes that look like presents and I just love what people say they use them for, especially at the dinner table.

Some people use them as name place holders, some people put small gifts for each guest in them, and some even share their holiday wish for the year on a piece of paper Wrigley, named after Chicago's Wrigley Field belongs to one of Diane's clients and dear friends, Sallie Duncan.

tucked away until the next year."

Although Diane Johnson's own personal holiday may be short and sweet, she certainly celebrates all throughout the holiday season in her store. Whether you are looking for the perfect gift, one-of-a-kind interior decorating items, or the most beautiful holiday pieces to help you celebrate with your loved ones, Diane Johnson Interiors is definitely ready to add a little sparkle and shine not only to your holiday season, but throughout the new year.

9925 Haynes Bridge Road, Ste 720.

DianeJohnsonInteriors.com

30

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

THROUGH DEC

are invited to Avalon’s Courtyard

SANTA AT AVALON

as well as refreshments, music, and

CAFFEINE AND CHROME

entertainment for all ages.

1870 McFarland Pkwy Suite 300

Avalon

(located in Boulevard East) for a traditional Menorah lighting ceremony

Hang out with Gateway Classic Cars

Visit jolly Old Saint Nick in his cozy North Pole-inspired cottage and make sure you’re on the nice list. Santa will be at Avalon throughout the season

29

2

on the last Saturday of every month for Cars & Coffee. Enjoy delicious donuts, coffee, and the newest

spreading holiday magic and taking

SANTA BRUNCH

photos with families to cherish for a

Milton's Cuisine & Cocktails

friendly. All makes and models are

lifetime. Both reservation and walk-up

Kick off the holidays right with this

welcome to cruise in and all invited

appointments will be available. 10 a.m.

cozy family brunch at Milton's. Visit

to join the fun.

- 8 p.m. Santa’s House on Palmer Plaza

with Santa before, during or after for

1

LIGHTING OF THE TREE Downtown Alpharetta

All the magic of the holidays glistens

that all-important holiday portrait.

December 2 and 9, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Reservations 770.817.0161

4

arrivals. No admission fee and kid

JAN 10 PROGRESSIVE INSURANCE ATLANTA BOAT SHOW

285 Andrew Young International Blvd.

The 2019 Progressive® Insurance

at the annual lighting of the 45’ live

GROUP RUNS

spruce tree with 10,000 white lights!

42 Milton Ave

2019, bringing more than 700 boats

Plus LIVE broadcast of the SEC

Get out of your running rut and join the

and more for the biggest and best

Championship Game, roast marsh-

OTP Runs Alpharetta every Tuesday

in boating. WHEN: Jan. 10-13, 2019

mallows around a warm fire.

Night. Hosted by OTP Sports

WHERE: Georgia World Congress

Atlanta Boat Show returns Jan. 10-13,

Center, Hall A 285 Andrew Young

1

11

BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER

FOR WOMEN

ACT1 Theater, 180 Academy St

Roam Innovative

In this hilarious Christmas classic, a

Workplace: Alpharetta

couple struggling to put on a church

W.O.E. Women Only Entrepreneurs is

Christmas pageant is faced with

galvanizing unstoppable women by

casting the Herdman kids–probably

bringing a fresh and authentic vibe

the most inventively awful kids in his-

to a growing community of female

tory. You won’t believe the mayhem

founders who are not afraid to shine a

– and the fun – when the Herdmans

light on the inner work it takes to cre-

collide with the Christmas story

ate outward success. WOEAtl.com

International Blvd. TICKETS: Ages 13 and up: $15 at box office; Youth 12 & under: FREE (with a paid adult)

head on! Dec 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16 AwesomeAlpharetta.com

2

VENGEANCE RACING TOYS 4 TOTS CRUISE-IN

We are always accepting sub-

Miller's Ale House

missions for events you'd like to

2200 Avalon Blvd

All makes and models of cars are

see included in our Calendar sec-

Join us and Chabad of North

welcome for the free casual cruise-in

tion. Submissions are accepted

Fulton for a Chanukah celebra-

from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Bring a toy, check

via

tion this holiday season! Guests

out the cool cars. Free.

AlpharettaLifestylePubs.com.

MENORAH LIGHTING

32

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Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

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December 2018 | Alpharetta Lifestyle

33

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Hello Winter!

ARTICLE SUE G. COLLINS

WITH TEMPERATURES DIPPING TO 35 THIS MONTH AND

1) Dermaplane smooths and exfoliates the surface of the

HOVERING AROUND 55, YOUR SKIN WILL BE BATTLING

skin by removing dead epidermal skin cells and unwanted

THE BRACING WEATHER AND THE SUN’S DAMAGING

peach fuzz with a special razor. This is a treat, as there is no

RAYS. Winter is the perfect season to ramp up your moisturiz-

downtime and no discomfort. It’s a smooth glow.

ing and take the time to repair and rejuvenate your skin.

2) For my 50-something, sun-kissed face, we skipped to a

Depending on your age, the amount of sun damage sus-

more aggressive PCA exfoliating peel. Jill added a “booster,”

tained over the years and genetics (and your budget!), you

which accelerated the exfoliating properties. My peel was a

can consider different levels of restoration from a med spa. We

medium power peel and took a half hour. I had light peeling on

asked Jill Garver, spa director at The Graivier Center, what the

days 5 through 13, with glowing results.

non-surgical options are for our faces. And, since this is the

Even more effective is an IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) photofa-

season of giving, may I suggest you profess a little self love and

cial. “This is a go-to for pigment repair and age spots,” says Jill.

book an appointment with one of Jill’s aestheticians to find out

Vivace is the newest generation of radio frequency micro-nee-

your formula for fabulous.

“We take into consideration not only each patient’s needs, but also their budget,” says Jill, Master Licensed Medical

dling and is minimally invasive, stimulating the natural production of collagen, effective in alleviating facial wrinkles, fine lines, while tightening and toning the face and neck.

Aesthetician and Laser Specialist. “Then, after a treatment, we look at our various lines of products and balance the budget where it’s needed most - whether that’s a moistur-

TheGraivierCenter.com

izer, cleanser or something like vitamin C.”

3333 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 260

There’s a range of treatments to consider for winter skin, says Jill.

34

Alpharetta Lifestyle | December 2018

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