BuckHaven, GA May 2024

When you’re TIMELESS you’re always IN FASHION.

Hello friends,

A few years before my mom passed, she presented me with two boxes of letters that I had written to her over the years. The first in the collection was postmarked Marblehead, Mass. I was working for a PR firm and was dating the guy who would be my husband a year later.

She had carefully placed the letters in chronological order and the last one was a postcard from Rome, our first trip as a couple, without the kids. My notes described dinner parties in our tiny apartment, birthday parties in English pubs, a chicken pox outbreak in Hong Kong and bumps along the road of a young marriage.

I wrote about curtain fabric, job interviews and dreams. I inquired about her health, travels and family matters.

At the end of each letter, I’d make a note of the next time we would be together. I’d count the days. I would sign off with hugs, kisses and lots of love.

On Mother’s Day, I’ll be with my daughter Molly in New York.

I am sure we will have a fabulous visit. There will be a lot to write home about.

Happy Mother’s Day, mamas. And, enjoy this issue full of stories about very special women.

All my best,

SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @BUCKHAVENCITYLIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Stacy Conde

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Lora Sommers

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Megan Chang, Aleks Kapett, Firelite Studios, Jolie Loren

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

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

city scene

WHERE

NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

2: Cinda and Mark Salazar of Archadeck Alpharetta enjoy the GOCA Gala at Georgia Aquarium. 3: Cinda Salazar, Suri Saligan, Michele Piepioli and Karyn Slovin 4: Jessica Medina, Suri Saligan, Karyn Slovin and Andy Linkon enjoying the GOCA Gala.

JOLIE LOREN

JOLIE LOREN

9: Grooving at GOCA gala. 10: Nicole Keppel of Southern Living Plant Collection at a garden road show in Buckhead.

A ROUNDUP

Fox Gives

MANISH

Building upon a rich history of cultural engagement spanning nearly a century, the Fox Theatre proudly introduces its expanded community partnerships program, Fox Gives. As the philanthropic arm dedicated to strengthening communities through theatre, the program furthers the iconic institution’s preservation efforts. By more than doubling its financial investment, Fox Gives aims to restore historic theatres and offer new vocational opportunities for young individuals passionate about the arts. FoxTheatre.org

Photography by Jack Parada

Teen Leadership Program

Pebble Tossers, a renowned youth development nonprofit dedicated to fostering a culture of volunteerism and leadership among young people, is proud to announce registration is now open for its highly anticipated Teen Leadership Program (TLP). Designed to equip teens with essential life skills and leadership qualities, the Teen Leadership Program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering personal and practical skills including self-awareness, self-management, growth mindset, social awareness, healthy relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. PebbleTossers.org

Stellar Bodies Expands

Amy Selig expanded Stellar Bodies into a 5,000 square-foot flagship in Buckhead. Since opening the first megaformer studio here, Selig has steadily built a community bound by resilience, hard work and mutual support. The flagship offers a full body, low impact, high-intensity workout with 22 Xformers, a personal training room and retail offering. StellarBodiesATL.com

Scan to read more

KATHERINE WOLF

Mend Coffee and Goods co-founder

Pouring Love

Mend Coffee and Goods

ARTICLE BY BUCKHAVEN CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF

Hope Heals, an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization focused on accessibility awareness, just opened Mend Coffee and Goods, a coffee shop, retail concept and community hub that will offer dignifying employment to adults of all abilities. The beautiful accessibility-first spaces are thoughtfully appointed so that employees and customers of all abilities can gather, work, and celebrate with ease.

After a devastating stroke nearly took the life of Mend Coffee and Goods co-founder Katherine Wolf 15 years ago, she and her husband Jay have experienced the innumerable ways that the world is not made for people with disabilities. People with disabilities constitute the largest minority group in the United States. One in seven people worldwide experience disabilities. Despite this, accessibility is largely an afterthought in public spaces. That’s why Katherine and Jay decided to create a space that is designed with the disabilities community at the heart of it all.

Mend hand picks partner vendors who share their company values and reflect those in fair labor practices, ethical wages and/or represent marginalized communities to create a curated collection of mission-driven keepsakes.

This is a space where everyone has a seat at the table because the Wolfs believe that true hospitality is accessibility. Having a place to belong heals us where we need it most.

MendCoffee.org

3655 Roswell Road NE

Savvy Hospitality

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEKS KAPETT | FIRELITE STUDIOS

“Micaela uses her genuine desire to make each client feel special by providing first-class service and attention to their specific needs.

Micaela Binion is a marketing and brand strategist professional, number one salesperson for Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead and licensed real estate broker.

At Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead, she works with discerning clients and enjoys curating memorable deliveries to homes or in-store experiences. “My most memorable delivery was to the Harvey family. One of my favorite customers, Marjorie Harvey trusts me for one-of-a-kind deliveries which have included police escorts Baccarat glasses, Dome crystal and Jo Malone,” says Micaela.

“The most memorable delivery in store was for Floyd Mayweather. I was able to deliver a top tier experience, that spoke volumes to how he cares for his staff and his friends. With an eagle eye precision, my goal is to capture and authentically create a truly unique experience.”

Micaela Binion

Micaela's favorite vehicle for Spring 2024 is the Mercedes Benz SL. Spring is the time for new beginnings. The SL provides versatility as well as a superior performance engine. She says, I’m a California girl and I love to have the top down. But my true love is the EQS 580; it’s a sleek electric vehicle that gets me wherever I need to go.”

Mercedes of Buckhead general manager, Jason Reeves admires Micaela’s ability to really tune into what clients need. “Micaela uses her genuine desire to make each client feel special by providing first-class service and attention to their specific needs.”

Micaela believes in turning to product knowledge, service and hospitality for a successful sales experience. “I believe in unreasonable hospitality.”

Outside her career, Micaela supports Meals on Wheels, The Children’s Museum and The Nsoro Foundation, which helps youth aging out of foster care earn postsecondary education.

“I truly love people. A great part of my success is operating in love. I am a member of Change Church. My Pastor Dharius Daniels is a brilliant teacher and Shameka Daniels has a beautiful ministry focused on women. Above all, I have two sons who I adore,” says Micaela.

She and her family enjoy professional tennis and Formula One Racing.  Find Micaela at Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead.

2799 Piedmont Rd NE

MercedesOfBuckhead.com

A lesson IN PERSEVERANCE

Brookhaven author Audrey Galex has recently released her first children’s book, Turtle Rocks, an inspiring, whimsically illustrated book with a timeless message about the power of teamwork and friendship, perseverance and resilience.

Illustrated by Colleen Finn,  Turtle Rocks  is an enduring story that children of all ages will enjoy.

Audrey explains where she likes to go for inspiration, “When, like me, you live ‘on the edge’ of Brookhaven, you can’t help but spend most of your time in Brookhaven. Whether it’s taking our grand dogs to the dog park, walking the Peachtree Creek Greenway, shopping weekly at Costco, savoring a delicious meal at EATaliano, or grabbing MARTA into Atlanta, Brookhaven is our go-to place. Walking the perimeter of the dog park has been an inspiring place for conversation and self-reflection. Watching the dogs lope across the open field and splash in the creek reminds me to enjoy every moment, even life’s simplest pleasures.”

AUDREY GALEX:

Audrey Galex is a dynamic storyteller, journalist, and community advocate dedicated to amplifying voices, fostering connections, and inspiring positive change. Born and raised in Rock Island, Illinois, Audrey's passion for storytelling blossomed along the banks of the Mississippi River. She believes in the power of stories to open hearts and minds, fostering understanding and empathy in an ever-changing world.

Audrey Galex, author

ARTICLE BY LORA SOMMERS

Meet Brookhaven author

Audrey Galex

Colleen Finn, illustrator

CHEERS TO MOM

Cara McInerney lives for spring cocktails. The long, pretty days call for all-day sippers, light flavors, and plenty of fresh herbs. She gets excited for peach season, and will be bringing back one of her favorite cocktails from the Brassica vault, the City in the Forest - a high ball with Toki whiskey, soda, and a house peach shrub.

Nestled inside the Waldorf Astoria in Buckhead, the Brassica team leans on the brand’s prestige and storied locations around the world. “We offer our signature elegance and refinement at Brassica, told through the care of serious passion

for Southern hospitality,” says Cara. “Our team is creative and loves to thoughtfully curate every individual dining experience, and our intimate atmosphere provides an exclusive environment for guests to unwind.”

The menu pays respect to the ethos and approach of French cuisine and recipes, but told through a Southern lens with regional ingredients. What mother wouldn’t love brunch at Brassica?

BrassicaAtlanta.com

North Georgia Real Estate Team

539 Deer Crest Road | Blue Ridge

3 Bedroom | 3 Bathroom | 1 Half Bathroom Offered at $1,560,000

Nestled in mountain beauty, this 3-bed, 3.5-bath lodge by Tommy Wosyluk offers rustic luxury living. On 1.3 acres, it blends modern amenities with nature. Inside, enjoy a cozy open-concept design connecting kitchen, living, and dining areas. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate stunning views. Outside, a vast patio invites entertaining and relaxation, offering front-row seats to nature’s wonders day and night.

Whether you’re savoring your morning coffee as the sun rises over the mountains or stargazing on a clear night, this patio provides a front-row seat to nature’s wonders.

THE LADIES OF BENTLEY

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOLIE LOREN

WHO ARE THE BENTLEY GIRLS OF ATLANTA?

“We are THE group of Atlanta women who GET IT DONE! We are connected, powerful and know what we like. Our love for our Bentleys binds us!”

Their Instagram page says it all. There are photos of beautiful women and stunning new Bentleys and welcoming words from the successful and independent women who own these epic vehicles.

This group of dynamic women meets a few times a year and recently gathered at Bentley Atlanta to welcome spring and share their stories with City Lifestyle. Our talented photographer Jolie Loren was able to capture the spirit in each of these powerful women and we’re thrilled to introduce you to a few of them in this issue, our annual tribute to women. They each cherish their Bentley for different reasons and have something else in common. They all make philanthropy a priority, giving back to causes near and dear to their hearts.

Standing from left are Felicia Elibert, Riley Sager, Blessin Thompson, Mae Whiteside, Stacy Sager, Gail Lewis. Seated from left are Chlon Rogers, Donna Johnson, Freya Gray, Charlene Carter, Angela Lindsay, Paityn McKinley, Shaunell Kennard, Creighton Hoffman.

CHARLENE “CHARLEY” CARTER  is a corporate partner and chief development officer. She drives a GTC 2015 in Sandy White. She says, “I love the overall craftsmanship of my Bentley, my favorite being the interior stitching. It’s so very classic.” She supports Make a Miracle Foundation, providing scholarships to break the cycle of poverty in Peru and Colombia and empowering young people with educational opportunities that will help create a brighter future for them and their communities.

DR. FREYA COOPER GRAY is an (early) retired general dentist, who enjoys being a stay-at-home wife and mother. She owns a 2017 Continental GT V8 S in Glacier White. “I love that my Bentley is a ‘performance’ luxury vehicle that handles the road with precision, power and elegance. It is a timeless, classic, and superlative sports car.” She supports Heart for Africa, Heifer International, and NAACP nonprofit organizations.

CHLON HENRY drives a Bentley Bentayga. She is an author and music executive. “I love Bentley not merely for its luxury automobiles, but for the immersive experience it offers. From its exceptional staff to its profound appreciation for its clients, Bentley grants exclusive access to a community of kindred spirits.”

Chlon supports the Trust in Giving Foundation, with a mission to create lasting solutions to problems faced by today’s youth, seniors and families through giving; and Tough Energy, promoting the awareness of aortic aneurysms, overall heart health, wellness and fitness.

CREIGHTON HOFFMAN is the newest member of the Bentley Girls of Atlanta, driving a white 2024 Bentley Continental GT. “I love the acceleration when your foot hits the gas. The car is heavy, but she’s fast and agile. I love everything about her!” She is chief financial officer of Hoffman Financial Group and supports Refuge Widowers, giving widowers encouragement and a community of men who get it and will walk with them on their journey.

SHAUNELL R KENNARD owns a white Bentley Bentayga. “Driving my Bentley truck is not just a journey, it’s a statement of luxury and style. With its powerful performance and exquisite design, every ride is an experience of sophistication and elegance. I’m proud to own a Bentley truck that reflects my unique taste and appreciation for the finer things in life.” She is opening an esthetics school this month, is a Licensed General Contractor and builds new construction residential and commercial properties.

Her favorite nonprofit is It’s Ok To Not Be Ok, committed to helping people who are experiencing issues with their mental health or struggling with addiction.

SHAMEKA LANDERS drives a Bentley Bentayga and owns Landers Accounting and Tax Service. She is a Master Certified Life Coach and renovates and flips houses. “I love my Bentley because it is stylish, luxurious and the ride is very smooth.” She supports The Pink Fund, the Ronald McDonald  House Charities, and a small local foundation called Team-Preneur, which is an all girls nonprofit that teaches entrepreneur and leadership skills to young ladies.

GAIL WELLS LEWIS drives a 2022 White Flying Spur Hybrid. She finds it quiet, yet powerful. She is a former Atlanta Police Officer and supports her church’s outreach ministry, the Atlanta Food Bank, and Spelman College.

ANGELA LINDSAY affectionally named her 2022 black Bentley Continental GT, “Black Beauty.” “I love the beauty and elegance of the car and the feeling of prestige when driving it.” A recently retired corporate insurance executive, she supports St. James Alpharetta, Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta and Summit Counseling.

STACY SAGER’S journey with Bentley has many layers. She and her late husband Craig founded Sager Strong Foundation, partnering with Bentley to create a bespoke tribute to the late Hall of Fame Sportscaster Craig Sager’s passion and vitality. The 2022 Continental GT Speed Convertible is a one-of-a-kind custom design, autographed by over 90 athletes, touring in the hope that, one day, leukemia patients and their families will never have to go through the battle they have endured.

MAE WHITESIDE WILLIAMS is an entrepreneur and CEO leading a family owned and operated civil engineering firm, CKL Engineers, LLC. On driving her Bentley, she says, “I feel free! It makes me feel powerful, successful in my own right and beautiful. It represents the best, and I am the best. I deserve it.” She supports Lambda Sigma Sigma Lupus Sorority, Inc. a support system for women with this disease.

Gentle Excellence

The reviews are in.

Clients of Alchemy Aesthetics consistently leave glowing remarks about Dr. David Brothers and his team of aestheticians and staff of professionals.

Alchemy Aesthetics is the medical spa at the Plastic Surgery Centre of Atlanta, with its own dedicated space for a complete suite of Atlanta’s top med spa treatments.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David B. Brothers specializes in plastic surgery for the face, breasts, and body as well as medical spa treatments for men and women in our community.

The menu at Alchemy for fillers and injectables includes the most proven solutions including Botox, Kybella, and Sculptra. Skincare treatments like chemical peels, microneedling and facials are gentle but

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEKS KAPETT | FIRELITE STUDIOS

effective, with skin tightening treatments that can help address a number of skin flaws, including cellulite, wrinkles, stretch marks, and more.

Laser treatments for pigmentation and melanoma, acne and spider veins are performed in-office. Also, Latisse is the first and only prescription treatment approved by the FDA to increase the length and quality of eyelashes. Alchemy will advise on these treatments and follow up with each client to ensure success.

At a medical spa, treatments are available that offer real results that patients want without the need for surgery. Whether you’re looking to reduce the effects of aging, acne scarring, or even remove tattoos, there’s a medical spa treatment at Alchemy that can produce the results you want. PSCAtlanta.com | 5667 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd #285, Atlanta

Forough's Friends

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CHANG

Le Bon Nosh at the Farmers Market

Forough Vakili is friends with the herd sires and senior does who are behind the beautiful cheeses she serves at Le Bon Nosh in Buckhead. The herd of Saanen dairy goats live at Decimal Place Farm in Conley, Georgia where Mary Rigdon and her team create creamy chèvre and perfect feta for discerning chefs like Forough.  She has carefully forged relationships with farmers like Mary who value diligence and the power of simple ingredients.

Nearly every Saturday morning, Forough heads to the Freedom Farmers Market and carefully packs her vintage Porsche with local produce for the coming week. She has standing orders with Woodland Gardens, Hickory Hill, Diamond Hill and, of course, Decimal Place. She schedules another delivery on Wednesdays so the freshest ingredients stock her kitchen.

“We believe in the power of good food and eating well. Our mission is to nourish both bodies and minds with quality, locally sourced food and authentic experiences,” says Forough. “We’re passionate about cultivating a socially minded community that’s committed to accessibility, sustainability and food security.”

This integrity shines through each breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner dish at Le Bon Nosh.

“We believe in the power of good food and eating well. Our mission is to nourish both bodies and minds with quality, locally sourced food and authentic experiences,” says Forough. “We’re passionate about cultivating a socially minded community that’s committed to accessibility, sustainability and food security.”

Continuing to spread this love for the local land, Le Bon Nosh offers a produce bag subscription with their partner, Hickory Hill Farm, an 8-acre generational family farm. The land has been in Susan Shaw’s family since 1780 and now her daughter, Jennifer, is the sixth generation to farm the land. Each bag will include eight locally grown, organic fruits and veggies and will be delivered in a Le Bon Nosh jute and cotton tote, plus Chef Forough’s weekly recipes, inspired by the bag’s ingredients.

LeBonNosh.com

65 Irby Avenue NW, Suite 103, Atlanta

“We believe in the power of good food and eating well.”

C STOM ITC E T ROOM

C I ETS D S STEMS

CUSTOM KITCHEN & BATHROOM CABINETS , AND CLOSETS SYSTEMS

E ur o p ean S ty le Cabine t | S a e r S ty le Cabine t C ust om Clo s e ts | ru e s e t C i e ts | i t ie s M u d Room s | Floa t ing Shel v e s | B ut che r Block s ts Sha ts T In Cabine ani s in loc

HAIR REPLACEMENT

“I couldn’t have been happier with my decision to give Absolute Image Consulting a try, it has been by far my favorite place I’ve had over all my years. I find their hair systems to be top notch, the most up to date on the market, as are all the hair products that they offer. I can’t say enough good things about the company and staff.” - Client Testimonial

“My experience at Absolute Image completely changed my life. After suffering from hair loss since college, I’d also lost most of my self esteem and confidence along the way. The quality is truly astounding. They gave me my life back. They have me myself back. My only regret is not choosing this sooner and saving myself all those rough mornings in the mirror. If you’re considering hair replacement - do it.” - Client Testimonial

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 7TH

To Kill a Mockingbird

The Fox Theatre | 7:30 PM

All rise for Academy Award® winner Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterwork: The New York Times Critic’s Pick To Kill a Mockingbird. Rolling Stone gives it 5 stars, calling it “an emotionally shattering landmark production of an American classic." Emmy Award® – winning actor Richard Thomas plays the role of Atticus Finch in the National Tour. FoxTheatre.org

MAY 11TH

Chastain Park Spring Arts Festival

Chastain Park | 10:00 AM

Visitors will enjoy fine art and crafts, a children’s area, and local food and beverage concessions including gourmet food trucks. Local acoustic musicians will enliven the atmosphere. This event is organized by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces and volunteer artists. Best of all, it’s entirely free to attend! ChastainParkArtsFestival.com

MAY 11TH

Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra 50th

Anniversary Celebration

Atlanta Symphony Hall  | 11:00 AM

Celebrate 50 years of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra (ASYO). They'll begin with a special performance by ASYO alumni, led by the founding music director of the ASYO, Michael Palmer, and Jere Flint, who led the ASYO for 35 years. Tickets are free, but must be reserved in advance. ASO.org

for complete terms and conditions. **Offer

2024

June 14, 2024. All applications are subject to credit review and approval. Not all applicants will qualify. Requires purchase of qualifying Lennox® system. No down payment required.

events CONTINUED

MAY 18TH

Brookhaven Bolt

This race is a Brookhaven and North Atlanta favorite and an incredible way to show your support for the community and Ashford Park. Register to race, become a sponsor or volunteer.  BrookhavenBolt.com

MAY 24TH

Atlanta Jazz Festival

Presents WCLK AT 50

Atlanta Symphony Hall | 8:00 PM

This year, WCLK Jazz 91.9 FM celebrates its golden 50th anniversary! The Atlanta Jazz Festival will honor the station and Atlanta’s fabulous community of jazz artists by presenting the concert event WCLK AT 50: Featuring Lil John Roberts with an Atlanta All-Star Band.  WCLK.com/wclk-at-50

MAY 27TH

47th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival

Piedmont Park  | 9:00 AM

Atlanta Jazz Festival is regarded as one of the largest FREE jazz festivals in the country. An annual celebration of the music, culture and art of jazz begins in April and culminates each Memorial Day weekend, with an outdoor festival featuring jazz artists from all over the world. ATLJazzFest.com