Hello friends,
When my mom, Emily, would come to visit us in Marblehead, MA where we lived when our kids were young, she would scoop up a baby and head to the nearest rocking chair. Watching her adore my children and celebrating the new teeth and first steps with her buoyed my experience as a young mom.
Now, I get to scoop up my grandchildren and share their incredible little lives with my sweet daughter, Jane and her husband Joey. They live 20 minutes away. That's almost too far!
This year on Mother's Day, we'll gather and I'll do as little as possible. Except play with grandchildren, fuss over my own grown kids and their partners and send up a prayer of thanks for my good fortune.
I hope you can hug or be hugged this month, while honoring the women in your lives who have cared for you, rocked you, or stood by your side when you needed it most.
Enjoy!
SUE G COLLINS, EDITOR @BUCKHAVENCITYLIFESTYLE
May 2025
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
Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Aleksandar Kapetanovic
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Sean O'Keefe
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Curtis Brown, Jolie Loren
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Light Control for Your Windows Inside and Out
Your home deserves window treatments as unique as your style. Our expert design consultants offer personalized guidance to craft solutions that complement your vision. Schedule your consultation today and discover the art of luxurious living.
city scene
1: City Lifestyle advertising partners at The Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance Gala, Georgia Aquarium. 2: Michael Barrows and Andy Linkon try their luck at the GOCA Gala. 3: Mimi Mulugeta and Michael Barrows indulge in a little bidding. 4: Karyn Slovin and Angela Cassisi strike a pose with the giant sea turtles. 5: Jack Patton, Thacher Helton and Kaleb White at the grand opening of Clark Hall Doors. 6: Kimberly Shires and David Brown enjoying the beautiful evening at the GOCA Gala. 7: The chefs at Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance's gala.
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Chico Cantina now open at Town Brookhaven
Chef Mimmo Alboumeh, acclaimed for his Spanish-inspired Atlanta eateries, recently opened Chico Cantina in Town Brookhaven. This lively Mexican cantina boasts a 4,200-square-foot dining area, a 1,500-square-foot heated patio with 30+ TVs. The menu blends Mexican and American favorites using fresh, local ingredients, complemented by 30+ tequilas and handcrafted cocktails. Open daily, with brunch on weekends. EatChico.com IG: @chicocantinaatl
A Gym For You
Livable Buckhead is creating an outdoor gym near Old Ivy Park on the PATH400. Located beneath the GA 400 overpass, the multi-generational fitness machines will be accessible to older adults and those with physical disabilities. Park Pride and the Community Foundation has graciously funded the project for the Buckhead residents and visitors to enjoy. Go outside!
OVO PAINTING
Exterior House Painting. Interior House Painting commercial Painting. Cabinets. Decks. Color Consulting
ANA
Breakfast on the Beltline in Bed
A staycation for Mother's Day in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood with a Beltline walk and spa day? Yes, please. FORTH Atlanta is a first-ofits-kind hospitality destination for the city, with culinary, design, wellness, culture, and social connection. The lovely 16-floor building features a 196-room luxury boutique hotel, four distinct food & beverage concepts, an expansive outdoor pool and deck, a state-of-the-art fitness center with classes and spa-like wellness offerings. We are fans! ForthAtlanta.com
Save Time and Money on Routine Maintenance & Services
Serenading the Greats
DYNAMO DEB BOWMAN'S NEW ALBUM IS OUT
ARTICLE BY BUCKHAVEN CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF
In the course of her brilliant and varied career as an actress and vocalist, Deb Bowman has embraced several diverse styles, including jazz, pop, gospel, Broadway and Latin music. She brings elements of all of these styles into her new Mama Bama Records release, REFLECTION. Recorded over a two-year period in three different states, the album was originally conceived as a tribute to three contemporary songwriters who passed between 2019 and 2023: Michel Legrand, Burt Bacharach and Stephen Sondheim.
Bowman worked closely with her musical director, pianist Dean Fransen , to create atmospheric settings that enhanced the song lyrics. They felt free to approach the repertoire with arrangements that are quite different than the status quo. For example, the Latin touch applied to the opening track, Sondheim’s “Send in the Clowns” is a far cry from the nearly classical renditions from the original show and subsequent recordings. Fransen had conceived an instrumental version of the song many years earlier, but it wasn’t until after Sondheim’s passing that he adapted the song for Bowman’s voice. The Henry Mancini/Johnny Mercer classic “Moon River” is one of Bowman’s favorite songs. While there was some resistance about including this song, Bowman made the case with a thoughtful interpretation that allows each listener to find their own story within Mercer’s deliberately vague lyrics.
Bowman cites Judy Garland as one of her favorite vocalists, and recording Garland’s signature song “Over the Rainbow” was a long-standing goal. The unique arrangement opens with the sounds of a thunderstorm, the original verse, some abstract instrumental ideas and several spoken aphorisms before segueing into a Latin version of the chorus. The effect of the transition
is reminiscent of when Dorothy opens the door of her transported farmhouse into Munchkinland.
Bruce Harris adds a distinctive muted trumpet solo to the chart. Bowman draws inspiration from another vocal icon, Aretha Franklin, for her rendition of Bacharach’s “This Girl’s in Love with You.” Bowman brings her own version of Franklin’s intensity and soulfulness to the proceedings, while Fransen’s Hammond organ and the solid underpinning of bassist JIM DONICA and drummer JAKUBU GRIFFIN provide a background that straddles the worlds of gospel, jazz and pop.
After a long sojourn in New York City, Deb Bowman relocated to Atlanta, where she performs in a variety of settings. She has appeared in five different productions of Cabaret (in both the lead role of Sally Bowles and the supporting part of Fraülein Kost), as well as in Chicago, Sweeney Todd, Evita and A Streetcar Named Desire. On film, she was part of the cast of Francis Ford Coppola’s latest epic Megalopolis and in the films It’s Complicated and Wall Street 2. On television, Bowman created the role of Miss Woods in the DC Comics series Stargirl and has also appeared in the shows Ugly Betty and Steven Spielberg’s Amazing Stories. Her musical appearances range from performances with the Atlanta Pops Orchestra to intimate cabaret shows. Bowman’s discography includes blues, standards and original songs. She has also released a holiday album and hopes to explore her roots in gospel music on her next album. Bowman carries the lessons of her vast musical training to her own practice as a professional voice coach. Available on DebBowman.com and on all streaming platforms.
IG: DeborahBowman
Youtube @DeborahBowman
“The album was originally conceived as a tribute to three contemporary songwriters who passed between 2019 and 2023: Michel Legrand, Burt Bacharach and Stephen Sondheim.”
Offered at $949,500
Perched above the scenic Cartecay River, this beautifully renovated 5-bed, 4.5-bath chalet offers year-round river and mountain views, blending modern luxury with natural serenity. Highlights include an open-concept layout with hardwood floors, a two-story fireplace, sunroom, finished terrace level with media room and office, plus multiple decks leading to a private swim dock. With a greenhouse, firepit, two oversized garages, a 740 sq ft workshop, and high-speed internet, this home is a perfect full-time residence or mountain getaway.
THREE GENERATIONS OF LOVE
MEET THE GAFFNEY GIRLS
“BAKING AND COOKING ARE A BIG PART OF MY MOM LIFE, FILLING OUR HOME WITH WARMTH AND LOVE, ESPECIALLY WHEN I INVOLVE MY LITTLE ONES IN THE KITCHEN.”
Trisha Gaffney spends Mother’s Day like so many others.
“I spend it mothering. For me, Mother’s Day isn’t about extravagant gifts or grand gestures. It’s about the gift of motherhood itself. It’s a reset, a moment to reflect on how I got here and to continue walking this path with gratitude, despite the many challenges that come with being a mom.”
Trisha is mom to 12-year old Isabella, a student at Wesleyan, and 7-year old twins, Rose and Will who go to the Atlanta Speech School.
Trisha and Andrew Gaffney and their family live in Haynes Manor in Buckhead and we met Isabella and Rose when they were featured among the talented young Atlanta Ballet dancers in BuckHaven City Lifestyle.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOLIE LOREN
Page Henry and her daughter Trisha Gaffney, with Isabella and Rose Gaffney at home in Buckhead.
Page Henry and her daughter Trisha Gaffney, with Isabella and Rose Gaffney.
This month, they gather with their mom and grandmother, “Mimi” (Page Henry), for one of their favorite family activities - baking cookies. Page and Trisha cherish the time spent with the girls. “Baking and cooking are a big part of my Mom life, filling our home with warmth and love, especially when I involve my little ones in the kitchen,” says Trisha. And, for Isabella and Rose? It’s the warm cookies and hugs.
Growing up, Trisha celebrated Mother’s Day with a picnic lunch and family time in a nearby park. This year, the day will be simple, but special, celebrating with cards, extra hugs and breakfast in bed.
“I’m also grateful for the chance to celebrate with my own mother and the special relationship we share. This year feels different, though. It’s our first Mother’s Day without my motherin-law, a woman I’ve known since I was a child,” says Trisha. “My husband and I will find a way to honor her and the love she brought into our lives – because that’s what Mother’s Day is about, too: remembering and celebrating the women who shaped us.”
Happy Mother’s Day to Trisha, Page and all who find the joy in mothering.
The Spa is Calling
THE INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL IS GRACING THE SKYLINE AND REFINING LUXURY IN THE HEART OF BUCKHEAD.
ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN O'KEEFE AND INTERCONTINENTAL BUCKHEAD ATLANTA
InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta
The T-Bone "Steak for Two" is a show stopper
The InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta is the epitome of global elegance, offering a delicious marriage of sophisticated Southern charm and world-class luxury. From the moment of arrival, the exceptional staff provides personalized, attentive service, ensuring every need is met with warmth, professionalism, and grace. The hotel’s elegant and refined interiors, from the grand lobby to the elegantly appointed guest suites, exude sophistication. Whether enjoying an indulgent deep tissue massage at Spa InterContinental, exquisite dining at The Americano, or the new Art of Sleep Restful Retreat, every experience at InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta is meticulously crafted for comfort and opulence.
Offering a refined yet inviting atmosphere, The Americano specializes in perfectly grilled steaks, handmade pastas, hand crafted cocktails, and boasts an extensive wine selection. The restaurant’s interior is both crisp and modern, featuring sleek lines, elegant finishes, dramatic lighting, and a sophisticated ambiance that perfectly balances warmth and refinement. The elegant dining space, impeccable service, and modern, bold flavors create an unforgettable culinary experience.
Just in time for Mother’s Day, experience unparalleled relaxation with an exclusive Restful Retreat: The Art of Sleep Package. This thoughtfully curated two-night escape is designed to restore your body and mind, enhancing restful sleep and overall well-being. From silk eye masks to Lavender mist, no detail has been overlooked. It is a perfect getaway that will leave your body, mind, and soul revitalized.
Spa InterContinental offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city, where guests can indulge in luxurious treatments designed for relaxation and wellness. Featuring serene treatment rooms, skilled therapists, and premium skincare products by Biologique Recherche, the spa provides the perfect escape—whether you’re unwinding after a long day or treating yourself to a moment of self-care.
With impeccable hospitality and an unwavering commitment to excellence, the InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta sets the standard for luxury accommodations in the heart of the city. It is not hard to understand why InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta was named the top in the South by Condé Nast.
The Americano at Intercontinental Buckhead Atlanta is a premier Italian steakhouse by renowned Chef Scott Conant.
which you should review carefully. ^Lennox Industries Inc. (“Lennox”)/dealer is not acting in the capacity of a legal or tax advisor and does not make any representation, warranty, guarantee or other assurance as to whether a particular matchup qualifies or is eligible for a tax credit or rebate. This document has been prepared for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax or legal advice. The IRS, DOE and state energy offices are responsible for the implementation and administration of tax credits/rebates. There are important requirements and limitations for
ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAMI LATRELL
Changing the Music Industry for Everyone
Tami LaTrell’s
Melody
“Music has been in my bones since day one,” says Tami LaTrell. Coming from a musical family, Tami fondly remembers her mom singing as well as her dad playing piano and bass guitar. “When I was a young child,” remembers Tami, “I sang and praise danced in church, performed in school talent shows and even joined a few girl groups.” As a teenager, songwriting became a trusted form of expression for Tami. Equipped with just a pen and her feelings she manifested
an incredible career leading her to becoming a multi-platinum songwriter. Tami’s rich songwriting history includes writing for some of the most iconic female voices of our time, including Whitney Houston, Keyshia Cole, Monica and SWV.
“I learned early on how powerful music is as a healer and communicator,” says Tami, “I carried that into everything I did, from writing music to launching my company, The Mezzo Agency.”
Tami and The Mezzo Agency, based in south Buckhead, help independent music creators, songwriters, and entrepreneurs turn their songs into assets; helping them find and collect unclaimed royalties. Tami’s journey has evolved into a multimillion-dollar empire rooted in ownership, education, and protecting the legacies of music creators.
Currently Tami is busy developing The Mezzo Agency’s co-publishing division, expanding her footprint from royalty administration into ownership of song assets. “I’m writing a no-fluff book to assist female creatives and entrepreneurs navigate the male dominated industry of music and entertainment.”
Tami believes in the harmony that life can offer rather than the simplicity of a typical work life balance; believing that achieving harmony means being intentional. Aligning her personal values and protecting her peace is a big part of Tami’s business strategy. “As a mom, entrepreneur, and spiritualist, my life is layered and rich,” says Tami, “there are seasons when work takes center stage and others when I’m prioritizing rest, motherhood, companionship with my partner, and personal healing.”
For more information about Tami LaTrell and The Mezzo Agency please visit TamiLaTrell.com
Nancy’s World
THE FOUNDER RETURNS TO CELEBRATE BLUE HERON’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY
In 2000, Nancy Jones gathered community members around her kitchen table to devise a plan to save a neighborhood parcel of land from development. She was an art schoolteacher who lived nearby, with a dream of protecting the creeks and wildlife that she and her family had grown to love. What started as a grassroots effort became a thriving 30-acre urban nature preserve, now home to conservation, education, and arts programs. Now, in celebration of Blue Heron’s 25th anniversary, Nancy returns to curate a special art exhibition that weaves together history and art in a powerful tribute to the Preserve’s past and future. Blue Heron Nature Preserve is pleased to announce its 11th annual outdoor art exhibition, Art of Nature.
The annual Art of Nature exhibition explores the profound dialogue between human creativity and the natural world. Nature, a wellspring of artistic inspiration, shapes our very concepts of beauty. Through this reflective exhibition, art becomes a means of deepening our connection to the landscapes we seek to protect, revealing their essence and importance.
This year’s showing is titled Placemaking: Through the Lens of Women, Water and History. The exhibit will explore the history of the land through the eyes of the women who have stewarded it, from the Muscogee tribes that resided there, through the various farms, mills and finally the establishment of the Preserve it is today. This story will unfold
ARTICLE BY CHELSEA DARLING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DOROTHY O'CONNOR
Nature, a wellspring of artistic inspiration, shapes our very concepts of beauty. Art of Nature provides an opportunity to reflect and experience how creativity and the natural world intertwine.
through a curated exhibition featuring works by local women artists—alongside original art by Nancy herself.
THE ART, WHICH WILL BE ON DISPLAY NOW THROUGH JUNE 14, FEATURES A DYNAMIC MIX OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR INSTALLATIONS:
• An indoor exhibition presented by The Atlanta Collage Society
• Large-scale outdoor installations among the trees, presented by artists Dorothy O’Connor, Shannon Willow, Rose Barron, and Nancy Jones
• We’ll also unveil a brand-new mural by Shannon Willow
Art of Nature provides an opportunity to reflect and experience how creativity and the natural world intertwine. This exhibition is made possible by the generous support of Northside Hospital.
ABOUT BLUE HERON NATURE PRESERVE
Blue Heron Nature Preserve is a 30-acre greenspace within the City of Atlanta Park system, managed by an independent 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization with a mission to create a personal experience with nature through Conservation, Education, and the Arts. Blue Heron Nature Preserve is home to the 3-mile Blueway Trail, which allows visitors to experience four distinct ecosystems nestled in the heart of Buckhead. Founded in 2000 by local resident and schoolteacher Nancy Jones, Blue Heron Nature Preserve fulfills its mission through the support of donations and sponsorships.
BHNP.org
The exhibit will explore the history of the land through the eyes of the women who have stewarded it, from the Muscogee tribes that resided there, through the various farms, mills and finally the establishment of the Preserve it is today.
Nancy Jones
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS MAY 2025
MAY 2ND
Druid Hills Tour of Homes
Druid Hills neighborhood
As the longest-running home tour in Atlanta, the Historic Druid Hills Home & Garden Tour has showcased many stunning homes and landscapes over the years. Brought to you by the Druid Hills Civic Association and organized by an army of volunteers, it is the one Atlanta home tour you don't want to miss! May 2-4. DruidHillsTour.org
MAY 3RD
BuckheadRUN! 2025 – Pet a Llama
Lenox Square | 9:00 AM
This year, BuckheadRUN! isn’t just about running—it’s about making Buckhead a little wilder (without any actual wildlife escaping onto Peachtree Road). Celebrate the future sculpted petting zoo along the new PATH400 extension including a lifesized elephant, a towering giraffe, and a not-so-menacing crocodile to the heart of the city. LivableBuckhead.com
MAY 7TH
50 Years & Growing with Charlotte Moss
Atlanta History Center - Buckhead Campus | 7:00 PM
Celebrate the Cherokee Garden Library—a growing collection of 40,000 rare and contemporary works telling the diverse and meaningful stories of people and plants that have shaped the Southeastern United States and beyond. Enjoy a lively lecture, followed by an author’s book signing and a festive cocktail reception.
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SCAD Honors GOVERNORS
Stude with Red Maple portra
Georgia’s rich forestland, Governor Kemp, and five former governors have been jointly honored in a series of original paintings by talented SCAD painting students.
In a special ceremony at the state capitol, SCAD students presented tree portraits commissioned by the Georgia Forestry Commission in honor of Georgia Arbor Day to honor Georgia Governors’ legacy in trees.
SCAD SERVE VP Scott Linzey, SCAD Painting Students, Gov Brian Kemp, First Lady Marty Kemp, Former governor Nathan Deal and GFC Director Johnny Sabbo attended to celebrate the work.
