As spring blossoms casting a vibrant hue across the county, we are thrilled to present the March issuethemed "Home and Design." In this edition, we delve into the alluring tapestry of Canton, celebrating the fusion of history and modern design that graces our picturesque towns and lifestyles. March in Georgia brings a renewed sense of energy. Businesses have a flywheel of momentum from Q1, and finally, temperatures continue to climb towards weekly golf tournaments at Fairways, Bridgemill, and Woodmont.
Across the town in Union Hill, we explore culinary design excellence where the past intertwines with the present. There is a kaleidoscope of cocktails and unique dining experiences to be enhanced at a local favorite spot, 7 Acre BarNGrill. We unveil their ultimate cocktail recipe and a big announcement for the expanding cafe community.
City Lifestyle editor Jennifer and team coordinated an outstanding piece that visits some of our city's oldest and latest homes to unravel the tales behind modern residences that effortlessly blend innovation with tradition. Let the spirit of spring start to emerge. Whether you are drawn to the echoes of history that linger in the air or the avant-garde designs that push the boundaries of possibility, there is a symphony of elegance with the old and new.
Lifestyle in Canton continues to reinvent itself while still holding onto the sense of humility and faith in serving others. The newly renovated Hickory Flat Chick-fil-A drive-thru gives a daily opportunity to 'pay it forward' with Kevin Williams and his team. While food drives at New Life Church Canton (exit 14) are exploding from the generous giving of the congregation, they thrive under Pastor Allan Malloy. He Is Risen indeed! Happy Easter, Canton.
Thank you for engaging with us weekly on Instagram and Facebook with your real-time content and celebrations; we are committed to sharing your Canton. I invite you to connect with us and showcase your best-in-class for our growing community.
CHICKA ELLOY, PUBLISHER @CANTONCITYLIFESTYLE
March 2024
Chicka Elloy | chicka.elloy@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Jennifer Elloy | jennifer.elloy@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Charlie Divine, Jennifer Elloy, Kaylene Ghorley
Dabbs, Kathryn Wheeler
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jenny Johnson - @jenny_k_johnson
Kevin Jonas-Davis @kdaviswhat
Kaylene Ghorley Dabbs @mindfulmktggroup
John Humphreys
Robinson
PRODUCING OUTSTANDING RESULTS • CREATING GREAT EXPERIENCES TREATING OUR PATIENTS LIKE OUR OWN FAMILY MEMBERS
WHEN YOU LOOK GOOD, WE LOOK GOOD.
1: Chelsea Winters and @jennifer_bohrer_realtor: Shingle All the Way meets The American Dream. 2: The Quarterly Cherokee Filmmaker’s Meetup at Reformation Brewery Canton, learn more at CherokeeGa.org 3: Society Boutique is ready to get you vested! New inventory in store at Canton Marketplace. 4: Canton Business Club gathers each Wednesday to connect and celebrate business growth in Canton. 5: Cherokee History Center Marketing Team is exploring new venues for meetings with @visitnwga Travel Association! 6: Let’s go for a drive. Find a forever home with an adorable doodle. 7: Yummy! Giggle Monsters will hit every tastebud with their craft donuts.
@SOCIETYBOUTIQUE
@GIGGLEMONSTERS
@TERMINUS_ROOFINGANDRESTORATION
@HEAVENONEARTHGOLDENDOODLES
@CANTONBUSINESSCLUB
@CHEROKEEOED
@ROOMOUNTAINVINEYARDS
As the epicenter of goodwill for the community, Local Church Canton is opening doors and sharing its space every day, not just on Sundays. Five ministries and nonprofits use the property during the week, and there is room for several more who need it. Child advocacy, leadership development, and food pantries are now collaborating. Follow @LocalChurchCanton and join Pastor Nathan Castleberry and the team in The Mill for Easter services with the family.
William and Kelly Thomas are launching Cherokee County's only indoor golfing venue. The Golf2Grow Indoor Golf Experience will be open soon for a night out with friends, realistic swing analysis, and a PGA professional available for private lessons. Located just off Towne Lake Parkway (between Woodstock and Etowah HS), they are sourcing F&B from the neighboring eateries to create a unique local experience. Book your tee time and find out more today: Golf2Growindoor.com
Elevate your events where mixology becomes an extraordinary experience! Discover the art of cocktails with the masters of innovation. Have fun with bartenders and hire them for your next party. You can relax as Lemy and the crew set up all the tools needed for a party at your place. Available for weddings, corporate events, quinceañera, and luxury parties. See the action: @AtlMixers_ on social and request your quote today.
We're a custom home-building company committed to building homes that exceed your expectations. We believe a home is not just a place to live, it is a foundation upon which families create memories and build dreams.
That's why we're here.
770-285-0108
We admire historical places for the way they allow us to connect with the past and remind us of days gone by. History gives a unique charm and character to each building, home, and street with their architecture and design and the stories they tell us.
each generation has left their mark on the home through various renovations and updates. Originally, the home was a dogtrot house, characterized by a large, open breezeway in the middle of the building, built to take advantage of the breeze during hot, humid Georgia
“EACH GENERATION HAS WOVEN A HISTORIC THREAD INTO THE FABRIC OF THE HOME.”
Canton is a community blessed with a rich history touched by many generations. Three families, in particular, have left a legacy through the homes they built that are still enjoyed by our community today. The first is the Grisham-Galt-Magruder House, built in 1841 by William Grisham, one of the city’s founders. The Greek Revival style home is likely Canton’s oldest and has seen over 180 years of history – including General Sherman’s Army making their way through Georgia.
For the past forty years, the home has been enjoyed by Nell Galt Magruder, the great-great-granddaughter of Mr. Grisham. When asked about the house, Mrs. Magruder explains that
summers. Above all, she reflects on fond memories related to the house – back when it belonged to her grandmother and was a place of comfort, family, and joy.
A few miles outside Canton, sitting on 22 acres and surrounded by historic oak trees, sits The Wheeler House, a nearly 120-year-old home turned wedding venue and event space. Originally built as a private home of the owner of the Wheeler lumber yard, this historic home is the picture of Southern elegance. It has original floors, walls, and ceilings made of the finest heart pine, and of course, a Southern home wouldn’t be complete without the wrap-around porches.
After many years of abandonment and disrepair, The Wheeler House was purchased by local Lee Lusk. What followed was a top-to-bottom renovation that preserved the home's historic integrity while bringing it new life. The owner understood the value that a historic home holds simply by virtue of its longevity and character. Today, The Wheeler House is a destination for brides all over the Southeast who are looking for a touch of Southern charm or a rustic chic vibe with a ceremony at the property’s barn.
In much the same way homes were designed years ago, homes today are designed according to functionality. That functionality looks different thanks to technological advances, family life changes, and more. Luckily, Jennifer Bohrer, a realtor and TV host specializing in luxury homes, shares what the modern home buyer is looking for in their dream house.
Jennifer says ‘smart’ tech is all the rage with new buyers. Families are looking for smart appliances, thermostats, and home systems in new builds and renovated homes. A focus on sustainability and energy efficiency also stands out to Jennifer. She noticed buyers are interested in energy-efficient windows, solar panels, and electric vehicle charging stations.
With the increased popularity of working from home, family dynamics have shifted – and so has the need for space. Jennifer shares that more and more buyers are interested in having designated home office space, not a transformable guest room. That need for extra space also applies to children, with many families looking for playrooms and entertainment space for their kids. When the working day is done, Jennifer says people are looking for aesthetic yet functional outdoor spaces to enjoy. Families want to sit around the fire pit on the balmy summer evenings with friends and family.
Whether you are looking for a historic home or a new build, Canton and the surrounding areas have a wealth of history and progress ready for each of us to explore.
The Wheeler House
TheWheelerHouse.net
This is one of my constant “go to” DIY projects. It’s fast, it’s easy and it looks oh so professional. I love displaying photos, but I don’t necessarily love a lot of photo frames. These canvases create a crisp, clean look... All in about 30 minutes! Let’s get started.
STEP 1:
First things first, grab your supplies.
• Photo on photo paper
• 1 ½ inch thick wrapped canvas
• Mod Podge in Matte finish
• Black spray paint in Satin finish
• Clear spray paint in Satin finish
• 4 inch or 6 inch foam paint roller
• Small paint tray
Place your photo on the clean, dry canvas to make sure it fits correctly. Trim if necessary.
STEP 2:
Spray paint the canvas sides and a little of the top with the black spray paint. It is VERY important to let this dry completely.
STEP 3:
Using your foam roller, roll Mod Podge over the entire top of the canvas. Center your photo on top of the wet Mod Podge. Smooth the photo with your hands starting in the middle and pushing out toward the edges
STEP 4:
Roll a thin even layer of Mod Podge over your photo. This is a little scary “painting” over your photo, but I promise it will dry clear. Once it is covered with a thin layer start at one side and roll straight rows from side to side, in the same direction, as to avoid roller lines once it dries. If you see small bubbles in the wet Mod Podge, it is too thick. Thin it out by taking an almost dry roller over the photo to lift some of the Mod Podge. Repeat until the bubbles are gone. Let this dry completely.
STEP 5:
Spray the top and sides of the entire canvas and photo with satin spray paint. Dry…Hang….High Five. Congratulations on your new Photo Canvas!
This same technique can be used on 4x4 tiles of your choice to create custom coasters. You will add a bit of Peel and Stick Cork or felt to the back of the tile so the coaster doesn’t scratch. Cheers!
Signature
Not everyone has the gift of a designer's eye and attention to detail, but those of us who know Ella Murdock would say she’s a master of making magic happen in a space.
Since 2017, Southernite Interiors has been helping its clients redefine their spaces with artistic precision. Ella Murdock, owner and principal designer of Southernite Interiors, brings beauty and functionality to life in each of her design concepts.
Not only does the Southernite team provide heartfelt customer service, but they also strive to create “timeless style” in each one of their design concepts. Each project focuses on equipping every client with pieces of design that eschews trends and melds the past with the present. For instance, the use of wallpaper and warm metal tones has been seen throughout many decades but is shown here with a colorful update. Ella’s keen eye allows her to add thought-provoking accessories, like the golden woodpecker cabinet pull or the vintage stool, in an otherwise modern room.
Every person’s vision of a room counts with Southernite Interiors. Not only is the quality of furnishings outstanding, but the design efforts made by Ella and her team go far beyond the standards held by many. They love collaborating with their clients to present the best version of each client's dream design. As Southernite Interiors embarks on new adventures in 2024, we look forward to Canton and surrounding areas benefiting from such a talented and humble steward of timeless, exceptional quality design.
Celebrating Five Years and opening a new cafe at Scottsdale Farms
ARTICLE BY CHARLIE DIVINE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNY JOHNSONOn the eastern border of Canton lies a property that has seamlessly become a culinary gem, blending history, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to community excellence. 7 Acre BarNGrill is a familiar and cherished dining experience in the area.
The building itself exudes authenticity, a silent witness to the changing tides of modern times. Rooted in 1930s architecture, the restaurant offers patrons a journey back in time. Once a historic feed and seed store that transformed into a gas station, it now stands reborn as an enticing BarNGrill, preserving the timeless feel of days gone by. As guests enter, they are greeted by the aroma of hearty appetizers giving way to an inviting long bar. The charm emanates from the creaking wooden floors and the mystique of split-level seating areas.
Josh Read, partner of the establishment and Cornwell UK native, describes it as "an immersive experience where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present, creating a unique atmosphere that sets us apart."
Honoring the character of the past, the property embraces imperfections with its charming aged architectural blemishes. They are visual metaphors for guests to embrace as they dine with family within the shell that defines the tapestry of the restaurant's history on its 7-acre property.
The long bar houses an exquisite whiskey selection, showcasing a commitment to providing a deep menu of choices for its discerning customers. At the centerpiece of this collection lies the mesmerizing Infinity Bottle, a tall glass beverage dispenser that transcends old traditions with a modern twist. The Infinity Bottle - a forever pour, is a beacon for whiskey lovers, representing a departure from the conventional practice of
combining the last sips of various labels into one mixed dispenser. The team has revolutionized this tradition by pouring full bottles of rare and exceptional labels into a singular concoction.
As each bottle empties, Polaroids are placed within the pages of a leather-bound chronicle. The book allows patrons to flip through its pages and witness the progression of its history. Pappy's, Blanton's, Eagle Rare, and Boss Hog—all sold as one single pour! Whether it's something magical or a delightful surprise, patrons become part of the Infinity experience captured in this ever-evolving masterpiece.
Josh envisions 7 Acre BarNGrill as more than just a cocktail or culinary destination. He expresses, "The goal for 7 Acre would be to become more of a respected culinary powerhouse in the area. We will be making more respectful decisions about the products we bring in. Buy from more farmers and grow more of our vegetables." In collaboration with Chris Sedgwick, a visionary behind 10+ properties around Atlanta, Josh emphasizes a commitment to creating hyper-local experiences that resonate with the community's heart and soul. Sedgwick owns a piece of land opposite The Union, and he's invested and partnered with Chris Mitchel, who works at 7 Acre, to become the farmer/gardener there to grow vegetables in a big way this year.
2024 is a fifth birthday celebration, setting the stage for a remarkable gathering that has grown in scale and splendor each year. Last year's festivities saw a spectacle unfold, with a lamb roasting outside, accompanied by the lively tunes of a band, drawing in approximately 200 attendees. This year's celebration promises to surpass expectations. Visit @7acrebarngrill for updates.
Ingredients:
• Ice and a King Icecube
• 2oz Gin – Preferably London dry
• .1 oz Benedictine
• .75oz Fresh Lemon
• .75 oz fresh basil syrup or 1:1 sugar syrup
• A generous bouquet of basil leaves
• Black pepper
Method:
• Begin with a chilled glass
• Pour Gin and then fresh lemon juice into a shaker
• Add the sugar syrup (can be boiled in a pan with a cup of water)
• If you prefer sour, reduce the sugar
• Keep a basil sprig for garnish
• In your shaker, crush 8-10 leaves and bruise to draw out oils of basil
• Add two bar spoons of B&B Benedictine liqueur to the shaker mix
• Add some ice, shake hard, add more ice, and shake a second time
• Dump ice cooling glass and replace it with a king ice cube
• Double-strain from shaker to glass to keep basil bits from the drink
• Garnish with basil leaf and cracked black pepper. Cheers!
This spring, an exciting new chapter is on the horizon as Josh and the partners at 7 Acre, with the addition of Tyler Williams Chef, continue to carve out a solid reputation across the Canton and Milton landscape. They will unveil “The Cafe at Scottsdale Farms.” Open 8 am-3 pm. This latest venture promises to deliver breakfast and lunch with sophistication, including English high tea offerings. It is a testament to their partnership and dedication to diversifying their culinary repertoire and brand for the community.
Visit TheCafeatScottsdaleFarms.com
What’s the secret to a happy, healthy, and long life? Believe it or not, it’s actually quite simple: There are no secret ingredients, no sizable expenditures, and absolutely zero manufactured elements of any kind. Dive in with us as we share insights from our interview with the internationally renowned Blue Zones Founder, National Geographic Explorer, and award-winning journalist who is revolutionizing the way Americans make choices that can lead to living your best life.
New York Times Best Selling Author and Netflix Producer, Dan Buettner, Inspires a Better Life Based on Research from the World’s Healthiest Cultures.
For over twenty years, Dan Buettner has been fully committed to studying the health and longevity of Americans as well as influencing the proper and attainable health-centric environments our communities should embody. What started with identifying five “blue zones” around the world where people are both living longer as well as enjoying a higher quality of life in their elder years has now also evolved into proactively creating eco-systems where our communities engage in setting the standard for clean health.
Most of us are well aware of the “American way of life” we reside in, that being one of convenience in all shapes and forms. We excel in offering the most fast food options in any country. We rank at the top of the most cars per household. We embrace a sedentary at-home lifestyle. In short, we categorically live in a country where processed foods and ultra-convenience, unfortunately, translate to life-threatening health diseases and a lack of organic joy.
What is the best news of all? All of these characteristics are wildly easy to overcome with effortless, yet conscious pivots to making better decisions with our time, our food, and our focus. Ask yourself: Are you driving or walking? Are you connecting socially? Set your sights on avoiding the majority of processed foods and start eating a largely whole-food and plant-based diet that will (statistically) give you another 10-12 years on your life.
Buettner’s first cookbook, The Blue Zones Kitchen, is a fantastic resource featuring ingredients and cooking methods that can increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. The recipes also include lifestyle tips such as proper portion sizes and the best times to eat dinner. Plus, check out his additional seven books that dig deep into the exact foods you should eat to how your circle of friends and family can influence your quality of life.
Who do you hang out with? Happiness is contagious. “The Blue Zone approach is to go through your contact base and think of some friends whose recreation is pickleball, biking, or gardening. Who will care about you on a bad day and have a meaningful conversation? Identify one or two friends who are vegan or vegetarian and show you how and where to eat whole foods. Actively invite them out for lunch, and bring them into your social circle: this will have a bigger, long-term impact on your behavior than any new diet or exercise, and it costs you zero. Plus, there is a ton of data that shows it works, and it’s long-term.”
Every time you go out to eat, you will consume an extra 300 calories that are laden with more sodium, sugar, and oil than eating at home. “Get your hands on a plant-based cookbook, pick a dozen recipes, and cook those with your family on Sundays. If you make the effort to cook it with your family, you will gain the skills and learn to make some good and whole food plant-based recipes.”
Tap into Dan’s wisdom that is creating a new category of places that are not merely the legacy of a healthy culture, but more consciously created by enlightened individuals that are intent on supercharging healthier communities!
“GET YOUR HANDS ON A PLANT-BASED COOKBOOK, PICK A DOZEN RECIPES, AND COOK THOSE WITH YOUR
Follow @DanBuettner and @BlueZones
BlueZones.com
The Service League of Cherokee County was first founded in 1935, at a time when the community was feeling several emotions. Most were financially burdened from the Great Depression and feared war was just across the horizon. Out of the depressive abyss, nine women founded the Service League to deliver milk to numerous needy children within the Canton community.
Today, the same impactful women of our community band together to serve those children in need through diverse programs. When a need arises, the Service League can meet those needs immediately due to the league’s wonderful relationship with CCSD counselors, and CCSD and League case workers vet each child served by the generous donations raised yearly.
The Service League incorporates just as many working Moms today as stay-at-home Moms. Marcey Stein, current league president, works fulltime at Revolution Church. Stein joyfully noted, “I love the willingness of the woman to donate 50 hours of their time to serve our wonderful community for ten years.”
The biggest fundraiser for the Service League is the annual Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival. Anyone can volunteer to help with the event; for more information, visit ServiceLeague.Net . Join the fun by helping kids in need.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
June 14th
Golfing Fore! The Children’s Golf Tournament
September 28th-29th
Annual Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival
ARTICLE BY KAYLENE GHORLEY DABBS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SERVICE LEAGUE OF CHEROKEE COUNTY
Illumination of the impactful dedication of Service League of Cherokee
Add a spa-like feel to your home with this refreshing soap recipe that's simple to make at home.
ARTICLE BY ANGI HOCKETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
The art of soap making has come a long way since our grandmothers’ day. All the nourishing oils, beautiful colors, scents and exfoliants would have been a dream to her. Today, it is easy to custom make soap for any skin type. Adding oils such as avocado, olive, jojoba, and argon are just a few ingredients to make a rich smooth bar.
Not only do handmade soaps get super-fatted oils to add moisture, they can also include some amazing exfoliants, additives and scents. A few of my favorites are honey, aloe juice, goat’s milk, activated charcoal and clays.
If you want to get started making soap try this simple pour and mold recipe.
ingredients
•2 lb. goat’s milk melt-and-pour soap
•1 lemon rind, zested
•3 tablespoons of dried lavender buds
• 2 tablespoons of honey
•15 drops of lavender essential oil
•6 drops of lemon essential oil
• Jar or bowl for melting soap base
• Silicone mold
directions
Chop soap into smaller pieces. It will melt faster this way. Place in bowl and microwave (or double boil). Be careful to watch soap and not let it burn. If you are using microwave, heat in 30 second increments, stirring frequently. Once soap is melted add your essential oils first. Once essential oils have been added and mixed thoroughly, add the lavender buds, lemon zest and honey. Have your mold ready to go, on a flat, even surface. You’ll want to move quickly before the soap cools too much. Mix everything thoroughly again, and pour mixture into mold. Let the soap cool for 2-3 hours until bars are completely solid. Wrap or package however you like.
Recipe from Sisoo.com
MARCH 2024
MARCH 2ND
351 West Main St., Canton, GA 30114 | 12:00 PM
Artists and the community are excited about the opportunity to hold a fine arts festival in Downtown Canton, GA. In the developing area of West Main Street, the connecting point between Historic Downtown and The Mill on Etowah, Fine Artists will take over the streets for an afternoon of art, food, music, and family-friendly fun. MenagerieOnMain.com/west-main-arts-festival
MARCH 2ND
11905 Hwy 92 Woodstock, GA First Baptist Church of Woodstock | 10:00 AM
Serenade Heights is a supportive transitional housing alternative for single-mother families designed to service Cherokee County, GA, and surrounding areas. We believe they can rebuild, grow, and dream again by providing a safe, God-centered home environment for these single moms and their children. Come run to give these moms a chance! Runsignup.com/Race/GA/Woodstock/SerenadeHeights5K
MARCH 14TH
YANMAR Evo Center 5889 Old Alabama Rd, Acworth, GA 30102 | 5:00 PM
We are excited to invite you to the 5th Annual Cherokee Film Summit! Join us to celebrate success, acknowledge present challenges, and provide a vision for the future. Access expert knowledge, indulge in heavy hors d'oeuvres, and enjoy our breakout sessions and feature panel speakers. CherokeeGa.org/Cherokee-film-summit
MARCH 15TH
7345 Cumming Highway, Canton, GA 30115 | 6:00 PM
Switch up the average Easter Egg Hunt for an adventurous Flashlight Egg Hunt! Meet the Easter Bunny, explore the Kid Zone, make and take crafts, dance to music, enjoy craft and food vendors & get your face painted. Children will be separated into different age groups. $10 per child for preregistration. $15 per child for the day of registration. PlayCherokee.org
MARCH 16TH
225 Reformation Parkway Canton, GA 30114 | 9:00 AM
The third annual Georgia Wildlife Expo outdoor event is on March 16th and 17th at The Mill on Etowah in downtown Canton. This twoday event will feature over 100 vendors, a falconry educational show, bass fishing demonstrations, a reptile show, and dock diving dogs— kid and pet-friendly. EtowahWildlLifeExpo.com
MARCH 23RD
600 Brown Industrial Pkwy, Canton, GA 30114 (Exit #19B off I-575) | 12:00 PM
If you like great-tasting chicken wings with bold sauces and rockin’ music, you'll love the 2-day Wing and Rock Festival. In its 17th year, the festival is at the beautiful Etowah River Park, an 80-acre park in Canton, Georgia, featuring an open-air amphitheater and plenty of parking. FREE family-friendly event offers something for everyone. WingandRockfest.com
