Canton, GA May 2026

Celebrating Women M AY 2 02 6

Look to Northside

for advanced care close to home We’re guided by a drive to deliver excellent care with kindness and understanding.

From providers dedicated to your well-being to advanced treatments focused on you, look to Northside Hospital Cherokee to experience the difference compassionate expertise can make.

Ask your doctor for more information or visit northside.com

Northside Hospital Cherokee Physician Spotlight PERIMETER NORTH MEDICAL ASSOCIATES – WOODSTOCK Dr. Stacy Stewart 900 Towne Lake Pkwy.

Suite 210 Woodstock, GA 30189

770-592-2300 pnfm.com

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

She Leads. She Inspires.

She Builds.

There is a quiet strength that holds everything together. You see it in the way a mother steadies her household before the sun comes up. You hear it in the voice of a business owner who took a chance on herself and never looked back. You feel it in the way a wife encourages her husband to become the man he was called to be.

Chicka means girl, yes, I know! As a father of two daughters, a brother of two sisters, and someone who grew up completely surrounded by aunties, I have seen firsthand what a strong and confident woman brings to a family, a business, and a community. The man may be the spiritual head of the household, but it is often the women who shape the vision, steady the ship, and push everyone around them to be better. I would not be who I am without the women who shaped me, including my moon goddess wife, Jenny.

This issue is dedicated to the remarkable women of Canton and Cherokee County. We sit down with several powerhouse businesswomen and community leaders. They speak about success, leadership, and provide nuggets of wisdom to future generations. These women are not waiting for permission. They are building right now.

We are honored to meet with Becky Hillyard, an influencer who has grown her brand with authenticity, creativity, and serious style. Her story reminds us that there is room for everyone to shine when you stay true to who you are.

We spotlight beautiful, sparkling jewelry because every lady deserves to shine. And we land close to home with Coosa Valley Credit Union, led locally by standout women who are redefining banking with heart and purpose. Neighbors helping neighbors.

And to every momma reading this, Happy Mother’s Day. You are the heartbeat of your home and the reason your family stands tall. Thank you for every sacrifice, every early morning, every quiet prayer over your babies. We see you. We honor you. To all the women of Canton and Cherokee County that I missed in featuring in May, you inspire us daily. I am ready to hear about your story. Thank you for being the glue that holds us together and the spark that moves us forward.

May 2026 PUBLISHER

Chicka Elloy | chicka.elloy@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Jennifer Elloy | jennifer.elloy@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennifer Elloy, Mindy Wester, Sam Payne, Kali Kasorzyk C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Canton City Lifestyle, Naomi Hopkins Photography, Liz Deluca, Sarah Handle

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

This is Your City. This is Your Lifestyle.

C H I C K A E L L O Y, P U B L I S H E R @CANTONCITYLIFESTYLE

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

Proverbs 3:5-6 Canton City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Canton area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CANTONGA

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

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

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Are you ready for Kinder banking? number. At Coosa Valley Credit Union, we are committed to banking with kindness, and just doing what is right.

Every day. Every member. Come join us.

Come to our Valley Vibes event! in support of Cherokee County 911 Foundation

May 14th @ 4:30pm-6pm Food & Prizes available

Ready to get started?

152 Prominence Point Pkwy

inside the issue MAY 2 0 2 6 | L A DI ES

26 30

12 Featured

12 16

26 30 6

Spectacular Spread

Transform Your Mother’s Day Celebration

Voices of Canton: Women Leading the Way

Local leaders share the passion, purpose, and vision shaping Canton’s future.

16 On the Cover

Departments

Tiara is a dedicated community leader in Canton whose passion for service and connection drives everything she does. With a heart for people and a vision for growth, she leads by example every day.

4

Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

10

Business Monthly

12

Must See FOOD + BEVERAGE

15

How To FOOD + BEVERAGE

16

Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE

22

Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE

26

Financial Buzz FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES

30

Artist’s Palette BEAUTY

34

Events

Banking with Purpose

How Coosa Valley Credit Union is empowering members and building wealth.

Jewelry as Art

Brenda Smith transforms personal journeys into extraordinary jewelry, empowering women through artistry, meaning, and design

Photography: ATL Photographer: Danielle J @bydvniellej

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M AY 2 0 2 6

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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@NORTHSIDECHEROKEE

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1: Come get a Practically Perfect Pamper session at The Mill On Etowah. 2: They unite hearts, talents, and purposes to create magical and wondrous things. 3: CeCe Teneal at the Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt with soul music. 4: Northside Saves and we love our Cherokee Team 5: Bad round? Good round? Doesn’t matter. A Frozen Transfusion fixes both. 6: Free hugs and Jesus. Come see Pastor Nathan bring the word this weekend 7: This is Katie Bowling, bowling FYI. You know she throws strikes for Coosa Valley CU

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TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ C A N T O N C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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C I T Y SC E N E

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / CA N TO N GA

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M AY 2 0 2 6

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

With Love and Respect Our Canton community honors a beloved restaurateur, Mike Fararr, whose impact extended far beyond food, including the development of places where people gathered, celebrated, and felt at home. Shelly and family are carrying that legacy forward with strength, grace, and determination. We send love and encouragement to 'Shelly from the Deli', ensuring that your community is behind you and that the restaurants remain not just businesses but generational cornerstones at J. Michael's Prime and Riverstone Corner Bistro.

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C A ULA T C E R SP

SPR E A D TRANSFORM YOUR MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION INTO AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE WITH A STUNNING CHARCUTERIE BOARD

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER

A

s Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to go beyond traditional gifts As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to go beyond traditional gifts and express your love with a feast for the senses. Create a captivating and vibrant charcuterie board that brings together a symphony of sweet and savory delights, edible rosettes and an array of delectable treats that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate.

At the heart of this spectacular spread, a bouquet of floral offerings takes center stage featuring assorted chocolate florets, delicate white rose wafers, and salami and cheese blossoms. Perfectly crafted and delicious, they establish the visual and gastronomic theme for the

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M UST SE E | FO O D + BEVERAGE

entire display. Accompanying the spread are glasses adorned with edible floral rims, beckoning you to sip and savor the essence of spring; dried lavender, marigold, rose, lemon peel and lily garnishes provide vibrancy and are entirely edible. Elevate the visual appeal with rosefolded napkins and a sprinkle of seasonal flowers atop layers of fresh greenery.

Complement your floral artistry with a curated variety of cheeses, prosciutto, colorful olives, fresh blueberries and strawberries, and candied oranges. Fragrant rosemary bread is perfectly paired with choice preserves, honey and olive oil.

Extend the creative flair to pastries, introducing a variety of shapes, colors and textures. Citrus-infused sugar cookies,

raspberry tarts, mini strawberry Belgian waffles and salted caramels are visually alluring and add an extra layer of delight to the overall presentation.

The beauty of crafting a charcuterie board lies in its versatility – an opportunity to showcase your thoughtfulness and create an experience tailored to your loved ones. Consider swapping chocolates for macarons, experiment with your own garden herbs and infuse your spread with unique seasonal and local flavors. A charcuterTEA is a delightful way to make your mother feel extra special. Simply fill a teacup with her favorite confections and unique flavor combinations for an individual experience of love and gratitude.

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / CA N TO N GA

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CELEBRATING THE PEOPLE, EVENTS, AND ORGANIZATIONS THAT DEFINE OUR COMMUNITY.

PROUDLY SUPPORTING CHEROKEE COUNTY KrauseFamilyFord.com 770‑592‑0090 | 195 Woodstock Pkwy, Woodstock, GA

DELIGHT MOM WITH HOMEMADE BELGIAN WAFFLES ARTICLE BY MATTHEW SOUSA Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to treat Mom to a special homemade breakfast, and nothing says “I love you” like a plate of warm, fluffy Belgian waffles. These waffles are crispy on the outside, light and airy on the inside, and perfect for a delicious morning celebration.

CLASSIC BELGIAN WAFFLE RECIPE Ingredients: • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 tbsp sugar • 1 tbsp baking powder • ½ tsp salt • 2 eggs, separated • 1¾ cups milk • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted • 1 tsp vanilla extract Instructions: 1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

4. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.

5. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour in enough batter to cover the surface and cook until golden brown and crisp.

Serving Suggestions: Top the waffles with fresh berries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup or chocolate sauce. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice for a perfect Mother’s Day surprise.

This simple yet elegant breakfast is a heartfelt way to show Mom just how much she means to you. Happy Mother’s Day!

Mother’s Day BREAKFAST

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Voices of Canton: Women Leading the Way LOCAL LEADERS SHARE THE PASSION, PURPOSE, AND VISION SHAPING CANTON’S FUTURE. ARTICLE BY JENNIFER ELLOY

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Ashley Rowe Harwell

Katie Pearson

Business Development Officer, LGE Community Credit Union

Chief Operating Officer – Northside Hospital, Cherokee

As I’ve grown both personally and professionally, I’ve realized that success isn’t about titles or accomplishments; it’s about the ripple effect you create. Women play an essential and dynamic role in shaping the future of Woodstock. We are often the connectors, the ones who build relationships, nurture, and create spaces where people feel seen and supported. I would tell the next generation that kindness is one of the most powerful leadership tools you’ll ever have. It opens doors, builds trust, and creates meaningful connections with incredible people. I’d also share the advice my dad gave me growing up—the “three S’s”: Smile (you have a great one). See (always make eye contact). Spirit (bring positivity wherever you go). These simple principles can take you farther than you imagine and help you lead with both authenticity and grace.

Purpose is often developed over time through real experiences, meaningful work, and a willingness to keep growing.

For the next generation of women leaders, success begins with cultivating skills that truly matter, clear thinking, strong communication, follow-through, and independence.

Leadership can be deeply fulfilling, but it also demands resilience, humility, and thoughtful decision-making. Stay grounded, lead with integrity, and aim to create lasting value.

Trust your voice, but remain open to learning. Take care of your body, mind, and spirit along the way. Meaningful leadership isn’t about seeking attention; it is built through character, consistency, and the impact you leave over time. Serving at Northside Cherokee has reinforced that belief every single day. When you work with a community that trusts you with their health and their families, you understand that true leadership is measured by the lives you touch.

CONTINUED >

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Dana Cox Mallett Director of Development and Marketing, The Mill on Etowah I didn’t know much about Canton until we began redeveloping the historic mill in 2018, but it has become truly meaningful to me. Since then, our company, our tenants, and my career have become deeply rooted here. To me, success is seeing this community thrive. Working alongside small businesses and inspiring women has further fueled my passion.

Women play a vital role in shaping Canton’s future through vision, collaboration, and heart. There is incredible opportunity here to support residents, grow businesses, and strengthen the community, and I’m more committed each year to being part of what’s ahead.

Kim Bishop Public Relations Director, GA Impact & Cherokee Youth Foundation To me, success is defined by how well you love the people in your community. I have seen mountains moved by people who simply love well. As I have grown in my position, it has become abundantly clear that if you can share your love and passion for helping and serving others, you will never go wrong. Each day I get to serve is one I do not take for granted, and I pray that what I do makes a lasting and meaningful impact not only on our community but also on my children and grandchildren.

Patty Pan Public Information Officer, Cherokee Sheriff’s Office To me, success today means impact, not accolades. After more than 25 years in television, I measured success by the stories I told and the ratings earned. Now, working in law enforcement, success is rooted in building trust and serving the public in meaningful ways. Flipping the camera’s sides shifted my perspective; it’s no longer about recognition but about connection. This second career has given me renewed purpose, and success now is measured by the difference I make every day.

Never forget that words and actions have the power to change how people see the world.

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Tiara Brown

Dr. Deborah Murdoch

Community and Events Director at Chick-fil-A Canton

Chief School Leadership and Operations Officer, CCSD.

My commitment to leadership and giving back to the Canton community is rooted in my faith and Christ’s example of servant leadership. As a mom of three, my first ministry is my family, where I strive to model faith in action. That same heart guides my roles at Liberty Elementary, on the Atlanta Flames semi-pro volleyball team, with FCA at Reinhardt University, and at New Life Church. Now, working along side change agents with Kevin William’s team at Chick-Fil-A and his newest project, New Ground Foundation in Hickory Flat, I seek to serve with excellence and to impact lives by being the hands and feet of Jesus in my community. I believe women are uniquely called to lead with compassion, and when we pour into others with intention, the impact stretches far beyond what we can see. My advice to the next generation is to lead where you are planted and trust that faithful service always bears fruit.

I grew up right here in Cherokee County and graduated from Cherokee High School. Years later, I returned as its principal, and that full circle moment shaped everything I believe about leadership. It taught me that investing in your community always comes back to you. Along the way, I have served as a science teacher, an assistant principal, and now as Chief School Leadership and Operations Officer for the Cherokee County School District. Every role has deepened my belief that education is the foundation of a thriving community.

Women play a powerful role in shaping Canton’s future because we lead with compassion and purpose. We build the connections that hold a community together. My advice to the next generation? Know your why. Be purposeful in every interaction. Show up for people consistently, and never underestimate the lasting impact of simply making someone feel seen.

CONTINUED >

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Jenn Geller Founding Attorney, Geller Law Growing up in Cobb County, I loved being part of that community. But as a wife, mother, and attorney in Cherokee County, I didn’t just want to be part of Canton; I wanted to help shape it alongside my incredibly talented, female-driven team. Success used to mean titles and wins.

Now it means alignment. If I’m doing meaningful work, providing for my team and family, and not burning out, that’s success. I’m not chasing validation anymore; I’m building something that feels right. When I take a vacation or show up for my kid’s school event, the firm keeps running.

That’s real success.

Bambi Winfrey Membership Director, Fairways of Canton As a mother balancing the restaurant, the bar, and life on the golf course, I have learned that showing up is everything. You don’t need a perfect plan. You need the willingness to work hard, stay flexible, and pour into the people around you. If I can keep a golf course full of men in line with a smile, I can lead change and make an impact in a business. Whether I am serving guests or raising a child, the hustle is the same, and the heart behind it never changes. Bet on yourself. Say yes even when it scares you.

Lead with kindness and consistency.

IF YOU SEE THIS so do your customers

REACH A RELEVANT CANTON AUDIENCE WITH OUR PRINT AND DIGITAL ADS JOIN THE LIFESTYLE - CONTACT US TODAY CityLifestyle.com/Cantonga

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

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MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / CA N TO N GA

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ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

BECKY HILLYARD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From Side Hustle to Style Empire The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY? A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

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I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE

Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection

Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND? A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING? A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strat-

website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

egy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED? A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust.

People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE? A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off.

After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them.

I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today.

Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

F E AT U R I N G B E C K Y H I L LYA R D The brand millions follow. Hear how it really star ted. Scan for the full conversation.

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / CA N TO N GA

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Inspiration for your best local life.

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STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

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Local content by local creators.

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MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / CA N TO N GA

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BANKING WITH PURPOSE How Coosa Valley Credit Union is empowering members, building wealth, and quietly redefining what a financial institution can mean for a community.

ARTICLE BY SAM PAYNE PHOTOGRAPHY BY COOSA VALLEY CREDIT UNION

FOR SOMEONE WHO HAS ALWAYS BANKED WITH A LARGE INSTITUTION, WHAT IS THE SINGLE MOST COMPELLING REASON TO TAKE A SECOND LOOK AT COOSA VALLEY CREDIT UNION? The answer is simple: here, you are not a customer. You are a member. That distinction changes everything. At the big banks, profit flows to shareholders on Wall Street.

At CVCU, any earnings come right back to you in the form of lower loan rates, higher savings returns, and fewer fees. We have been operating this way since 1954, when nine General Electric employees in Rome, Georgia, decided to pool their resources and look out for one another. That spirit has never left us. Today, we serve members across 13 counties in North Georgia, but the philosophy is exactly the same.

Neighbors helping neighbors.

CAR BUYING IS TOP OF MIND FOR A LOT OF PEOPLE RIGHT NOW. WHAT DOES CVCU OFFER THAT A DEALERSHIP FINANCING DESK SIMPLY CANNOT? Peace of mind and a rate that reflects your loyalty, not a commission. Right now, we are offering auto loan rates as low as 2.99% APR. When the average bank rate for a car loan is hovering between 5% and nearly 15%, that difference is not trivial.

Over a five-year loan, that spread can translate to hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dollars back in your pocket. We also encourage members to get pre-approved before they ever set foot in a dealership. When you walk in already knowing

your number, you negotiate from a position of confidence. That matters. We want everyone in our community to feel powerful in those conversations, not pressured.

HOME EQUITY IS A CONVERSATION THAT KEEPS COMING UP FOR A LOT OF OUR READERS RIGHT NOW. WHAT ROLE DOES CVCU PLAY THERE? A significant one. Your home is likely your most powerful financial asset, and a Home Equity Line of Credit allows you to access the wealth you have already built in a flexible, strategic way. CVCU offers HELOCs designed with real life in mind.

Whether you are renovating, consolidating, investing, or planning for a major milestone, your home's equity can work harder for you. Our local lending team will personally walk you through every option.

This is not a chatbot conversation. It is a real relationship. Our contributor and residential expert will walk you through the details of how a HELOC works in the pages ahead, so stay tuned.

CVCU HAS BEEN RECOGNIZED AS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK THREE YEARS RUNNING. WHY SHOULD THAT MATTER TO SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT WHERE TO BANK? Because culture is contagious. When 97% of our team says they love where they work, that energy does not stay behind the teller window. It walks straight across the counter to you. Happy people make exceptional partners. They listen

CONTINUED >

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F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | FI NANCE + LE GAL SE RVICE S

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / CA N TO N GA

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differently. They problem-solve with more creativity.

They are not counting down to the end of a shift. They are invested in the outcome of your conversation.

That is not something you can manufacture with a brand campaign. It is something you build over decades, through the values you hire for and the environment you protect. We are proud of that certification, not because it looks good on paper, but because it tells you something real about what to expect when you walk through our doors.

WHAT IS THIS VALLEY VIBEZ EVENT YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR MAY 14?

Coosa Valley Credit Union is partnering with City Lifestyle to host a fundraiser benefiting Cherokee County 911 Foundation, and we want the community to come out and celebrate the people who answer the call every single day. The event is on May 14th

“We will continue to be kind and look for ways to say yes.”

Katie Bowling, Business Development Officer from 4:30 to 6:00 PM right here at our Canton branch on Prominence Point Parkway. For every person who walks through the door, CVCU will donate $5 to Cherokee County E-911. We are talking prizes, food, drinks and more including Braves tickets including Braves tickets, and a whole lot of good energy for a cause that truly deserves it. Come ready to have fun and leave feeling good. Visit: MyCVCU.org

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F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | FI NANCE + LE GAL SE RVICE S

Upcoming Celebration of Queen May 4 at p.m. Outdoor Con ert

thefalany.com boxoffice@reinhardt.edu 770-720-9167

Gentlemen’s Quartet April at p.m.

Gary Lewis & The Playboys May at 3 & 7:30 p.m.

EVENTS

Falany Bluegrass Fest April 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.

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ARTICLE BY WOODSTOCK CITY LIFESTYLE

JEWELRY

as

ART

Brenda Smith transforms personal journeys into extraordinary jewelry, empowering women through artistry, meaning, and design There is a certain power in women who create—not just for beauty, but with purpose. In this year’s Women’s Issue, we celebrate those who are shaping community through vision, resilience, and leadership. For Woodstock-based jewelry designer Brenda Smith, that power is expressed through every piece she brings to life.

Her designs are more than adornment—they are deeply personal expressions of strength, story, and individuality. Each sculptural creation reflects a belief that jewelry should do more than complement a woman’s style; it should reflect who she is and what she’s overcome.

Brenda’s path into jewelry design began during a pivotal moment in her life, when creativity became both an outlet and a calling.

What started as a personal journey has grown into a celebrated career, with her work recognized on a national stage—including 2 placements within the Smithsonian’s permanent collection.

Yet, at its core, her work remains grounded in something far more intimate: connection.

Inside her Woodstock studio, Brenda approaches each design with intention—selecting stones for client's story, shaping metal into forms that feel bold and unexpected, and creating pieces that become part of a woman’s legacy, ART. In a world often driven by trends, her work stands apart as timeless, meaningful, and unapologetically personal.

For the women who wear her designs, it’s not just about what they put on—it’s about how they show up. And through her Jewelry as Art, Brenda Smith is helping women do exactly that: step into their story with confidence, beauty, and purpose. We sat down with her to find out more.

Your journey into jewelry design is deeply personal—what moment truly changed everything for you?

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I always knew I enjoyed working with my hands and creating beautiful forms from metals and gemstones. What began as a hobby gradually grew into something more—before long, all of my friends and relatives had already received jewelry gifts from me, so I started selling pieces to support my jewelry‑making habit. The moment I realized I truly had what it took to pursue jewelry as a profession came after my coursework at the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts in San Francisco. Alan Revere assured me that I had the potential, and through those classes, I recognized that my design training would naturally and successfully translate into jewelry design.

How would you describe the philosophy behind your designs and what makes a piece distinctly “Brenda Smith”?

The philosophy behind my designs begins with concept—something that was deeply ingrained in me during my college years as a design major. My pieces aren’t simply pleasing shapes or gemstones surrounded by other gemstones; they are rooted in meaning and inspiration. What makes a piece distinctly “Brenda Smith” is the balance of concept, form, and function. My work is dimensional and often incorporates movement. Each piece is a miniature sculpture, waiting for a home where wearable art is truly appreciated.

Many of your pieces feel like wearable art—what inspires your creative process when starting a new design?

My pieces are definitely wearable art, and inspiration comes from many sources. Sometimes it begins with an experience— like watching fireworks on the Fourth of July. With my head tilted back and eyes skyward, I turned to my husband and said, “I see earrings.” He looked at me, brows furrowed, and replied, “Really?” That moment became the beginning of my Celebration Collection. The original earrings were created

“I’m given guidelines to work within, such as designing a pearl necklace that must be in pearls for bridal wear and were designed to capture the burst of fireworks in motion. At other times, inspiration comes from a theme or commission, such as when the National League of American Pen Women asked me to design an award commemorating one of its founders, Vinny Ream, a sculptor from the 1800s. I created a contemporary cameo carved with Vinny’s likeness, inspired by the cameo she wore every day—a gift from a cardinal in Rome. Sometimes the gemstone itself tells the story. One example is my objective art piece Light My Fire, inspired by Oregon sunstone, whose colors graduate from clear to orange, yellow, red, gold, brown, and green. I carved a flame from the stone and set it into a fire pot nestled in petrified wood, underlit with a flickering light.

And sometimes inspiration comes from a challenge—working within parameters set by a patron who wants to symbolize or commemorate something meaningful to them.

In those cases, I’m given guidelines to work within, such as designing a pearl necklace that must be exactly eighteen inches long. Those creative constraints often lead to some of my most rewarding work.

Your work has been worn on red carpets and collected by the Smithsonian—how has that recognition shaped your perspective as an artist?

As an artist, I’m drawn to working with people who appreciate fine jewelry that goes beyond beauty and carries meaning. Creating pieces for clients who value that depth is incredibly rewarding. Their appreciation and validation are affirming, and that encouragement fuels my passion and keeps me moving forward as an artist.

You specialize in one-of-a-kind and custom pieces—what do you love most about creating something so personal for a client?

This is an easy question, because purchasing or commissioning jewelry is inherently an emotional experience. People buy fine jewelry to celebrate milestones, commemorate meaningful moments, or mark one of the most important days of their lives—such as a wedding. Knowing that my work becomes part of those deeply personal stories is incredibly humbling. I feel truly privileged to play a role in those celebrations, whatever form they may take.

exactly eighteen inches long.

Those creative constraints often lead to some of my most rewarding work.”

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Men’s jewelry lapel broach

For women investing in fine jewelry today, what should they be looking for beyond just beauty?

For women investing in fine jewelry today, there are certain essentials—much like the little black dress—that form the foundation of a well‑rounded collection.

These include pearl earrings and a necklace, diamond earrings, gold bracelets and earrings, and perhaps a simple pendant for everyday wear. Beyond those classics, women who are drawn to one‑of‑a‑kind pieces use jewelry as a form of self‑expression. They’re not just purchasing something beautiful; they’re building a personal legacy creating meaningful objects that carry memories and can be cherished and handed down to loved ones for generations.

Brenda Smiths's collection does far and wide with 2 exceptional pieces showcased at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, Ring and earrings go here brendasmithjewelry.com

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Smithsonian earrings

Brenda Smith with the Smithsonian earrings

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / CA N TO N GA

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events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

M AY 1 ST

First Friday: The Purple Madness (Prince Tribute) City Square | 6:00 PM The Purple Madness headlines the May edition of First Friday, Canton's beloved monthly block party. Downtown Canton comes alive as Main Street closes to traffic, creating a block-party atmosphere where locals and visitors gather to kick off the weekend. Expect food trucks, family-friendly fun, and extended shopping hours at downtown merchants. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy.

M AY 2 N D

Kentucky Derby Day — History Cherokee Fundraiser The Mill on Etowah | 4:30 PM History Cherokee invites the community to celebrate Southern tradition and support local history at its 23rd Annual Kentucky Derby Day at The Mill on Etowah. Guests will enjoy bourbon tastings, festive drinks, gourmet bites, a lively hat contest, a pony pull, and a silent auction. Tickets are $100 per person or $180 per couple. Don your finest Derby hat.

M AY 6T H

An Evening with Laurie Gilmore Books-A-Million, Canton | 6:30 PM An Evening with Laurie Gilmore takes place at Books-A-Million in Canton. This special author event invites readers to meet the beloved writer of the Gilmore Girls-inspired romance novels for a book signing and conversation. A perfect midweek outing for book lovers in the community — come early to browse the shelves and grab your signed copy.

M AY 8T H

The Foreigner — Cherokee Theatre Company The Historic Canton Theatre | 8:00 PM When shy Charlie Baker arrives at a Georgia lodge, his friend convinces the locals he's a foreigner who doesn't understand English. The townspeople openly share secrets and scandals in front of him, and Charlie unexpectedly becomes a hero, using his assumed ignorance to outsmart villains and help his new friends. A crowd-pleasing comedy you won't want to miss.

M AY 9 T H

Native American Festival Boling Park, Canton | 12:00 PM This annual event features Native American entertainment, arts and crafts, music, and food held during Mother's Day weekend at Boling Park in Canton. A long-standing Canton tradition, the festival celebrates indigenous culture through live demonstrations, handmade artisan goods, traditional dance performances, and authentic cuisine, a meaningful and family-friendly way to spend the weekend.

M AY 1 9 T H

Canton City Limits: Open Mic + Music & More Historic Canton Theatre | 7:00 PM Canton City Limits returns to the Theatre stage on May 19 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. This open mic night welcomes aspiring performers and seasoned musicians alike to step into the spotlight at the Historic Canton Theatre. Whether you're there to perform or simply to cheer on your neighbors, it's a night that captures Canton's creative spirit and grassroots energy.

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