East Cobb, GA May 2024

SEC OND ANNUAL WOMEN’S ISSUE

STYLE + BEAUTY

STYLE: SPRING FASHION + INTERIOR DESIGN

LIFE + CULTURE

WOMEN TO WATCH: PURPOSE + PASSION + GIVING BACK

Experience Unforgettable Weddings at Oaks on

River

Celebrating Women

I don’t know about you, but our team loves any opportu nity to recognize the women across our great county and in our lives who are making life more rich and beautiful. These business women, philanthropists, wives, mothers and daughters are some of the most influential and caring women across Georgia.

And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms. It’s not just the biological mothers, but the mother figures in our lives who have made an undeniable impact on us. It’s the family mem bers, teachers, friends, neighbors, mentors and volunteers doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives and the lives of others - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

We are happy to bring you this issue highlighting so many wonderful women sharing incredible journeys and who are following their passion. East Cobb City Lifestyle has grown since our launch, but never enough pages to share all these stories of women making a mark.

As we think about continued growth and prosperity, while it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to get-to-know and support women-owned businesses. We truly have the very best across Cobb-Marietta, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs.  One of our favorite parts of this work is connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to our cities' women.

They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both "steppin' out" and quietly go about their work. Their attention to detail and giving of their time and treasure is appreciated more than they will ever know.

I hope you know how much we appreciate you and how much you are appreciated by others.

From all of us at East Cobb City Lifestyle, wishing you an amazing May!

LISA THIBAULT, PUBLISHER @EASTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Lisa Thibault lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Catherine James catherine.james@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Karyn Slovin karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com, Heather Borlenghi citylifestyleheatherborlenghi@gmail.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Abby Ramsey abby.ramsey@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sue Collins, Cath James, Delia Jo Ramsey, Cathy Jones, Rei Kaiser | reikaiser@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Albright Photography, Aleks Kapett | Firelite Studios, Abby Ramsey

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

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

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Women Supporting Women! Chattahoochee Plantation Women's Club supports Drake House and PORCH Marietta 2: Chattahoochee Plantation Women's Club hosts evening of laughter and fun supporting Drake House, PORCH Marietta 3: East Cobb CL joins renowned, internationally recognized Elaine Sterling "Beauty Beyond the Mirror" book tour 4: Award-winning host, author, celebrity chef Jernard Wells celebrates with East Cobb CL, Audi-Marietta at GAFood+WineFestival 5: Mark & Rhonda Jacobson, Mazi & Cassie Mazloom celebrate, support community at Georgia Food+Wine Festival 6: East Cobb City Lifestyle and New York Butcher Shoppe Avenue Co-Host ECBA After Hours Networking 7: Chattahoochee Plantation Women's Club hosts annual Easter Egg Hunt at McFarlane Nature Park

Want to be seen in the magazine?

8: Joy Doss, Doss Law Firm LLC, named West Cobb Citizen of the Year 2023 9: East Cobb City Lifestyle and New York Butcher Shoppe Avenue Co-Host ECBA After Hours Networking

LUXURY DESIGN EXQUISITE FABRICS

Custom packages include installation SHOPPING EXPERIENCES: Virtual | In-Home | Showroom by Appt.

Becky B.

IF YOU THINK WINEMAKERS ARE OBSESSIVE ABOUT CARE

AND AGING,

We tend to our steaks with the passion of a winemaker, our master butcher monitors our steaks daily for 21 days in a temperature and humidity-controlled vault, then carves it by hand. Does our obsession pay off? You tell us.

Cobb Chamber of Commerce Hosts Marquee Monday

Hosted each month on the second business Monday, the Cobb Chamber of Commerce hosts Marquee Monday. A time when 300 leaders representing Cobb's business elite gather for lunch, networking and hear from top speakers on national, regional and community issues. In March, moderated by Jay Cunningham, panelists included Christa Pitts, Co-CEO and Founder of The Lumistella Company; Jesslyn Rollins, CEO of BioLyte; and Spencer Barkoff, Co-Founder and President of the fintech company Relay Payments.

770 730 8447

thecapitalgrille.com

Pond Expands to Cobb Commits $2M to Support Growth

Welcome Pond, a leading architecture, engineering, planning and construction management firm. Located in the Cumberland Community Improvement District, this expansion underscores Pond’s commitment to growth and fostering an optimal workplace environment for its 800+ employees. The office opened with 48 employees and can accommodate an additional 60 team members. Pond seeks to fill various roles in engineering, architecture, planning and construction management and commits to investing $2M over the next three years to support local market growth.

Readers Choose 2024 Best of Cobb! MUST

Ministries

Best Nonprofit!

Georgia Food + Wine Festival made way to celebrate Cobb County’s favorite businesses and service providers. Presented by Superior Plumbing, hundreds gathered to celebrate Cobb Life Magazine  and the  Marietta Daily Journal ’s readers-choice content 2024 Best of Cobb Showcase. MUST Ministries voted Cobb’s Best Nonprofit six years in a row! Find the full list of 2024 Best of Cobb contest winners in Cobb Life and  Marietta Daily Journal. Insperity, Inc. volunteers pictured supporting MUST!

more

the stories that unfold around them. A reminder that in the rush of our lives, there’s beauty in pausing to savor not just the food but also the company and the plate it’s served on. The latest release, Sisters In Pink, supports breast cancer awareness. Ten percent of proceeds go to G.A.A.B.C.

Circle for Children Continues to Have Monumental Impact on Community

The Circle for Children hosted its annual Gala achieving remarkable success in supporting beneficiaries of City of Refuge and the Linda Gross Memorial Scholarship fund. The fundraiser brought together sponsors, patrons and guests for a memorable evening of dinner, dancing and live and silent auction bidding, garnering overwhelming community support! Almost 100 years old, this member-driven, charitable organization is 100% volunteer and remains committed to enriching the lives of at-risk children in Georgia. www.circle4children.org

ARTICLE BY CATHY JONES

A HELPING HEART

Julie Altenbach's Heart for Professional, Personal and Community Growth

After parting ways with her hometown and college town in Tennessee, Julie Altenbach moved to Atlanta, where she watched it transform into the booming commercial hub it is today right before her eyes. This experience, coupled with her degree in sociology/psychology, led her to her career in real estate. Her passion is working alongside diverse people from all backgrounds and environments to help them find a new home.

Though she moved around the metro Atlanta area for a while before settling down, she landed permanently in East Cobb in 2000, where she rooted her business and community involvement efforts.

"As a former manager once said, 'Real estate is not just about selling homes; It is about making people happy,'" says Julie. "Throughout my career, I have adopted that motto and feel that has contributed to maintaining strong relationships and referral base." CONTINUED

Outside of work, Julie stays busy giving back to charities and organizations close to her heart and rallying around her close social circles.

Julie stays involved in school support groups and promotes environmental sustainability through her work with organizations like Hyde Farm, where she worked to save green spaces from overdevelopment, and the Pine Tree Garden Club, one of Georgia's oldest garden clubs. Perhaps the closest mission to her heart is her work with the Ronald McDonald House in Sandy Springs. She volunteers, supports fundraising events and pours her time and efforts into the perennial flower garden upkeep.

"My only grandchild, Henry, spent five months in Boston Children's Hospital with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, where he received some of the services of RMHC," says Julie. "This was my

key incentive to become involved locally, as this organization has stolen my heart."

When she's not empowering locals in new home purchases or fighting hard for local causes, Julie invests in her robust friend group and herself. She loves hosting soirees at her residence, enjoying her proximity to the Chattahoochee River and beautifying her backyard with blooms and birds. Her resiliency in all facets of life is an inspiration to all.

"I face the future with great optimism in my personal and professional life. I want to stay on top of learning, growing and enjoying along the way." - Julie Altenbach

juliesellsatlanta.com

BACK

BASICS to the

UNCOVER YOUR MOST FLAWLESS SELF AT HEYDAY

ARTICLE BY CATHY JONES

The rise of skincare on social media has products competing with professionals. Regimented skincare routines have all but taken the place of dermatologist, spa and esthetician appointments. Heyday Skincare in East Cobb aims to bring people back to the professionals. While you can find tons of products worth your while on the market today, the guidance of experienced skincare professionals like those at Heyday is still necessary to maximize results and achieve those glowing skin results we all want.

"Founded on the idea that facials are an essential part of a healthy skincare routine, Heyday is focused on making expert skincare accessible, approachable and habitual by taking the facial out of the spa and into local neighborhoods to help consumers discover their skin's potential," says Stacie Vaillancourt, owner of the East Cobb franchise.

According to Heyday, while skin types rarely change, the conditions of our skin do change, which is why their Skin Therapists (a.k.a estheticians) provide fully personalized services at every appointment designed to cater to your skin's current conditions. Each appointment starts with a skin analysis, where clients can discuss problem areas, recommendations and their daily skincare routine with an expert. From there, a Skin Therapist will develop a custom facial that will deliver the best results and start making recommendations for future services.

All of the products used in a Heyday facial are professional grade and developed by their in-house skincare team, making them more effective than anything on store shelves. Skin Therapists can elevate each facial experience with enhancements, including Gua Sha, LED Light Therapy, Professional Peels, NanoInfusion, Microdermabrasion and Microcurrent.

"We recommend coming in for a facial each month, as this is in sync with your skin cell's turnover cycle, which happens every 28 days," advises Stacie.

So, consider adding this simple step to your skincare regimen each month and transform your skin's potential. Book an appointment at heydayskincare.com or by

"It's designed to make your facial routine as easy as a lunch break!"

- Stacie Vaillancourt

calling the shop and schedule your first visit, where you'll complete a skin history form, meet your Skin Therapist, scrub down for an initial skin analysis and enjoy a luxurious face treatment. After just one visit, you'll be hooked.

"It's designed to make your facial routine as easy as a lunch break!" - Stacie Vaillancourt

Stacie Vaillancourt, owner of Heyday's East Cobb location.

A DESIGNER DUO

ARTICLE BY CATHY JONES

EMBRACE MOODY, MODERN AND MINDFUL SPACES WITH DUFFY SCOTT INTERIORS

Brought together by a local designers' network, Christy Scott Spearman and Kate Duffy forged a partnership and merged their two personal interior design ventures to create Duffy Scott Interiors. The Mariettabased interior design firm took off in 2022 and has been thriving ever since.

Kate's moody and masculine style embraces a blend of vintage and modern pieces, while Christy's passion for architecture and knack for mixing patterns, colors and textures add intrigue. Together, the ladies of Duffy Scott Interiors create timeless spaces utilizing natural elements, original artwork, vintage pieces and high-quality upholstery. They specialize in new builds, custom renovations and full-service furnishings.

They find their differences are often their biggest strength.

"We love the push and pull that each of our personal design aesthetics brings to our projects," said the ladies. "We feel this gives the spaces and homes we design an added sense of depth and style."

Their detailed design process entails six crucial steps that keep things on track, on budget and on schedule. Those considering hiring Duffy Scott Interiors start with a discovery meeting where the clients have the opportunity to share an overview of their project, and both parties can ask important questions to determine if they are the right designer for their needs. From there, if it feels like a good fit, a scope meeting will be scheduled to meet in the client's home.

After this meeting, Kate & Christy take the time to craft a detailed and tailored Scope Proposal and Design Fee for the client's project, and then the clients have the final say if they want to sign or not. For projects that proceed, they'll host a check-in to show the design concept and furniture or room layouts to ensure they are headed in the right direction after six to eight weeks."

At the final design presentation, they’ll introduce the full design along with every element. This is an in-person meeting where clients can see and touch available finishes and samples. From the Discovery Meeting to the Final Design Presentation, the process takes four to six months on average.

For any projects where construction is necessary, the next step will be beginning any construction/renovations. Once all construction is complete, the fun begins—installation. Here, they handle all of the details, from coordinating installers to perfectly placing every piece.

"We love to do this when our clients can be away, so there is a surprise element when they return home!" they say.

Their attention to detail, endless customization options and comprehensive project management skills are why Christy and Kate excel at what they do. They approach every design with a vetted list of trade resources, workrooms and artisans, allowing for exceptional, fully individualized results that are personal reflections of each valued client.

To start dreaming up your own fresh, functional space, contact the ladies of Duffy Scott Interiors at duffyscottinteriors.com or send an email to studio@duffyscottinteriors.com.

The Riverside Project

This full-house renovation completed by Duffy Scott Interiors transformed a 1960s Chatham-built brick ranch in Sandy Springs into a quaint and cozy family space. The homeowners were empty nesters with a vision to completely change everything, allowing Christy and Kate to fully explore the house’s creative potential. They raised the ceilings, opened the kitchen into the family room and added laundry, pantry, powder and mudrooms. They installed custom, wide-plank white oak floors throughout the house, clad the main living space with nickel-gap boards, installed fun guest bathroom wallpapers and designed an olive green kitchen. The result was a homey English cottage-style abode.

The Riverside Project Dining Nook.

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.

WARDROBE WONDERS

ARTICLE BY REI KAISER

"Steppin’ Out"

Celebrating Spring Styles

PUMP POWER

Sleek lines and towering heels exude confidence and sophistication. From vibrant hues to classic neutrals, heels elevate an ensemble whether paired with your favorite slacks for that special occasion or jeans for a chic luncheon look. Choose a pair with adjustable straps for an elegant touch while providing extra support for those longer events. You'll see heels crafted from a variety of materials from suede, metallics and even sustainable alternatives like vegan leather embellished with eye-catching buckles, studs and adorned studded straps!

SENSATIONAL SUNGLASSES

For a touch of glam, this season's oversized, sought-after sunglasses add both functionality and style to any outfit. Large frames provide the coverage you need to block out harmful sun rays, but also add a touch of glam.  From classic black to bold colors and unique shapes, oversized sunglasses effortlessly elevate your look!  Costs of these fabulous accessories can vary widely depending upon brand, materials, design and features.  On average, you can expect to find stylish sunglasses ranged from $50 to $500. Ultimately, the purchase will depend on your budget...but less is sometimes more!

BLAZER TRENCHCOAT BOOST

This spring, blazers and trenchcoats reign offering versatility and style whether oversized for a relaxed vibe or tailored for a polished look. They effortlessly elevate any outfit from brunches to boardrooms to chic evenings out. Jackets transition seamlessly from morning to night. This season's styles are made from a variety of lightweight fabrics including linen, cotton and blends of sustainable materials comfortable for warmer weather. Pastel shades of pink, blue and lavender add a fresh and delicate touch to this spring's ensembles complimenting the always classic black and navy blazer. Based on the quality of the fabric and designer label, you can expect prices to range from $50 to $300 or even more. Keep in mind, affordable options can be found at fast-fashion retailers or online marketplaces.

DRAMATIC SLEEVES DOMINATE

This spring, dramatic puff sleeves add flair and femininity to every look.  From billowy shapes to structured volume, sleeves are making a bold impact on blouses, tops and dresses. Designers are experimenting with various fabrics,  embellishments and prints to bring this look to life from lightweight chiffon to luxurious satin creating the ultimate trendsetter look for daytime outings or evening events.

HANDBAG HAVEN

Small handbags continue to make a big impression this spring. These petite accessories are both stylish and practical. They allow women to carry their essentials while making a bold fashion statement. This season bags come in vibrant colors from citrus yellows, bold oranges and key blue injecting energy and playfulness into spring outfits.  You will experience unconventional shapes like circles, triangles and geometric designs adorned with intricate details or minimalist designs, adding interest and individuality.

EXOTIC EARRINGS

Big hoops and dangling earrings are a standout accessory for this spring-summer season.  Bringing effortless glamour and movement to any outfit, expect to see vibrant colors and lightweight materials perfect for adding a playful touch to both daytime and evening looks. Whether you pair these gems with casual attire or elegant ensembles, they are sure to turn heads and elevate your style this season.

AN EVENING OF FUN, FELLOWSHIP AND PHILANTHROPY

Dancing Through the Decades for a Cause

ARTICLE BY CATHY JONES

"The exhibits spark organic conversations, and people are instantly sharing memories and stories about their experiences with items on display." - Elaine Pelaia

On March 23, the Chattahoochee Plantation Women's Club (CPWC) and the Computer Museum of America (CMoA) merged for an evening of dancing, mingling and giving back. The Chattahoochee Plantation Women's Club's annual gala, hosted at CMoA this year, enjoyed great success and concluded with a generous contribution to local charity PORCH Marietta.

The theme, "Dancing Through the Decades," fit perfectly in CMoA's spacious Gravity Ballroom, backdropped by informative exhibits featuring technology from the last 100 years. CPWC members and non-members alike were invited to dress in their finest retro, decades-inspired getup for the evening. Attendees sipped on bubbly cocktails, indulged in tasteful hors d'oeuvres and enjoyed a visit to the museum's extensive collection of digital artifacts long into the night.

The well-attended gala was a night to remember for all parties involved.

"The CPWC members and guests had a wonderful time at the Gala!" exclaimed co-president Susan Fulkerson, who recalled the evening as "both nostalgic and interesting" thanks to the artful exhibits.

During her time as co-president of the organization, Susan has seen many gatherings off without a hitch. From interest groups like garden club, hiking club and dinner club to activities like First Friday dinners, educational programs and volunteer opportunities, the club is built on the core principle of bringing people together. For Susan, it's the best part of the job.

"As president of the club, I check in with the leaders of each interest group frequently, meet new neighbors, meet business owners that sponsor some of our events and make sure that the club is running smoothly," says Susan.

The annual gala marked a continuation of the CPWC's legacy of fundraising for the less fortunate while enjoying the community connections forged by the women’s club.

Everyone agreed that the museum was the perfect venue for the retro-themed event.

"The backdrop of the exhibits spark organic conversations, and people are instantly sharing memories and stories about their experiences with items they

are seeing on display," says Elaine Pelaia, director of museum operations.

Wholly unique and relatively new to the Roswell and East Cobb area, CMoA tells the stories of the digital age, past and present, in a way that entices more than just tech experts. The museum's dynamic exhibits, enriching programs and educational opportunities make it a cherished hidden gem. From hands-on tales of space exploration to historically significant WWII tech such as an Enigma machine, to one of North Fulton's largest event spaces, everyone will find something of intrigue at the CMoA.

"The mission statement of CMoA is 'To preserve the stories and artifacts from the digital age while educating and inspiring visitors of all ages and backgrounds,' and we do that every day for visitors of every age," says Elaine.

PORCH Marietta shared in the evening's successes.

The women's club votes to support a local philanthropy each year. They always choose an organization close to home that benefits children; this year is no different. All proceeds from the gala went to benefit PORCH Marietta in their mission to fight hunger in the greater East Cobb community.

When the pandemic led to a growing rate of food insecurity, a group of neighbors teamed up to bring PORCH's mission to Marietta. The all-volunteer, grassroots organization relies on the generous donations of neighbors who leave food items on their front porches to be collected by volunteers and taken to food banks. All food and cash donations are funneled directly into local pantries.

"They give people the opportunity to make an immediate impact in their communities by providing an ongoing and stable supply of food to pantries and program participants," says Angela Boardman, charity chair of the CPWC.

Amidst the joyful dancing and memory making, a greater cause was at play—as there always is when the CPWC is involved. The glamorous gala celebrated the tremendous successes of the Chattahoochee Plantation Women's Club and the rest of East Cobb. It was a testament to the impact powerful women, generosity and community can have when united for a greater cause.

HOW IT STARTED:

Chattahoochee Plantation Women's Club

What started as a neighborhood garden club has transformed into a community betterment project with a group of 200 empowered women at the helm. Since 1970, the CPWC has connected women, given time and money for a cause, and advocated for a high quality of life in their local communities.

Computer Museum of America

The Computer Museum of America is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of computing and its impact on our society. Through interactive experiences, educational programs, and engaging events, CMoA provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of technology and its profound influence on our lives. For more information, visit ComputerMuseumOfAmerica.org.

A premier cabinet, counter top and flooring company, passionately transforming and creating perfect kitchens, bathrooms and offices. With decades of experience, our talented team helps ensure unparalleled quality, time efficiency and solid budget management. Commitment to detail, distinctive designs and best-in-class service has led Kitchen Designs to experience monumental growth and success creating opportunity for continued innovation. One thing that has remained constant is the resolve of company founders to never lose focus on what matters most - our clients.

Savvy Hospitality

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

““I believe in unreasonable hospitality.”

Micaela Binion is a marketing and brand strategist professional, number one salesperson for MercedesBenz 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. Steve and Majorie are wonderful people. Majorie trusts me to curate one of a kind deliveries with police escorts, camera crews and unique gifts,” says Micaela.

“The most memorable delivery in store was for Floyd Mayweather. He came to the store with six black trucks and bought his employee a G wagon off the showroom floor. He is super supportive and extremely gracious. He flew here just to support me. He is a valued friend.”

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

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. I am a true California girl and I love having the top down.

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 and 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

The Science of Natural Healing

Women to Watch

PURPOSE + PASSION + MAKING A MARK

ARTICLE BY CATHY JONES AND DELIA JO RAMSEY

We spoke to several leading ladies around Cobb and beyond to find out what the women of the Atlanta metro are up to lately — and the answer is, a lot! From running busy companies and nonprofits to raising families and connecting with their communities, these powerhouse individuals are raising the bar for us all, in a good way.

Hailey grew up playing nine holes with her dad as a Sunday tradition after church. The memories and skillset must have stuck with her because she has since led successful high school and college golf careers and landed a professional role at the local Marietta Country Club. In high school, Hailey won two regional championship titles; while in college, she was a three-time Academic All-American, First Team All-Conference member and received multiple All-Tournament Team awards.

"To be honest, a career in the golf industry was never really on the radar up until a few years ago," says Hailey.

After graduating from Oglethorpe University in 2019 with a B.S. in business management, Hailey landed her first role as a revenue specialist in an Atlanta-based recruiting firm, where she enjoyed her work but longed to get back on the green. Luckily, Mike Berning, director of instruction at Marietta Country Club, contacted Hailey about joining their coaching staff.

"Fast forward. I have been teaching golf here at MCC for a little over two years, and it has been the best decision I have ever made," said Hailey. "Mike was a huge part of my professional development."

After mastering a few coaching techniques and working on her self-confidence, Hailey now prides herself and her job on the incredible relationships she gets to build with members.

"I am truly fortunate to work with tremendous people of all ages, and I cherish relationships that result," says Hailey. "Watching my students make progress and get more enjoyment out of the game is what motivates me each and every day."

Hailey

"Watching my students make progress and get more enjoyment out of the game is what motivates me each and every day."

Willman Marietta Country Club Golf Pro

Elaine Sterling

The Elaine Sterling Institute

She has been working in the beauty industry for more than 25 years, yet you may not know the name Elaine Sterling. She is a living testament that beauty changes lives.

In 2008, Elaine founded The Elaine Sterling Institute (ESI) with six students, a credit card and a prayer. A single mom of two and cancer survivor, Elaine created what has become a globally recognized center of learning in the esthetics, beauty and wellness education industry. Now up to 500 students, Elaine has captured the past 16 years of struggle, wins, losses, knowledge and experience in her debut autobiography, Beauty Beyond the Mirror, a roadmap to success.

Without any formal business training or college education, Elaine relied upon her street smarts and ability to learn quickly to get the institute up and running. She realized the beauty industry, with its appeal to creative individuals who may not see a traditional four-year degree as their path, seemed ripe for growth.

“My philosophy was to tap into talent and help convert that skill into prosperity. Considering the beauty industry's global worth of more than $500 billion, there was a significant opportunity for my students,” says Elaine, “'I've seen students go from cleaning houses to owning them, from homelessness to securing a stable job and residence. These are the moments that affirm the impact of our work.”

“My philosophy was to tap into talent and help convert that skill into prosperity."

A licensed esthetician and esthetician instructor, Elaine holds international diplomas and is internationally trained and certified as a Beauty Therapist (LE, LEI, CIDESCO Diplomat, and ITEC). She is a noted speaker in the beauty industry and launched her award-winning corrective skincare line, Elaine Sterling Skincare, in 2008. Her student-run spa and salon offer state-of-theart services under the direction of licensed instructors at a fraction of the price of retail spas.

Elaine is a native of Port Elizabeth, South Africa and has lived in England, Australia, Taiwan, Detroit and Atlanta. Her involvement in the philanthropic community is vast. She supports charities such as The Eleos Charitable Foundation, Atlanta Community Food Bank, Lost ‘n Found Youth, Flora Ann’s House, Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance, The Drake House, Bethany Christian Services, My Sister’s House, Atlanta Needs Help and many more.

Erin Watkins

Indian Hills Country Club Tennis Pro

As most athlete's stories begin, Erin grew up spending her summers enrolled in tennis camp, where she discovered her deep love for the sport. 30 years later, she still plays regularly and has found a successful career in the industry. Her track record of outstanding awards, including the Columbus Indoor National Tournament's Sportsmanship Award and winning the Western Open, also a national tournament, set her apart as a tried and true professional.

"My dad was actually the person who said I should teach tennis. I never had any interest in teaching tennis. I was working as an assistant store manager at a big box company and my dad had been pushing me for about a year to get my teaching license," says Erin. "During my group test, I had an 'aha' moment, and I was shocked at how much I was enjoying myself. I called my dad on the phone later that day, and I couldn’t stop talking about how much fun I had being out on the court teaching."

Thankful for her dad's guidance, Erin began searching for tennis teaching jobs in the area, where she landed a position at Indian Hills Country Club.

"It’s cliche, but the members and the staff at Indian Hills are what I love most about my job," says Erin.

The transition from player to teacher is not easy, and Erin tackled her fair share of obstacles on her way to becoming the outstanding instructor she is today. She relied heavily on the other dedicated staff members at Indian Hills to guide her knowledge of running and planning drills, but her hard work paid off in the end.

"Once I got into a groove of things, I was able to develop my own teaching style, and it gave me the confidence that I didn’t have when I first started teaching," says Erin. "I never understood when people said not everyone that’s played a sport can teach it until I started teaching myself. That’s 1000% true!"

"It’s cliche, but the members and the staff at Indian Hills are what I love most about my job."

Camille Brown

Owner of LaVida Massage East Cobb

"As a female business owner, you have to maneuver through the negative perceptions others may have of you and their limited expectations of what you can offer because you are a woman."

In 2011, female-founded LaVida Massage hit East Cobb, bringing affordable and convenient massages to all residents. LaVida is on a mission to improve the lives of guests through exceptional treatments, products, education and customer care.

"Every body is different in what it needs, much like every guest's relaxation needs vary," says Camille. "At LaVida Massage, we customize each massage to the guest. This allows us to give a thorough, effective service to each and every guest who visits LaVida Massage East Cobb."

Their most popular services include a 60-minute massage and a 60-minute organic facial, both of which are quick enough to squeeze into a busy day while still allowing enough time for thorough and effective results. Camille invites anyone to stop in, get on the massage table and allow yourself to "clock out" for a short time while you indulge.

Though Camille is ever appreciative of the benefits of life as a solo female entrepreneur, her journey to where she is today has not been without obstacles.

"As a female business owner, you have to maneuver through the negative perceptions others may have of you and their limited expectations of what you can offer because you are a woman," she says.

However, the flexibility to be more present in her daughter's life and the support she's experienced from other local female entrepreneurs have made every challenge all the more worthwhile. At the end of the day, it's all about how LaVida Massage can serve the community to Camille.

"LaVida Massage centers are designed with your comfort in mind by creating a relaxing, neutral environment meant to convey the comfort of your own home. You will find our center calm, clean, comfortable and inviting."

Located in Nashville, Happenstance Distilling Co. is a 100% women-owned bourbon company that celebrates life’s moments that happen by chance. The brand was started out of a need for an approachable bourbon with a contemporary twist. The palate is blended to be a cabernet-style bourbon –full-bodied, smooth & naturally sweet with tasting notes of vanilla, hazelnut, toffee and caramel. Since almost 40% of bourbon drinkers are women, Happenstance seeks to include these women bourbon drinkers as part of its lifestyle & experience.

I started my career in the alcohol industry working in marketing for Anheuser-Busch. I respect the heritage and tradition of bourbons before me, but with Happenstance, I wanted to create a premium bourbon with a contemporary twist.

We’ve been grateful that the Nashville community has rallied behind the Happenstance brand. Some notable women and men in Country music have wanted to be a part of the Happenstance experience; We’ve even served Happenstance at weddings for Country artists HARDY and Caleigh Ryan, and Meghan Patrick and Mitchell Tenpenny!

Working in a male-dominated industry is an opportunity to do something differently than it’s always been done. Since women are such a large percentage of all bourbon drinkers, I think it's important to have more women innovating and leading in this industry. I hope Happenstance can be an example for many more women in bourbon to come!

Voted Cobb County’s Best Retirement & Assisted Living Communities

“We’re honored that Sterling Estates of East Cobb was Voted Best Assisted Living Community in My East Cobb and that Sterling Estates Communities have been recognized “Best of Cobb” for Retirement, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. We’ve been serving Seniors in greater Atlanta for over 25+ years now... We invite you to come and experience what sets us apart.” Marshall Gill, COO & Partner, Sterling Estates Senior Living Communities

5 Years in a Row!

“What I’ve learned is that all communities talk about wellness and socialization... but they don’t have the wellness center, green space, programming and staffing that Sterling Estates has. No one can match what Sterling provides for their residents period. My parents are thriving at Sterling Estates... bet yours will too.”

~ Susan S.