WOMEN WARRIORS + GIVING BACK THI RD ANNUAL
LIFE + CULTURE WOMEN TO WATCH PURPOSE + PASSION BREAKING BARRIERS
Time to Make New Memories
LONGER DAYS AND SUNNY STAYS
With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan your stay at Suite Beach Tybee. Exquisite new construction offers every amenity you can imagine! This ocean-front home features 5 bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths, open floor plan, state-of-the-art kitchen, premium appliances, private pool with spa, elevator, four screened in patios, outdoor kitchen complete with ice maker, grill, cook top, and bar. The direct beach access and gorgeous children’s bunk room make this home family-friendly while providing the solitude we all seek while on holiday. What are you waiting for! Book your stay now and enjoy unparalleled views. Just listed - special offers abound!
We’d love for you to visit! Scan the code to see more details. 877-214-7353 | @suitebeachtybee | info@tybeevacationrentals.com
Celebrating Women Leaders!
Each month, we're dedicated to celebrating the achievements, challenges and journeys of remarkable people. But this issue is particularly special - it's a tribute to those women who are redefining success, breaking boundaries, making challenging decisions and lifting others as they continue to be the very best at their craft.
As a father of daughters and someone who has had the privilege of working alongside strong, vision ary women throughout my career, I have witnessed firsthand the resilience, innovation, and leadership that women bring to every space they enter. Their impact is undeniable, shaping industries, transforming communities and inspiring future generations.
In this issue you'll find stories of women who took a leap of faith and are leading businesses with bold ideas, balancing personal growth with professional ambition and dedicating themselves to causes that strengthen their communities. Their journeys are diverse, but they share a common thread - a relentless drive to make a difference and do what they love.
It is our mission to spotlight these change makers, to share their stories and to foster a platform where their voices are amplified. Because when women succeed, we all do.
Thank you for being part of this conversation and for joining us in celebrating women who continue to push boundaries, set new standards for excellence and provide others the opportunity to learn and thrive.
Sincerely,
KEVIN KASETA, PUBLISHER
@EASTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Kevin Kaseta | kevin.kaseta@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Catherine James | catherine.james@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Sydney Kate Lewis | sydneykate.lewis@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rei Kaiser, Wendy Edwards, Sydney Kate Lewis, Michele Davis
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Albright Photography, Nikola Kratky
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Superior Plumbing's Director of Marketing Tina Myers and team celebrate, Georgia Food + Wine Festival 2: "Your Morning Drive" Logan Lewis, On Cam Ready Jamie Maglietta, Southern Heritage Homes Justine Derby 3: Jason Miller, Ryan Benefield, Founder "Your Morning Drive" podcast Logan Lewis, Jeff Chassner celebrate success! 4: Members of the Junior League Cobb-Marietta volunteer at the Serve Up Some Good Event 5: Tara Heaton’s Best-Selling Memoir "Life Minutes" book launch; Resurrecting Love and Laughter Amidst Unrelenting Heartache 6: Circle for Children's Cindy Formica, Polly Hogue, Pat Ifaldano, Sterling Lankin and Mary Beth Wagner 7: Community gathers at Circle for Children event hosted at Your 3rd Spot supporting charitable initiatives
May is Healthy Vision Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of comprehensive eye care for all ages.
Eye health is essential to overall well-being, so take charge of your eye health - and encourage loved ones to do the same!
• Schedule your annual comprehensive eye exam: To detect vision problems and eye diseases early, even before symptoms appear.
• Wear protective sunwear: To reduce exposure to harmful UV rays and risks for sightthreatening conditions.
• Practice the 20-20-20 rule: For every 20 minutes of screen time, look 20 feet away, for 20 seconds.
HEALTHY VISION AT EVERY STAGE OF LIFE
Children
Schedule annual eye exams to detect myopia (nearsightedness), amblyopia (lazy eye), and other eye health issues. Limit screen time and encourage outdoor play and proper lighting for reading.
Adults
Continue with annual comprehensive eye exams, follow the 20-20-20 Rule and choose the right eyewear for vision solutions at home, at work, on the road, or on the move.
Older Adults
Choose annual assessments to detect presbyopia, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Be aware of changes in vision at night or when reading small print. Maintain a healthy diet to support eye health.
Mornings Coffee & Tea Brewing Something Special!
Kris Evans launched Great Mornings Coffee & Tea in 2015 while living in Hawaii with her husand, who was stationed at Schofield Barracks on Oahu. Like many military spouses, she adapted her career path to her new environment. Operations moved from Hawaii to Georgia and at the beginning of 2019, Great Mornings Coffee & Tea relaunched. The company has expanded its selection of gourmet coffees and unique tea blends and earned 2025 Best of Cobb! greatmorningscoffeeandtea.com.
"Life
Minutes"
Best-Selling Memoir Story of Resurrecting Love and Laughter
Life Minutes captures the brutal reality of a mother-turned-warrior, driven by a primal need to restore her daughter’s health. “The flame that I discovered on a diving board at nine years old fuels me today,” she writes. “I will stop at nothing.” Tara had three healthy children, loving husband, and rewarding career. Without warning, everything changed when her middle daughter, Caroline, was struck by a virus that led to severe encephalitis, Connect with Tara enpointeglobal.com/lifeminutes.
"Your
Morning Drive" Podcast Celebrates 7 Years!
Founder of Your Morning Drive, Logan Lewis celebrates continued growth. He’s spent seven years diving into the stories, passions and perspectives of extraordinary individuals. Held at Fireworks Coworking, where the podcast studio is located, previous podcast guests, friends and family gathered to reflect on the amazing stories previously told and those yet to come. Logan was thankful to Nagel’s Bagels, GoodDays Classic Cocktails, Fireworks Coworking & other partners for their support of the event.
Luxury Home Designer and Retailer Comes to Marietta
Boll & Branch - a leading designer and retailer of luxury home textiles - opened at Avenue East Cobb early this year. Founded by Scott and Missy Tannen, the company has become one of the largest luxury home brands ever, and counts millions of Americans, including U.S. Presidents and celebrities, as its customers. Products are expertly crafted from the finest sustainable materials and are 100% traceable guaranteeing a softer, more luxurious product. bollandbranch.com | 470-876-9911
LUXURY DESIGN EXQUISITE FABRICS
Custom
Your North Georgia Real Estate Team
417 Riverwood Road | Ellijay
5 Bedroom | 4 Bathroom | 1 Half Bathrooms
Offered at $949,500
Perched above the scenic Cartecay River, this beautifully renovated 5-bed, 4.5-bath chalet offers year-round river and mountain views, blending modern luxury with natural serenity. Highlights include an open-concept layout with hardwood floors, a two-story fireplace, sunroom, finished terrace level with media room and office, plus multiple decks leading to a private swim dock. With a greenhouse, firepit, two oversized garages, a 740 sq ft workshop, and high-speed internet, this home is a perfect full-time residence or mountain getaway.
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
EXCEPTIONAL, COMPASSIONATE AND AFFORDABLE PET CARE FOR OUR FURRY FRIENDS
PROVIDENCE
VETERINARY CLINIC
Running a veterinarian practice while seeing patients, keeping up with technology and continuing education and possessing the business skills for success takes a special kind of person. It requires a rare combination of compassion, ambition, and the willingness to learn skills that are seemingly unrelated.
Yet, when Taylour Welborn graduated from the Auburn University College of
impact on the community, which inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a difference. Combining my love for animals and people, I became a veterinarian to provide compassionate care," Dr. Welborn states.
However, her commitment to passions that are important to her doesn’t stop here. Dr. Welborn is a fervent believer in giving women the
“WHAT SETS PROVIDENCE APART IS ITS COMMITMENT TO HIGH-QUALITY, COMPASSIONATE
TREATMENT AT FAIR PRICES...”
Veterinary Medicine in 2017, she knew her talents didn’t end with caring for animals. Dr. Welborn relays, “Wanting to ensure pets and their owners received the best treatment at a fair price, I took the next step of becoming a business owner, giving me the ability to control patient care and prioritize quality over profit”. As a result, Dr. Welborn opened Providence Veterinary Clinic in 2021, located in Marietta.
Inspiration can come from many sources, but Dr. Welborn gives credit to her father who was an esteemed Atlanta area neurosurgeon where she had a front seat in watching him change lives. “Growing up, I watched my father, a neurosurgeon, make a meaningful
best chance to succeed in their chosen interests. This sentiment shines through with a practice that is run almost entirely by women. To further the practice’s support of female endeavors, she also enjoys working with and helping guide the next generation of veterinary professionals.
Dr. Welborn says, “As a woman business owner in the veterinary field, I am committed to championing and empowering other women in the industry. At Providence Veterinary Clinic, we provide internships for students aspiring to become veterinarians, giving them the hands-on experience and hours they need to pursue their dreams of vet school”.
CONTINUED >
“
I BECAME A VETERINARIAN TO PROVIDE COMPASSIONATE CARE.”
Dr. Welborn hopes to encourage her future colleagues to approach patient care with the best services for reasonable pricing. With this in mind, Providence Veterinary Clinic takes pride in offering services that you may not find at every clinic.
Wellness exams, digital imaging, surgery, dentistry, in-house lab services, hospitalization, microchipping, travel certificates, boarding, grooming, pet breeding, and end-of-life care are just some of the services you will find on the menu. Dr. Welborn explains, “What sets Providence apart is its commitment to high-quality, compassionate treatment at fair prices, ensuring both pets and their owners receive the best care. With advanced diagnostics, personalized attention, and a focus on patient well-being, the clinic prioritizes excellence in veterinary medicine while maintaining a welcoming and supportive environment”.
For more information on their services and to book an appointment, visit providenceveterinary.com
Voted Cobb County’s Best Assisted Living & Retirement Communities 5 Years in a Row!
“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
“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.
Come See Why So Many Are Choosing To Call Sterling Estates Home
Local Owners and Managers | Unparalleled Wellness & Activities Centers & Programs Award-Winning Food and Spacious Dining |Cottages and Apartments in Neighborhood Settings Certified Parkinson’s Disease Programs | Longevity of Staff
INDEPENDENT LIVING, ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE
East Cobb: 678-944-7431 (Ask for Shelly) | West Cobb: 470-228-4424 (Ask for Sherry or Lacey)
BREAKING BARRIERS
Building Leaders
Cobb County Executive Women continue to inspire, educate, support, and foster a sense of community
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWS
The Cobb Executive Women (CEW) is a pillar of leadership development within the Cobb Chamber. Established in 1984 by Dr. Betty Siegel, first female president of Kennesaw State University, CEW was founded with a vision to create opportunities for women in business. It blazed a trail by providing a space for women to gather, share knowledge and resources, and foster community engagement, helping women contribute to the broader Cobb County community through service and leadership. This vision continues to shape and support women’s leadership today, inspiring them to achieve success personally, professionally, and within their communities.
From networking and informative luncheons, to social experiences, and community service opportunities, CEW began with only 25 members and has grown to include over 100. The group is focused on meeting women where they are and introducing new ways to connect. “I have been continuously inspired, educated, and supported, and I have developed lifelong relationships with women of excellence,” says long-standing member Carla Jackson.
With the intent to engage with the business community, CEW actively engages by hosting events at various business locations and welcoming sponsorships from companies looking to share their brand stories with members. However, the most impactful work CEW does in this space is fostering connections among the women behind these businesses. People prefer to do business with those they know and trust, and Cobb Executive Women cultivates a supportive environment where meaningful relationships are built. These connections often lead to future collaborations and professional opportunities.
Previously, the group honored local leaders - both men and women - who supported the advancement of female executives through the Glass Ceiling Award. In 2014, this award was reimagined and renamed the Woman of Distinction Award to exclusively recognize exceptional women leaders. Candidates for the award demonstrate leadership through their professional endeavors, community involvement, and commitment to social responsibility. Edith Boy, CEW Chairwoman shares, "Women in Cobb have proven to have vital impact in the success of our county. Often, we work and contribute our time and talents in the silo of our own city or community. With the Chamber's broad reach, CEW provides an outlet for us to develop relationships with other female executives and professionals throughout Cobb and the Metro Atlanta region. Our outreach events have given members the opportunity to see first-hand the needs and impact of several non-profits in our region."
CEW membership is open to Cobb Chamber members who hold executive leadership roles in their organizations. Exceptional candidates have a strong record of community involvement. Those interested in joining CEW and connecting with other female leaders dedicated to personal and community growth are invited to attend an event as a guest to learn more. cobbchamber.org
A DELICIOUS SANGRIA RECIPE BY HOME BAR NETWORK TO BRIGHTEN UP MOTHER'S DAY
Rosé All Day
There’s something so special about gathering around the table with the people you love—especially when there’s a beautiful, refreshing drink to share. This rosé sangria is light, vibrant, and bursting with freshness. Sweet strawberries, tart kiwi, and juicy blackberries mingle with fragrant basil and a splash of Lillet Rosé, creating the perfect balance of fruit, citrus, and floral notes. Letting everything chill together in the fridge allows the flavors to meld, making each sip even more delicious.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 bottles Rosé
• 6 oz Strawberries
• 6 oz Blackberries
• 6 oz Kiwi Wheels
• 4-5 Basil Sprigs
• 8 oz Lillet Rosé
• 8 oz Lemon Juice
• 24 oz Soda Water
• 8 oz Simple Syrup
At Home Bar Network, we believe great cocktails should be fresh, handcrafted, and easy to enjoy—this sangria is no exception. The best part? You can make it ahead, so when it’s time to celebrate, all you have to do is pour over ice, top with a little sparkling water, and garnish with fresh fruit and basil. Whether you’re hosting a Mother’s Day brunch or chilling on the patio, this sangria is light, refreshing, and effortlessly elegant—just like Mom. Cheers!
DIRECTIONS
Pour two bottles of rosé into a large pitcher or drink vessel. Add the sliced strawberries, kiwi wheels, blackberries, and basil sprigs. Stir in 8 oz of Lillet Rosé, 8 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 8 oz of simple syrup (made with equal parts white sugar and filtered water, heated until sugar dissolves and cool). Cover and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, pour over ice into wine glasses and top with your favorite sparkling water. Garnish with fresh basil, blackberries, and kiwi wheels.
“At Home Bar Network, we believe great cocktails should be fresh, handcrafted, and easy to enjoy!”
Women-owned businesses to watch
FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS DRIVE SUCCESS AND INNOVATION LOCALLY AND BEYOND
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
Jennifer Rust Botanicals
Can a green thumb be genetic? If you ask Jennifer Rust, she would say it is in her DNA, thanks to her mother and father and their passion for all things green. “My father loved all the flowers in spring and the smell of a gardenia takes me straight back to my mother”, says Ms. Rust.
Perhaps it is this sentiment that ignited her excitement after volunteering to build an outdoor kitchen garden at Mt. Bethel Elementary. She always knew she was destined to own a business that would celebrate her talents and honor the simple beauty of life. A career that brought personal fulfillment while also serving community. Switching from a life of corporate travel and powerpoint presentations to opening Jennifer Rust Botanicals wasn’t a decision made lightly, but she knew this was her destiny.
Jennifer Rust Botanicals creates Instagramworthy front porches and inviting patios, gorgeous naturally accented green interiors and inviting commercial spaces through contained flowers, plants and grasses. Their Seasonal Subscription Service is geared towards people too busy to plant their own containers or simply don’t know where to start in selecting plants that will thrive each season.
“With our service clients always have something
beautiful at the front door because four times a year, at the start of each season, we door-dropdeliver a fresh new planter insert they simply drop in their containers they purchased from us or use their own container (but its important for clients to measure their container and select the right size on our website). The client simply waters their planter insert according to our seasonal instructions. Our inserts are also fully biodegradable and compostable,” Ms. Rust states.
Ms. Rust and her team also enjoy helping commercial clients create welcoming, low maintenance spaces using a variety of easy care mediums. “Businesses also want an inviting space and fresh plants outside and inside their establishment help them do that. However, we are increasingly adding in faux and dried plant designs as commercial clients grapple with ongoing maintenance costs”, states Ms. Rust.
“My father loved all the flowers in spring and the smell of a gardenia takes me straight back to my mother”
With residential and commercial services, the team at Jennifer Rust Botanicals brings artistry, creativity and talent from a diverse group of women to make your space radiant and inviting. Ms. Rust states, “I am always amazed how the business has grown with a team of local women that all bring such unique and valuable talents. And we have a saying, ‘only plant what you would want your best friend to have’.”
The Auto Accident Attorneys Group
theaaagroup.com
Becoming a commercial real estate and corporate finance attorney was what Holly Kull had worked for all her life, but seemed to leave her unfulfilled. “The work was impressive on paper, but it felt like I was just another cog in the machine…So, I took a leap. I “retired” from law and gave myself permission to figure out what was next,” says Ms. Kull. When she got the chance to work with her brother and sister-in-law, she jumped at the chance.
As Chief Marketing Officer, Ms. Kull brings not only her exceptional legal expertise to The Auto Accident Attorneys Group, but also a creative edge cultivated through her background in marketing and public relations prior to law school. Ms. Kull reveals, “What started as a conversation about helping to grow the business turned into a fulltime marketing role where I now get to use both sides of my brain—the legal side and the creative side. The best part is building something meaningful with my family, while actually helping people when they need it most.”
The Auto Accident Attorneys Group has decades of experience and expertise helping hundreds of families pick up the pieces after tragedy strikes. Having recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for injured clients, it is evident their number one goal is taking care of people. The Auto Accident Attorney Group’s purpose is to ensure every client feels taken care of during a tumultuous time. Ms. Kull states, “The most important thing is making
people feel like they’re not just another case file…Our job is to earn their trust and let them breathe a little easier knowing someone is in their corner…our slogan, ”We take care of you” means just that - doing the hard work behind the scenes so our clients can focus on healing.”
Supporting and engaging with community is top priority, especially when it comes to women’s causes, which are deeply important to Ms. Kull and shows through the firm’s actions. “Most recently, I launched the Women’s Empowerment Experience or WEE for short. I host a monthly brunch series in my home where women gather to connect, learn, and share knowledge. Each month a different speaker is featured overing topics like navigating auto insurance, women’s health or entrepreneurship. The firm sponsors the series so there is no cost to attendees, which has been really special, relays Ms. Kull.
When Ms. Ha arrived in the U.S. from Vietnam in 1984, she, like many before her, carried heartfelt dreams of success and a relentless imagination to make them a reality. So, when she married her husband, Henrry Ha, she found they shared the same, deep desire to become the embodiment of achievement.
After studying at a school of cosmetology in Georgia, Ms. Ha earned her license allowing her to pursue her dream. Together, the Ha’s searched for the perfect location to open their first salon. East Cobb - Marietta was the perfect place to launch a beauty career, so the salon customized a space to call its own.
After fifteen years of success, they needed to expand into a larger space just a few doors down. Together, they pain-stakingly selected everything for the salon
with the utmost of luxury in mind. “I wanted to bring something special to the women of East Cobb. I wanted them to have a luxurious time surrounded by natural elements that provide an elegant experience”, says Ms. Ha.
In the thirty years that Nail Eagle Luxury Nail Salon and Spa has been serving Marietta and the East Cobb area, Ms. Ha and her team have honed in on what it is to bring customer delight to all that walk through the door. Ms. Ha exclaims, “We take no shortcuts. I encourage teamwork, taking the time to understand the client’s needs and striving to be the absolute best. The salon industry is very competitive so we aim to give clients a fair price for exceptional service”.
Ms. Ha and her team also enjoy working with the community and schools in their fundraising initiatives and love supporting the local high schools in their efforts. As an East Cobb fixture and trusted business owner, Nail Eagle Luxury Nail Salon and Spa have been awarded the coveted “Best in East Cobb” for the last three years, allowing Ms. Ha to realize the goal she had set so long ago.
Salon Arcaro
salonarcaro.com
“These women business leaders serve clients across Atlanta, embodying success, passion for their craft, and a deep commitment to supporting community.”
Finding an exceptional salon with skilled stylists that listen to your needs, deliver outstanding results, and prioritize flexibility for your schedule can be challenging. Many salons have some of these qualities, but finding one that consistently checks every box is harder than you think.
Casey London Keeter understands the value of these qualities and has always strived to provide her clients at Salon CLK the highest level of creativity, expertise and customer service. Combining her strong business acumen with a team of master talent, she seized the opportunity to partner with Adam Awtrey and Christian Markovich, co-owners of the original Salon Arcaro. With decades of industry-leading experience, Mr. Awtrey and Mr. Markovich have been friends since 1987, honing their award-winning skills into a formidable team.
With Mr. Awtrey’s 40 years in the industry and his connections to top educators and leading salon brands, the merger had all the right ingredients for success. Ms. Keeter recollects, “Adam and I have known each other for years, but over the past four years, we became even closer friends. We quickly realized our individual strengths complemented each other and could drive the growth and the highest level of customer service for our salons. With my strong customer service and management skills combined with Adam and Christian’s expertise behind the chair, we knew we had to collaborate on something special”. Salon CLK is now Salon Arcaro.
The new Salon Arcaro seamlessly blends highly trained artisans, toptier stylists and expert client relations. Ms. Keeter recognizes, “This merger unites the best of both salons, allowing for greater flexibility, an expanded range of services, and an unmatched level of artistry.”
Combined with Mr. Awtrey’s top-ranked presence across all social media platforms - recognized by Creative Loafing - and his designation as the number one expert in color corrections since 1992, this collaboration brings an even greater level of prestige and credibility to the salon.
Salon Arcaro proudly offers a curated selection of top-tier product lines, including Moroccan oil, Oribe, Redken and Goldwell Color. The salon not only provides these premium products, but also educates clients on how to use them effectively for best results.
From simple haircuts and blow-outs to complex Balayage color, keratin treatments and hair extensions, Salon Arcaro has an unrivaled menu of services for every need you desire to highlight the existing beauty that shines forth.
Grieving Like a Warrior
Carving space to grieve because even superheroes need to retreat to their bat caves.
Walking toward the covered bridge, I watch the other Warrior Moms hug and laugh, something they do easily. At the photoshoot for our new book Grieve Like a Mother, Survive Like a Warrior, I feel excitement and pride. I know how difficult these chapters were to write. Black letters on a white page make our reality more stark: our children died. Yet, we don turquoise capes this photoshoot day, holding hands, laughing at the silliness but gaining strength from one another.
I remember walking into my first Warrior Moms’ meeting and thinking I was in the wrong place. It sounded like a fun dinner party. Could this be right? I peeked in, and a mom greeted me with a giant hug and said, “You must be Michele. We hate that you’re here but are glad you found us.” I knew these were my people. Meeting monthly, the Warrior Moms of North Atlanta have potluck dinners, share stories, and then end the evening circling up to talk about our children who died. Tears and sometimes deep sobs—none of us have to say a word if we don’t want to. It’s a club no one wants to join, and the pain is real.
We are grateful to Christi Howard and Christine McHenry, who met with Cathy Semeria and other grieving moms for dinner in December 2017. Christine posted a picture on Facebook, and many moms reached out to
ARTICLE BY MICHELE DAVIS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALBRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY
ask when they’d meet next. Christi created a Facebook group, chose the next date, and named it Warrior Moms. Our gratitude for them is endless as these women intentionally share grief and find joy.
At one meeting, Christine suggested we write a book, and many agreed. We had a weekend retreat, writing drafts to share at the firepit, and lighting paper lanterns to float across the lake, symbolizing the loss of a child. We sang Coldplay’s Fix You, crying when we hit the lyrics, “Lights will guide you home, ignite your bones, and I will try to fix you.” We shared our chapters, and the book journey began.
As an English teacher, I offered to read the chapters and figure out the book’s format. Most moms didn’t consider themselves writers and felt vulnerable. I was honored to shape the pages, knowing the tears that dropped while writing them. I created mini-workshops
and a writing retreat to help capture their children’s spirits, allowing readers to see them in action and bring strategies to life with narratives. It was hard work. Watching the cursor blink, trying not to break apart, felt cruel at times.
I knew publishing a book required a social media presence. Podcasts were one avenue, so I asked Santa for podcast equipment and let the Warrior Moms know. Two months passed with no takers. Another Warrior Mom, Amy Durham, texted, “Let’s do this. I’m
in!” The next week, we sat in the Alpharetta library with microphones and a sound mixer. It was thrilling and terrifying, but we felt pulled to make it happen. In just a year, we had over 15,000 downloads in 55 countries. The interest humbles us.
Looking back at our photos from that March day, some might wonder why superheroes are on our book cover. Surviving the loss of a child is a pain words cannot express. We crawl into our beds, scream, and cry behind closed doors. Yet we also get up to be moms to our surviving children, and wives to grieving husbands, while maintaining jobs, friendships, bills, and housekeeping. None of these tasks are superhuman, but paired with sorrow, they sure feel that way.
We wanted our book cover to show the fierceness of a grieving mom and the need for each other, a softness that gives us superhuman empathy. I see Rae Ann Gruver speak about hazing risks for her Max. Jenny Stanley fights for car safety for children; Sydney CONTINUED >
is proud. Cathy Semeria mentors college students, being the spark in the dark like her Tini. Robyn Willis fights for fire safety, keeping Shaun and Morgan’s memory alive. Dele Rech’s foundation for Daniel reminds us to get outdoors and do good for others. Lisa Raber and Amy Durham raise funds for addiction recovery in honor of Keaton and Alec. Brandi Couey keeps Cole’s memory alive with fundraisers, Emily Simmons honors Darren online, and Joan Wasser supports equine projects for her daughter Alex. Christi Howard speaks about the importance of organ donation, honoring Ashley, and Christine McHenry donates scholarships in honor of their athlete Jamie. I host a pick-up lacrosse game, honoring Carter. They give back to their communities who helped them breathe again.
We wrote the book we wished we had in those early months and years. It tells the truth about the terrible pain and dark days, but more importantly, about strategies we use to seek sunshine, go on hikes in the rain, and have deep laughter with friends and family. It doesn’t follow the five stages of grief and doesn’t sugarcoat the journey. We give firsthand accounts of how we live in the ‘and’ of sorrow and joy, anger and happiness. Sometimes, we force ourselves to get out of bed for a child’s soccer game, but we also give ourselves the grace to “feel the feels,” as my co-host Amy says. We may need a full day to sleep after an incredible vacation because while we had fun, the wishing and missing we pushed down is exhausting. So, we carve space to grieve because even superheroes need to retreat to their bat cave.
To learn more about the Warrior Moms, their podcast, and the upcoming book, go to: https://www.warriormoms.me/
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZD1JXXF
DIY DAY
INSPIRATION FOR A MOTHER/ DAUGHTER DIY DAY
WITH MOM
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
An afternoon spent together is priceless with today’s busy schedules. Instead of going out, staying in can provide quaint, quiet one-on-one time for a mother and daughter (or multiple daughters). Finding time on calendars is the hard part, and filling that time is all fun from there. Here are a few favorite ideas for inspiration that may spark excitement for planning those special times together.
01 Charm Necklaces
Custom DIY charm necklaces and bracelets are trending. Gather a theme idea: birthstones, family initials, travels or even favorite hobbies, and procure charms from your local craft store or online shop. Selecting charms for each other also could be a fun way to bring delight to the crafting occasion. Necklaces and bracelets can be made for each other, or as future gifts for upcoming occasions such as a family wedding, a birthday milestone or an anniversary.
03 Meal Prep
Text conversations around kitchen tips or ingredient procurement seem endless. Spend some time together in the kitchen preparing favorite family recipes, sharing Mom’s best tips and tricks. Choosing freezer-friendly meals is a great way to walk away with meals for upcoming busy days. There’s nothing like Mom’s recipes!
Storytelling makes for the best memories. Structure memory recall by filming or journaling interview-style question-and-answer sessions, cataloging information for future generations. Videos and notes with detailed family adventures are priceless, and we all always wish we had more of them.
Journaling
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
SPREAD SPECTACULAR
TRANSFORM YOUR MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION INTO AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE WITH A STUNNING CHARCUTERIE BOARD
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 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.
FINDING A TOUCH OF GLAM IN EVERYDAY DESIGN
ARTICLE BY ALLISON GIBESON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
HGTV star shares her secrets to make a home look both beautiful and livable.
Tamara Day, star of HGTV’s Bargain Mansions, describes her style as “laid-back luxe.”
“I am a mom of four, and I like pretty, shiny things,” Tamara says. “The two don’t always mix well. I design with lifestyle and family in mind but with that touch of glam.”
This mixture of practicality and flare can be accomplished throughout the home on a budget, Tamara says.
When it comes to the kitchen, she says replacing the backsplash is one of the most cost-effective ways to refresh the room. Additionally, she says paint is the most inexpensive option to update cabinets, and there is a de-glosser on the market that will reduce the labor involved by helping paint adhere to cabinets.
“You can get a whole new kitchen with some fresh paint,” Tamara says.
In the bathroom, Tamara suggests putting up new light fixtures and wallpaper for a fresh look. She suggests using wallpaper on just one wall to create contrast.
“Wallpaper transforms everything and puts in a hominess factor,” Tamara says.
To give a new feel to the living room, Tamara suggests using decorative pillows as well as displaying design books and layering with a candle or other interesting object to create a sentimental focal point. She also suggests investing in good, quality sofas
and rugs because less expensive options will not typically withstand the amount of wear and tear they receive from a family.
Overall, Tamara says there is a balance between mixing expensive and inexpensive items and materials around the home, all without having it looking cluttered. She says every space needs something that is thrifted.
Tamara finds many people enjoy elements of different types of styles and have a hard time defining their personal style. To help narrow down to a preferred look, she suggests taking a hundred room images and sorting them into piles of likes and dislikes. She says when someone completes this exercise, they typically find a theme to their preferences.
MAKING COLOR, TEXTURE AND PATTERN STAND OUT
Tamara has a natural eye for using great colors and textures in design. What is her approach to making a room look great?
HERE ARE TAMARA’S TOP TIPS:
Find a base color with pops of other colors.
“Every room needs a touch of black and a pop of color,” Tamara says. “The black will anchor it, but the color will give it life.”
If the home is urban, she suggests more bold pops. If it is a traditional home, use a mixture of colors. Additionally, she suggests using one basic color throughout a home with pops of other colors as opposed to having a different color in each room.
Consider wallpaper.
“Wallpaper can be scary for a lot of people, but there are so may wallpapers out there that are removable,” Tamara says.
Tamara says wallpaper adds texture and warmth, and she includes it in most of the homes she designs.
Layer with baskets, blankets and greenery. All three make a room feel cozy and add color and interest to a space.
L o v e a n d L a u g h t e r
P R O F E S S I O N A L P H O T O G R A P H E R R O S A N N A P E Ñ A F L O R I D A
H E L P S F A M I L I E S G E T C O M F O R T A B L E F O R T H E C A M E R A
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g o a l i s t o m a k e e v e r y p h o t o s e s s i o n f u n a n d s t r e s s - f r e e . T o h e l p w i t h t h a t ,
I p r o v i d e a c o m p r e h e n s i v e , t w e l v e - p a g e s t y l e g u i d e w i t h e x a m p l e s t h a t
e n c o u r a g e s f a m i l i e s t o c o o r d i n a t e t h e i r o u t f i t s w i t h c o m p l e m e n t a r y
c o l o r s . I r e c o m m e n d l o n g , f l o w y d r e s s e s f o r a f l a t t e r i n g s i l h o u e t t e o n
w o m e n F o r m e n , f i t t e d d r e s s p a n t s p a i r e d w i t h a t a i l o r e d b u t t o n - u p s h i r t
a n d a l a y e r e d s p o r t s j a c k e t c r e a t e a t i m e l e s s , p o l i s h e d l o o k .
M o s t i m p o r t a n t l y , t h e b e s t a c c e s s o r y i s j o y n o t h i n g e n h a n c e s a p h o t o
m o r e t h a n g e n u i n e h a p p i n e s s N o p r i o r c a m e r a e x p e r i e n c e i s n e e d e d j u s t
b r i n g a s m i l e a n d I ’ l l h a n d l e t h e r e s t !
R e c e i v e $ 5 0 o f f y o u r s e s s i o n w h e n y o u m e n t i o n E a s t C o b b C i t y L i f e s t y l e !
O f f e r v a l i d u n t i l J u l y 3 1 , 2 0 2 5 .
