Issuu

F E B R UA RY 2 022 | TH E LO C A L LOV E I S S U E

Growing Creativity

TR AV E L

O RL AN D O, H ERE WE CO M E H E A LTH + W E LLN E S S

M O N E Y, LOVE AN D M ARRIAGE

It’s a seller’s dream market. If you’re considering making a move, make Regan Maki Couch your first call.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Hello friends,

February 2022 PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com

During this month, our issue is all about love and creativity. Love, well, it’s Valentine’s Day and you can’t swing a dead cat without hitting something pink and glittery as you navigate through your day here in Johns Creek. Maybe I overdosed on the holiday working retail (back in the day) and racing to get three dozen cupcakes safely to the kids’ classrooms before the sugar-high party commenced. One year, I gave into the frenzy and served dessert for dinner. My kids thought the idea of chocolate fondue for dinner was dreamy and we continued the tradition for a number of years. Now, I like to think about Valentine’s Day as another opportunity to show love AND appreciation for people who make my days brighter. Our copy editor, Stacy Conde, deserves all the fondue she can stomach for putting up with my last-minute changes and persnickety preferences. Thank you, superstar! Karyn Slovin is on my list too. Karyn manages the lovely ads you see in the magazine (ahem, they keep us afloat) and is always cheerful and works her chocolate kisses off to make sure our ad partners are happy. That brings me to you. You, dear readers, make me happy. Thank you for taking the time to read our magazine, support our advertisers and email me your story ideas. I’m lost without you all! Enjoy this issue and DO find someone in your life who deserves your appreciation and love.

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com COPY EDITOR

Stacy Conde AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER

Sara Minor CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Sean O'Keefe, , Rachel Butler Dorneanu, Lora Sommers CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Michele Sheetz

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

All my best,

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER Bruce Ianni DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @JOHNSCREEKLIFEST Y LE

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

PS That's me in Jackson Hole, WY. My cousin, the amazing Tom Matthews snapped the photo while we were nordic skiing in Grand Teton National Park. Watch for my story on the Four Seasons Jackson Hole. Oh la la! Talk about LOVE.

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

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E .C O M /J O H N S C R E E K |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Johns Creek City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johns Creek area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. 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 Johns Creek City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable,

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

but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

inside the issue The Local Love Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 The Skinny on Injectables, Cellulite, Treatment and Wrinkles.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Healthy Lifestyle

Travel Journal

How To

Our Town

Locals Only

Maker’s Studio

Events

Innovations and information are job one at The Graivier Center.

22 Houseplants - The Perfect Roommate An indoor garden sanctuary can be yours.

26 Love (and Counseling) Before Marriage Consider communication, partner habits, conflict resolution, and financial management.

O N T H E C OV E R

Plants bring you peace. Our writer, Sean O'Keefe invites you into his home garden and shares his love for house plants. While he has two green thumbs, he promises there is a plant for everyone.

FI T NES S

T R AV EL

HO ME + DES I GN HEA LT H + WELLNES S A RTS + C U LT U R E A RT + C U LT UR E

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen in the city. 1

7 5

1: Christopher Baldwin, Baldwin Architectural Group with publisher Jim Newman 2: Benjamin King of Pet Wants Johns Creek and Mackinzie Parker, Beacham Realty 3: Editor Sue Collins and Stephanie Frink, GM of BMW of Gwinnett Place, both from Michigan. 4: One big, happy City Lifestyle family at Johns Creek World of Beverages 5: The pit crew from Bentley of Atlanta in Alpharetta 6: Gifts from Regina's Kitchen and senior sales manager Karyn Slovin, for all 7: Victor and Herminio Mora of HA Mora with Mackinzie Parker

C I T Y SC E N E

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your social media photos with @johnscreeklifestyle

8: Dr. Sandra Vargas and Dr. Dani Vargas, North Atlanta Family Dentistry 9: Event host, Mahesh Ariyakula of Johns Creek World of Beverages 10: Wines from the extensive collection at World of Beverages were sipped and enjoyed.

AT CEN T E R FO R D RY E YE AT LANTA, T R E AT I NG YO UR D RY, R ED , IR R ITAT ED , WAT ERY EY ES IS WH AT WE D O. IT IS A L L W E D O !

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Authentic Italian Pizza in Johns Creek Itala Pizza is now open in Johns Creek. The crust is made from special, finely milled flour, active yeast and pristine water that bakes up tender and light. Itala Pizza imports San Marzano tomatoes, artisanal buffalo mozzarella and ʻ00ʼ flour from Italy weekly. We even had our wood-fired ovens custom-made in Naples. They are made from volcanic sand and can reach temperatures over 1,200º. ItalaPizza.com/

If you want to be included, send us a message! Visit CityLifestyle.com/JohnsCreek to get in touch.

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

ELECTRIFY YOUR NEW YEAR.

PLP Logistics Honored PLP Logistics of Johns Creek has been ranked, for the sixth straight year, on the Inc. 5000 List, the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The list looks at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent small businesses. PLP, a Third-Party Logistics business, launched in late 2011 and has implemented a business model that provides transportation management services for manufacturers and distributors across multiple industries. PLPLogistics.com

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

From Basic to Breathtaking We’ve Got You Covered

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Montage, Out West Montage Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of Montage Big Sky, a modern alpine retreat offering an elevated spirit of comfort and distinctive amenities that epitomize today’s sense of luxury, in an idyllic location for year-round adventures in Southwest Montana. Montage Big Sky offers ski-in/ski-out access to Big Sky Resort, three world-class Blue Ribbon fly-fishing rivers, a private 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf, a 10,000-square-foot Spa Montage, mountain-inspired dining and more. MontageHotels.com

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Smile! It’s The New Year! DENTAL APPOINTMENTS SHOULD BE INFORMATIVE AND ENJOYABLE! YOU CAN TRUST THAT EVERY TIME YOU LEAVE OUR OFFICE, YOU’LL FEEL BETTER FOR HAVING STOPPED BY!

OUR GOALS AT NORTH ATLANTA FAMILY DENTISTRY It’s pretty simple: We want to help our patients and our community get and keep a beautiful, healthy smile! Our skilled and experienced team of dentists, assistants, hygienists, and off ice staff work together to achieve this goal, giving our patients the time and individualized care they need to achieve healthy teeth and gums.

MEET DR. DANI VARGAS WE ARE SO EXCITED TO HAVE DR. DANI JOIN THE TEAM! HER TWO PASSIONS ARE

Honors for Dr. Vargas

TEETH AND FOOD - THE PERFECT COMBO.

Dr. Sandra Vargas of North Atlanta Family Dentistry was nominated as one of the top healthcare providers in the Atlanta area by Mujer Magazine. Dr. Vargas and her family attended the annual gala that recognizes leaders in the Latino community. SmileGeorgia.com 678.778.5008 Together We Smile, Inc. 501(c)3

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

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Students Lead Student Leadership Johns Creek and Johns Creek Public Safety Foundation, have come together to fundraise for firefighters and police officers hurt in the line of duty. The SLJC group includes Ava Sun, Ansh Shah, Jeremy McWhirter, Brian Woo, Connor McIlhinney, Sanaa Khan, and Meghana Malempati from Johns Creek High School, along with SLJC Executive Director Irene Sanders and the Chairman of Johns Creek Public Safety Foundation Steve Broadbent. StudentLeadershipJohnsCreek.com

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

The Skinny on Injectables, Cellulite Treatment and Wrinkles ARTICLE BY ALPHARETTA CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Innovations and information are job one at The Graivier Center

David, Vera and Michael are loving getting to know Johns Creek.

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FI TNE S S

Dr. David Hill

Dr. David Hill is a plastic surgeon at The Graivier Center and loves his job. He revels in the tiny details of his work and is a warrior about helping patients heal and feel and look their very best. We caught up with him to talk about the intricacies of injections and innovations in his field. Alpharetta City Lifestyle: Plastic surgery is a remarkable specialty that covers a broad spectrum of procedures with rewarding outcomes. From aesthetics to reconstruction, it must be incredibly rewarding to be able to change people’s lives by enhancing their appearance and creating improved self-esteem and quality of life. Dr. David Hill: Having been extensively trained on nearly all aspects of the body from head to toe, I still enjoy operations involving all areas of the body. I keep my skills in tip-top shape by varying the types of cases I perform weekly. This ensures that I am both mentally and physically prepared to solve any issue involving any area that a patient may have. Recently, face and neck lift procedures have become increasingly popular due to virtual meetings. These operations can be technically challenging as you are working around some of the most important structures of the face. This difficulty is perhaps what makes these cases even more rewarding. Fortunately, we have many good options to repair and tighten the area whether it’s less invasive procedures such as liposuction with ThermiTight or a MyEllevate neck lift, to a full lower face and neck lift. There are many great options, and through a private consultation, we select the option that will best fit the outcome you are seeking. ACL: We’re hearing a lot about QWO (collagenase clostridium histolyticum-aaes), a newer FDA-approved treatment. Tell us more! DH: From the injectables, QWO has quickly become one of the most popular cellulite treatments. It’s a great winter treatment to become summer-ready. The Graivier Center has also been selected to participate in a hyper dilute Radiesse Injection trial to receive FDA approval specifically

for use of in the décolleté area. Traditional Radiesse acts as a volumizer, versus the hyper dilute version, which rejuvenates by strengthening collagen, decreasing fine lines and wrinkles. Dr. Graivier was one of the first to utilize the hyper dilute form of Radiesse and we have been using it successfully to rejuvenate the hand and neck areas. We are excited to help bring this injection option towards FDA approval. ACL: Botox is everywhere. What should we look for before making the big decision about this injection? DH: While injections such as botox and fillers are becoming increasingly common, with med spa locations as accessible as a coffee shop, it is important to get to know your injector. Basic injection training may deliver results for most patients, but experience and knowledge of anatomy is crucial in preventing problems and complications. Injecting into a blood vessel is one of the most severe complications, but it is treatable if recognized and acted upon in a timely manner of about 90 minutes or less. If untreated, it could lead to skin loss and possible blindness. Some of our referrals involve patients who need to reverse their injections due to issues such as infections, granuloma development (severely inflamed areas) and extreme bruising. Problems can arise in any area of injection, but some of the higher risk areas include the glabella (between the eyebrows), under the eyes and mid-face. These are medical procedures. Thus, I recommend you take time to make your decision and ask questions prior to treatment. ACL: You are busy! DH: Yes! Another rewarding aspect of surgery is the ability to provide care not only in the U.S., but also abroad performing mission work. In the past five years, I was fortunate to partake in nine medical mission trips to countries ranging from Columbia and Guatemala, to the Congo and Zimbabwe. It is always a wonderful opportunity to teach and learn, as well as develop everlasting friendships. TheGraivierCenter.com FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

ESCAPE WINTER WITH AN ORLANDO W E E K E N D G E TAWAY ARTICLE BY RHIANNON JOHNSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RHIANNON JOHNSON & PROVIDED

If the winter temperatures are making your teeth chatter, head to Orlando to shake off the chill. This warm weekend getaway destination is just a 1.5-hour flight from Atlanta and has so much more to offer than its famous theme parks. Home Base Hot Spot: The AC Hotel Orlando Downtown Your accommodations always set the tone for your vacation, so look no further than the newly opened (January 2021) AC Hotel Orlando Downtown. Located just 20 minutes from Orlando International Airport, this chic 180-room hotel offers an authentic high-rise experience. Its 18th-floor reception space features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the city, and sleek, European-inspired guest rooms feature a natural color palette of soft gray tones, wood floors, and local art. Guests will enjoy the thoughtfully selected traveler-centered amenities and gadgets, including free Wi-Fi, multiple USB ports, smart ambient temperature and lighting controls, streaming-equipped HDTVs, and white noise machines. On-site dining options allow you to start the day with freshly sliced prosciutto, savory egg tarts, and signature butter croissants imported from France at the AC Kitchen and enjoy flatbreads, small plates, and sandwiches throughout the rest of the day and evening. Experience Amazing Adventures and Attractions Perfectly situated in the heart of the city, your hotel offers endless options for adventure right outside the front door. Exploria Stadium, Amway Center, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, and the CityArts arts

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

gallery are all within walking distance. If you're ready to get onto one of the over 100 lakes in Florida, rent a pedal-powered swan boat on historic Lake Eola or sign up for an amazing after-dark outdoor adventure with Epic Paddle Adventures. Their Night Glow tours allow paddle boarders and kayakers to view the gorgeous underwater ecosystem of Lake Ivanhoe in a unique way, with powerful multi-color LED lights reflecting their brilliant colors below as you paddle through the clear water of this local paradise. Fall in Love with the Wine and Food Scene Wine lovers should take a tour or soak in the ambiance of the Tasting Room at Quantum Leap Winery, a local winery committed to sustainability practices and their quality, environmentally friendly wines. Foodies absolutely must treat themselves to the most beautiful charcuterie boards, decadent lobster pizza, and a full caviar menu at Bites & Bubbles in the Heart of the Mills 50 District at Mills Park. For a wider variety of fare from local chefs, check out one of Orlando's several food markets, such as Church Street Market, East End Market, and Bumby Arcade Food Hall. End Each Day High in the Sky After a full day of exploration and adventure, experience 360° city views at your hotel's SkyBar Rooftop Terrace, where both guests and locals flock to enjoy artful cocktails, local craft beers, and tapas-sized bites along with unparalleled views of "the City Beautiful."

Bites & Bubbles in the Heart of the Mills 50 District at Mills Park in Orlando.

Night Glow paddling on Lake Ivanhoe

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

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HOUSEPLANTS THE PERFECT ROOMMATE An indoor garden sanctuary

ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOLIE LOREN The ubiquitous houseplant has long been a cautious curiosity for many. Comments such as “I don’t have a green thumb," or “I can’t keep anything alive," have echoed through the rooms and hallways of almost every home in America. Well, it's time to dispel all the mistruths about whether houseplants are beneficial and to lay the foundation for a little oasis of green happiness in the corner of every home! By the way, you don’t really need a green thumb as there are plenty of hard-to-kill houseplants that can survive any level of neglect! And remember, not only do houseplants look pretty, they also decrease stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and bring a sense of joy and relaxation to every room. Houseplants make us feel better about ourselves in many ways because they allow us to care for them and we reap the rewards of that love. No one is alone when you have a houseplant, as they are our forever listeners. Yes, some people actually do talk with their houseplants all day long! There are many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment. Aside from reducing indoor air pollutants and increasing humidity in the home, house plants have been shown to reduce mental fatigue, accelerate the healing process, as well as improve productivity and focus. Pothos, spider plants, lady palms, yucca, and succulents are so pretty and easy to grow. It is no wonder that we have seen a revival of indoor gardening trends. Instagram is teeming with photos of incredible indoor "living green" vignettes that show us all how clever we can be when decorating with house plants! All you really need is to a pick a place in the home that has the best light and pick your plants. Think outside of the box when it comes to decorating with houseplants. Look for underused spaces. Use mixed and matched pots of different sizes and shapes. Turn a shelf into a plant display. Go vertical with some hanging plants or an antique ladder. You can even group some of your favorite plants together into a single large decorative pot.

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H OW TO | HOM E + D ESIG N

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There are many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment. Signature large plant displays anchor the most well-designed rooms in America and it’s all there for us to look at, learn from, and bring into our own home. Whether combined into a single large decorative pot or clustered together in a corner, always remember the key to any house plant décor is to have a thriller, a tall plant usually with a strong color and form; filler plants that literally will fill the pot covering all the soil; and a spiller plant that trails over the edge of the pot. Try any combination of your favorite plants or a tried and true combination of a fiddle-leaf fig, a prayer plant, and a string of pearls. No matter how you look at it, houseplants improve our lives in many ways. Indoor gardens provide us an alternative way to commune with nature and to reconnect with the living world. We all benefit from the additional life that houseplants bring into our homes. In this crazy world of ours, wouldn’t be it nice to return home to your own personal indoor greenspace. Happy gardening!

The author’s home garden.

For more information and inspiration you can check out blogs such as Urban Jungle, Clever Bloom, and Green Obsessions or you can get lost in the millions of images on Instagram.

HOUSEPLANT TYPES:

RUBBER PLANT

SPIDER PLANT

STRING OF PEARLS

H OW TO | HOM E + D ESIG N

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LOVE (AND COUNSELING) BEFORE MARRIAGE

O UR TOWN | HEALTH + W E LLNE S S

COMMUNICATION, PARTNER HABITS, CONFLICT RESOLUTION, AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT.

live in your world, relax in ours...

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ARTICLE BY RACHEL BUTLER DORNEANU PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

PREMARITAL COUPLES COUNSELING: 4 Ways It Can Improve Your Relationship Premarital Couples Counseling is under-utilized and under-valued. It’s important to have a strong foundation for your marriage. A few aspects of a healthy marriage I’ll be talking about include: communication, partner habits, conflict resolution, and financial management.

CONTINUED >

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Others may make compromises to go out more often. Do you have a good balance of activities together and on your own? Some couples, in the beginning, want to do everything together. Find some time to explore your own hobbies without your partner. How to work on this: • Explore your personal passions and hobbies and get involved • Have a discussion about the habit of concern and find a compromise • Identify activities you can do together as a couple if there is a current lack

CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Are you able to express differing opinions in a healthy way? Conflict resolution is needed to make progress in the relationship and not stay in the same fights. Each couple has a different way of handling conflict that works for them. Some take a break to cool down. Others make lists of topics to discuss so they don’t get off track. Suppressing concerns will build over time and can lead to nasty blowups.

COMMUNICATION

Can you tell your partner everything that is going on in your life? Communication is extremely important in a relationship. If you can’t share your highs and lows with someone, they may not make the best partner in the long run. Your partner should be able to be a sounding board and vice versa. How to work on this: • Practice active listening and using “I” statements, for example: “ I feel ___ about ___ because of ___” • Avoid “You” statements, they tend to make the other person feel defensive • Use open body language and eye contact to show your partner you are listening

PARTNER HABITS

Have you accepted that you cannot change your partner? This is a hard pill to swallow for some individuals. Their habits may be different than yours and you will need to find a compromise. Such habits could be house cleaning, dining preferences, travel, laundry, hobbies, and more. Some couples may decrease their cleaning standard.

O UR TOWN | HEALTH + W E LLNE S S

How to work on this: • Find a time that works for both of your schedules to have a conversation without distractions • Identify times in the past that have not helped the conflict at hand and solutions that may work in the future • Agree on how you will both work toward the desired result together

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Do you have a budget and agree on it? Setting a budget, if you haven’t already, can be scary. You’ll be sharing your spending and saving habits. Although potentially anxiety-inducing, being honest about your financial situation can make sure everyone is on the same page. How to work on this: • Identify how you value money: as security, enjoyment or status • Discuss and decide how you and your partner want to spend your life: big house vs. apartment, public transportation vs. nice cars, etc. • Identify short term and long term financial goals as a couple

Rachel Butler Dorneanu, MS APC NCC, Johns Creek and Alpharetta Counseling. AlpharettaJohnsCreekCounseling.com RachelButlerCounseling.com 404.490.1566

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"Our mission is to educate & empower our community as they move into their next chapter." - Regan Maki Couch

By combining a dedicated, results-oriented approach with local experience and strong technical knowledge, Regan serves as an expert advisor and trusted REALTOR to real estate buyers, sellers, and developers across the North Atlanta area. Her broad experience encompasses residential sales, new home construction, and commercial sales.

Regan’s ability to connect with clients is what makes her unique and top-of-the-line. She achieves a broad view and takes the time to educate and empower her clients before, during, and even after the buying/selling process, the market, and the areas. Her patience in developing these long-lasting relationships is what makes her stand out and contributes to her great success.

Regan Maki Couch C: 404.304.6452 O: 404.590.4443 regan.maki@gmail.com

Wood Speaks For Herminio Mora, it's all about the grain ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELE SHEETZ

Herminio Mora spends all day with wood. At work, with his business, H.A.Mora Inc. a full-service exterior and interior painting, roofing, and renovation company. And, at play, in his shop, woodworking and creating beautiful bread boards, tables and decorative accent pieces for the home. When he launched his business, workdays were perfecting framing, designing and executing trim work and painting. Working with wood is in his DNA. "When I first started in construction, I

noticed there were more efficient ways to do framing as well as trimming and I would improvise then create some figures with the scraps," says Herminio. CL: What kind of woodworking projects did you complete in 2021 and what new kind of projects are you looking forward to in 2022? HM: I have always focused on the high-end market which demands custom handmade wood kitchen CONTINUED >

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BRUNCH HAS RETURNED EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY! 10AM - 2PM

VISIT FACEBOOK FOR A LIST OF UPCOMING EVENTS HOURS

DINING ROOM

Monday-Saturday 11am - 10pm

/Cherrystreethalcyon

Sunday 10am - 9pm

BREWHOUSE BAR Monday-Thursday 3pm - 10pm Friday-Saturday 11am - 12am Sunday 11am - 9pm

BRUNCH

Saturday & Sunday 10am - 2pm

6640 Town Square Alpharetta, GA 30005 (770) 696-4929

Cherrystreethalcyon.com

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and bathroom cabinets. However, entering 2021 after the pandemic, the demand for these skyrocketed, especially due to the shortage in wood and labor supply and I noticed I could also focus on complementary items such as tables and cutting boards so we can offer a wide range of products to our customers and be consistent with their design. We will continue to focus on this in 2022 and hopefully a small pre-ordered tables and cutting boards shop. CL: What brought you to the north Atlanta area and why do you like the area for your business? HM: I actually have been in Atlanta since 1996, I decided to come right after the Olympics because of the high demand in the construction industry. Word of mouth about my work spread and as the city grew so did my business. I like the area because you have a combination of houses built in the 60s all the way through the 2020s. This gives you the ability to work with different styles, use different techniques and be creative to adapt to every situation. Also, the fact that houses are surrounded by nature gives it a special touch! CL: Tell us about theses projects. HM: I used hickory oak for the bar as well as for the lattice behind the piano because it is more malleable and white oak for the table. We use several tools, but the key is the sanding! We are old school and pay attention to details so we have the best outcome. It is a very slow process but gives you the best finishes. The epoxy used for the orange inlay table is very unique! CL: What trends are you excited about for your industry? Is painting brick still a popular solution? HM: The upcoming years will be very interesting because of supply chain issues

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We are old school and pay attention to details so we have the best outcome. It is a very slow process but gives you the best finishes.

and material availability. I am very excited to see what can be done with less and to get out of the pre-made ordinary stuff and homeowners and designers actually doing more with local providers. I always tell my clients painted brick looks good but you need to apply the right primer and make sure it is pressure washed every 8 months or so. When it comes to interior painted bricks, it always depends on the house style. HAMoraInc.com 404.886.6255

Designing and creating custom bars, shelving and trim are the pride and joy fr Herminio and his team at H.A. Mora.

Dr. Jill Golsen, DMD

Dr. Parth Patel, DMD

NO DENTAL INSUR ANCE ? NO PROBLEM! Our IN-HOUSE MEMBERSHIP CLUB can help you save on all of your family’s dental treatments with none of the hassles of traditional dental insurance: NO CO-PAYS, NO DEDUCTIBLES, AND NO ANNUAL MAXIMUMS. • Each membership includes exams and X-rays at no additional cost, plus a discount on most other services, including cosmetic, implants, and elective treatments. • The membership pays for itself with one standard cleaning or tooth-colored filling!

BEFORE

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CA L L O R T E XT 7 7 0 - 6 6 7 - 0 6 6 9 T O E N R O L L ! B E N E F I T S B E G I N I M M E D I AT E LY !

770.667.0669 | www.GolsenDental.com 3400-A Old Milton Parkway, Suite 430, Alpharetta FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

A Plateful of Personality Follow Amy on Instagram @amywynnedesigns Visit online: Personality Plates by AmyWynne Designs

AMYWYNNE DESIGNS LAUNCHES NEW BRAND

ARTICLE BY LORA SOMMERS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESTY OF AMYWYNNE DESIGNS

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Women are at the heart of AmyWynne Designs’ newly launched brand, Personality Plates. Artist Amy Wynne Rees created Personality Plates as a tribute to the women who have helped, motivated, and inspired her throughout her life – in both happy and more turbulent times. These limited-edition stoneware appetizer and dessert-sized plates are brightly colored, bold, and full of personality. Each piece is individually handpainted with an original design. Amy includes a sentimental note in each set. “My hope is that women will connect with the plates and the sentiments as much as I do,” explains Amy. “Each collection of plates will also have an insert card reflecting the sentiment and meaning behind the plates.” She has other sets in the works including a special edition for Mah Jong Ladies and Christmas 2022. "I will also be partnering with several artists to create a diverse collection of plates which will be available in 2022.” Amy continues, “Part of our mission is to help support women who don't have their own support system. Each year, AmyWynne Designs will be donating a portion of the proceeds to a non-profit of the artist's choice.”

Experience Authentic Vietnamese & Asian Cuisine in our Elegant & Relaxing Atmosphere

ABOUT THE ARTIST Amy Wynne Rees was born in New York City but spent her childhood in a small town outside of Syracuse. Two weeks after graduating college, Amy found herself accepting a job at CNN. She moved to Atlanta in 1988. In 1995, Amy found her creative passion, pottery, while struggling in her first marriage. The evenings spent in the pottery studio among other creative women trying to find a way to express themselves provided the perfect sanctuary. One day in the studio, Amy’s first plate was born, the first of many to embody a collection of women with different names and stories. These initial plates were the inspiration for what is now the Personality Plates collection. Today, Amy still lives in the suburbs of Atlanta with her third husband, Jim, and her goldendoodle, Cleo. Their blended family includes four beautiful daughters. PersonalityPlates.com

770-622-5000 lemekongcuisine.com 10900 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek, GA 30097 FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

Valentine’s Day Special Family and locally owned flower shop providing unique designed arrangements and caring flowers services for any occasion.

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events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in the city. FEBR UARY 9 TH

Family Yoga

O C E E L I B R A RY | 4 :30 P M Join Pat Gagne for this favored yoga program, open to children ages 3-7 with parent(s) or guardian to learn breathing, stretching, dance, and basic yoga poses. Contact karen.kennedy @fultoncountyga.gov for more information or call 404.613.6840. Free and open to the public. Bring yoga mat and comfortable clothing.

FEBR UARY 15TH

Young Artist Classes

O C E E L I B R A RY | 2:0 0 P M Young Artists classes are back this year. Each class is designed to teach the fundamentals of art, including perspective, shading, cartooning and manga, to children and teens. Registration is not required. Limit first 20. All programs are free and open to the public. Ages 5 and above with parent. More info: FulCoLibrary.Bibliocommons.com/

Let fowers say it for you

Anniversaries • Birthdays • Congratulations • Love & Romance • New Baby • Sympathy • Thinking of You • Thank You • Valentines • Mother’s Day Memorial Day • Father’s Day • Veteran’s Day • Thanksgiving • Christmas

(678) 395-3505 summerbreezeflowersjc.com 36

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Exceptional Senior Living! INDEPENDENT LIVING | PERSONAL CARE Contact Us TODAY and explore the possibilities of the Parc Lifestyle!

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3315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth, GA 30096

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events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in the city.

K U RT ’ S E U RO B I S T RO : Since 1985

FEBR UARY 18TH

Karla Harris - The Blue Stone Jazz Series

SA NDY S P R I NG S P E R F O R M I N G A RTS C E NT E R | 7 :0 0 P M The Blue Stone Jazz Series presented by the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center. An evening of straight-ahead and contemporary jazz, blues favorites and a few originals performed by Atlanta's favorite Roswell resident, Karla Harris. CitySprings.com/Events/

FEBR UARY 22ND

The BFG Band, Live

A B B OT T ' S B A R A ND G R I L L | 8 :0 0 P M Boogie, Funk & Groove Band plays at Abbott's, where friends meet with friends, new and old while enjoying food, drinks, sports, live music, karaoke & live music with the BFG Band. Get your groove on! AbbottsBar.com

YO UR NEIGH BORHO OD BISTRO

Enomatic® Wine Dispenser now available at Kurt’s Wine Bar in Duluth where you can try a variety of unique wines in 1, 3, or 6 oz. pours We concentrate on the freshest ingredients and local flavors in a small, intimate atmosphere with a great wine selection and full bar (770) 623-4128 | kurtsrestaurant.com 3305 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard Duluth, Georgia 30096 38

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Making client’s lives better one project at a time.

Make Your Home the Destination

DREAM | DESIGN | BUILD Turnkey Solutions Kitchens / Baths • Basements / Additions Covered Decks / Sunrooms • New Home Construction

(770) 642-1002 | D B AT L A N TA .C O M

Pamper Yourself or a Loved One!

CALL US TODAY AT 770.772.0695 TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT! @graiviercenter