SOFU, GA July 2024 by City Lifestyle

Explore! Reconnect, Rediscover, Recharge!

Hey Y'all,

We live in an efficiency and productivityobsessed age. I admit I fall into the trap sometimes. The trap of believing the only things worth doing are those for which I can make an exact calculation of the time, effort and investment. The things that result in the highest level of control and least amount of uncertainty. But the truth is that is really a sad and unfulfilling way to go through life.

We must leave some room for exploring, to try new places and things, to be a beginner, even for getting lost. It is those times that are unstructured and open-ended where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered and trust to be built.

If you know me IRL or if you are a dedicated SoFu Lifestyle reader, you know that my annual Girls Trip with my closest sorority sisters means the world to me. We have dedicated ourselves to prioritize this special time together, reconnecting and spending time rediscovering ourselves and recharging as the summer begins. This year we went to check out the Uncle Nearest Distillery in Tennessee, dressed in our Beyonce Cowboy Carter outfits! No kids. No husbands. No dogs. Just us, and a lot of laughs!

As my son becomes a teen, I've really been analyzing my relationship with my kid, how our family operates as a unit and what we love. The way I made this clearer was to first focus on the things that I don't love spending time on. For our family, it’s screens. For yours, it may be too many busy weeknights or not enough dinners around the table together. I've noticed that "adventures" and “exploration” doesn't even have to be something big. It can be playing a board game out on the patio, walking a new trail or going out to find a fun ice cream parlor we've never been to before.

Our hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration. To prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. Take a weekend staycation! Lose yourself in a book. Book that dream trip to Italy you’ve been thinking about! Let your hair down on a cruise designed especially for adults! Make time for the things that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar. Get out there and explore, SoFu!

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Erikka Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tomeka Jones, Jada Garner, Patrick T. Cooper, Jasmine Tiffany, Sean O’Keefe

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

David Allen, Liz Erikson, Shoccara Marcus, Ballie B Photography, Jao Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL, EDITOR

scene

Discover Union City, GeorgiaWhere Business Meets Ambiance

Designated as the fastest-growing City in Georgia, Union City combines the charm of an intimate community with the cultural, residential, and economic prowess of a large metropolis.

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South Fulton Student Wins Public Speaking Contest and Scholarship

Fulton County student Braxton Camille Smith won third place in the district-level oratorical contest of Optimist International, walking away with a $1,000 scholarship for college! Braxton, a rising 10th grader, competed in the GATEway District Contest of Optimist International on April 27, 2024, at Chattahoochee Technical College, North Metro campus. Braxton, 15, represented the Emory Decatur Optimist Club and Zone five, advancing to the Area level contest before competing at the GATEway District contest of Optimist International.

Atlanta-Based Rapper Ludacris Celebrates Daughter’s Graduation From Spelman College

Chris "Ludacris" Bridges celebrated his daughter Karma Bridges' graduation with honors from Spelman on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Karma graduated with honors from the prestigious historically Black college which is a global leader in the education of women of African descent, earning a BA in Documentary Filmmaking. She also was initiated into the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society which celebrates excellence in liberal arts and sciences.

Tyler Mitchell: Idyllic Space at the High Through December 1

Atlanta native Tyler Mitchell (born 1995) ascended to global prominence when he photographed Beyoncé for the September 2018 issue of Vogue, the first Black artist to shoot the cover in the magazine’s history. The High will present a major exhibition featuring his seamless blend of fine art and fashion photography, along with a new photo-sculptural artwork. Mitchell centers Black selfdetermination and empowerment with affirmative images.

Tyler Mitchell (American, born 1995), Albany, Georgia, 2021, archival pigment print, courtesy of the artist. © Tyler Mitchell.

ARTICLE BY JASMINE TIFFANY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAO PHOTOGRAPHY

Harris Chandria

COMPASSIONATE LEADER

In a world where resilience and initiative can shape destiny, Chandria Harris’ empowerment and inclusivity initiatives stand as an example. From her humble beginnings to her impactful endeavors in organizational development, Chandria’s journey is one of determination and the pursuit of excellence.

“I'm passionate about advocating for employees and fostering a work environment where everyone feels welcome and valued,” Chandria emphasizes.

“Growing up with a sick parent and a hardworking blue-collar father taught me the value of initiative and resilience,” Chandria reflects. “These qualities helped me secure my first professional role at the young age of 19 as an administrative assistant to an elementary school principal.”

Despite competition from older candidates, Chandria’s eagerness set her up for success, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.

Passionate about advocating for employees and fostering inclusive work environments, Chandria’s expertise in change management and inclusion led her to spearhead groundbreaking initiatives in the corporate world. Her unique leadership development program, embraced by C-suite clients, offers mid-level employees learning opportunities and promotes collaboration across departments, creating a win-win scenario for individuals and organizations alike.

“As a consultant, I bring nuanced understanding of leadership cultures to the table,”

Chandria explains. “There’s no one-size-fits-all leadership strategy. I dive deep into the nuances of organizational dynamics, crafting tailored development plans that align with overarching goals and objectives.”

Rooted in her counseling psychology background, Chandria’s approach to career coaching and organizational development is marked by empathy and a deep understanding of human behavior.

“I see organizations as systems where healthy team dynamics and emotional intelligence are paramount to success,” she notes. “My interventions not only unlock individual potential but also foster a sense of belonging and well-being within teams.”

Beyond the boardroom, Chandria’s commitment to empowering underserved communities is palpable.

“HBCU students have and will always have my heart,” she says. “This work has been one of the best moments in my life, and I will always cherish it.”

She is also a mother, daughter, sister and friend. Chandria’s story is one of resilience, empowerment, and unwavering commitment to driving positive change. As her journey continues to unfold, one thing remains clear: her work transcends boundaries, leaving incredible marks on every individual and community she encounters.

ESCAPE TO THE HEART OF TUSCANY

A LUXURIOUS ITALIAN RETREAT

A Tuscan oasis, Relais La Corte Dei Papi awaits couples or even solo travelers looking to visit one of the most popular regions in Italy. The rustic-style luxurious estate is in the hillside town of Cortona about 2 hours north of Rome and less than 90 minutes south of Florence by train. Once your feet touch the ancient grounds of the well-manicured boutique property, you’re immediately

ARTICLE BY TOMEKA JONES PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RELAIS LA CORTE DEI PAPI

connected to the peace, opulence, and warm Italian hospitality.

As the saying goes, “Love is in the air” and it’s also radiating throughout Relais La Corte Dei Papi, especially inside the 16 on-site guestrooms, particularly Suite 11. Walk through the double antique doors to view a deluxe 538-square-foot renaissance-themed room with gold trim antique furnishings. The “aha”

moment when I realized the resort truly epitomized luxury was seeing the private in-suite spa area where one can fully relax and rejuvenate, uninterrupted, in the comfort of their own room.

An array of lights and mood selection of sounds flow from the multi-sensory shower with the touch of a few buttons for a therapeutic cleansing experience. And that’s not all—the same space turns

“FOR A ROMANTIC, SECLUDED, AND ELEGANT EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE, RELAIS LA CORTE DEI PAPI IS THE IDEAL LOVEFILLED ITALIAN RETREAT TO CONSIDER ALL YEAR LONG.”

into a steam room for even more detoxification. I can’t forget the elegant Turkish-style jacuzzi tub big enough to accommodate two people and the perfect place to unwind and soak after a long day. Suite 11 was my happy place for the duration of my stay.

As a serene 17th century family-owned estate, Relais La Corte Dei Papi also provides guests with a fine-dining culinary excellence with traditional Tuscan-inspired dishes. My favorites were the scallops garnished with a caper flower and licorice foam, and the Tagliolini pasta with white truffle. Both dishes were paired with one of La Corte

Dei Papi’s signature wines produced from the vineyards located on the property. I just couldn’t get enough of the smooth and delightful taste of the Vino Rosso (which means The Court of Popes) red wine. Hats off to head chef Giuseppe Masciopinto and his team for the incredible savory four-course meals, and even the private cooking lesson they hosted allowing us to make and eat our own Italian pasta.

Now it’s easy to continue to indulge in the resort’s pampering by going for a swim or enjoying a massage, I mean, it is a romantic retreat. However, since you’re visiting Cortona, the heart of

Tuscany, you’ll likely want to explore and take pictures in the countryside town where the 2003 romantic comedy “Under the Tuscan Sun” was filmed. For history lovers, the Maec Museum is a gem filled with unique details about the ancient village and Egyptian history. Cortona captured my heart mainly because of the food, particularly the fondue at Ristorante La Loggetta; it’s the best I’ve ever had. I can still smell and taste the fresh, hot melted cheese with truffle.

To learn more about this resort and to book your reservation, go to LaCorteDeiPapi.com.

HOLLYWOOD IN OUR BACKYARD: THE ULTIMATE MOVIELAND STAYCATION!

Lights, Camera, Trilith Guesthouse!

ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ ERIKSON OF TRILITH GUESTHOUSE

From the welcome cocktail to the perfectly appointed, well-designed guestrooms and suites, this hotel is the definition of easy, luxury accommodations.

Rising triumphally from the farmland and pastures of Fayette County, Trilith Guesthouse is the epitome of global style and Southern graciousness. The hotel’s sleek design, midcentury modern furniture, and welcoming living room and library transport guests into a modern version of Hollywood’s past just waiting to be awakened. As if there for a generation, Trilith Guesthouse anchors the town, creating a lasting experience designed to illuminate the storyteller within.

Thoughtful touches throughout the hotel and impeccable service are hallmarks of Trilith Guesthouse. The hotel’s timeless charm crafts moments of joy that celebrate life’s special occasions, enriching lives one heartfelt gesture at a time. From the welcome cocktail to the perfectly appointed, well-designed guestrooms and suites, this hotel is the definition of easy, luxury accommodations.

Guests will enjoy seeing touches of Hollywood everywhere. Artfully appointed, Hollywood-themed guestrooms boast comfortable and cozy furnishings, plush bedding, and modern amenities, each room offering a tranquil retreat for guests.

Prologue Dining & Drinks, like the hotel, draws on our Southern roots, blending classic flavors with a contemporary flair in a cleverly designed, New Yorkstyled fine dining atmosphere. From locally sourced ingredients to exquisite plating, Prologue presents a culinary journey that celebrates our favorite dishes, allowing Chef Thomas Parker to rise above the ordinary and his team to shine brightly.

Perched high atop the heart of the Town at Trilith is Oliver Twist, a rooftop speakeasy where expert mixologists blend premium spirits with artisanal ingredients to create unforgettable cocktails bursting with

flavor and sophistication. Plus, their sophisticated, upscale pub grub menu awaits anyone looking for a fanciful nosh with their libation!

The Town of Trilith itself truly defies description, exuding an extraordinary sense of excellence everywhere. Whether strolling through the main shopping plaza or enjoying an evening walk through the European-inspired, technologically advanced, and environmentally sustainable estates, the Town at Trilith experience is like no other imaginable. It was as if the whole town was created just for me and my enjoyment.

The town’s diverse culinary landscape promises something for every palate. With a commitment to sustainability and quality, each bite and sip embodies the spirit of community, creativity, and culinary excellence, leaving guests eager to return for another delicious adventure.

Whether visiting for a weekend or making Trilith Guesthouse your home while filming your latest movie, the hotel and town promise a personalized experience curated just for you!

ALL THE SHOPPING:

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ScholarAndScribe.com

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EMPOWERING YOUR COMMUNITY

Introducing Danielle Swatzie

ARTICLE BY JADA GARNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHOCCARA MARCUS @SHOCPHOTO

A Rising Star in the World of Dance

Photo by Shoccara Marcus @shocphoto

In the busy town of Atlanta, Georgia, a dance star is rising to prominence. Danielle Swatzie, a dynamic performer from the South, has consistently wowed the world of dance with her outstanding talent. Danielle’s rise from DeKalb School of the Arts to the stages of prominent theaters has been nothing less than spectacular, earning her a spot on Dance Magazine’s top 25 to watch list.

Danielle, born and raised in Atlanta, had a strong desire to dance from an early age. Her stay at DeKalb School of the Arts fueled her passion for artistic expression. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance from The University of the Arts, where her ability blossomed, and her unique vision began to emerge. Danielle’s expertise includes dance, choreography, directing, and producing. Her work has been recognized by experts in the field, and her brief film “META” won the highly regarded BronzeLens Film Festival Award for Best Music and Dance Film in 2021. Danielle’s film “META” and choreographic work, including “growing roots through concrete,” which debuted in 2020, solidified her status as a dance innovator, earning her an Official Selection at ADF’s Movies by Movers in 2023 and an Honorable Mention at the Jacksonville Dance-Film Festival in 2021. Danielle’s talents transcend the stage and screen, as she enthusiastically offers her expertise with the coming generations of artists.

Danielle’s devotion to mentorship and learning equals her dedication to her skill, shown through work with esteemed institutions such as Spelman College and The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, alongside her role as Assistant Choreographer in prominent theater, TV, and film projects. Danielle’s upcoming project, “eyes are portals to the soul,” focuses on love, belonging, and gender, with influence from bell hooks, demonstrating her commitment to art for social and personal development. We eagerly await Danielle’s next chapters and projects, which remind us of art’s ability to inspire and illuminate. She’s not only a blossoming dancing star, but also a source of inspiration for everyone.

For more, visit DanielleSwatzie.com

Photo by Shoccara Marcus @shocphoto

ARTICLE BY PATRICK T. COOPER

A Bold New Way to Cruise

Join Me on a Virgin Voyage

BON VOYAGE!

To Sir Richard Branson and the entire team aboard Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady, I bid you kudos, well done and farewell.

Now that I’ve got the formalities out of the way, when I tell you I had the time of my life on this cruise, the cliché would be an understatement. I love children but this passage is an exclusively adult excursion, and if truth be told, the adults often reveled in childlike behaviors! Scarlet Lady, which is inspired by superyacht design, is in the class of Virgin Voyages’ first fleet of “Lady Ships.” Similar figures appeared on the earliest airplanes for

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady

Virgin Atlantic and now, as the flagship for the company’s cruise line, Scarlet Lady bears the iconic mermaid image. She reflects a powerful spirit guide, showing the world what it’s like to set sail the Virgin Way!

BOARDING DAY

They had me at hello with breakfast all day. I can eat an egg white omelet filled with ham and cheese any time of day or night. The fact that I bumped into a breakfast bar upon boarding made this an instant love affair. I was drooling and now your mouth is watering too. Unlike other brands, The Galley food hall is a mix of more than eight uniquely designed and dedicated food stations, one of which offers champagne any time of day. Perhaps you too will fall in love with the 24-hour American diner—I was forewarned by a dear friend that I was in store for a blast. Heed my warning as well, this cruise experience is like no other, and you will be planning your next voyage before disembarkation.

BUBBLES AT SEA

A cast away like no other. What makes this experience? Different starts with the bottomless bubbles toast, which kicked off our cruise: Virgin Voyages’ Irresistible Med itinerary. To see adults clamor for the champagne, running back and forth for countless glasses of bubbly made for a tipsy festive environment. Loosened up and ready to mingle with individuals from around the globe creates opportunity to make new friends and an easy exchange of social media handles. We danced out of Barcelona’s port in luxury.

BOLD FLAVORS & CUISINE

To be completely honest and transparent, I didn’t partake in all of the dining experiences aboard Scarlet Lady. I guess that means I will have to return soon. However, my faves by far were Gunbae and Extra Virgin. There are a plethora of elegantly appointed dining options, but in the interest of a

CONTINUED >

quick read to inspire you, I will opt for expanding on these two:

Gunbae’s communal Korean cuisine escape will have you intoxicated beyond the complimentary round of soju. Loud, fun and engaging, complete with a drinking game, you are swept into communicating with fellow sailors to savor the preparation of proteins on specially engineered flameless grills.

Extra Virgin’s bread delivery was the beginning of an unforgettable dining experience. The charcuterie, followed with a medley of deliciousness, included splashes of honey to spark your palette with more to come. The ship’s trattoria is a destination for regionally inspired, handcrafted pasta, deeply rooted in Italian culinary traditions. The cozy escape aboard Scarlet Lady is a beacon of romance as the architectural elements lure you into softness and splendor while coasting along the Mediterranean.

BOUNDARIES BEYOND BARCELONA

The three irresistible country destinations included France, Italy, and Spain! How can one go wrong? I was eager to board this 7-night Mediterranean excursion. From the Rockstar priority boarding to the independent booking of cuisine and dining experiences, this cruise experience is unrivaled. The Virgin Voyages app makes cruising uncomplicated, and paired with basic Wi-Fi, makes for seamless communication with travel companions.

I won’t bore you with things that you can Google. Instead, I will indulge in talking about the ice cream and tattoo parlor aboard. In a unique move for the hospitality industry, Virgin Voyages’ crew are allowed to have visible tattoos. I applaud this burst beyond the boundaries that allows individual expression and the “come as you are” culture of Virgin. Virgin celebrates inclusivity with action.

While I wasn’t bold enough to paint my body, I did pick up a few pounds from the fresh, hand-scooped gelato station located on Deck 7. My dad always told me that any day could be made better with ice cream, so this was a daily chore, sometimes twice in my travel itinerary. I won’t brag anymore about the adult comedy, shows, and onboard entertainment. This is a new dawn in cruise hospitality! Virgin is in a fleet of their own! Every voyage includes dining at 20+ eateries, all gratuities covered,

free Wi-Fi, essential drinks and unlimited group fitness classes all covered in the voyage fare.

High energy moments and relaxation make for the perfect reset. From the epic Scarlet Night party to nights in Ibiza, this investment grants a royal return. A promise for a good time is guaranteed. So #BeEncouraged and sail with Virgin Voyages!

Patrick T. Cooper is the Creative Director at SoFu Lifestyle.

I applaud this burst beyond the boundaries that allows individual expression and the “come as you are” culture of Virgin. Virgin celebrates inclusivity with action.

Gunbae

City of South Fulton Presented the Inaugural Impact South Fulton Awards

The City of South Fulton held the inaugural Impact South Fulton Awards late last year. It was a prestigious event to honor and celebrate individuals and organizations that have made substantial contributions to the local economy. This exclusive banquet took place at the stunning new Crestwood Events and Conference Center, in the heart of the City of South Fulton.

The evening was an unforgettable experience, providing a platform for industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and government officials to come together and recognize the exceptional achievements that have shaped the community. Tracye Hutchins, esteemed news anchor for Atlanta News First, was the evening's host, guiding guests through an inspiring program.

The Impact South Fulton Awards was honored to welcome Anna Roach, the CEO of the Atlanta Regional Commission, as the distinguished keynote speaker. Roach's vision to create One Great Region aligns with the mission of the awards—to foster thriving communities within the Atlanta region through collaborative, data-informed planning and investments.

Artie Jones III, MPA, CPM, the Economic Development Director of The City of South Fulton, shares his thoughts on the significance of the Impact South Fulton Awards.

"The South Fulton Impact Awards is a prestigious event honoring local organizations that contribute to the economic prosperity of The City of South Fulton. It is crucial for the community to understand that economic development is chess, not checkers, requiring careful planning and thoughtful decision-making. Every decision made today will have a lasting impact on future generations. It is crucial for our leaders and community to make wise choices that will create a positive outcome."

This historic event was an evening of inspiration, recognition, and community building.

AND FIND YOUR PEACE GET LOST

Exploring The Lost Pines Resort and Spa

Just on the outskirts of Austin, nestled on 400 acres of luscious and sprawling countryside, this fun-filled resort does not disappoint. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is a family-friendly destination that offers an array of activities for all ages to enjoy.

Guests are transported to a simpler time where both adults and kids can be seen casually riding bicycles around the property or strolling along the Colorado River that hugs the resort. Open areas with yard games, outdoor game tables, sports courts and a mini golf course invite families to engage in activities that allow for quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.

Choose between an adventurous getaway or a serene escape, as Lost Pines Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more. Cool off poolside at one of the many pools, or float on the 1,000-foot lazy river. The expansive, 18-hole, 7,200 yard golf course designed by award-winning architect Arthur Hills, allows

“The views are breathtaking , and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation.”

golfers to enjoy the natural beauty of this championship course.

A Texas ranch-style resort wouldn’t be complete without animals. Visit the Lost Pines corral for daily meet and greets with longhorns, miniature ponies, miniature donkeys, goats, alpacas and pigs. Families can enjoy nightly movies on the outdoor movie screen. Scheduled kids activities are available day and evening throughout your stay. The expansive grounds allow guests to spend time exploring the activities on the property.

The resort offers a variety of dining experiences for the culinary enthusiast including six different on-site restaurants, each offering unique bites and beverages. Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Stories, where all food is sourced from local purveyors. They also offer an expansive selection of wines, scotch, and mixed drinks. For a unique dining experience, visit the renowned, exclusive 10-seat omakase, Sushi By Scratch, with Chef Philip Frankland Lee. This menu-free establishment boasts a private and unexpected experience that is sure to please. Advanced reservations are required and encouraged as dining spots fill up quickly. For a more casual dining experience, visit one of the other four on-site restaurants including Maverick’s Roadhouse, buffet style dining at Heartwood House, light bites enjoyed poolside at Old Buck’s Place or eat alfresco at Maude’s Bar and Terrace. After a day of making memories, retreat to the newly remodeled and spacious rooms and suites. The views are breathtaking, and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation.

The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is the perfect vacation destination to recharge regardless of what stage of life you are in. For more information visit LostPinesResortandSpa.com

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Now is a perfect time to start your chemical peel process for the year!

A New Twist on Dating

KATRINA T'MARIE CURTIS

AND NO MORE BOYFRIENDS

Katrina T’Marie Curtis is a coach and influencer who founded the #NoMoreBoyfriends movement, which holds both women and men accountable for the dating situation. She imparts traditional values with a modern twist. She is also the author of the book No More Boyfriends. This is how she became a dating coach.

No More Boyfriends started off as a journal to herself after a failed relationship that lasted 2 years but did not end in marriage. After yet another failed relationship, she decided to journal things that she could have done differently. She knew she was not the only woman who has made a boyfriend her “husband.”

“I began to realize what I was writing for me could help other women and thus… No More Boyfriends was birthed…a guide to help women navigate the dating pool.”

“Now it’s true that the dating pool is full of many delusional, entitled, damaged people who don’t think there’s anything wrong with how they act with no sense of accountability and way too much audacity. With that being said, it’s YOUR choice on who you decide to entertain,” says Curtis.

Here’s her list of tips on how:

1) Know what you want BEFORE you go outside. When you know what you want, you won’t entertain what you don’t.

2) Take your time! I know it feels like it’s scarce outside and when you find someone that seems to fit, you want to lock in quick. Enjoy the journey from dating to the relationship, making sure you see all the exits in case you need to get off!

3) Be intentional. Vet. Vet. Oh… and did I say VET?

4) Trust your gut. If something feels off, it normally is. Don’t let lightning have to strike you to get it!

5) Ask a friend/match service; having someone to connect you with someone has often led to successful relationships. Mutual friends can vouch for your character which can help build trust and credibility with the person you’re meeting.

For more with SoFu’s own relationship expert T’Marie: IG @katrinatmarie and @loveandlifestylemag Love & Lifestyle magazine is dedicated to celebrating love, relationships, and lifestyle with inspiration, advice, and various facets that contribute to a fulfilling life.