Skip to main content

SOFU, GA May 2026

Page 1

INTRODUCING

Mayor Camille Lowe of Chattahoochee Hills

M AY 2 02 6


Future Healthcare Heroes Start Here. AIM STEMM School Is Now Enrolling Rising 6th Graders for Fall 2026!

Accelerated STEMM Curriculum & Pathways

Simulation Labs & Work-Based Learning

Rigorous curriculum created and designed by medical professionals that position kids for success after graduation.

Practice in professional medical simulation labs. Learn from working healthcare professionals.

Hands on learning

Gain hands-on experience in Atlanta’s top medical facilities

Career connected mentorship Customized learning plans

Gain clinic experience in high school Paid internships and part-time positions available to students

Dual Enrollment & Certifications. Accelerated Career Diploma Graduate with college credits and career certification. Save thousands on college tuition Enter the workforce earning $40,000+ immediately after graduation Position yourself for career advancement

From Middle School to Medical School. APPLY NOW!

aimgeorgia.org | info@AIMGeorgia.org | 678-227-0640


LIFESTYLE LETTER

Thinking About Motherhood

May 2026 PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com

Hey SoFu, I’m reading Kin by my favorite author Tayari Jones and I’m thinking about the ways the best friend characters become like sisters. I’m also thinking about how the protagonist’s aunt is thrust unwillingly into motherhood. There are lots of ways to mother. And lots of paths to get there. I’m thinking about how my son sang a solo in the school play and nothing in the store, even my favorite local gift shop Heart2Home gifts, can make my heart feel as full. Being AJ’s mom IS the gift! (Don’t tell him.) And I truly owe my own mother because I had no idea what she went through. (How do y’all survive the teenage stage? AJ thinks I’m going to let him DRIVE with me in the car!) Some of the women we honor here are moms and grandmothers. Those we honor in this issue may or may not be moms. They are sisters, daughters, godmothers, aunts and pillars in our eight cities. Mayor Camille Lowe, Kathy Booker, Kristy Beam and Elouise Miller, we honor you! This is the month when we honor all women in SoFu! Take a moment to appreciate the women in your life this month. Give them their flowers! ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL, EDITOR @ S O U T H F U LT O N L I F E S T Y L E

AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Kevin Giles | kevin.giles@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sue G. Collins, Tiffany C. Dilliard, Shandra Hill Smith C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Bob Mackey, Greg Mooney, Braxton Smith, Aric Thompson

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz

Photo description: AJ Mitchell as the Wolf in "Into the Woods" with his grandma Teresa Fuller Searles

CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 SOFU Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the South Fulton area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/SOFU

4

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

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in SOFU Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.


I F YO U A R E READING THIS... S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OU T OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH SOUTH FULTON CITY LIFESTYLE™ CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/SOFU

Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of. Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you? Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an intro.

Markets available nationwide. Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

5


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

18 22

30

Featured

18 22 30

6

BronzeLens SuperStars Weekend

Star Power, Inspiration, and Expanded August Programming!

Shop for Mom Locally or Online! Gifts for Any SoFu Mom

Chattahoochee Hills Mayor Camille Lowe A Path to Service

On the Cover

Departments

Mayor Camille Lowe is the new mayor of Chattahoochee Hills. SoFu Lifestyle caught up with her in one of her favorite parks! It's a pleasure to showcase women that are breaking ceilings in our communities!

4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Business Monthly

10

Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE

12

Locals Only LIFE + CULTURE

16

Hometown Hero LIFE + CULTURE

18

Back Stage ENTERTAINMENT

22

Trend Setter SHOPPING

26

Fashion Forward LIFE + CULTURE

30

Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE

34

Travel Journal TRAVEL

Photography: Bob Mackey


OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Dr. Dawn Has Your Back! Chiropraccc Care Auto Accidents Slip & Falls Back Pain Neck Pain Wellness Care Walk-ins Welcomed

(404) 629-9999 4 GEORGIA LOCATIONS

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

7


M AY 2 0 2 6

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

Twenty Pearls Foundation Presented the Golden Years Senior Fair The Twenty Pearls Foundation proudly presented the Golden Years Senior Fair, bringing vital services, joy, and renewed hope to seniors and families in East Point. Hosted by Fox 5’s Alex Whittler, the event welcomed more than 230 residents for health screenings, resources, and community support. Grady Health System, along with the Grady Mobile Mammogram Bus, provided essential care, and community partners included the Salvation Army, Arden’s Garden, Publix, and Zubi’s Tacos. Learn more at The20PearlsFoundation.org.

Biggest DreamHack Festival Ever Is Coming to Georgia May 15–17 DreamHack Atlanta, part of ESL FACEIT Group, will return to Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. DreamHack Atlanta 2026 will mark a pivotal moment in the video game and esports industry in Georgia. DreamHack Atlanta will serve as host for a Call of Duty League® Major for the very first time. This festival will be DreamHack’s only event in the U.S. in 2026, and it will mark its eighth year in Atlanta. Tickets at DreamHack.com.

Alliance Theatre 2026/2027 Season Atlanta’s nationally acclaimed Alliance Theatre, Jennings Hertz Artistic Directors Tinashe Kajese-Bolden and Christopher Moses, and Managing Director Brandon Kahn, are pleased to announce 12 productions on three stages including five world premieres, four musicals and more. Highlights include world premiere musical “Alice in Neverland,” the Tony Award-winning and Pulitzer Prize-winning play, “Purpose,” hit Tony-nominated play “John Proctor is the Villian,” a world premiere adaptation of “Winnie the Pooh,” and the world premiere of the musical “Like Father.”

Photography by Greg Mooney

Scan to read more

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / S O F U

8

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY


ARTICLE BY DR. MELINDA MILLER-THRASHER AND ALEXIS THRASHER

ELOUISE MILLER 106 AMAZING BIRTHDAYS!

10

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

In Calhoun County, South Carolina, Elouise Miller was born Elouise McPherson on April 30, 1920, one of 13 children. Woodrow Wilson was president of the United States at the time. Elouise was born of the union between Ben McPherson and Rebecca Darby at a time when having many children meant more hands to tend to sharecropping the land. Elouise recalls walking miles to attend a one-room schoolhouse which she thoroughly enjoyed, even though it was overcrowded. Like many of her contemporaries vying to escape the harsh realities of life in the south, she migrated up north with her sisters, Frizella, Willie Mae, and Anna Julia, eventually landing in Harlem, New York, where she met and married Walter Miller. Elouise worked tirelessly as a domestic worker for individual families and in department stores to meet the needs of her family of seven children. Although she was never able to obtain more than an 8th grade education, she was an avid educator of her children, always stressing the importance of education and placing high expectations on them. This resulted in two medical doctors, two PhDs, and an award-winning pianist known as the Harlem Maestro along with entrepreneurs and social worker/therapists. When Elouise is asked what she attributes her longevity to she says eating apples and hard work. And more than anything else, she says, having seven children and relationships with her grandchildren and great grandchildren give her continued purpose. Their daily engagement with her keeps her sharp, focused, and determined to stay strong. Happy Birthday Mrs. Elouise Miller!


FOREST LAWN

FUNERAL HOME & MEMORIAL GARDENS

LOVE YOUR LOVED ONES

WHILE YOU’RE STILL HERE. ---- PLAN A MEANINGFUL MEMORIAL THE FINAL ACT OF TRUE LOVE IS TO HONOR THOSE WE’VE LEFT BEHIND. Start planning your final arrangements now and save your loved ones from making critical decisions while grieving and paying future cost.

Contact us today for more information

on how your love today will impact your loved ones in the future.

SCHEDULE A CONSULT TODAY! FOUR CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU. FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME 5755 MALLORY ROAD COLLEGE PARK, GA 30349

770-892-2808

SHERWOOD MEMORIAL PARK & MAUSOLEUM 6841 TARA BLVD JONESBORO, GA 30236

770-478-5001

FORESTLAWNFUNERALHOMEMG.COM

KENNEDY MEMORIAL GARDENS 2900 RIVER ROAD ELLENWOOD, GA. 30294

404-243-8900

TARA GARDEN CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME 681 NORTH AVE. JONESBORO, GA 30236

770-471-7171

Please contact us for monthly cost saving incentives.


ARTICLE BY TIFFANY C. DILLARD

P ho

DR. KRISTY BEAM

Reimagining What Opportunity Looks Like for Atlanta Students 12

to by Aric Thompson

Dr. Kristy Beam has spent her entire career doing the thing most people only talk about: closing gaps, opening doors, and building systems that actually work for students who have been overlooked, underestimated, and underserved. Now, with the Academy for Innovation in Medicine, she is changing what is possible for an entire generation of young people who deserve to see their future clearly before they are ever asked to choose it. AIM is a tuition-free public charter school where students begin exploring healthcare careers as early as 6th grade. It is built on a belief Dr. Beam has carried throughout every chapter of her career: Talent is universal, but opportunity and access are not. In the following conversation, Dr. Beam explains AIM’s mission and how it transforms opportunities for Atlanta students.

FOR READERS WHO MAY NOT YET BE FAMILIAR WITH AIM, CAN YOU DESCRIBE IT IN YOUR OWN WORDS?

AIM is a tuition-free public charter school where students begin exploring healthcare careers as early as 6th grade, fostering early interest and skills.

LOCA LS ON LY | L I FE + C U LT U RE


AIM IS PARTNERING WITH GRADY HEALTH SYSTEM. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR YOUR STUDENTS?

It means our students are not just learning about healthcare; they are actively participating in it. For example, a 6th grader can sit with a Grady health leader and start a mentorship that grows each year. By 9th grade, students shadow professionals on clinical floors, and by 11th grade, they work alongside those same mentors, gaining real-world experience and building confidence in healthcare careers.

WHAT DO YOU WANT STUDENTS TO FEEL AND KNOW ABOUT THEMSELVES BY THE TIME THEY GRADUATE?

By the time our students graduate, I want them to feel unstoppable. Not because someone told them they could do it, but because they have already done it. They have walked hospital floors, built relationships with healthcare professionals, and developed real skills in real environments. They are not leaving us hoping for a future in healthcare. They are leaving us already inside of it.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ADVICE YOU WOULD OFFER YOUNG WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO LEAD?

Find the women who will tell you the truth, push you further than you think you can go, and pour into you without hesitation. Those relationships will shape you in ways no title or credential ever could. Furthermore, do not wait for permission to lead. Start where you are. Leadership is not about what is on your business card. It is about what you create for the people around you, and that work is always worth doing, even when it feels uncertain. AIM is currently enrolling 6th and 9th grade students for the fall. Contact Info: Website: https://www.aimgeorgia.org Instagram: ht t p s://w w w.in st a g ra m .com / aim_georgia/ Face b o o k : h t t p s : // w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / profile.php?id=61572960310055 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/ academy-for-innovation-in-medicine/

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

13


WELCOME TO

GRADY SOUTH

More than a hospital, it’s a commitment to expanding care, strengthening communities, and shaping the future of healthcare across South Fulton County. Grady South is opening in phases, beginning with the freestanding emergency department in June 2026, with continued expansion through January 2031. This new medical center campus is designed to bring care closer to home with a freestanding emergency department, a medical office building, and a future hospital all part of the plan. This is about more access, more services, and a stronger, healthier community. It’s how Grady continues to grow with the people we serve today and for generations.

gradyhealth.org


Don’t you want the best representation? If you’ve been involved in: CAR ACCIDENTS SLIP AND FALLS TRUCKING ACCIDENTS DOG BITES CONSTRUCTION DEFECTS WRONGFUL DEATH

Experience Fierce and Fearless Representation at KP Law Group.

Call KP Law for a FREE Consultation Today!

THEKPLAWGROUP.COM / 404.551.4727 / 171 17th St NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30363


K AT H Y Booker

TA K I N G T H E H E L M A S I N T E R I M P R E S I D E N T A N D C E O O F G R E AT E R S O U T H F U LTO N C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

16

H OM E TOWN H E R O | L I FE CU LT U RE

Kathy Booker doesn’t talk about leadership in theory. She talks about it in terms of people, pressure, and real decisions. A Southwest Atlanta native and nearly 30-year presence in South Fulton County, Booker has built her career working closely with the community she now helps lead. Her recent appointment as Interim President and CEO of the Greater South Fulton Chamber of Commerce marks a new chapter—but it’s a natural progression of the work she’s been doing for decades. Before stepping into this role, Booker spent 10 years as a District Representative for the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, followed by 16 years leading Marvelous Light Empowerment Association. Through its Woman University program, she worked directly with women building businesses, managing finances, and navigating major life decisions. “I’ve always been focused on helping people move forward,” Booker says. “Not just with ideas, but with clear steps.” That same approach carries into her work as Managing Partner of BestieFinder, where she focuses on faith-based personal development and financial education. As a certified Gift Coach, she helps individuals and teams understand what drives their decisions—especially under pressure. “It’s one thing to have a plan,” she shares. “But it’s something deeper—something transformational—to understand the why behind your choices. Because until you do, you’re not truly leading your life… you’re simply following patterns.” That focus on clarity is central to her leadership style. Whether working with entrepreneurs, ministry leaders, or corporate teams, Booker is known for cutting through noise and helping people focus on what matters most. Now, at the Chamber, her priorities are practical: strengthen local businesses, build stronger partnerships, and create steady opportunities for growth across South Fulton County. Her leadership reflects the same pattern seen throughout her career—consistent, community-centered, and focused on long-term impact. “I’ve been part of this community for a long time,” Booker shares. “And this isn’t just about building something—it’s about creating something meaningful, something that makes a real impact and stands the test of time.”


MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

17


BRONZELENS SUPERSTARS Weekend Kicks Off 2026 Festival Season

S TA R P O W E R , I N S P I R AT I O N , A N D E X PA N D E D A U G U S T P R O G R A M M I N G !

Honorees Tamara Tunie, Clifton Davis, Jasmine Burke, and Jeresa Featherstone-Winfield Deliver Powerful Messages of Purpose, Legacy, and Excellence BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia, proudly launched its 2026 season with an unforgettable BronzeLens SuperStars Weekend, featuring a dynamic series of curated events celebrating Black excellence in film, television, and the creative arts. The weekend honored trailblazing talent while paying tribute to CBS’s groundbreaking daytime drama “Beyond the Gates,” drawing an impressive gathering of industry leaders, creatives, and supporters. BronzeLens opened SuperStars Weekend at Spelman College with Reel Power, a candid conversation with four Black women shaping film and television. The afternoon blended inspiration and hard-earned wisdom with a behind-thescenes look at the industry, all with a touch of humor, according to SoFu Lifestyle writer Gabrielle Latimore, who attended the Friday panel.

18

B ACK STAGE | ENTERTAI N ME N T


Honorees from “Beyond the Gates”

Durrett, Robert Riley, Mike Manning, Sean Freeman, Jibre Hordges, Alex Alegria, Maurice P. Kerry, Jon Lindstrom, and Lami Friebe—the group engaged in meaningful dialogue about purpose, perseverance, and success in the entertainment industry. Media personality and Producer Ray Cornelius served as moderator. BronzeLens Expands 2026 Festival Programming Building on the momentum of SuperStars Weekend, BronzeLens announced expanded festival dates for August 2026. The festival will now take place over two weekends: August 21–23 and August 27–30, 2026, offering an even broader slate of programming, screenings, and special events.

On Saturday, March 7, the spotlight shifted to the prestigious BronzeLens Women SuperStars Honors at the Rialto Center for the Arts. The evening featured a powerful “In Conversation” with “Beyond the Gates” cast and production team members, including Legendary SuperStar honoree Tamara Tunie, Visionary SuperStar honoree Jasmine Burke, and Behind the Lens SuperStar honoree Jeresa Featherstone-Winfield. Moderated by acclaimed filmmaker and 2018 BronzeLens Women SuperStar Ayoka Chenzira, the discussion offered an intimate look at career trajectories, creative resilience, and the pursuit of personal balance. The evening attracted a distinguished audience, including our own Saycon Sengbloh—who delivered a stirring live performance— and Andre Dickens, alongside a host of “Beyond the Gates” cast members and notable guests, all arriving in striking, elevated style. The weekend concluded on Sunday, March 8, with the highly anticipated Sunday Brunch with the Brothers, a signature gathering celebrating Black male excellence in entertainment. Multi-hyphenate legend Clifton Davis was honored with the Bronze Excellence in Iconic Performance and Ministry Award. Joined by fellow “Beyond the Gates”cast members—including Keith D. Robinson, Timon Kyle

Signature events include: • The BronzeLens Filmmakers Ball (Saturday, August 29): An immersive celebration transforming Atlanta’s City Hall into a vibrant hub for networking, music, dancing, and dining. • Cinema and Social Justice Sunday: Hosted at the Tara Theatre, this powerful program honors Atlanta’s legacy by spotlighting films and conversations centered on social justice, human rights, and civil rights. • The BronzeLens Awards: Held at the Ray Charles Performing Arts Center at Morehouse College, the awards recognize the festival’s top films across categories, including Narrative, Features, Documentaries, Shorts, Students, Music Videos, and acting honors.

ABOUT BRONZELENS FILM FESTIVAL

The BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia, is a nonprofit organization founded in 2009 with a mission to bring national and global attention to Atlanta as a premier hub for film and content creation by people of color. Through film screenings, workshops, and networking opportunities, BronzeLens is committed to cultivating the next generation of filmmakers. The festival is also an Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences qualifying festival for the Short Film Awards category with its Best Short Award winner eligible for consideration in the Academy’s Short Subject competition. For more information regarding the BronzeLens Film Festival, visit BronzeLens.com. MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

19


OVER 100 YEARS

of

PLUMBING EXPERTISE

SERVICES WE OFFER headsplumbing.com

20

Water Line Replacements Tankless Water Heaters Trenchless Pipe Repair

Water Filtration Systems Septic System Solutions Camera Inspections

404.696.3175


START GROWING OPPORTUNITIES WITH YOUR BUSINESS TODAY!

MEMBERSHIPS START AT ONLY $29/MONTH Subscribe to our newsletter for monthly updates! Join us every Tuesday for Tuesday Talks every Tue at 8:30am

Committees Arts

Finance

Marketing

Community

Health

Real Estate

Education

Global

& so much more

877-964-6222

atlantablackchambers.org

info@atlantablackchambers.org

JOIN US! GSFCC Events CHAMBER 101 FIRST FRIDAYS

GSFCC Events 2SDAY CONNECTS TUESDAYS @ 2PM

4TH TUESDAYS Starting April 28

TASTE THE TOWN

TIME

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

GSFCC RESTAURANT CRAWL NETWORKING WITH

EXPLORE CALENDAR

Flavor!

GSFCHAMBER.COM

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

21


ARTICLE BY ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL

1

GIFTS FOR A N Y SOFU MOM Whether you want to shower your friend, spouse, or your own mom, there's something here for everyone! Order online or visit our favorite local gift boutique Heart2Home.

22

T R E N D SE T T E R | SHO P P IN G


2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

1. ANY MOM Living Good Candle Co. Rose Gulora is warm and elegant, offering a modern take on a classic floral candle scent that feels special without being overpowering. No toxins, no heavy fragrance, just warmth that feels good. Each candle is handpoured in Houston using 100% beeswax, eco-friendly wicks, and clean fragrance blends. LGcandle.com $40 | 2. THE CRAFTY MOM POSCA Colored Pencils offer vivid color and creative versatility in a premium yet accessible format. Target.com, Amazon.com and at unibrands.co. | 3. NEW MOMS A baby blanket makes an exceptional gift for new parents like my cousin in Fairburn and her hubby! Baby will be wrapped in luxury with this beautifully crafted cotton blanket, perfect for the crib, carriage, or as a cherished keepsake. FeltmanBrothers.com $76.95 | 4. ANY THIRSTY MOM SWIG Full Bloom Travel Mug 22 oz Heart2HomeGifts.com (Local) $42.95 | 5. FOR THE SINGLE WOMAN OR SOLO MOM The Best Friend - Zip up your dress completely on your own! Carine Vinett is a media dynamo and inventor with over 15 years experience. Upon struggling to zip up the back of her dress each morning before work, she came up with the idea to create The Best Friend and the rest is fashion history. Editor’s Note: I’m a widow and this one is a gamechanger! BestFriendZip.com $29.99 | 6. THE PRAYING GRANDMA Emdaco Cream Prayer Shrobe Heart2HomeGifts.com (Local) $58.00 | 7. MOMS OF TODDLERS BubbleBum TelePort is the world’s first hard-shell, everyday backless booster seat built for travel and safety. Designed for kids 40–110 lbs. Amazon.com $62.99 | 8. TIRED MOM OR TRAVELLING MOM Manta SILK MaskMom will experience deeper, more restorative rest. Luxe Manta SILK Mask comes with a carrying case and earplugs. Room for your lashes! Amazon.com $75 | 9. THE MOM WITH A SWEET TOOTH Chocolate Gift Basket Treat yourself! Sugar-Plum.com $59.95 | 10. THE TRENDY MOM Canvas Style Charm Bar Block Letter in Shiny Gold Heart2HomeGifts.com (Local) $10 MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

23


IT’S NOT COOL TO BE HOT!

CALL US TODAY!

770-210-HVAC ESSENTIALHEATANDAIR.COM

Helping Small Businesses Grow As a boutique commercial loan brokerage, we specialize in helping small to medium-sized businesses and real estate investors secure the financing necessary to start, grow, and sustain their businesses and portfolios. With over 25 years of experience in financial services, we have built strong relationships with lenders both locally and across the U.S. This extensive network allows us to connect our clients with the right financing solutions to help their businesses grow and succeed. We take a consultative approach to learning about your business and tailoring a lending solution to fit your specific needs. Conventional | SBA Loans | Private Money Loans

Call us today to explore your financing options!

Funds can be used for a variety of purposes, including but not limited to working capital, equipment, real estate, and business acquisitions.

Glenda Walker

O: 470-589-5105 M: 470-485-4009

www.rmsifundings.com info@rmsifundings.com

24


MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

25


ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

BECKY HILLYARD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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

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

26

FASH ION F OR WA R D | L IF E + CU LT U RE

Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection


Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection

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

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

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

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

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED? A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE? A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.” — Becky Hillyard

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

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

27


E

IC

CE OF

CO

NG

BR ATI LE

-OP S E RV

As a not-for-profit co-op, GreyStone Power has some of the lowest energy prices in the country. Our members pay 22% less than customers of the local for-profit power company. Your affordable power is also incredibly reliable, with a reliability rating of over 99% for 2025. You’ll see us out in the community, trimming trees and upgrading power lines to make sure you can count on your power when you need it.

WE’RE KIND TO OUR MEMBERS, AS WELL AS THEIR WALLETS.

Making Life Better

GreyStonePower.com

GreyStone Power is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

Renowned as the fastest-growing City in Georgia and the 4th fastest-growing suburb in the Nation, Union City combines the charm of an intimate community with the cultural, educational, and economic prowess of a large metropolis. Nestled just minutes from the world's busiest airport, Union City stands proud as the residence of influential brands like Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED, ASOS, Amazon, Merecedes-Benz, Walmart E-Commerce, and Atlanta Metro Studios. Experience the fusion of business and lifestyle Reclaim, Renew, and Reimagine your future in Union City.

­

28


Care with You in Mind. Suffering with symptoms from menopause?

Call Prestige Healthcare. Let us help! www.prestigehealthcareatlanta.com 404.346.7100 5835 Campbellton Rd. SW Ste 301-302, Atlanta, Georgia 30331

Support You Can Count On, At A Price You Understand No confusing pricing structures or unexpected add-ons. Just

dependable, relationship-based support from someone who truly relates—at a rate that stays steady from day one. Call us today! Scan for More Info!

404-793-0677

SHSAtlantaSouthwest.com info@shsatlantasouthwest.com

Taking Atlanta to the Next Level Business | Commercial | Personal | Mortgage htb.com

Member FDIC

Equal Housing Lender

260327-1445829931

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

29


Meet Chattahoochee Hills Mayor Camille Lowe

A PATH TO SERVICE ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOB MACKEY

Camille Lowe instinctively turns her face to the sun when it finally comes out. Sitting on a fence post at Hutcheson Ferry Park in Chattahoochee Hills, she points out the 3 miles of trails that wind through the hilly 103-acre park, one of eight public outdoor spaces she helps manage as the Mayor of the City of Chattahoochee. With over 37,000 acres of farmland, preserved greenspace, and large residential lots, the city also boasts the state’s first scenic byway, and seven public parks and facilities on 1,200 acres of preserved parklands with access to the Chattahoochee River. Few communities can offer this kind of connection to nature, where residents and visitors can enjoy walking, reflection, learning and time outdoors with family. It’s no wonder Camille chose to make Chatt Hills her home in 2014. “I first came to Chatt Hills in 2014 while looking for a place with nature in mind,” she says. “I lived in California right out of college, and when I came home to Georgia, it felt different. The beautiful character of some of the small towns was beginning to change, and I noticed that some areas were very quick to pave over most of their landscape.

30

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

I needed to be near Atlanta for my work and not as far south as my hometown of Macon, and Chatt Hills made perfect sense.” Since then, Camille settled in Serenbe, ran successfully for a City Council seat, and was elected Mayor (the city’s first female in the role) in 2025. Her day job as territory account manager for a biopharmaceutical company takes her through other rural communities throughout the state so she recognizes how unique her hometown is in many ways. “I wasn’t familiar with any other place in Georgia that was planning to preserve 70% of their land,” says Camille. “This place wanted to try and be different and shoot for a better quality of life. As I spent more time here, I grew to appreciate not just the natural beauty, but the thoughtful vision and the people who care deeply about preserving what makes this place special.” Being surrounded by nature suits her perfectly. Walking with friends on the paths of Serenbe or diving deeper into the miles of park trails, preserving the land and keeping it accessible are priorities, personally and as Mayor.


“My favorite thing to do in Chatt Hills is to be outside. Whether it’s a quiet walk, a conversation with a neighbor, or just taking in the landscape, that’s where I find both connection and peace,” she notes. This month, as we celebrate Mother’s Day and the special women in our lives, Camille remembers her own mom. It’s no surprise her fondest childhood memories include walking through a neighbor’s peach grove with her mom and sister and celebrating the season’s explosion of azaleas.

“Because of that, I often spend Mother’s Day outside, taking in the landscape around me. It’s a quiet moment to reflect, appreciate those memories, and be grateful for the influence she had on my life.” Camille is proud to serve her community and encourages young women to trust their instincts and step up when they see an opportunity to make a difference, explore the community, attend city meetings, and ask questions. “Some of the best perspectives come from simply caring about where you live and being willing to listen and learn. CONTINUED >

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

31


Local government shapes the places we call home, and thoughtful, engaged voices are always needed. Even small steps like volunteering, serving on a board, or participating in community conversations lead to meaningful and lasting impact.” Caring deeply about the place we live makes coming home more meaningful and Camille believes service is the most wholesome expression of belonging. “We will always have differences, but a strong sense of community makes a meaningful difference. I serve because I care and hope for a bright future, one where people feel connected and part of something meaningful. I love Chattahoochee Hills!”

32

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


Proud to Support The Neighborhood As your local State Farm® agent, I’ll be there whenever you need me with Good Neighbor service you can count on. Give me a call. My Daddy says everyone should be treated fairly and like Royalty. He’s here for our local community! Like A Good Neighbor, State Farm is there.

Kevin Pierson,

Local State Farm Agent

www.agentkpierson.com 770.892.1472 B agentkpierson

BETTER SERVICE. BETTER VALUE.

GUIDED INSURANCE LIFE | HOME & AUTO | BOATS & SURETY BONDS RVS & MOTORCYCLES

Trust us to Guide you on your insurance journey. Call me at 678.590.5110 for personalized, no obligation quotes.

Tonya Isles Anderson,

Agency Owner M-F 830am to 530pm Evenings & weekends by appointment guidedinsuranceagency.com O: 678.590.5110 M: 404.426.3072 V guided_insurance info@guidedinsuranceagency.com MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

33


AMELIA ISLAND Unwind at This Georgia-Border Gem

It’s a city that prides itself on being a place where people can “experience the luxury of letting go.” And letting go is exactly what you’ll fall right into while settling in at your home away from home on Amelia Island. This Florida gem, 13 miles long and 2 miles wide, is roughly 6 hours from Atlanta—20 minutes from the Georgia border and a half-hour from Jacksonville, Florida. It features breathtaking beauty, offering scenes of nature, a Victorian seaport village, beaches, and a vibrant downtown. Here, you’ll have no shortage of recreation—from fishing to cruising to biking to skydiving. And if the island is simply a place to unwind, as it is for this traveling writer, that’s certainly fine, too. Naturally, the island will call you to explore. And when you do, you’ll find plenty of dining options within a matter of minutes by foot from downtown. The Hampton Inn & Suites-Amelia Island Historic Harbor Front, in its Victorian style, offers that convenience, located minutes from restaurants and shops, in its relaxing harbor location. Whether it’s seafood, fresh fudge, a scoop of ice cream, or even something to wear, you’ll discover it within a host of eclectic shops. In this birthplace of the modern shrimping industry, getting a taste of shrimp and seafood is a must. Timoti’s Seafood Shak,

in downtown Amelia Island, serves up shrimp, lobster rolls, fish tacos, and more in an atmosphere that includes outdoor dining. Timoti’s serves fresh local, wild-caught seafood from the island. Of course, visiting Amelia Island also means going to the beach. Fernandina Beach delivers both fun in the water and time for curling up with a good book or winding down on the sand. Afterward, it’s a short walk across the street for dinner at Salt Life Food Shack for, among other eats, Lump Crab Spinach Dip, Asian Salmon Salad, and Fried Calamari. For more exploration, especially if taking in history is important to you, hop aboard the Cumberland Coastal Tour with Amelia River Cruise for a laidback sightseeing tour along the shorelines of Amelia Island and Cumberland Island, where John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette married in 1996 at the First African Baptist Church. On this adventure, you’ll want to pay close attention, as you may spot dolphins, sea turtles, and feral horses along the way. Looking to get out and explore or just take it easy? Amelia Island makes both possible, even if you can only settle in for a short stay. And it’s sure to beckon you for more than one return visit. This writer is ready to do it all again!

ARTICLE BY SHANDRA HILL SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAXTON SMITH AND PROVIDED

34

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L


IMAGINE YOUR HOME, Totally Organized!

custom closets | garages | home offices | pantries | laundries | mud rooms | entertainment centers

40% OFF plus Free Installation and Delivery

Our Best Offer Ever: Take an additional 15% OFF Applies to national list price on any order of $1250 or more. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $750 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Expires 05/31/2026

Call for a FREE in-home design consultation.

770-206-7420 LM www.closetsbydesign.com HIRING DESIGNERS IN YOUR AREA CALL TO DISCUSS


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
SOFU, GA May 2026 by City Lifestyle - Issuu