It's a Matter of Style!
Hey #SoFu!
If you guys have been paying attention the past few years, you’ll know that September is my birth month! This one is different, though: it’s a HUGE birthday. As I move into the next phase of my life, I’m honored to take SoFu Lifestyle with me. If you haven’t noticed, we’re taking it up a notch at SFL to give you more curated experiences…curated editorial, curated pics, curated businesses…all for you to have extraordinary engagement with SoFu Lifestyle in print and online. We’re doing a tiny bit of a rebrand, all with you in mind. SoFu is a luxury brand for luxury mindsets, so that’s what we aim to give you!
And just as a reminder, SoFu represents all eight cities in South Fulton County: City of South Fulton, Hapeville, Palmetto, College Park, East Point, Fairburn, Union City, and Chattahoochee Hills. So, if that’s you then this magazine was created specifically for you. Speaking of for you, this month it’s all about fashion…
In this issue, we celebrate the many fashion boutiques in #SoFu and beyond throughout Atlanta! You're sure to find something that captures your sense of style! From clothing to jewelry to accessories, we have you covered this month!
As individuals, we have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together, or forge entirely new paths, becoming trendsetters ourselves. We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or perhaps explore familiar ones. There is so much here in SoFu to uplift our spirits, boost your productivity, and ignite your creativity.
What I’ve found is that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. And that’s something no one on Earth can duplicate.
Here’s to being uniquely you!
MICHELLE TAYLOR WILLIS, PUBLISHER @SOUTHFULTONLIFESTYLE
P.S. Check me out in Lyrics as a part of the Atlanta Black Theater Festival. In 1987, Hip Hop's golden age began. The music has given voice to young men and women battling tribulations through the decade of transformation. For tickets, visit https://Atlantabtf.org
PUBLISHER
Michelle Taylor Willis
michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jasmine Tiffany, Gabrielle Latimore, Ginny Albert
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Suzi & Co, Sara Hanna
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
September 2024 Visit our Instagram
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Renowned as the fastest-growing City in Georgia, Union City combines the charm of an intimate community with the cultural, educational, and economic prowess of a large metropolis.
Renowned as the fastest-growing City in Georgia, 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, Mercedes-Benz, Walmart E-Commerce, and Atlanta Metro Studios.
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, Mercedes-Benz, Walmart E-Commerce, and Atlanta Metro Studios.
Experience the fusion of business and lifestyle - Reclaim, Renew, and Reimagine your future in Union City.
Experience the fusion of business and lifestyle - Reclaim, Renew, and Reimagine your future in Union City.
19TH ANNUAL PINK CULTURED PEARLS COTILLION
ARTICLE BY CARLA WILEY
On Sunday, March 24, 2024, the 19th Annual Pink Cultured Pearls Cotillion introduced 28 young ladies as debutantes. The event took place at the Thomas Murphy Ballroom at the Georgia World Congress Center. It was hosted by the Ivy Community Foundation, Incorporated®️, a 501(c)(3) organization founded by members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®️ Kappa Omega chapter. Over 600 guests were in attendance.
For 7 months, debutantes participated in bonding and educational activities, leadership workshops, community service projects, and cultural events. They raised thousands of dollars, were awarded scholarships, and donated to several metro area charities, including the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The cotillion marked the culmination of their journey.
The debutantes and their escorts gave captivating performances, including music and dance, that left guests spellbound. One parent described the event as “magical.”
Aungelique Procter acted as the Mistress of Ceremony for the occasion, while Marie Wynn was responsible for the program choreography. Billette Owens Ashford served as the Cotillion Chairman, and Kristi Johnson was the Co-Chairman. Also present were Kappa Omega’s President Bridgette Grant and the Ivy Community Foundation President Monica Pearson.
Nadia Benefield, the daughter of Kendric and Tonia Benefield, was crowned 2024 Ms. Pink Cultured Pearls (Mount Paran Christian School). The first attendant was Hannah Bacote (Woodward Academy), the daughter of Samuel and Lisa Bacote (right). The second attendant was Adrienne Durr (Pace Academy), the daughter of Madison and Daneen Durr (left).
KZ Collection NOEL
QUARTZ AND DIAMOND EARRINGS by Sara Hanna @atlphotos
SUNBURST EARRINGS WITH CITRINE AND DIAMONDS by Sara Hanna @atlphotos
GREEN TOURMALINE AND DIAMOND NECKLACE by Sara Hanna @atlphotos
PAVE DIAMOND
SUNBURST NECKLACE by Sara Hanna @atlphotos
INITIAL DIAMOND BANGLE BRACELETS From $1,500 by Sara Hanna @atlphotos
by Suzie & Co IG @suziandcompany
Keisha Noel wants her clients to feel as though they have traveled the world while wearing her jewelry. She designs for women who desire an elegant and trend-driven look. Using semiprecious and natural elements, Keisha’s designs appeal to women with a highly cultivated lifestyle.
“When a woman is wearing my jewelry, I want her to feel like she is a woman of the world who jet sets to exotic locales,” says Keisha.
Born and raised in Chicago, Keisha shares that her earliest memories are of playing in her grandmother’s jewelry box and accessorizing her dolls with her mother’s jewelry. As a child, Keisha saved to purchase jewelry from the many catalogs delivered to her home.
Now an Atlanta resident, Keisha Noel finds inspiration for her jewelry designs from her travels: waters of the Caribbean, snow-capped alps in Switzerland, architecture in Shanghai, or the desert in Cabo San Lucas. The elements of nature inspire her to design.
Under Keisha’s direction all pearls are strung by artisans, uncut diamonds are collected in India and the beads and stones are gathered during her travels. The KZ Noel Collection ushers in a new era of jewelry design.
Prices upon request at Sales@kznoel.com.
Jewelry Photo Credit: Sara Hanna @atlphotos
Photo Credit: Suzie & Co IG @suziandcompany 6560 Roswell Rd Suite 570
Atlanta, Ga 30327
Instagram @kznoel
Photo
FROM
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
TO FASHION MOGUL
MORE THAN A MOTHER: MEET STYLE ICON AND TASTE BOUTIQUE OWNER TERESA CALDWELL
ARTICLE BY JASMINE TIFFANY
Taste Boutique, nestled in Atlanta, is more than just a store; it’s a haven filled with good vibes, carefully curated pieces, and a welcoming atmosphere.
“I wanted to create a good vibe and energy type of space,” says Owner Teresa Caldwell. “I wanted women and men to feel beautiful in their clothes and dress up their lives!”
The boutique’s unique shopping experience, where customers are known by name
“I WANTED TO CREATE A GOOD VIBE AND ENERGY TYPE OF SPACE.”
and treated like family, has left a lasting impression on the community.
“I have conversations with them and get to know them. I wanted to treat them like when I go to LV, Gucci, Prada.”
At the heart of Taste Boutique is Teresa Caldwell, a style icon whose journey from modest beginnings to fashion mogul is nothing short of inspiring. Teresa’s passion for fashion began in her childhood.
“I was always into fashion as a little girl. My body is my canvas. I got to do whatever I want like a doll,” she recalls.
Despite facing hardships, including a period of homelessness, she remained determined.
“Growing up homeless at one point, I had a goal and vision for myself and I did not back away from that,” she says.
Teresa’s dream materialized when she attended fashion week and stocked Taste Boutique with her favorite brands.
“One day, all my dreams came true. I went to fashion week, picked out all my favorite brands and put those brands in my store, pulling from my own store,” she shares.
Her journey also includes being a mother and mentor to her son, Bow Wow.
“My son is a minimalist when it comes to fashion. I can tell when he has something really cool; he will want my
opinion,” Teresa says. Her influence extends beyond fashion, inspiring Bow Wow to become a businessman.
“Seeing my dedication and hard work inspired him to pursue his own ventures in the business world.”
Beyond fashion, Teresa has a rich background in interior design.
“When I first started, I was an interior designer before my son became Lil Bow Wow. I worked for a design firm, and I learned so much from them,” she explains.
Her ability to transform spaces has led her to work on high-profile projects, including homes for athletes and entertainers.
“I did Grady Jarrett’s house, even his mom’s home, right in the middle of the pandemic,” she notes with pride.
Teresa’s influence extends to community empowerment through her brands and personal connections.
“Many women have come forward to say that I have inspired them,” she says. Her boutique is more than just a clothing store; it’s a lifestyle boutique carrying gifts, candles, designer books, and more.
“Retail is hard, but I carry all types of items. Everything is funny, witty, and fits all personality types. Not just a clothing boutique, it’s a lifestyle boutique.”
Looking ahead, Teresa is launching Taste Kurvy, an inclusive line for curvy women.
“I want to be all-inclusive,” she declares. Teresa continues to inspire and transform, showing that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.
The Taste Boutique 1115 Howell Mill Road | P105 Atlanta, GA 30318 thetasteboutique.com
Fall Fashion Guide AND AUTUMN TRENDS
FROM HEART 2 HOME BOUTIQUE
Melange Hoodie Pullover $77.25
My VP Looks Like Me Kamala Harris Coffee Mug $22
It’s beginning to look like fall in #SOFU and here are some tips to usher in a fresh start to the new season that marks the start of homecoming and tailgating time! Pair your favorite t-shirt or sweatshirts with jeans and game day or HBCU accessories. We have a variety of denim styles for ladies and gents, and for the guys, comfy black or grey athleisure are options that can always be paired with the perfect baseball cap or jewelry.
Put all your tailgate gear in a large canvas SOUTH FULTON bag to tote them in style (other cities are also available).
Personalize your fall jewelry with the Luxe Charm Bar, including necklaces and bracelets. Our SOFU soy candles bring a nice touch to any home or dorm (other cities and scents are also available).
Fall also marks election season. Enjoy sipping hot chocolate or tea in a gold foil mug featuring your favorite power women: Kamala Harris, Stacey Abrams, and Michelle Obama.
SHOP LOCAL!
There’s no need to shop outside of South Fulton for the perfect fall fashions and gifts. All products can be purchased at Heart to Home Gifts, 5829 Campbellton
Road, Suite 111, in Atlanta, Georgia. Located in Sandtown Crossing Plaza next to Publix, Heart to Home Gifts can also be shopped online at Heart2HomeGifts.com
Kyra Sleeveless Utility Jumpsuit $98
My VP Looks Like Me Kamala Harris Coffee Mug $22
Stacey Abrams Coffee Mug $24
Forever FLOTUS Michelle Obama Coffee Mug $20
Jewelle Luxe Charm Bar $4-$14
Melange Hoodie Pullover $77.25
Melange Joggers $68.25
South Fulton Tote $54
South Fulton Tote $54
Stacey Abrams Coffee Mug $24
Kyra Sleeveless Utility Jumpsuit $98
Forever FLOTUS Michelle Obama Coffee Mug $20
Jewelle Luxe Charm Bar $4-$14
Serving up some good news!
While other prices have risen, GreyStone Power is offering a double helping of savings for members:
$12 million in capital credits is coming to members this fall. This money back is tangible evidence of members’ ownership of their electric cooperative.
And those served by GreyStonePower are already enjoying rates that are more than 32% lower than Georgia Power’s.*
These are just a couple of the benefits of being served by a not-for-profit electric cooperative.
Money back. Safe, reliable electricity. That’s definitely good news.
* According to the 2024 summer rate survey by the Georgia Public Service Commission. Based on the average residential use of 1,500 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month.
Making Life Better
HANDCRAFTED STYLE FOR MEN AND WOMEN
Bespokuture
Bespokuture delivers exquisitely handcrafted garments, shoes, and leather goods to men and women across the nation. They empower clients, build confidence, and plant excellence through their meticulously crafted pieces. Bespokuture can truly outfit clients from shoulder to toe with unrivaled business, formal, and casual wear pieces. That includes (but is not limited to) suits, tuxedos, shirts, coats, skirts, vests, sneakers, boots, shoes, duffel bags, and more. Their superior design and unwavering service keeps clients coming back and happily referring the brand to friends and family.
Mission: To enhance the power and lifestyle of each client through beautifully crafted garments and shoes.
Vision: To provide all the custom pieces clients will ever need.
CONTINUED >
Changing the World
One Black Girl at a Time
Our mission at The Empress and Pearls is to aid in cultivating the minds of girls of color through motherly guidance, mentorship and education. We highlight the symbolism of the pearl, a popular gem, rich in character and powerful in impact.
BESPOKUTURE FALL STYLE TIPS FROM FOUNDER AND CEO OMAR KINNEBREW
1. Don’t lose yourself when layering! As the weather changes and temps drop, it’s time to layer up. When adding a sweater, and then a blazer, along with your topcoat, it’s easy to hide your body away under the excessive fabric. But the goal is to still have well-cut pieces that contour and fit your body appropriately. I see way too many men with oversized jackets, thinking they need a ton of extra room for warmer wear. Take your pieces to a trusted seamstress (yes, even sweaters) to have them altered to fit your body. However, if you want the absolute best fit, invest in bespoke garments.
2. Find (or commission) a Chelsea boot and prepare to rock out. Chelsea boots are extremely versatile and look great with jeans and a sweater or a tweed suit. Get a pair crafted in suede and add a little more character to your wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down and will quickly become a favorite in your arsenal.
404.692.3957
631 N Central Ave. Hapeville, GA 30354 Bespokuture.com
Still Standing
ARTICLE BY JASMINE TIFFANY
Long before Tameka Foster Raymond was known for her high-profile marriage and drama-fueled divorce, she was a self-made success in the fashion world, curating wardrobes for many of today’s award-winning entertainers. In her memoir, Here I Stand: in a Beautiful State, Tameka opens up about her childhood influences, coming of age in Oakland, and the heartbreaks that shaped her. From losing her first love to enduring the tragic loss of her 11-year-old son, Kile, Tameka’s story is about growth, renewal, perseverance, and optimism. She bravely reveals a vulnerability that has rarely been seen, sharing her journey with grace, humility, and a wicked sense of humor.
TAMEKA RAYMOND'S
SIGNATURE STYLE AND NEW BOOK
“EACH CHAPTER NOT ONLY TELLS THE STORY OF A SPECIFIC TIME IN MY LIFE BUT ALSO AIMS TO SHARE THE LESSONS I LEARNED FROM THOSE EXPERIENCES. BY THE END OF EACH CHAPTER, I TRY TO OFFER A TAKEAWAY, HOPING THAT READERS WILL FIND VALUABLE INSIGHTS IN MY JOURNEY AND APPLY THOSE LESSONS TO THEIR OWN LIVES.”
“One of the biggest rewards was realizing my own role in a lot of situations I faced,” she told SoFu Lifestyle. “As I wrote, I had to take a hard look at myself and be accountable for my actions. It was tough but also really empowering and healing. This journey of self-discovery and growth has been one of the most rewarding parts of writing my memoir.”
The memoir dives into key themes in Tameka’s life such as resilience, growth, and self-discovery. Each chapter not only recounts specific times but also shares the lessons learned from those experiences. “By the end of each chapter, I try to offer a takeaway, hoping that readers will find valuable insights in my journey and apply those lessons to their own lives,” she says. “But most importantly, always remain in a beautiful state.”
Balancing personal life, motherhood, and professional ventures while writing the memoir was no small feat. The beauty of writing Here I Stand is that it unfolded over the past decade, but Tameka organized all the chapters and completed the writing during the pandemic when the world was quieter. “I traveled and sat on beaches to find the peace and focus needed to finish the book. I had to be very intentional with my time, setting aside specific moments for writing, family, and work. It was all about finding a rhythm and sticking to it, even when things got hectic,” she reflects.
“IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT LOOKING GOOD; IT’S ABOUT FEELING GOOD AND EXUDING CONFIDENCE.”
One standout story in the book is Tameka’s experience of facing a significant career setback while dealing with personal issues at home. Despite the adversity, she focused on staying true to herself, maintaining her confidence, and not letting the situation dictate her self-worth. “I embraced my unique style and perspective, which helped me navigate through those tough times with grace and resilience,” she shares. “This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and self-belief, lessons I hope will inspire readers facing their own challenges.”
Tameka’s impeccable style has always been a part of her identity. As a stylist, she has a unique ability to blend elegance with trends, creating looks that are both timeless and cutting-edge. “Fashion has always been a way for me to express myself and my journey,” she explains. “It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good and exuding confidence.”
Through her memoir, Tameka Raymond invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, encouraging them to find strength in their unique experiences and to always stand firm in their truth.
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U N I ON CITY ’ SDYNAMICDUO
Within the past 10 years, Union City has seen tremendous growth by 40%, thanks to the leadership and passion of two visionary leaders. City Manager Sonja Fillingame and Assistant City Manager Tarsha Calloway are shaping the future of Union City with their shared devotion to enhancing its resident experience.
Sonja and Tarsha’s careers began at the state level, where they honed their passion for public service and commitment to their community. Starting as an intern in the Georgia governor’s office, Sonja supported crime victims and learned the
CITY MANAGER SONJA FILLINGAME AND ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER TARSHA CALLOWAY
ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE LATIMORE
true meaning of citizen support, while Tarsha, with her educational background in accounting, worked as an internal auditor for the state of Michigan. Their paths converged in Sandy Springs, where they experienced the power of local government’s direct impact on their community. Since 2013, they have served as the City Manager and Assistant City Manager, leading with unwavering passion and dedication to serving Union City residents.
The overarching goal that Sonja and Tarsha both emphasize is the master strategic plan to “Reclaim, Renew, and Reimagine Union City.” Through this plan, they aim to elevate the lives of Union City residents by creating more access to resources, recreational centers, parks, and opportunities to ensure residents can thrive in their own community. Sonja and Tarsha believe in directly engaging with Union City residents to best prioritize and address community needs. They lead with a citizen-first mindset, ensuring everyone in their community feels included and supported.
Both leaders had so much to share when asked about their favorite projects. Sonja proudly detailed the transformation of an abandoned high school into a community center called The Gathering Place and the acquisition of vacant athletic fields that were repurposed into a community garden and a new skate park for the city. Tarsha has been incredibly proud of this summer’s literacy program, which integrates with the city summer camp and the LIT (Leadership in Training) program for teens encouraging entrepreneurship, ending with a Shark Tank–style pitch presentation.
Motivated by a desire to make a difference in uplifting the lives of others through service, Sonja and Tarsha aim to inspire the next generation of public leaders. They strive to cultivate a safer and more engaged community, hoping residents can feel proud to be a part of Union City. With dedicated and passionate leaders Sonja and Tarsha, the future of Union City is in the most capable hands.
SENIOR S.T.A.R.S. SHINE!
ARTICLE BY GINNY ALBERT
S.T.A.R. is the acronym for Senior Thespians Are Ready. Faye AdamsTaylor had a very specific vision. “When we emerged from the pandemic, people were expressing their raw emotions and misgivings to me. I felt terrible and helpless, and prayed, ‘Lord, what can I do to eliminate some of these fears, to let them know that we’re not at the end of our road?’ He replied, ‘Turn the corner.’ A light came on! S.T.A.R. Ensemble was born! God had provided a platform to stimulate the memories, to nurture the gifts and talents in the performing arts, and more than anything else to unleash the creativity of senior citizens 55 years and older.”
Faye, the artistic director and visionary of S.T.A.R. and playwright, together with her most capable partner and fellow thespian Dhana Powell-Pope, answered God’s calling. They answered the call to lead, guide, and nurture this dynamic group of talented and committed new artists.
Most of the S.T.A.R. actors had never acted before but they have developed a love for their craft, which has given purpose to their lives at a moment when they were considering retirement. This artistic outlet is perfect for those who might consider joining S.T.A.R. Ensemble.
Faye shared her concept with City of South Fulton District 1 Councilwoman, Dr. Catherine Rowell, who introduced the playwright and her vision to then Southwest Arts Center (SWAC) Director Salondia Aveni. They were excited about this addition to the arts program and God blessed S.T.A.R. with a home at SWAC, where all their shows will premiere.
Faye’s efforts were delivered in her debut production with S.T.A.R. Ensemble by her personal twist of James Weldon Johnson’s infamous play, “God’s Trombones” in April 2024. Her version, entitled “A Different Twist of God’s Trombones” is a first in that she takes five of Weldon Johnson’s sermons, renames them lessons and renders them character driven. The result of this creative liberty is entertaining, distinctive, and transforming, which is why the production is back by popular demand!
After eight sell-out performances at Southwest Arts Center, S.T.A.R. Ensemble has been invited to deliver an encore presentation of “A Different Twist of God’s Trombones” at Divine Faith Ministries International.
S.T.A.R. Ensemble continues to work arduously to fulfill their quest to entertain, inspire, and stimulate audiences, which motivates, esteems, and encourages senior citizens throughout the community.
Join Faye and her S.T.A.R. Ensemble performers, as they prepare once more to take theatre goers by storm with “A Different Twist of God’s Trombones,” Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 4 p.m., at Divine Faith Ministries International, 9800 Tara Boulevard, Jonesboro, Georgia. There will be one show only! Don’t miss it!
Transportation will be provided from the Publix Supermarket parking lot on Cascade Road to the Divine Faith Ministries Campus for ticket holders who desire to attend from southwest Atlanta but are unable or don’t desire to drive the distance. Tickets may be purchased at Eventbrite.com.
Just as children enjoy watching other children perform, seniors equally enjoy watching other seniors perform! Bring your parents, your grandparents, neighbors, and other seniors in your lives to witness this glorious performance! This show is for the entire family. You will laugh, you will cry, you will sing, you will rejoice, you will celebrate! It is a theatrical experience you will never forget!
Affordable Elegance In South Fulton
