Sense of Style
Through the creative process of piecing these stories together, I recall moments when I channeled my own style. Even from a young age, my mom always encouraged me to explore fashionable ensembles to look my best for the first day of school. In high school, I was the quiet girl but expressed myself through my dress. Fashion was my creative outlet.
At a school where uniforms were an everyday requirement, I designed mine to stand out by pairing my skirts with different shoes, earrings and jackets. By senior year, I was awarded best dress which was a challenging accomplishment considering my entire class wore the same matching garments.
Later, oversized t-shirts and athletic shorts were the norm when I arrived at my college campus, but I attempted to dress for success when possible and received recognition as best dress in our campus newspaper. To this day, I never shy away from my intuition regarding fashion and creativity. As an editor, that same keen eye has evolved from matching socks and skirts to articles and photographs.
I have been dreaming about this particular issue since I became editor. June was many late nights of sketching layout designs, analyzing fashion magazines and coordinating with talented individuals to make this style issue stylish.
To help us make sense of this concept, we turned to many talented women of Woodstock—interior designer of Southern Sky Home, Emma Beck, merchandising and marketing manager of Southern Sky Home, Sarah (Grace) Heffernan, and Apricot Lane Boutique owner, Katie Koudele— to reveal their most creative insights. We’ve also refreshed the magazine, adding new layout designs, sections and fonts that carry their individual style. Within these pages are unique stories, all knitted together to create a fashionable publication.
I tailored The Style Issue to look its best for the first day of autumn. May the issue inspire you to define your own sense of style. Trends come and go. Style is timeless. XO,
Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/WOODSTOCK | LIFESTYLE LETTER 4
September 2023
PUBLISHER
Marco Rossi | marco.rossi@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Savanna Jaggears | savanna.jaggears@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Gregory Jaggears
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Savanna Jaggears
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
CONTROLLER Gary Johnson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
Learn
Where neighbors can see and be seen.
Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @woodstockcitylifestyle
Liam & Lana, sister company of Southern Sky Home, is planned to open in Fall 2023 by co-founders Bill Grace and daughter Sarah (Grace) Heffernan. The home furnishings and lifestyle brand is inspired by global travel, years of product design and two special family members, Liam & Lana. With a focus on sustainability and locally sourced goods, their passion for high-quality products, functional design and outstanding customer service continues as they unfold this new brand.
Scan to read more.
With the transitional season, the mood is perfect for cleaning out closets or garages but pay attention to your outdoor living spaces. The idea of a fresh fall landscape service is inviting. Meet all of your seasonal outdoor landscaping needs with Taurus Landscape. Taurus Landscape offers routine maintenance, installation, draining, irrigation and lighting. Autumn days are cooler, making it the perfect time to relax outdoors in new fall curb appeal. Book an appointment at TaurusLandscape.com.
Scan to read more.
Dr. Steven Bailey, an award-winning plastic surgeon, launches Bailey Cosmetic, a Med Spa that offers the latest cutting-edge cosmetic treatments. Bailey Cosmetic clients can expect to see plastic surgery level results from non-invasive cosmetic procedures with less downtime and lower costs than traditional plastic surgery. Dr. Bailey is known to have a quiet confidence and a warm, engaging bedside manner that patients love. Book your virtual or in-person consultation today at BaileyCosmetic.com.
Scan to read more.
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Woodstock
How Fashion Comes Alive With Illustrator, Stephanie Gentry
Fashion starts from a drawing. We at Woodstock City Lifestyle admire the art of fashion illustration. Fashion illustrator, artist and designer Stephanie Gentry utilizes sketching to visualize and communicate her stylish ideas. She shares with us her artistry, "pinch me" moments and passion for fashion.
As a 2012 graduate with a degree in fashion design from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), she began doing production design to help emerging designers sketch their collections. Stephanie recollects how much she enjoyed specific experiences at SCAD, "I really loved when we did figure model classes and drew models in fashion classes. We had a model to capture and they would time us." Later, she then started to get requests to do live illustrations. "My first request was a live bridal sketch. I got the idea to do fashion and illustration-styled bridal portraits," says Stephanie.
Today, her most meritable skill is capturing the essence of whimsical fashion illustrations for
various brands and events. "It takes 3-10 minutes to sketch at a live event. There is something about the energy that helps me. I gain a lot of inspiration and joy in that moment while sharing it with others," says Stephanie. Her eye for detail and ability to recreate the spirit and style of the moment is exquisite.
A very "pinch me" moment for Stephanie is when she did work for the luxury fashion house Christian Dior, all thanks to a referral by her dear friend and artist Jessica Durrant. “Dior has always been a dream brand to work with since before college. I was selected to watch the 2023 runway show and illustrate to my heart’s content.”
Stephanie gleans inspiration from fashion history, weddings, luxury streetwear, nature, flowers, animals, architecture, people and beauty in unexpected places. What makes Stephanie's artistry unique is her ability to capture movement even when she is not in attendance at live events, "Sometimes I'll add movement to the garments that are not always there so that the clothes hang beautifully. I like to sketch walking poses and imagine how the outfits will move with certain gestures."
Amongst her many accomplishments is her work with TK Bridal in Sandy Springs, where she did custom couture designs for brides. In addition, Alice+Olivia is the first big brand she had the opportunity to work with, and she consistently works with them today. She is also grateful to work with Fab'rik and their 20th-anniversary celebration.
Though she has many accomplishments under her name, she is most proud of her book, Blooming Fashionistas. Stephanie explains, "I spent a long time developing artwork for the book and creating something people can relate to and learn from. I'm very proud of what I have created and the work it took to get to this point."
With utmost passion, Stephanie describes in detail the inspiration behind the book, "Birth flowers inspire the book; there is even a birth flower chart to find which floral represents your birth month to color. Blooming Fashionistas also includes mindfulness exercises for stress relief."
Enjoy these drawings of looks handpicked from Stephanie Gentry’s archive.
“My mission is to use art to bring people together to create positive change in the world. As an artist, I am making meaningful memories that last a lifetime, and spreading love one sketch at a time.”
StephanieGentryArt.com
LIZ BORGSCHULTE, STORE MANAGER OF SEEDS THRIFT BOUTIQUE, SHARES HOW SEEDS SERVES OUR WOODSTOCK COMMUNITY
WHAT DOES SEEDS THRIFT BOUTIQUE MEAN TO YOU?
God lets me use my skills, from years of business and retail, to serve on the Seeds team. I was in the resale business of thrifting to buy and sell things online. I had this vision of Seeds set up as a clean and organized boutique to make people feel great about their shopping experience. We merchandise with vignettes that allow the customer to come and visualize how items will work in their home. God has given me an anointing to steward our donations and do the best for the ministry with an incredible sales team and volunteers.
EXPLAIN HOW SEEDS THRIFT BOUTIQUE GIVES BACK.
We are available for the clients that we serve through The HOPE Center, a ministry for women facing unplanned pregnancies. Moms can use their baby bucks, as an opportunity for them to make purchases at a significant discount. Also, the general public shops and invests in Seeds, which directly feeds back into the families we serve. It’s great to serve Woodstock through semi-annual sales. The clothing will go for a dollar per piece, which really helps those in the community who may not qualify for our pregnancy ministry. Anytime we can bless people beyond our clients, is a win for us!
WHAT IS SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT SEEDS THRIFT BOUTIQUE?
We have a prayer wall where customers can write prayer requests, and our whole ministry prays over them. We’ve had many opportunities when we’ve been able to minister to people during our regular store hours. Seeds’ focus is on people first; our team is very engaged in personalizing and being aware of every customer that comes through the door.
A Conversation with Southern Sky Home on their Latest Design Project
A family-owned and operated business, Southern Sky Home Outlet was founded in 2018 by Bill Grace, a 40-year furniture industry veteran and third-generation furniture store owner. His mission with the retail store was to make overstock and discontinued items from the wholesale side of the business accessible to the local Woodstock community.
Fast forward to now, Southern Sky Home Outlet has since expanded its retail business and opened its new showroom,
Southern Sky Home, located across the street, adding approximately 8,000 square feet of retail store space.
His daughter, Sarah (Grace) Heffernan, has been involved parttime with the business since the beginning and came on board fulltime in 2021 to manage merchandising and marketing. Another core team member, Emma Beck, has been part of the sales team since the opening date and is now the company's store manager and lead designer.
WCL: DESCRIBE THE COLLABORATION BETWEEN WINDSONG PROPERTIES AND SOUTHERN SKY HOME.
SARAH: Southern Sky Home and Windsong Properties have partnered up to bring Woodstock and surrounding areas in North GA top-ofthe-line, luxury model homes and clubhouses that merge Windsong’s
Sarah and Emma gave us a tour of their latest design project, the Ruisseau Model Home by Windsong Properties.
quality builder craftsmanship with Southern Sky Home’s classic, on-trend home furnishings and design services. With the Ruisseau model home located directly behind our new retail store, it was a natural decision to form a collaborative partnership.
EMMA: The Ruisseau Community, is less than a mile from downtown Woodstock, offers spacious master-on-main, two-story townhomes, entertainment-friendly kitchens and open interior concepts. The community features luxury single-family homes and townhomes allowing the homeowner to personalize the various interior design and structural options to meet their lifestyle.
WCL: SHARE MORE ABOUT THE INTERIOR DESIGN ASPECT OF RUISSEAU MODEL HOME.
EMMA: We took the same timeless approach to selecting the finishes and color palette as we did with all the furnishings. We wanted to add character and personality to the space by adding architectural details like shiplap in the secondary bedrooms, a waterfall island in the kitchen and painting the primary bedroom and office a statement color. Layering different tones, textures and utilizing patterns and paint was crucial to the design plan to make this home unique to the buyer. We intend to spark inspiration in those buying or designing a home in the Ruisseau community.
WCL: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE FEATURES IN THE RUISSEAU MODEL HOME?
SARAH: I love the sense of design cohesion you see and feel throughout the home. When you look at each piece,
there is a precise use of mixed styles, but it's done strategically that makes each room feel connected and flow seamlessly from room to room. Also, we have incorporated QR codes on most items inside the home that can be ordered. Customers can quickly scan the QR code and shop the model through ShopOurModel.com
WCL: WHEN WORKING WITH CLIENTS, WHAT IS THE INTERIOR DESIGN PROCESS LIKE FOR THEM?
EMMA: We strive to make our client's vision for their home come to life - so our design process starts by listening. We listen and learn more about our customer's lifestyle, budget and design inspirations. Then we handle the rest from there! Our team measures, photographs, and sketches the clients' space to begin the design process. After the initial consultation, our team sources products and carefully curates mood boards, floor plans and 3D renderings to present to the customer.
WCL: EXPLAIN THE DIFFERENT BENEFITS AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY SOUTHERN SKY HOME.
SARAH: All product on our floor is in-stock and available for immediate delivery. We offer in-home full-service design, in-store design consultations and local white glove delivery services. We have new inventory that arrives weekly, and trucks arrive daily. Due to our factory-direct partnerships, we can bring the highest quality pieces at prices that are more accessible. As our tagline says….more style, more value!
My family has a boat business, Proboat Inc., in Woodstock. I grew up around building hot rod boats and cars. My dad ran drag boats in the eighties, so it has always been a familiar sport. I started on a go-kart track across the street from our shop, which turned into racing stock cars. Also, I built boats for a long time but did not start drag boat racing until 2014. Then, in 2015 it was my first entire season, and I have been all-in drag boat racing ever since.
I got licensed in 2014 and only ran one race that year. Then, in 2015 it was my first full season, and in 2016, I won the championship. So, I had only been in the sport briefly before I picked up a championship. I won four championships, two runners-up and set the mph record climbing to over 233mph on the 875foot course in Phoenix, Arizona. I have had success for the eight years I've been running. That shows all the hard work the crew and I do back at the shop in Woodstock. It's great for our team!
“I have had success for the eight years I’ve been running. That shows all the hard work the crew and I do back at the shop in Woodstock. It’s great for our team!”
WHAT IS AN INTERESTING FACT THAT PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT DRAG BOAT RACING?
Most people think this is one of the most dangerous sports due to the water aspect. To get certified to drive a capsule boat with an enclosure, you have to go through a dunk test. Our oxygen tank sits between our legs, and it is a standard procedure for the driver to be submerged underwater to ensure no panic and to test the oxygen equipment.
WHAT IS SOMETHING PARTICULARLY SPECIAL ABOUT YOU AS A RACER?
Since I have a stock car background, I bring the safety techniques I learned to speed boat racing. Plus, we are one of the only teams building everything in-house. We have the molds for the boat, the capsule and everything. Many other teams seek a manufacturer, buy the boat and rig it with their motor combination setup. I do almost all the fabrication work and build-out with some guys who like to help. So I am not just a driver-type deal; I also build the boat.
HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE A WIN?
I jump in the water, it’s a ritual!
Sarah (Grace) Heffernan's expertise in identifying interior design trends is one for the books. Owing to her mix of creative intuition and confidence in her keen eye for trends, we decided to ask about the latest styles we will see this fall and in 2024.
1.) WARM NEUTRALS - We are seeing a significant shift away from cool tones, as warmer color schemes gain popularity. Colors like beige, brown, ivory, rust and taupe are taking over. These tones bring warmth to a space and provide a sense of comfort.
2.) BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN - Inspired by the concept of Biophilia -our human desire to be close to nature. The use of
natural materials such as greenery, natural light and muted color palettes, along with textures such as natural wood grain, stone, rattan and organic shapes. The biophilic interior design creates a calming space with a visual connection to nature, improving well-being, health and productivity.
3.) ARTFUL LIGHTING - Statement, ambient, large-scale lighting is functional but also acts as a piece of art and focal point in your home. Putting layered lighting such as sconces, pendants and chandeliers into play accentuates any room.
4.) MOODY PAINT COLORS - Rich browns and bold green earthy tones lend themselves beautifully to office spaces or
bedrooms. The combination of moody tones alongside earthy hues sets a mood and creates a certain elegance.
5.) ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS - This adds texture, depth and interest to walls. Vertical shiplap and custom traditional millwork give a home character and charm to provide statement details. When natural light rests on these elements, it brings a sophisticated appeal.
6.) QUIET LUXURY - The idea of quiet luxury is an elevated, refined look that steers clear from glam, shiny or glitzy spaces. Rather rooms filled with curated accents, plush seating, soft rugs, layered lighting, pillows and throws elevate the room.
3.
5.
6.
As the days get cooler and nights get longer, we are clothing in cozy knitwear and denim. These fall looks from Apricot Lane Boutique are the perfect transition pieces.
Styled by Katie Koudele.
Photographed by Gregory Jaggears.
BLUE JEAN BABY
It’s time to don your denim jacket. Layer up with this fleece denim jacket -a more fashion-forward take on the snug fleece. Ease into the autumn season with this timeless staple before the temperatures truly dip.
Hats off to this little black dress (LBD) featuring a half-zip—this dress gives a wink to the famous half-zip pullover. This LBD is sophisticated yet chic but offers the same comfortable feel as a favorite pullover. With these puffy sleeves and tiered detailing, you won’t resist grabbing this instead of reaching for that pullover.
Fall forward in these off-white, autumn-approved pleated pants. These trousers pair perfectly with a cozy warm-colored knit. Make a statement with a bold heel to give an overall balance to the look.
1. Waxed canvas bags are designed with durability in mind. Canvas is an already durable fabric, and with a wax coating, it ages like fine leather and is water-resistant.
2. A film camera helps to slowly photograph with intention. Let the moment unfold organically and snap souvenir keepsakes.
3. Leather journals are for the man with a spirit of adventure. Long-lasting leather journals are made to withstand up to any escapades.
4. A dive watch is a practical yet classic piece designed to be worn underwater and is resistant up to 100 meters. These days it is also worn by non-divers for other recreational water sports and casual wear.
5. Men’s boots are handcrafted with the highest quality materials. From the leather down to the laces, boots are designed to provide comfort around the clock.
6. An authentic flannel shirt is made from wool yarn. When woven together, the wool has a natural fluff and does not lay flat. The wool yarn is better at retaining heat when wet and has natural moisture-wicking properties that remove sweat from the body.
“Marco Rossi exemplifies true professionalism and attention to detail. Every step of the way he gave it 110% and made us feel at ease. He took the stress out of a usually stressful situation of getting your home ready to sell and have multiple showings per day. He was able to get our house multiple offers within the first week of it being listed for sale! He knew we were under a time crunch and followed accordingly. Listen to what he says in order to get your house show ready! We trust him with everything! We will definitely use him again if needed. We highly refer Marco to anyone looking to sell or purchase a home.”
- Rocio B.
THE REEVES HOUSE VISUAL ARTS CENTER, 734 REEVES ST., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 |
6:00 PM
In honor of Latin Heritage Month, the LatinX art exhibit features artwork created by artists of Latin American descent living in the United States. The collection showcases the diversity and cultural richness of the LatinX community through various styles and media. The talents and perspectives of LatinX artists highlight the cultural fabric of the area.
REFORMATION BREWERY, 105 ELM ST., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 | 10:00 AM
Rise and shine with Reformation Brewery. Join in on a beginner yoga session with instructor, Tommasina. The class is $20 and is paid at the door. The cost includes a free post-yoga pint or Alma coffee.
SUNSET GRILLE LAKESIDE RESTAURANT-LAKE ALLATOONA, 1001 VICTORIA LANDING DR., 1483, WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 | 1:00 PM
Enjoy a lakeside concert featuring country artist Mary Kate Farmer, 2022 Georgia Country's Female Artist of the Year. Mary Kate's authentic stage presence and compelling songwriting make her performances memorable and entertaining.
Toddler Time
HOT WHEELS SKATE CENTER, 228 FARM RIDGE DR NE., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 | 10:00 AM
Skate, Play or ride at Toddler Time. This session is for children 6 and under. Bring ride-on scooters or bikes (sorry, no bikes with pedals), or play in the indoor playground. Enjoy a selection of snacks from the cafe.
THE REEVES HOUSE VISUAL ARTS CENTER, 734 REEVES ST., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188, |
6:00 PM
In under 3 hours, 3 local artists will create a piece of art on the spot that will be raffled off at the end of the night. Guests can connect with artists in our community, see the creative process in action and possibly win an art piece.
SEPTEMBER 17TH
ROOTSTOCK RESTAURANT AND BAR, 8558 MAIN ST., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 | 6:00 PM
Jacob Johnson takes the stage at Rootstock Restaurant and Bar. A Jacob Johnson concert is an infused performance with personality. His guitar skills run right down his arms into his fingers and onto the strings without missing a grain of warmth and meticulous talent. Be there to witness his amazing show.
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Woodstock
Sunset Symphony
CHEROKEE AMPITHEATRE, 101 ARNOLD MILL RD., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 | 7:30 PM
Meet us at the symphony at sunset and become enraptured in a beautiful musical experience. Enjoy the impressive skills of musicians and get lost in the sound of instruments as they play their respective parts. There is nothing like experiencing a night at the symphony first-hand.
Sasha Hurtado
MADLIFE STAGE AND STUDIOS, 8722 MAIN ST., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 | 7:30 PM
Sasha Hurtado from NBC's The Voice 2022 will perform LIVE! With her positive vibe and energetic presence, Sasha is set to light up the stage. Enjoy her indie, pop-inspired music and powerful vocals.
WOODSTOCK VISITORS CENTER, 8588 MAIN ST., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 | 6:00 PM
The theme of this tour answers all questions surrounding the revitalization of Downtown Woodstock. Put on your walking shoes and engage in Woodstock's redevelopment history. Our city's growth and development are among the most captivating of the southeast. The first tour begins at 6pm and continues at 6:30pm, 7pm and 7:30pm. Tour times will last 30 to 45 minutes.
Woodstock Pickleball Jamboree
DUPREE PARK, 513 NEESE RD., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 | 8:00 AM
The Woodstock Lions Club is proud to announce the 2023 Woodstock Pickleball Jamboree. All proceeds will benefit the Woodstock Lions Club's many community service projects. The Woodstock Pickleball Tournament is open to all levels of players, so whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, sign up and join for a day of fun and philanthropy.
DWELLING PLACE CHURCH, 110 LONDONBERRY CT., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 | 6:00 PM
Dwelling Place Church is set to host Angela Williams, author of Loving Me: After Abuse. Take part in a comforting message and find healing as Angela shares her story of overcoming the traumas of childhood abuse. She will help you discover peace, joy and freedom through the healing power of Jesus Christ!
Parson James
WOODSTOCK ARTS EVENT GREEN, 113 ELM ST., WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA 30188 | 7:30 PM
Pop singer and songwriter Parson James takes the stage. South Carolina-born and Los Angeles-based platinum-certified singer and songwriter Parson James transmutes trials and tribulations into inspiration. This transformative approach speaks to his deep empathy and potential to incite a positive impact. Enjoy this excellent experience hosted by Woodstock Arts.
This homemade sugar scrub is easy to make and leaves you with silky soft skin
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• ½ cup of oil (almond oil or olive oil works best)
• ½ teaspoon vitamin E oil
• ½ teaspoon real vanilla extract
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
DIRECTIONS:
Sugar scrubs are amazing for getting rid of dead skin and exfoliating to reveal soft skin. To make this Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub, mix all ingredients together and store in an airtight jar.
