Northside Woman, February 2015

FEBruary January 2015 2015

Wedding Stories Many ways to say “I Do!”

Amazing Cakes Cumming bakery’s edible artistry

He Proposed!

Capturing the big moment

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staff

Katie VanBrackle

Candy Waylock

katie@northsidewoman.com

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Kimberly Brock

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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SENIOR WRITER

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general manager Hans Appen hans@northsidewoman.com sales executives Hans Appen, Abby Breaux, Becky Nelson, Wendy Goddard, June Meltzer, Julia Johnson, Mike Dorman, Paige Roman sales assistant Susan Hernandez production Suzanne Pacey, David Brown, A.J. McNaughton

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4 | northsidewoman.com | february2015 february2015

the cover

{ INSIDE }

The beautiful bride-to-be on our cover is Sarah Kindregan, a registered nurse at Northside Hospital-Forsyth, who will marry Kyle Davis on May 16 at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville. For a behind-the-scenes peek at Sarah's whirlwind day as a cover girl, see page 46.

Thank you to our cover sponsors!

northside women { 6 }

UNSUNG ‘SHE’RO Jennifer Doll-Del Valle

{ 16 } GETTING TO KNOW

“The Bachelor’s” Ashley Salter { 20 } THE INTERVIEW

Blayne White preserves memories { 26 } MANY WAYS TO SAY ‘I DO!’

Local brides share their stories

northside lifestyle { 10 } GOOD EATS

Crafty Cakery’s amazing creations { 14 } TAKE FIVE

Choosing a wedding caterer. { 24 } GOOD BOOKS

Colleen Oakley’s “Before I Go”

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unsung‘she’ro

Stand By Me Jennifer Doll-Del Valle’s miracle journey down the aisle

By KIMBERLY BROCK

KYLE VALENCIA PHOTOGRAPHY

O

6 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

recovery room, and they asked me to stand up, I couldn’t. I had feeling and movement in my lower body, but I didn’t have the ability to stand on my own.

They said I should use a walker for the time being until I gained strength back and could walk on my own.”

To everyone’s horror, that never happened. By the end of July, Jennifer was frustrated, depressed and anxious.

She had gained a lot of weight from being inactive, spending most of her time in bed. Feeling hopeless, she sought the opinion of new doctors, who suggested a spinal fusion as her best and last option.

“I had about a million emotions running through me,” she said. “But we had just passed the one-year mark from the accident and I was

n Oct. 18, 2012, Jennifer DollDel Valle of Cumming thought her dreams had come true when her now husband proposed. But the journey that lay between her and the aisle was nothing out of her dreams.

A few days later, what began as an innocent trip to the North Georgia Outlet shops ended with a rear-end collision that changed their lives forever.

Jennifer’s car was hit from behind by a woman who later explained that she had been distracted by her phone. Jennifer found herself in agonizing pain and was soon diagnosed with whiplash.

“The doctors gave me pain medication and told me to take some time off to rest,” she said. “They gave me a referral to a physical therapist.

They said I should feel good as new within a few weeks.”

Jennifer’s fiancé, a professional baseball player, was due to leave for Columbia, his home country and where he plays winter ball.

“Jaime left the next day,” she said. “It’s always so hard to say goodbye, and this time was so emotional. We weren’t sure when I would be able to travel to be with him.”

Three weeks came and went, without relief.

Unable to function, Jennifer subsequently quit her job and on the advice of her physical therapist, saw a spine specialist. An MRI revealed she’d suffered an annular tear, L5-S1, or damage in her lower spine that had somehow been overlooked.

“We decided on the least invasive surgery possible,” she Jennifer Doll-Del Valle and Jaime De l Valle said. “However, we wanted to see if it would heal itself, or if I could so ready to move on with my life.” manage the pain without surgery.”

The surgery, an ALIF (Anterior Two more months with continued Lumbar Interbody Fusion), required physical therapy led to no improvement, doctors to go through the front of the and Jennifer made the frightening body to reach Jennifer’s spine, remove decision to go through with the surgery. the damaged disc and replace it with a With the future so uncertain, she and cage filled with bone graft, held together Jaime canceled their plans for a dream with four screws. wedding. Instead, they married in a “The incision is very similar to a civil service ceremony. Little did they C-section, and I now have about a sixknow, their commitment was about to be inch scar that reminds me daily of what tested to the fullest.

I have gone through,” she said.

“It was an outpatient procedure One day after her surgery, with the and only took about four hours from help of wonderful nurses, Jennifer stood signing in to being released,” she on her own. said. “However, when I woke up in the “For the first time in over seven

Mr. and Mrs. Jaime Del Valle and their first dance.

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unsung‘she’ro

KYLE VALENCIA PHOTOGRAPHY

▼ SHE'RO, Continued from Page 6

Newlyweds Jennifer Doll-Del Valle and Jaime Del Valle

months, I actually had hope,” she said.

In February – a year-and-half since Jaime proposed – they finally began to make plans for the wedding they’d feared might never happen.

“My goal was to be a new woman, WALKING down the aisle and to lose the 30 pounds I had gained,” she said. “When I bought my wedding dress, I bought it several sizes too small. Everyone thought I was crazy. The first time my dress actually fit me perfectly was the day before my wedding. I almost gave my mother a heart attack!”

At long last, on Oct. 25, 2014, a beautiful autumn day in Georgia, Jennifer finally realized her dream.

“Right before the sanctuary doors opened,” Jennifer said, “I whispered to my dad, ‘Please, don’t let me fall.’ He smiled and replied, ‘I would never let that happen.’”

Jennifer credits loved ones and her faith Jennifer Doll-Del Valle post-surgery and wedding da getting her through the dark times. But she says y. it’s her fiancé Jamie, who is the real hero. It’s no what I’ve done in this life to surprise that the couple’s first dance song was “Stand deserve such a caring, Godly and loving man. But I know

By Me,” sung in both English and Spanish by Prince not to take it for granted.”

Royce. The song has special meaning for Jennifer, who When asked what she hopes her story will mean to understands the hard choices her fiancé had to make. others, Jennifer doesn’t hesitate.

“We were only engaged for two days when our entire “Obviously, I hope our story can make people think world was turned upside down. He didn’t have to stay,” twice before picking up their phone when they’re on Jennifer said. “In our first year of marriage, we went the road,” she said. “But also, I’ve learned we should tell through what most couples don’t go through in a lifetime. people what they mean to us – show them.

We were both 23 years old. I couldn’t bathe myself, so he “I’ve learned that physical ability is not everything,” bathed me. I couldn’t get to the bathroom by myself, so he she said. “Faith, love, hope, peace – those are the things would take me in and help me back out. I couldn’t dress that truly matter. One day when Jaime and I have myself, so he dressed me. children, I pray they’ll grow up knowing that when “I had panic attacks, I had emotional break downs you have a good thing, you have to hold onto it with and I had self-doubt. I lost everything good inside of me. everything you have. Love it. Enjoy it. Cherish it.” ■ But he was there. He stood by me,” she said. “I don’t know

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goodeats

The Cake Lady EMILY KALLOS,

Cumming cake decorator Kristen George loves a design challenge

LULU PHOTOS

Kristen George

By KATIE VANBRACKLE

katie@northsidewoman.com

K

risten George works magic daily in her Crafty Cakery storefront in Cumming, transforming simple batter and icing into unbelievably detailed, vibrantly colored cakes for all occasions. She took a break from the kitchen long enough to talk to Northside Woman about cupcake spiders, Icing Smiles, and what it took to turn a childhood hobby into a thriving business.

NSW: Did you always dream of owning your own cake decorating business?

Kristen George: My amazing mother instilled the love of baking into me at a very young age and I always made cakes for friends throughout high school and college, but it was just a hobby. I received my BA in Photography with a minor in Design and Art History from Georgia State University and worked at Bridals by Lori during those years, where I learned a great deal about the wedding industry. I also made numerous cakes for owner Lori Allen’s kids when they were young, and even Lori’s mom, Jean Burns—a 50th birthday cake, which was my first tiered cake. But it took me another twenty years to figure out I wanted to be a decorator full time and make it a career.

How did the loss of your father change your life’s path?

Every fall when I worked at Piedmont Healthcare, I would sell cakes at Bake-a-Thons to raise money for the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society in honor of my Dad who passed away from cancer in 2009. I became known as the “Cake Lady” and my co-workers and friends were getting hooked on my cake. Then things just began to snowball.

I was beginning to bake year-round for various occasions and with a full-time job, a one to two-hour commute downtown and two children under the age of two, I realized something had to give.

The idea of opening a cakery just made sense. It would give me a more flexible schedule, more family time and the enjoyment of doing something I was truly passionate about. So I visited bakeries all over town and did months of research before coming up with my own plan.

10 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

Where did you learn your amazing decorating skills?

I knew the Atlanta cake market was very competitive and my Wilton buttercream skills would not be enough, so I began taking classes with renowned sugar flower artist and pastry chef Nicholas Lodge.

His instruction brought my decorating skills to a whole new level and allowed me to learn sculpture techniques from guest instructors such as Food Network Challenge winners Lauren ork Kitchens and Netw Food with left, rge, Geo en Krist .

Mike McCarey, Challenge winner Lauren Kitchens who are amazing instructors and just plain down to earth good folks. I also learned as much as I could from things like Craftsy. com and YouTube videos. It’s amazing how much information is available on the internet nowadays and most of it is free!

You now operate your own Crafty Cakery in Cumming. How many cakes do you decorate each month on average?

Maybe 75-100, sometimes more if there is a holiday. We also do cupcakes and cookies, so it really depends on the season.

Your favorite cake designs?

I love geometric design or anything with lots of small details and colors, basically anything that is truly challenging.

make ours with buttermilk, coconut, pineapple and pecans and it is just amazing. It was a recipe my cousin sent me and I fine-tuned it and just absolutely love it.

Most unusual wedding cake request?

A 5-tiered black and white striped wedding cake where the inside (cake batter) was dyed blue and purple for every other tier. It was an Alice in Wonderland themed wedding.

Most unusual groom’s cake?

One we made for a groom whose mother in Dallas had never heard of a themed groom’s cake. She simply told me about her son, who was an avid hunter, loved to mountain bike, kayak and fish, had a yellow lab, loved to camp, went to Alabama and loved wearing his Bat Man cape around the house when he was five years old. So we took all of that and turned it into a cake that was truly a mother’s vision of her adorable son, personified in cake.

Have you ever had any wedding cake delivery disasters?

Deliveries usually go pretty smoothly but the cupcake weddings can sometimes be a bit interesting. The last one we did used fresh-cut wooden stumps to display all of the cupcakes. It was a North Georgia mountain wedding with a rustic theme. It was a beautiful set up, but the wood was so freshly cut that there were spiders still crawling on the bark and sawdust everywhere. Not to mention I’m terribly scared of spiders!

Most exciting cake moments?

Favorite cake flavor?

Carrot cake, hands down. We

When Beyoncé posted the image of a cake we did for her concert at the Arena at Gwinnett Center two years ago on her personal Instagram page and it got over 500,000 likes. And most recently—a cake we did for the Ed Sheeran concert. Ed took a photo with our cake and loved it!

Most challenging design?

The new Georgia Dome. We did a replica for the ground-breaking ceremony, but it was a

► See GOOD EATS, Page 12

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goodeats

▼ GOOD EATS, Continued from Page 10 last minute request and was extremely complicated with all of the angles and architecture. I would not call it a “fun” project, but I was honored to be asked to do it. It’s a beautiful building, but I don’t think it was meant to be made out of cake.

Hardest material to work with?

Isomalt. It’s like a hard candy that you can use to make edible items or transparent fairy wings, but I can never seem to get all of the bubbles out.

modeling chocolate and he stood almost 2 feet high. I’ve only done labs and bulldogs so far, they take about 6-8 hours to complete so we don’t get too many requests for them.

Tell me about your work with Icing Smiles.

A couple of years ago, I saw an advertisement in a cake decorating magazine for Icing Smiles.

They were looking for “Sugar Angels” to donate dream cakes to children with life-threatening diseases. My first cake went to a teenager diagnosed with Leukemia. He was in isolation at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta for his 18th birthday, and had a little party with his twin brother, family and the CHOA nurses. His mom cried when I

delivered the caken to the hospital and I cried, too. I just couldn’t imagine what she was going through.

Sometimes we make cakes for the siblings of the sick children, who can sometimes feel left out or not as important. I created a Super Mario cake for a little boy fighting cancer in 2013 and later made his little sister’s Frozen themed cake.

Typically I’m asked to make 1-2 dream cakes per year and would be happy to do more if given the opportunity. ■ Crafty Cakery 1810 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 108, Cumming, Georgia 470-239-4112 www.craftycakery.com

Strangest cake order?

Eight cow-spotted 3-D football cakes for the Chick Fil-A kickoff game.

How in the world did you create….

The houndstooth hat of Alabama coach Paul “Bear” Bryant?

The fedora hat is a huge favorite of Alabama grads and we’ve done it several times now. It’s completely covered in 2-inch strips of printed houndstooth edible image sugar sheets. Takes about four hours to piece them all together so that it looks seamless.

A golden Texas A&M ring?

I used edible image techniques learned from Lauren Kitchens to make the Texas A&M cake for the Chick Fil-A bowl game in 2013. Luckily my brother was an Aggie so I borrowed his ring to help with recreating all of the details.

The ring itself was made from modeling chocolate and hand-painted in gold metallic. The box was all cake with chocolate sides.

A standing Labrador?

I had just learned how to do standing dog cakes from Mike McCarey when the order came in for a groom’s cake—of the groom’s dog, a yellow lab. I think his name was Buster? I had never actually made such a cake yet, only studied them in class, but it turned out great and the client loved it. They had given me a photo of the pooch and since he couldn’t be at the wedding, the cake was the next best thing. His head was made of 5 pounds of white 12 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

Through Icing Smiles, Kristen George presents a Frozen-themed dream cake to a young girl whose sibling is fighting cancer.

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takefive

How to choose theperfect caterer for your big day katie@northsidewoman.com

as de i fi v e i r t h s no

W

5

e asked Chris Archer, owner of Talk of the Town Catering and Special Events, to share some tips on how to find the perfect wedding caterer. Archer and his staff have a built a strong reputation in the Atlanta area for excellence in cuisine de & and service, recently earning a spot in wedding website The Knot’s Best of Weddings w o tip s f o r men Hall of Fame.

This year, Archer will experience things from a different perspective, that of father-of-thebride, when his daughter Ashlyn walks down the aisle in November. Will he be able to enjoy her reception without giving the hors d’oeuvres a critical eye?

“I’ll still enjoy myself,” he said. “But I may be looking around just a bit.”

1. The venue often dictates the caterer

All photos courtesy of Talk of the Town.

Event Planning & Design 14 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

Many venues have a preferred caterer you are required to use, so choose the location of your wedding and reception before you even think about food. For example, Talk of the Town is the exclusive caterer for Roswell’s Founders Hall and The Chimneys at Big Canoe.

2. Do some online research

If you are able to choose your own caterer, hop online to do a bit of research before calling around. Get a feel for a company by how updated their website looks, check out photos or videos and read online reviews to determine the satisfaction of previous customers. Some catering websites may include event menus and pricing.

3. Attend a tasting

The best way to get a feel for a caterer is to visit their facility for a tasting. However, many companies require you to be under contract with a deposit before offering a sampling. Archer prefers to talk with the bride and groom first, making sure everyone is in the same ballpark We Tie The Knots is a boutique wedding planning and design firm offering services across all of Georgia, Colorado, Charlotte and Orlando. We have built an esteemed reputation utilizing a consultative approach to design and execute customized experiences that you and your guests will cherish for a lifetime.

Our passion is getting to know our couples and translating their style and personalities into an occasion that is uniquely them.

We start with a systematic approach to define your goals, objectives and budget to create the best plan to achieve the results and service experience you expect.

We utilize our network of the

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By KATIE VANBRACKLE

KE

KE

5

financially. Then he hosts open houses with tastings every six weeks for prospective clients. At tastings, pay attention to the way food is displayed, and how servers interact with guests.

4. Consider action stations

Action stations, with a chef standing behind a table, interacting with guests and preparing small, individual plates, is a popular trend. Get creative and express your individual style with shrimp and grits in a martini glass, a flambé dessert station or a bacon bar with candied and spicy varieties.

5. Mix it up

A rehearsal dinner should complement the wedding reception style, but not match it. If the wedding offers a full, seated dinner, then consider heavy hors d’oeuvres for the rehearsal dinner. If the wedding is formal, consider a casual barbecue or low-country boil the night before to allow the wedding party to relax and unwind. ■

most experienced and reputable industry professionals to ensure your customized design will reflect an atmosphere that represents who you are as you celebrate with those you love.

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february2015 | northsidewoman.com | 15

getting to know her

getting to know...

Ashley Salter

Milton grad finding fame on “The Bachelor”

BY CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

A

shley Salter has packed a lot of living into her 24 years, and is still only about five minutes into what is likely to be her 15 minutes of fame. But something about Ashley feels like it may just stretch a bit beyond that.

A Milton High School and Auburn University graduate, Ashley was among the 30 women culled from thousands looking for a shot at love and marriage on this season’s “The Bachelor.” (Well, love is a bit of a stretch since in 18 seasons there has only been one – seriously ONE – match that ended at the altar.)

But the show remains a big draw, and within the group of female contestants, a few emerge more notable than the rest.

This season, Ashley, or “Ashley S. from Brooklyn, NY”as she was referenced, became one of the more well-known contestants for her interesting antics, despite the fact she, alas, did not get the final rose.

Ashley laughs when she talks about the New York tag, noting she has not lived in New York for long and her DNA is much more Georgia Peach than New York Apple.

“When I found out I was cast, I lived in Brooklyn, and so they always referred to me on the show as ‘Ashley S from Brooklyn, NY’. Obviously I am not from Brooklyn!” laughs Ashley, recognizing perhaps that New York City might fit the script better than suburban Atlanta.

On a visit back to Alpharetta, she spent time with Northside Woman so we could get to know her better.

How did you end up in New York City from Alpharetta?

When I graduated from Auburn, my parents allowed me to attend cosmetology school, which is something I had always wanted to do. I attended The Aveda Institute in Buckhead for a year. After I graduated, I went to visit a friend in New York City for what was supposed 16 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

of my must-do’s when I’m back home is I have to eat at Milton’s. That is my absolute favorite local restaurant.

to be a quick visit. While I was there, I interviewed with salons and ended up getting a job offer on the spot at an Aveda salon in the Lower East Side. So… I ended up staying – I didn’t go back home! My parents had to bring my clothes to me since I only had a few things! I found a place in Brooklyn and commuted in to the city for work.

What is life like in New York City?

New York City is so urban, with such a great mix of generations, races, cultures, values, so everyone is very open and accepting. One thing I really appreciate is the ease of public transportation (the subway is always full of surprises!) and the walk-ability to most anything, any time of day. You can have any kind of food delivered to your door, even milk and cookies! And then there’s shopping!

Ahhhhhhhh…. Love the shopping! I love New York….it is just full of energy.

What did you miss most about Georgia?

The thing I missed most about Georgia was the sense of community, particularly in the Alpharetta area, and my family and friends. And all of the outdoor activities….like swimming, golfing, tennis, cycling… It’s hard to find that in the city.

I didn’t have a lot of down-time in NY…. you really have to work to live there. One

Okay, onto “The Bachelor.” How did you end up as a contestant?

I didn’t audition - I was nominated by a friend a year before they contacted me. I didn’t know my friend had nominated me, so when the show contacted me, I honestly thought it was a joke at first. From there, the interview process included meeting with casting directors and producers. I really don’t know how many candidates there were, but I know there were a lot. The show is cast from all over the country and Canada. This season, there were 30 girls selected, which was the largest group in Bachelor history.

Once you decided to be a contestant, what was your goal going in?

My goal was to take this opportunity to meet a really great guy and to see what would come of it. You can’t negotiate love. I was definitely interested in meeting (bachelor) Chris Soules, and if nothing came of it, then it would still be a once in a lifetime experience. I told myself going in, “If I can’t laugh at myself at the end of the day, then I’ll come home”, and that’s what I did. I have watched “The Bachelor” since Season I, but the experience of being on it was nothing like I expected.

So, give us a peek of inside the California mansion with 30 other contestants! Is it really

the constant drama we see on television?

Well, it is reality TV. There have been some surprises watching the episodes airing now because when the other girls are having one on one time with Chris, or out on a one-on-one or group date that you’re not on, you really have no idea what is happening or what conversations they’re having with one another, so that’s been interesting (as I watch it now).

Tell me something that people would find surprising about your experience.

Surprisingly, the girls on the show are all great women, and through the process, I ended up making a lot of new friends. A couple of them will definitely be lasting friendships. They’re all great people and we were all there for the same purpose.

Tell me about the filming process.

When did it start, how long did it last?

Filming started in September, and depending on how long you make it through the season is how long the filming is. (Note: Ashley made it through three rounds of “rose ceremonies” before being eliminated in the fourth week. She was among the final 15 of 30 contestants).

Looking back, is being on The Bachelor something you would do again? And would you recommend others to give it a try?

I don’t regret it. And, as far as would I recommend it to others, that’s not a question I can answer. To each their own.

I know the show is not for everyone, but if someone really wants to try it, then I say ‘go for it’. ■

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theinterview

Saving our lives WHITELAKE PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

ScrapRoom creator Blayne White perseveres in the name of preservation

By KIMBERLY BROCK

B

layne White of Cumming is a vivacious photography enthusiast and longtime professional photography studio owner (Whitelake won Best Photography Studio for 2014) who loves photos and the stories they tell of our lives. So it makes sense that she also has a passion for scrapbooks. That passion led her to create a new tool to make sure the cherished moments of our lives are captured and never lost to time.

“Telling our family’s stories – good and bad – is a way of not only remembering, but also learning as we go through this crazy life,” White explained. “It’s a way to slow down and appreciate what’s going on. You can call it scrapbooking, art journaling, therapy – it’s all our lives.”

While there’s a lot to be said for the convenience of digital photography, White believes that it’s changing how we view, save and share our photos.

“We used to drop a roll of film off at the lab, shop for an hour and pick up our prints,” she said. “Now, we post to the infinite universe of social media and never really ‘see’ our photos again.” White’s concern is validated by concerns brought to her by clients and fellow scrapbookers, who are trying to learn digital photography and all the technology that goes along with it.

“No one understands ‘the cloud,’” she said. “And we have no idea how to get our photos off our devices and back into our lives. Our moments and memories last for a few seconds on Twitter and are gone. I believe a generation of photos is about to be lost because we are all overwhelmed and think we’ll deal with it later – then a hard drive dies, a computer crashes, and poof – gone forever.”

From those conversations, an idea sparked that set White on a course she would have never considered before.

“I realized that there is really no real software that is created for how we want to store and share our photos,” White said. “I was stomping around the house one night and griped to my husband about this, and his response was, ‘Then why don’t you just do it yourself?’ I thought, ‘Well, that’s impossible, right?’ Turns out, it’s not!”

Even with the excitement of seeing a dream being realized, White admits the process of designing and developing the software was incredibly hard. She questioned herself every day.

“I went through three groups of developers – turning one down because they couldn’t see my vision. One we had to sue for taking our money and failing to deliver, and this last one – well, they got it done, but it was two years overdue,” she said. “Four years of my blood, sweat, tears and more than a few chosen bad words, ScrapRoom Software is finally 20 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

Photographer and ScrapRoom creator Blayne White.

I believe a generation of photos is about to be lost because we are all overwhelmed and think we’ll deal with it later – then a hard drive dies, a computer crashes, and poof – gone forever.”

— Blayne White

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White isn’t resting on her laurels when it comes to ScrapRoom Software. She’s far from done.

“I have plans for a mobile app, to make recording your story much easier and

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theinterview

WHITELAKE PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

WHITELAKE PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

ScrapRoom Project Editor ScrapRoom Photo Library

▼ INTERVIEW, Continued from Page 20 spontaneous, as well as a photo organizational-only product that will be marketed more toward the photo enthusiast, rather than the scrapbooker,” she said.

Her zeal is inspiring. White is a woman on a mission.

“With ScrapRoom, I want to teach others how to organize their photos, get their stories written down – even if it’s just in the computer, and back up everything to save it for future generations,” she said.

In going after something that mattered deeply to her, White believes her product will change lives. But perhaps it’s by her perseverance that Blayne White, and so many around her, have already been changed.

“I want to be an example to my kids that you can stick with something and make it work, even when it’s so hard you want to quit,” she said. “And, this is something that is

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goodbooks

Making emotional

connections

Debut author Colleen Oakley finds beginnings in endings

By KIMBERLY BROCK

D

ebut author Colleen Oakley burst onto the scene a few weeks ago with her novel “Before I Go,” the story of a young newlywed who learns she is dying of cancer and determines to spend the time she has left finding a new wife for her husband. With a topic that could have been maudlin, Oakley has written a novel not so much about death, as it is about life. She believes reading is all about making an Author Colleen Oakley emotional connection, and her fiction reflects her convictions.

“My favorite books are the ones that make me feel something — whether I’m literally laughing out loud, or sobbing to want to throw the book across the room in frustration,” Oakley said. “What would make me the happiest is just for readers to connect to the book in some way. If it gives them a different perspective or sparks an interesting conversation, even better.”

Her critics agree. People magazine named “Before I Go” a Best New Book, and there have already been some “feelers” regarding a possible film version. The onetime 24 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

editor of Women’s Health and Fitness and Boating World magazines, Oakley has also written extensively for magazines like Marie Claire and Parade, mostly about relationships and health. But she is thrilled with the reception of her first novel, having gotten her start as a storyteller at an early age.

“I’ve been writing fiction since I could hold a pencil – or crayon, as it were,” Oakley said. “My mom still has stories I wrote from preschool onward. But I have a very practical side and knew that if I wanted to support myself, I’d need to have a ‘real’ job, which is why I got my degree in journalism and went into magazines for my career.”

Working on a freelance assignment six years ago, Oakley interviewed a young woman, a fellow newlywed, who was facing stage 4 breast cancer. Although that woman has since died, she made a lasting impression on Oakley. While respectfully acknowledging that the phone conversation was brief, Oakley was inspired with the idea that would one day lead to “Before I Go.” The levity of such a gift isn’t lost on her.

“All I could think about was what my husband would do if I died,” Oakley said. “And then my mind went, of course, to what anyone thinks about at any point in their relationship, what their spouse would do afterwards … I thought, what if you could pick the person your spouse would be with. Who would you pick?

Would you want her to be like you? Would you not want her to be like you?”

But Oakley’s not writing from experience. Her own life is very different from her fictional heroine.

Oakley’s husband, Fred Tull, is a Georgia Tech grad working as a senior project estimator for a commercial contractor. They have a 4-year-old son and a 2-year-old daughter and are expecting twins in March. Oakley, herself, is glowing with life. She seems the least likely to be writing a book about what could have been a grim story in the hands of another author. “Emotional situations make me terribly uncomfortable, so I’m usually that girl in the corner who’s constantly cracking jokes – at times, very inappropriately – to lighten the mood,” she said.

So when it came to the details of facing a terminal

diagnosis, Oakley wanted to get it right.

“I interviewed an amazing Atlanta radiologist, Dr. Chad Levitt, who walked me through very detailed diagnoses, treatments and possible outcomes for my protagonist. I could not have written the book without his expertise,” she said.

Oakley admits that writing the novel wasn’t without emotional challenges.

“There were many times that I came out of my office/ guest room/tiny desk in the corner with red-rimmed eyes and alarmed my husband that something terrible had happened,” she said. “‘The book!’ I would say, through tears. ‘It’s just the book!’ In retrospect, I think that may have alarmed him even more – that I was that emotionally invested in people who do not actually exist.”

Being a mom and a writer with an expanding family means a lot of change, but Oakley is full of gratitude and a passion for her work. She insists writing makes life better for everyone around her house.

“I’ve found if I’m not writing that I fall into a weird, funky depression and I bitch and moan and complain about really important things, like not being able to find my favorite coffee mug,” she said. “But when I’m writing, I’m a much better everything else – mom, wife, friend, daughter, driver, dinner maker.”

Oakley’s characteristic wry smile gives away her sense of humor and leaves no doubt as to why this novel about endings is also about beginnings.

Full of heart and hope, “Before I Go” is making that emotional connection with readers everywhere.

■

february2015 | northsidewoman.com | 25

say I do!

So many ways to say “I do!”

Local brides share their unique wedding plans

Cape Cod Charm DEVON MORGAN + JOE MCKENNA

T

he Northside Woman team recently had the fun of sharing prewedding excitement with one of our own when Devon Morgan, who photographs our beautiful cover images each month, announced her engagement to long-time beau Joe McKenna.

As the owner of Atlanta’s PhotoSynthesis Studio, Devon spends a lot of time photographing weddings at various venues all over north Georgia. So when the time came to choose a setting for her own nuptials, it was a case of “been there, done that.”

“Nothing seemed special,” she admitted. “There are some beautiful places around Atlanta, but it was always, ‘Oh, that’s where so-and-so got married.’ I wanted something different that would be all ours.”

Add to the mix the fact that Devon’s identical twin sister, Ryan, was also getting ready to walk down the aisle. Ryan married Andy Williams in October at Burge Plantation in Mansfield, Georgia.

“Burge Plantation is an old hunting club, so her style was ‘barn rustic’ with cowboy boots, a short dress and a hayride at the rehearsal dinner,” said Devon. “Her colors were browns, oranges and golds to fit the fall atmosphere.”

Though the sisters may look just alike, their tastes and interests are very different. While Ryan was kicking up her bridal heels in Georgia’s red clay, Devon was dreaming of the New England coastline.

“Joe’s family spent summers in Cape Cod when he was a kid. It’s where he learned to sail,” explained Devon. “A few years ago, his mother rented a Cape Cod house and invited us up. I fell in love.”

Though a destination wedding was not initially on Devon’s radar screen, the more she thought about Cape Cod, the more it seemed a perfect fit.

“We wanted something totally unique. We both love boats and the water, and we wanted a more laid-back wedding. We’re not country club people,” she said.

A vision began to emerge – a classic Cape Cod house on the water, a sunset ceremony, old lanterns, driftwood, navy blue and nautical stripes.

But when Devon began making phone calls, she quickly learned that planning a wedding during Cape Cod’s off season was not going to be easy.

“To begin with, most businesses in Cape Cod are closed from Labor Day to Memorial Day, so getting people to return phone calls was a lesson in patience,” she said. “We also discovered that there really aren’t many large houses for rent which allow events on-site.”

Devon knew it was time to enlist the help of a wedding planner.

With a little help from her network of industry professionals, she found a woman who had coordinated weddings in the exact Cape Cod home Devon wanted to rent.

“I’ve only seen the home in online photos, so it is very important to have a planner there who can help with key decisions,” she said.

The waterside home will be the site of Devon’s sunset wedding and lobster bake reception.

Devon and Joe will rent the home for several days before and after the wedding, to allow time to enjoy the area with whale watching and other activities.

The guest list was set at 120, with the understanding that many would not be able to make such a long trip. However, Devon says they have yet to receive any “regrets.” “Apparently, we aren’t the only ones excited about spending Labor Day weekend on Cape Cod,” she said.

With many family members all staying together in the rented home, there will be a lot of “togetherness,” and Devon plans to follow her sister Ryan’s advice and escape to a local hotel with her new husband for some much-needed privacy and downtime on her wedding night.

Taking a full week of vacation time for the wedding won’t leave much time for a honeymoon, so Devon and Joe will enlist the help of family members to take most of their luggage back to Georgia while the newlyweds drive through New England for a few days on a “minimoon.” ■

Rustic autumn wedding at North Georgia winery COTTRELLPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

KATIE O’LAUGHLIN + ADAM SMEAL

26 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

S

oon after her 21st birthday, Katie O’Laughlin of Milton planned a girl’s day out with her best friend.

The pair visited Wolf Mountain Vineyards, just north of Dahlonega, a 30-acre estate overlooking the Appalachian foothills. That first visit made a lasting impression.

“I fell in love with the area and continued to visit Wolf Mountain with friends, family and my soon-to-be husband to enjoy the fabulous views, wine and tasty food,” said Katie. “It has such character and rustic charm, especially during the most beautiful season of fall.”

Devon Morgan, left, with twin sister Ry

When Adam Smeal proposed, Katie says there was “no doubt that Wolf Mountain was the place we’d share our special day.”

And the best friend from that first girls’ day out adventure will serve as Katie’s maid of honor.

Katie’s mother Lisa says she didn’t think of Dahlonega as a destination wedding at first. The winery is barely an hour’s drive from her home in Milton. But as the planning began, it quickly became apparent that logistically, it was a destination wedding and would have to be treated as such.

“I’ve learned that 10 years ago, there were less than 50 weddings per year in the Dahlonega area,” said Lisa. “In the past two to three years, however, the area’s popularity has exploded and one vendor claimed that now there can be as many as 500 weddings per year. The venues are struggling to keep up with the demand.”

“We actually called Wolf Mountain before Katie was even engaged and found out that they only had two dates

A summer wedding… in February?

CORINNE BARGER + MARIO ZAPATA QUIROGA

PHOTO BY PAULA HARDING PHOTO BY BROWNE PHOTOGRAPHY

yan Williams.

and have an excellent reputation,” Lisa said. “They only work with vendors who know the site well.

“The photographers know the best spot for sunsets in the outdoor pavilion,” she said. “The florists know exactly how many arrangements will be needed. It takes the guesswork out of everything, and I can relax knowing that the planners will handle anything that pops up on the day of the wedding. I don’t want to know if a shuttle bus breaks down in the middle of the reception.”

Adam’s family is planning the rehearsal dinner at another nearby winery, Montaluce Winery and Estates.

With an abundance of natural beauty and romantic “rustic-chic” venues, it’s easy to see why the Dahlonega area has become so popular with brides.

“We really are excited about Katie’s wedding and know that it will be beautiful,” said Lisa.

Her best advice for brides considering a wedding in the North Georgia mountains? “Book early!” ■

In another cross-cultural twist, when Corinne walks down the aisle of Alpharetta Presbyterian Church in February, she will already be a married woman.

The custom in Chile is for a couple to perform a simple civil ceremony first, then plan a more elaborate wedding ceremony at a later time. Corinne and Mario conducted their civil ceremony last October in Chile, with Mario's in Chile, with Mario’s family in attendance. Jodie and Dennis watched their daughter get married through a computer screen, thanks to Skype.

With Chile being 5,000 miles and an expensive plane ticket away from Georgia, only a few of Mario’s relatives and friends will attend the Alpharetta wedding, but Jodie intends to make them feel as welcome as possible.

“We speak very little Spanish, and they speak very little English, but we will make it work,” she said.

Corinne also acknowledges the challenges of blending two cultures through one marriage.

“I feel very much a part of two families, and as I become closer to my Chilean family, I feel guilty for not being with my own family,” she said. “Just because Mario and I are bilingual does not mean our families are.

“We know that it will be important to raise our children bilingual one day, not only for the greater opportunities it will give them, but also because if we don’t, they will lose a connection with one side of their family,” she said.

In the meantime, Jodie hopes that the power of music will help bridge any language gap at the wedding reception, to be held at the DeVore House in Alpharetta.

“I’ve hired a Latin deejay and told the guests to bring their best Salsa moves!” she said. ■

COTTRELLPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

left for 2015 – and this was 13 months out,” said Lisa. “So we grabbed a date and feel lucky to have it.”

Katie’s wedding is planned for October, which is peak leaf-peeping time in the North Georgia mountains, when people drive from miles around to view stunning displays of fall color in the treetops. All those leafpeepers mean brisk business for local hotels, and Lisa is finding it very difficult to get a hotel to agree to reserve rooms for a wedding in the midst of their high season.

“We booked the bridal party’s rooms a year in advance, but now I’m worried about our guests,” she said. “There are not many hotels to choose from and most are all full unless you book two to three days. And the invitations have not even been sent yet!”

While the hunt for hotel rooms continues, Lisa is relieved that the actual wedding planning has thus far been stress-free.

“Wolf has been amazing. The two ladies who run their weddings have been in the business for 25 years

LAURENWRIGHTPHOTO.COM

L

ike many brides who teach for a living, Corinne Barger is planning a summer wedding, taking advantage of summer vacation time to travel back to her hometown for the ceremony. This scenario becomes a bit more unusual, however, when the bride and the hometown are in different hemispheres.

Corinne, who grew up in Cumming, now lives in Chillan, Chile. Situated deep in the Southern Hemisphere, Chile’s seasons are the opposite of those in North America. December, January and February are the months for summer vacation, so Corinne’s Georgia wedding will take place in early February.

Wrapping her brain around the opposite seasons is one of many geographical and cultural challenges facing mother-of-the-bride Jodie Barger who must handle most of the wedding preparations on behalf of her international daughter.

“There is a lot to learn and we are still learning,” she said, mentioning the particular challenge of what to do about wedding gifts. “It’s not like guests can go buy a toaster as a gift. First of all, the electrical components are different in South America, so you’d have to use an adaptor, and then there’s the cost of international shipping. I would rather not ask guests to give monetary gifts, but I’m not sure what else to do. I’m at a loss!”

Though planning a bi-continental wedding isn’t easy, Jodie and her husband Dennis are happy for Corinne, who found love in a rather unexpected way.

After graduating from Georgia Tech with a degree in international affairs and modern languages, Corinne spent two years teaching Spanish to underprivileged children in the back woods of Kentucky through Teach for America, a nonprofit organization committed to eliminating educational inequity.

Needing to practice her Spanish in order to remain fluent, Corinne discovered a website that paired people around the world according to the language they wished to learn. Thus, she met Mario, a Spanish-speaking Chilean who needed to practice his English. The two met in person when Corinne traveled to South America on vacation.

Romance soon followed. After becoming engaged, Corinne chose to move to Chile, where she now teaches English to adults and children.

The couple visited Georgia in June for a whirlwind of family visits, wedding dress shopping and a visit with Corinne’s hometown pastor, who will perform the wedding ceremony.

That visit would be their last until the actual wedding.

During the past seven months, Corinne has depended heavily on her mother and grandmother, whom she calls “her amazing support system back in the States.”

february2015 | northsidewoman.com | 27

say I do!

There’s no place like home KATHY DENNESS + TRIP STORY

K

SOUTHERNPORTRAITANDVIDEO.COM

athy and Trip Story considered several venues for their June 2014 wedding, noticing the fees and restrictions with each site and pondering how far they should ask their guests to drive. Most guests lived locally near the couple's home in Milton.

Then it dawned on Kathy that perhaps the best wedding venue was right in their own backyard…literally.

“If we were married at home, we could spend the same amount of money to fix up our backyard and improve the landscaping,” she said. “Then it would be something we could keep.”

A backyard wedding seemed a natural fit for Kathy.

“My kids were 19 and 21 at the time, and as an older bride getting married for the second time, I wanted a lower key ceremony,” she said. “In fact, I felt a bit funny trying on gowns, but my daughter helped me get over it. She told me, ‘You are beautiful and deserve to celebrate!’”

One of the biggest challenges with a backyard wedding is finding adequate parking for the guests.

Thankfully, Kathy’s neighbors were willing to help.

“We live on a three-quarter-acre lot that is not in a neighborhood, so we had to approach the property owners on the larger lots behind and next to us to see if guests could park on their land. Thankfully, they said yes.”

Then the decision had to be made “to tent or not to tent.”

“I had a vision of what I wanted,” Kathy recalled.

“Outdoor weddings are so trendy right now, with that barn style – country, rustic décor. I envisioned string lights and open air, but I was nervous about a summer wedding.

There’s a chance of rain almost every day in early June. So in the end, we got a tent.

String lights were added to a trellis over a low, railless deck which served as a dance floor and a deejay was hired instead of a live band, to save space.

Kathy wore a full-length lace gown, but kept it casual with flat shoes, while Trip wore a khaki suit and bow tie.

Kathy’s daughter served as maid of honor while her son and Trip’s father stood next to the groom.

After the vows, cocktails were served to 60 guests in the side yard while the bridal party moved to the front yard for photos and the backyard scene was flipped from ceremony to reception space.

“Hiring a good wedding planner is so important, or at least a day-of coordinator,” advised Kathy. “Especially when the event is held at your home. I didn’t want people

coming to me with every little problem or question. Our wedding coordinator and her staff arranged the take-down and clean-up after the wedding while Trip and I escaped to a hotel.

“It was a lot of work and it can be extra stressful having the wedding at your home where you are never ‘away’ from the planning, but in the end we were so glad we did it,” she said. “It was very special and we will always have those memories and photos from our own backyard.” ■

It’s never too late for love LINDA ARONS DEMPSEY + ERNIE PICKETT

L

inda Arons Dempsey sat alone at the American Legion Post 201 in Alpharetta, watching couples on the dance floor.

“It was something I usually never did, going somewhere like that by myself,” she recalled. “I just pretended I was meeting someone who didn’t show up.”

A widow in her 60s, she just wanted to get out of the house and enjoy a little music.

Then Ernie Pickett appeared, with his big smile, and asked her if she would like to dance.

“I’m not a good dancer, but he is,” Linda said. “You can’t help but have a good time with him.”

After several more dances and a few lunch dates, romance was in the air.

This will be the third trip down the aisle for Linda, and she intends to make it memorable.

“I was too young to know anything at my first wedding, and for my second, we just went to the courthouse,” she said. “So at this wedding, I want it all. I’ve already picked out my white dress and got the garter. I want flowers, a cake, the whole thing.”

Between the two of them, Linda and Ernie have seven children and seven grandchildren. Planning an event with that many schedules to coordinate presents quite a challenge. The couple finally selected a May date and arranged for out-of-town relatives to fly in, only to learn that one of the granddaughters graduates on that day.

Linda takes it all in stride. She’s waited 66 years for her dream wedding and is willing to be a little flexible.

28 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

“Well, maybe we’ll go rent a big house in Gulf Shores that sleeps 20,” she said. “I’d like a beach wedding.

I’ve already got the dress, so I’ll just go barefoot in the sand!” ■

women in business

Networking event connects

women in business

GNFCC Women in Business Committee members present for the breakfast included, front row from left, Helen Bausano (GNFCC), Tara Landy (North Fulton Hospital), Kerstin Sommer-Raza (Doubletree Hotel), Alli Neal (Revved Up Kids); back row from left, Cathy Lane (Keller-Williams), Gloria Mattei (Nothing Bundt Cakes), Deborah Lanham (GNFCC), Donna Smythe (CDA), Rita Evans (Merrill Lynch), Beth Cayce (CaraVita Home Care).

the date” for their annual WIB Luncheon on May 6 at the Atlanta Athletic Club in Johns Creek.

Deborah Lanham, vice president of business development for the chamber and lead on the WIB program,

introduced this year’s working committee and shared the value of a strong network of women in business.

“We connect differently and understand that women can accomplish so much more when we work together,” Lanham said.

Rd Holco mb B ridge Rd

Future quarterly breakfast events are being scheduled, and a fall “digging deeper” panel discussion is also in the planning stages. For more information about the GNFCC Women in Business, contact Lanham at dlanham@gnfcc.com. ■

Call for an appointment or drop by and see the showroom!

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MaryJo Alton, Owner

Eves Rd

specific business, professional expertise and personal interests.

“I think this morning was one of the most fun, successful networking events I have ever attended. It was light, personal and engaging, and the format was brilliant,” said Donna Smythe, executive director of the Child Development Center in Roswell.

The chamber shared a brief overview of the 2015 WIB initiatives including a “save

GA 400

G

reater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce’s (GNFCC) Women in Business (WIB) group kicked off the year with a breakfast networking event at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Roswell on Jan. 23.

More than 130 women connected in a very meaningful and unique way. Each had the opportunity to meet three women they had never met before and learn about her

2612 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Suite 110 Alpharetta, GA 30022

Showroom: 470-268-7787 Cell: 404-775-0982 snappykitchens.com/showroom/snappy-kitchens-atlanta february2015 | northsidewoman.com | 29

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february2015 | northsidewoman.com | 31

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ometimes cuteness is packaged in the tiniest of packages. Meet Murana, an ittybitty Chihuahua/Jack Russell Terrier mix who is barely 2 months old. She was one of 46 animals rescued from a rural South Georgia shelter by Angels Among Us Pet Rescue last month during Operation Invisible Paws. Now Murana, along with the others, is safely in a foster home and looking for her forever home. Her foster mom reports that she is an adorable, feisty little girl with a personality many times bigger than her tiny size. She sleeps in a crate at night and spends the day in the arms of her foster mom. Murana is fully vetted and current on vaccinations. To adopt Murana, or any of the pets rescued during Operation Invisible Paws, visit the Angels Among Us website at www.angelsrescue.org. ■

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orth Atlanta is a hub for trendy-yet-refined interior decor. With plenty of brick and mortar stores to choose from, the difficult part is picking which styles best reflect your personality and taste. Below, experts offer their views on the staples and fads.

Space Planning

S

pace planning is one of the most important aspects of interior design.

It can also be one of the most costly mistakes. These plans can be done by an interior designer through computer programs or hand drafting. It is essential to have a space plan before beginning design selections in any area.

Functionality of the room should be custom designed based upon the needs of the individual in regards to the space. The plan will help to address awkward spaces and maximize the use of existing space.

They will also help incorporate priceless family heirlooms or other “must have” pieces into the design space.

By having a drafted plan, you have a set of directions to follow. This eases anxiety while making selections by providing strict guidelines for the size and scale of furnishings. Designing space plans also gives you an opportunity to explore options and determine focal points for space as well as determine a preference for symmetrical balance or the unexpected.

Furnishings always appear different in a showroom than they will in your home. The ceiling height and square footage of the space will always dictate what will compliment your room without dominating or getting lost in your space.

It is also vital to be sure there is ample room for pulling out a chair or moving around. Remember to measure doorways prior to purchases to assure delivery. By staying true to your design plan you will be able to move forward with confidence when making decorative selections. ■

Jill Awbrey is an Interior Decorator for Tuscany Fine Furnishings, Offering Life Style Fine Furnishings, Decorative Accessories and Design Services for Every Room in Your Home! 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd. in Roswell, tuscanyfinefurnishings.com, 770-993-0640 ext. 2 open Mon-Sat 10-6 p.m. Sun. 1-5 p.m.

GETTING DOWN TO BRASS TACKS

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any of us have homes with lots of brass. Brass cabinet knobs, door knobs, faucets and more, the brass seems to have seen better days and is decidedly unpopular.

Fortunately, there are options available.

If you want to transition slowly to a new finish, try antique brass or an oil rubbed finish. The nice two tone of oil rub can handle the brass where sometimes satin and polished nickel might be too of a departure.

Antique brass is getting lots of attention because it allows you to segue into a different finish. It has a nice subtle

hue that’s very neutral and less dated than brass. This means you don’t have to take the total plunge into the nickel finishes. You can mix with oil rubbed with antique brass and use your dollars more wisely over time. ■

Mary Jo Alton, Owner, 2612 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Ste 110, Alpharetta, GA 30022 470-268-7787 SnappyKitchens.com/showroom /snappy-kitchens-atlanta

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PAID ADVERTISEMENT

A Divine Event Donates a $75,000 Wedding to Bert’s Big Adventure charity for terminally ill children Once a year The Bert Show on Atlanta’s Q100 radio station promotes a charity event called “Bert’s Big Adventure”. Bert’s Big Adventure gives children with chronic or terminal disease an all expenses paid first class trip to Walt Disney World for an entire week. This auction raises the money required to take each child’s family as well as a medical team to care for the children during the trip.

As the featured Live Auction item, we raised a substantial sum for the special families of Bert’s Big Adventure.

For the past two years, the Country Club of Roswell has held live and silent auctions in order to raise money to contribute to this charity. This year A Divine Event and Little Gardens were pleased to participate for the second year by donating a wedding package valued at $75,000 for their Featured Live Auction. Together with our vendors, we donated the following services to make one special bride’s wedding dreams come true: • Seated Served dinner at Little Gardens, one of Magic Moments’ award-winning venues • Catering by A Divine Event • Top Shelf Full Premium bar • Floral décor package up to a $20,000 value • Couture wedding gown • Customized wedding cake • Custom designed linens • Invitations by Swoozies • DJ Services by Black Tie Events • Designer wedding shoes • Professional Photography Package by Blume Photography • Limousine services by Cooper-Atlanta Transportation • Wedding dance and choreography with Rachel’s Dance Lessons The auction took place on August 17, 2013 at the Country Club of Roswell.

The highest bidding couple, Ashley Perkins and Andy Knutson, won the featured auction for $28,000, with all proceeds going to Bert’s Big Adventure. Their wedding took place at Little Gardens on July 24, 2014. “Giving away a fully inclusive wedding such as this is something that you see on Oprah but not every day in Atlanta,” says Nicole Hufnagel, Event Designer at A Divine Event. “When I heard about it on the radio, I knew right away that it was something A Divine Event would want to be a part of. When I presented the idea to the rest of our team, everyone was on board immediately. What a wonderful opportunity it has been to be involved with this project from its conception.

38 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

february2015 | northsidewoman.com | 39

she says yes!

PHOTOS BY ROBIN NATHAN PHOTOGRAPHY.

The Proposal

With a little planning, you can capture the magic when he pops the question!

By KATIE VANBRACKLE katie@northsiewoman.com

P

rofessional photographer Devon Morgan shares her own proposal story as well as some tips for nervous grooms-to-be on how to make sure a camera is ready (and well hidden!) when it’s time to go down on one knee.

What do you enjoy most about photographing proposals?

I love photographing proposals because there’s a happiness and excited energy that I just can’t recreate after the fact. The bride is usually giddy with happiness and physically can’t stop smiling, which makes for the most natural and charismatic photos. Regardless of how naturally “cuddly” a couple is together, the chemistry that comes along with those first few moments after the ring hits that finger is nearly impossible to recreate.

How do you handle the element of surprise?

The challenges that come along with proposal shoots are what make them different than any other shoot. We have to stay hidden, but close enough to get good shots.

We use big telephoto zoom lenses to help with this, but they often aren’t the easiest to keep steady in low light, and many proposals happen in the evenings. In an ordinary shoot, we’d “fix” that problem by using a tripod, which isn’t the easiest to lug around if you’re trying to be a stealthy photographer creeping through the shadows.

The other tough factor is that you don’t know when it’s coming. Regardless of how much pre-planning goes into the shoot, dinner reservations run over, traffic delays the arrival time, the unsuspecting soon-to-be fiancé sees a store she wants to run into, and the boyfriend can’t really tell her she can’t go in without ruining the surprise. You just have to make a plan, and then plan on changing it six 40 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

times and being really flexible. It’s part of the fun.

Any tips for choosing a proposal photographer?

Make sure you pick someone who’s easy-going. When delays happen, you don’t want a photographer who’s going to start calling your phone trying to figure out where you are and ruin the surprise, or double the quoted price without notice if you’re a few minutes late.

Make sure the photographer has high-end equipment specifically made to handle really low light situations without being grainy. If you’re trying to stay hidden, you can’t exactly start using a really bright flash on the couple as they start walking towards the proposal spot.

Once you’ve chosen your photographer, plan in advance, if you have time, and discuss things like ideal location, timing and lighting, to ensure the least amount of surprises. If you have a sentimental spot where you’re planning on proposing, a professional should be prepared for just about any setting and be able to anticipate any surprises or hurdles long before you get down on one knee.

Tell me about your own surprise proposal. Did you suspect or were you truly surprised? What do those photos mean to you now?

Early on in our relationship, Joe made going out for a nice dinner something that didn’t need an occasion. So, when I called him on my Friday drive home one week to vent about a tough day at work, he said “Don’t stress, let me take you out to dinner tomorrow and get your mind off of it.” So he made reservations at our favorite restaurant, told me to put on a nice dress and that we’d have a fun night out on the town…and by the way, he said his boss gave him tickets to this thing going on at The High Museum.

Joe McKenna popped the question to Devon Morgan in front of the High Museum of Art in midtown Atlanta.

So, about ten minutes before we’re supposed to leave, Joe is primping his hair for the 4th time and I’m still on the couch in a t-shirt watching Scandal reruns. By the 3rd time Joe asks “Shouldn’t you get ready?” I get up, throw a little makeup on and we head out the door.

When we get to the High, it’s drizzling and I’m a little confused when we start walking down the sidewalk towards Peachtree Street rather than towards the door to get out of the rain. On the way, I spy a photographer around the corner, and, like a true photographer myself, I start admiring her zoom lenses, thinking nothing of it.

Not until we’re in front of the museum and Joe drops to a knee do I realize what was happening and that the photographer is taking photos of us. I was shocked. As someone who shoots proposals, I should have been able to figure it out, but the photos she captured were so great because I was completely surprised and so happy.

The moment was truly a blur, but I’m so thankful to have those pictures to remember that moment and someday show our kids. After Joe proposed, the photographer led us around the High, which was where Joe and I had one of our first dates, and did a mini engagement session on the grounds. I’m naturally much more comfortable BEHIND the camera, as most people are, so the sheer joy of the day made me completely forget that we were having our picture taken and it really shows in the photos. ■

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Who is your favorite

?

Do you know an Unsung She’ro who works tirelessly?

A fabulously creative artist, author or musician?

Talented teacher or mentor?

Successful businesswoman or entrepreneur?

Outstanding athlete or fitness guru?

Or a best friend, mom or neighbor with an inspiring, funny or touching story to share?

We want to hear from you!!

Northside Woman is all about celebrating and connecting the amazing women who live in the North Fulton and South Forsyth communities of Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, Johns Creek and Cumming – helping you get to know your neighbors and build business and social networks which allow women to support and encourage each other.

Please share your story ideas with our staff by emailing Editor Katie VanBrackle at katie@northsidewoman.com.

42 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

february2015 | northsidewoman.com | 43

herstyle

PHOTO BY ABBY BREAUX/STAFF

Classic Romantic Style

2015 trends for bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride dresses

BODICE.

E

AFTER SIX BY DE

very bride wants her special day to be unique and reflect her individual tastes and style. With Pinterest and the numerous wedding blogs on the Internet, a bride-to-be is influenced by overwhelming options for décor, flowers, food and wardrobe for the wedding party.

One lasting trend is to create an atmosphere of ethereal romance.

Here are some of the trends for bridesmaid dresses and mother-of-the-bride dresses in 2015.

recommended Dessy’s Alfred Sung line for its variety of knee-length gowns, with box pleats on the skirt, fabric belts and pockets. These are perfect for laid-back style or backyard weddings. Dessy’s After Six line carries full-length gowns for formal or evening weddings. Many bridesmaids are choosing the goddess style gowns with gathered fabric on fitted bodices and long flowing skirts. The waist is emphasized with belt or fabric detailing. The deep cut V-neck is Castro’s favorite. It is usually filled in with mesh fabric. High round-neck halter styles are also popular this year. All of these dresses are available in a rainbow of colors, but order soon as construction usually takes three months.

SSY WITH LACE

By LORI WYNNE

A bride wants to be surrounded by her “besties,” and close female relatives on her wedding day. A compassionate bride will want the women in her wedding party to look their personal best on the wedding day.

Since her friends and family come in all shapes, sizes and perhaps different age ranges, many brides are opting for a uniform color and leaving the style of the dress to the individual bridesmaid. The maid of honor also has a significant vote in the style of dress the wedding party will wear.

Style:

I visited Bravura, a well-stocked formal and bridal boutique at the Collection in Cumming, to see what local wedding parties are choosing this year. Daniela Castro, a sales consultant at Bravura, likes the brand Dessy for the quality of construction, variety of styles and moderate price range. Dessy has a few different lines to accommodate the different tastes of today’s bride. Castro 44 | northsidewoman.com | february2015

ALFRED SUNG BY DESSY.

For bridesmaids:

Brides are choosing soft, romantic colors for their bridesmaid dresses. Blush pink and oyster (think soft, warm gray) are very popular.

Blush is a color that looks good on all skin tones and is a wonderful complementary color to many wedding color schemes. Many brides begin choosing their color scheme by choosing their own wedding dress first.

Castro says many brides are choosing ivory for their wedding dress color. Blush and oyster pair very well with ivory.

The color experts at Pantone have declared Marsala to be the color of the year in 2015. It is brownish red and has a warm earthiness to it. Consider using this in the small details of the wedding: lipstick, nail color, small Marsalacolored flowers in the bouquets, bow ties or men’s socks.

Some brides may embrace this warm trendy color by having their groom wear a Marsala-colored jacket. Blush, tan and taupe pair beautifully with Marsala.

Fabric:

Following the soft romantic theme, chiffon is a popular choice of fabric for bridesmaid floor-length skirts.

The soft gathers and flowing fabric look good on all body types. It has nice movement when walking and in a gentle breeze.

Lace bodices are very popular right now. Nude, tan or ivory lining underneath, regardless of the color the lace, updates this look for 2015.

Mesh is also very popular.

It adds color and coverage without a lot of bulk. This is usually found on the neckline or shoulders of bridesmaid dresses.

Dupioni is a wonderful fabric for knee-length dresses.

It has weight and sheen much like shantung silk. It is available in a variety of colors. It is great when choosing a style that incorporates box pleats in the skirt and pockets, which is very popular with bridesmaids.

DESSY GOWN IN BLUSH.

Color:

2015 color tip:

Accessories:

Some wedding parties are choosing to accessorize with headbands. Think hippy/boho look or Gatsby’s 1920s look.

Some headbands are a simple string of small pearls; others are loaded with dimensional flowers made from mother-of-pearl. The one thing they all have in common is they are white, ivory or gray. Think of them as a neutral accessory to add to your colored dresses.

TOP. GOWN WITH ME SH

Out of style for 2015 bridesmaids:

Sequins, red, black and high-low hemlines.

For the mother-of-the-bride/groom:

Color:

Final tip when wearing formal wear:

Foundation wear is a must for the best fit and look.

Invest in Spanx or at least nude seamless underwear. If you are wearing a dress that does not accommodate a traditional bra, make sure bra cups are sewn into the bodice. ■

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE OR GROO

Typically, the mother wears a dress with a little more coverage. Even if you have an amazing décolletage and sculpted arms, you don’t want to out-shine the bride on her special day.

ADRIANNA PAPELL DRESS FOR

Many mothers are choosing a subtle bling on their dresses; a bit of sequin or shimmer in the fabric.

Castro at Bravura recommends the Adrianna Papell line. “It has a hint of conservative, but still kind of sexy.

Great for a younger mother-of-thebride.” She also recommends Tadashi brand for sophisticated style that is “covered and classic.”

ALFRED ANGELO

DESSY GOWN

LOR. IN OYSTER CO

Style:

Do not wear the same color as the bridesmaids.

Choose a neutral color such as taupe, deeper gray, nude or blush (if the bridesmaids are not wearing it.)

Fabric:

M.

Lace is in and is used in floor-length and knee-length dresses. Many mothers are choosing cap sleeve or half sleeve in lace. Fabrics with a metallic sheen are a new classic as well.

As a personal wardrobe consultant and owner of Alpharetta-based Fashion With Flair, Lori Wynne helps people look their best. Contact her at fashionwithflair.com.

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wedding tips and tricks

Design your own wedding jewelry at Kendra Scott in Alpharetta

By ABBY BREAUX

K

I

t all starts with your dress!

Many of our brides are shocked to find “THE dress” on their first visit to Wedding Angels Bridal Boutique.

When shopping with us, be prepared to fall in love with one of our gowns! With hundreds of sample gowns in our inventory and the expertise of our enthusiastic staff, it is not at all unusual to find your dream gown with ease! The experience is fun, enjoyable, and drama-free at Wedding Angels- don’t question yourself just because you’re surprised it was so effortless. Finding your dream gown is not the end of your experience, it’s just the beginning! ■ Wedding Angels Bridal Boutique 395 South Atlanta Street, Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 645-0404 www.WeddingAngels.com

endra Scott, in Alpharetta’s new Avalon development, offers jewelry for everyday style or special occasions, including customizable pieces at their Color Bar where DIY brides can create the exact look they want for their big day.

This month’s cover bride, Sarah Kindregan, recently purchased her bridesmaids gifts from the Kendra Scott Color Bar. Kindregan loved that she could tailor each bridesmaid’s gift to their personality.

“This jewelry can be worn every day or for special occasions, so I know these gifts will be enjoyed for many years to come and not just for the wedding,” she said.

With so many options available, Kindregan made her choice with the help of her mom and the staff at Kendra Scott. “They were so patient in helping me decide which jewel would be best for my bridesmaids,” Kindregan said. “I would definitely recommend the Color Bar to other brides because it’s a great way to give a personalized gift to the special girls in your life and show them how much you appreciate their love and support, not just on the big day, but always.”

When booking an in-store Color Bar party at Kendra Scott, guests can enjoy

B

efore visiting your florist to discuss wedding flowers, here are few things to consider: Choosing a color scheme should be your first decision. Paint sample cards from the home improvement store work well. Picking three to four color/shades will help your designer with the pallet.

Look at different styles of bouquets and decide if you like tight and round, loose and airy, or maybe cascading. The color and style of your wedding flowers will define the look and feel of the entire event.

Next, find out what your wedding venue provides for the guest tables.

Using some of those items may help with your budgeting.

After choosing your florist, be sure to ask for a design sample to ensure your vision and that of your designer are one and the same. ■ Sid Flowers, Flowers From Us 825 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 640-6007 www.FlowersfromUs.net

CONSULTANT: Gail C. Goldberg, EdS MONTHS AND SEASONS: Poems for Young Readers.

Gail’s brother Randy, helped her write this beautiful book and she did all the illustrations.

This book is a wonderful companion to Gail’s first book Animals A-Z: Poems for Early Readers. Gail and Randy had a great time going down memory lane and thinking of past holidays and special events throughout a year in their lives and those of their children. This book is dedicated to their dear friend Carol Davis. Contact Gail at gigiconsulting@aol. com or Randy at Randy@webtv.com to order your book ($18) plus shipping.

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wedding tips and tricks

champagne and cupcakes while designing jewelry to perfectly compliment any wedding style. The Color Bar is available online as well. To learn more visit www.kendrascott.com or call (678) 392-3886. ■ Kendra Scott, Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (678) 392-3886 www.KendraScott.com

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here are many things to consider when wedding planning, but undoubtedly one’s hairstyle for that big day is a priority. When it comes to bridal hair services, it’s not just as easy as picking out that perfect style.

At Scandals The Hair Salon, we specialize in walking our brides through the decision making process of hair services for their special day. One of the biggest decisions in that process is deciding where the hair should be done. The styling could be done on sight or in the salon setting. The two options have their pros and cons. Timing is a another major factor. As experienced wedding stylists, we have a system and make a schedule of bridesmaids and other various needs. For large weddings this is cruial. Your wedding day should be a wonderful experience from dawn until dusk. We strive to cater to our brides to assure the day runs smoothly and is magical. ■ Scandals The Hair Salon, 970 North Point Drive, 21, Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 712-3592 www.ScandalstheHairSalon.com

C

ongratulations! Now you have to choose the venue for all the events that surround your wedding. You want it to reflect your style but also be easy on the logistics. We love when the following answers are known: How much of the event can we do for you: rehearsal dinner, wedding, reception, brunch? What about your audience? Will they need a place to stay? Can we help you with booking a block of rooms? How many guests are you expecting? Any food issues/sensitivity or cultural norms we need to know about? We are a fantastic wedding venue because we are able to accommodate almost every unique taste, tradition or time. Make sure you verbalize and we understand what you are looking for. Bring us pictures, quotes, and definitions.

We are your one-stop destination and are looking forward to working with you. ■ Donna Seiver, Sales Manager Direct (678) 352-3118 | Fax (770) 993 6539 DoubleTree by Hilton Atlanta/Roswell 1075 Holcomb Bridge Road Roswell, GA 30076 www.AtlantaRoswell.Doubletree.com february2015 | northsidewoman.com | 47

We Donate To

Every time you use 770Tree.com to request an estimate, Appen-Rated makes a donation to North Fulton Community Charities or The Drake House.

Do good & get great tree work too!

Pre-Screened Local Tree services.

We do all the homework, so you don’t have to.

You’re never more than 2 clicks away on your smart phone, tablet or desktop.

Screened and vetted local services From

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todo

All month Roswell Roots Festival The city of Roswell celebrates Black History Month with a series of unique and fun events for everyone. Roswell Roots is the largest and most comprehensive celebration of black history and culture in the state of Georgia, including special exhibits, concerts, workshops, art, cooking demonstrations, storytelling and drama.

To view the complete list of events, go to www.roswellgov.com.

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Roswell Restaurant Week Through Feb. 8. Enjoy Roswell’s finest fare when many of the area’s best restaurants offer a prix-fixe, three-course menu consisting of an appetizer, a main course and a delicious dessert for a special rate. Thirty-five restaurants participated in 2014, and more than 50 are expected in 2015. Details at www.roswellrestaurantweek.com

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Roswell Library Book Sale 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Sale continues February 6-8 from 1 – 4:30 p.m. Shop for a large selection of books in all genres.

Proceeds benefit Friends of the Roswell Library. 115 Norcross St., Roswell. www.forl.net

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Cupid Chase 5K Road Race 8 a.m. Whether you are running away from Cupid’s arrow or madly in love, the PT Solutions Physical Therapy Cupid Chase 5K is for all skill levels and age groups and benefits Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research. One-yearold North Fulton resident Mary Elizabeth Paris, diagnosed in 2014 with acute myeloid leukemia, is the inspiration for the race. Register online at PTSSports.com or in the PTS Store in Roswell where the race will start. Sweet Apple Village, 12050 Etris Road, Roswell.

FEBRUARY as art projects, a puppet show, a cooking demonstration, mascot dance competition, a Green Market, rain barrel workshop and more. Free. Hembree Park, 850 Hembree Road, Roswell. www.roswellgreenexpo.org 6th annual Bowls Event in Johns Creek 3 – 6 p.m. Celebrate art, food and fun at this annual event providing an opportunity to purchase handmade pottery created by exceptional ceramic instructors and students at the Johns Creek Arts Center.

With a $20 ticket, choose from over 300 beautiful ceramic pieces and enjoy a variety of chilis and other refreshments.

Also enjoy ceramic wheel and handbuilding demonstrations. Entrance is free for the family with one ticket purchase.

Johns Creek Arts Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700, Johns Creek. www.johnscreekarts.org LIVE! in Roswell presents Ruthie Foster 8 p.m. Two-time Grammy nominee Ruthie Foster brings her blend of soul, blues, rock, folk and gospel to Roswell. With a strong, clear and impossibly soulful voice, Foster excels at richly textured music painted in blues. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased at www.roswellcac.com

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Chattahoochee Challenge 10K 8 a.m. “Fly Like the Birds” at the 14th annual Chattahoochee Challenge 10K! This Peachtree Road Race qualifier and CNC fundraiser takes place on a flat, fast and scenic course along the banks of the river. The 10K begins at 8 a.m. with a 1-mile Fun Run at 8:05 a.m. $30. Register online at Active.com or at any Big Peach Running Company store. Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. www.Chattnaturecenter.org Valentine’s Day Chef Demonstration 7 p.m. Turn the lights down low, light the candles, put on some Barry White and leave the cooking to the pros at Publix Aprons Cooking School. Watch and learn as a chef prepares amuse bouche, spice-dusted sea scallops with grapefruitavocado salad, ricotta gnudi with sage and brown butter, roasted beef tenderloin with mushroom ragout, duchess potatoes and chocolate three ways. $50. Publix, 4305 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta.

Publix.com/aprons/schools/Alpharetta A Romantic Valentine’s Day Concert 7:30 p.m. The Ludwig Symphony Orchestra presents a Valentine’s concert featuring Mexico’s sensational violinist Anabel Ramirez performing Paganini’s “The Bells,” and Atlanta’s own premiere bass, Ben Polite, interpreting arias of Wagner and Rossini. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. $22. Tickets may be purchased by calling 770-623-8623 or online at www.ludwigsymphony.org

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Mardi Gras Party at Salud!

Cooking School

6 – 9 p.m. Grab your feather boa and your purple, green and gold beads…it’s time to celebrate Mardi Gras with a hands-on cooking demonstration inside Whole Foods at Avalon. Prepare traditional Cajun and Creole dishes including New Orleans barbecue shrimp, mufflettas, garlic cheese grits and grillades and Creole bread pudding. King cake will be served! $55 Salud Cooking School, Whole Foods Market, 2800 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/service/ salud-cooking-school-4

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“Homers” by Georgia Ensemble Theatre 8 p.m. Shows continue through March 15. Leigh Elder, a female sportswriter for a major Atlanta newspaper is a “homer,” loyal to the Braves, Hawks and Falcons. When a dream job in L.A. falls in her lap, she is thrilled. The only thing standing in her way is her biggest fan: her father. Can a homer ever really leave home? Loyalty and love can be tough in the big leagues! Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. www.Get.org

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“Les Miserables” at Aurora Theatre 8 p.m. Shows continue through March 1. Hunted relentlessly by police inspector Javert for breaking parole, Jean Valjean must leave his past behind and keep his vow to raise the young, orphaned Cosette amid revolution. The intimacy of the Aurora Theatre makes audiences feel like part of the show. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. www.auroratheatre.com

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Roswell Green Expo 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Keep Roswell Beautiful announces the Roswell Green Expo, featuring family-friendly activities such

Theatre Company production is a great play for a date night! Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. www.playhousecumming.com

“Love Letters” at Cumming Playhouse

8 p.m. Performances continue through March 8. Through hand-written letters, follow the lives of Andrew and Melissa, childhood friends who become romantically attached even as life pulls them down separate paths. This Gypsy

Atlanta Ballet’s “Roméo et Juliette” 8 p.m. A startlingly fresh take on the wellknown Shakespeare masterpiece, JeanChristophe Maillot’s “Roméo et Juliette” live with the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra envelops you in the tantalizing power of young, forbidden love. An ideal way to spend Valentine’s Day with your special someone. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta. www.cobbenergycentre.com

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Jog for a Cause in Milton 7:30 a.m. The city of Milton presents the 12th annual Jog for a Cause to the community as part of the 6th annual Milton Mayor’s Run, including a 5K race and Tot Trot. Jog for a Cause benefits the fight against childhood cancer. The route will begin and end at Milton’s Freedom Park, located at the corner of Deerfield Parkway and Webb Road. Cost is $25. ■ www.cityofmiltonga.us

KING’S RIDGE HAS PREPARED ME TO

“Getting it done in the weight room prepares me to be a leader on the field. It’s a great life lesson.

Hard work, dedication and knowing my strengths help prepare me to handle whatever comes my way.”

JOSH CARTER

KRCS Student

SCHEDULE A TOUR Currently accepting applications for fall 2015.

Contact admissions@kingsridgecs.org to schedule a tour.

2765 Bethany Bend [ Alpharetta, GA 30004 [ 770.754.5738 www.kingsridgecs.org

King’s Ridge Christian School practices a non-discriminatory policy of admission.

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