My midtown fall 2016

my Midtown MY

HOME•MY

FA M I LY • M Y

SELF FALL 2016

Pull Out andSave!

Fall Fun Calendar Taste of Atlanta, Body Art Cabaret, Martinis & IMAX® and More! p. 14-15

Meet Your Neighbors

An Event Designer, a Restauranteur and an Arts Advocate Raise the Bar in Midtown p.17

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From the Publisher

my Midtown

M Y H O M E • M Y H E A LT H • M Y F A M I LY

Meet Atlanta Best Media

PRESIDENT/FOUNDER Sherri Adair

While you may know us by the names of our publications, Best Self Atlanta magazine and Atlanta Home Improvement magazine, our company, Atlanta Best Media, has supported the city through print and digital publications, promotions and give-back events for more than 15 years.

And now we are on the move!

PUBLISHER Patti Stephens ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Jennifer Prins

We are very excited to combine the “best” of our home-improvement and self-improvement expertise to deliver the newest magazine by our Atlanta Best Media family directly into your Midtown mailboxes this month. My Midtown is 100 percent dedicated to community-specific content and resources to help you live your best Sandy Springs life while focusing on your home, health and family.

my

MY

•MY HOME

MANAGING EDITOR Stacy Moser CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Katherine Michalak

SELF

Y•MY FAMIL

FALL 2016

Pull Out and Save!

Fall Fun Calendar

EDITORIAL/SOCIAL MEDIA ASSISTANTS Alex McCray Sarah Zeigler

Festivals, tain the Rock Chas ert, Conc s Happening Halloween 16-17 and More p.

my East Cobb Meet Your

DIRECTOR OF CONTENT MARKETING David Leonard

M Y H O M E • M Y H E A LT H • M Y F A M I LY

Neighbors

Summer Fun

SUMMER 2016

cate and

Life rs, an Advo Pull-out Music Love rate Family dor Celeb an Ambassa gs p.19 Calendar in Sandy Sprin

Concerts, ’Hood Good in the Farmers Markets, ness • Doing Health & Happi Fireworks and Garden • My More My Home & p. 16-17

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Meet Your ead yBhbor uckh mNeig s M Y F A M I LY •

Y H O M E • M

M Y

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My Home & Garden • My Health

Pull Out and Save!

GRAPHIC DESIGN/PRODUCTION Miguel Velázquez

S E L F

SUMMER 2016

A Chef, a Sportswear Entrepreneur and an Interior Designer Add to the Energy of East Cobb

19

& Happiness • Doing Good in the

ART DIRECTOR Dona Halliday

’Hood

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Summer Fun Calendar

5/19/16 8:52 PM

Concerts, Farmers Markets, Fireworks and More p. 16-17

my Alpharetta

Meet Your ighbors Ne Summer M Y

H O M E • M Y

F A M I LY • M Y

Pull Out and Save!

S E L F

SUMMER 2016

an Advocate An Entrepreneur, Brighten & TV Personality Community Buckhe theConcer ts,ad Firewor Farmers Market ks, s, ’Hood and More p. 14-1 • Doing Good in the 5 Health & Happiness • My

Fun Calendar

PMylusHome & Garden

19

Date Night Ideas and Food Faves

Dawn DeSantis ddesantis@atlantabestmedia.com

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Meet Your Neighbors Home & Garden

Carmen Koehler ckoehler@atlantabestmedia.com

17

• My Health & Happine

ss • Doing Good

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in the ’Hood

RE HOME TOUR

home atlantaEM ENT HUMAN ATLAN

TA 2016 MA!

ARCHITECTU WWW.ATLAN

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H O M E

T V E M E N I M P R O

TAHOMEIMP

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S S T A R T

Susan Lesesne slesesne@atlantabestmedia.com

58 & 59 6/30/16 4:58 PM

®

JUNE 2016

A Wellness Entrepre neur, a Closet Guru and Add to the Energy a Fitness Travel Guide of Alpharetta

DESIGN IS

Kim Cooper kcooper@atlantabestmedia.com

6/23/16 2:55 PM

MyBH_001-Cover_0716

P lus My

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Candace Bivins cbivins@atlantabestmedia.com

H E R E

s:

Buying Guide

Kitchen Sinks: The Workhorse 17 p.

Fashionistas

The Indoors Moves 55 Out: Decks p.

Real Story Homeowners’ Home A Marietta

on Goes Modern Free” FOX’s “Home p. 50

OFFICE MANAGER Gail Sawyer

s PLUS! Hundred to of resources your help you with ment home improve projects p. 85

mer Temper Sum Tech Trends Home p. 24 Heat in Your by: cover is presentedons This month’s Renovati Round Here photos and

RoundHereRenovatio (678) 227-2347

ns.com

For print, web, email and digital advertising information contact us at:

OF

APPROACH A BALANCE AND QUALITYOFFERING G, TIME-SAVING COST-CUTTIN ATIONS RECOMMEND ENHANCING

For more pages 58-59 details go to

80 West Wieuca Road, Suite 115 Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 303-9333 x15 FAX (404) 303-0030

The first of these editions—My Sandy Springs, My Buckhead, My Alpharetta, My Johns Creek, My Intown and My East Cobb—were mailed directly to 120,000 homes and distributed at hundreds of locations in those areas. Coming soon, check out My Brookhaven, My Smyrna and many more.

FALL 2016

Thank you all for supporting Atlanta Best Media and we look forward to visiting your neighborhood soon!

4

Sherri Adair, Publisher P.S. We want to hear your ideas for great date nights and ways to give back in your neighborhood. Email us at editor@atlantabestmedia.com.

MyMidtown_003-005_Publetter.indd 4

Inquiries and submissions regarding advertising and editorial should be directed to the address above. Atlanta Best Media does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear.

Readers are encouraged to notify Publisher when they suspect false advertising. Atlanta Best Media reserves the right to edit editorial for clarity and space availability. No content i.e. articles, graphics, designs and information (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Publisher.

PHOTO BY BRIAN REEVES OF PERFECT DAY PHOTOS.

Everything from great date-night ideas to ways of “doing good for the ’hood” will be at your fingertips. Also, each issue includes a seasonal calendar of events—save it to plan your fall fun!

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C NTENTS

Meet Your Neighbors Event Designer and Chef Sean O’Keefe talks about the benefits of celebrating life every day.

Restauranteur

Sachi Nakato

Did You Know?

serves up a modern twist on family tradition.

The Varsity in Midtown is the world’s largest drive-in fast-food restaurant.

Arts Advocate

Randi Layne

Hey Midtown 4 Publisher’s Letter

Meet Atlanta Best Media

Oh My!

14

25

The Best for Your Nest

13

My Health & Happiness

26

24

Look Good, Feel Good

My Family

At the Heart of the ’Hood

On the cover: Athleta Atlantic Station and Evolation Yoga put on free “Wellness Wednesday” yoga classes through Sept. 28 at Central Park. AtlanticStation.com.

Photography courtesy North American Properties.

Photo by Rafterman.

MYMidtown_006-007_TOC.indd 6

’Hood Winks

Nod to Your Neighbors

Fall Events Calendar

My Home & Garden

FALL 2016

9

11

6

’Hood Goodness

Enjoy the ’Hood

Food Faves

Tried and True or New to You

Doing Good in the ’Hood

Lend a Hand to Local Causes

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (TOP LEFT) SEAN O’KEEFE EVENTS, PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE BYARS; (TOP MIDDLE) PHOTOGRAPHY BY VIC BONVICINI PHOTOGRAPHY, HAIR & MAKEUP BY THE GREEN ROOM AGENCY; (TOP RIGHT) JR WEST; (BOTTOM) REJUVENATION.

17

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FALL 2016

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’Hood Winks Nod

to

your

neighbors

Be a part of TV’s “Family

The show is one of America’s longestrunning game shows and it’s filmed right here in Midtown. The classic family competition and host Steve Harvey will have you cracking up, but the best part—tickets are free.

285 Andrew Young Int’l Blvd. NW. On-Camera-Audiences.com/ Shows/Family_Feud

Let Fido bask in the fall weather while you watch a football game with pals at one of these dog-friendly

Visit the High Museum for a romantic date night— they offer Friday night jazz performances once a month.

1280 Peachtree St. NE. High.org One of the city’s most delicious

After dinner at The Vortex, break the ice at Laughing Skull Lounge, an intimate stand-up comedy club located behind the restaurant.

878 Peachtree St. NE. LaughingSkullLounge.com

festivals, Taste of Atlanta, returns to Midtown’s Technology Square October 21–23 and celebrates 15 years of the best bites in town.

West Peachtree St. NW. between 3rd St. & 8th St. TasteOfAtlanta.com

my

West Midtown’s craftbeer connoisseurs love Ormsby’s—complete with bocce ball, shuffleboard, darts and pool tables.

1170 Howell Mill Rd. OrmsbysAtlanta.com

outdoor patios: • Neighbor’s Pub— 752 North Highland Ave. NE • Bantam + Biddy— 1050 Crescent Ave. NE • Park Tavern— 500 10th St. NE • Henry’s—132 10th St. NE

MYMidtown_008-009_HoodWinks.indd 9

FALL 2016

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (TOP LEFT) JOE SEER / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (TOP RIGHT) TASTE OF ATLANTA; (BOTTOM RIGHT) ORMSBY’S, PHOTOGRAPY BY BRANDO AMATO AND SARAH DORIO.

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my Home & Garden best

for

your

nest

Q

What makes Midtown a big draw to potential home buyers?

Q

A: It’s one of the most sought-after neighborhoods due to its bounty of condos and historic, singlefamily homes, live-walk environment, Piedmont Park, proximity to the BeltLine and ever-appreciating home values. There’s a diverse mix of architectural styles, too, that stands the test of time.

—Mikel Muffley, Founder, Muffley & Associates Real Estate. MuffleyHomes.com

A: Rotate a rug often so it’s equally exposed to traffic and light and fades evenly.

For spills, apply salt or baking soda, let it absorb the stain, then vacuum.

—Janice Howell, V.P., MODA Floors and Interiors.

1417 Chattahoochee Ave. NW MODAFloorsAndInteriors.com

How can I make sure my area rugs age well?

If you haven’t been to Ponce City Market, do so now! Their fantastic selection of

home decor stores includes the periodauthentic lighting store Rejuvenation.

You’ll find yourself obsessing over intricate details and coveting doorknobs, light bulbs and vintage pieces. 675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE. Rejuvenation.com

Morningside residents Emily and J.C. Velez desired work-from-home flexibility, but their new home lacked an office. They worked with designer Hope Austin to create a functional room with an inviting daybed where the kids can chill while Mom and Dad log some laptop time. Facebook.com/HopeAustinInteriors

Stroll through Midtown’s urban oasis, the Atlanta Botanical Garden, in their Chihuly in the Garden exhibit, full of kaleidoscopic colors. Enjoy the exhibits by day or night—they offer extended hours until October 30. Be sure to end your tour at Linton’s, their new garden-to-table restaurant.

1345 Piedmont Ave. NE. AtlantaBG.org, LintonsInTheGarden.com

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my

FALL 2016

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (TOP LEFT) MUFFLEY & ASSOCIATES REAL ESTATE; (TOP MIDDLE) BRIAN REEVES, PERFECT DAY PHOTOS, HAIR & MAKEUP BY THE GREEN ROOM AGENCY; (TOP RIGHT) REJUVENATION; (MIDDLE LEFT) VIC BONVICINI PHOTOGRAPHY; (BOTTOM) ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN.

The

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my Health & Happiness L o o k

g o o d ,

f e e l

Q

HOW DOES HALO LASER RESURFACING REJUVENATE SUN-DAMAGED SKIN?

A: Halo Pro, the world’s first hybrid fractional laser treatment, ELIMINATES YEARS OF SUN DAMAGE by

Known for its sleek style and organically based ingredient list, popular local skincare brand Little Barn Apothecary has found a new home in Westside Provisions District.

The flagship store will carry the

FULL LINE PLUS SPECIAL SEASONAL PRODUCTS only available in the store.

1198 Howell Mill Rd. NW. LittleBarnApothecary.com

What can a little black magic do for you?

Drink up and see for yourself. The

BLACK MAGIC JUICE AT DTOX includes activated charcoal, bentonite clay, alkaline water, lemon and maple syrup to pull toxins and chemicals out of the body.

1170 Howell Mill Rd. Dtoxjuice.com Take your ride inside with the Core Cycling class at Exhale Spa. Don’t feel like spinning your wheels? GIVE THE BARRE, BOOT CAMP OR YOGA CLASSES A TRY. You can also enjoy a detoxifying coed hammam, sauna and steam room afterward. Loews Atlanta Hotel, 7th floor, 1065 Peachtree St. ExhaleSpa.com

Mitchell Anderson, the owner, founder and chef of Midtown healthy-eating staple MetroFresh, puts some of his CUSTOMERS’ FAVORITE RECIPES into reach with his first cookbook, Food & Thought. Mitchell also shares stories about his family and his career journey from Juilliard to Hollywood to Atlanta.

931 Monroe Dr. Buy the book online at MetroFreshATL.com my

FALL 2016

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (TOP LEFT) SOUTHERN INSTITUTE OF AESTHETICS; (MIDDLE LEFT) DTOX BLACK MAGIC; (TOP RIGHT) LITTLE BARN APOTHECARY; (BOTTOM RIGHT) METROFRESH.

using two lasers simultaneously at two separate depths of the skin to restore a luminous glow.

—Dr. Angela Bookout, SIA Boutique Dermatology, 691 14th St. SIADerm.com

g o o d

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my Fall Events Cale Enjoy festivals, concerts, Halloween happenings and more!

PT. SESEPT. 22 Best Self Atlanta Healthy Living Expo at Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk Turner Field 55 Hank Aaron Dr. SE 3:30pm BestSelfAtlanta.com/EventList

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (SEPT. 17–18) MUSIC MIDTOWN; (SEPT. 30) GUESSWHO, PHOTO BY SARA MEYER; (UNTIL OCT. 30) ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN; (NOV–JAN) ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN.

FALL 2016

Free Museum Day

There are more

than 65 streets with the word Peachtree in

Museum of Design Atlanta, 1315 Peachtree St. NE 10am–6pm Free MuseumOfDesign.org

Midtown Atlanta.

SEPT. 30

SEPT. 30

Body Art Cabaret

Atlanta Cheese Festival

Westside Cultural Arts Center, 760 10th St. NW 7pm Tickets start at $40 Vintage-themed variety show featuring body painters from around the world BodyArtCabaret.com

14

Did You Know?

SEPT. 24

OCT.

SEPT. 27–OCT. 2

Georgia Freight Depot, 110 Central Ave. SW 5–10pm Tickets start at $35 Sample cheeses and wine and enjoy a culinary competition TheCheeseFest.com

OCT. 21–23

The Illusionists: Live from Broadway Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. NE Times vary $33.50–$103.50 Mind-blowing magic tricks FoxTheatre.org

OCT. 29

Taste of Atlanta

Fernbank’s Boo-seum

Tech Square, 5th St. and Spring St. Sat. noon–7pm; Sun. noon–6pm Festival $25 in advance, $35 day of event; VIP $75 in advance, $85 day of event Serving food and libations from over 90 Atlanta restaurants TasteOfAtlanta.com

767 Clifton Rd. NE 10am–2pm Adults $18, children 3–12 $16, members free Halloween-themed activities, treats for kids in costume, games, music FernbankMuseum.org

Did You Know?

The building Ponce City Market occupies (originally Sears Roebuck) is the largest reuse project in Atlanta and the biggest brick building in the Southeast—it celebrated its 90th anniversary in August.

MyMidtown_014-015_Calendar.indd 14

W H AT IS TH WORLD LARGE FA S T- F O DRIVE-

NOV. 24 Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon & 5K 755 Hank Aaron Dr. SE Registration starts at 7:30am $30 50m dash, 1 mile, 5K, half marathon AtlantaTrackClub.org

9/15/16 11:17 AM

alendar Did You Know?

SEPT. 25 & OCT. 23

Plan ahead! Soon it will be time to fall back. Daylight Savings Time goes into effect at 2am on November 6.

2–6pm Free Streets are closed to cars to encourage a healthy and sustainable city-street experience AtlantaStreetsAlive.com

UNTIL OCT. 30

OCT. 8–9

OCT. 15–16

Chihuly in the Garden

Atlanta Pride Festival

Fall Festival on Ponce

Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. Adults $21.95, $15.95 for children 3–12 Tues. 9am–7pm; Wed.–Sun. 9am–5pm Artist Dale Chihuly’s exhibition of his spectacular works of glass art AtlantaBG.org/Visit/Events/Chihuly

Piedmont Park, 1320 Monroe Dr. NE Free The 46th annual festival coincides with National Coming Out Day and is the largest Pride event in the Southeast.

AtlantaPride.org

Olmsted Linear Park, 1788 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE Sat. 10am–6 pm; Sun. 11am–5pm Free FestivalOnPonce.com

Atlanta Wing Festival

W H AT S THE ORLD’S RGEST T- F O O D VE-IN?

FIND ANSWER ON TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Foundry at Puritan Mill 916 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd. NW 1:30pm $20 AtlantaWingFest.net

NOV.

NOV. 18

NOV. 4

Martinis and IMAX

®

Fernbank Museum of Natural History 767 Clifton Rd. NE Every Friday, 7–11pm Adults $13, seniors $12, members $8 Cocktails, light bites, live entertainment, dancing, movies FernbankMuseum.org

NOV.–JAN. Holiday Lights Atlanta Botanical Garden 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE 5–10pm Ticket prices TBA Tunnel of Light with Orchestral Orbs, Glittering Galaxy, Radiant Rainforest AtlantaBG.org

Harry Potter Pub Crawl 870 North Highland Ave. NE 7–11pm $30 Five pub stops, themed shots, food and drink discounts AtlantaWizardsBall.Blogspot.com

Atlanta Streets Alive

NOV. 19 Tree Lighting Atlantic Station 1380 Atlantic Dr. NW 8:30pm Free Kids’ activities, live music, Santa parade AtlanticStation.com

Did You Know?

Topgolf Atlanta Midtown is the first Topgolf location built in the heart of a city.

FALL 2016

SEPT. 25

15 MyMidtown_014-015_Calendar.indd 15

9/15/16 11:17 AM

ATLANTA’S MUST-DO FOOD, BEER, W I N E A N D C O C K TA I L F E S T I V A L

2 016

OCTOBER 21, 22, & 23

TasteOfAtlanta.com

MIDTOWN AT TECH SQUARE

FALL 2016

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (LEFT) SEAN O’KEEFE EVENTS, PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE BYARS; (MIDDLE AND RIGHT)

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

16 MyMidtown_016-023_Profiles.indd 16

9/14/16 2:27 PM

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (LEFT) SEAN O’KEEFE EVENTS, PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE BYARS; (MIDDLE) JR WEST; (RIGHT) VIC BONVICINI PHOTOGRAPHY, HAIR AND MAKEUP

BY THE GREEN ROOM AGENCY.

Meet Your

NEIGHBORS

Sean O’Keefe, Event Designer | Randi Layne, Arts Advocate | Sachi Nakato, Restauranteur

MyMidtown_016-023_Profiles.indd 17

9/15/16 11:52 AM

P R O FIL E

Sean O’Keefe

CHEF • EVENT DESIGNER • PHILANTHROPIST

P

remiere event designer Sean O’Keefe was born and raised in St. John’s, Newfoundland, but headed out to the United States’

West Coast at age 25. There, he built a successful career as a private chef, establishing himself as a go-to for the Hollywood set. He created more than just a delicious meal for his clients, he presented a full dining experience. Paying close attention to all the little details is part of how Sean approaches his mission “to make life eventful.” In 2008, life led him to the Atlanta area and he feels that he’s now finally putting down some roots.

[

IF YOU

SHOW UP

[

FALL 2016

“Moving from Southern California to Fulton County was a bit of a shock,” Sean recalls. “I loved Georgia within moments of moving here.

Somehow it reminded me of Newfoundland; I think the Southern charm that Atlanta offered made me feel like I was home.”

18 MyMidtown_016-023_Profiles.indd 18

Sean soon realized that his career would take a slightly different direction here. One day, as this avid horseman spent time at the stables, he chatted with a woman there who asked him if he knew who could help her create a Derby-themed event to raise money for a charity. The proverbial “light bulb” illuminated for Sean and the business that became Sean O’Keefe Events was a champion right out of the gate. “The Down Home Derby to benefit the Child Development Association was the first event I created in conjunction with a charity partner in Georgia. Over the years there have been quite a few— including my pride and joy, the Shaken Not Stirred Gala to benefit the Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance and the Chairman’s Tent at the Atlanta Steeplechase. Working alongside some of Georgia’s most incredible nonprofits to create events that increase their profile and donor base has been very rewarding.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF SEAN O’KEEFE EVENTS, PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE BYARS.

FOR ATLANTA, IT’LL SHOW UP FOR YOU.

9/15/16 9:58 AM

Sean’s

Simple Entertaining Tips

SEAN VIEWS ENTERTAINING AS A WAY TO CELEBRATE LIFE AND HONOR FRIENDSHIPS—FROM SPREADING OUT SUMMERTIME PICNIC FUN WITH CHRISTINE PULLARA ON ATLANTA & CO. (TOP) TO CREATING GORGEOUS FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR LUXE TABLESCAPES (TOP RIGHT) TO PILING UP THE PERFECT CHEESE PLATE FOR COCKTAIL HOUR (BOTTOM).

Sean exudes commitment to this city and its people. He shares his creativity, knowledge and spirit with a palpable enthusiasm, truly hoping to inspire a chain reaction. “Any moment in life can be eventful if you choose to look at it that way. I think with the speed of our world, most people take special moments for granted. If we take our time and enjoy—truly enjoy—all that we do … life can be magical.”

“I’d love to say that I had lofty dreams as a child,” Sean divulges. “But even as a very young child, I was always able to combine whatever I had to make the best ice cream sundae or the most elaborate pancake station for family and friends.” He offers a few ways to graciously welcome a guest into your home or office.

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Always make your guests feel welcome as soon as they arrive. It is important that they know how special and lucky you feel knowing that you are entertaining them.

Sean offers up his expertise in regular spots as the Bon Vivant on Atlanta & Co., with the Craft Box Girls, on CBS, The Weather Channel and AppleTV. He recently opened studio space in Midtown, off of Cheshire Bridge, next to Cut Flower Wholesale. Here, he maintains offices for consulting with clients and, most importantly, has a full studio kitchen where he can film demos and classes.

Engage your guests in conversation that is about them and what they have been doing—let them know how special their friendship is to you personally.

His career in entertaining demands he be “on” while working, so Sean keeps his downtime comparatively quiet. He’s rejuvenated by sacred time in nature and refuels by heading out on hikes, kayaking on the Chattahoochee, horseback riding out in Milton or tending to his apiary and organic garden. “I adore Atlanta and my life here in the city. It vibes like a modern, global city but, it still has a unique smalltown feel.”

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Even if it is only going to be a short visit, offer your guests a cocktail and a small snack. Remember that it does not have to be fancy. The simplest gesture goes a long way in making a guest feel extra special.ed food items. CHCAtlanta.org

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SEAN O’KEEFE EVENTS, FLORAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOMAS ESPINOSA.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SEAN O’KEEFE EVENTS, PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE BYARS.

The traditional hospitality of Georgia meshed perfectly with Sean’s own sense of graciousness in entertaining.

“Atlanta has challenged me to be better, to strive harder on behalf of the friendships I’ve made,” Sean declares. “People have believed in me enough to help me make things happen. If you show up for Atlanta, it’ll show up for you.”

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PR O FIL E

Sachi Nakato

RESTAURA NTE UR • A RTI S T • CULTURA L A M B A S S A D O R

S

achiyo (“Sachi”) Nakato Takahara is the third generation in a line of three strong women who’ve brought their culture, tradition and cuisine to

[

PIEDMONT PARK IS SENTIMENTAL TO ME.

IT’S WHERE MY

WOULD GO FOR WALKS WHEN THEY WERE FALLING IN

LOVE.

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PARENTS

“My grandmother was invited to the Governor’s Mansion to perform a traditional tea ceremony for the Carters and their guests. I still have the thank-you note Rosalynn Carter wrote to my grandmother.”

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When asked why her grandmother would immigrate here from Japan at the age of 65 and decide to open a restaurant, Sachi replies, “I have an uncle, Kenzo Nakato, who lived in Charlotte, and she came to visit his family and take a Southern tour. She fell in love with the green space and Southern hospitality and decided to stay. She had worked in the Japanese hospitality industry before, so she approached my uncle about starting a restaurant in Atlanta.”

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“Back then, sushi was considered the equivalent of fish bait,” Sachi laughs. “My family was determined to elevate the opinion about Japanese cuisine here.”

Later, Sachi’s mother, Hiroe, joined the family business. Then, Kiyoshi, Sachi’s father, came from Japan to work at the restaurant. “My mom literally greeted him at the door, fresh off the plane. I think it was love at first sight.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VIC BONVICINI PHOTOGRAPHY, HAIR AND MAKEUP BY THE GREEN ROOM AGENCY.

Midtown. Their restaurant on Cheshire Bridge, given the family name— Nakato—was founded by Sachi’s grandmother back in 1972, when Jimmy Carter was governor of Georgia. “He was making efforts to woo international businesses to Georgia at the time my grandmother opened this restaurant.

He would bring visiting business leaders from Japan here for a traditional Japanese meal. They would stay up until the wee hours of the morning, talking business. That’s how he met my grandmother, Tetsuko,” Sachi explains. “Once those companies moved to Atlanta, their workers would come here—homesick for their culture and an authentic Japanese meal.”

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To ensure authenticity in his culinary preparations, Executive Chef Yoshifusa Kinjo imports key ingredients from Japan, while seasonal produce is sourced locally. Everything, including the vinegar used in preparing sushi, is made from scratch according to generations-old recipes. Customary Japanese cuisine, known as washoku, is both a culinary philosophy and set of guidelines for preparing food. It’s celebrated for its centuries-old cooking techniques and respect for nature.

3 Nakato ways

Sachi graduated from high school in Atlanta and struck out to Boston University to study art history. But the family business soon drew her back to Atlanta. Now, she oversees the running of the restaurant on a daily basis. She is proud of the way her family offers a taste of Japanese culture and tradition for eager Atlanta diners.

When Sachi and her husband, Josh Houghkirk, have rare spare time, they frequent spots around the Midtown neighborhood. “I love walks in Piedmont Park,” she says. “It’s a sentimental place for me, because it’s where my mom and dad would go for a walk on their breaks from the restaurant when they were first falling in love.” She says she finds herself on the BeltLine often and enjoys its many shops and restaurants. “It’s so diverse compared to the suburbs,” she enthuses. She lives in the new Modera Morningside building near Nakato. “You probably think it’s crazy, but one of my favorite parts of the building is that Sprouts is on the ground floor. I’m a grocery store fanatic.”

Sachi says working with her family has its own rewards. “Sure, we have our little family dramas, who doesn’t? But when I reflect on my relationship with them, I call them ‘my Google.’ They are my reference point; I reach out to them for advice constantly. I hold onto them for dear life.”

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Tatami rooms, or traditional tea rooms (a rare find in the U.S.), offer intimate, multi-course washoku dining.

In these rooms, guests experience the elegance and serene ambience of old-world Japan.

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High-energy hibachi, or teppanyaki, tables (considered high-end dining in Japan) offer entertaining “New World” dining. Here, chefs use an iron griddle to prepare meals in front of guests, providing dynamic entertainment using their knives, spatulas and fresh ingredients.

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The sushi bar and main dining room meet in the middle, offering an authentic taste of traditional as well as modern Japanese dishes and sushi.

Nakato: 1776 Cheshire Bridge Rd. NE., Atlanta, GA 30324.

NakatoRestaurant.com

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(BOTTOM) THE NAKATO FAMILY STEPS INTO THE FUTURE OF CUISINE AND DESIGN— ALWAYS WITH AN EYE TO THE PAST. (LEFT TO RIGHT) SACHI’S SISTER, YUKIKO BUTI; SACHI; HER MOTHER, HIROE; AND FATHER, KIYOSHI NAKATO.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SACHI NAKATO.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VIC BONVICINI PHOTOGRAPHY, HAIR AND MAKEUP BY THE GREEN ROOM AGENCY.

(TOP) NAKATO SEAMLESSLY STRADDLES TIME: ITS THREE TATAMI ROOMS—TRADITIONAL TEA ROOMS, OFFER “OLD WORLD” TRADITIONAL JAPANESE DINING. GUESTS DON SLIPPERS AND RELAX ON FLOOR PILLOWS AS THEY ARE WAITED ON BY KIMONOWEARING SERVERS.

offers Japanese culture & cuisine:

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PRO F I LE

Randi Layne

A RT S A D V O C AT E • E V E N T P R O D U C E R • D I VA

Randi Layne has been a part of the Atlanta art scene for years. A former dancerturned-fashion model, Randi used her experience in the industry to start CatWalk Productions, Inc. She lends her talents for imaginative event creation every year to the “Bodies as Works of Art” body-painting show for The Chelko Foundation (of which she is also the executive director), whose mission is to empower and inspire women and artists around the world.

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This year, the event takes on new life as the Body Art Cabaret at the Westside Cultural Arts Center on September 30. “The cabaret performance brings a vintage touch to variety entertainment, coupled with living artistry. This year’s group includes fire dancers, jugglers, acrobats … all painted by world-class body painters,” says Layne.

The Bodies as Works of Art events as a whole have also evolved into Living Art America: The North American Bodypainting Championship, an international competition gathering artists from 30 countries to compete for over $10,000 in grants from The Chelko Foundation. To date, the foundation has donated over $180,000 to deserving artists worldwide.

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Body Art Cabaret Westside Cultural Arts Center Shows at 7pm & 10pm on September 30 BodyArtCabaret.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY (RIGHT) JR WEST; (LEFT) RUDY ONDREY.

Started as a way to honor her dear friend, Atlanta artist Paul Chelko, and his wife, Debbie, the original body art show for The Chelko Foundation had humble beginnings. “The first year had 10 participants, ranging from cake decorators to graffiti artists who painted amazing art pieces on the models. Bill Haygood, a long-time friend of Paul and owner of The Cheetah, donated the club to the foundation for the show,” says Layne. The concept of a body art show was seen as breaking new ground in Atlanta at the time and even Layne herself was nervous about the reaction it would get. To her delight, the event was a complete success.

“Patrons lined up to purchase a standing-room-only ticket for a sold-out show. We knew at that point that the event was going to be our annual fundraiser,” she explains.

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my Family

At the heart of the ’hood

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The Center for Puppetry Arts isn’t just for kids.

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Take in a teen and adult performance from their New Directions Series. In October, “Ghastly Dreadfuls: Raising Spirits” celebrates the spine-tingling side of Halloween with international songs and dances.

1404 Spring St. NW. Puppet.org

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Get out and about, courtesy of Clue Town Books.

Using city landmarks, players solve puzzles to find the next checkpoint. This walkable scavenger hunt-type game is a fun way to explore parts of town—such as Piedmont Park, the BeltLine, Virginia-Highland and others. Buy one at Paris on Ponce, 716 Ponce de Leon Pl. NE. ClueTownBooks.com

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF (1) THE CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS; (2) CLUE TOWN, LLC; (3) ATLANTA ROCKS! INDOOR CLIMBING GYM; (4) JAMESTOWN.

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If the idea of traditional after-school sports isn’t getting your little one fired up, try Atlanta Rocks—School of Rocks! program. While kids enjoy a variety of supervised climbs, parents can hang out in the gym or work on a laptop using their free Wi-Fi. 1019 Collier Rd. NW. AtlantaRocks.com

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Step right up to Skyline Park on the roof of Ponce City Market. A festival rolls along all year long at this mini carnival-inspired theme park. Test your skills at derby racing, basketball, skee ball and ring tossing.

675 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE. SkylineParkAtlanta.com

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Take your kids to tee up at Topgolf at the free KidZone Club. Fun for players of all levels, KidZone club activities include playing pool, interactive video games or giant Jenga.

1600 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd. NW. Topgolf.com my

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my Food Faves Tr i e d a n d t r u e o r n e w t o y o u

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF (1) 5CHURCH; (3) CALLIE’S HOT LITTLE BISCUIT, PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON STEMPLE; (5) PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEIDI GELDHAUSER.

2. The first Honey Bubble Tea on earth calls Midtown home. This spot buzzes with millennials who clamor for their signature Royal Milk Honey Bubble Tea, blending tea, milk, honey and tapioca pearls that pairs nicely with their macarons.

798 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE. HoneyBubbleTea.com 3. This Virginia-Highland hottie is still a baby. Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit opened in January and has already earned praise by Oprah herself. Their savory biscuits are made by hand (using no machinery whatsoever) and only the finest ingredients—flour, buttermilk, butter and cream cheese—don’t leave without trying their blackberry jam! 1004 Virginia Ave. NE. CalliesBiscuits.com 4. Craving a late-night sweet?

Insomnia Cookies comes to the rescue. They deliver warm, delicious cookies right to your door until 3:00am. From snickerdoodles and s’mores to double chocolate chunks or M&Ms, it’s going to be hard to choose. 930 Spring St. NW. InsomniaCookies.com 5. Treat yourself to a beer created by the Scofflaw Brewing Company, the latest brewery to hit the Midtown craft beer scene.

Stop by the grand opening of their tasting room on September 17 to try their honey- and orangeinfused Sneaky Wheat.

1738 MacArthur Blvd. NW. Facebook.com/ScofflawBrewingCo

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1. The swanky new kid on the block, 5Church, has an eclectic menu, cool bar scene and outdoor patio/balcony overlooking Peachtree Street skyscrapers. Try a lamb burger—served on a housemade bun and garnished with red onion marmalade, gorgonzola fondue and arugula.

1197 Peachtree St. NE. 5ChurchAtlanta.com

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Doing Good in the ’Hood L e n d

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Paws hit the pavement at the Atlanta Humane Society’s (AHS) 2nd Annual Walk for the Animals 5K on October 16. There is no registration fee, but every walker/team is encouraged to fundraise to help AHS rescue animals and find them loving homes as well as offer low-cost veterinary services. Atlantic Station—at the intersection of 17th St. and West District. ATLWalk.org

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Mentoring can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Just two easy,

enjoyable outings a month can make a huge impact

on any of the 597 children currently waitlisted for mentors with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta. BBBSATL.org

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Show your support for research to find a cure

for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which

affects over 7 million women in the U.S., at the Bolt for PCOS 5K Run/Walk on September 25. This event is part of the 4th Annual Atlanta PCOS Awareness Symposium, which advocates screenings and education.

Registration $30–$40.

759 Ferst Dr. PCOSChallenge.org

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In celebration of 30 years of tree planting, removal of invasive species and environmental education, Trees Atlanta’s NeighborWoods

program hosts a community tree-planting day on

October 15. Dubbed Plantlanta, the event will include 12 Atlanta city council districts. TreesAtlanta.org

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF (TOP LEFT) ATLANTA HUMANE SOCIETY, PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUSTIN MURANT; (BOTTOM LEFT) JOSH HOBGOOD PHOTOGRAPHY.

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Round up family, friends and co-workers to help out during Hands on Atlanta Day 2016 on October 1. This event enlists volunteers to work on 50 different projects tackling food security, homelessness, youth development and education, family support and community beautification.

HandsOnAtlanta.org

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