327 Dahlonega Street, Suite 903A Cumming, GA 30040
STAFF AND CONTRIBUTORS
PUBLISHER
Stephanie Woody
MANAGING EDITOR
Michelle Hall
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sudie Crouch
Adrienne Crawford
Kaylie Guthrie
Greg Finan, Jr
PHOTOGRAPHY
Sophie Ralph
Various Contributors
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER
Paul Flannigan
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Stacy Clark
Alex Henry
CREATIVE SERVICES
Chelsea Sunshine, Lead Graphic Designer
April Seymour, Prepress Coordinator
Courtney Smith, Graphic Designer
Carmen Rivera, Magazine Designer
EAUTY
PERSONALIZED
By: Adrienne Crawford
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for oneself can feel like an indulgence. But what if this time was seamlessly integrated into your everyday routine? Enter Shameless Aesthetics, a medical spa that redefines the self-care experience with a unique blend of state-of-the-art treatments, highly trained providers, and a warm, inviting environment. The minute you step foot into the office you feel at home.
I have been coming for 6 months now. The entire staff is so knowledgeable and such amazing ladies I would not go anywhere else. I can see a huge difference in my skin and have learned so much from each of them. No matter your age it’s never to early or late to come and visit Shameless for your skin care. - Julie
A Medical Spa with a Small Unique Atmosphere
Forget stuffy waiting rooms and impersonal service. At Shameless, the staff takes the time to make sure each of their patients has a personalized experience. Shameless has a distinctive boutique ambiance. Upon arrival the impression is that Shameless feels less like a medical facility and more like a day with friends who happen to be skilled in turning back the clock. The interior design combines modern elegance with a touch of homey comfort, making it an environment that you’ll want to return to.
Personalized Care Tailored to You
According to Jenn Cathers, managing partner and aesthetic nurse, “We want to set ourselves apart from other medical spas with our concierge style approach.”
A few ways Shameless achieves this is by offering complimentary consultations, thoroughly educating patients, and following up with patients and their results along the way.
“We don’t want to just push services; we want real results and create custom treatment plans for each patient to get them there,” Cathers said. “We focus on where in the aging process our patients are and take their
timeline, goals, needs and budget in mind when creating plans.”
Cathers explained that patients have access to their providers, even after hours. She says, “If I completed the treatment, I would rather our patients contact me than turn to google or a friend for answers.”
Community and Connection
Shameless is exceptional as it isn’t just a medical spa; it is a community. The growth experienced in the last year, including a well-rounded team, is a testament to that. Cathers adds that her team is also involved with local endeavors to support nonprofit agencies such as Turning Point Breast
Services That Shine
Shameless offers a comprehensive range of medical-grade treatments, all curated and designed to address a variety of skincare and aesthetic concerns. Popular treatments include:
• Injectables: Botox, dermal fillers and biostimulators to smooth wrinkles and restore youthful volume.
• Skin Rejuvenation: Microneedling, chemical peels, and advanced facials to improve skin texture and tone.
• Laser Treatments: Morpheus8 (which uses radiofrequency & microneedling for skin remodeling), Lumecca IPL (which uses intense pulsed light to reduce pigmentation, vascular lesions and sun damage) and Diolaze XL for top-of-the-line laser hair removal.
TO LEARN MORE OR BOOK AN APPOINTMENT, VISIT SHAMELESS AESTHETICS’ WEBSITE, OR CONTACT THEIR FRIENDLY TEAM. YOUR JOURNEY TO SELFCARE STARTS HERE. HTTPS:// SHAMELESSGA.COM/ SERVICES/
Sponsored content.
Cancer Rehabilitation, Bald Ridge Lodge (a group home for boys) and Brother’s Keeper Veteran Foundation, which supports the mental health of veterans. Their efforts foster a sense of connection and make Shameless a go-to
destination for more than just treatments.
Visit Shameless Today
If you are in or around Forsyth County and looking for a medical spa that combines expertise with a personal touch,
Shameless is the place to be. They are 2024 Best of Cumming Best Medspa winners and won the 2025 Best of Forsyth Best Medspa award. Discover the difference a boutique approach can make and take the first step toward a more confident you.
Photos by Elizabeth Roses Photography
B OOKS
TO BEAT THE WINTER BLUES
By Chelsea Sunshine Lead Graphic Designer and Book Junkie
Are you dealing with the cold winter like me? Still snuggled in and waiting for the warmer weather before you venture out?
Settle in with these New York Times bestsellers and read away the winter malaise.
Multiple studies have been done on how reading impacts brain health and mental wellness. We all hear about the wonders of taking a walk to relax, but did you know reading could be just as effective? One study done in 2009 by Mindlab International showed that reading reduced stress levels by 68%. This shows, that while walking reduces stress, reading is just as effective if not more effective. The American Academy of Neurology has noted that reading can reduce memory decline and other mental capacities as we age.
If you are waiting for those spring days to get walking and hiking, you can still get in some ‘exercise’. Workout those mental muscles with a good book. Now, if I can only coordinate walking and reading at the same time, I will be winning 2025.
The Let Them Theory
by Mel Robbins
Learn ways to improve your life while improving brain function.
A Life-Changing Tool Millions of People Can’t Stop Talking About
What if the key to happiness, success, and love was as simple as two words?
If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated
Them—will set you free. Free from the opinions, drama, and judgments of others. Free from the exhausting cycle of trying to manage everything and everyone around you. The Let Them Theory puts the power to create a life you love back in your hands— and this book will show you exactly how to do it.
In her latest groundbreaking book, The Let Them Theory, Mel Robbins—New York Times bestselling author and one of the world’s most respected experts on motivation, confidence, and mindset—teaches you how to stop wasting energy on what you can’t control and start focusing on what truly matters: YOU. Your happiness. Your goals. Your life.
Using the same no-nonsense, science-backed approach that’s made The Mel Robbins Podcast a global sensation, Robbins explains why The Let Them Theory is already loved by millions and how you can apply it in eight key areas of your life to make the biggest impact.
Within a few pages, you’ll realize how much energy and time you’ve been wasting trying to control the wrong things—at work, in relationships, and in pursuing your goals—and how this is keeping you from the happiness and success you deserve.
Written as an easy-tounderstand guide, Robbins shares relatable stories from her own life, highlights key takeaways, relevant research and introduces you to world-renowned experts in psychology, neuroscience, relationships, happiness, and ancient wisdom who champion The Let Them Theory every step of the way.
Order your copy of The Let Them Theory now and discover how much power you truly have. It all begins with two simple words. Find it for sale at your local bookstore or online.
Get ready to fly or die in the breathtaking follow-up to Fourth Wing and Iron Flame from #1
Onyx Storm by
Rebecca Yarros
Get lost in this best-selling series and let your mind unwind.
New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Yarros.
After nearly eighteen months at Basgiath War College, Violet Sorrengail knows there’s no more time for lessons. No more time for uncertainty. Because the battle has truly begun, and with enemies closing in from outside their walls and within their ranks, it’s impossible to know who to trust.
Now Violet must journey beyond the failing Aretian wards to seek allies from unfamiliar lands to stand with Navarre. The trip will test every bit of her wit, luck, and strength, but she will do anything to save what she loves—her dragons, her family, her home, and him.
Even if it means keeping a secret so big, it could destroy everything.
They need an army. They need power. They need magic. And they need the one thing only
Violet can find—the truth. But a storm is coming...and not everyone can survive its wrath.
Rebecca Yarros is the #1 New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over fifteen novels including Fourth Wing and In the Likely Event, with multiple starred Publishers Weekly reviews and a Kirkus Best Book of the Year.
To catch up on Rebecca’s latest releases and upcoming novels visit www.RebeccaYarros.com.
Reading is an excellent way to keep your mind sharp and engaged, even if the weather makes you want to curl up under a warm blanket. The best part is, it doesn’t matter what you are reading, just that you are reading.
The Duke and I by
Julia Quinn
Fan favorite series will take you into a world of romance and intrigue (and away from the cold!).
beloved Regency-set novels featuring the charming, powerful Bridgerton family, now a series created by Shondaland for Netflix.
In the ballrooms and drawing rooms of Regency London, rules abound. From their earliest days, children of aristocrats learn how to address an earl and curtsey before a prince—while other dictates of the ton are unspoken yet universally understood. A proper duke should be imperious and aloof. A young, marriageable lady should be
amiable…but not too amiable.
Daphne Bridgerton has always failed at the latter. The fourth of eight siblings in her close-knit family, she has formed friendships with the most eligible young men in London. Everyone likes Daphne for her kindness and wit. But no one truly desires her. She is simply too deuced honestfor that, too unwilling to play the romantic games that captivate gentlemen.
Amiability is not a characteristic shared by Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings. Recently returned
to England from abroad, he intends to shun both marriage and society—just as his callous father shunned Simon throughout his painful childhood. Yet an encounter with his best friend’s sister offers another option. If Daphne agrees to a fake courtship, Simon can deter the mamas who parade their daughters before him. Daphne, meanwhile, will see her prospects and her reputation soar.
The plan works like a charm—at first. But amid the glittering, gossipy, cut-throat world of London’s elite, there is only one certainty: love ignores every rule...
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn comes the story of Daphne Bridgerton, in the first of her
Spring Cleaning Your Mind with Mindfulness
by Sudie Crouch Health & wellness columnist
With our everyday lives being inundated by so many things, it can be hard to find time to not only take time for ourselves but to even pause and gather our thoughts. It’s one of the reasons why we experience so much stress – we’re rushing from one thing to the next, overwhelmed by worry, confusion, and anxiety. Being able to add mindfulness into our day can help alleviate some of these stressors, and help us focus on the things we need to. The benefits of mindfulness are many. Less stress, lower blood pressure, and more happiness, among so many others. Even though the benefits abound, it can sometimes be challenging to know
how or where to stay with practicing mindfulness.
Starting with a simple technique to help you focus on the present, you can learn how to practice mindfulness at practically any moment and increase your mindfulness throughout the day.
Mindfulness is not meant to be complicated. If anything, the beauty of it is in its simplicity. Being present and focused on the moment may seem like a simple task, but it can be profound. It doesn’t have to be long – just a few minutes is fine – nor does it require any special tools.
One of the easiest techniques you can do is to pause and be aware of your breath. This can be
done any time you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. By being mindful of your breath, it brings you into the moment, so you can be more aware of where your thoughts may be going and can help disrupt any negative thoughts of stress or anxiety you may be experiencing.
motivation is (your Big Why) for completing the task is, or even someone you know who has overcome something similar for inspiration. Visualization can also be a great technique to use to help clear your mind and ease the tension and stress of the day. While it may seem like daydreaming at first glance, it’s a form of mindful practice that uses guided imagery to help provide peace and relaxation. To begin, start by closing your eyes and taking a few breaths to just clear your mind. Visualize yourself at a place that brings you joy and peace. It could be the beach if you love the ocean, or it could be a park, or even just a field of wildflowers. Whatever resonates with you. Using your mind and imagination, allow yourself to feel, see, hear, and smell everything around you in this place. If you’re using the beach as your place of peace, visualize the waves, the smell of the water, the sand beneath your feet. Fully create the experience in your mind, to help give yourself a mental place to visit to help clear the stress from your day. If any negative thoughts or worries come into your mind, acknowledge them while not dwelling on them, and dismiss them and return to the peaceful environment you’ve created.
Additionally, visualization can be used to overcome negative thoughts about situations by seeing yourself successfully completing a task. If you’re anxious about giving a presentation, spend a few moments creating that aura of peace, and then using the same technique to create the image of the beach, create an image of yourself giving the presentation successfully. See the crowd smiling and clapping, yourself feeling confident and delivering the presentation smoothly.
Using just a few techniques such as breathing and visualization can help you bring more peace and mindfulness into your day and routine, and the best part is, the techniques are readily available and free to use.
Find the perfect mix of fitness and fun at Vibe Fitness
A Best of Forsyth Award winner
By Kaylie Guthrie FCN Staff
Vibe Fitness, a local fitness studio, is the winner of this year’s 2025 Best of Forsyth Fitness Award. With a focus on an inclusive fitness experience, Vibe Fitness is a perfect fit for anyone wanting a more personal and community-led exercise experience as they take on 2025.
This marks the fourth consecutive year that Vibe Fitness has taken home the award, emphasizing the love that the community has for the company and its pillar in feel-good fitness.
Owners Allyson
Ponte and Kelly Schur first opened the studio in 2020 and just recently expanded to
a new location in the heart of downtown Cumming to facilitate their growth.
“The simple answer is our people—they are truly the heartbeat of our business,” said
Exercise/People
Photo courtesy of Vibe Fitness
Schur when asked what sets the company apart. “In an industry that’s often driven by competition, we stand out as a noncompetitive studio, offering an inclusive and welcoming space for everybody and every body.
“It’s not just about fitness; it’s about creating a community where everyone feels
valued, supported, and empowered.”
Vibe Fitness accomplishes this by offering something for everybody through workouts based in dance, strength, kickboxing, sculpt, yoga and T3 – a type of high intensity workout.
Fitting with the studio’s motto of real people, real results and real fun, the owners
of Vibe say there’s no need to compromise between fitness and fun.
Their programs include not only in person classes in exercise and wellness but also virtual classes and service options such as a custom flash mob choreography, wedding reception entrance and more.
“We chose Forsyth
We chose Forsyth County because it felt like home from the beginning. - Kelly Schur
County because it felt like home from the beginning,” said Schur. “The people here are all about connection, fun, and living life to the fullest, which is exactly the vibe we wanted for our fitness studio.
“We set out to create a place where the community could feel supported and surrounded by good energy. Forsyth has been the perfect place to make that dream a reality.”
More information on Vibe Fitness can be found at experiencevibefitness. com.
Meet the Founders. Allyson Ponte and Kelly Schur.
Photo courtesy of Vibe Fitness
Vibe Fitness in Forsyth.
Photo by Sophie Ralph
L OCAL H OTSPOTS
MEADOW WOODFIRE GRILL
One of Cumming’s newest fine dining experiences offering prime steaks and American fare cooked over a live fire. Located in the heart of Cumming.
101 Meadow Dr Suite K, Cumming, 770-888-1998
LOS RIOS CANTINA
A spinoff of its original sit-down restaurant, Los Rios Cantina is a quick serve restaurant offering some of its favorite offerings. Plus, check out the frozen margarita wall!
440 Vision Dr, Suite C001 Cumming 470-239-4288
SHIPLEY DO-NUTS
RICE RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR
Rice is dedicated to serving patrons a unique variety of Asian cuisine. The eatery offers an assortment of traditional dishes prepared with fresh, quality ingredients that are familiar to the American palate. With select daily market
deliveries, they also serve only the freshest and highest-grade sushi and sashimi.
3480 Keith Bridge Road, Suite B1, Cumming, ricerestaurantandsushibar.com, 770-887-9833
From casual and trendy to upscale and fine, there are dining options for all tastes.
Doughnut lovers do everything they can to get a taste of Shipley’s heavenly glazed doughnut – served hot and fresh just the way Lawrence Shipley liked them. He created his original recipe for hot, fresh, hand-crafted doughnut so fluffy, simple and delicious that owners still create the doughnut his way to this day.
3225 Keith Bridge Road, Cumming facebook.com/ShipleyDoNuts30041CummingGA, 470-839-2135
SOCKS LOVE BARBECUE
Meats are smoked and rubbed in-house at Socks Love, which offers brisket, ribs, pork, turkey and chicken along with sides like mac and cheese and cowboy beans.
1050 Buford Road, Unit 104, Cumming, sockslovebrands.com, 470-302-8383
FRUTTA BOWLS
AAHIL LALANI | Frutta Bowls
TAM’S BACKSTAGE
Tam’s Backstage is one of Forsyth County’s most successful food and spirits gathering spots — with dining in the basement of the town’s historic 1923 school building. An American bistro punctuated with a hint of northern Italian flair, the seafood is fresh, the steaks are hand-cut and the sauces, dressings and desserts are all made from scratch.
Known as a superfood cafe, Frutta Bowls is at The Collection at Forsyth. The menu consists of a variety of healthy options including bowls and smoothies.
410 Peachtree Pkwy #120 Cumming 470-695-4187
JUKE N JIVE CREAMERY
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to an old-fashioned ice cream parlor when you enter Juke N Jive Creamery at Cumming City Center. The menu features handmade ice cream and fudge. Dairy free ice cream options available.
441 Vision Dr Ste G101, Cumming, 470-574-3735
Inchin is a combination of the words ‘Indian’ and ‘Chinese’ and the owners of this restaurant say that is how to describe their food. The menu features dishes that are inspired by cooking styles from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, China and India.
1050 Buford Rd Cumming, 470-835-6090
MARIE’S ITALIAN DELI
Marie’s Italian Deli uses only the finest and freshest ingredients to create breakfasts, pizzas, calzones, subs, soups, salads and homemade Italian dishes.
580 Atlanta Road, Ste 34, Cumming mariesitaliandeli.com 770-886-0084
SABRINA KERNS | Juke N Jive Creamery
THIS SEASON
The Essential Social Calendar of Events: A guide to the local festivals, events, concerts & performances in Forsyth County.
By: Greg Finan Jr.
Nestled in the heart of Georgia, Forsyth County is not just a peaceful retreat; it’s a hub for exciting events that bring the community together year-round. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Forsyth offers something for everyone, from lively festivals to awe-inspiring concerts and performances. Here’s your essential guide to the must-attend events that should be on your calendar this year.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Forsyth County Farmers Market (Seasonal, May–November) SHOPPING
Start your journey with the vibrant atmosphere of the Forsyth County Farmers Market, one of the largest open-air markets in North Georgia. Every Saturday, from May through November, local farmers and artisans gather to offer fresh produce, handmade goods and unique crafts. It’s not just a place to shop, it’s an experience. Bring the whole family to enjoy live music, food trucks and cooking demonstrations that showcase the best of local agriculture.
LOCATIONS:
• Leonard’s Farmer Market: Located at 304 Atlanta Rd. Cumming, Georgia 30040
• Sprouts: Located at Lakeland
Whether you’re attending a lively concert, strolling through an arts and crafts festival, or simply enjoying the fresh air at a farmers market, Forsyth County has plenty to offer. Stay in the loop by checking
Plaza, 530 Lakeland Plz. Cumming, GA 30040
• Earth Fare: Located at 3140 Ronald Reagan Blvd. Cumming, GA 30041
• Circle A Lettuce: Located at 2895 Dishroom Rd.
local event listings or following event organizers on social media for up-to-date details on dates, times, and ticket information. With such a dynamic calendar, there’s no shortage of opportu -
Cumming, GA 30028 (Locally grown hydroponic lettuce)
• County Line General Store: Located at 4625 Canton Hwy Cumming, Georgia 30040.
nities to get out, explore, and celebrate the best of Forsyth County. So, grab your family, friends, and your calendar—Forsyth County’s events are waiting to be enjoyed!
PERFORMANCES & EVENTS
School Street Playhouse (Year-Round)
Located in downtown Cumming, the School Street Playhouse offers a variety of live performances throughout the year, from theatrical productions to concerts and comedy shows. With its intimate
setting and talented cast, it’s a great way to enjoy local talent in a welcoming environment. The Playhouse regularly hosts events that cater to both adults and children, making it a top destination for per-
THE FORSYTH COUNTY LIBRARY’S
forming arts enthusiasts.
Location: 101 School St, Cumming, GA 30040
Website: schoolstreetplayhouse. com
WHY FORSYTH COUNTY’S EVENTS MATTER
EVENTS & PERFORMANCES (Year-Round)
For bookworms and performance enthusiasts alike, the Forsyth County Library offers a wide array of educational and cultural events throughout the year. From author readings and writing workshops to live theater performances, the library is the county’s intellectual and cultural hub. Be sure to check the library’s schedule for unique events that will spark your curiosity.
BRANCHES:
• Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega St, Cumming, GA 30040
• Hampton Park Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Rd, Cumming, GA 30041
• Sharon Forks Library, 5345 Settingdown Rd, Cumming, GA 30041
• Post Road Library, 5010 Post Rd, Cumming, GA 30040
From the lively atmosphere of its festivals to the heartwarming performances in its theaters, Forsyth County’s social calendar fosters a strong sense of community. These events provide local businesses with the chance to shine, while also offering residents and visitors alike a reason to connect and celebrate. In a time when community engagement is more important than ever, Forsyth County’s calendar serves as a reminder of how local events can create lasting memories, strengthen bonds, and enhance the area’s cultural vibrancy.
Photo School Street Playhouse
THE HEART OF OUR SUCCESS:
OUR COMMUNITY
Los Rios is proud to announce being voted Best of Forsyth 2025, an honor made possible by the unwavering support of our amazing community. This recognition reflects our commitment to crafting authentic dining experiences that blend traditional Mexican flavors with modern twists. From sizzling fajitas to handcrafted margaritas, every dish is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring bold, joyful flavors to the table.
additions, special events, and an inviting atmosphere.
The Los Rios family extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who trusts us with their special moments and celebrations. We remain devoted to serving with pride and enthusiasm. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, we warmly invite you to celebrate with us and enjoy a memorable dining experience.
FLAVOR, FUN, AND FIESTA!
www.losrios-cantina.com
Los Rios Cantina is a family-owned and operated fast-casual Mexican restaurant, proudly recognized as the winner of the Best of Forsyth award in the Margarita category. We are thrilled to offer an unparalleled experience with our unique frozen margarita wall, featuring over 35 flavors, making us the only establishment in Georgia with such an offering.
This extensive selection ensures that there’s a perfect choice for everyone, allowing guests to explore a variety of taste sensations. Our commitment to quality and service is unwavering, as we provide an exceptional dining experience without compromising on flavor or hospitality. At Los Rios Cantina, we embrace the fast-casual concept by allowing our patrons to create their own personalized dishes, tailoring each meal to individual preferences and tastes. This approach ensures that every visit is both unique and satisfying, catering to diverse palates.
We are deeply grateful to our community for their continued support and for choosing us as the Best of Forsyth 2025. For those who have yet to visit, we invite you to stop by and experience our renowned margaritas and flavorful dishes. Don't miss out on what many consider a must-try experience in Forsyth County. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
