Letter from the Editor
As February brings the season of love, we're excited to share a special collection of local treasures that celebrate the charm and creativity of our community. In this month’s issue, we dive into stories that capture the essence of love, artistry, and craftsmanship.
The Barns at Gunn-Stewart Farm is a family-owned gem that radiates rustic elegance and romantic charm. Join us as we take you on a tour of this stunning wedding venue, where every corner is filled with possibilities for creating unforgettable moments. From its picturesque barns to its sweeping countryside views, discover why it’s a top choice for couples seeking a truly unique celebration.
Next, we shine a spotlight on Jimmy Rivers Powder Coating, where craftsmanship and precision meet. Jimmy's mastery in transforming ordinary items into stunning works of art through powder coating is truly remarkable. His dedication to quality and attention to detail will inspire you to see the beauty in every surface.
For those looking to add a personal touch to their Valentine’s Day gifts, we’ve got a fun DIY craft project. Learn how to create your own stamps using simple materials like potatoes and romaine lettuce to make heart and rose designs. It’s a creative way to show your love through handmade cards and crafts.
We hope this issue fills your heart with local love and inspires you to celebrate the season with those who matter most.
BAILEY HALL, EDITOR @CITYLIFESTYLEAUGUSTA
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Jana Morris | jana.morris@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Bailey Hall | bailey.hall@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Michelle Parnell | michelle.parnell@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Daniel Morris
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bailey Hall, Leann Parker, Michelle Parnell
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Whitney Wysong Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Valentine’s Cookie Decorating Class
Join Goat Kick Coffee Co and Royally Iced Baker for a Valentine’s Cookie Decorating Class on Friday, February 7th, from 5–7 PM at their Evans location (935 Ronald Reagan Dr., Suite 101). Perfect for beginners, this class includes all the supplies to create festive cookies, plus a medium specialty drink from Goat Kick. Bring your date or your Galentine! Tickets available on the Goat Kick Coffee Co Facebook page.
Mark Your Calendars For The Cultural Festival
The Columbia County Cultural Festival is happening March 28-29, from 3:00pm to 7:00pm at Evans Towne Center Park! Celebrate cultures from around the globe with music, food, and traditions that bring our community together. Don’t miss this exciting new event!
Augusta AntiAging Medicine Expands
Augusta Anti-Aging Medicine provides comprehensive care for menopausal women. Starting in March, their office is expanding their approach to women’s wellness and will be offering aesthetics to help you feel your best. From Botox, Juvederm, and laser hair removal to advanced treatments like Morpheus, CO2 laser, and skin rejuvenation! For more information, call 706.707.2808 or visit AugustaA2M.com .
Premier General Contractors Since 1986
Beyond providing quality workmanship and comprehensive design/build services, we strive to build a relationship of mutual trust and confidence with each of our clients’ large and small. We accomplish this by putting your priorities first and conducting ourselves with integrity in every aspect of our business.
The Chef's Table with Bill Coxwell
Sweeten Your Valentine’s Day with This Maple Oatmeal Pie Delight
This February, Chef Bill Coxwell, owner of Sweet Azalea Gourmet Kitchen and Catering, brings a heartwarming treat to your table with his Maple Oatmeal Pie. A delightful twist on a classic dessert, this pie combines the rich sweetness of maple syrup with the hearty texture of oats, flaked coconut, and chopped walnuts. Perfect for a cozy evening or as the star of your Valentine’s Day dessert spread, this pie is best served chilled with a dollop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring a slice solo, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Maple Oatmeal Pie
Serves 8
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• ¾ cup maple syrup
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons plain all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup flaked coconut
• ¾ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• 1 deep dish pie shell, unbaked
1. Preheat the oven to 375°.
2. In a large bowl, combine eggs, syrup, sugars, milk, butter and vanilla.
3. Stir in flour, coconut, oats and walnuts.
4. Pour filling into an unbaked pie shell.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool on a wire rack and chill overnight.
7. Serve with a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream.
To make cinnamon whipped cream:
Combine 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form and the mixture appears fluffy.
Serve in a chilled bowl.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Making Things Beautiful
Using powder coat technology by JRPW Racing to restore and enhance everyday treasures
For over 15 years, Jimmy Rivers and JRPW Racing has used the beauty and durability of powder coating to enhance the appearance and restore countless parts and pieces. A chance need to have something powder coated, and the realization that the local source had retired, led to the encouragement of Jimmy’s wife, Gena, to add this service into their company.
As word spread about the versatility of powder coating, and that it’s not confined to strictly automotive or racing parts, the workload went from a few hours weekly to a stand-alone part of the business.
“Powder coat is an electrostatically applied coating that goes on as a powder,” explains Jimmy. “The part is grounded, and the powder has a positive charge, which makes the powder stick. The part is then baked in an oven and it becomes a permanent, baked-on finish that looks like paint but is more chemical resistant and much more durable than paint.”
Because of the way the grounded part attracts the coating, powder can get into areas paint cannot reach. The powder basically wraps itself around the part without creating thick spots, providing a more comprehensive coating than paint that is less likely to leave exposed areas for things like rust to take hold.
Powder coating is a service for most everyone and is used on a wide variety of items. From outdoor
furniture, railings, and antiques to automotive wheels, lift kits, engine parts, and motorcycle frames and parts, the uses and benefits of powder coating are endless. Powder comes in virtually any color and gloss level, and JRPW has samples to help with the decision process.
“It's perfect for restoration or an enhancement for basically anything that somebody takes pride in or that they're trying to restore,” says Jimmy. “The guy who wants it to be pretty, perfect, and to stand out from the crowd, that's my guy, because that is the way I want my stuff to look too. I've got old cars that I like to do work on, and I use powder coating to dress them up. The way you make them notice it is to make the work that you do stand out.”
For more information on powder coating or other services provided through JRPW Racing, stop by the shop at 200 Rose Street in Martinez or give the staff a call at 706-863-1206. You can also visit jrpwracing. net and follow JRPW Racing, Inc. on Facebook.
"It's perfect for restoration or an enhancement for basically anything."
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
STEP INSIDE THE BARNS AT GUNNSTEWART FARM
EXPERIENCE THIS VENUE'S RUSTIC CHARM
Just outside of Augusta, GA, The Barns at Gunn-Stewart Farm is a venue rich in history and heart. Family-owned and operated, the Stewart family’s dedication shines through in every detail. Originally used for cattle and hay in the early 1900s, these barns have been lovingly restored into a rustic yet romantic wedding venue. The renovations preserve their historical charm while offering modern comfort and elegance. The Stewarts’ passion for creating unforgettable celebrations makes this venue truly one of a kind.
Whether you choose the chapel or the orchard, each ceremony space at The Barns at GunnStewart Farm has been thoughtfully designed to create lasting memories.
At the heart of The Barns at Gunn-Stewart Farm lies the Open Air Chapel, a stunning ceremony site that combines rustic elegance with natural beauty. Framed by breathtaking views of the surrounding cotton fields, the chapel’s open design invites the outdoors in, creating a serene and romantic ambiance. Its rustic wooden beams and vaulted ceilings add a touch of charm that perfectly complements the venue’s rich history.
One of the chapel’s most enchanting features is the vintage bell perched high above. Couples can pull the rope and ring the bell after saying their vows, a tradition that signifies the beginning of their new journey together. It’s a moment that guests will treasure and one that adds a unique, personal touch to your special day.
For those who prefer an outdoor ceremony with a more natural vibe, the venue’s pecan orchard is an equally picturesque option. Towering pecan trees form a canopy of shade, creating a peaceful and intimate setting for exchanging vows.
Whether you choose the chapel or the orchard, each ceremony space at The Barns at Gunn-Stewart Farm has been thoughtfully designed to create lasting memories. With its blend of history, charm, and stunning surroundings, this venue is the perfect backdrop for your love story.
The
Open Air Chapel
The Bridal Suite and Groomsmen House
The Barns at Gunn-Stewart Farm goes above and beyond to ensure both the bride and groom have their own unique spaces to prepare and relax before their big moment.
The Bridal Suite is a haven of elegance and comfort, designed specifically with the bride and her bridal party in mind. This suite sleeps up to eight guests and features two bathrooms, one of which includes a stunning clawfoot tub that’s perfect for pre-wedding pampering. Brides will love the three hair and makeup stations, equipped with ring light mirrors to ensure flawless photos. A shampoo bowl is also available, adding an extra layer of convenience. Beyond functionality, the space exudes charm and warmth with multiple lounge seating areas, natural lighting for those getting-ready photos, and thoughtful details like a coffee station to keep everyone energized. What makes this suite truly special is its sentimental decor. The bridal suite is adorned with cherished pieces painted by Mildred Gunn, the late grandmother of the owner’s husband, adding a heartfelt and personal touch to this beautiful retreat.
For the groom and his groomsmen, the Groomsmen House offers a laid-back yet equally thoughtful experience. This fully equipped house provides a fun and comfortable atmosphere, complete with TVs for pre-ceremony entertainment, a kitchen for snacks, and outdoor games like cornhole. It’s more than just a place to get ready—it’s a space where the guys can bond, make memories, and ease any pre-wedding nerves.
With these two exceptional spaces, The Barns at Gunn-Stewart Farm ensures that both the bride and groom feel celebrated, comfortable, and ready to embrace their special day.
These thoughtful touches create a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can dine, dance, and celebrate in style.
The Reception Barn at The Barns at Gunn-Stewart Farm is a breathtaking centerpiece for celebrating love and joy. This rustic yet refined space perfectly blends Southern charm with modern amenities, creating an unforgettable setting for your wedding reception. The barn comfortably seats up to 180 guests indoors, while the property accommodates 300+ guests by adding outdoor tables.
The barn features a state-of-the-art sound system and microphones to ensure heartfelt speeches and lively playlists carry through the space. Rolling TV screens are also available, perfect for sharing slideshows or videos to enhance the celebration. The reception area is furnished with gorgeous wooden head tables and a combination of round and rectangular tables, all paired with elegant wooden cross-back chairs. These thoughtful touches create a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can dine, dance, and celebrate in style.
Located at 1424 Macon Hwy, Warrenton, GA 30828, this family-owned venue offers a personal touch that sets it apart. Reach out at 706.829.4613 or visit their website at TheBarnsAtGunnStewartFarm.com. You can also find them on Facebook at The Barns at Gunn-Stewart Farm and Instagram at @TheBarnsAtGunnStewartFarm to start planning your dream day.
The Reception Barn
TO MY
Valentine
ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Create timeless keepsakes for those you love with this easy DIY Valentine Stationary. There is something special and reminiscent of our earlier years of creating homemade valentines for those special in our lives. While stores are filled with Valentine candy, cards and gifts, the thoughtfulness and time put into to a handmade card holds a different meaning. Words are the things we treasure most, so let those you care about most know how you treasure them this Valentine’s Day.
What you will need
• Kitchen Knife
• Red or Russet Potato (for heart)
• Romaine Lettuce (for rose)
• Acrylic Paint
• Paint Brush
• Blank Envelopes
• Blank Cards
• Heart Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Hand Lettering Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Light Box
Instructions for Heart Prints
1. Cut the potato in half. Using a small knife, carefully carve a heart shape onto the flat side of the potato. Carve freestyle or use the free template under “DIY Stationery” on the blog at silvertoothhome.com/ blog/diy-stationery. Even when using the template, each carving will come out as unique art like the ones you see here.
2. With a paint brush, apply paint to the heart shape on the potato.
3. Stamp the potato heart onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Instructions for Rose Prints
1. Cut the end off of romaine lettuce. Set leaves aside and use the stem.
2. Using a paintbrush, apply paint to the lettuce stem.
3. Stamp the lettuce “rose” onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Once your stationery is completely dry it is time to add beautiful Valentine’s Day lettering. If you have beautiful handwriting then draw free hand. If you’re not as confident use a light box and my hand lettering template (found on the blog at SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIYstationery) to transfer lettering onto the stationery. To do this, first lay the hand lettering template on a light box with the stationery on top. Then trace the hand lettering onto the stationery with a pen or marker of choice.
FEBRUARY 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 8TH
Augusta Symphony Sounds from the Heart
Miller Theater
Join the Augusta Symphony at the Miller Theater for Sounds from the Heart - Part of the Piedmont Augusta Symphony Series. Symphony Series concerts showcase the orchestra performing masterworks by the greatest composers from history through today. To purchase tickets, visit MillerTheaterAugusta.com
FEBRUARY 14TH
Valentine's Day
Happy Valentine's Day from the Augusta City Lifestyle team! Wishing you a day filled with love, joy, and special moments.
FEBRUARY 15TH
Heart 'N Soul 5k/10k Run/Walk
Mill Village Trail Head - Augusta Canal
This fun, family-friendly event will have vendors, music, a petting zoo, and more! Proceeds to benefit Hope for Hooves Rescue. For more information, visit HopeForHooves.org
FEBRUARY 16TH
Movies at the Miller: The Muppet Movie
Miller Theater
Bring your family for a free showing of The Muppet Movie at the Miller Theater! Admission is free but you will need a ticket to enter. Tickets are available at the Miller Theater box office. Movie starts at 2pm.
FEBRUARY 21ST
Charity Soiree & Silent Auction
Augusta Shrine Club
The Augusta Partnership for Children, Inc. Charity Soiree & Silent Auction Fundraiser will be on February 21st at Augusta Shrine Club. This year's theme is "Harlem Nights," and guests can expect a night of heavy hors d' oeuvres, door prizes, and live entertainment. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit DonorBox.com/events/575220
FEBRUARY 22ND
Lee Brice: You, Me & My Guitar
Bell Auditorium
Country Music hitmaker, Lee Brice, is bringing his acoustic tour to Bell Auditorium on Saturday, February 22nd with special guest Edwin McCain! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit AugustaEntertainmentComplex.com.
