Happy holidays, friends
Well, we made it through the election cycle and now it's time to get serious about the holidays. Now, that's a blessing!
This year, my family will celebrate with a trip to the Dominican Republic to stay at Villa Cantamar, one of the magnificent vacation rental homes from The Kristy Collection. Can't wait! I'll share photos and a story in an upcoming issue.
For years, we've vowed to take a trip together instead of scheming, shopping, making, and wrapping. I love all those things, so we'll see how the new plan goes. Stand by.
In the meantime, savor the holiday inspiration from Boxwoods, gift guide from our staff photographers at Firelite Studios, and an award-winning kitchen from Sub-Zero.
If you're hosting out-of-town guests and have turned your guest room into a home office or painting studio, check out our recommendations for hotels to book for your visitors (or yourself).
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Joyous Kwanzaa to one and all!
All my best,
SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @BUCKHAVENCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Hayat Nawd | hayat.nawd@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Louise Davie | louise.davie@citylifestyle.com
Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Summer J. Robinson
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Firelite Studios
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Aleks Kapett, Sean O’Keefe, Summer J. Robinson
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
city scene
1: Angela Cassisi from The Chiarabella Gallery flanked by BuckHaven's editor and publisher. 2: Chattahoochee Riverkeeper honored advocates at their annual Patron's Dinner. 3: Funds were raised to keep the Hooch clean and healthy. Circe Tsui of Georgia Women Fly Fishers. 4: Kalley Elmore Range, Circe Tsui, Megan Nellen 5: Generous guests at the CRK celebration. 6: Laura and Rutherford Seydel at the CRK Patron's Dinner. 7: Friends celebrate CRK's work to keep the 430 miles of river protected.
Recieve items in stock before Christmas!
Chattahoochee is in Good Hands
“I couldn’t have been happier with my decision to give Absolute Image Consulting a try, it has been by far my favorite place I’ve had over all my years. I find their hair systems to be top notch, the most up to date on the market, as are all the hair products that they offer. I can’t say enough good things about the company and staff.” - Client Testimonial
“My experience at Absolute Image completely changed my life. After suffering from hair loss since college, I’d also lost most of my self esteem and confidence along the way. The quality is truly astounding. They gave me my life back. They have me myself back. My only regret is not choosing this sooner and saving myself all those rough mornings in the mirror. If you’re considering hair replacement - do it.” - Client Testimonial
Friends of Chattahoochee Riverkeeper raised a toast to 30 years at a landmark event that featured remarks from our founders, congratulatory messages from Senator Jon Ossoff and former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, and Jason Ulseth’s annual State of the River address, all of which were met with a standing ovation. Honorees include Georgia Women Fly Fishers, Troup County, the City of LaGrange, and Cox Enterprises for their contributions to the river’s protection. Chattahoochee.org
School Break Camps
School’s out—time for FUN! Ready Set Fun’s School Break Camps turn Winter Break (December 23 - January 6) into full days of excitement. From cool crafts to awesome activities, your kids stay entertained all day long, while you enjoy a stress-free day. Reserve your spot now for endless fun. 404.596.5566 ReadySetFun.com
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Wallace and Gromit: Get Cracking!
The Children’s Museum of Atlanta’s newest exhibit, Wallace & Gromit: Get Cracking!, transports visitors to the cozy North England home of the cheese-loving inventor Wallace and his loyal dog, Gromit. Blast off in Wallace’s rocket to the moon, fix the broken Autochef, and design your own cracking contraptions in the interactive exhibit. Ideal for ages 3 to 9, the exhibit also includes a “tot spot” for children under three. ChildrensMuseumAtlanta.org
Christkindl Market is Here
Buckhead Village is unwrapping new and returning favorites this holiday season! The shopping and dining destination invites guests to join in and be merry at its property-wide holiday celebration on Saturday, December 7 featuring festive workshops, market pop-ups, live music, carolers, seasonal food and warm beverages, and more. Plus the annual Atlanta Christkindl Market with The German American Cultural Foundation will officially return for its fourth year through December 24. www.buckheadvillagedistrict.com/
I'm Dreaming of a New Kitchen
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
’Tis the season to enjoy cooking for friends and family, celebrating blessings and a bright new year. Time in the kitchen should be a joy, and beautifully designed appliances are the cornerstone of a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. While stainless has been the queen of the kitchen in recent years, color is gaining popularity.
“Clients have been asking, and we listened - bring on the color,” says Shannon Lewis, Regional Marketing Manager for Sub-Zero Group Southeast. “Durable powder-coated steel doors in striking white or black offer new alternatives to classic stainless steel. Wolf is now offering new finishes for Dual Fuel Ranges and has added knob and bezel accent colors for Wolf Dual Fuel Range, Professional M Series Built-In Oven, or Professional Gas Cooktop.” Look for design-forward finishes like brushed brass or gray, or stick with the iconic red knobs with stainless bezels.
For serious home chefs, the Convection Steam Oven is at the top of the wish list. “More than setting a temperature and cook time and hoping everything turns out, by utilizing steam, convection, or a combination of the two, this oven offers a diverse collection of nuanced cooking environments that deliver flavorful food meal after meal,” Shannon explains. For big holiday meals, that’s a blessing.
Shannon is among the experienced team that includes SubZero’s outside sales and the luxury concierge showroom. “Each
Sub-Zero announces top designers for dreamy kitchens
team member is uniquely tailored depending on their role, but all work together to truly provide an unmatched consumer experience,” she says. The outside sales team includes Debbie Killeen (Trade Representative), Lisa Connor (Territory Sales Manager), and Rob Zuelch (Territory Sales Manager). Whether on-site consultations, personalized product presentations/trainings, or addressing client-specific needs, this team is dedicated to building strong, lasting relationships with our dealers, builders, and anyone within the design trade community.
The showroom consultants and on-site chefs, run by Vicki Stevens (Showroom Manager), provide a hands-on, immersive experience for clients. In the showroom, customers can see, touch, and experience products firsthand, gaining insights that go beyond catalogs and screens. This team is all about personal interaction in a stress-free, non-retail space to answer questions, give advice, and ensure that clients leave with a sense of confidence and excitement about their appliance selections.
Recently, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove – the industry leaders in premium refrigeration, cooking, and dishwashing – announced Karen Ferguson and Bulent Baydar with Harrison Design as a Global Winner of the Kitchen Design Contest at its Winners’ Summit and Gala.
Karen placed in the Traditional Kitchen category for her kitchen design “In Perfect Balance.”
“Karen’s design is simply exceptional. The creativity, attention to detail, and innovation she demonstrates have truly set a new standard for not only kitchen design, but this global contest as well. We are incredibly proud and value such a great partnership,” said Rob Maxam, President of Sub-Zero Group Southeast.
Sub-Zero Group, Inc. manufactures best-in-class appliance brands Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove. Founded in 1945, Sub-Zero Group, Inc. is the leading American-based manufacturer of refrigeration, freezer, and wine storage products. Sub-Zero, the preservation specialist, pioneered the concept of dual refrigeration, ensuring that food stays fresher longer.
With the acquisition of Wolf Range Company in 2000, Sub-Zero Group, Inc. added the industry specialist in residential cooking appliances, with products including ranges, cooktops, wall ovens, warming drawers and ventilation equipment. In 2018, SubZero Group, Inc. launched the Cove brand of dishwashers, the specialist in all things clean. Oh la la!
SubZero-Wolf.com
MERRY EVERYTHING
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEN JACKSON | FIRELITE STUDIOS
When we featured Chiarabella Gallery on our September cover, while the kitchen design stole the show, the flowers on the counters were a close second. Only a bold and confident floral design could hold up next to the beautiful textures and distinct European lines of Chiarabella’s countertops and bespoke cupboards.
The stunning flowers were from Boxwoods, a Buckhead tradition for all things garden and home. At home on East Andrews, Boxwoods offers inspiration for gardening,
Boxwoods lights up BuckHaven
landscaping, as well as giving and decorating healthy houseplants. And yes, fresh flowers for the discerning hostess and guest alike.
We asked Boxwood’s Susan Anderson and her team to choose a few favorite holiday ornaments and decorating accents for this story and they must have been hard-pressed to narrow the choices. The store is teeming with beautiful flourishes to appeal to traditional, rustic, and more modern tastes.
For a more natural rustic Christmas setting, Susan likes these carved wood tabletop trees in various heights to be grouped or centered among a display with other gifts from nature. Add your collection of shells from your latest beach vacation, pine boughs (Boxowoods has them) or soft ethereal textures.
For the tree or wreath, traditional and more modern glass ornaments have been curated from various designers across the globe. Add one or two to your collection or pick up a handful for hostess gifts and family keepsakes.
A visit to Boxwoods will put you in the spirit and leave you humming carols for the rest of the day.
Give Creativity & Fun
FIVE THOUGHTFUL HOLIDAY GIFTS TO SPARK JOY
ARTICLE BY ALEKS KAPETT
Gift-giving should be fun, not a last-second stressor that turns you into a Grinch. Seeing that special smile light up is a hard feeling to beat, so, here’s a list of gifts that blend creativity, a touch of retro charm, and just enough practicality to keep everyone happy and engaged as we bring 2024 to a close.
FLASHBACK DIGITAL CAMERA
As a storyteller and photographer, I might be biased, but The Flashback Digital Camera is where it’s at. This little beauty captures that vintage vibe with just enough tech to keep it easy. Snap a photo, and boom, you get that retro, ‘70s film look, straight to your phone. It’s the kind of gift that says, “Hey, I thought about this,” instead of, “Hey, I grabbed this on my way here.” JoinFlashback.co
GALAXY STAR PROJECTOR
If you don’t understand my perception of the holidays yet, you will with this gift. Holidays equal magic, and the Galaxy Star Projector delivers just that. You’ve got the lights dimmed, a toasty cup of hot chocolate, the fireplace is crackling, and suddenly your whole room is transformed into a starry night sky. It’s like bringing the Northern Lights into your living room, minus the frostbite and plane ticket to Iceland. It’s not just for kids’ rooms either, adults love it too. TheOriginalGalaxyProjector.com
TEENY-TINY CHRISTMAS TURNTABLE
Need a little extra charm in those stockings? This is one of the cutest, most incredible items to break out. It’s like those old-school record players we all secretly wish we had time for—except it fits in the palm of your hand and doesn’t need you to flip any records. It plays cute little snippets of holiday classics, making it feel
“It’s like
like you’ve got your own personal soundtrack to the season. Think of it as the fun-sized candy bar of music— small, sweet, and always hits the spot. Amazon.com
FUJIFILM INSTAX MINI
Keeping memories stuck in the digital world is kind of like buying a cool vinyl record then streaming it on Spotify. Enter Fujifilm Instax Mini. This gadget takes your favorite photos and instantly turns them into that classic Polaroid we all know and love. It’s perfect for handing out snapshots at family dinners or creating an impromptu gallery wall of the season’s best moments. Instax.com
PHOTO ALBUM / POLAROID SCRAPBOOK KIT
Every great holiday deserves a place to live on. After you’ve snapped those perfect shots and printed them out, this kit gives you a home for all those memories. It’s the perfect gift for anyone who loves turning a pile of photos into a story—something you can flip through long after the decorations have come down. To this day my mom has an album (my sister and I put together) in her living room as decoration, and I’ll still be laughing at some of the ridiculous Christmas memories we decided to throw in there. Vienrose.shop
And there you have it! My top five picks to make your loved ones’ holiday experiences just a little brighter this season. These gifts are about sharing joy, sparking creativity, and capturing those unforgettable moments that make the holidays so special. Here’s to making this season merry, memorable, and maybe even a little bit picture-perfect!
Happy Holidays from all of us at Firelite Studios and City Lifestyle Magazines.
Your North Georgia Real Estate Team
714 Scouts Overlook | Morganton
4 Bedroom | 4.5 Bathroom Newly Offered at $2,049,000
This brand-new, custom-designed 4-bed, 4.5-bath mountain modern chalet by Tony Boyatt, built by Tommy Wosyluk, offers stunning, layered mountain views and is featured in the 2024 Blue Ridge Mountain Parade of Homes. Located in Elevation at Scouts Ridge, it boasts open, spacious living areas with natural stone, rustic wood, and metal accents, plus expansive decks for entertaining. Professionally furnished by Krystal Sumner and sold turn-key, it provides privacy yet is close to shops, restaurants, and Lake Nottely.
BETHEI R GUEST
PLANNING FOR A HOLIDAY STAYCATION OR CONCERT AND OVERNIGHT?
ARTICLE BY SUMMER J. ROBINSON & BUCKHAVEN CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MADELYNNE GRACE & PROVIDED
“The towering new property features 976 rooms.”
HOTEL GRANADA
How I’ve managed to live in Atlanta my whole life and never been to Hotel Granada is beyond me! Although the hotel just opened August 2024, the building has been around since 1924 and it is truly a work of art. From the beautifully designed courtyard to the charming rooms, this hotel is the perfect place for a weekend getaway or your out-of-town guests who would enjoy staying in Midtown. After checking into my room, I enjoyed drinks at the downstairs May Peel cocktail bar and learned about the history of the hotel. Drinks were followed by dinner at the Pom Court. Although I experienced the quaint luxury of Hotel Granada during the week, I will surely be back on a Friday or Saturday night when I can take my pick of enjoying live music out on the courtyard or vibing out near the DJ set with a cocktail in hand at May Peel. Summer J. Robinson 1302 W Peachtree St NW GranadaAtlanta.com
The Signia by Hilton is one of Atlanta’s new hotel options aimed at tourists and business travelers with its access to the Georgia World Congress Center, MercedesBenz Stadium and State Farm Arena.
During our recent stay, we dined at Capolinea, a fine-dining restaurant on the fourth floor, where we were welcomed with Prosecco and enjoyed the skyline views. Our server suggested a family-style approach to their Italian-American menu and highlights included the halibut crudo and Nonna’s traditional bolognese. We also enjoyed ice-cold martinis (made tableside) and ended our evening with scoops of homemade gelato.
The towering new property features 976 rooms, a pool, spa, fitness center, and six signature food and beverage options. It is perfect for guests attending concerts and events at venues downtown. 159 Northside Dr NW, Atlanta Hilton.com
SIGNIA BY HILTON
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
It’s a Bling Thing
Colorful rings
A little bling goes a long way.
A little bling goes a long way. Here are a few pieces we’re loving for the holidays.
Bead Tennis Bracelet from A’Lex Diamonds. Elevate elegance with this 14kt white gold bracelet, featuring 1 carat of dazzling diamonds. A timeless piece from Alex Lexington Diamonds, perfect for those seeking luxury in every detail.
Inside Out Hoop from 14kt white gold, featuring 3.5 carats of brilliant diamonds for a captivating sparkle. A signature Alex Lexington Diamonds piece.
Each of these colorful rings is crafted in 14k gold and set with natural-colored sapphires. Available in yellow, white, rose, black and even green gold. Worthmore Jewelers
A cool gift for those hard-to-shop-for men on your list. This hand-forged Mokume Gane money clip inlaid with cocobolo wood makes the perfect statement of style. Pro tip, put a lucky $2.00 bill in the clip before you gift it. Sure to bring a smile to their face. Worthmore Jewelers CONTINUED >
Hand-forged Mokume Gane money clip
Inside Out Hoop Earrings
Bead Tennis Bracelet from A’Lex Diamonds.
Brown & Co. is the first retailer where fans can purchase the Atlanta Falcons edition of the Breitling Chronomat B01 42. Part of Breitling’s collection in honor of the NFL’s 104th anniversary, each team’s watch is limited to 104 pieces, making them true collector’s items. From Brown & Co. Jewelers
A collection of pretty 14k yellow gold necklaces: Mini Butterfly, Pink Quartz Compass, Dia Pave Squid, Pink Sapphire Butterfly, 18k yellow gold Large Mother of Pearl & Diamond Sole, Turquoise Bug Charm, Diamond Pave Serpent
Also from LA Stein: 14k yellow gold Diamond LOVE charm. 18k yellow gold Diamond Stella Star Locket, Mixed Tahitian Pearl Choker, Diamond Tiara Adjustable Tennis Necklace. All from LA Stein.
WHERE TO SHOP
Worthmore Jewelers WorthmoreJewelers.com
Brown & Co. Jewelers 3005 Bolling Way BrownJewelers.com
LA Stein LAStein.com
Alex Lexington A’Lex Diamonds AlexLexington.com AlexLexingtonDiamonds.com
Breitling Chronomat B01 42 at Brown & Co
Charming charms from LA Stein
14k yellow gold necklaces
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
DECEMBER 2024
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
THROUGH DECEMBER 15TH
'Twas the Night Before Christmas by Cirque de Soleil
The Fox Theatre
A thrilling interpretation of the wellknown holiday classic, ‘Twas the Night Before…, as only Cirque du Soleil could conjure it. This joyful show about the virtues of generosity and friendship promises to leave a lasting impression on families this holiday season. Cirque du Soleil’s first-ever holiday production is a whirlwind of love, holiday cheer, and adorably endearing characters. CirqueDuSoleil.com
DECEMBER 4TH
Beginner American Mah Jongg
Explore Brookhaven Boardroom | 12:00 PM
Learn the American version of the fun, challenging, social tile game, Mah Jongg, in a 2 session beginner class which will cover a brief history of the game, game equipment (racks, pushers, tiles, mat), and more. Wednesdays December 4 and 11 from noon - 2:00. This course is $95 and includes two weeks of learning and gameplay.
DECEMBER 13TH
Leslie Odom, Jr., The Christmas Tour
Woodruff Arts Center | 8:00 PM
Leslie Odom, Jr. is a multifaceted Tony and Grammy Award-winning, threetime Emmy, and two-time Academy Award-nominated vocalist, songwriter, actor, and New York Times bestselling author. With a career that spans all performance genres, Odom has received recognition for his excellence and achievements in Broadway, television, film, and music. ASO.org
AN EVENING OF HOLIDAY FAVORITES BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND
FEATURING
CONTINUED
DECEMBER 15TH
Buckhead Heritage 2024
Holiday Gathering
Private Home | 6:30 PM
Buckhead Heritage is excited to announce that our Holiday Gathering will carry on our tradition of cocktails, buffet, and music. Buckhead Heritage's very first Holiday Gathering in 2014, was held in this home. Contact Richard Waterhouse for more details, 404.467.9447 or email at him at rwaterhouse@buckheadheritage. com. BuckheadHeritage.com
DECEMBER 19TH
Handel’s Messiah
Woodruff Arts Center | 8:00 PM
Performing the hit song "Let It Go"
Thursday, Dec. 19 | 7 p.m. Scan for tickets
First performed in 1742, Handel's oratorio Messiah (Part 1) heralds the joy and hope of the season that has delighted audiences for generations. World-class soloists and the internationally acclaimed Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus transport you to a world of grandeur and beauty with this glorious masterwork and its ever-popular “Hallelujah Chorus.” ASO.org
DECEMBER 31ST
NYE Staying Alive
Arnette's Chop Shop, Suite 55, 2700 Apple Valley Road | 10:00 PM
Fifth annual Staying Alive New Year’s Eve celebration. Join them from 10 p.m. until the wee hours of the morning of January 1 in their courtyard for a latenight party featuring 70s & 80s disco tunes and a NYE countdown. NYE diners at Arnette’s, HAVEN, or Valenza’s receive complimentary entry to the party as well. ArnettesChopShop.com
ROUTE
