To Decatur with Love
As we step into February, we shine a light on individuals and organizations whose passion and dedication make Decatur the place we all know and love. These stories remind us of the power we have when we come together to create something bigger than ourselves.
We’re excited to feature Han Pham, a true force in our community. As the Executive Director of Her Term and the visionary behind the Decatur Lunar New Year Festival, Han exemplifies what leading with authenticity and resilience means. Her tireless commitment to uplifting women in politics paves the way for a brighter future in Georgia. Her work extends far beyond her professional life, balancing family and a host of community projects with grace.
In this issue, we also celebrate the 60th season of the DeKalb Symphony Orchestra, an institution that has brought beautiful music to our community for decades. Under the guidance of Music Director Dr. Paul Bhasin, the orchestra continues to grow and reach new audiences across DeKalb County. As they mark this milestone, the DSO is expanding its outreach, bringing the joy of classical music to even more corners of our community.
Another gem we’re proud to spotlight is The Friends School of Atlanta. This unique Quaker school emphasizes not only academic excellence but character development, with values that encourage students to grow into compassionate, thoughtful individuals. Their holistic approach to education, which includes social-emotional learning and a commitment to diversity, makes them a cornerstone of our community.
In addition to these inspiring stories, we highlight Colleen Nelms, founder of Othús Perfumery, creating truly unique and intimate gifts for Valentine’s Day. We also offer tips for a romantic February, including a guide to crafting the perfect floral bouquet and mixing cocktails that will set the mood for any celebration.
We’re head over heels for you, Decatur! We hope you feel inspired by the stories within these pages and continue to support the incredible individuals who make our community so vibrant.
To Decatur with Love,
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Caroline Ficken | caroline.ficken@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Natalie Fox | natalie.fox@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Brooke Felder | brooke.felder@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Josh Cornwall, Brooke Felder, Natalie Fox, Brandon Malcolm
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Matt Boggs, Allison Fenton, Dave Martinez, Ben May, Boon Vong, John Wachs
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 Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
CAROLINE FICKEN, PUBLISHER
business monthly
Mead Road Mardi Gras Parade
Join us on Saturday, March 1, 2025, for the Mead Road Mardi Gras Parade! Starting at 1 PM from Fifth Avenue Upper Elementary, heading down Oakview Rd, and ending with a festival at The Imperial on College Ave. Since 2013, the parade has celebrated Mardi Gras and raised funds for arts in City Schools of Decatur. Learn more, form a Krewe, or sponsor at mrmg.org. Laissez les bons temps rouler!
A Meaningful Feast 2025
“A Meaningful Feast” returns to the Decatur community on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Decatur’s Legacy Park. Global Growers’ culinary celebration of our diverse local food movement, and annual fundraiser, will feature Honorary Host Mayor Patti Garrett. Chef Terry Koval will lead an array of allstar local chefs and mixologists to provide an incredible farm-to-table experience. A limited number of individual tickets on sale February 18th at globalgrowers.org. Join us and make a difference in your community!
Romantic Travel Destinations + Wine Tasting
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a traveling wine tasting featuring four romantic travel destinations and wine pairings, hosted by luxury travel advisor, Erin Camin of Brilliant Escapes. Sip exquisite wines inspired by love-filled locales and explore dream-worthy get-aways. A perfect evening for couples and wine enthusiasts alike! Tickets are available at bit.ly/kellysromantictasting
A MODEL OF Authenticity
HAN PHAM EMPOWERS WOMEN TO STEP INTO LEADERSHIPON THEIR OWN TERMS.
ARTICLE BY NATALIE FOX
As Executive Director of Her Term for the past three years, Han Pham speaks on the vital importance of female lawmakers with highly educated passion and verve. This commitment to community building doesn’t stop at her day job. From founding Bad*ss Asian Women to spearheading the Decatur Lunar New Year Festival, Pham’s dedication is on hyperdrive. She models authenticity and resilience while juggling all her endeavors and a full home life that includes a husband, two kids, chickens, goats, bunnies, and even peacocks! Her political impact has rippled to such an impressive degree that she was chosen for The Obama Foundation Leaders USA program. This six-month fellowship program comprises a handpicked cohort of changemakers dedicated to civic engagement. With a worldview geared towards values-driven action and intentional connections, she works to increase the number of women (especially women of color) in representative positions across Georgia by helping them perceive and claim their power.
Pham started her path of political advocacy to help others understand how policy affects their everyday lives. After leaving her corporate job and taking a yearlong maternity leave, she was revitalized to contribute to society in a bigger way, to make the world a better place for her children. As Pham says, her mission is “to help women and girls writ large find our power and help groups of people see within themselves the power they have.” With her candidates, Pham taps into their authenticity. The demands and viciousness of politics can lead to many women dropping out after serving only one term. Expectations placed on women, to be caregivers and leaders all while maintaining a ladylike facade, tear down on a person’s true self. For women of color, there’s the added layer of bias that happens every single day, constantly. Resilience is necessary to break through, not break down. Pham implemented free therapy for her candidates, which wrapped up its third
Photo by Boon Vong
year in action, to help them develop tenacity and garner strength from a supportive community. Much of politics is filled with pandering, and she has found massive value in personal stories. By sharing the candidates' true selves, the ability to connect with one’s potential constituents is increased tenfold.
Pham’s commitment to community building with true authenticity helped her land The Obama Foundation Leaders USA program. Coming together within this cohort has challenged her view of the world; The Obama Foundation is nonpartisan and by learning about democracy writ large, she has developed the courage to break out of her silos and have the uncomfortable conversations she used to avoid. This newfound appreciation for pluralism has worked its way into her vision for the future of Decatur, as well. Our community consists of highly educated and passionate citizens and people who have been left behind or forgotten. We must bring all these people into the conversation to break down barriers. Pham suggests a “citizen’s forum”. Newly adopted in Paris, these citizen assemblies take place over a twoto-three-year period, wherein constituents are chosen to represent different areas of the city for one to two months while sitting in government. This allows leadership to hear from the voices affected by their policies, while citizens learn how the political process works behind the scenes. The rotation brings in new voices all the time and could help preserve what makes Decatur great: our diversity and compassion.
One of Pham’s largest contributions to our city is the Decatur Lunar New Year Festival - February 2nd will mark its fourth iteration. While her children attended Talley Elementary, the PTO President asked Pham how the holiday could be best spotlighted and celebrated. This opened up an educational moment for all involved, and that spirit of cross-cultural appreciation continues to thrive. With Pham at the helm, alongside the collective she brought together through a secret Facebook group, Bad*ss Asian Women , the festival came to be. It has exploded in popularity, and they moved locations to include all City of Decatur schools in the vision. The Lunar New Year is a sacred and important holiday in many Asian cultures (and is one of Pham’s all-time favorites) and there’s a nuanced history for everyone to learn. Explore how the holiday is celebrated within each specific culture via their passport system; adults and kids alike can get their passports properly stamped after learning and doing a craft at each station. This modern festival brings different cultures together - and it isn’t just for Asians, it is for everyone else, too!
Han Pham helps individuals and communities find their “special sauce” - the unique tasks that cultivate joy while serving a greater purpose. She models the importance of amplifying one’s skill set, placing more women in power, and taking time for wellness. Energizing, empowering, and an example of true community contribution, our city is better off for her empathy-led and strategic leadership.
Photo by Allison Fenton
Photo by
Boon Vong
Bring Your Boo Date Night
Enjoy
THE SYMPHONY at Sixty
Celebrating the 60th season of the Dekalb Symphony Orchestra.
ARTICLE BY BROOKE FELDER
Paul Bhasin, Conductor. Photo by M3MORY STUDIOS
Photo by Ben May
No matter the year, the DeKalb Symphony Orchestra's mission has remained the same: enriching the lives of the community through the power of music. This year, the DSO celebrates its 60th season, bringing decades of classical favorites and new works for an ever-evolving audience right in our own backyard.
Founded alongside DeKalb College in 1964, the DSO was first considered the college's Orchestra-in-Residence. Executive Director Catherine MacGregor says they're trying to go beyond that historic venue to connect more deeply with diverse communities throughout DeKalb County. "The idea is, we come to you. You don’t have to come to us in Clarkston," said MacGregor.
In its 60th season, the DSO has performed at local venues like Smoke Rise Baptist Church and Glen Memorial on the Emory campus, as well as a children's concert in downtown Decatur in January.
Since 2022, Dr. Paul Bhasin has served as the Music Director and Conductor for the DSO. He also conducts the Emory University Symphony Orchestra and Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra.
At the heart of DSO is its community-driven nature. While the orchestra does feature professional musicians in key positions like concertmaster and principal cello, many of its members are volunteers. “We have neuroscientists, teachers, and passionate musicians who donate their time to perform,” says MacGregor.
The DSO bid farewell to one of its first members who performed for all 60 seasons. Kathy Schlag, Cellist, joined the symphony in its first season in 1965. Her final concert with the DSO was on the opening night of the 60th season in September.
Looking toward the future, MacGregor envisions even greater outreach and artistic growth for the DSO. “We want to continue raising our artistic level and expanding our impact. The support we receive from our community is vital to that growth,” she says.
To mark this momentous year, the DSO has launched its "60 for 60" campaign, encouraging supporters to donate $60 in honor of the orchestra's six decades of service.
"We’re celebrating 60 years and we want people to know we’re here to stay. We’ve been part of the community for so long and hope to be here for another 60 years," said MacGregor.
Photo by Dave Martinez
Photo by Dave Martinez
On the Scent
THE ART OF STORYTELLING THROUGH THE SENSE OF SMELL AT OTHÚS PERFUMERY.
ARTICLE BY JOSH CORNWALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT BOGGS
Valentine’s Day is a season of stories—tales of love, good memories, and deeply held connections. For Colleen Nelms, founder of Othús Perfumery, storytelling is the essence of her craft. “Perfume is storytelling,” Nelms shares. “It’s about creating an experience, a memory, or a feeling through scent.”
Othús Perfumery, nestled intimately in a small structure in Nelms’ Decatur backyard, invites customers on an aromatic journey. Nelms draws on her background in botany and natural medicine to craft plant-based perfumes that are profoundly personal and evocative. Each fragrance begins with a thought or memory. For example, her scent "Zephyr" is inspired by a New Orleans breeze, while "Midnight Magnolia" evokes the sultry blooms of a Southern summer night.
Choosing a perfume for a loved one is an intimate gesture. Nelms advises starting with a simple question: “How do you want the perfume to make them feel?” Whether warm and comforting
or bold and vibrant, the right scent can communicate many distinct feelings or emotions. Nelms takes the time to understand a person’s preferences—florals, woods, or musks—and curates a selection to match their lifestyle and personality.
For Nelms, creating perfumes is an art: a balance of storytelling, chemistry, and experimentation. Her fragrances are layered and complex, designed to evolve with the wearer. “Perfume should first and foremost be enjoyed by you,” she emphasizes. “It’s a luxury that helps you feel special and connected.”
Othús Perfumery also reflects Nelms’s commitment to sustainability and local artistry with eco-friendly packaging and collaborations with area designers and illustrators. This Valentine’s, visit her website or find her at an area market like Mother Lode in Avondale Estates to find the perfect scent for your special someone—or treat yourself to writing a new story through scent.
Cupid’s Cocktails
ARTICLE BY DECATUR PACKAGE STORE PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLYTHE COKER
Libations for lovers, crafted by Nathan DeWitt with Decatur Package Store.
Romance is in the air with these cocktails perfect for setting the mood of a romantic evening on Valentine’s Day. Pair these cocktails with dinner or enjoy a happy hour at home before dinner.
Any missing ingredients from your bar are available at the Decatur Package Store!
The Rosey
• 1.5 oz Gin
• .75 lemon juice
• .75 simple syrup
• 2-3 muddled strawberries
• Bar spoon of rose water
Step 1. Muddle 2-3 strawberries, rose water, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker tin.
Step 2. Add gin and ice and shake thoroughly—double strain into a martini glass.
Step 3. Garnish with a sliced strawberry.
Chocolat
• 2 oz Cognac
• 4 dashes Cocoa Bitters
• Absinthe-soaked sugar cube
• Splash of water
Step 1. Add the ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and stir until the sugar fully dissolves.
Step 2. Pour over a large, single ice cube.
Recipes by Nathan DeWitt who tends bar at The Subway Speakeasy in Decatur.
CULTIVATING DIVERSITY IN EDUCATION
The Friends School takes a holistic approach to learning.
ARTICLE BY BRANDON MALCOLM PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN WACHS
Amongst the myriad of school and sports team stickers seen on cars across Decatur, you’ve no doubt noticed at some point a purple burning candle logo reading “The Friends School of Atlanta”.
“You’ll see flexibility in the way we teach because not every kid learns the same way.”
Serving Decatur and its surrounding communities since 1991, The Friends School of Atlanta is the only Quaker school in Georgia. “Our Quaker values set us apart,” says Dot López, Head of School. “It’s not a religion. It’s a set of beliefs that honors every individual's Inner Light.” The Inner Light in Quakerism is the belief that every person carries a divine presence within them, connecting them to truth and goodness. “We’re all in community seeking truth together.”
Part of the Quaker network of 76 schools across the country, The Friends School of Atlanta (FSA) takes a uniquely holistic approach to education, emphasizing curiosity and inquiry-based learning over rote memorization. “Of course parents want their kids to get good grades,” says Lopez, “but more importantly, they want them to have strong character. That doesn’t happen unintentionally.”
This focus on character building can be seen through the Quaker “SPICES” guiding values (Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship) which permeate the education atmosphere at FSA. “We believe no one person owns the truth,” says Lopez. “We teach ‘continuing revelation’, the idea that learning is a never-ending process as one of our core values. I come into school with a humble posture every day because I can learn so much from our students.”
That posture of humility and openness creates a learning environment at FSA that’s unlike anything one may experience in a more traditional setting. In addition to core classes, students engage in social-emotional learning which emphasizes the value of openness and conflict resolution skills to manage emotions and build relationships.
Dot López, Head of School
“There’s a compassion and sincerity you see here [that] you just don’t always see from kids,” says Wil Norris, Communications Manager and Instructor. “They actually see each other. They don’t just say ‘sorry’ if they do something wrong. They verbalize the problem, look each other in the eye, and apologize with honesty. It’s amazing to see 7th and 8th graders doing what a lot of adults struggle with.”
The Friends School's holistic approach to education and community has been taking diversity, equity, and inclusion to heart since before “DEI” was buzzing in the news. “Diversity has always been part of the fabric of our schools,” explains Lopez. “Quakers are social justice people. We have always been advocates for civil and human rights. It’s part of our DNA.”
Diversity at The Friends School goes beyond simply a mixture of race and gender. It is evident how diversity plays a vital role at FSA- from non-traditional classrooms to standing desks and areas that encourage silent reflection. “You’ll see flexibility in the way we teach because not every kid learns the same way,” says Lopez. “We love to spend time outside, moving, conversing. We encourage students to be curious and adapt the learning experience to the way each individual learns best and meet them where they are. That makes them feel seen and supported.”
The emphasis on diversity can also be seen in unexpected ways such as the Buddy Program, where 8th graders are given the opportunity to mentor the school’s youngest students and share an experience with someone in a different phase of life- highlighting the diversity of age. Students are encouraged to discuss and debate issues in meaningful, respectful ways even when they disagreehence, diversity of opinion.
“Of course parents want their kids to get good grades, but more importantly, they want them to have strong character. That doesn’t happen unintentionally.”
“The conversations these 7th and 8th graders are having are nothing like the conversations I was having at that age,” Norris reflects. “They are having real talk about culture and community. They’re learning how to have healthy debates. It’s the result of listening to understand, not just to respond.”
Learning to understand and not just respond is one of the many virtues taught by a pillar of Quaker practice: Silent Meeting. “Our entire community gathers every week to sit together in silence” explains Lopez. “From our 3-year-olds to 8th graders and teachers. It’s time to come together and recognize our community and our shared search for the truth. Silence connects us and helps center ourselves. It keeps all of us open to seeing each other's truth.”
As proud members of the Decatur community, FSA fosters community connections well beyond the classroom. Through initiatives like Community in Action Days, the entire Friends School of Atlanta family comes together to make a positive impact both locally and beyond, reflecting the belief that education is just as much about living out the values of community and stewardship.
“We welcome all who are curious,” says Lopez. “We understand that building up students' character is essential and encourage anyone from the community to join us on this journey.”
To learn more about The Friends School of Atlanta and their approach to education, or to schedule a tour, visit friendsschoolatlanta.org
With Heart in Every Case
Hendrick & Henry Law delivers justice with care, compassion, and a personal touch.
ARTICLE BY JOSH CORNWALL
Love is in the details—and for Hendrick & Henry Law, the commitment to the details makes all the difference for their clients.
Whether guiding clients through personal injury cases or advocating for fair outcomes in criminal and civil matters, the nimble law firm on McDonough approaches each case with care and compassion while promising personalized service.
Led by Troy Hendrick and Joseph Henry and a small team of committed attorneys and paralegals, Hendrick & Henry stands out in a crowded industry by building authentic client relationships. “All my clients have my personal cell phone number,” Henry shares. “It’s about being available when they need answers, which builds trust and reduces stress during challenging moments.” This hands-on approach and focus on clear communication help the firm meet— and often exceed—client expectations.
Hendrick & Henry’s passion for justice extends beyond their cases, too. From packing backpacks for local students to offering steady guidance in uncertain legal landscapes, they have earned a reputation for being more than just lawyers—they are advocates who genuinely care about their clients and the community at large.
At Hendrick & Henry Law, justice isn’t just served—it’s delivered with heart, turning challenges into meaningful partnerships and a lasting peace of mind.
Photo by Jessica Quinones
How To: Valentine’s Day Bouquet
Jill Joyner started Pop Up Flowers in a streak of inspiration. She calls that time period a “mid-life reidentification of self” and it led to a life filled with what she loves most: arranging beautiful flowers amidst a community of creatives with the flexibility to care for her loved ones. She also loves to teach and has shared tips on crafting a stunning and long-lasting arrangement for Valentine’s Day.
First, start with greenery. Think of it as the base coat on your canvas. Then, select three types of flowers: a thriller, a filler, and a spiller. The thriller is the focal flower, the filler adds whimsical movement, and the spiller provides structure and stability. If something doesn’t look right to your eyes, it’s probably about the scale. Ensure the flowers are not too low - they should be 1.5 the height of the vase. Joyner recommends working in odd numbers and utilizing a variety of petal sizes and colors. Once complete, spray a wax solution all over (she likes Crowning Glory) to seal in the moisture and keep it longer lasting. Change your water every 2-3 days and put a fresh cut at the end of your flowers. Voilà!
Jill Joyner shares her process and time-honed tricks for creating and maintaining flower arrangements.
Center Photo: The final product. / Top Right: Joyner reflexes her roses to increase their size. Bottom Left: These purple roses serve as thriller alongside the red Heart Roses. / Bottom Right: Daisies are one of Joyner’s favorite filler flowers.
FEBRUARY 13TH
Romantic Travel Destinations Wine Tasting
Kelly's Market | 6:00 PM
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a traveling wine tasting featuring four romantic travel destinations and wine pairings, hosted by luxury travel advisor, Erin Camin of Brilliant Escapes. Sip exquisite wines inspired by love-filled locales and explore dream-worthy getaways. Tickets are available at bit.ly/kellysromantictasting -- A perfect evening for couples, Galentine’s Day gatherings, and wine enthusiasts alike!
FEBRUARY 27TH
2025 Black History Month Celebration – DeKalb History Center
Historic DeKalb Courthouse | 11:00 AM
Hosted by the DeKalb History Center, join Monica Foderingham as she explores the Caribbean diaspora's influence through food, film, and music. Charmaine Hooke-Powell shares her immigration journey and the moment she embraced her Black identity. Enjoy music by Nzinga Benton and a spectacular meal from Phenomenal Foods by Chef Holly. A vibrant celebration of culture and identity.
