‘Tis the Season
TRAVEL
WINTER WONDERLAND ESCAPES
LIFE + CULTURE
HOLBROOK'S HIGH TEA
ARTS + CULTURE
TREE LIGHTING + SANTA'S ARRIVAL
HOME + DESIGN
HOME IMPROVEMENT WISH LIST
Wishing an Abundance of Health and Happiness!
With December's cooler weather, the holiday season draws near, embracing us in a warmth that only this time of year can bring. Streetscapes glitter with lights and homes are filled with laughter, joy, seasonal scents, and freshly baked treats. Our cities and towns transform into magical landscapes, adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and sounds of the season.
In every corner, families and friends gather to share in the spirit of togetherness. Whether it’s ice skating under the stars, watching holiday performances, or simply strolling through neighborhoods to admire the brilliantly lit houses. The season offers moments that bring us closer and the opportunity to escape to winter wonderlands! The laughter and excitement of children remind us of the simple pleasures that make this time of year so special.
This December, we celebrate not only the holiday traditions that fill our hearts with joy but also the beautiful connections we nurture throughout the year. It’s a time for reflection, gratitude, and hope. Whether you’re trimming the tree, lighting the menorah, playing games with friends and family, watching your favorite movies or simply sharing a quiet evening by the fire, the season gives us the gift of pause—a moment to cherish the present and those who make it meaningful.
Here at East Cobb City Lifestyle, we feel immense gratitude for you, our readers. Your continued support and engagement have made this year one to remember. We remain inspired by the stories shared about community members making a difference, businesses giving back and nonprofits who make a profound difference in creating lasting positive change in the lives of those who need a helping hand.
From all of us here, we wish you a holiday season filled with peace, joy, and the wonder that makes this time of year so magical.
Warmest wishes,
KEVIN KASETA, PUBLISHER @EASTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Kevin Kaseta | kevin.kaseta@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Catherine James | catherine.james@citylifestyle.com, Sydney Kate Lewis | sydneykate.lewis@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Catherine James, Sydney Kate Lewis, Wendy Edwards, Lisa Thompson
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
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.
Holbrook
Embrace
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: GIRLSTRONG Women’s Empowering Event hosted at Stellar Bodies Buckhead benefitting Girls on the Run Georgia. 2: Acworth Chief of Police Jesse Evans standing in for Public Safety Employee of the Year. 3: The Circle of Children members volunteer at City of Refuge annual Trick or Trunk! 4: The Circle for Children members host annual fundraiser at Top Golf supporting City of Refuge. 5: Cub Scouts Pack 710 spruces up McFarlane Nature Park. Custom Dwelling's Stephanie with son. 6: Chattahoochee Plantation Women's Club's members tour Atlanta Botanical's "Scarecrows in the Garden" 7: The Circle for Children hosts Fall General Membership Meeting at Tre Vele.
TRAN BUI PRODUCTIONS & EMMA BUKER
BODY20 East Cobb Celebrates 1 Year!
Located in the heart of East Cobb, BODY20 celebrates 1 year in helping clients unleash their bodies potential! Through proven EMS technology combined with proprietary, personalized workout experience, clients achieve results in just 20 minutes that require hours in a traditional gym. From supporting weight loss to improving strength and endurance, BODY20's experienced team invites you to book on-line your free demo to experience for yourself the many benefits of suiting up! body20.com/ east-cobb/ | 770450-6127
Author Vera Bell Scores Top Honors 2024 Best Book Awards
East Cobb resident Vera Belle's Into the Lure of Time, Timebound Publishing, was named finalist of The 21st Annual Best Book Awards. One of the world’s largest international book award programs for mainstream, indie, and self-published titles, winners and finalists were announced in over 100 categories. Vera Bell is a Georgia Author of the Year nominee and award-winning author of the Always and Forever trilogy. Through the Veneer of Time is her debut novel.
Cobb Chamber Honors Heroes at Public Safety Appreciation Luncheon
Cobb Chamber honored Cobb County's finest during annual Public Safety Appreciation Luncheon to say “thank you” and honor the men and women who keep Cobb safe. Melissa Alterio, 2024 Cobb Chamber Public Safety Chairwoman and Director of the Cobb County Department of Emergency Communications, and Lance LoRusso, LoRusso Law Firm and Blue Line Lawyer Institute, addressed audience sharing messages of appreciation. Congratulations to Engine 3 of Smyrna Fire Department who earned the Medal of Valor.
Voted Cobb County’s Best Retirement & Assisted Living Communities 5 Years in a Row!
“We’re honored that Sterling Estates of East Cobb was Voted Best Assisted Living Community in My East Cobb and that Sterling Estates Communities have been recognized “Best of Cobb” for Retirement, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. We’ve been serving Seniors in greater Atlanta for over 25+ years now... We invite you to come and experience what sets us apart.” Marshall Gill, COO & Partner, Sterling Estates Senior Living Communities
“What I’ve learned is that all communities talk about wellness and socialization... but they don’t have the wellness center, green space, programming and staffing that Sterling Estates has. No one can match what Sterling provides for their residents period. My parents are thriving at Sterling Estates... bet yours will too.” ~ Susan S.
With Home Prices so High - Never Been a Better Time to Sell & Move into One of Our Sought After Rental Cottages
Don’t Forget To Use Your FSA/HSA!
Don’t forget that your HSA/FSA benefits may expire at the end of the year.
Fall is the perfect time to invest in your health and use those benefits for an Eye Health Wellness Assessment, new glasses, or contact lenses!
Don’t let the year slip away without making your health a priority.
Beat the year-end rush; schedule your eye exam today!
CHRISTMAS HIGH TEA
ARTICLE BY WENDY EDWARDS
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
HOLBROOK LIFE'S COMMUNITY RESIDENTS AND FAMILY CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS TOGETHER
The communities of Holbrook Life give residents an opportunity to make great friends, experience world-class, culinary delights and engage in fun-filled activities that enrich lives and create memories. With four locations in the metro-Atlanta area, including Acworth, Decatur, Woodstock and Sugar Hill this connected community seeks to welcome, inspire and entertain its residents, creating a well-lived and satisfying life. Imagine tables brimming with the likes of smoked salmon crostinis, cranberry-orange scones and dark chocolate Madeleines. The air is filled with sweet scents and you fade away in nostalgia as you listen to Nat King Cole’s voice belt out another holiday tune. This is the scene of the 2nd Annual Christmas High Tea at Holbrook Communities and is quickly becoming one of Metro Atlanta’s most coveted events.
CONTINUED >
Tosha Holbrook, Chief Marketing Officer at Holbrook Life, became inspired by visiting various high teas with her daughter. Ms. Holbrook remarks, “I have the best memories with my daughter going to different High Teas in and around the greater Atlanta area.
Ms. Holbrook wanted to ensure this event would be a great way for residents to celebrate the festivities of the season. “What a great event to host in our communities where many generations can dine together. In 2023, we launched our Christmas High Teas at our Acworth, Decatur and Woodstock locations. This initially was open to residents and family members, and Holbrook Club members,” says Ms. Holbrook.
To prepare for such an event, Ms. Holbrook and the community’s chefs visited the St. Regis to experience how an elegant high tea might be presented. “We all had a great discussion on what we liked and what we would do differently,” says Ms. Holbrook.
With an offering of both savory and sweet bites along with five organic loose-leaf teas, the chef’s team has thought of everything. Ms. Holbrook reveals, “Each person receives their own teapot with as much tea as he/she would like.”
To summarize, these are great events to host in Holbrook Life communities where many generations can dine together with elegance and style.
http://www.holbrooklife.com/
CELEBRATE
THE SEASON
Holiday at home with these local festivities!
ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES
On December 5, the Marietta Square illuminates with holiday cheer, festive faces and a warm glow from the main attraction: the Christmas tree! But, this family-friendly community event is so much more than a tree lighting. The hours of 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. will host local performances, a chance to write letters to Santa, an ugly sweater parade, an arrival from Santa himself and the lighting of the tree—marking the official start of the holiday season in Marietta!
No need to leave the county for a glimpse of Georgia’s largest residential light display. Kennesaw residents host Lights of Joy every December, featuring over 1.2 million lights that encapsulate 246 trees, 60 Holly bushes, a “Tunnel of Joy”, the house itself and the “Inner Circle”—a walk through light display. With a $5.00 donation, residents can park at Futures Church for easy access.
Ring in 2025 at The Battery Atlanta’s New Year’s Eve Bash. With an early countdown to the New Year (for those early bedtimes) followed by GRAMMY nominee Brady Rymer’s performance, and a traditional late-night countdown featuring A-Town A-List and unforgettable firework and confetti displays, there’s something for all ages!
1. MARIETTA: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING & SANTA ON THE SQUARE | DECEMBER 5
2. KENNESAW: LIGHTS OF JOY | DECEMBER 1
3. THE BATTERY ATLANTA: NEW YEAR'S EVE BASH | DECEMBER 31
New Years Eve Bash
GOOD HOLIDAY VIBES
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Just like that, it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. And while you may still be stuffed from all the turkey, it’s time to start planning the ultimate holiday party. I’ve included some tips and tricks to make it the absolute best time for your guests.
1. Setting the atmosphere is crucial. The mood is subjective to the type of party you’re having, though. This could include a tree in the corner, an advent wreath on
the table, a menorah on the counter, or other decor aligning with your celebration. Either way, I personally recommend lighting a fire in the fireplace or playing a looping video of one on your television to create a festive and cozy ambiance.
2. Holiday games act as engaging entertainment. I once played a game where little trinkets from the Dollar Tree were wrapped in a massive ball of plastic wrap, and guests had 30 seconds to unwrap as much as possible
Embrace the season with these holiday party tips and tricks
before passing it to the next guest, claiming the unwrapped trinkets as their prize. It definitely gets the adrenaline up and provokes quite a few laughs at the random items wrapped inside.
3. Food and drinks play a massive role in the holiday party scene as well. Whether a simple apple dip (8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup toffee bits served with apple slices) or a festive drink, such as a cranberry Moscow mule (2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries with a sprig of rosemary for garnish), serving holiday-themed food and drinks amplifies the atmosphere.
4. And, of course, the most important part of any holiday party: the playlist. While everyone is stood around mingling, it is crucial to have some festive background noise. Even though the classics are just that—classic—don’t forget to include some of today’s greatest holiday hits:
• Christmas Isn’t Cancelled (Just You)Kelly Clarkson
• Drummer Boy - Justin Bieber
• Fancy Like Christmas - Walker Hayes
• Hot Chocolate - Tom Hanks
• It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody CriesCarly Rae Jepsen
• Naughty List - Liam Payne featuring Dixie
• Redneck 12 Days of ChristmasJeff Foxworthy
• Stretchy Pants - Carrie Underwood
• Text Me Merry Christmas - Straight No Chaser featuring Kristen Bell
• The Chanukah Song - Adam Sandler
A Holiday Home Improvement Wishlist
For when visions of new landscapes, decluttered spaces and natural lighting dance in your head.
ARTICLE BY CATHERINE JAMES
While you’re writing wishlists and dreaming of things to ask for this holiday season, don’t forget to consider your space. Does the state of your current home match up with the one in your dreams? If not, add a few renovations to your list. While spring and summer is the best time to tackle home improvement projects, now is a great time to start planning (and saving) for your next home makeover. We’ve rounded up some of East Cobb’s most trustworthy home improvement businesses capable of making even the biggest of wishes come true.
Arbor Hills Construction
Sidewalk cracks, discolored driveways and deteriorating patio decks tend to be overlooked when keeping the home pristine. You may not realize just how much these tiny flaws affect the appearance and durability of your home until you’ve addressed them. In fact, industry experts estimate that installing or redoing the driveway alone can increase property value by 5 to 10%. That, along with greater curb appeal and safer outdoor surfaces, is enough to consider adding new concrete to your list of home renovations.
Arbor Hills Construction has been serving metro Atlanta’s hardscaping needs for 30 years now. They specialize in laying concrete for driveways, walkways, retaining walls, patios and pool decks. With a dedication to their customers and the ability to accommodate specialized needs without compromising quality, they’re a top choice in East Cobb.
They state “it is important to us to deliver unparalleled workmanship on every assignment,” and promise both durable and cost effective results.
Residents (especially those inside city limits) may need to obtain permits before laying concrete or installing retaining walls. This process can take several weeks, so it’s best to start the planning process now and prepare to have your new driveway, patio or walkway installed as soon as possible!
arborhillsconstruction.com
Meer Electric
Whether you have an electrical issue that needs to be addressed or you’re looking to upgrade your home’s ambiance, Meer Electric is prepared to tackle any rewiring or installation needs safely and effectively. As a full service electrician, they offer a full scope of electrical work from repairs to lighting to smart device installation to ceiling fans to EV (electric-vehicle) charging stations.
Meer Electric urges customers who may be dealing with electrical issues to always turn off the power to an area before touching anything electrical. And if possible, to avoid DIY repairs altogether and go straight to the experts to prevent safety hazards or costly mistakes.
For those simply looking to enhance their living space or increase home value, Meer Electric suggests installing energy efficient lighting, upgrading electrical panels or adding smart home technology and generators to make your life easier while giving your home a longer life.
Don’t hold off! Kick-start your home’s upgrade by reaching out for a free estimate and getting the process started today.
meerelectric.com
Brawner Renovations
If you don’t already, incorporating a usable outdoor space into your humble abode—whether for grilling, relaxing or entertaining—may be the change your home needs. Elements like these allow you to personalize your space to your lifestyle, and are often the features that transform just any old house into YOUR home.
Brawner specializes in a variety of outdoor structures that bring both form and function to usable outdoor spaces. If you already have a space in mind, Brawner suggests making things more interesting with low maintenance composite decking, modern features like horizontal rod rails or cable railing, or adding elements like StruXure louvered pergolas or outdoor fireplaces. If you don’t have a space, Brawner can help extend your living space beyond the indoors with additions to the home like porches, decks or outdoor kitchens.
With a direct and open line of communication, Brawner is easy to reach and ready to help you start planning today. Depending on the size, projects can take anywhere from 3 to 16 weeks for completion, so be sure to discuss timelines with your project manager up front.
brawnerrenovations.com
Window World of Atlanta
Introduce more natural light to your space, reinforce your home’s security while impressing guests or protect your home from the elements, all with enhancements from Window World. With an extensive selection of thoughtfully crafted windows, doors, garage doors and roofing solutions, there’s so much more to consider than shape and size when it comes to windows or any other home entry point. As the first things guests see when visiting, windows and doors have a huge impact on the overall look and feel of your entryway and the first impression it makes.
Whether you find yourself reaching out to Window World for highly sought-after black windows—a key part of the timeless, farmhouse look— for new siding options to transform your exterior and enhance curb appeal, or for entry doors that are both aesthetically pleasing and secure, Window World offers all customers a lifetime warranty on products.
“This warranty reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their products and their commitment to customer satisfaction,” explains Makensie Stowe, marketing director.
This, in addition to pricing that is lower than nationwide averages and energy-efficient models in both doors and windows, makes these cost-effective home improvements. Residents can increase home value, cut energy costs and reap the long-term benefits of eye catching, functional doors and windows.
Closet Designs and More
After giving the foundation of your home a makeover, it’s time to address smaller-scale issues, like clutter. Nothing adds an eyesore to an otherwise stunning space like unnecessary clutter. It can be easy to believe the lie that mess is inevitable with kids, pets and busy schedules, but Closet Designs and More begs to differ. They have been installing solutions to clutter problems across the county for years.
Whether you need help organizing a wardrobe, pantry, office or basement, Closet Designs and More has state-of-the-art storage solutions for each. Their functional designs and tactics for maximizing space are completely unique, which is why they advise against DIY-ing storage spaces. According to co-owner Jason Ianitello, their garage cabinets have become exceedingly popular for that reason. Because creative solutions like theirs are less common, they are more desirable than storage traditionally put into homes by builders, which can set your home apart and in turn, increase its value.
With 3D technology, new clients can preview their final space as soon as quotes are determined and measurements are taken. This is the perfect opportunity to get a sneak peak of your dream storage space to add to your wishlist before the holidays are over!
closetdesignsandmore.com
Local services we recommend adding to your wishlist this season:
• Sidewalk, driveway and hardscape projects from Arbor Hills Construction
• Smart home installation from Meer Electric
• Adding a pergola or fireplace to your entertainment space with Brawner Renovations
• Replacing doors and windows with energy-efficient alternatives using Window World
• Revamping your wardrobe with Closet Designs and More
Brawner Renovations
A
ARTICLE BY LISA THOMPSON
Magical,
and Mysterious Istanbul
Mystical,
city of contrasts
It lures you in…the mystery of it. It has been described as the collision and collusion of old and new, east and west, Islam and Christianity. It’s one of the most fascinating cities on earth. Istanbul.
I recently made my second visit to this incredible city after 15 years away. I had forgotten its allure – the sights, sounds, the smells and riveting history. The only city straddling two continents, it blends the cultures of Europe and Asia into one fascinating, unforgettable experience. Istanbul, formerly Constantinople, has been the seat of two of history's greatest empires, the Byzantine and Ottoman. During the height of their power, these two kingdoms stretched over three continents. They created long-lasting cultural norms and mighty military institutions while simultaneously constructing architectural wonders that still stand today. The city is the cradle of Orthodox Christianity, while also home to the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque (500s), Blue Mosque (1600s), Topkapi Palace (home of the Ottoman Sultan), the cisterns built by Justinian I, and many more iconic monuments.
Istanbul originated as a settlement in the seventh century BC. In the 300s AD, Emperor Constantine I relocated his realm’s capital from Rome and founded the city of Constantinople, giving rise to the 1,100-year Byzantine Empire. The city was pivotal in advancing Orthodox Christianity until the Ottoman conquest in 1453, which turned it into an Islamic stronghold, blending two of the world’s greatest empires and cultures. The modern Republic of Turkey though was formed in 1923 under the direction of the national hero, Mustafa Antaturk. What you see today is the result of 1,700 years of melting.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this unique city is the juxtaposition of Islam and Christianity. Several active mosques, including the fifth-century Kariye Mosque, were originally constructed as churches and retain mosaics of Jesus, Mary and Christian prophets. So the Christian symbols can remain undisturbed, the mosaics are covered during Islam’s five daily calls to prayer.
Egyptian Spice Market
Hagia Sophia
“Istanbul, formerly Constantinople, was founded by the first Christian
Roman
Emperor, Constantine the Great - one of the most important emperors in Roman history.”
important cohort continues to celebrate Christmas, and the tourist areas of Istanbul are decorated with lights and holiday decorations as the day approaches. The Church of St. Anthony of Padua in the district of Beyoğlu hosts world famous musicians during the season and is a well-known destination for celebrating Christmas.
However, Istanbul’s more popular holiday is New Year’s Eve. Interestingly, some of the traditions we consider strictly Christian are also part of the Turkish celebration of the New Year. Muslims erect and decorate a tree, placing gifts under it for distribution. Noel Baba, the Turkish version of Santa Claus, brings presents on New Year’s Eve.
This is also true at the Hagia Sophia. The Byzantine architectural marvel transitioned from almost a thousand years as one of the world’s largest cathedrals to a mosque during the Ottoman Empire, to a history museum in 1934, and back to a mosque and historical museum under the current political administration.
I found this coexistence of religions to be both insightful and thought provoking – another unique aspect of this memorable city.
While over 90 percent of Turkey’s people are Muslim, the Christian minority is vibrant. The small but historically
The gift-giving does not replace the more common international traditions for the day, though. Fireworks light up the skies over the Bosporus Strait and residents enjoy all-night street parties. Typical foods include turkey, chicken and local dishes. Many revelers wear something red to bring good luck in their romantic lives.
While Istanbul does not have seasonal holiday markets, it does offer famous bazaars for shopping yearround. I visited both the Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Spice Market. When you visit, be prepared to bargain – it’s expected! You can spend hours exploring the textiles, the jewelry, the mounds of spices and ceramics. I, of course, talked myself into buying a beautiful
handmade rug to decorate my home. I had forgotten from my previous visit how much fun it was shop in such an energetic atmosphere while I lost myself in a maze of stalls and exotic products from across the globe.
Istanbul’s wine and food scene delivered another wonderful surprise on my second visit. The city abounds with upscale restaurants and bars, many of them rooftop. One favorite is Roof Mezze 360, where I dined on fresh fish and delicious Turkish white wines, while enjoying an incredible view of the Bosporus Strait. Another amazing restaurant in the same area is Olde 1772. Drop by for tea or a glass of wine, and the ambiance will entice you to stay for dinner.
On the other side of the Bosporus Strait, stop in for another glass of Turkish wine on the rooftop of the Peninsula Hotel, where the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace serve as your backdrop. To complete your food tour, I highly suggest
trying some of the street offerings, especially the roasted corn and chestnuts. And no day is complete without baklava or Turkish Delight, the national dessert, enjoyed with tea or coffee. I have to admit, I made sure to partake on a daily basis.
As I got ready to depart Istanbul, I was thankful to have once again experienced this city of contrasts thriving side by side. It’s no small thing to walk the same streets as so many great historical figures and to stand on the sites of world-shaping events, both ancient and modern.
And to top it off, I made some new friends in my tour guides, Taha and Ali. I highly recommend these two young men! They even asked their mothers to prepare a picnic for us to enjoy under the ancient city walls (www.istanbulsecrets.com).
For this lady, saying farewell did not mean goodbye but rather until we meet again.
From our family to yours, wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season.
*Showroom by Appointment* We truly care about our clients and community. We are committed to providing an exceptional client experience and offer a warranty unique to the industry providing 100% satisfaction.
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.com
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ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Wonderlands Wonderful Winter
VENTURE LESS THAN A FIVE HOUR DRIVE OF EAST COBB TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF NATURE
Photo credits: Blackberry Farm
The South is home to many destinations steeped in beauty. Whether you’re staying in Georgia or visiting Tennessee and the Carolinas, these four destinations will leave you in awe.
Often called “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon,” Providence Canyon State Park features striking canyons. Cloaked in shades of orange, pink, purple, and red, the vibrant colors of the walls are emphasized after the leaves have fallen, revealing unobstructed views that create a picturesque backdrop. Offering year-round camping and several trails, including the Canyon Loop Trail through nine canyons and the Backcountry Trail with unique flora like the rare plumleaf azalea, visitors have the opportunity to explore the canyon floor and view the park’s distinct geological formations up close while being just 2.5 hours from East Cobb.
Approximately the same distance to the east lies Table Rock State Park. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this destination is known for its stunning natural beauty. With various activities perfect for enjoying South Carolina's mild winter outdoors, visitors can explore a range of hiking options, including the Carrick Creek and Lakeside Trails, which provide a more tranquil hiking experience compared to the busier summer months. Events like “Music on the Mountain” let guests enjoy live bluegrass music at the lodge, creating a cozy holiday vibe in the mountains. Camping is available year-round, with a winter deal offering discounts for extended stays. While colder temperatures may keep lake activities quieter, you can still enjoy fishing, kayaking, and various picnic sites, making it easy to plan a day outdoors with a warm meal and hot drinks.
A little over three hours north, you’ll find Blackberry Farm, a Relais & Châteaux resort in
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Providence Canyon
Photo credits: Blackberry Farm
Photo credits: High Hampton Resort
Walland, Tennessee. Spread across 4,200 acres of countryside in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, this resort offers rolling pastures, tranquil forests, and breathtaking mountain views, contributing to the beauty and serenity for which the farm is known. During the winter, guests can enjoy hiking trails through snow-dusted forests, horseback riding along scenic paths, and guided birdwatching. The Wellhouse Spa offers treatments, including massages and wellness therapies, perfect for unwinding after a day in the cold. Guests can savor unique farm-to-table meals crafted from seasonal ingredients at on-site restaurants. Holiday events, including culinary celebrations and seasonal music, add festive charm to the winter months at Blackberry Farm. Additionally, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smokey Mountains, guests can enjoy winter sport activities including sledding and cross-country skiing at Newfound Gap located just 45 minutes away. Before heading out on your winter wonderland adventure, check road conditions to ensure travel is unimpeded.
Heading 4.5 hours north to Cashiers, North Carolina, you’ll arrive at the historic and luxurious mountain retreat of High Hampton Resort. Providing a serene getaway surrounded by pristine lakes, lush forests, and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this resort blends rustic charm with modern amenities. It offers a cozy array of activities that embrace the beauty and charm of the cooler season, including scenic hiking trails, fireside storytelling sessions, and s’mores around the fire pit. High Hampton organizes wine dinners, cocktail receptions, and fitness classes as part of its curated "Winter Weekend Getaways," combining classic seasonal activities with the resort's signature lodge-style comfort to create a memorable experience for everyone
Table Rock State Park
Table Rock State Park
Photo credits: High Hampton Resort
