Vinings December 2015 by City Lifestyle

Vinings

DECEMBER 2015

ViningsLifestyle.com

THE BEST OF SMYRNA & VININGS

™

Gifts Galore! GET YOUR HOME HOLIDAY READY SET A DELICIOUSLY SIMPLE DESSERT TABLE PERFECT PRESENTS FOR EVERY PERSONALITY

Lifestyle Letter

Merry Christmas! H

appy Hanukkah! Happy Kwanza! Happy New Year! Good tidings to all! I'm thrilled to celebrate the holiday season with you this year. The weather is crisp. Lights are twinkling. And my children's wish list is getting longer by the minute. The holidays have definitely arrived! This issue is chock full of some of the greatest gifts you can give for the holidays (including some you may want yourself)! It was a hard job culling through dozens of products to pick the best ones, but it was worth it! I hope you find the perfect present for the perfect person this season. My husband and I prior to a Be sure to also check out the beautifully photographed recent pre-Holidays trip. article about creating a holiday dessert table sans the stress. And the alluring Home for the Holidays feature has splendid tips from the experts at Modify Atlanta to get anyone's home holiday-ready with a few simple steps. With the erratic nature of the holidays now upon us, I plan to jump into it full force. This is the time when memories are made. It's the time for cookie baking, tree decorating and ornament making. It's the time for fireplaces, carols and hot apple cider. It's the time of year when a few bars of "I' ll Be Home for Christmas" can make me tear up. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year. My wish for you is a quiet moment to reflect on the meaning for the season and to breathe in a sense of gratitude, not for all you will get, but for all you have to give. In my bag this month, there are three gifts I'm giving myself. AppLights are amazing technology-meets-Christmas outdoor holiday lights controlled by...you guessed it...an app! ($59.95, AppLights.com). The Tile is another app-run piece of technology. It's a tiny blue-tooth tracker that will make sure I never lose my keys again! ($25, TheTileApp.com). Mionetto Prosecco is my sparkling pinnacle of this splendid season. It can turn any December day into a celebration! (about $14.95, MionettoProseccoUSA.com). As always, if you see something we should cover, email me (maria.smith@lifestylepubs.com). Or just stop me in Publix, browsing Cumberland Mall, or indulging in a creme-filled crueller at Krispy Kreme. Happiest of holidays!

DECEMBER 2015 publisher

Donald Hawkins | Donald.Hawkins@LifestylePubs.com editor

Maria R. Smith | Maria.Smith@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Rotricia Rachelle Coley, Ruksana Hussain, Laura Miller contributing photographers

Kelley Krohnert, Amy Lee

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

| Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor | Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker

COPY EDITOR

| Kendra Mathewson

APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER

| Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

Maria R. Smith, Editor Maria.Smith@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

ON THE COVER Modify Atlanta is helping us get our homes holiday ready. PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY LEE OF SMACKDAB PHOTOGRAPHY

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Vinings Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Vinings most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Vinings Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

December 2015

Departments

Good Times

Around Town

Our Contributors

Food & Wine

Tech Today

Sold Properties

Lifestyle Calendar

Parting Thoughts

16 Deliciously SimpleÂ Dessert Tables

Spice up your holiday gathering with a dessert table sure to impress.

24 Holiday Gifts For Everyone On Your List

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Good Times

Fall Fun in Vinings

Pumpkins, super heroes, princesses and more flooded ViningsÂ neighborhoods thisÂ October for Halloween parties, Fall Festivals, and of course trick-or-treating! The folks at Swim Revolution even got in on the fun!

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

Just Expect More

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Good Times

I Love to Read Week

Whitefield Academy celebrated "I Love to Read" week with its adorably fun Red Tricycle parade. Lower School students brought their favorite children's book characters to life in a magnificent and colorful display of costumes.

Third graders Avery Alexander, Annabel Farrar, Reagan Marvel, and Tanner C.J. Jordan, Natalie Gressler, James Sharp, Angel Fisher, and Alex Keck don Richardson dress as flappers from Little Melba and Her Big Trombone. country garb and pull a wagon to protect Sophie’s Squash.

Third Grade: Grayson Lows, Ben Cochran, Charles Ben Cochran, third grade, dresses as a jazz musician from Little Melba and Her Big Trombone. Sharp, Ava Brooke Ellenburg, Carter Hightower

First grade: Jake O’Connor and Kacie Parker join the parade. PreK4: Joy Stanfield, Tori Grace Terry and Jack Holton are happy to be included in the fun. 10

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

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Around Town

SHOP FOR A CAUSE TO SUPPORT ST. JUDE A holiday tradition like no other, the St. Jude Thanks and Giving campaign brings together celebrities, media, retail and corporate partners in an unprecedented way each holiday season to raise funds and awareness for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which leads the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. What began as a holiday-focused fundraising effort created by Marlo, Terre and Tony Thomas (the children of St. Jude Founder Danny Thomas) has now grown into an annual tradition that has raised more than $588 million in its 11-year history. Beginning in November and running through the end of December, consumers can support L-R: Ben Hunter (North Fulton Rotary), Cherry Gipson (Smyrna Rotary), Jay Treadwell (Smyrna Rotary), Colonel Janet Prince, Ken Crowell (President, East Cobb Rotary), Tim Bailey (President, Marietta Metro Rotary), Michael Martin (President, South Cobb Rota

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital while they shop at

ROTARIANS DONATE 1000 BOOKS TO COBB COUNTY JAIL

ment, pursue visionary research, and to make sure no

a variety of businesses representing diverse brands in retail, restaurant, travel, and beyond. These funds support the hospital’s mission to provide cutting-edge treat-

family ever receives a bill from St. Jude.

The Cobb County Jail just got about 1,000 gently used books

And you don't even have to leave Vinings to support the St. Jude

and magazines thanks to dozens of generous Rotarians at East

Thanks and Giving Campaign! Retailers like Best Buy, Party City,

Cobb Rotary, South Cobb Rotary, Marietta Metro Rotary and

Home Goods, Marshall's, and Domino's are stores you probably shop

Smyrna Rotary. The project started with Rotarian Jay Treadwell,

in or cruise by on a daily basis. Consider stopping in to support their

who had boxes of gently used books that needed a home. Last

connection with the valiant work at St. Jude. There are over 70 retail-

year, Smyrna Rotary donated about 450 books and magazines to the Smyrna Jail, but now they have all that they can handle. Contacting Cobb County Jail was the next logical choice, and they responded eagerly to the idea. Why books? South Cobb Rotary’s President Michael Martin explains: “The inmates in the Cobb prison system are people like us who have dreams, hopes and wishes that have been deferred because of criminal activity. Showing care and concern for their wellbeing may help rekindle and make possible the dreams, hopes and wishes that were put on hold.” East Cobb Rotary’s President Ken Crowell adds, “Inmates are just like the rest of us—they need to be intellectually stimulated to be productive. It’s our hope that these books and magazines will help give them a glimpse of what life can be after their release.” The project was fairly straightforward. “We just asked members in the clubs to find gently used books and magazines from their own collections,” says Smyrna’s Narayan Sengupta. “We also bought a few at Goodwill and elsewhere. We added ‘Donated by Rotary’ labels to as many of the books and magazines as we could. The total project cost was under $100, but the value was thousands of dollars.” After distributing the books to the Cobb County Jail, the Cobb County Sheriff 's Office was both thankful and appreciative that Rotary took an interest in promoting literacy in the incarcerated individuals in Cobb County. This donation will help all involved remember that there are those who care about everyone in our community, regardless of their circumstances. 12

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

Marlo Thomas and St. Jude kids

ers that are all part of the Thanks and Giving Campaign to use their profits and prestige to help St. Jude find cures and save children. “During one of the busiest times of the year, our partners make supporting the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital an integral part of their holiday strategy,” says Richard Shadyac Jr., president and CEO of ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “Throughout the campaign we ask people to ‘Give thanks,’ and we are truly thankful for our partners, their employees, customers and St. Jude supporters who enable us to continue working until we reach the day when no child dies from cancer.” To join the fight against childhood cancer this holiday season, you can donate at StJude.org. You can shop with participating business partners and donate at the register. You can also follow

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Andretti Indoor Karting & Games is now open in Marietta.

ANDRETTI INDOOR KARTING & GAMES OPENS IN MARIETTA Billed as Marietta’s most unique entertainment complex, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games opened recently. This is the company’s second Geogia location. The first location was established in 2001 in Roswell, Ga. All the locations feature high-speed super-karts for kids and adults (ages 8 and up), European-style tracks, a state of the art arcade featuring 120 of the latest games, Sky Trail ropes course, 4,000-square-foot laser tag arena, zip line, XD motion theater and Cruden racing simulators. The brand new Marietta location is also home to The Andretti Grill, a full bar and restaurant serving a chef-inspired menu, as well as SkyBar, a glass enclosed bar on top of the racing track. Throughout the bars, restaurants and gaming area, there are over 100 flat screen TV’s to catch all the sporting action elsewhere in the world. For prices, hours, and additional information, check out AndrettiKarting.com/marietta. December 2015 | Vinings Lifestyle

Our Contributors MEET DECEMBER'S CONTRIBUTORS

Rotricia Rachelle Coley - As an event designer, stylist, and photographer, Rotricia Rachelle Coley finds joy in helping others celebrate life in style with those that matter most to them. Rotricia Rachelle is known for her custom elaborate themed dessert tables. Her work has been featured in Kara’s Party Ideas, Everyday Party magazine, and Catch My Party. Rotricia Rachelle is a wife and mother of three and resides in Smyrna with her family. RachelleGrace.com

Ruksana Hussain - A freelance writer and editor, Ruksana works with local and national print and web media outlets as well as corporate clients and custom content companies. She specializes in long form features and shorter blog-style stories covering travel, dining, lifestyle, community, business and other diverse beats. RuksanaWrites.com and TravelerAndTourist.com

Amy Lee - A native Atlantan, Amy Lee can be found exploring the city with her children and her camera. Seeing how fast her kids are growing up and changing, Amy is on a constant mission to capture both the special and ordinary moments of life; in her own family and her clients. Through her company, Smack Dab Photography, Amy is able to share her passion for making memories. SmackDabPhotography.com

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Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

Laura Miller - Laura is an Atlanta native who possesses an unusual passion for the written word. From creative short stories to folk songs, business writing to human interest journalism, Laura has written a little bit of everything and enjoys a challenging topic. Currently, she writes for numerous local publications as well as small businesses. OmniaWriting.com

Kelley Krohnert - Kelley of Kelley K Photography is a portrait and event photographer serving Smyrna, Vinings, and the surrounding areas. Kelley attended Emory University and has lived in the Smyrna area for over 15 years. Her specialties include corporate headshots, children and family portraits, and event photography. KelleyKPhotography.com

“A journey is a person in itself; no two are alike.” – John Steinbeck

At The SAE School, teachers lead each student on their own personal journey of self-discovery. It is not enough to simply teach. Our educational vision is the discovery of the individual and the nurturing of unique strengths and interests, the tailoring of a journey that will take the student further than even they could have imagined. Our mission and our responsibility is to make sure they are ready when they get there. Come and experience Georgia’s only true Project Based Learning school to explore where your own journey may take you.

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December 2015 | Vinings Lifestyle

Food & Wine Incorporating non-traditional elements, such a a well-loved throw, can add personality and warmth.

Fabulous Create A

Holiday Dessert Table (Without the Stress!) ARTICLE AND STYLING ROTRICIA RACHELLE COLEY PHOTOGRAPHY KELLEY KROHNERT

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

mong all holiday gatherings, there is one thing that is necessary: dessert! It's the perfect time of year to give in to our sweet desires. Are you hosting a holiday dinner party? Inviting the family over for Christmas dinner? What about desserts and cocktails with close friends? Treat (pun intended) your guests to a dessert display that is as beautiful as it is delicious. From weddings to birthday parties, dessert tables are a hot trend that can elevate any event. The use of rustic and natural elements are popular for their versatility and ease of coordinating. Think about adding a "naked cake", like the one shown from Pum's Sweets, wood dessert servers, fresh greenery and burlap fabric. Dessert tables can be delicious and fun and you can create one without piling on additional stress. And with less CONTINUED > work than you might think.

December 2015 | Vinings Lifestyle

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Food & Wine

(CON TI N U ED)

This "naked" cake by Pum's Sweets provides a conversation-starting centerpiece.

4 KEYS TO CREATING A STRESS-FREE DESSERT TABLE

1. Choose a display space and theme. Any surface in the party location can work, whether it's a traditional buffet or an office desk. Think outside of a traditional table and try something like a small dresser or vanity. Also the holidays are the perfect time to pull out those nice dishes and server ware. Try using other items in your home in a different way like the carved wood pedestal from The Bird & The Bee that is being used as a cake stand. Try to also bring the outdoors in to add texture and freshness.

Oreo peppermint truffles are a great no-bake addition to a dessert table or for a cookie exchange.

2. Use a variety of fabrics. Think about all the fabric options in your home, besides a table cloth. Grab your throw from the sofa to drape over the base of your table or as a backdrop. Pull out the pretty cloth napkins you never use. Get a few yards of beautiful fabric from a local fabric store to create a no-sew table cloth.

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

3. Mix homemade with bakery-bought items.This is a no judgment zone. There are delicious options at local bakeries and specialty grocery stores. Arrange them on a nice platter, set it on a beautifully decorated table, and even the simplest desserts look divine. Focus your efforts on making one signature dessert you can perfect in time for your celebration. If you're not a baker (or just don’t have the time), order desserts with seasonal flavors and colors from a local baker to fit your theme. 4. Relax and enjoy. With so many items on your to-do list during the holidays, it is easy to become overwhelmed. With a plan, you can enjoy the process and add that sweet touch to your next holiday celebration. Once it's time for the event, relax! Your guests will enjoy the party more if you're enjoying it too. Rotricia Rachelle Coley specializes in designing dessert experiences.

Rotricia Rachelle Coley is a Vinings resident, wife, mom of 3 and owner of A Sweet Touch by Rachelle Grace, an event design business specializing in creating dessert experiences.

Dark Chocolate Pistachio Pomegranate Bark Dark Chocolate Pistachio Pomegranate Bark

This is great packaged as a holiday gift or used as toppings for desserts like on chocolate mousse cups. INGREDIENTS

• 1 - fresh pomegranate, peeled, aerials separated • 3 - 3.5 oz bittersweet chocolate bars 70%+ cocoa (Ghirardelli, Lindt, Scharffen Berger, Vosges) • 1 - 7 oz bag of pistachio nuts, shelled and chopped • Pinch of sea salt

INSTRUCTIONS

Break up chocolate bars. Using a double boiler slowly melt chocolate. Stir until mostly melted. Remove from heat. Continue stirring until chocolate is melted, smooth and glossy. On a parchment paper-lined rimed baking sheet spread chocolate to desired thickness. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios and pomegranate aerials and gently press into the melted chocolate. Add a pinch of sea salt and allow to cool. Break up bark and store in air-tight container for up to 2 weeks. December 2015 | Vinings Lifestyle

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE:

For Foodies ARTICLE MARIA R. SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

o you have a foodie on your list? They are the people who show up to casual potlucks with perfectly iced petite fours. They gush over the lobster-stuffed snapper they had on a recent trip. They are often found browsing The Cooks Warehouse lusting over the newest set of cutlery. They are not easily impressed, but when they are, it oozes out of their every pore. For the foodies on your list, check out these five gifts to offer them something as unique as them. And if you're really lucky, they will share! Now that's a win-win!

SEAWORTH COFFEE

Deep inside most foodies there lies a coffee connoisseur as well. If that fits your loved one, give them Seaworth Coffee's ultimate cold brew experience! Their Holiday Gift Basket includes a 32-oz growler of organic cold-brew, fair-trade coffee, 8-oz of coconut simple syrup, one mason jar, one stainless-steel shaker, and Seaworth Coffee T-shirt all packaged in a custom galvanized steel tub. The package also includes recipes and a gift card for online purchasing. Sure you could go to the coffee shop that's on the corner of everyone's neighborhood, or you could give the foodie in your life the gift of an exceptional cup of Joe. $59 SeaworthCoffee.com

YEEHAW PICKLES

Think all holiday foods have to be sweet? Not so! Put a little Southern sass in your gift giving with Yeehaw Pickles. Choose two of the six flavor combinations, including Hot Damn Dills, Garlic Dills, No Frills Dills, Honey Sweet Stackers, Sweet and Spicy Stackers and Bronc Buster Beans. Have them sent directly to the person of honor, or perhaps have them to all to yourself. Low on time? Run out to Sprouts Farmers Market to pick up individual jars, add a ribbon, and voila...the perfect gift! $30 YeehawPickles.com

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

ANNIE B'S POPCORN TIN

Get your taste buds ready for this treat the whole family (and a few neighbors too) can enjoy. This huge two-gallon tin contains a classic assortment of individually bagged popcorn. Flavors include sea salt caramel, sharp cheddar and triple treat popcorn. Handmade, popped and packed to order in a party-worthy tin, its as beautiful as it is delicious. Plus, if anyone is picky or dealing with food allergies, this tin is gluten, nut, and egg free. $36 AnnieBsCandy.com

MCCREA'S CARAMELS

BRIE BRÛLÉE TOPPINGS & CHEESE BAKER SET

What do you get for the foodie who has everything? A cheese baker of course! This stylish set from Olive and Cocoa includes a classic red ceramic cheese baker with lid, a wooden spreader, and three tins of brûlée toppings, including gourmet spiced caramel almond, peppered honey orange, and cherry pistachio - to sprinkle over any brie to turn it into a sweet and savory indulgence. A ll products arrive beautifully wrapped too! $89 OliveAndCocoa.com

It is no surprise that McCrea's Caramels were recently selected by Martha Stewart as an American Made finalist. They use local, real-food ingredients and packages its caramel in beautiful recyclable containers. This is a candy that melts on your tongue and forces you to pause to enjoy it. One taste and you'll know you just had something special. Try the original caramel which is generously infused with sweet, aromatic vanilla. It's for the purist. And it's perfect. $14.95 McCreasCandies.com

December 2015 | Vinings Lifestyle

“

My son, now 3.5, started taking lessons at The Swim Revolution right at age 3. The summer before he was so afraid of the water that he wouldn't go near it. I was terrified he would fall in by accident and I would have my hands tied with my older daughter. After just 2 months of swim class, my son's fear completely subsided and he started to develop a real love for the water. By the end of this past summer he was able to swim completely independently! I cannot even explain the level of ease and confidence I had going to the pool with my kids this past summer. Before The Swim Revolution, I was terrified to be at the pool with my kids. Now I know my son would be able to save himself and stay afloat in case of an emergency. We chose to continue his lessons once summer ended because we didn’t want him to regress in his swimming skills and he seems to love it so much! I cannot wait for this coming summer when both my 4 and 6 year olds will be swimming on their own at the pool and beach! Thank you Swim Revolution!

- Andrea (Smyrna & Current Swim Revolution Mom)

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Spend a little time this winter and experience the summer you deserve.

”

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE:

For Fashionistas ARTICLE MARIA R. SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

o you have a belle of the ball on your list? That person who is always so fashion-forward you are constantly rechecking your own wardrobe? From the pint-sized princess to the teenage trendsetter, from the modern mom to the swanky senior, these gifts are sure to be a hit. Just think...you don't have to settle for a gift card this year! Check out these unique fashionable gifts that are as fabulous as your loved one!

PEARLS OF PLENTY NECKLACE FROM COLDWATER CREEK

This necklace is a showstopper. It features bubbling faux pearls set up on hematite-plated steel chain. It gives any look a reason to celebrate, and especially so during the holidays. The necklace is hand-assembled and is 20" with a 2" extender. This is the statement piece that your loved one needs to dress up any outfit! $49.95 ColdwaterCreek.com

COLOR YOUR SMILE LIGHTED LIP GLOSS

The handy side mirror and light up cap makes application of this super sexy, super glossy lip gloss easy, even in the darkest of places. It will never feather nor bleed and comes in fun colors like this Candy Apple shade that is perfect for the holidays. $24 GerardCosmetics.com

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

DANIEL RAINN

This holiday season, introduce the fashionista in your life to a hip new clothing brand, Daniel Rainn. The detailed pieces are soft, chic and feminine, yet also effortlessly sexy and cool. And all the pieces sell for under $100! The clothes are both modern and timeless and can work for a women of various sizes, ages, and skin colors. This black tank with embellished color is an example of a slightly boho chic yet feminine piece that maintains a fresh approach to fashion. It comes in sizes XS to XL. Daniel Rainn is sold at Nordstrom and many online outlets as well as boutiques throughout the country including Dakota's Boutique in Marietta. $32-$100 DanielRainn.com

THE DOLLUP CASE

The Dollup Case bymakeup artist Nikki Hynek is the perfect portable vanity for a fashionista to house their entire beauty look in one gorgeous place. They can keep their makeup stylishly organized at home or on-the-road. The hard case design protects and secures daily essentials while keeping the look of a stylish clutch. Arriving wrapped in adorable packaging and sealed with a satin ribbon, it is perfect for gift giving. $52 DollupBeauty.com

OSHKOSH B'GOSH

For many people, some of their favorite memories as children took place in Oshkosh B'Gosh clothing. And that iconic brand is still around after 117 years and wants to be in the closet of the next generation of cuties. This brand crafts high quality, affordable clothes for boys and girls that both kids and their parents can appreciate. From playtime to special occasion, OshKosh produces fun, wearable clothes for kids that are made to last. What princess wouldn't want this sparkled tulle skirt ($32) or adorbs cheetah print bow flats ($32-$34). Visit the Oshkosh B'Gosh store in Buckhead or just go online. As a bonus, they always have amazing sales! $6-$38 Oshkosh.com

CURIOSO CUFF

The days of jewelry just looking pretty are gone. Check out the Curioso Cuff, a beautiful metal weave cuff with flashing opal, that combines artsy aesthetics with functional customization. Your loved one can wear art on their sleeve for under $35! This unique bracelet comes with three interactive settings so users can match their look and mood anytime, anywhere. This eye-catching bracelet will make definitely make a stylish statement. $34.95 CuriosoCuff.com December 2015 | Vinings Lifestyle

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE:

For Families ARTICLE MARIA R. SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

here are times when buying a family gift makes much more sense than trying to figure out what each member wants individually. Perhaps its your sister and brother-in-law with eight kids, a cousins's family you aren't sure how to impress, or you're simply running out of time, money or inclination to buy gifts for everyone in one household. Whatever the case, a family gift is a great solution! These gifts can work for just about every family and let them know you are thinking of them during the holidays, yet probably won't tax your bank account or time management system too much. Happy holidays to all!

JUNIOR'S ADVENTURES BOOK SET

The holidays don't have to be all about spending money. Let them be a time to teach kids about money too. Acclaimed personal finance expert Dave Ramsey recently launched a new children's book series to teach kids lessons on spending, saving, giving, and integrity. Junior's Adventures is a set of six stunningly illustrated books that follow Junior and his friends as they navigate through situations that ultimately designed to help them learn much needed financial lessons. The series is designed for kids aged 4 to 8 but could work well even for older kids. $34.99 DaveRamsey.com

BIG FEET PJS

For a whimsical gift to keep the whole family warm, check out Big Feet PJs. These footed pajamas are as cute as they are crazy comfortable. They are made of 100 percent high-quality, micro-polar fleece and are so durable, they will last for years. Big Feet PJs are available in a variety of unisex sizes from 12M to Adult XL in 6 colors or prints: Red, Navy, Pink, Green Camouflage Pink Camouflage, and Chocolate Brown with Hearts. Want a deal? Enter EXTRA20 at checkout to get 20 percent off your purchase. $17.98 to $44.98 BigFeetPJs.com

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

THUMBS UP!

The family that plays together, stays together! Instead of giving out a board game that everyone knows (and may or may not like) give them this new one.The goal is to be the first to stack different colored rings on your thumb, based on the order shown on a challenge card. This is not as easy as you think! The challenge cards will require each player to focus on the order of numbers and match their colors. Different variations of play make this a must have party game that is as fun for little ones as it is for the big ones! Ages 6 to adult. $14.99 BlueOrangeGames.com

JUST BELIEVE: STORIES OF INSPIRATION

Just Believe: Stories of Inspiration is a beautifully illustrated paperback book that makes for a charming, yet inexpensive holiday gift. Its themes of curiosity and magic resonate throughout the year. The stories can be shared one at a time and are the perfect short tales for reading out loud to kids of any age. This collection can remind anyone to slow down and look for the inspiration of the season in even the smallest things. Don't hurry through holidays. Linger in these wonderful days. For under $8, you may want to pick up several copies! $7.99 Amazon.com

FESTIVE FEAST COMBO FROM OMAHA STEAKS

This holiday season, Omaha Steaks is offering a variety of complete meal gift combos that are sure to make everyone in the family happy. Delicious food. Little to no prep. Easy clean-up. It's the perfect gift! The Festive Feast Combo includes two legendary Filet Mignons, two Top Sirloins, four boneless pork chops, four Omaha Steaks burgers, eight potatoes au gratin, and four individual New York cheesecakes! It's a meal fit for a king (or a whole royal court)! $79.99 OmahaSteaks.com

December 2015 | Vinings Lifestyle

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About Modify Atlanta Modify Atlanta was founded in 2002 by Jack and Julia Mattern. Originally a design/build firm in Chicago, Modify’s goal was to create beautiful spaces that pleased the client. After experiencing some difficulty melding the interior design and construction aspects, the Mattern’s opened an interior design sector of Modify, and just last year, the retail store. “We are a service oriented business,” Jack says. “We aim to serve the needs of Smyrna and Vinings, as well as the entire home.” From conceptualizing an expansion to decorating a completely renovated kitchen, Modify Atlanta is a full-service home design business dedicated to providing a complete experience like no other. They are able to bridge the gap between the beautiful aesthetics an architect can design and the functional aspects a contractor brings, and create a space that looks amazing and works well in your life! 36

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

Home for the HOLIDAYS Simple Tips to Get Your Home Holiday Ready WRITTEN LAURA MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY AMY LEE OF SMACKDAB PHOTOGRAPHY

he holidays are quickly approaching, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never too early to establish a decorating motif.Â While style is an evolving thing, there are dozens of ways to embrace modern touches while keeping the things that make the holidays special. Julia Mattern, owner of Modify Atlanta, stays consistently on top of the hottest trends in decorating and has outfitted her store with an array of modern and classic holiday designs. She welcomed Vinings Lifestyle to her beautiful store and shared some of her sophisticated yet simple holiday tips for your home. CONTINUED >

December 2015 | Vinings Lifestyle

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS (CON TI N U ED)

Layer in pieces to create texture and depth.

• Bring the outside in. From the living room to the dining room, mixing natural items with metal and sparkle brings an entire new dimension to your holiday decorations. Moss, pinecones, and small fir trees are easy items to incorporate into your centerpiece, sideboard, or buffet table display. A touch of natural and organic breaks up the solid metallic or sparkle trend and provides interest and depth. • Embrace texture and layering. It’s easy for your guests to cast a cursory glance over your decorations and see all you have to offer. However, when you incorporate texture and layering to your holiday designs, the eye has a hard time picking up everything at once and will find something new with every new glance. The mix of organic items and the shimmer of ribbon lends an overall subtle Jack and Julia Mattern, owners of Modify Atlanta glamour to your home. • Don’t feel trapped by traditional color schemes.“Holiday comes in every color,” says Mattern. While it is a good idea to pick a color theme that echoes from room to room, there is no rule that says it has to be red and green! Mattern chose heather greens and tans for her dining room display, while the living room and buffet echoed with soft blues and shiny whites. If you want to embrace the classic Christmas colors, choose small items and flow those bright reds and greens throughout your home instead of inundating one room with all reds or greens. 38

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

Bring the outdoors in this year.

Use wrapped presents as decor.

• Decorate with gifts. If you really want to make a statement, keep the varying textures going with your holiday presents. While Mattern wrapped some gifts in brown craft paper with glittery blue ribbon, others are covered in metallic blue paper with burlap ribbon. The colors and textures echo the décor throughout the rest of the house yet bring a colorful pop to the tree area. • Echo your decorating theme in your food. Mattern recommends that you use the food on your buffet thoughtful; the food is a design element in itself. If your goal is a sage green and white color scheme, incorporate white cookies or cupcakes onto sage colored plates, or serve your salad course in bright white bowls. Vary the heights on which your food is displayed, using, for instance, upside down planters. Introduce some subtle sparkle, such as “snow” or small twinkle lights, in addition to natural, organic items, such as a burlap table runner. • Bring personal and sentimental items to the forefront. Holiday décor is not about perfection! It’s about creating a home that reflects you and your personality. Bring out the old art projects that your children made – there is always a place for these treasures. Put your grandmother’s silver to everyday use, or pair vintage ceramic light-up houses with pine cones and sparkly trees as a special holiday centerpiece. The holidays only come once a year, and dressing your home is an important part of the seasonal experience. With these tips, your home can be both comfortable and stylish, and your 2015 holiday season may be the best yet! December 2015 | Vinings Lifestyle

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Tech Today

Gifts for the

<TECHIE > in your Life

ARTICLE BY MARIA R. SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

ifts for the tech-obsessed can be tricky. They already seem to have everything and staying one step ahead of them can be a fruitless task. But never fear! Here are five of the newest, coolest, most unique technology gifts on the market today. Sure you could spend your paycheck at a variety of technology-laden stores and get the same thing as everyone else, but now you don't have to. Check out these seriously cool gifts for all the techies in your life.

BEVY

ZENPAD 10

Who says you have to spend hundreds of dollars to get a cool piece of technology? The Zenpad 10 tablet features a fashion-inspired design, giving it a universal and stylish appeal. Plus, with its slim chassis it barely feels like you're carrying around a great piece of technology! Luxury technology on your terms. Available now. Starting at $179.00 Asus.com

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

Finally! A way to actually see all those photos you take daily! Bevy is a Smart Photo System designed for families and its a great gift for grandparents or other family members who may not live close. With a Bevy, your family can collect all the photos from all the devices into one smart connected device. It will keep your family photo collection organized and protected and lets you, or anyone who has your permission, enjoy your photos anywhere they go. $299 Bevy.us

ROC SPORT FREEDOM WIRELESS HEADPHONES

One of the world's most popular athletes, Cristiano Ronaldo, worked together with Monster to bring you the latest in hipster headphones. ROC headphones are the pinnacle of both style and sound, with unparalleled power, dynamics, and accuracy. Monster says these are the most advanced, durable, on-ear wireless headphone ever made and they are sure to bring a smile to the face of any gift getter. These bold, fashion-forward yet functional headphones lets the user play hard, train harder, and live life louder. Get them while you can as they are selling out online. $299 MonsterProducts.com

KANGAROO

Technology should be seamless, simple and mobile. Kangaroo is all three. For $99, the world's smallest PC will be on everyone's wish list this holiday season. It's a PC that is small enough to fit in your pocket, has Internet hotspot built-in, and can connect to any monitor, tablet or iPad for access to your desktop. And more than just a work PC, Kangaroo is also an entertainment PC because it connects it to any HDMI TV enabling Windows 10 on your television. $99 Microsoftstore.com or Newegg.com

RING VIDEO DOORBELL

This is next-level technology for sure and can help keep your friends and family protected! The Ring Video Doorbell wirelessly connects to a home Wi-Fi network and sends real-time notifications to the user's smart phone when someone is at their door. With the free Ring App users can see an HD Video stream of the person at the door and speak to them using two-way audio communication. Ring Doorbell can even send an alert when someone rings the doorbell or when motion is detected. Ring Video Doorbells operate on battery power or hooked up to your home doorbell wiring. $199 Ring.com

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Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Smyrna Properties SUBDIVISION

Holden Estates Gilmore Heights Fontaine at Cooper Lake Austin Grove Cooper Lake Place Cooper Lake Place Westbrook Park Heritage at Vinings Kingston Manor Hillsdale Homes Registry At Park Avenue Registry At Park Avenue Cheney Woods Rileys Walk Forest Hills King Valley Woodbridge Crossing Paces High Park Paces Green Fox Chapel Williams Park Old Cabin Trace Churchill Downs Wetherbrooke Cedar Cliffs

BDRMS

F/H

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

% SOLD/LIST

DOM*

5 5 6 6 5 4 5 4 4 5 5 5 4 3 4 4 4 3 4 5 3 3 5 5 3

6/0 4/1 5/0 5/0 4/0 3/0 4/1 4/1 3/1 4/0 4/1 4/1 3/1 2/1 3/0 3/0 3/1 2/1 2/1 3/1 2/1 2/1 4/0 2/1 3/0

$775,000 $739,000 $681,303 $544,000 $525,125 $508,800 $515,000 $500,000 $489,900 $450,000 $425,000 $425,000 $429,000 $415,000 $400,000 $390,000 $374,900 $375,000 $359,900 $364,900 $365,000 $329,900 $329,900 $335,000 $324,900

$775,000 $703,000 $681,303 $525,000 $517,500 $512,600 $500,000 $497,500 $489,900 $464,990 $445,500 $420,000 $415,000 $405,000 $405,000 $371,000 $365,000 $365,000 $361,000 $350,000 $342,150 $337,000 $330,000 $325,000 $322,000

100% 88% 102% 96% 100% 101% 95% 100% 98% 103% 105% 97% 85% 98% 101% 87% 92% 97% 100% 96% 91% 102% 94% 93% 99%

4 451 0 82 252 3 29 16 214 8 4 36 124 17 5 41 38 40 11 25 88 4 71 79 15

Information compiled from First Multiple Listing Service and Georgia Multiple Listing Service from dates of 10/1/15 - 10/31/15.

Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and not a complete list of all activity. *DOM=Days on Market

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www.thesmyrnateam.com December 2015 | Vinings Lifestyle

December Lifestyle Calendar

DECEMBER 3 VININGS JUBLILEE CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING VININGS JUBILEE Join Vinings residents for an old-fashioned Christmas tree lighting complete with holiday music, festive foods, Vinings Express train rides, face painting, balloon artists, and photos with Santa. This free event will kick off the holiday season in Vinings!

DECEMBER 1 - JANUARY 3

DECEMBER 4 - 6

HOLIDAY IN THE PARK

SHOPPE ARTISIAN

SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA

COBB GALLERIA

Guests can gather around the 25-foot Christmas tree and wit-

What if your favorite vendors from Grommet, Etsy and Pinterest gathered

ness the nightly ceremonial lighting and even take the North

together and offered their most innovative, handmade creations in a sin-

Pole Express to see Santa himself. Holiday in the Park runs select

gle, hands-on venue? Shoppe Artisan showcases a curated collection of

nights from November 21 – January 3. More information can be

distinctive, handmade products like these goodies from Doux South Pick-

found at SixFlags.com/OverGeorgia.

les. Start a new holiday tradition and don’t miss Shoppe Artisan’s premiere.

DECEMBER 1

DEC 12, 13, 19, 20

SMYRNA HOLIDAY CELEBRATION & CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

CHRISTMAS ROYAL TEA AND YULETIDE BALL

SMYRNA COMMUNITY CENTER

EARL SMITH STRAND THEATRE

Watch Santa light the big Christmas Tree at 7 p.m. and trans-

Start the evening with High Tea with Prince Goodtidings and Princess

form downtown Smyrna with brilliant lights. Enjoy holiday festivities,

Joy. Afterwards, learn some royal dances at the Grand Yuletide Ball. All

musical performances, activities for the kids, parade and a visit with

guests are encouraged to dress up! Ticket includes a gift bag of goodies

Santa at the Smyrna Community Center. This annual event marks

that includes an autograph book. Tickets are $15. Limited space available.

the beginning of the season of lights in Smyrna's downtown.

DECEMBER 3

DECEMBER 18 CHRISTMAS AT BRAWNER HOLIDAY PARTY & COAT DRIVE

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING IN THE SQUARE

TAYLOR-BRAWNER PARK

GLOVER PARK AT MARIETTA'S HISTORIC SQUARE

Take this opportunity to join neighbors and friends and get a

Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. with performances by local school cho-

taste of the season by giving the gift of warmth. Come to Tay-

ruses. Santa will make his grand entrance at 5:20 p.m. and light the

lor-Brawner Park and Brawner Hall with a giving spirit and enjoy

giant Christmas tree at 6 p.m. More entertainment will follow while

holiday activities for the whole family while helping those less

Santa visits with children in the gazebo until 8 p.m.

fortunate. Look for more information at SmyrnaCity.com.

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

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business directory ANIMALS & ANIMAL CARE Dogma Dog Care (770) 436-4346 dogmadogcare.com

Paces Ferry Veterinary Clinic (770) 436-9822 pacesvet.com PawPrints of Buckhead (404) 794-7387 pawprintsofbuckhead.com Uptown Pups (678) 842-0041 uptownpupsonline.com

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Vinings Gallery (404) 794-7762 viningsgallery.com

AUTOMOTIVE

Global Imports BMW (800) 294-1853 atlantabmw.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS A+ Pediatric Dentistry (678) 391-7453 atlantakidsmiles.com

Atlanta Smiles & Wellness (404) 262-7733 atlantasmiles.com Smile Envy Dental Group (404) 334-2482 mysmileenvy.com

EDUCATION SAE School (678) 239-3200 saeschool.org

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

The Music Studio at Vinings (404) 351-9722 tmsvinings.com

FASHION & ACCESSORIES Union Diamond (770) 319-9155 uniondiamond.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS DDP Yoga Performance Center (678) 424-8202 ddpyogapc.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Englishman’s Fine Furnishings (404) 351-4464 englishmansfurniture.com

LEGAL SERVICES The Champion Firm (404) 596-8044 thechampionfirm.com/

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Gardner Dermatology and Medical Spa (770) 952-2100 gardnerdermatology.com Mona Lisa Touch Atlanta (404) 581-0307 monalisaatlanta.com

OTHER

Atlanta Braves (404) 522-7630 atlantabraves.com

Modify Home (678) 424-8595 modifyatl.com

Hotel Indigo Atlanta-Vinings (770) 779-1762 hotelindigo.com/atlvinings

HOME SERVICES

The Swim Revolution (404) 354-1180 theswimrevolution.com

J&J Landscaping and Tree Service (770) 433-9333 jjtrees.com Lisa’s Natural Home Cleaning Service (678) 898-9253 lisasnatural.com Spartan Kitchen & Bath (770) 333-9918 Universal Windows of Atlanta (770) 906-6666 universalwindowsatlanta.com

INSURANCE

American Family Insurance Raphael Fisher (770) 779-1826 raphaelfisheragency.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

Keller Williams Cityside - The Smyrna Team (770) 874-6200 thesmyrnateam.com The Realty Group (678) 564-2555 therealtygroupga.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Zama Mexican Cuisine (770) 485-5176 zamamexicancuisine.com

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Parting Thoughts

Get Ready... The Holidays are Coming! WORDS RUKSANA HUSSAIN

t is amazing how each year passes by a little faster. In January, I seem to have razor sharp focus and a calendar of goals to hit, achievements to accomplish, quarterly, monthly and weekly to-do lists I take pride in compiling. Catch me mid-year and I am still on a roll. Not sure what happens after that though. The year just hits me full on and I tumble through the next few months before it dawns on me – December has arrived. And I find myself totally unprepared for the holidays. December brings with it a slew of holiday parties, holiday gifts, holiday plans, holiday travels, holiday clothes, holiday EVERYTHING, yet it always seems to sneak up on me. The holiday season happens at the same time every year, without fail, so why do I find myself unprepared for the madness it will unleash in my life? The party invitations start rolling in, the save the dates happen, the ‘who will bring what to the party’ email chains get chugging, the calendar has way too many reminders, and no number (or variety) of stickers or emoticons suffice to keep things straight. There is, invariably, at least one ugly sweater party, so now I must shop for a sweater, which is ugly, and will be viewed in public only once. There is the dessert and drinks party. (Delicious but does not help my waistline.) And for the prerequisite LBD (Little Black Dress) party, clearly I will have to go shopping (especially after the dessert and drinks party!).

Vinings Lifestyle | December 2015

Don't forget the white elephant party – nothing white or elephant about it. Oh, and the most colorful holiday socks party. You haven’t been invited to one? It’s coming for you! The potlucks are equally preposterous. There’s usually one with co-workers, with clients, with my local friends group, with my international friends group, with my friends who don’t really fit into any group. I love the idea of good, hearty comfort food, bringing people together, but at some point I usually run out of luck with said pots. This usually means I end up being the favorite patron of the local bakery. ("Krispy Kreme for everyone!") In December, there is also the important decision of where I will spend Christmas and New Year’s. Especially since I have no immediate family in the country, my friends are my family during the holidays. I love that we've created our own traditions together. Yes, the same friends who invite me to those parties where sporting an ugly sweater, reindeer-ear, Santa-beard or some other holiday ornament is mandatory. But I am thrilled to have them as friends, and grateful to be part of their holiday celebrations. It is within this family of friends that I feel secure and wellloved. I adore that we can all come together, in whatever attire the theme of the party demands, to welcome the holidays as family. Happy holidays to you and good luck with your own pot-luck cooking, LBD wearing, ugly sweater shopping and the rest of your holiday madness...err...fun.

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