Dr. Lori Martin,
Rooting For You in 2025
For many of us, this time of year is full of excitement. It presents us with a reset, new horizons and goals to pursue.
But for others, January can be a reminder of failed attempts from years past and the burden of expectation that this year will be different.
We approached this issue of Woodstock City Lifestyle from a mindset of not supplying quick fixes to check boxes in the short term but valuing what is sustainable over the long haul. We wanted to provide inspiration for making lasting, realistic, long-term improvements to your physical, emotional and mental health.
When it comes to anything in life - business, finance, food, home and personal health – it’s not what you do some days that move the needle - it’s what you do MOST days. For better or worse!
For instance, taking a vacation every day would be financially and practically unfeasible, but taking a trip a few times a year is doable. Having a beautiful steak dinner with a few cocktails and creme brulee every night for dinner isn’t best for your health, but doing so once in a while might be fine!
It’s not the sometimes choices we make, it’s the most of the time choices.
So plan the vacation AND work to establish more regular rest in your work week. Join a fitness community or gym AND enjoy that dessert you’ve been wanting to try at Pie Bar. It’s not what you do some days - it’s what you do most days that will lead to a more peaceful, filling and fabulous year.
Here’s to you! We’re rooting for you.
SARA HAGEN,
EDITOR
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Marco Rossi | marco.rossi@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sara Hagen | sara.hagen@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Sue Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
Dianne Kaseta | dianne.kaseta@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Stephanie Benzee | stephanie.benzee@citylifestyle.com
Katya Gore | katya.gore@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Sara Hagen
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 Kathy Nguyen
Hannah Leimkuhler
QUALITY CONTROL
1: Magic of Lights in Woodstock 2: Cherokee Office of Economic Development held it’s annual Movers and Makers event. 3: Maria Valero won the KSU Outstanding Early Career Faculty Award 4: Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Regional Issues meeting 5: Cherokee Angels Senior Care Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 6: PalmSet Pools New Location at 767 Neese Rd. 7: KSU ASC Graduate Competition third place win
business monthly
PalmSet Pools New Location!
PalmSet Pools recently opened their new location at 767 Neese Rd in Woodstock. As a family-owned business, PalmSet Pools has built its reputation on helping families create cherished backyard memories with beautiful, high-quality pools and exceptional service. The new location continues the company’s tradition of blending professional expertise with a welcoming, family-friendly approach. Whether customers are looking to design their dream pool or maintain an existing one, PalmSet Pools is committed to delivering outstanding results.
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A Christmas Carol Returned to Woodstock Arts
The beloved and sentimental holiday musical A Christmas Carol was performed last month at Woodstock Arts Theater.
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Angel Tree at Jéa Salon and Spa
Jéa Salon and Spa organized an Angel Tree for Christmas by taking donations to the Salvation Army to ensure everyone could celebrate the holidays.
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Photography by Jéa Salon
Photography by Woodstock Arts
Photography by PalmSet Pools
ENHANCING Your Natural BEAUTY IN WOODSTOCK
Dr Lori Martin, MD
ARTICLE BY SARA HAGEN AND DR. LORI MARTIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY LONGEVITY WELLNESS AND MED SPA
HOW DID YOUR BACKGROUND AND PASSIONS INFLUENCE YOU TO START LONGEVITY WELLNESS AND MED SPA?
I started practicing 15 years ago in Functional Medicine and Aesthetics, focusing on balancing metabolism and hormones, weight loss, fillers, and botox. With this unique combination of specialties, I could help patients feel better from the inside out and look as good as they feel. Over the years, I continued to expand my knowledge with the latest advancements in anti-aging, leading me to a new field -Regenerative Medicine. Discovering that we, as clinicians, have the ability to stimulate the body to heal and regenerate was a game changer for longevity medicine.
My goal in practice has always been to create a result my patient loves as naturally as possible. It only made sense to combine all of my experience into a longevity practice focusing on what I now call "regenerative aesthetics". It wasn’t until I met my husband and business partner, Daniel, that I had the opportunity to bring this dream to fruition when we started Longevity Wellness and Med Spa five years ago. Until that time, I served as a Medical Director and injector for spas and practices that needed someone parttime, allowing me to fill my schedule with various patients at different locations around Atlanta. Though the extensive travel wasn't always convenient, the exposure to various business owners, products, and patients was an invaluable insight into building our own med spa.
“EVERYONE
Dr. Lori Martin, MD and Dr. Daniel Martin, DC, CEO
Dr. Lori Martin, MD and Dr. Daniel Martin, DC, CEO
WHAT ROLE DOES LONGEVITY PLAY IN THE WOODSTOCK COMMUNITY? HOW HAS THE COMMUNITY RECEIVED LONGEVITY SO FAR?
We actually relocated our med spa from the Marietta/Roswell area to Towne Lake in Woodstock 1.5 years ago. After purchasing a home in Eagle Watch two years ago, we knew we wanted to grow our dream practice in our own community. Though it was a bit of a reset to launch Longevity in a new location, we have been excitedly welcomed by patients looking for a practice just like ours. Woodstock is a vibrant, supportive community, and we love the collaboration among businesses and residents to host social and fundraising events. We often donate Longevity services or gift cards for silent auctions or raffle prizes. We have found this to be a beautiful platform for supporting the community and networking with businesses.
HOW DO YOU TAILOR YOUR SERVICES TO MEET THE DIVERSE NEEDS OF YOUR CLIENTS?
Our initial aesthetic consultation begins with a complimentary 3D facial analysis, which provides a Skin Age based on factors such as fine lines, pore size, and sun damage. This allows us to see what is underneath the surface of the skin and develop a more preventative plan for graceful aging. We have a variety of techniques and procedures to help with any concern so patients have the ability to develop a customized treatment plan that meets their comfort level, time frame, and budget.
WHAT MAKES LONGEVITY STAND OUT AMONG OTHER MED SPAS?
Being physician-owned and operated, Longevity is more than a med spa; it is also a medical wellness center, offering hormone balancing, weight loss, peptide therapy, and a concierge wellness program. It has always been important to me that our products and services are effective, affordable, and as natural as possible. I have seen many trends come and go over
“WE FOCUS ON AGE-APPROPRIATE
TREATMENT
PLAN to help OUR PATIENTS age gracefully, SUBTLY, AND NATURALLY.”
the years, and there is always a new treatment or device to get excited about, but not all deserve a place in our spa. I research and test new products, treatments, and techniques on myself, close friends, and family before I consider adding them to Longevity’s menu. It is essential that I can confidently recommend and perform a treatment with reliable results that a patient will love. As an expert in the field, I consider it my responsibility to provide services that patients can be comfortable with, confident in, and keep coming back for because they love the results so much.
WHAT STEPS DO YOU TAKE TO MAKE SURE PATIENTS FEEL COMFORTABLE AND CONFIDENT?
I have always loved the creative side of aesthetic medicine. Using my talents to transform a patient’s goals into reality is rewarding, taking something they are unhappy with and creating something they love. One of my favorite questions I ask patients during our initial consultation is, “What is one thing you do not love about your appearance now, and what is one thing you used to love but no longer do?”
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Everyone deserves to feel sexy and confident in their skin at any age, and I love that I get to help them do just that. Many of our patients are new to aesthetics and afraid of looking overdone or obviously treated. That is never our approach. We focus on age-appropriate treatment plans to help our patients age gracefully, subtly, and naturally. We spend as much time as needed explaining and educating our patients on treatment options to ensure they are confident in the decision to move forward with a procedure.
HOW DO YOU STAY ON TOP OF THE LATEST TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS?
The world of aesthetics is always evolving, but that is the beautiful thing about it! Over the past decade, I have been fortunate to meet many talented colleagues and mentors through training, conferences, and even social media. The aesthetic medicine community is supportive and eager to share new techniques and tips or troubleshoot problems. I find inspiration through my consulting company, Longevity Medical Consulting and Marketing, where I provide medical directorship, mentorship, training, and consulting for aesthetic providers everywhere. Not only does this drive me to stay on top of the latest developments in aesthetic medicine, but it also challenges me to continue to inspire and support others in the field.
WHAT ARE YOUR LONG-TERM GOALS FOR LONGEVITY?
We have reached one of our primary goals for our second year and are excited to announce that we are expanding our team! We have added a fantastic nurse injector who I have trained and worked with for years, Claire Brevard, and we are so excited to have her join the Longevity team. We have also added a lovely patient concierge team member, Rachel Schwartz. Rachel is currently completing school to become an esthetician and laser practitioner and will expand our treatment menu to offer a full selection of facials and other skin treatments in the coming months. We could not be more grateful to have these ladies join our team.
Since moving to Woodstock, we have primarily focused on the aesthetic side of the practice, so in the coming year, we would like to expand the offerings of our wellness center to help patients optimize their health and longevity. There are a few up-and-coming aesthetic treatments and devices I am researching and cannot yet reveal, but they will enhance our skin tightening services. We would also like to expand our custom candle and skincare line, Longevity Botanicals, in association with Tracey Quarry of Bode + Ev.
Claire Brevard, RN
“BEING PHYSICIAN-OWNED AND OPERATED, longevity IS MORE THAN A MED SPA; IT IS also a MEDICAL WELLNESS CENTER.”
SHOUT OUT SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE TREATMENTS/ SERVICES FOR RELAXATION AND CONFIDENCE-BOOSTING.
My favorite treatment to perform for a confidence boost is lip augmentation. I have spent years perfecting a signature technique that results in a subtly plump lip that is never scary or overfilled. I find many patients are hesitant to get lip filler because of the bad techniques displayed on social media. It is important to have an injector who analyzes the shape of your lips and face to ensure a proportionate enhancement of
your natural beauty. I adore watching my patients’ reactions during the reveal process and how excited, confident, and beautiful they feel with a plumper pout.
Another favorite treatment is our signature Longevity Facial. We combine the Italian collagen-stimulating serum, PRX, with micro needling and LC Cell growth factor serum. By layering these treatments in one session, we trigger collagen stimulation from the deep dermis all the way to the surface, plus growth factors, for a truly rejuvenating treatment with no downtime.
Discover Harmony in Nature
MAKE MEMORIES OF TRANQUILITY, COMFORT, AND SELF-CARE AT THE BLUE RIDGE LUXE LODGE
ARTICLE BY SARA HAGEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CALEB JONES PHOTOGRAPHY
The Blue Ridge Luxe Lodge is nestled in the woods in the quaint and comforting town of Blue Ridge. The lodge offers a peaceful and charming escape from the bustle of city life. The gorgeous A-frame architecture is aesthetically gorgeous and inspires a feeling of connecting with nature while maintaining the comforts of home. The lodge delivers comfort and tranquility with a classic and inviting design. The owners and hosts behind the Blue Ridge Luxe Lodge, Kylee and Jeff Salatino, put their passion and vision together to make a little piece of paradise right here in North Georgia.
Bethany and Daniel Kaylor of Gnarly Home Crafters created an innovative mix of rustic and modern design, which is visually stunning from every angle. The lodge perfectly blends art with function to create a memorable experience for its guests.
The enormous windows and A-frame shape make the home feel in harmony with nature, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. "It feels like being out in nature while having the
luxuries of a cozy bed and a warm shower," said Kylee and Jeff. The design makes the home an ideal escape for city dwellers and nature lovers.
Kylee and Jeff prioritize the guest experience. They stay at the lodge themselves with their kids. Personal touches in the decor and furnishings-such as a fully stocked kitchen and bathroom essentials, hot tub, and a fully furnished screened-in porch- are inspired by Kylee and Jeff's family's experiences staying there. Guests have noticed, with one review saying, "... the place felt more like someone's carefully curated home than just another Airbnb."
Many locals and tourists alike know Blue Ridge is a must-see small town full of mom-and-pop stores and restaurants in some of the country's oldest and most beautiful mountains. Kylee and Jeff recommend Downtown Blue Ridge and the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. The railway goes right through downtown. Eating breakfast or lunch downtown, riding the train, then shopping before
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settling down at the lodge for a homemade dinner, and taking a dip in the hot tub before bed is the perfect way to spend a weekend or holiday.
There are many more cozy activities at the lodge, such as lounging or relaxing after exploring the local town. Kylee and Jeff mention the porch, saying, "One of our favorite things to do as a family is sit under blankets on the porch under the heaters and watch a movie or play some games."
Kylee and Jeff say, "It has been a dream to have a place there where we could escape the hustle of the city." The Blue Ridge Luxe Lodge is a scenic escape, offering tranquility and rest from our busy lives, all within just over an hour's drive from Woodstock.
Blue Ridge Luxe Lodge:
You can book the Blue Ridge Luxe Lodge at Airbnb.com or directly at hometeamvr.com. On Instagram, follow them @theblueridgeluxelodge.
HAIR LOSS IS A GROWING CONCERN
Your guide to myths, treatments, and innovations for hair loss with Woodstock Plastic Surgery
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY WOODSTOCK PLASTIC SURGERY
Hair loss is a concern for both men and women. While genetics remain a significant factor, lifestyle and societal shifts have also contributed to the increasing prevalence of hair loss. In plastic surgery, addressing hair restoration has become a critical component of wellness and self-confidence. Innovative treatments like Alma TED and SmartGraft are leading the way, offering hope to those experiencing thinning hair or baldness.
Dr. Steven Bailey of Woodstock Plastic Surgery is a trusted local specialist who provides cutting-edge solutions for hair loss, helping patients regain their confidence and achieve lasting results.
THE SURGE IN HAIR LOSS TRENDS
The rise in hair loss has been attributed to several factors:
1. Pandemic-Related Stress
The COVID-19 pandemic brought a wave of emotional and physical stress, leading to a condition called telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters a resting phase and falls out.
2. Postpartum Hair Loss
As more women openly share their postpartum journeys on social media, awareness of post-pregnancy hair loss has grown. Hormonal changes after childbirth often lead to temporary but distressing hair thinning.
3. GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications, often used for weight loss, can contribute to hair loss due to the rapid weight reduction they cause, which may stress the body and disrupt the hair growth cycle (telogen effluvium). Dietary changes associated with these treatments can lead to nutrient deficiencies, further affecting hair health.
4. Hormonal Changes in Men and Women
Androgenic alopecia, or pattern hair loss, is a leading cause, but hormonal imbalances due to conditions like PCOS and sensitivity to DHT (dihydrotestosterone) are also contributors.
ADVANCED HAIR RESTORATION OPTIONS
For individuals experiencing hair loss, the impact goes beyond physical appearance. Hair is linked to identity, youth, and vitality. Hair restoration treatments do more than restore hair—they restore confidence. Individuals who address their hair concerns report feeling rejuvenated, attractive, and ready to face challenges with renewed vigor.
In the world of plastic surgery, cutting-edge technology has revolutionized hair restoration:
ALMA TED (TRANSEPIDERMAL DELIVERY)
• How It Works: This non-invasive ultrasound-based treatment delivers active growth factors and nutrients directly to the scalp.
“THANKS
TO ADVANCEMENTS IN PLASTIC SURGERY AND NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS, ADDRESSING HAIR LOSS IS MORE ACCESSIBLE THAN EVER.”
• Benefits: Painless, quick, and effective for early-stage hair loss. No downtime is required, making it ideal for busy individuals.
SMARTGRAFT HAIR TRANSPLANT
• How It Works: A minimally invasive Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) procedure that harvests healthy hair follicles and implants them in thinning or balding areas.
• Benefits: Natural results with minimal scarring, faster recovery, and customizable to each patient’s needs.
DEBUNKING MYTHS ABOUT HAIR LOSS
With information circulating about hair loss, it’s easy to fall prey to misconceptions.
Myth #1: Hair loss is only hereditary.
Reality: While genetics play a role, factors like stress, diet, and medical conditions also contribute.
Myth #2: Only older individuals experience hair loss.
Reality: Hair loss can begin as early as the teenage years, often due to genetics, stress, or lifestyle.
Myth #3: Hair transplants look unnatural
Reality: Advanced techniques like SmartGraft ensure natural-looking results, with careful attention to hairline design and follicle placement.
Myth #4: Only men experience hair loss.
Reality: Women make up nearly 40% of those affected by hair loss, highlighting the need for awareness and targeted treatments.
Myth #5: Over-the-counter products are enough.
Reality: While some products may help, professional treatments like PRP, Alma TED and SmartGraft offer targeted solutions with proven results.
IMPACT OF CELEBRITY TRENDS
Celebrities have played a major role in normalizing hair restoration treatments. Public figures like Elon Musk, John Travolta, and even influencers on TikTok openly discuss their hair restoration journeys. These high-profile endorsements have reduced stigma, encouraging individuals to seek professional help.
Social media has fostered a heightened awareness of appearance, pushing both men and women to address thinning hair proactively. Treatments like Alma TED appeal to those looking for subtle, non-invasive
solutions, while SmartGraft attracts those seeking dramatic, lasting changes.
WHO IS THE BEST CANDIDATE FOR HAIR LOSS TREATMENT?
The ideal candidate for hair loss treatment varies based on the cause and extent of the problem.
• Individuals with Early-Stage Hair Loss: Alma TED is perfect for those noticing thinning or mild shedding.
• Patients with Androgenic Alopecia: Aside from medications, SmartGraft works well for pattern baldness in men and women.
• Individuals Seeking Wellness Transformation: Hair restoration often complements other lifestyle improvements.
• Those Experiencing Stress-Related Hair Loss: Early intervention can prevent further damage.
• Patients Looking for Confidence Boosts: Anyone feeling selfconscious about their hair loss can benefit from treatment. CONTINUED >
Q&A WITH STEVEN BAILEY, MD ON HAIR LOSS TREATMENTS
Q: Are there trends that have increased hair loss?
A: Absolutely. Stress from the pandemic, over-styling with heat tools, and poor nutrition are major contributors. Hormonal imbalances from lifestyle changes and medical conditions also play a role.
Q: What are the most effective treatments for hair loss?
A: It depends on the cause. For androgenic alopecia, medications/supplements and hair transplants are incredibly effective. Alma TED works well for thinning hair when used in conjunction with medications that can slow progression.
Q: What are the risks of delaying treatment?
A: The longer hair loss is ignored, the harder it is to restore. Once follicles are inactive, surgical intervention may be the only option. Early action preserves existing hair and improves outcomes.
Q: How do patients respond to hair restoration treatments?
A: The psychological impact is profound. Restoring hair restores confidence. Patients frequently express feeling younger, more vibrant, and ready to engage in life more fully.
Hair loss is no longer a silent struggle. Thanks to advancements in treatments, addressing hair loss is more accessible than ever. As conversations around this issue grow, fueled by celebrity influence and societal shifts, more individuals are taking control of their wellness journeys.
Connect with Dr. Bailey and Woodstock Plastic Surgery at woodstockplasticsurgery.com and on Instagram @woodstockplasticsurgery.
Steven Bailey, MD
Dr.
KOOB S T O TAKEYOU AWAY
I ASKED MY EXPAT AND TRAVEL-SAVVY FRIENDS TO RECOMMEND BOOKS TO TAKE ME FAR AWAY. HERE YOU GO!
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
Blue Latitudes
BY TONY HORWITZ
Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before. The Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist travels to various parts of the world, following in the footsteps of explorer James Cook.
The Island of Missing Trees
BY ELIF SHAFAIT
It is 1974 on the island of Cyprus. Two teenagers, from opposite sides of a divided land, meet at a tavern in the city they both call home. The tavern is the only place that Kostas, who is Greek and Christian, and Defne, who is Turkish and Muslim, can meet, in secret, hidden beneath the blackened beams from which hang garlands of garlic, chili peppers and wild herbs. This is where one can find the best food in town, the best music, the best wine. But there is something else to the place: it makes one forget, even if for just a few hours, the world outside and its immoderate sorrows.
The Corfu Trilogy
BY GERALD DURRELL
Three classic tales of childhood on an island paradise - My Family and Other Animals, Birds, Beasts and Relatives and The
Garden of the Gods by Gerald Durrell - are available in a single edition for the first time in The Corfu Trilogy
Just before the Second World War the Durrell family decamped to the glorious, sun-soaked island of Corfu, where the youngest of the four children, ten-year-old Gerald, discovered his passion for animals: toads and tortoises, bats and butterflies, scorpions and octopuses. Through glorious silver-green olive groves and across brilliant-white beaches Gerry pursued his obsession . . . causing hilarity and mayhem in his ever-tolerant family.
Cutting for Stone
BY ABRAHAM VERGHESE
Cutting for Stone is a novel written by Ethiopian-born, Indian-American medical doctor and author Abraham Verghese. It is a saga of twin brothers, orphaned by their mother’s death at their births and forsaken by their father.
The Museum of Innocence
BY ORHAN PAMUK
The author is a Nobel-laureate Turkish novelist. The book, set in Istanbul between 1975 and 1984, is an account of the love story between the wealthy businessman Kemal and a poorer distant relative of his, Füsun.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JANUARY 4TH
Sonic Symphony
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center | 8:00 PM
Sonic Symphony is an immersive live experience celebrating more than three decades of music from SEGA’s iconic mascot. From the classic 8-bit and 16-bit tunes to rock bands and EDM, this concert will take you on a musical journey through the colorful world of Sonic the Hedgehog. Relive your favorite Sonic moments, brought to life by a full symphony orchestra.
JANUARY 10TH
Lisa Jewell at FoxTale Bookshoppe
FoxTale Bookshoppe | 6:30 PM
Acclaimed author Lisa Jewell will be at FoxTale Book Shoppe on Friday, January 10. She will be celebrating the paperback release of her New York Times Bestseller, NONE OF THIS IS TRUE. Now with a new BONUS chapter! Your book purchase is your ticket to this event.
JANUARY 12TH-26TH
Teen Spotlight: Twelfth Night The Musical
Woodstock Arts Theatre at 8534 Main St.
This musical adaptation of TWELFTH NIGHT uses the original text from Shakespeare’s play with brand new music, and modern lyrics that run the length of contemporary musical theatre – from folk ballad to power ballad – that keep the stakes feeling high and the story feeling brand new! Go to woodstockarts.org/events/twelfth for tickets
JANUARY 13TH
ArtsKSU Presents: Robert Koenig, Piano
Bailey Performing Arts Center | 7:30 PM
Pianist Robert Koenig has performed throughout the world to great acclaim as a collaborative pianist and chamber musician. His partnerships with many of today’s leading classical artists have seen him grace the world’s most important stages including New York’s Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, Washington’s Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, San Francisco’s Herbst Theater, Hong Kong’s City Hall, London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall, and many more.
JANUARY 25TH
Doo-Wah
Riders at The Falany
The Falany Performing Arts Center | 3:00 PM
There is no one else like the Doo-Wah Riders. For 40 years they have been riding their own patch of the musical range throughout the west. They possess the rare combination of many years of experience and youthful energy, fired by a love for what they do. They define their sound as “high energy country with a Cajun twist.” Their tight musicianship and powerful arrangements of classic, contemporary, and original songs have made them favorites everywhere they go.
