Alpharetta
Free to a Good Home A Local Life Publication
+Milton
l i v e • w o r k • s h o p • e a t • p l a y • g i v e • p r a y
Winter 2017-2018 Vol.. 3, Issue 4
l o c a l l y
CREATING
Beautiful Spaces
Lisa Carlquist, President ARTISAN CUSTOM CLOSETS
Local Manufacturer can turn any closet into a castle...
More Than Curry: Indian Food Pleases Events Calendar Bridal Hair and Make-Up Tis’ the Season for Kids
Engaged?
#newlook
She Said, “Yes.” Now What? Cover Image by Chris Smith
Display until Feb 28, 2018 locallifepublishing.com
1
another planet fitness comes to roswell ONLY $10 A MONTH! check us out
1
treat yourself
guest pass
limit one per customer. with this coupon only. must be 18 years or older. participating locations only. restrictions may apply.
Expires 12/31/17
1
FREE
FREE
hydro/chair massage pass
limit one per customer. with this coupon only. must be 18 years or older. participating locations only. restrictions may apply.
Expires 12/31/17
OPENING FALL 20I7 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 645-2345
10791 Alpharetta Highway Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 993-4817
13071 Highway 9 Milton, GA 30004 (770) 750-0024
hours of operation: 12am Monday thru 9pm Friday Saturday & Sunday 7am - 7pm
planetfitness.com *Must be 18 years old, or 13 with parent/guardian. Offer available at participation locations only. Planet Fitness locations are independently owned and operated. Š 2017 PFIP, LLC
Hello!
T
The BEST thing about owning a business - especially a small, local business - is the opportunity to change things on a dime, as soon as we sense a better way. No big corporate titanic to turn around. That’s what we’ve done with this Winter 2017-18 issue of Alpha-Milton Magazine; and we hope you like it! Like everything else in the world today, we went even smaller in size. We upgraded our paper stock. We have sprinkled our content with a new, more visually enthusiastic design. Nothing too crazy, just a little sunshine for our fans. Our designer has been instructed to “have fun with the design.” We’ve incorporated MORE LINKS, which will greatly enhance the reading experience for our digital / online readers. Every ad and article is “live.” Our writers will continue to have excellent grammar but have been asked to include a more modern vernacular into their pieces. #finally. The cities of Alpharetta and Milton are made up of a lot of young families; but also many young, new professionals have moved here for the terrific jobs, innovation, greenspace mixed with city living and excellent property values. We try to speak to all of you. Let us know the types of stories you’d like to see in our Spring 2018 issue, which publishes March 1st. Live locally. Warm Regards,
Regina
4
Alpha Milton Magazine is published by Local Life Publishing, LLC PO BOX 1153, Roswell GA 30077 alphamilton@locallifepublishing.com Founder/Publisher Regina Barkley President Chris Smith Associate Publishers Lisa Pepper Dalton Pepper Community Editor Craig Briscoe Associate Editor Danielle Bartling Production & Design Claire Murphy Administrative Assistant Sarah Mabal Contributing Photographers Ashley Blencoe, Chris Smith Contributing Writers Danielle Bartling, Claire Murphy, Delisa Barkley, Ilana Mermelstein, Tristyn Angel Own a local business? Want to partner with Alpha Milton Magazine? Learn how we can help you position your brand to more effectively reach the local market: Contact: alphamilton@locallifepublishing.com Alpha Milton Magazine is published quarterly by LLP. The opinions expressed by writers and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers. We will make mistakes, so don’t be too harsh when we do. We’re human just like you. Sharing articles on social media from our digital publication is encouraged. Do you LIKE us? Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/alphamiltonmagazine facebook.com/locallifepublishing
winter 2017-2018
Edgemont on Main Street Now Selling | Attached homes from the mid $400s A collection of only 18 townhomes provide a limited opportunity to take advantage of a work/play/live community located in Milton, Ga., one of the north Atlanta area’s most desirable cities, surrounded by amenities you’d expect around the South’s most sophisticated metropolis. •
Surrounded by parks, leading retailers, abundant and varied dining destinations, and world-class recreation
•
Commuter’s paradise with convenient access to GA 400, the primary corridor to downtown Atlanta, less than 30 miles away
•
Eligible students will have access to attend schools all located within four miles of the community
CalAtlanticHomes.com For more information, please contact Mary Ray at 770-842-4983. In the Edgemont on Main Street Community of CalAtlantic Homes, prices, plans, elevations and specifications are subject to change without notice. Seller does not represent/guarantee that the project will be serviced by any particular public school/school district or, once serviced by a particular school/school district, that the same school/school district will service the project for any particular period of time. Eligibility requirements (including geographical) may change over time. You should independently confirm which schools/districts serve the project and learn more information about the school district’s boundary change process prior to executing a purchase contract. Depictions of homes or other features are artist conceptions. Photographs and/or renderings are for illustrative purposes only. Hardscape, landscape, and other items shown may be decorative suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. See Sales Counselor for details on available promotions, restrictions and offer limitations. This is not an offer or the solicitation of an offer for the purchase of a new home. This information is not directed to residents of any state that requires registration or permit issuance prior to the publication of such information. CAATL458 CAATL458
locallifepublishing.com
5
gratitude!
Please support the incredible local businesses who make Alpha-Milton Magazine possible each issue.
ADVERTISING INDEX Alpharetta Convention Visitors Bureau, awesomealpharetta, Back Cover Aqua Plumbing, aquaplumbingga.com, p17 Artisan Custom Closets, artisancustomclosets.com, p10 Blencoe & Co. Photographic Arts, p13 blencoeandco.com CalAtlantic Homes, calatlantichomes.com, p5 Crabapple Beds & Bones, bedsandbones.net, p15 Crooked Creek Golf Club, thecrookedcreekclub.com, p20
Cover Story, p10 Lisa Carlquist, President, Artisan Custom Closets.
Detailed Capital, detailedcapital.com, p30 District Salon & Events, thedistrictsalon.com, p27 Holiday Inn Express Alpharetta, hiex.com/alpharetta, p17 Image Maids, imagemaids.com, p21 Janet Murphy Realtor janetmurphyrealestate.com, p8
inside
Publisher’s Letter, p4 Advertiser Index, p6 More Than Curry, p9 Artisan Custom Closets, p10
La Vida Massage -Alpharetta lavidamassagealpharettaga.com, p7
Season for the Children, p14
Maid Right, roswell.maidright.com, p17
Winter’s Short Window, p16
Milton Country Club, miltoncountryclub.com, p20 The Orbit Group, theorbitgroup.com, p30 Planet Fitness, Inside Front Cover planetfitness.com Raisin’s Ranch, raisinsranch.com, p23 Tokyo Bay Buffet, tokyobaybuffet.com, p3 Tristar Stainless Art, tristarstainlessart.net, p13 Veronica Stone Salon, Inside Back Cover veronicastonesalon.com
Total Package: The District, p18 Where to Golf, p21 Glory of New York, p22 Coming in 2018, p24 Do You Know Your Heart? p24 Yes, I do! p26 Calendar of Events, p28 The Kissing Season, p30
WELLSTAR North Fulton Hospital, wellstar.org, p25 winter 2017-2018
For all you do, a gift for you
RECEIVE
$50
Call or Book Online! LaVida Massage Alpharetta LaVidaMassageAlpharettaGA.com | 770.740.0654 East Cobb LaVidaMassageMariettaGA.com | 770.973.6385 Johns Creek LaVidaMassageJohnsCreekGA.com | 678.624.9091 locallifepublishing.com
IN BONUS CARDS with a purchase of $150 in gift cards* *Purchase by December 31, 2017 Open 7 Days a Week Extended Hours GA Licensed Therapists
LIVE
U. YO R O OU. T FFT FOR Y F I I A GA G
A LIVE ARE d 5” xt an75” t tex 1.8 ea. t and 1.87 3.1an25” rt Live Ar ortant tex a. 5” x impo e thep all imp the Live Are all sidKee y inside Keep ery in imager AREA
3.12
imag
5” 3.37 YK CM pi nt) 5” : 2.37 E (Fron, 300d5”PL Size e: M x AT k prep2.1aratio25” 62 Trim Mod : 0 TE or on -8 3. or x Col lutiCR 43 artw75” 3.3 : -92 ing so ze Re d Si Size: regardent:CMYK651-702 ns : rtm r- i pa Blee Trim quMo m -o dp estiode .co300 t de 75” y lor ce ar Co r an ve t ou on: sour 3.625” x 2.3 ac uti sticre u haRe ntsol ion, pla e: If yo e co as preparat ent@Siz ple Bletmed artwork rding epar artd
Franchise opportunities available. Call 678.641.9802
$$2255
nt) (Fro TE PLA x 2.125”
EM
0T
CR-8
rega stions ent: 9243 any que art departm 651-702have our om -orIf you contact source.c please plasticre rtment@ artdepa
7
Merry Christmas from
30A
If you or your clients are interested in Florida beach property, Janet Murphy is the 30A Expert. ALYS BEACH
SEACREST BEACH
ROSEMARY BEACH
INLET BEACH
MAIN 404.731.0668 | OFFICE 850.213.5000 | JANETMURPHYBEACHREALTOR@GMAIL.COM JANETMURPHYREALESTATE.COM
This advertisement is not an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy, to residents of any state or province in which registration and other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. This advertisement is not intended to solicit properties currently listed by other real estate brokerages. All advertised square footages should be verified by the buyer.. Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits of value, if any, of these properties.
8
winter 2017-2018
“Indian cuisine uses the whole palette of flavors—spicy, sour, sweet, and hot all at the same time—making it something that wants to jump off the plate,” says Floyd Cardoz, the author of One Spice, Two Spice ($36, amazon.com).
Your palate is calling! Alpharetta and Milton are boom towns for Indian cuisine. We have 12 options just right around the next corner.
C
BY CLAIRE MURPHY
CONTRARY TO COMMON BELIEF, not all Indian dishes are curries. However, “curry” has become a catch-all name for any spice-based meat or vegetable dish with a sauce. Curries can be watery, dry, red, green, hot, or really, really hot—it’s completely up to the chef in charge. In fact, there are basically 20 to 30 spices used in many Indian dishes—cumin, coriander, turmeric, and ginger, to name a few—and there are an infinite number of ways of using them. Every spice has a reason for being there. They have health benefits and make the food more exciting and flavorful, using locally ingredients whenever possible.
Affairs Indian Fusion
Bombay Flames
Persis Biryani
Amma Kitchen
Godavari Atlanta
Sanjha Chulha
Aunty’s Kitchen
Madras Chettinaad
Swagat Indian
Bawarchi Biryani
Peppers Indian Cuisine
Taste of India
spiceaffairatlanta.com 4120 Old Milton Pkwy ammakitchen.net 390 Cumming Street auntyskitchenus.com 735 N Main St barwarchialpharetta.com 2500 N Point Ct locallifepublishing.com
bombayflames.com 3050 Mansell Rd godavarius.com 865 North Main St madraschettinaad.com 4305 State Bridge Rd thepeppersrestaurant.com 13020 Morris Rd
persisindiangrill.com 631 North Main St sanjhachulha.us 5815 Windward Pkwy swagatus.com 5530 Windward Pkwy tasteofindia.com 3070 Windward Pkwy
9
Images by Chris Smith
Creating More t
“Because we are a manufacturer, we are able to design, manufacture and install any size or shape space. Our parts are truly custom, so any project is possible.� LISA CARLQUIST, President
10
winter 2017-2018
COVER STORY
than Closets W By Delisa Barkley
WHAT IMPRESSED US THE MOST about Artisan Custom Closets (artisancustomclosets.com) is how much pride they have in ensuring their customers receive the best available product and design. And, we were equally awed by their impeccable commitment to detail and client service. The company’s president, Lisa Carlquist, had been working with closets for 15 years when a larger corporation bought out the mom and pop operation in which she was employed. Unwilling to succumb to big business and its practices, Lisa set out to create her own model of what custom storage design should look like in 2008. “That was the worst year to start a business in this industry,” Carlquist says. After wrestling with the challenges that entrepreneurship presented during a down economy, the company began to officially take off in 2010. To formulate a well-rounded business, however, Lisa knew that she would need to enlist the help of a team with varying skillsets. She chose people she knew from the industry as well as other prominent industry personnel to help build her brand. She chose the “best of the best for the Artisan brand.” And, as a result, Artisan Custom Closets operates with many employees having more than 12 years of experience in their fields. Lisa’s team has broken up the closet design process into four steps, the first of which being an in-home design consultation. Each customer is paired with a design consultant to meet in their own home to discuss the use and contents of the space. “Every space is different so we like to measure and take inventory of what the homeowners have, Lisa noted.” From there, a drawing is made with Artisan Custom Closets’ Computer-Aided Design (CAD) system. Customers are then able to review the designs and alter details such as door style and color, hardware and closet accessories. Most customers choose to visit Artisan’s local showroom and manufacturing facility to make their final selections. The showroom also offers displays of garages, offices, pantries, laundry rooms, craft rooms and murphy beds to round out the storage experience. Once final selections are made, all materials and parts (continued, p12)
11
COVER STORY
stand out from other homes on the market. “We work with builders who don’t have a buyer yet by giving their homes a “wow” factor (a new custom closet). Lisa says, “Custom closets increase the value of a home and add a nice touch.” About 35 to 40 percent of our business comes from new construction.” Lisa, since moving from Powell, Tennessee, to take advantage of the opportunities Atlanta provides, has found nuances that make building closets in this city different; and more importantly, she has found ways to work with or around these while individualizing her company in the process. “Atlanta architecture often dictates that the closet is built over the garage which creates slopes and angles that can be difficult to work with. Because we are a manufacturer, we are able to design, manufacture and install any size or shape space. Our parts are truly custom, so any project is possible.”
needed for the job are ordered and, within 3 business days, the customer is contacted to schedule an exact installation date. Most installtions can be completed in one day however larger jobs may take additional time. Artisan Custom Closets manufactures each closet in its 29,000 square foot showroom/warehouse in Marietta. Their Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) routers allow each closet or storage space to be cut individually based on the completed CAD designs. This process is extremely efficient and allows for little error.
Being a manufacturer also positively impacts the timeliness of Artisan’s service. “Since we are not a franchise and we manufacture all of our pieces locally, we can replace parts within the day if there are any issues,” she explains. Every detail about a custom closet is given careful consideration throughout each step. The work is completed, delivered and installed as promptly as possible. And because not every job can be completed perfectly 100 percent of the time, Lisa and her team have put answers and resolutions almost directly into their customers’ hands.
Artisan’s installers are all company employees and have been thoroughly screened and background checked. Their installation crews have an average of 10 years of experience and are trained to leave homes cleaner than when they arrived! Artisan Custom Closets also provides special services for builders to make their homes
12
“Everyone talks about customer service, but you rarely get it. Not that we don’t make mistakes; but at the end of the day, it’s really about handling something that went wrong in the right way.”
Lisa Carlquist, President winter 2017-2018
MAKES A PERFECT GIFT!
ORIGINAL
UNIQUE • QUALITY Powder coated Stainless Steel
Sculpture Wall Art Feel free to call us today:
(770) 325-1777 Or Order Online:
w w w.Tr i s t a r S t a i n l e s s A r t . N e t locallifepublishing.com
13
CHILDREN
Images by Ashley Blencoe Blencoe & Co. Photographic Arts blencoeandco.com
Tis’ the Season
for the
By Ilana Mermelstein
A
IN THE SUMMER MONTHS, children can usually be easily occupied going to the pool, chasing the ice cream truck or digging in the sandbox. Day camps galore fill what’s left of the summer days, leaving kids busy and parents satisfied. Summer is easy. Winter, #notsomuch. With the lack of snow, there isn’t much to do outside besides the brief infatuation with frozen breath. But fret not, activities that keep kids busy during the holidays are right under our red noses. North Point Mall (northpointmall.com/en/ events) invites kids to discover “Santa’s Toy Factory” each weekend from now through December 24. The center of the mall boasts a life-sized version of Santa’s Toy Factory, where children can tour, explore, test new toys, and even digitally design their own. The
14
CHILDREN experience inside the factory is followed by a photo session with none other than Santa Claus himself! While the photo packages start at $39.99, the toy factory exploration is entirely free, making it the perfect weekend activity for the kids. On December 2, Santa will be making another appearance at the Alpharetta Welcome Center (awesomealpharetta.com). The facility will be offering free pictures with Santa, along with free refreshments for all to enjoy. The event will run from 10AM to Noon, so don’t miss out on brightening the smiles of the children. After taking free pictures with Santa, walk downtown to the annual City of Alpharetta Tree Lighting (cityofalpharetta.ga.us). Children will be able to enjoy the “Snow Playground” and roasted marshmallows around a fire on winter 2017-2018
CHILDREN Old Roswell Street at 4PM. Enjoy free crafts, face-painting, balloon twisting, and much more. This fun event will begin at 6:15PM, capping off the perfect, spirited family day.
performances for the whole family to enjoy! Join jolly Old Saint Nick in his cozy cottage at Avalon (experienceavalon.com) for a dose of Christmas magic this holiday season! Santa will be making his way from the North Pole starting November 20th through December 24th. No appointments are left, but Santa will still accept walk-ups!
From December 1 to December 3, Alpharetta’s Metropolitan Ballet Theater (metropolitanballet.org) will present The Nutcracker at Blessed Trinity Catholic High School. Matinees will be preceded by “Sugarplum Story-time,” in which children enjoy refreshments, spending time with the cast and listening to the story of this annual production we have all come to know and love. Spots for Sugarplum Story-time, as well as tickets to The Nutcracker can be Crab & Apple Children’s Boutique has a great reserved at metropoliselection of seasonal clothes for kids. tanballet.org. On Dec. 5, the fun “Christmas in Crabapple” (crabapplecommunityassociation.org) will be held and centered at the Broadwell Pavilion at 12615 Broadwell Rd in the heart of Milton from 2 PM to 5 PM- (cityofmiltonga.us). The event will include photos with Santa, caroling, s’mores, hot cocoa, crafts, and community YO U R
P E T ’ S
“ H O M E
Remember, there will be lots of selfies and family photos taken in the month of December, so make sure to outfit little ones in just the right holiday attire. Visit the Crab & Apple Children’s Boutique in Milton. To check out their great selection of seasonal pieces for the kids. (thecrabandtheapple.com)
Alpharetta and Milton have the holidays covered when it comes to #activitiesforkids, so don’t miss out on these opportunities to make the holiday season memorable! IL
AWAY
F R O M
H O M E ! ”
Serving North Fulton since 1998
• 2.5 ACRES NATURE WALKING TRAILS
• AIR PURIFICATION SYSTEM
• INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP PLAYTIMES • STATE-OF-THE-ART KENNELS
• PRIVATE ROOMS FOR CATS • OWNERS ON SITE
• INDOOR/OUTDOOR PLAY AREAS
• IN THE HEART OF MILTON
640 Dorris Road, Milton GA 30004 • (770) 754-1700 • bedsandbones.net
locallifepublishing.com
15
Winter’s Window In Alpharetta and Milton, we only have 2 or 3 months of real wintery weather.
By Tristyn Angel
D
DOWN HERE in the deep south, winter doesn’t put us into too much of a chokehold. Instead, we are usually struck with mild temperatures and only couple of #snowdays. For many of us, better weather is one of the reasons we love to live here. But this short window of winter can be a bit of a downer for ski buffs and ice fisherman. We can all take heart. There are still plenty of icy things to do in Alpharetta and Milton. Avalon (experienceavalon.com) is opening up their Rockefeller Center-inspired ice rink again this year. Avalon on Ice will be open through mid-January, which gives plenty of time to get comfortable in skates. An outdoor arena, this unique attraction will make even the grinches in us smile. After a session, guests can warm up with a hot Italian Nutella, macchiato or latte from Caffe Antico (experienceavalon.com). Prefer indoors? The Cooler (coolerathletics. com), which is located at 10800 Davis Drive will sufficiently satisfy. This affordable and family-centered ice skating rink offers general admission to the public, as well as ice skating lessons for those more serious about learning
16
the tricks. The Cooler schedules in-house hockey camps, and this venue is perfectly situated to host birthday parties and special events. The in-house hockey league, Atlanta Fire, provides excitement for spectators. They list their calendar online. Main Event (mainevent.com) located next door at 10700 Davis Drive is another fun place to hang when it’s cold outside. Guests can enjoy bowling, laser tag, billiards, arcade games and a little bit of everything. Main Event is offering their Winter FunPass which includes multiple unlimited activities for one seasonal price. And finally, if it’s too cold to hit the “real” fairways, then there’s TopGolf (topgolf.com/ us/alpharetta), an unbeatable golfing, dining and entertainment complex which provides year-round swinging for adults and kids off of Westwind Parkway. So when the weather turns chilly, partake of these seasonally favorite activities in the South’s winter wonderland. With so much to do, winter’s brief window may just become a favorite season even for beach bums. winter 2017-2018
AVALON ON ICE
Public ice Skating, $14-18
Mon-Friday 3pm -10pm Friday 3:30-5:30, 8:15-10:15 Saturday 10pm - 10pm Sunday Noon to 7pm experienceavalon.com/events
THE COOLER
public ice skating, $8-9
Mon-Thurs 11am-12:45pm and 3:15-5:15pm Friday 3:30-5:30pm, 8:15-10:15pm Saturday 1-3pm, 3-5pm, 8-10pm Sunday 2-5pm coolerathletics.com
Life is Short. Clean Less.®
Same cleaner each visit Professional, licensed and insured Thorough, deep cleaning and disinfecting Satisfation Guaranteed
Save $75 That’s $25 off your first three cleanings
770-552-6243 roswell.maidright.com
Offer has no separate cash value and is based on three consecutive cleanings. Credits stated apply to each cleaning. Offer does not apply to prior purchases.
financing available
aquaplumbingga.com Personalized Solutions • Fair & Competitive Prices Fast Response Times • Transparency from Start to Finish
Tired of recurring plumbing problems? Work with Alpharetta’s trusted team of plumbing repair and installation experts. Call us today at (678) 616-2782 to request your next appointment and receive a free quote. We work around your schedule!
Your refreshed Holiday Inn Express is here. We’ve added signature showers and curved rods, choice of pillows, crisp, fresh, white linens and more. Of course, some things haven’t changed: Free high-speed internet access • Free hot breakfast • Fitness Center•Business center • IHG Rewards Club • Swimming Pool Everything at Holiday Inn Express is designed so you can relax. All you really need on the road is a place to be yourself. That’s what Holiday Inn Express was built for.
Holiday Inn Express Alpharetta 12505 Innovation Way, Alpharetta GA 30004 • 678.339.0505 www.hiex.com/alpharetta 2010 InterContinental Hotel Group. All rights reserved. Most hotels are independently owned and/or operated. Stay You is a registered trademark of Six Continents Hotels, Inc.
alocallifepublishing.com quaplumbingga.com
STAY YOU™.
17
LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
THE
TOTAL PACKAGE hair, make-up, special events
The District Salon & Events in the Heart of Alpharetta
E
By Danielle Bartling
EVERY SEASON IS WEDDING season in the South, so add distinction to your big day with Alpharetta’s premier house of beauty: The District Salon & Events. Before saying “I do,” gather your bridal party to celebrate with the royal treatment: professional makeup and hair services, gourmet food and alcohol packages, personalized music playlists as well as full access to their spacious boutique and luxury dressing rooms. Their team of stylists is made up of highly specialized professionals who are ready and willing to construct your ideal hair and makeup look. They strive to tastefully enhance one’s natural beauty, appropriate for the wedding photo album you’ll be cherishing for years to come. The District is situated in downtown Alpharetta,
18
located conveniently near the Historic Square… a setting perfect for any photoshoot during any season. The District’s formal styling and makeup services will never disappoint. Their signature techniques add a certain je ne sais quoi to the final product, something you won’t find at other salons; it’s impossible to define but you know it when you feel it. The staff and stylists put an unparalleled amount of TLC into the needs and wants of their guests. Throw your bridal party into the mix, and winter 2017-2018
Photos by Laura Miles thereasonilove.com
LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
it will be the most fabulous, funfilled [makeover] gathering you’ll ever have... and not to mention delicious! Their food packages range from Mexican to Southern cuisine, catered by Ceviche Taqueria (cevichetaqueria.com) and Roux on Canton (rouxoncanton.com), respectively. “Fabulous Fiesta” includes a taco bar, fajita bar, chips, dips, salsa and guacamole. The “Simply Southern” option includes delicatessen sandwiches, salads, cheese and fruit trays. Their alcohol packages vary from white and red wine to champagne, margarita, bourbon or Bloody Mary bars. And of course, coffee is provided to further fuel the fun. locallifepublishing.com
Customize your party’s refreshment menu however you please; pricing may vary. Other services include custom spray tans, which will illuminate your complexion for the photos and ceremony (or any occasion). Waxing and sugaring services are available to smoothen your brows, lips or full face. Lash extensions are also offered, so you won’t need to fuss with falsies or risk a rogue lash as you march down the aisle! All occasions -- you name it -- at The District Salon & Events are guaranteed to be memorable ones, so keep this in mind for your wedding, prom, girl’s night out, birthday party, etc. You could even treat yourself to making an ordinary day special by popping in to enjoy hair foiling, root touch-ups, haircuts (for all ages and genders), keratin treatments, blowouts, everyday makeovers and more. The District Salon & Events, 28 N. Main St thedistrictsalon.com • info@thedistrictsalon.com
19
CROOKED CREEK CLUB Championship GOLF course, outstanding service unprecedented value AND AFFORDABLE MEMBERSHIP Our members consider the Creek one of the finest, friendliest, and most affordable private clubs in the area. So, please come meet our staff, play our course, sample our food and be ready to come to the same conclusion that this is where you want to be a member! For more details on membership or arrange a tour of the facilities contact Philip Herterick , Membership Sales Director, Crooked Creek Club 770.475.2300 ext 119
www.the crookedcreekclub.com
FORE! Find the Links in Alpharetta and Milton GOLF CLUB OF GEORGIA
1 Golf Club Drive golfclubofgeorgia.com Two Arthur Hills-designed courses offering the golfer enormous architectural, aesthetic and strategic variety. In 1999, Golf Digest honored Lakeside’s par-5, 607 yard 11th hole as one of “America’s Best 99 Golf Holes.”
Crooked Creek Golf Club
3430 Hwy. 9 N. thecrookedcreekclub.com Crooked Creek’s Course offers a par 72 Michael Riley design that plays nearly 7000 yards from the back tee. Featuring undulating greens, demanding tee shots, and challenging approach shots, it is regarded by many to be the premier Championship golf course in Greater Atlanta.
TROPHY CLUB OF ATLANTA
15135 Hopewell Road americangolf.com/trophyclub-atlanta Carved out of heavily wooded terrain in order to create a challenging course, and nominated as Golf Digest’s “Best New
Public Course” when it opened in 1992, TCA was designed by DJ DeVictor and ABC-TV Golf Analyst Steve Melnyk.
MILTON COUNTRY CLUB
1785 Dinsmore Road miltoncountryclub.com Although the par 70 Willard Byrd design tips out at 6100 yards, this course will test the patience of any golfer. It boasts narrow tee shots and pure rolling stamp sized greens.
ECHELON GOLF CLUB
501 Founders Drive echelonliving.com A broad-shouldered beautiful and formidable test designed by famed golf course architect Rees Jones, this course wanders over 600 acres of rolling hills, providing striking elevation changes and panoramic views. This semi-private course also features a 32-acre practice facility.
White columns golf club
300 Clubhouse Drive whitecolumnscountryclub. com This Tom Fazio designed golf course has consistently been rated one of the area’s
Cobb/Cherokee
North Fulton/Forsyth
top courses. The large greens, deep bunkers and numerous elevation changes create a layout which gradually increases in challenge, building to a crescendo the last final 5 holes.
ATLANTA NATIONAL GOLF CLUB
350 Tournament Players Dr atlantanationalgolfclub.com Built on a legacy of greatness crafted by renowned father and son team Pete and P.B. Dye, the 6942 yard, par-72 course meanders across 240 acres of natural hardwoods, babbling brooks and rolling hills, perfect for the golfers who demand challenge, playability.
MANOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
15951 Manor Club Drive manorgcc.com Home to the only Tom Watson championship golf course in Georgia with 18 masterfully designed and memorable holes winding throughout hardwoods and towering pines, quiet lakes and streams. MGCC is seeped in the tradition of Scotland, boasting impeccable course conditions, breathtaking vistas.
Sandy Springs
770.627.4670 770.475.8700 770.559.3264
GLORY OF NEW YORK in Alpharetta
Article By Danielle Bartling Image by Chris Smith
22
winter 2017-2018
LOCAL PEOPLE
O
OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF decades we realized the ingredients in our makeup are somewhat elusive, which should be taken more seriously. Rarely do we know what we’re putting on our faces, many times leading to skincare problems and allergic reactions. These mysterious substances may damage organic skin tissue, negatively affecting health and natural beauty. One woman has made it her life’s work to produce high-quality, mineral-based makeup for women and girls of all ages and ethnicities. Her name is Dee, and she started her own natural beauty brand called GNY Cosmetics, short for “Glory of New York.” Born into a family of entrepreneurs, Dee’s destiny was written in the cosmetological stars. Her father was a businessman and engineer, and she made an early decision to follow in his footsteps. She studied engineering but felt called to enter the beauty industry, into which she dove headfirst. Throughout her life, Dee has enjoyed the process of getting “gussied up,” whether selecting and applying makeup recreationally or in pursuit of her modeling career. She was discovered in a shopping mall by an Indian fashion magazine-slash-modeling agency called Gladrags. She performed a few shows in India before returning
to the United States where she continued her modeling career. With GNY, she has custom designed a career that runs parallel to her passion for modeling as well as her desire to put nontoxic cosmetics on the market. Her beauty line includes eye, lip, face and general skincare products with up to ninety percent natural ingredients. All of her merchandise is designed and manufactured in the United States, and she closely monitors quality. “Being a small business owner makes you wear all kinds of hats. Apart from the artistic core of my brand, I have to work on sales, marketing, inventory, finance and taxes, custom manufacturing and technology,” says Dee. Her favorite part of the job is working directly with her customers, and her least favorite is selecting which ideas are worth an economic pursuit - and which aren’t. Affordability and quality are often, if not always, tradeoffs when it comes to purchasing beauty products. Dee wants to make it easier to obtain inexpensive yet healthful cosmetics. She believes that no one should have to sacrifice long-term health for short-term beauty. Her ultimate goal is for “every woman to feel her skin looks and feels its best.” (gnycosmetics.com)
Raisin’s Ranch
Birthday Parties
PONY PARTIES
Party Barn
Introducing The Barn on Birmingham for your next special event!
Barn Group Events Photo Shoots Petting Zoo Summer Camps
info@raisinsranch.com We are creative and fun, and will do whatever it takes to make your special event amazing!
17955 Birmingham Hwy. Milton GA 30004 • 770.617.1521 • raisinsranch.com
We’re So Excited!
L
LIBERTY HALL, previously an abandoned gas station in downtown Alpharetta at 33 South Main St., will be a 4-story commercial building with offices, shops, restaurants and a rooftop social club (foundersclubatl. com). The building, owned by the American History Guild (americanhistoryguild.com) will have Italianate architecture, handmade brick and custom-made wrought iron. Local restauranteur Ryan Pernice will open Coalition Food & Beverage (rohospitality.com). Another of the slated restaurants is Chef Todd Hogan’s Prairie (cheftoddhogan.com). Hogan recently opened Indigo restaurant and lounge in the Crabapple and Branch & Barrel in Avalon. Liberty Cigars (libertycigars. com) will have a prime position for shoppers. This new project is planning on a first quarter 2018 full opening and expect full occupancy.
Alpharetta’s City Center in 2018
The roughly $85 million next phase of ALPHARETTA CITY CENTER will include 105,000 square feet of restaurants and retail, three acres of greenspace and gardens; 36,000 square feet of office, and 168 apartments. The 26-acre City Center project already includes city hall, a library, a park and town green. Hedgewood Homes is underway building 42 single-family homes here. (citycenteralpharetta.com)
Coming Soon:
SHOPPING Branches Brooklyn’s Kilwins Natural Body Spa and Shoppe Perched Spirited Boutique
EATING Highland Bakery Jinya Ramen Bar Lapeer, a seafood market Never Enough Thyme Raw Juice Boutique Restaurant Holmes Shade Street Food and Bar Vin25 concept
And then there’s More... THE DAILY, a forthcoming dining development located at 11556 Rainwater Drive off Haynes Bridge Rd, has revealed two of their first tenants: King of Pops Bar and Biscuit Love. Developed by local firm Revel and Fresh Hospitality out of Nashville, its 14,000 square feet promises to offer “the best aspects of casual restaurants, beer gardens, food halls, and event space in one unique, communal experience,” according to an official announcement. The Daily is expected to open in the early summer 2018. (thedailyalpharetta.com)
24
winter 2017-2018
How well do you Know Your Heart? Know Your Heart is a screening program designed to determine risk of heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions. Each Know Your Heart participant receives a personalized report with test results, reviewed with a WellStar Medical Group, Cardiovascular Medicine provider. The consultation also includes risk factor education, diet, weight and exercise recommendations. Call 770-956-STAR (7827) to determine eligibility and to schedule an appointment.
Basic Risk Assessment – $49 Advanced Risk Assessment – $139 Heart Screen – $99 or $149 per couple Conveniently located at WellStar North Fulton Hospital 3000 Hospital Blvd – Roswell, GA 30076 wellstar.org
W
Do You KNOW YOUR HEART?
WELLSTAR NORTH FULTON HOSPITAL is now offering the Know Your Heart program, a screening that can help determine patients’ risk for heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions. This program is a preventive, self-pay screening program that offers two levels of testing performed at North Fulton Hospital. Patients can get basic or advanced screenings depending on their age, symptoms and risk factors. “This is a very successful program offered by WellStar Health System and we’re excited to offer it here at North Fulton,” said Hunt Anderson, M.D., medical director of North Fulton’s cardiology program. The screening uses a combination of basic labs and a cardiac CT scans to identify heart disease before someone shows any signs or symptoms. The labs look at things like inflammation and cholesterol which can be indicators of heart disease. The cardiac CT calculates a calcium score. This low radiation scan looks at the calcium buildup in the walls of coronary arteries supplying the heart. Callocallifepublishing.com
cium may be an early sign of coronary heart disease, and a CT may help identify disease before permanent damage is done. “Each screening includes a consultation where we give the patient education on how to improve risk factors going forward,” Dr. Anderson said. During the consultation patients receive risk factor education, diet, weight and exercise recommendations, as well as a personalized report to take home. Unfortunately, heart disease – already the number one killer of men and women in the U.S. – is becoming even more prevalent. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) recently released new figures showing a decrease in life expectancy for the first time since the early ‘90s. Experts credit this country’s growing problem with heart disease for these staggering statistics. The “Know Your Heart” screening is available to patients 18 years old and older and is especially good for people with high risk factors for heart disease, such as those with diabetes, hypertension and obesity. To determine eligibility, call 770-756-STAR (7827).
25
By Tristyn Angel
Venue: Milton Cuisine & Cocktails
L
yes, i do!
LADIES & GENTLEMEN, IT’S A SPECIAL time of year—and we don’t mean the holidays. Engagement season is here! Lucky ones who were engaged during this holiday gift-giving month will soon realize the tremendous amount of planning these next few months will require. There is no reason to look outside Alpharetta or Milton because this area is home to plenty of venues, ceremony sites, wedding vendors or anything else needed for the memorable days ahead. Whether the bride and groom decides on a glamorous ballroom, historic garden or rustic/ chic reception site, it’s important to reserve space early. The best Saturday slots fill fast. The Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta (marriott.com), located 5750 Windward Parkways offers 13 event rooms, 10,193 square feet of event space, and a maximum capacity of up to 800 guests. One of our area’s newest event facilities, The Barn on Birmingham is a perfect place for an authentic, rustic, country or refined experience. Designed with great care and attention to detail, the entire farm can be dressed up or dressed down to match your imagination. (thebarnonbirmingham.com)
26
Little River Farms is a 10,000 square foot historic house venue with a 5,000 square foot pavilion, two gazebos, two lakes and an 80-acre backdrop in Milton. (littleriverfarmsga.com) Opening in early 2018, the Alpharetta Conference Center & Hotel at Avalon is a graceful, modern vanue with 44,000 sq ft and up to 16 event spaces. (experienceavalon.com) All of this is infused throughout a walkable community of shopping, dining and entertaining in the heart of Avalon at Alpharetta. Deciding on the venue is only one of the first steps. To help in finding the rest of the vendors, it’s imperative couples purchase all the local bridal magazines, ask for referrals from friends and trusted vendors and of course, there’s always Google. The good folks at the Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Center are some of the best resources for planning weddings in our area. (awesomealpharetta.com) Another great idea is to attendance a bridal showcase event. The Georgia Bridal Show is scheduled January 7th at the Cobb Galleria Center (georgiabridalshow.com). Bridal shows offer an excellent opportunity to shake hands with prospective vendors. TA winter 2017-2018
LOCAL WEDDINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Wedding Venues in Alpha-Milton Alpharetta Conf. Ctr. • awesomealpharetta.com Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta • marriott.com Atlanta National Golf Club • clubcorp.com/clubs Barn on Birmingham • thebarnonbirmingham.com Barn at Urban Farm • find on facebook Berkshire House • berkshirehouse.wordpress.com Broadwell Pavilion •cityofmiltonga.us Chukkar Farm • chukkarfarmpoloclub.com Crooked Creek Golf Club • thecrookedcreekclub.com The District Salon & Events • thedistrictsalon.com Golf Club of Georgia • golfclubofgeorgia.com Hotel Avalon • experienceavalon.com Little River Farms • littleriverfarmsga.com Manor Golf & Country Club • clubcorp.com/clubs Mansell House & Gardens • aomchs.org Metropolitan Club • themetropolitanclub.net Milton Country Club • miltoncountryclub.com Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails •miltonscuisine.com White Columns Golf Club • clubcorp.com/clubs
Reserve a slot for you and your favorite girls, so you will all look your best for some very important photos!
www.thedistrictsalon.com HAIR SPRAY TANS BROWS MAKE-UP EVENTS WAXING 28 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 • (770) 992-5696 • info@thedistrictsalon.com locallifepublishing.com
27
THINGS TO DO
Winter 2017-18 Calendar Dec / Jan / Feb
December Dec 1
Market at Matilda’s, 10 AM - 4 PM, 377 South Main Street, Thurs thru Saturdays, matildasalpharetta.com Santa at Avalon, 10 AM - 8 PM, 2200 Avalon Blvd., hours vary, event runs through Dec. 24, experienceavalon.com. Holiday Tea with American Girl, 2-4 PM, North Point Mall, americangirl.com. Leonard Julien: Reflections of Soul, 7:30-11 PM, The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, thevelvetnote.com.
Dec 1-2
ACT1 Theater Presents: Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts, 8 - 9PM. ACT1 Theater, 180 Academy St., act1theater.com. Thoroughly Modern Millie, 6PM. Kings Ridge Christian School, 2765 Bethany Bend, kingsridgecs.org.
Dec 1-3
Metropolitan Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker”, 7:30 - 8:30 PM, Blessed Trinity High School, 11320 Woodstock Rd., metropolitanballet.org.
Dec 2
Avalon on Ice, 10 AM - 10
28
PM, 2200 Avalon Blvd., hours vary. Event lasts through Jan. 21, experienceavalon.com. Christmas in Crabapple & Milton Tree Lighting, 2 - 6 PM, Crabapple at Broadwell Pavilion, cityofmiltonga.us. Free Pictures With Santa, 10AM-Noon, Alpharetta Welcome Center, 178 So. Main St, awesomealpharetta.com. Alpharetta Tree Lighting, 4-10 PM, Downtown Alpharetta, alpharetta.ga.us.
Dec 3
Discover Santa’s Toy Factory at North Point Mall, 12-6PM Sun, 11AM-8PM Mon-Sat, thru Dec 24, northpointmall.com. Pet Photos with Santa, 4 - 7 PM, Santa’s House on Palmer Plaza, 900 Third Street, , awesomealpharetta.com. Christmas at Crabapple, 6 7:30 PM, Crabapple Baptist Church, 12760 Birmingham Hwy, atlantasymphony.com.
Dec 6
Cookie Decorating Workshop, 11 AM - 1:30 PM, Sur la table, 1000 North Point Circle, surlatable.com.
Dec 7
Race to the Holidays with Hot Wheels at North Point Mall, 12-3PM, northpointmall.com.
Dec 8
Couples Cooking: Winter Picnic, 7 - 8:30 PM, Publix Apron’s Cooking School, 4305 State Bridge Road, awesomealpharetta.com.
Dec 9
Milton Fire Department Pancake Breakfast with Santa, 8 - 10 AM, 750 Hickory Flat Road, 678.242.2533. The Oded Tzur Quartet, 7:30 - 11 PM, The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, thevelvetnote.com. Pet Photos with Santa Claws at Wills Park, Noon - 2 PM, Waggy World Dog Park, willspark.com.
Dec 10
ACT1 Theate Presents: Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts, 2-3 PM. ACT1 Theater, 180 Academy St., act1theater.com. A Holiday Celebration with the Alpharetta Community Chorus, 3-4PM, Alph. Presbyterian Church, 180 Academy St, alpharettasymphony.com Scriver, Baker Sjobeck Trio, 7-11 PM, The Velvet Note, thevelvetnote.com.
Dec 12
#happyhanukkah
winter 2017-2018
THINGS TO DO
Enthusiastic school children perform at the Alpharetta Christmas Tree Lighting downtown last year.
Dec 14
Men’s Night Out Shopping, 6-8PM, Queen of Hearts Antiques and Interiors, 670 No Main St, queenofheartsantiques-interiors.com. Holidays with Brine Seafood Shack! 6:30 - 8:30 PM, Salud! Cooking School at Whole Foods Market Avalon, 2800 Old Milton Pkwy, wholefoodsmarket.com
Dec 15
National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day at Avalon; experienceavalon.com
Dec 21
Celebrity Kitchen: Ina Garten Holidays, 6 - 8:30 PM, Salud! Cooking School at Whole Foods Market Avalon, 2800 Old Milton Pkwy, wholefoodsmarket.com
Dec 25
#merrychristmas
Dec 29
Countdown: White & Black Party, 6:30 - 9 PM, Salud! Cooking School at Whole Foods Market Avalon, 2800 locallifepublishing.com
Old Milton Pkwy, wholefoodsmarket.com Chieli Minucci & Special EFX, 7:30 - 11 PM, The Velvet Note, thevelvetnote.com.
Dec 30
Jan 18
Confident Seafood, 6:30 PM, Sur la Table Cooking School, 1082 North Point Circle, surlatable.com
Jan 20
Date Night: New Year’s Celebration, 7-9PM, Sur la table, surlatable.com
Saxophonist John Raymond, The Velvet Note, 7:30-11PM, , 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, thevelvetnote.com.
January
February
Jan 1
#happynewyear
Jan 2
Avalon on Ice, Hours Vary, Event runs through January 21st, experienceavalon.com.
Jan 4
Open Mic Jam, 8PM-12AM, Thursday nights at The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, thevelvetnote.com.
Jan 6
Date Night: A Taste of Tuscany, 4 and 7 PM, Sur la Table, 1082 North Point Circle, surlatable.com.
Feb 2
Date Night: Winter in Paris, 6:30 PM, Sur la Table Cooking School, 1082 North Point Circle, surlatable.com.
Feb 14
#happyvalentinesday
Feb 17
Grammy Award Winning Drummer Ulysses Owens, 7:30-11 PM, The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, thevelvetnote.com.
Feb 24
Singer and Actor Sarah Partridge, 7:30-11 PM, The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, thevelvetnote.com.
29
The KISSING Season By Claire Murphy
Muah!
DEPENDING on the culture and context, a kiss can express sentiments of love, passion, romance, sexual attraction, sexual activity, sexual arousal, affection, respect, greeting, friendship, peace, or good luck. In some situations, a kiss is a ritual, formal or symbolic gesture indicating devotion, respect, or sacrament. "Here were kept up the old games of hoodman blind, shoe the wild mare, hot cockles, steal the white loaf, bob apple, and snap dragon; the Yule-clog and Christmas candle were regularly burnt, and the mistletoe with its white berries hung up, to the imminent peril of all the pretty housemaids.” That is what Washington Irving wrote in Christmas Eve (from Irving's The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent, 1820). Irving relates the
30
typical festivities surrounding the Twelve Days of Christmas, including kissing under the mistletoe. He continues his Christmas passage with a footnote: The mistletoe is still hung up in farm-houses and kitchens at Christmas, and the young men have the privilege of kissing the girls under it, plucking each time a berry from the bush. When the berries are all plucked the privilege ceases. When the clock strikes twelve and the Peach drops, it's time for that special New Year's kiss. The popular superstition dictates if we kiss another person at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve then we will have good luck in love. The tradition to share a smooch at midnight meant the first person you encountered at the start of the new year could determine whether you had good or bad fortune in the year ahead. Over time we wised up and begun to take a proactive approach by kissing someone we liked. Happy kissing to you in 2018!
winter 2017-2018
New guests receive 10% off blowouts and men’s haircuts with mention of this ad.
“Veronica is an American Board Certified Colorist, one of only 16 in the entire state of Georgia.” Give the gift of great hair!" Gift Certificates available now. VERONICA STONE Owner,
American Board Certified Hair Colorist, Great Lengths Extension Specialist
Tuesday 11-8 Wednesday 11-8 Thursday 11-7 Fri/Sat 9-5 Sun/Mon Closed.
We specialize in cuts and color for men and women. Call or book your appointment online at
w w w.v e ro n i c a s to n e s a l o n .co m .
1 3 9 20 H i g h w a y 9, S u i te 1 0 0 • M i l to n , G A 3 0 0 0 4 • {67 8} 9 57-1 0 0 0
Experience
Awesome
MEETINGS & EVENTS IN ALPHARETTA!
WEDDINGS
FREE EVENT PLANNING RESOURCES! Think Alpharetta first for your WEDDING, REUNION, MITZVAH, MEETING or SPORTS EVENT. Take advantage of the FREE event planning resources of the Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau including FREE consultation on venues, service providers, fields and facilities, hotels and more.
Call us today and ask for
MITZVAHS
HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Reserve rooms for your guests with one call to the Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau. Room rates are collected from all of Alpharetta’s upscale and modern hotels and provided to you as a comprehensive list of options. Many hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast and local shuttle service.
VISITOR INFORMATION We offer information about shopping and dining, attractions, events, maps, local coupons and more. Visit our Alpharetta Welcome Center located at 178 South Main Street for more details!
M
Want to be IN THE KNOW? Follow us on social media and sign up for our e-newsletter at awesomealpharetta.com to get the R I N F OR latest information about what is TO VO TED happening in Alpharetta! By A
S
ER
32
ppen
Med
ia
VICES
winter 2017-2018
AT ION
VI S
I
our free event planning guide.
SPORTS