How to Fête in Southwest Gwinnett Great Spaces and Caterers for Your Next Event

How to Fête in Southwest Gwinnett

Great Spaces and Caterers for Your Next Event

Words by Patrizia Winsper Photography for Aomi and The Imperial Fez by George Hunter Other photography provided by the individual businesses

“It’s party time. P, A, R, T…Why? Because I gotta!”

— Jim Carrey in the movie, The Mask.

We’ve embraced life’s celebrations since time immemorial. After having been robbed of them to varying degrees over the last couple of years, fêting with our loved ones rouses more powerful jubilation than a pressure cooker on the highest setting, finally able to release steam. It’s a fundamental part of the human condition to want to share our greatest joys and lowest slumps with people we care about. Hence, I made it my personal mission to get acquainted with how and where we can finally come together and revel with colleagues, family and friends for any occasion. The unique options and venues available to us in Southwest Gwinnett won’t cramp anyone’s style, OTP (outside the perimeter of I-285) or otherwise. Allow me to share a smattering of them with you and let’s have some fun!

Let Caterers Bring the Party to You

Morsels by Melissa

morselsbymelissa.com

Figaro qua, Figaro là How many caterers can also be hired to sing an aria from the Marriage of Figaro or Madame Butterfly at your special event? Not many, but lyric soprano, Melissa Gunderson of Morsels by Melissa can! After a decade of performances as an opera singer, moonlighting with illustrious catering companies and working as a personal chef for three years, Gunderson was ready to head home to Georgia, satisfied with the bite she had taken of the Big Apple. Leaving the bright lights of New York behind, Gunderson also set out to abandon the rigors of practicing and traveling to make a living in a manner more favorable to family life. So, she tapped into her passion for cooking and baking full time. Tasty morsels Today the artistic show she finds gratifying is the presentation of her American gourmet cuisine crafted using time-honored French techniques. She loves the whole preparation process; chopping, slicing, dicing, marinating, grilling, smoking, making sauces. “Everything is from scratch — sauces, marinades. I butcher meat, not from the animal — I clean tenderloins, cut pork chops, carve my New York strip steaks from a 20-pound loin. I also smoke my own meats,” she said. Gunderson delights in seeing party guests rave about her food. Since 2000, Morsels by Melissa has been providing catering for any type of event, from family gatherings of 12 to corporate cocktail receptions and weddings of 300. Do you require a special occasion picnic basket, boxed lunches, a buffet or a seated dinner, a simple food drop-off or full five-hour service? Gunderson can deliver in all scenarios with your cuisine of choice: Southern comfort

Top, Wedding Reception with plated Ceasar Salads Above, Plated Flourless Chocolate Cakes with Raspberry Coulis. Photo courtesy of Melissa Gunderson food, Italian, French or Asian. It can be a casual affair or a fine dining experience. Gunderson’s team has you covered, right down to floral arrangements, themes and tablescapes.

When food is flexible Gunderson’s menus can be adapted to each client’s wishes and dietary needs. Restricted diet options are not a problem. When you plan a party with Morsels by Melissa, you’ll speak directly to the owner herself, who oversees every last detail. Popular event menus include pepper seared filet with cherry sauce, potatoes au gratin, grilled vegetables, green beans and chocolate cake with raspberry coulis. “My turkey burgers are like no other burger you’ve ever had; people love them — and my chicken salad. They’re on every family meal menu,” Gunderson said.

Melissa Gunderson

Fun facts At 16, Gunderson was already an accomplished pastry chef, so it’s no surprise that she makes tons of delectable desserts and cakes. You can join her email list at morselsbymelissa@gmail.com to receive monthly meal menus which can be ordered for pick up or delivery.

Evan’s Urban Market

www.evansmarket.com

All over the charcuterie board Did you know the newest maven of prepared food in Peachtree Corners, Evan Hanson of Evan’s Urban Market, can also cater your next corporate lunch, birthday, bridal or baby shower, graduation or holiday party for up to 200 guests? Hours of operation are Tuesday through Friday, 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; and 8 a.m.2 p.m. on weekends. Catered events can spill outside of those times. This chic, urban style market provides fresh breakfasts, lunches and dinners that you’d make for your family yourself — if you were an excellent cook and had the time or the inclination. “It’s homemade food that you don’t have to make,” Hanson explained. She also bakes custom cakes, cookies, pastries and desserts that you only wish you could make. You may know someone deserving of fresh, superhero-themed doughnuts, or want some healthy prepared bowls to grab-and-go for yourself and those counting on you for their sustenance. Allow this mighty market to save the day. Bonus: Pop-in to find some neat, locally sourced gifts because you’re never too busy to be thoughtful.

Prosciutto and melon appetizers

This little market went to the party Hanson’s catering selections are trendy and elegant. “We can do appetizers to desserts, and anything in between,” Hanson said. Her team will set out boxed lunches, appetizers, finger foods, or create and replenish hot buffets at your event. How would you like some dainty amuse-bouches, a grazing table, a colossal charcuterie board, bite sized chicken and waffles, or creamy garlic chicken at your next party? Perhaps you’d like to offer guests a taco, Mimosa or Bloody Mary bar? Hanson is a pro at accommodating gluten free,

Evan Hanson Photo by Isadora Pennington

keto, vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, dairy-free and just about any other dietary restrictions. Usually, her food is picked-up or delivered, but she can provide patio and limited indoor seating on site.

When it comes to catering, this is how they roll Manager Joyce Yuan at Sushi Osawa aims to meet your catering needs safely, with a commitment to providing good food and service. “We have successfully catered parties from corporate luncheons to birthday parties, grad parties and more. Our team members are here to help with your menu selections and unique needs,” Yuan said.

With little advance notice required and menus for every event, from individually packed sushi, hibachi, poke or ramen boxed lunches to party trays, big or small, you can easily have your next shindig catered by Sushi Osawa and serve your guests centuries-old Japanese cuisine so beautifully arranged and presented, it looks like a work of art. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.10 p.m.; and 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. on Sundays.

A Sashimi party platter

Host Parties at Unique Locations Around Town

From flaming onion volcanos on a hibachi grill to fiery swords balancing on the heads of hip-swaying belly dancers, there’s no shortage of diversity and variety in Southwest Gwinnett, where you will find the perfect event space for any kind of party you can conceive. Follow me for a glimpse into some neat locations I discovered around town!

Keep it simple and fresh like sushi You and your guests can enjoy appetizers like spring rolls, fried calamari and tempura. Catering packages combine appetizers, entrees, sides and sushi platters. Picture colorful trays of rolls, nigiri (a raw slice of fish like salmon or blue fin tuna atop a pillow of vinegared rice), sashimi (thin, raw slices of fish), hibachi with seasonal vegetables and fried rice. Flavorful salads and desserts are also available. Oishī! (Delicious!) Visit ezcater.com/catering/pvt/sushi-osawa-norcross to select your desired catering packages. Orders over $100 can be delivered. If you’re also in need of a venue, six to 100 people can be accommodated for private events at Sushi Osawa. For parties of 60 or more, the whole restaurant would need to be reserved with a minimum spend of $25 per person. Tables and chairs can easily be rearranged to adapt to any group size. For those who want to dance to a different tuna, let’s visit some other interesting sites for our Southwest Gwinnett socials.

PEACHTREE CORNERS

The Marriott Atlanta Peachtree Corners

marriott.com/en-us/hotels/atlcp-atlanta-marriott-peachtree-corners

The only full-service Marriott in Gwinnett County Catch a ride on an autonomous vehicle to the renovated Marriott on Technology Parkway. The hotel bustles with referrals for wedding room blocks, bridal suites, rehearsal dinners, welcome receptions and farewell brunches being that it’s surrounded by wedding powerhouses like St. Ives Country Club, Spring Hall and the Atlanta Athletic Club. It’s open 24 hours a day, but the sales team can be reached Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m.5 p.m. Catering Sales Manager Christina Mathews has overseen thousands of events — mitzvahs, sweet 16 birthdays, nuptials, baby showers, holiday parties, family reunions and meetings. “We have 5,000 square feet of adjustable meeting space, from boardrooms to ballrooms. Our 2,816 square foot ballroom can accommodate standing-only receptions of 300, 150 people seated at banquet rounds with a dance floor,” Mathews said. “We also have a beautiful courtyard with a fire pit that can host ceremonies or cocktail receptions for 100 or less. Our garden area can accommodate 80 or less for a ceremony. Our secluded boardroom has natural light, sits on the second floor and can host nine guests in nice office chairs.”

Wedding Salon at The Marriott Atlanta

Perks like certified planners and more at the Marriott Get professional help with every detail, including budget, table arrangement and settings, vendors, entertainment and selecting a menu. Known for authentic Southern cuisine, Executive Chef Kenny Botte creates guest favorites like Apple Glazed Salmon, Thyme and Cara-

A winter look at The Marriott Atlanta

melized Shallot Chicken Breast, Smoked Manhattan Rubbed Beef Brisket and Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Maple Gastrique and Sunflower Seed Gremolata. He prepares vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan or kosher requests and creates substitutions for those with peanut allergies and gluten intolerance. Outside catering is permitted for guests who would like a particular chef or ethnic cuisine. Personalize the space with décor packages that include upgraded chair covers, satin overlays and up-lighting. AV equipment and high-speed Wi-Fi allow for sentimental slideshows to enhance the experience. Virtual access is available for those who can’t attend the event in person.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

peachtree-corners.firebirdsrestaurants.com

The perfect sear for a smoking soirée Kick off your next polished, casual event at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill at Town Center. The restaurant has been named one of ten ‘Breakout Brands’ by Nation’s Restaurant News and Diners’ Choice by OpenTable. Nothing beats the flavor of food infused with the aromatic compounds of wood smoke served fresh off the grill. It’s a terrific venue for birthdays, anniversaries, wedding and baby showers, corporate or civic gatherings. The intimate enclosed patio with garage doors, TV screens, ceiling fans and heaters is carpeted and accommodates up to 22 people for a private function. Group dining menus are fully customizable and include vegetarian and gluten-free options. Enjoy a selection of mouthwatering choices like succulent shrimp-topped filet mignon, grilled chicken, baby back ribs, seafood, seasonal fresh vegetables, house made tater tots and cider slaw. The kids’ menu offers an assortment of de-

licious choices certified by the National Restaurant Association’s Kids LiveWell program. For Group Dining menus, visit peachtree-corners.firebirdsrestaurants.com/menus/ group-dining. “A fabulous dining experience is what Firebirds is all about. We host many private meetings and parties throughout the year. We love making special events come to life at the restaurant,” said Marylou Metivier, Managing Partner. Metivier recommends calling or emailing to book an event at least two weeks in advance.

Filet and shrimp at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Striped bass at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill Party space at Stäge Kitchen & Bar.

Catering options? Fire away! For those who’d prefer to bring the special touches of Firebirds Wood Fired Grill home, the restaurant offers an off-site catering solution that makes planning a party a piece of cake. For more information contact Marylou Metivier at 770-225-4662 or marylou.metivier@fbgrill. com. Restaurant hours are Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Stäge Kitchen & Bar

stagepeachtreecorners.com

Not stage, Stäge! Perhaps the most mispronounced eatery in town, Stäge is one of the newest on the Peachtree Corners restaurant scene. Early in their careers, chefs work as unpaid interns to learn new techniques under accomplished chefs they admire. It’s a transfer of skill, knowledge and passion that occurs during a young chef’s stäge, from the French word for apprenticeship. It’s pronounced “staahj” — and it’s time we get

it right. They’ve been in business for over a year. Here’s some help; hear the proper pronunciation at howtopronounce.com/french/stage/ by clicking on the arrow next to the word. That ambitious spirit to try new things of a budding, adventurous chef is likely what’s behind the seasonally changing menu, its international cuisine and the name, Stäge Kitchen & Bar.

You had me at seafood, steak, pasta, global tapas and elevated sushi Director of Operations Raquel Stalcup provided guidance on hosting parties at Stäge. Their broad bill of fare is sure to have something for everyone. “Our set menus are highly customizable and provide a variety of our most popular items. They can be two to five course menus. The menu selected most often is our three-course menu of starters, entrée and dessert,” Stalcup shared. Dietary needs can be incorporated into the menu design. One may elect to host a seated or reception-style party at Stäge. Two private dining rooms seat up to 36 guests each. For larger parties of up to 70, a door opens to combine the two spaces. The patio is large enough for 60 guests, seated or standing. The area between the bar and kitchen can also be used to host happy hour or cocktail style events. Restaurant hours are Monday to Thursday, 11

a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and dinner 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m. If you’d rather have Stäge come to you, they do offer drop-off or off-site catering and service as well. Magnifique!

CMX CinéBistro Peachtree Corners

cmxcinemas.com/locationdetail/peachtree

Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not at a typical party anymore Be the star of your next function by treating invitees to an elevated movie screening experience as part of your celebration at CMX CinéBis-

tro. Show the latest movie, bring your own content for special programming or play video games on the big screen, all in 4K digital projection and 7.1 surround sound. All sorts of get-togethers can take place here: book clubs, birthdays, professional conferences, cocktail and dinner parties. Find comfortable, reclining theatre seats, movie concessions like popcorn and candy, a chef-crafted menu, beer, fine wine and hand-crafted cocktails for the ultimate in-theatre dining experience. Alternatively, you can have lunch or dinner at the restaurant or bar, or in the private dining room before the movie begins.

The Private Dining Room at CMX Ciné Bistro Below, Cheese Board setup Hibachi chef Jun Kwon in action at Aomi at the Forum

A fête worthy of the big screen Vice President of Culinary Development Andy King opened the curtain on their private party options. “We offer customizable service for any type of event, such as passed small bites, plated dinners or the classic buffet,” he said. “Our highly skilled bar staff can create custom cocktails to really make your event one of a kind.” Gluten free and vegetarian options are offered. CMX CinéBistro at Peachtree Corners can also adjust menus to meet food restrictions. Prepare for a fine dining experience here with dishes prepared in a scratch kitchen. It’s a restaurant that also shows movies with better sound and picture quality than you’ll ever have at home. King added, “Food is something that brings people together and it’s a way to share and celebrate our diverse cultures. New American cuisine, to me, is the very definition of that. It is a melting pot of comfort food with a global influence.” Shelley Korenbrot, Atlanta Area Events and Sales Manager, recommends booking seven to 14 business days in advance. The number of

guests and the movie start time will determine your party’s timeline. The facility is equipped with “…six theatres; three screens have 101 seats and three screens have 95 seats. The lounge area — where guests can sit in booths, at tables or stand and mingle — can hold up to 150 guests. The private dining room can hold a standing reception for 20 guests or up to 15 seated guests,” Korenbrot said. There is something extraordinarily luxurious about feasting on delectable beef sliders or pan seared Atlantic salmon on a convenient swing-arm personal table while sitting in a plush leather seat watching a movie shown with state-of-the-art projection and audio. Your guests will never forget this epic experience at CMX CinéBistro.

Aomi Japanese Restaurant

aomijapanese.com

Another kind of dinner and a show Aomi at the Forum serves up dinner and a show, consisting of chefs skillfully wielding spatulas during a sort of live cooking show enhanced by a pyrotechnic performance as guests look on tableside. It’s Japanese cuisine on fire — literally. Hibachi means “fire bowl.” Watch as steak, chicken, salmon and lobster are prepared on the hibachi grill with fried rice. A sushi bar is also part of the Aomi experience during both lunch and dinner. They prepare all your favorites like sushi rolls, sashimi, nigiri and udon noodle dishes. “What’s special about a hibachi party is the social aspect of a large group getting together to have really amazing food and creating memories at the same time. It’s entertainment. We provide the best quality we can,” said Manager Kenny Park. Gather by the fire to eat and drink You can have up to 110 guests around different hibachi tables sectioned off for your private event. Parties of up to 140 people can be accommodated in the restaurant. A buyout option is contingent upon the size, start time and duration of your party. Manager Scott Choi suggested grouping

guests according to food allergies or sensitivities so one grill can prepare vegetarian meals only, for example. Business hours are Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; they’re open until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Aomi often delivers to places of business during the week.

NORCROSS

The 173 Carlyle House

173carlylehouse.com

Experience and elegance meet imagination Gerise Janousek, Special Events Coordinator at 173 Carlyle House, says of this charming historic house in Old Norcross: “We are a family-owned business that has been doing this for 32 years. We have …long-standing staff that has been in the service industry for years. Delicious food is made on site by our chefs …in the restaurant business in Atlanta for over 50 years. We have spaces for all size parties that can accommodate any vision one may have.” Any special event, from 20 to 450 people, can be hosted here. One hundred people can be accommodated for a seated dinner in the old house. The ballroom and terrace each hold 200 people, seated. Elegant surroundings, tall magnolia trees and nicely landscaped outdoor areas make this an ideal location for celebrations. Vegetarian and gluten free options are available at 173 Carlyle House. Clients may discuss having certain cultural dishes brought in with their event coordinator. Delicious and attractive custom cakes are also made in-house. Schedule a tour of the facility Monday through Saturday by appointment only.

The Atrium

magicweddingvenues.com/the-atrium

Fête in style at a stunning estate The Atrium in Norcross is a two-story, white neoclassical building. Three of the ballroom’s four sides are floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking an elegant courtyard and a quaint and unexpected Italian marble gazebo adorned with flourishing greenery. The garden and ballroom are ideal for ceremony and reception spaces. The outdoor space is used during most events, whether for seating, highboys, an hors d’oeuvres table or a second bar. A built-in contingency plan to set up inside means you’ll never have to worry about inclement weather; the final decision can be made as late as two hours prior to start time. This dazzling property screams wedding, but General Manager Kristin Mintz shared the ins and outs of hosting a party at The Atrium, revealing it’s the ideal location for any private, all-inclusive affair, such as birthday and retirement parties, company galas and and even celebration of life events. There’s a maximum capacity of 150 for a seated/ served meal or a mingling cocktail reception. Starting packages include a buffet. Seated dinners allow the chefs to be more creative when plating. Sometimes buffet stations are added — for late-night snacks, for instance. An event revenue minimum, based on the season and day reserved, must be met. You may tour The Atrium Tuesday through Saturday, by appointment only. Venue incentives are available for select dates with tons of customizable options for couples to chose from. Brides looking to get married in 2023 need to act quickly. Everyone is still making-up for lost time since the great isolation of COVID-19, so for the prime months of September, October, May or June, it’s safest to book a year in advance. “In this market, everything is booking up so fast. We’re booking into 2024 right now,” Mintz said.

The gazebo in the garden is a favorite place for ceremonies at the Atrium

Not just a pretty place “Our food is locally sourced, but internationally recognized. We run the gamut, from Southern staples like fried green tomatoes, mac and cheese, fried chicken and pulled pork all the way to more eclectic options from around the world,” Mintz stated. “A favorite is our Poke Station, which was created after the company owner traveled to Hawaii and was able to learn the secrets from local chefs. In order to create authentic Indian cuisine, our chef de cuisine spent time in India, which resulted in a delicious Indian fusion that has become very popular.” The chefs are comfortable providing gluten free, vegan, dairy free and vegetarian fare. The experts here handle everything: cakes, desserts, florals and design, food, beverages and rentals like lounge seating and up lighting to make the

room glow. The Atrium is a powerhouse, thanks to the quality of its food and capabilities of its design studio. But Mintz credits her devoted team the most. “Our people make us stand out. They really make the event special; they love what they do. Several of our clients have all their children get married at one of our properties,” Mintz smiled.

A beautiful tablescape at the Crowne Plaza Hotel

The Crowne Plaza Hotel Atlanta NE — Norcross

https://bit.ly/3CIcwxZCROWN

Make up for lost party time This recently updated hotel offers 9,000 square feet of elegant, modern event space and aims to exceed expectations. Banquets for 20 to 500 guests can take place at the Crowne Plaza for any occasion imaginable. For standing only reception style events, up to 1000 people can be accommodated. “Our menu varies from classic Americana to Caribbean, Italian, Ethiopian, street tacos and paella,” said Director of Sales and Marketing Christina Howell-Scott. These can be served plated or buffet and reception style with unique action stations available. Groups may bring in kosher or Indian cuisine, provided they present the proper licensing. Howell-Scott stressed the importance of booking your event the minute a date is set.

Ivy Tea House — Atlanta Tea House + Event Space

ivyteahouse.com

Par-tea with pinkies up! My girlie eyes could not believe what they had spotted when I first scrolled onto an Ivy Tea House Instagram post. From the owners of the beloved Bleu House Café and Ginger Spice Bakery was born this little jewel of a tea house nestled in a verdant garden of monsteras, lilies and an avocado tree in historic Norcross. China plates adorn the walls, teaware is thrifted and expressly set in a mismatched fashion. Escape to the small town feel of an exquisitely dainty, quaint cottage for a tea party. Ivy Tea House provides a picture-perfect ambiance for rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, birthdays, bridal and baby showers. The newly remodeled house feels homey with an airy, modern edge.

Ivy Tea House

“The tea-party, …has no …basis but delicate enjoyment.” — Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin Aranthza Fenimore, General Manager and Tea Consultant, is on track to become a tea sommelier by end of year. She shared the particulars of private functions at the tea house. Her enthusiasm for what she and the all-female team do there pours into her every word. Partake in the tradition of afternoon or high tea and be treated to the attentive service of a by-reservation-only type of affair with delicate two- and three-tiered serving trays towering with savory and sweet selections like wild mushroom flatbread, sausage meatballs, cucumber and chicken salad finger sandwiches, cardamom-sultana scones, quiche and raspberry almond cake with rose glaze — all carefully garnished with fresh-cut flowers. “Our towers are beautifully presented. So much effort goes into every little detail. People gasp when they see them. They bring a lot of joy and excitement,” Fenimore said. Discover your favorite tea blend. Is it Luscious London black tea with rose hip or Lemon Meringue?

Ivy Tea House

Tea for two — or three — or 100 Two to 100 guests can enjoy a semi-private or private occasion in an indoor/outdoor setting, seated or buffet style, provided they book at least two weeks in advance for a Friday and one to two months in advance for a Saturday, either for a 12 p.m., 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. seating. A pot of tea awaits you at your table when you arrive. As you enjoy it, elevated trays brimming with your food selections arrive. They are prepared as ordered, just before your arrival. Anything on their afternoon tea, high tea or catering menu can be ordered for your event. You can also create a unique party menu. The chef is open to accommodating special dietary needs. A pampering, self-care kind of experience is what they aim for at Ivy Tea House. The staff can provide a one-stop shop for party hosting with everything from décor and food to custom cakes, florals, balloons, garlands and rentals. Add-ons include a corkage fee for the glassware and serving of any alcohol brought in by guests.

The 3120

the3120.com

Parties, special events and concerts welcome The 3120 is a new, modern venue whose owners have been in the event space business for over 10 years; they also own KTN Ballroom in Duluth. With giant, customizable 4K LED screens, a professional audio system and full decoration packages with up lighting, this versatile space can take on an enchanting ambiance and be just the place for any stage of life celebration, holiday or company party, conference or seminar. Even concerts can take place here, provided they remain within the 250-person maximum capacity. Surrounded by nature, the private property of-

fers plenty of lovely outdoor areas that make an ideal setting for photo opportunities. The facility includes a main hall or front lobby (3,000 square feet), a large buffet room with windows (2,500 square feet), a ballroom (4,686 square feet) and two convenient changing rooms. Consider booking at least three months prior to your desired event date. Parties are held Monday to Friday in the evenings, and all-day Saturday and Sunday until 2 a.m.

DULUTH Kurt’s Bistro

kurtsrestaurant.com

Planning feasts for over 35 years Kurt’s Bistro has relocated a few times over the years, but it’s been serving delicious German fare like schnitzels, sauerbraten and apple strudel ever since its inception in 1985. Not at all limited to Oktoberfest delights, ribeye, seabass, lamb rack and a bevy of other scrumptious choices are on the bistro’s menu. Their Black Forest Spätzle (soft egg noodles) with cheese and bacon is a supreme combination of irresistible texture and rich flavor. I met with General Manager Alexander Eisele, Kurt’s son, who is in the kitchen daily, preparing all the basics before the staff arrives. With his German-born father and chef at the helm, the family is united in its fervidness to serve delicious food. In 2011, they downsized from a sizeable 1930s home to their current location on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard. Here, The Panoz Room can hold two to six guests for a private event. A cozy space known as The Wine Cellar accommodates get-togethers of 32 people, ideal for rehearsal dinners and other family festivities. It also works well for corporate groups of 10 to 14 who make use of the room’s screen and audio system for presentations. The covered patio can be a perfect place to get your party started before being seated for a meal. It’s also rented for larger groups or casual cocktail parties. Renting the entire restaurant is also an option.

Guten appetit! “We’ve been entrusted with numerous milestone events and corporate dinners. We will create the perfect meal to wow all your guests,” Eisele said. Celebrate at Kurt’s Monday through Saturday, from 4 p.m.-9 p.m. You can create a customized menu to cover any dietary restrictions you may need and any variety of food choices you may like. Lunch and dinner Prix Fixe menus and an Oktoberfest catering menu are also available. “If you want a Budweiser or broccoli cheese soup, don’t come here. We try to be unique. That’s one of the reasons we’ve been in business for 35 years,” Eisele said. He also cited their ability to evolve while avoiding trends, and keeping the quality of their food consistently high, as reasons for their longevity. “We encompass what we started with; we’re a chef-based restaurant. That’s why people should be going out to eat, for the food,” Eisele said.

Host your next event at Grace 17.20! Specializing in: Bridal Luncheons, Rehearsal Dinners, Weddings Business Meetings Family Celebrations 678-421-1720 events@grace1720.com

Imperial Fez

Dancer Sigel leading the Guallett family in dancing at the Imperial Fez From left, Joshua , Riaghan, Maesyn and wife Ariana

Chefs and Owners, Rita and Rafih Benjelloun

BERKELEY LAKE

Imperial Fez Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge

imperialfezrestaurant.com

Be whisked away to North Africa After a 30-year stint in Buckhead, Imperial Fez Mediterranean Restaurant moved to Berkley Lake. The OTP crowd gained a sensory escape to the faraway sights, sounds, aromas and flavors of North Africa. Loyal Buckhead patrons willingly head northeast now for the unique ambiance, authentic Moroccan cuisine, excellent service and exotic entertainment they’d long enjoyed. What an exciting and surprising way to be able to fête in Southwest Gwinnett! Have your next meeting or celebration at Imperial Fez and journey to Morocco for two hours with up to 125 of your dearest friends and loved ones. Private rooms are available for your special occasions, like The Rabat for intimate gatherings of up to 15 people or The Marrakesh room for a party of 30-35 guests. Larger parties of up to 70 can be accommodated in The Casa Blanca room. Patio space is also available. Sit on low, loungestyle seating with pillows and sofas or at regular tables, chairs and booths. Amidst the ethnic décor of richly colored fabrics and intricate patterns, you’ll encounter traditional Moroccan cuisine and hospitality. I spoke to Chef and Owner Rita Benjelloun, who along with her husband, fellow Chef and Owner Rafih, takes great pride in sharing their customs. Leave your shoes and worries at the door. Your five-course meal begins with a tableside washing-of-the-hands ritual. Using a “tass,” an ornate sliver kettle and bowl set, a server pours warm rose water from the kettle onto your hands as you wash. The matching silver bowl catches the water below. Utensils are abandoned in favor of using your hands to consume the savory meal.

Shake it up Indulge in dishes like Lamb Tajine, Chicken Kabobs, Couscous, Lemon Pepper Crispy Pompano and Roasted Pheasant with pomegranate sauce. Enjoy the meal as belly dancers move fluidly about with traveling steps and turns, entertaining diners as they accent the beat of the Middle Eastern music with staccato hip movements and relaxed shoulder shimmies. For all that may seem foreign at Imperial Fez, familiar favorites like a full bar and VIP tables are also available. “A wide range of foods, including Caesar Salad and Mediterranean dishes with an Italian and Spanish influence, are also on the menu. It’s not just Moroccan food,” Benjelloun said. Special dietary needs, including Halal, can be accommodated. Benjelloun recommends at least three to four days’ notice for a weekday event, and as much advance notice as possible for weekend parties, as that is when they’re busiest. Imperial Fez is open Wednesday to Saturday, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. and parties can be booked on any day. ##

Happy gathering!

With social event catering options to make it easy, and so many fascinating location possibilities in our region, I hope this guide has spurred some ideas for you and I hope it comes in handy as you organize soirées again. I’ll look forward to receiving more party invitations as we continue to come out of the pandemic-induced interruption of our usual social activities. So how will you choose to Fête in Southwest Gwinnett? I’d love to hear all about it!

Other Venues Around Town Where You Can Host Private Events

■ Anderby Brewing — anderbybrewing.com/private-events ■ Atlanta Tech Park — atlantatechpark.com ■ Chapel at Simpsonwood Park — 770.822.5450 or GwinnettHistoricRentals@GwinnettCounty.com ■ Flint Hill — magicweddingvenues.com/flint-hill ■ Gwen Tajz Wine Bar — gwentajzwinebar.com ■ The Hilton Atlanta Northeast — hilton.com/en/hotels/ atlhphf-hilton-atlanta-northeast/ events/ ■ Mojito’s the Forum — mojitosbistro.com ■ Nitro Zone — nitrozone.com ■ Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center — norcrossga.net/153/Community-Center-Reservations ■ Pinckneyville Park Community Center — Info & Rentals: 678.277.0920, or email PCCenter@GwinnettCounty.com ■ Noona Meat & Seafood www.noonaduluth.com/reservations ■ Bowlero — bowlero.com/location/bowlero-norcross/parties

Grace 1720

grace1720.com/privateevents A tiered fountain in the courtyard, travertine marble floors and pretty chandeliers would set the stage nicely for your next celebration. The European ambiance and rustic-chic décor of Grace 1720 in the Forum has been a neighborhood favorite for 18 years, offering up contemporary American cuisine. The restaurant name is a nod to Bible verse Matthew 17:20, which expresses the powerful notion that nothing is impossible for those who have even the tiniest amount of faith, because even if that faith is as small as a mustard seed, it can move mountains. Planning a party here however is a breeze, no mountain-moving required. The Chef’s Room is ideal for an intimate group of 10-12 people who want a private space. The doors can be shut for total privacy. The Private Dining Room upstairs features a beautiful chandelier and a large banquet table. Capacity is 40 people for a seated meal. Cocktail parties could accommodate more. The Bar Area lends itself well to a mingling cocktail party. The Main Dining Room can be reserved for a party of 60 or more. When outside temperatures are not prohibitive, the doors can be opened onto the patio creating an indoor/outdoor space. The Patio offers nice views, a fountain and a fireplace for the cooler days ahead. It can seat 45-50 people. If you reserve the patio and Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate, your event will be moved to the Private Dining Room upstairs. A total buyout would allow you to host the maximum number of guests, 155 occupancy. kettlerockbrewing.com/private-events/ You won’t be finding Nemoe’s on Peachtree Parkway anymore because Kettlerock Brewing moved into the 5,000 square foot space last year and built a cozy taproom and brewing facility in its place. How many Georgia Tech Engineers does it take to open a microbrewery in Peachtree Corners? Six, to be exact – all six members of the Peet family are Tech graduates. If you feel like you’re in a mountain cabin when you step inside and see a double-sided stone fireplace, an antler-adorned chandelier and a bear rug — not the skin, a regular rug with a bear design on it — that’s because the owners cherish their fond memories of family vacations in North Carolina where, you guessed it, there’s an actual Kettle Rock Mountain. The adventurous Peets brew the beer on site, crafting a nice variety of both European and American style beers. They once dreamed about it; today they’re doing it and they have the merchandise and event space to prove it. Fill out their online form to start planning your next event at Kettlerock Brewing.##

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The Forum Undergoes Brand Refresh

A slightly new name and a change from a ‘tenant,’ ‘customer’ and ‘retail’ perspective to a ‘partner,’ ‘guest’ and ‘experience’ approach creates a downtown for the city of Peachtree Corners.

Words by Arlinda Smith Broady

In a state resplendent with easily recognizable and long-time symbols of business, industry and commerce, it’s no wonder that a strong brand logo means a lot here. The triangle or “widget” that represents Delta Air Lines, the green trefoil of the Girl Scouts or the fancy cursive lettering on a bottle of Coca Cola have evolved over the years to freshen up the image, introduce the brand to a new generation and/or include new facets of the company.

For similar reasons, owner North American

Properties (NAP) has decided to redesign The

Forum’s emblem and give it a new logo and brand identity. The changes were announced at the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce’s First Friday Breakfast on Aug. 5. Similar to the previously mentioned companies, it’s a subtle change that opens up new possibilities and conjures up an updated perspective on the familiar concept.

“We really have always approached our investments much more from a community perspective,” said Tim Perry, managing partner at

NAP. “We changed the jargon and our entire industry really started using words like ‘community,’ and marketing started using words like ‘guests’ instead of ‘customers’ and started using ‘partners’ instead of tenants and started referring to our own people as ‘experience

makers’ and got so vigilant about it, we actually trademarked the words ‘experience maker’.” For example, there are fitness classes every Wednesdays through summer and The Forum is back to sponsoring the annual Light Up the Corners Glow Run, a fundraiser for the Robert Fowler YMCA that took place in August. The new logo removes the sketch of the property and gives the name a slight change to “The Forum at Peachtree Corners.” When the mall was built, Peachtree Corners hadn’t yet become a city, so logically it was named The Forum on Peachtree Parkway at the time — but those times have changed.

Community mindset

“It really does start with the community,” said Perry. “Despite what it had been called for 20 years, Peachtree Corners is now a city. …And it is time for us to embrace that. And that should be our identifier.” The Forum added an event called Friday Night Live that encourages gatherings for after-work drinks with colleagues, a night out with friends and family and a little tailgating before high school football games. “Every Friday, now through the beginning of November, we’ll have the event at 5:30,” said Perry. “It’s early so that everyone can come to The Forum to hang out with their friends meet up, drop off cars pick up cars — and there’s live music!” This is just another example of turning The Forum into a place for “experiences.” “There’s plenty of parking… We want people to come and enjoy the property. And at the end of the day, what we want more than anything is really the traffic on the property,” said Perry. The old mall concept was a variety of retail offerings and that was pretty much it, besides seasonal activities like pictures with Santa or the Easter Bunny and trick-or-treating at various stores. Perry said the new way of thinking is to lure people to an event or a thing to do. If they eat at a restaurant, buy something at a store or utilize another service, it’s an organic choice. “We try to extend what we call the three-hour experience and make them last throughout an 18-hour day,” he said. For example, someone living in an apartment may come out at 6 a.m. to walk the dog and stop by a coffeeshop. Mid-mornings are time for workouts, such as Yoga on the Green or a toddler program where parents bring strollers. Around noon, nearby office workers may gather for lunch and there are early evening gatherings and dinners out. Maybe a light night crowd stops in after catching a football or basketball game. “In essence, this is what we’re talking about — connections,” said Perry. “We look at our merchandising as not just putting in a food and beverage operator or retailer, but how do we create a vision for the property?” City leaders applaud the community approach to development that North American Properties is taking with The Forum and nearby properties. Still, they’re cautious when approving any development. It has to fit into the Peachtree Corners Master Plan, and it has to make sense for current needs and those in the near future. In July, city staff recommended approval of rezoning areas on The Forum side of Peachtree Parkway as well as a development of the Town Center side. However, the Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of the zoning request on The Forum side, but recommended denial of the request for rezoning on the Town Center side.

Although he’s not a member of the Planning Commission, City Councilman Weare Gratwick was at the meeting and had conversations with its members and with officials at North American Properties. “I think there was concern that — not so much on The Forum side, but on Town Center side — it was going back in history,” he said. “The City Council had voted to zone that property to allow a hotel and apartments to go up at the same time. …But it expired at a certain date. Once it expired, it reverted to the original zoning, which was commercial.” In order to put in the Innovation Lofts project, which consists of apartments, North American Properties was required to seek rezoning. The plan is for apartments on the Town Center side and a hotel on The Forum side. “That changes things,” said Gratwick. “So, on the Town Center side, for lack of a better way of putting it, you have just an apartment building. And I think the concern was that there would be rental properties and no owner properties.”

The positives of rental properties

On many occasions, Perry has explained his company’s rationale for putting only rental property in close proximity to The Forum. “We need to have people coming to the restaurants three or four days a week,” he said, explaining that with tenant turnover every two years or so, there will be a fresh batch of people who are more likely to eat out that often. Young professionals, mainly single or empty nesters, deciding where they eventually want to buy a condo or smaller house are the target for those one- and two-bedrooms units. “It’s a downtown that has people who are there three or four days a week. It can support the population density which, in turn, supports the boutique that sells clothes, a candle store, a restaurant — those businesses need people over there all the time. They need a lot of traffic, a lot of energy,” said Perry. He cited Avalon as an example where, as the renters decided they wanted to be owners, a great many chose nearby neighborhoods. Perry seemed confident that NAP and the Peachtree Corners government will find the right solution for new development. “We focus on places, not spaces — and community,” he said. “We don’t try to change what it is. … We just try to make it better.” He added that, in several decades, the needs and wants may be different. “One day someone is going to build something that’s better than The Forum,” he said. He encouraged city leaders to have an open mind then — like they have now — invest time and money into it and listen to what they community wants and needs. ##

NAP Vision Wins Over Peachtree Corners Officials

After a lengthy City Council meeting, rezoning for The Forum and Town Center will bring about a boutique hotel and 630 one- and two-bedroom apartments.

By Arlinda Smith Broady

After what may have been the longest City Council meeting in Peachtree Corners history, on Aug. 24, North American Properties (NAP) received approval for both rezoning requests — to add apartments and a boutique hotel to the area adjacent to The Forum and to add apartments across the street in the area at Town Center. Although a few other items were on the agenda, the lion’s share of the time was taken up with the matter of mixed-use development in what is quickly becoming downtown Peachtree Corners. In the end, the vision outlined by NAP Managing Partner Tim Perry won over City Council. At issue was the second read and consideration of The Forum Mixed-Use project, a request to rezone 44 acres from C-2 to MUD to allow for new mixed-use development at 5131 through 5185 Peachtree Pkwy. The request to rezone The Forum to accommodate residential and temporary housing garnered the most community input, but seemingly convinced most City Councilmembers. After nearly five hours of questions from City Council, a presentation by Perry, comments from the audience, rebuttal from Perry and further discussion by City Council, the vote passed 6 to 1 with Councilman Alexander Wright as the only ‘nay.’ There were about a dozen people who spoke out in support of the project, mainly from business interests such as the Gwinnett County Chamber of Commerce, the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber, Explore Gwinnett and Hargray Communications. Equally, there were close to a dozen who weren’t for the rezoning, but a few qualified their position by saying they were more on the fence than solidly against. “You could put me in the ‘maybe’ category if you had one,” said one speaker. By the time City Council was prepared for the vote, a few compromises had come about: ■ The number of rooms in the hotel would be between 100 and 250. ■ There would be accommodations for up to two drive-thru type retailers, such as a Starbucks. ■ NAP would work out details for security and the final plans for the parking deck with the city manager or his designee. That portion of the plan wouldn’t need to come back for City Council approval. The second read and consideration of the Innovation Lofts Mixed-Use project, a request to add 3.73 acres to the existing 20.6-acre Town Center MUD zoning district by rezoning 3.73 acres from C-2 to MUD with associated variance to allow for a new multifamily residential development at 4936 Peachtree Corners Circle, was a separate issue. Still, Perry stated that they were part of the same vision. North American Properties wants to “…create a true town center around the already magnetic development of The Forum. …The acquisition of both these sites and the opportunity to invest in such a pro-business community with leadership and vision is compelling,” said Perry. “We’ve covered this for a long time to look not just granularly at each one of these individual pieces but combining them seeking density and seeking success for both.” He added that NAP will invest over $450 million between what’s already been invested in the redevelopment and the multifamily units that it seeks to develop. The concept of apartments in the Town Center area wasn’t as popular. In the end, the rezoning request was approved, but by the narrowest margin — 4 to 3, with ‘nays’ coming from Phil Sadd, Alex Wright and Lori Christopher. ##

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Duluth Fall Festival

September 24-25, Downtown Duluth

By Ivy Marie Clarke

During the weekend of Sept. 24-25, Downtown Duluth will host its annual Duluth Fall Festival. The very first Duluth festival goes back to 1962, and it was a fiveweek spring festival. It has evolved in the years since to what we’ve now come to know, love and celebrate nearly every year.

Between the annual 5K Road Race, parade, community worship service, full entertainment lineup and over 300 food, arts, crafts and sponsor booths, this festival is a lot of fun — and it requires a lot of planning! Planning for this two-day festival is a yearlong process to be exact. The festival’s successful run is accomplished again and again by a cohort numbering over 300 volunteers, making this festival the largest volunteer-run in the Southeast, among its numerous other recognitions. Continually bringing in upwards of 100,000 attendees, the festival’s success cannot be overlooked. Volunteers, festivalgoers and sponsors of the Duluth Fall Festival are united by their pride in their city. And, to the community that they love so much, they always give back. Over the years, more than $3 million in festival donations have gone to beautifying and improving Downtown Duluth. Projects have included building the Festival Center, acquiring and constructing an amazing entrance for Taylor Park and funding an Eastern Continental Divide monument, in addition to other landscaping, art objects and renovations throughout downtown. Are you a regular festivalgoer? A new Duluth resident? A longtime, proud citizen of this city? Read on to learn about this year’s festival.

Scan Our QR Code to visit the festival website for more information

Parade

The highly anticipated kick-off of the Duluth Fall Festival is the Festival Parade, beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24. With over 3000 participants, it is the largest in Gwinnett County — and one of the most exciting. Parade members will include musicians, classic cars, firetrucks, Boy and Girl Scouts, athletes, students, local government officials and church leaders, sponsors, businesses, clowns, entertainers, animals — oh my! Join the parade on Main Street, near Coleman Middle School. From there, it will march south through the streets of Downtown Duluth and end at Truist Bank on Buford Highway. After the parade, head on over to the Duluth Festival Center for the Opening Ceremony. There, sponsors will be recognized for their great contributions to the festival. Local dignitaries will also be honored, including the Parade Grand Marshal and Honorary Grand Marshal. This year’s Grand Marshal is Randy Belcher, recently retired police chief of Duluth and 2017 recipient of the Gwinnett Chamber Leadership Award for excellence in community-oriented engagement. Belcher has earned the parade’s honorable title on account of his impressive 46 years of service that included growing Gwinnett’s police department more than five times its original size when he joined the staff in 1984, recognition as the youngest serving Police Chief in Georgia, graduation from the prestigious FBI National Academy and his efforts towards various uplifting city programs and technological approaches to fighting crime. For parade details, contact Debbie Bush at debhokie73@gmail.com.

Randy

Belcher This year’s festival 5K road race will take off at 8 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 25. Check-in will occur on the Duluth Town Green 7 a.m.-7:40 a.m. Early arrivers will get to warm-up with their fellow racers Zumba-style! Beginning at 8 a.m., racers will walk or run through the streets of Downtown Duluth, finishing at the Duluth Festival Center. Registration will be available through the morning of the race, but will steadily increase in price after Sept. 15, so early registration is encouraged. Until Sept. 15, you can register for this race at duluthdonutdash5k.org for $30. Upon completing the race, you will not only receive personal satisfaction, a donut and coffee — provided by race sponsor Dunkin Donuts — and a commemorative long sleeved t-shirt, but also the goodwill of giving back to your community. Proceeds from the race will be given to Wellroot Family Services (wellroot.org), which

Duluth Donut Dash 5K Ready? Set… Do-nut!

assists children in foster care and families living in transitional housing and works to break cycles of trauma in young lives. Interested in racing? Want to know more? Reach out to Greg Whitlock at wgwhitlock1@gmail.com.

Worship on the Town Green

Ring in Sunday morning with a community of faith. At 10 a.m. on Sept. 25, Duluth First United Methodist Church’s members, musicians and staff will lead a community worship service on the Duluth Town Green. All are welcome to partake in this peaceful activity.

Food and Drink

Although the longtime festival-classic hot dog stand was retired last year, after 30 years of serving hungry festivalgoers, stomachs will still be happily filled with this year’s new and returning food vendors. Old favorites making a comeback include Aw Shucks’s corn — on and off the cob (awshucksroastedcorn.com), Bird’s Concession loaded up with snacks, Bonez & Gristles’ mouthwatering barbecue (facebook.com/ Bonezandgristles), authentic homemade ice cream from Country Cabin Sweets & Treats (facebook.com/countrycabinsweetsandtreats) and Sweet Chimney Bakery’s delectable Hungarian pastries (facebook.com/sweetchimneybakery). Mangos will also be available for a refreshing treat, or you can feast on jalapeño corn dogs to spice up your weekend. Take the opportunity to branch out, treat your palette and show some love to the new food vendors, too! Sip on nostalgia over at Old West Soda, dig into Island Jerk’s true Jamaican cuisine, offering vegan and gluten-free options as well as traditional dishes (facebook.com/islandjerkbrunswickga), and enjoy a crisp apple, courtesy of Jaemor Farms (jaemorfarms.com). This year, you’ll find the food court behind the Mathias building in the lower parking lot near the train tracks. Annette Mcintosh can be contacted for further food-related inquiries at a_mcintosh@bellsouth.net.

Entertainment

Over the festival weekend, over 20 acts will provide nonstop, high energy, local entertainment on two stages. Main Center Stage has a full weekend lineup planned with acts scheduled from noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Plan to enjoy rock, blues and jazz bands as well as Asian, Irish and Mexican dance groups both days, and make plans Sunday to kick off your afternoon with the returning, highly lauded Elvis. Acts are 45 minutes each, giving you plenty of time to learn about and fall in love with each of them. Head on over to Parsons Alley to jam out to rock, Irish and folk bands and duos. The stage will pulse from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Don’t miss special performances by a Korean act and a young group from the Phoenix School of Irish Arts! While stage performers raise the roofs of their respective venues, street performers and puppeteers will pop out all over festival grounds. Be sure to snap a picture with the festival’s scarecrow mascot — and tag us so we can see all the fun you’re having! Laura Godfrey, lauratgodfrey@gmail.com, is your go-to contact if you have questions regarding festival entertainment.

Elvis

Vendors

Over 160 vendors will participate in this year’s festival, selling handmade and hand-decorated products from home decor and jewelry to art and pastries. When you shop at the Duluth Fall Festival, you’re directly supporting artists and artisans. And with all the variety, you’re sure to find something you like! ■ The Polka Dotted Door: Darlene Bennett’s small home decor business specializes in hand-painted door signs and door hangers in all colors and designs that will make your house really feel like home. Visit etsy.com/ shop/Thepolkadotteddoor. ■ Uju-Lwami Creations: Dionne Cutting creates striking, lightweight jewelry out of polymer clay that brings wearers’ colorful personalities to the forefront of their outfits. Visit ujulwamicreations on Instagram. ▼ Withrow Woodworks A family-run business based out of Duluth makes beautiful, quality bowls out of handcrafted wood. Visit withrowwoodworks.com. ▲ Shweta’s Gourmet Chocolates: Baker Shweta Bajaj combines Belgian chocolate with unique ingredients like betel nut, tequila-infused mango, rose petals and edible gold to make mouth-watering morsels. Visit shwetasgourmetchocolates.com.

▲ Jodi Lynn Bows: A must-visit vendor for little girls with a big love for bows, Jodi Lynn Bows is especially popular among cheerleaders and gymnasts. Visit eventeny.com/company/?c=8104. ■ Francoise Lama-Solet: Françoise uses various techniques to make her dynamic wearable and contemporary artwork, including hand-printing, hand-dyeing and hand-painting on high quality materials, so all her pieces are one of a kind. Click on lama-solet.com to see examples of the art. Visit lama-solet.com.

▲ Dream by Day Design: Artist Tina Lawrence makes pottery, sculpture and fine art for home and commercial use. Natural elements, like birds and flowers, frequently appear as motifs in her work. Visit facebook.com/ dreambydaydesign. ▲ Britts Leather Co.: A small business co-owned by a husband-and-wife duo, Britts Leather makes sturdy leather goods like hats, belts, bags, wallets and journals. Visit brittsleatherco.com.

▲ 100%Cool Efi Designs LLC: Inga and Evija craft cool wallets, scarves and bags from upcycled fabrics. They aim to — and succeed in — spreading positivity through their wearable art. Visit etsy.com/shop/IngaAndEvija.

▲ Bella’s Elegant Designs: Pamper your pet with these luxury beds and pearl- and jewel-encrusted accessories. Visit bellaselegantdesigns.com. ▲ Abagail West Studio: The artist behind these creations doesn’t see trash — she sees art. She salvages discarded materials into functional artwork, lending her creativity to environmental justice efforts. Visit abigailwest.net. ▼YouNique Jewelry: Kristen Babay designs sparkling Swarovski crystal and pearl earrings, bracelets and necklaces to make you stand out at events. Visit youniquejewelrybykristen. com.

■ BTC Custom Designs: You name it and BTC Custom Designs can make it with their family-owned wood and metal manufacturing equipment! They offer a wide range of products including ornaments, wreaths and home decor. Visit btccustomdesigns.com.

Seeking further information on the shopping available at this year’s festival? Reach out to Beth Parmer at beth.parmer@me.com.

More Information

Find the official schedule of events, sponsors and more information about the mission of the Duluth Fall Festival at duluthfallfestival.org. Tag us in your posts for a chance to be featured on Southwest Gwinnett Magazine’s social media platforms. Happy festival-going! Scan Our QR Code to find more information about the festival