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Tastemaker Magazine Volume I No. 4
t’s the last month of 2011 and all the world is abuzz with new resolutions and anticipation for what’s to come in 2012. Many times, however, we are so consumed with the thought of the beginning of the New Year that we forget to focus on the ending of the current one! Is there something that you’ve been meaning to do all year but never got around to it? Is there a short-term goal you can reach by December 31 that would make your world better? Are there unresolved issues that would make the entry into a new year more joyous if you could bring them to the close?
December 2011
EDITORIAL FOUNDER & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Ti f f i ni Gat lin
EDITOR- IN- CHIEF
Alisha L. Gordon
FASHION EDITOR
Deena Poythress STYLE CONTRIBUTORS
Denise Bussey, Sharra Speer LIFESTYLE EDITOR
Andrea Janise LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTORS
As we end a year of triumphs, failures, victories, strange occurrences, and brilliant discoveries, relish in the opportunities left in 2011. Breathe some coffee-laden breath into an old project, an old friendship, or even an old dream that’s collected dust the latter half of the year.
Erika Ward, Erin Kasari, Kristin Fuller BEAUTY EDITOR
BEAUTY CONTRIBUTORS
Carmen Blakely, Kelli Flournoy FEATURES EDITOR
Here’s to the end of a year with everything it intended to be coming to a close – completely!
FEATURES CONTRIBUTORS Aisha Stith, Christina Mapp, Dave White Jr. COPY EDITOR
Aquila Butler PHOTOGRAPHERS
Chanda Scott, Walter Kennard, Carl Semien, Jael Hardin VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT www.tastemakermag.com December 2011
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NEED TO SEND A LETTER TO THE EDITOR? agordon@tastemakermag.com
SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION Subscribe Now
Editor-in-Chief, Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine
Tweet Me @dstarwriter59 Email Me agordon@tastemakermag.com
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CONTENTS December 2011
BEAUTY/HEALTH 15
Winter Skin Care
16
Haute Holiday Hair
18
Hair Accessories that Pop
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Hair Review
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Body and Soul
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Hot Scents and Polish Picks
FASHION 25 Holiday Hommes 26 Holiday dresses & Booties 28 Popcorn & Pearls
for Kids
FEATURES Cover Shot by Walter Kennard
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Makeup artists provided by NRX studios Shoot Location: Natural Radiance Loft This Page: L-R James Andrews, Caleb Spivak, Maeling Tapp, Dayka Robinson
cov er story
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Social Media Influencers
36 Buckhead’s newest neighbor 37
Stress Relievers December 2011
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CONTENTS Follow Tastemaker Mag on Twitter @tastemakermag
Join the conversation daily at ...
Tastemakermag.com 50
Fabulous, Modern, Chic! Disney’s Aulani Resort
ARTS & CULTURE
From beauty, social happenings, and a healthy dose of celebrity updates, we keep you tastefully in the know with one simple click.
38 Arts around Atlanta
ATLANTA LIVING 44
12 Days of Christmas Gift Guide
46 Spicing It Up! 48
Luxury Lodging
56 Anatomy of a Toddy 58 Table Settings Redefined 62 Design Your Dream Wedding 66 Do you need a food coach?
IN EVERY ISSUE
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Bloomingdales Welcomes a new kids collection December 2011
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3 Editor’s Note 8 Director Memo 10 Contributors 68 Press Pass
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Editor’s Note
Out With the Old... and In With the New!
Can you believe that we have reached the end of the year? Let me first start by saying Happy Holidays to you and your family from mine. I don’t know about you, but this year has been an amazing year for me and knowing that I may be granted another year to discover my unlimited possibilities, makes me excited! All of Tastemaeker’s amazing writers, photographers, editors and even you have made this a journey worth taking. The relationships I have forged, along with the priceless partnerships I’ve entered, show promise of longevity. We all remember the old adage “out with the old, in with the new”, but my interpretation is not to forget the year that has passed (the old) but to take every experience, every meeting and build on top of whatever foundation (the new) that has been set for you. Take this month and enjoy a trip down memory lane, then set new goals that support your dreams and ambitions. Here’s to amazing opportunities and unlimited possibilities! I look forward to sharing with you again in 2012! T.Gatlin,Founder
@theatlgo2girl email me: editor@tastemakermag.com
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Contributors Erin Kasari Lifestyle Contributor @vlalife www.vivalalife.com Erin Kasari is an Atlanta-Based Lifestyle writer covering travel, food, and anything else that makes for a fun and well-lived life. Nekessa Smith Beauty Contributor @officialnekessa www.nekesasnaturalradiance.com
Jemimah “Mimi” Scarlet Beauty Contributor @glossymimi www.lipglossandbinky.com Mimi, a Washington D.C. native, exited the rat race of Corporate America in pursuit of fashion, travel, beauty, and the written word. Mimi lives in Atlanta with her husband and children.
Nekessa Smith is a multi-talented natural hair care professional and owner of Natural Radiance. She currently studies film at Spelman College and lives in Atlanta with her husband and children.
Erika Ward Interior & Life Design Contributor @erikaatblulabel www.blulabelbungalow.com
Dave D. White Jr. Feature Contributor @Mr2Pens
Erika Ward is an Atlanta based interior designer who is inspired by fashion and believes that we should look to our wardrobe for inspiration in styling our
Dave D. White Jr. is a graduate of Morehouse College, from Mobile, AL. When he’s not writing, he participates in Mixed Martial Arts
homes.
and volunteers in the community.
Andrea Janise Lifestyle Editor @atlfoodwriter www.foodsessions.com Kelli Flournoy Fashion Contributor @kelliflournoypr Kelli Flournoy has held the title of fashion stylist, publicist and most recently President of Belle&Grace. The self-proclaimed renaissance woman enjoys reading, shopping and mentoring young girls. December 2011
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Andrea Janise is a food and lifestyle journalist living in Atlanta. A graduate of Spelman College, this self-proclaimed “foodie” has written for numerous publications and loves dining out and traveling around the world.
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ATLANTA
Press
Pass The Event: The 6th annual Aqua Vino event held on October 13, was a toast to science and research, with over 200 fine wines from around the world, gourmet food from the city’s best chef ’s and an entire ballroom floor filled with sweet morsels from some of Atlanta’s hottest sweet spots including Highland Bakery and High Road Craft. The Venue: The event took place amongst gentle giants at the Georgia Aquarium.
Photography By: Chanda Scott Get More Pictures Here
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BEAUTY Let’s Get Skintimate Beauty Contributor Carmen Blakely shares her secrets to winterizing your skin.
photo credit:inspirationalmakeup.blogspot.com
Winter weather can wreak havoc on the largest organ of the body— the skin. However, with the appropriate products and protection from the elements, you can get through winter unscathed. Murad’s Hydro-dynamic Cream can restore the skin overnight with ingredients such as Shea butter and vitamin A. In the winter months, heating your home also zaps moisture from the skin but you can counteract this with a humidifier. Love the skin you’re in! Follow these easy tips to give your skin a warm glow even when it snows! Check out a few of products I love:
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1. Shiseido’s Benefiance’s milky cleanser keeps skin radiant during frigid temperatures. 2. For mature, extremely dry skin try oil based serums such as Juno Transformative Lipid Serum. $125.00 3. 3. Your eyes are the most delicate area on your face, and would benefit from a rich eye cream like Dr. Brandt’s R3P loaded with peptides and vitamins A, C and E. December 2011
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Beauty/ Holiday Hair
Beauty/ Holiday Hair
Haute Holiday Hair
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Natural Curls
Achieving bounciful curls with all natural tresses is possible! To achieve this look the hair is pressed out with a flat iron and curled in big barrel curls.
Ready or not “hair” we go with the hustle and bustle of the holidays. With your schedule full of parties and office shin-digs, putting the spotlight on your hair has never been more important. Stylist Nicole Hamm-Langley of Bella Salon in Austell, GA shows us 3 classic looks that you can re-invent just in time for the holidays!
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The Inverted Bob
Classic inverted bob with cognac highlights can be tailored to suit your face. This is one classic cut that will never go out of style.
Bella Salon’s Owner
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Pixie Cut
You can’t go wrong with a trendy pixie cut with golden brown base color and golden blonde highlights. Whether your style is ultra conservative or living on the edge, this style can be worn by any woman. Bella Salon 2995 Bankhead Hwy Austell, GA 30168 678-324-8592
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Hair Accessories That POP << Love this braided multi-colored headband. Whether your hair is long or short it’s a great piece that’s fun and pulls your look together; $10
June Ambrose and Chrisette Michele show off stylish turbans.
^ We love how June Ambrose whips up a fanciful turban so when we found this extra wide silver turban with a vintage styled brooch we swooned! $22
Feathers are a big hit this season
and now you can have fun with >> clipping feathers full of color and texture in our hair for a playful night out on the town. << A twist on the edgy ear lace trend, try the ear hook and embellished hair comb for a youthful and fun combo. $40 click to buy!
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This rhinestone hair comb is the perfect accessory for a side sweep or a loose tousled bun. $13
Add some sunshine to your life on a cold, and dreary morning with this polka dot stretch headband that screams I’m living
Aren’t these mini bow clips the cutest? Gather your hair up on the side and choose your favorite clip or add to a tweeny weeny Afro for added definition and POP! $5
Double the fun with this Swarovski stones and pearls headband. December 2011
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Is a e re th e h t e in ? rs use u n ho
Hair In Review: Huetiful Hair Steamer The winter months can wreak havoc on your hair and after spending more time indoors with the dry heat blasting, your hair can quickly lose its moisture. We spend tons of money on products to help our hair stay moisturized and while some products work better than others, I’ve found something that makes your best conditioner work five times better: the Huetiful Hair Steamer! The Huetiful Hair Steamer is a 3-part hooded steamer that is easy to assemble and provides 20 minutes of steam with only 12 ounces of water. After washing your hair, slather on your favorite conditioner and sit under the steamer sans shower cap. When the buzzer sounds, rinse your hair with cool water (to seal in the conditioner) and style as usual. If you want to get an even deeper treatment, refill the cup with more water and go for a second round! If you’ve ever visited a salon to get a steam treatment, you know that the steaming alone can add $50-$75 to your total! Couple that with the cost of your favorite products, you could spend hundreds of dollars trying to recreate the same affects of the Huetiful Hair Steamer! The hair steamer does the job for just over a $100 bucks – and it’s yours to keep – no more weekly visits to the salon for steaming treatments! During the winter months, our tresses can take a beating, the dry air, wool hats, fuzzy sweaters, and a host of other moisture zapping culprits. Using the Huetiful Hair Steamer can restore all that’s lost every week in a matter of minutes! So this winter, don’t let just your cocoa be the only thing blowing off steam! Get your head under a Huetiful Hair Steamer and restore the moisture! --By Alisha L. Gordon December 2011
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You’re strolling along when all of a sudden it happens. Your heart begins to palpitate, as you feel the sweat accumulate on your forehead. It couldn't be happening! You practically bathed in the hydrocortisone cream (like the internet said), and you even took that penicillin you borrowed from your friend! You desperately bolt into the nearest restroom, pull down what feels like wool underwear, and then....you....SCRATCH! Does this sound like you, or your friends (they did lend you that bottle of penicillin, didn’t they?) While this old game of scratch and sniff may provide nostalgia for some, the possibility that you have contracted a sexually transmitted disease is highly probable for most. An STD is transferred during vaginal, oral, or anal sex, and affects men and women from of all backgrounds and economic levels, adding an estimated $14.7 billion to the nation's health costs. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) report 19 million new infections each year in the U.S., and almost half of those cases occur among ages 15 to 24. Some symptoms of these STDs may manifest, while others may occur silently; however, the most common signs include itching, burning with urination, pain with intercourse, and or a discharge.
SYMPTOM
Occasionally, some men will present in the emergency room with symptoms of an irritation inside his penis, burning with urination or ejaculation, and or a mild
discharge. Although men can only contract this STD from an infected woman, women, on the other hand, can acquire the infection from an infected man or woman. Unfortunately, many people who contract this, or any other, curable STD come into the emergency room or clinics without his or her partner. As medical professionals, although we commend patients for getting treatment, we still encourage patients to open dialogue with their partners .
KNOW YOUR STATUS While an appointment with your
medical doctor or a trip to the free clinic in your neighborhood is ideal, you may also visit the emergency room. However, be prepared to wait, due to their fluctuating acuity levels. A female patient will usually be examined by pelvic exam; on the contrary, for men only the meatus, or the opening, of the penis is swabbed. Samples are taken from any observed discharge and sent to the lab for testing. Depending on the doctor, some may treat patients based on their description of their symptoms, alone. Furthermore, some physicians may treat patients prophylactically, due to the fact that their partners have been exposed. Therefore, you don’t need to wait on an itch to start getting treated!
HEALING
Get your prescription filled at any neighborhood pharmacy. Finish out your antibiotics, even if your symptoms disappear, or the treatment will not work. In addition, wait one week after you (and your partner) have completed your treatment before intercourse. Furthermore, the next time you feel an undesirable need to itch....get tested and see if it’s an itch that can be scratched out! -By Christina Mapp December 2011
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POLISH POWER
Fragrances That Make Scents It’s that time of year again when we start to consider resolutions and reinvention. While our resolutions may be long term and require extensive thought, our reinvention doesn’t have to be -- we can change into a new you one beauty product at a time! With endless parties and all around good cheer, the holidays are the perfect time to try products that will reflect your mood and brighten your days and nights.
1. Essie’s Trophy Wife is a gorgeous deep teal with just enough color to be noticed but not enough to compete with your ensemble. Whereto: Dinner with friends; sure to compliment your glass of wine…red or white. $8
2. Zoya The putty hue works great as an everyday look. Whereto: The office…pretty, nude nails will help make the workday fly by. $8
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3. NARS Red is a classic color appropriate for any season! Turn it up a notch for winter and go deeper with Rouge Andalou by NARS. Whereto: Perfect for Date Night…it will drive him wild!
1. Tom Ford One of the most highly anticipated fragrances of the season, Violet Blonde was created by blending notes of Italian Mandarin, Baie Rose and Tuscan Orris Absolute. A complete indulgence in everyday glamour.
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$17
Prada Candy; $108
4. For understated edge, try Chanel’s Graphite. A gunmetal grey infused with small gold flakes. Whereto: Holiday soiree…ring in the New Year with a bang! $25 5. Illamasqua: Baptiste If making a statement is your intention, Baptiste is your solution! The bold and vibrant royal purple nail varnish is definitely a show-stopper. Whereto: Girls night out: give them something to talk about! $14
Bottega Veneta; $95
2. Euphoria by Calvin Klein A classic yet tantalizing fragrance comprised of exotic fruits and seductive black orchid…leaves the skin with an intoxicating warmth perfect for cold winter nights.
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This color is a winner!
3. Prada Candy The newest fragrance to the Prada family, Prada Candy is bold, flirty and as the name suggest, a little fruity with notes of caramel and vanilla.
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4. Bottega Veneta Modern and sleek best describe with a hint of Plum, pink pepper and sambac jasmine, this fragrances’ floral notes add an unexpected depth to a light winter scent.
Don’t you love this sexy color?
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5. Diane von Furstenberg presents her eponymous scent with notes of patchouli, frangipani and musk. A unique blend designed to envelope a woman’s body in ladylike luxury.
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Diane by Diane Von Furstenberg; $85
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Euphoria by Calvin Klein; $78
Tom Ford’s Blonde $100
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Who knew grey, mauve and purple could make such a fab combo! <3
Follow Kelli Flournoy for more Beauty tips @KELLIFLOURNOYPR
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FASHION
FASHION/ Menswear
Eternity Cable Knit Scarf $175 ; Barney’s NY
Little Drummer Boy
Holiday Hommes Go “purposefully messy” this season with chunky sweaters, newsboy caps, fun plaid ties, and eternity scarves; this will give your outfit a bit of individual finesse. Fret not my yuletide carolers— I’ve got some tips that’ll leave you spiffy and spirited! Women usually have all the fun getting jazzed up for visits and festivities, but let’s hear it for the boys! --Denise Bussey Eugenia Kim Jimmy Driving Cap $175; Barney’s NY
Children Styles | Holiday Dresses| Booties TWEET OR EMAIL FASHION EDITOR DEENA POYTHRESS @DEENAPOYTHRESS OR dpoythress@tastemakermag.com December 2011
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Green Suede Chukka Boot $89.90; Sperry
Follow Denise Bussey for more Fashion tips @LILBROWND
Lambs wool shawl-collar $88; J. Crew
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Fun & Flirty Holiday Dresses
Cutie Booties Must have booties of the season!
Our pick of dresses that will instantly give you the WOW factor at your next holiday party.
Jacquard and Crepe
Giambattista for Impulse only at Macy’s combines fun and sexy prints: $109
Be in the spotlight in this golden Samantha Sequin Dress from French Connection; $298 December 2011
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Live life on the “wedge” in these Jill Sander suede booties ; $451 Giambattista for Impulse Be conservative yet sexy with this twill only at Macy’s this dress Asymmetric tartan dress: $505 will have you dancing all night;$99
It’s velvet and with a splash of orange, we love it! ; $850
Be the life of the party and break the ice in this feather embellished satin bustier dress; $330
How Lucky would you be in these Lucky Brand Tanner Lace- Up Ankle booties; $179
We love the sole on these booties by Kurt Geiger London. $320
Head into the office in these grey and patent leather shoe booties from YSL, you’ll be the talk around the watercooler; $901
Take a walk on the wild side with these Jeffrey Campbell animal print ankle booties; $305
It’s the Lita! The hottest shoe of the season is here. Add some color in your life with these color blocking platform booties by Jeffrey Campbell; $160
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Popcorn & Pearls
Bloomingdales newest children’s collection “pops” in just in time for the holidays!
The Pearls and Popcorn collection is the new kid on the block taking Bloomingdales’ by storm with its whimsical European collection at accessible prices. Sizes range from 3 months and 3T.
<<Your little girl will look precious in this plaid flannel with fun front pockets and holiday colors
^ Your little mini will be stunning in this cream eye hook back sweater dress with popcorn puffs adorning the hem.
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Keep your guy warm in this shawl neck chunky zip front sweater cardigan>>
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Social Media
Influencers of Atlanta
By Tiffini Gatlin | Photography By Walter Kennard
Nowadays it’s not about what you say it’s about how you say it —in 140 characters or less. The use of social media has become the way people, major brands and even news outlets communicate breaking news, intimate details, gossip and more. For some, it’s a race to see how many followers and friends you can attract, for others the use of Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and the likes is a means to quickly communicate and interact with current and potential clients. Last week, Facebook announced that the social platform will be making its stock market debut in 2012, which could value the company at more than $100 billion, which shows interest in people wanting to stay connected at their fingertips. We wanted to find out the secret to building an empire using social mediums like Twitter and Facebook, so we sought after four of Atlanta’s social media influencers, to get some of their secrets on using these tools to stay connected and engaged with their audience. Caleb Spivak of What Now Atlanta, Maeling Tapp of Natural Chica, James Andrews of Social People and Dayka Robinson of Dayka Robinson Designs potentially reaches and shapes the opinions and decisions of 37,000 people combined daily, and that’s just on Twitter. How do they attract such large followings and what do they think about being influencers of the ‘sphere?
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What Now Atlanta Owner Caleb Spivak struggled with accepting the title “Social Influencer.” “I don’t think there is a such think as a social media influencer, I think people are influencers and they get on social media. If you’re a Tastemaker, you find another outlet for tastemaking and those outlets are social properties like Facebook, Twitter etc.” says Spivak. Spivak’s site focuses on breaking timely news in Atlanta’s restaurant, retail and real estate arenas. James Andrews is no stranger to the social media phenomenon, as he travels the world speaking on how to effectively use these tools that keep us all connected. He’s known for getting celebrities like Jane Fonda on the social track, but he notes that it’s important to understand what social media really is. “Social Media is media. Media is not going to progress, it’s only going to evolve as it always has. The T.V. viewing experience we’re already watching is changing and ever evolving. It’s a lean in, lean back experience where people are engaging with audiences and building communities, so that’s going to change,” says Andrews. Maeling Tapp credits her social media rise and folllowership to listening to the people. “I don’t try to be anyone else but me. I listen to what my followers want and then I do that.” Her method obviously works as she entertains 45,000 Facebook fans with her self produced beauty videos. Let’s take a closer look at each of our “Influencers”. >>
Left to Right: Caleb Spivak, Maeling Tapp, Dayka Robinson and James Andrews December 2011
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Former VP at Ketchum Digital, 42-year-old UCLA grad James Andrews is the owner of Social People, a hybrid agency that integrates Marketing, PR, Advertising and Content Development. He also launched a celebrity representation division, Famous PPL, which manages digital and social media assets on behalf of clients such as Jane Fonda and Jermaine Dupri. With his company’s support of the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards, his countless panels and expert talks with CNN, his leadership position with GCAPP and his ability to seek unlimited possibilities make him a Social Media Influencer to follow.
She’s the complete package! Hailing from College Park, Maryland, 25 year- old Maeling Janelle Nicole Tapp is a graduate of the University of Maryland College Park and is a Candidate for her Ph.D. at Georgia Institute of Technology. She clearly has the brains and she doesn’t mind teaching you the basics of beauty. She influences over 60,000 people on a daily basis with her infamous how-to you tube videos, tweets, Facebook updates and social gatherings. Her humble personality and enthusiasm for wanting to share her life’s experiences with the world, make her relatable and our pick for the hottest social media influencer to follow!
Fun Facts:
Why are you attracted to social media ?
Social people focuses on socializing products, people and ideas. The name social people is a bit of a play on today’s social media environment and the nature of how marketing, content, PR and customer service is evolving due to people powered technologies.
Blackberry or iPhone? iPhone without question. I’ve been doing with Blackberry since about ‘97. Biggest accomplishment to date? Married 18 years and I have a beautiful wife and two great kids. I have built a great agency over the last 3 years and now operate in two locations, Atlanta and Los Angeles. I work with some of the most creative and talented digital communication strategists in the business. We recently launched an internship program at Spelman College, where we are annually going to groom two Spelman women into digital communication strategists. @keyinfluencer | www.socialpeople.tv
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Fun Facts:
How did you come up with the name of your blog?
Combining the “natural” aspect of my natural hair topic and “chica” , a term I use with my girl friends.
Why do you feel (or do you feel) your blog influences the decisions of others?
I have a sincere passion for helping others, and my readers know they can trust the information I share.
Chops Lobster Bar or Chipolte? Chipotle!!
Why are you attracted to social media?
It’s a great tool for networking and interacting with my target audience.
Mac or PC? Mac! I’m such and Apple girl, well except for the phone...lol! @naturalchica | www.naturalchica.com December 2011
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22 year-old Caleb Spivak is young, energetic, and on the path to being at the top of his game. He’s your favorite publicist favorite publicist—or worst enemy. He gets a natural high off of dishing on restaurant, retail and real estate openings and closings in Atlanta, beating some of the best Public Relation Professionals to the punch on delivering their clients news. He doesn’t make any apologies for keeping it “real” with the readers who love his charismatic approach to dishing hard facts. He has the uncommon ability to juggle several things away. He’s pursuing his journalism degree at Georgia State University, holding down his day job and somehow manages to research information to support his claims. If I were in the gambling business, we’d place bets on Caleb. He’s the one to follow in 2012.
Fun Facts:
Fun Facts:
Social media is attractive because it allows me to showcase who I am (identity), build relationships (connections), provide a sense of belonging (community) and results in instant gratification.
Cofounding my non-profit, Room Service Atlanta, which partners with Atlanta designers to redesign area shelters. It’s a labor of love!
Why are you attracted to social media?
If you could live somewhere other than Atlanta, where would it be? Always in an empire state of mind--The Big Apple, baby!
What is the difference between a journalist and a blogger? A journalist gets paid.
What’s the best perk you’ve received by being a social media influencer? All of the ass-kissing. Muah!
Biggest accomplishment to date.
Launching WhatNowAtlanta.com, for sure. The readership and community the site has created in less than two years is a gratifyingly humble experience. Here’s to you, readers! @whatnowatlanta| www.whatnowatlanta.com December 2011
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She’s the refurbishing diva, turning old eyesores back to beautifully restored works of art. This 32 year-old California native completed her BA in Sociology from Spelman College and dabbled in several creative field before realizing her true dream was to beautify interior spaces. Among the few African American interior design bloggers, Dayka inspires people to become creative and live with what they love. Dayka’s blog Life + Meditations gives her social followers the opportunity to express themselves through, color, textures and vision boards that Dayka shares as additional creative inspiration. Dayka also expanded her love for design into the community with her non profit organization Room Service Atlanta, of which she cofounded and has helped families make the transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency. We can’t wait to see what she’ll do in 2012! Biggest accomplishment to date.
Most embarrassing digital moment?
I’ve been lucky enough not to have one so far (*knocking on wood*). But you do have to be VERY careful when DM’ing vs. tweeting. If you’re sending a DM you really don’t want other eyes to see, I recommend an email or text instead.
Stilettos or flats?
When I’m toting fabric & tile on 12 hour work days, it’s flats. When it’s time for an event, stilettos all the way!
Why are you attracted to social media?
Twitter has been great for connecting with other designers, local brands and clients. Blogging is great because it gives me an outlet to share more about myself, my business & my life with potential clients. If you’re not using social media, you’re probably missing out on something huge. @daykarobinson | www.meditationsonlifeandstyle.blogspot.com December 2011
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Stress Relievers D’lor Salon and Spa is Atlanta’s best kept secret! Nestled in a quaint location in Southwest Atlanta away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the spa offers busy professionals an opportunity to relax and indulge in holistic balanced body treatments as well as grooming services for men and women. With membership definitely comes benefits and we love their new wellness and beauty membership program that gives you a full hour long massage or hydrating facial along with product and service discounts ranging from 10-15 percent, for only $59 a month. It’s the perfect way to beat the stress before it beats you! D’lor Salon and Spa 1189 Fairburn Road, SW, Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30331 (404) 344-1622
Dr. Ray Morgan, Jr. DMD
Dental Concierge
Buckhead’s newest neighbor has a knack for making people smile
Think about your last dental exam. Were you gushing with excitement in preparation for your filling, cleaning or teeth whitening? Chances are, probably not. You may find it surprising that Buckhead’s newest dental office, The Art of Cosmetic Dentistry, is making people smile their business. Dr. Ray Morgan, Jr. DMD has spent the past 25 years connecting with his clients and understanding their needs. His office, which looks more like a contemporary lounge, focuses on offering clients a first class visit, rather than routine check up. When you schedule your appointment you can also arrange to have your car washed, salon and spa services scheduled afterwards at William David Salon, lunch delivered as well as appointments when you need them most–your lunch hour. While getting your cosmetic work or general dental services, you may fight to stay awake as you get cozy under the warming blankets while listening to your favorite tunes on Bose headphones. One thing is for sure when you wake up you’ll have a beautiful smile. “All the models we use in our ads are our actual patients, we don’t do any photo enhancements on our patients teeth in pictures,” says Dr. Morgan. Oh, and this is one place you’ll want to get glammed up because after your services you’ll have an opportunity to get your picture taken! 3333 Piedmont Road, Terminus 200, Suite 130 www.RayMorganDMD.com December 2011
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Aromatherapy
Be Relaxed. Be Renewed, Be Romantic, Be Khreativ. is the motto for Virginia based company Khreative Soy Kandles. The motto couldn’t be more fitting as the aroma from the handmade, all natural, pure soy wax candle fills a room without the lighting of its wick. We’ve tested seven of Khreative Kandles products and we not only love how the candles burn down evenly, but how the candle can double for a skin moisturizer when melted because the company uses soybeans and essential oil blends that are safe for the skin. At $10-$22 the product makes for the perfect stocking stuffer. The beautifully, decorated casing shows that the creators spared no expense at making you feel like the product was made specifically for you. Tip: If you leave the candle unlit in a room and close the door your candle will illuminate the room. www.KreativeSoyKandles.com
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+ Finding Justice
ART &CULTURE
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art & Culture|Joetavius Stafford
Things We’re Discussing
Around Atlanta 2. Alicia Keys’ presents Broadway play Stick Fly, written by Lydia R. Diamond. The play tells the story of a funny yet possibly familiar family with twist and turns at every corner. Atlanta musician, songwriter and director Kenny Leon directed yet another hit!
1. It’s a Winter Wonderland at the Fernbank Museum. You don’t want to miss this celebration of traditions from around the world. Your family will enjoy beautifully decorated trees, festival of lights, and beautiful art!
3. Atlanta’s favorite 90’s R&B/Pop girl group TLC, have signed on to consult and produce a biopic film to be made by VH1. The scripted film penned by screenwriter Kate Lanier will be based on the evolution of influential female hip hop musicians. Chilli said in a press release “I always felt our story had to be told.” Well alright, we’ll be watching!
5. What happened to all the good book fairs? Remember in grade school you would bring home your wish list of books for your schools fair? Southwest Arts Center (SWAC) will host a Book Fair on Saturday December 10, 2011 from 10am-3pm. 4. Atlanta’s Woodfire Grill is partnering with chef and author Come browse, purchase and meet the authors. Readings will Mourad Lahlou December 12, be scheduled throughout the 2011 for a dinner to celebrate his new cookbook Mourad: New day. Food Trucks will also be apart of the added attractions. Moroccan. Dinner will feature passed hors d’oeuvre followed by www.fultonarts.org four courses and a small taste. Yum! Click here to attend.
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Joetavius Stafford
Where’s Waldo: Finding Justice For Minorities BY DAVE WHITE December 2011
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On the night of October 15, 2011, 19-year-old Joetavius Stafford was shot and killed by a by Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) Officer Robert Waldo. Few witnesses have been identified in the shooting death of Stafford and, while Stafford’s brother witnessed the entire incident, the testimony of a family members are given very little consideration in these types of cases. A series of events occurred that lead up to the shooting death; the media coined Stafford as the “alleged gunman” after he was suspected of firing a gun in the air during a scuffle at the Vine City Marta Station. Officer Waldo identified Stafford with a drawn gun, and subsequently shot him 3 times at an undetermined range. As of press time, Officer Waldo is on suspension with pay. Joetavius Stafford, however, has spent the better half of the last month in a cold grave. Although many say that Officer Waldo was simply doing his job, there are several flaws in the story. MARTA spokespersons insist that Stafford had a weapon however no witness to confirm the officers statements nor was a weapon recovered from the scene. The story of Joetavius Stafford is a familiar one. An officer, often times white, shoots and kills young Black males before determining if deadly force was even required -- these stories illustrate a systematic assault on bodies of color. Oscar Grant, another victim of the “shoot first, ask questions later” mentality is another inductee into this historically Black co-ed fraternity comprised of recipients subjected to unapologetic police brutality. Grant was shot in the back execution style by Bay Area Rapid Transit officer Johannes Mehersle following a New Year’s celebration in 2009. Other notable members of this ever growing “fraternity” include Sean Bell, Amadou Diallo, Johnny Gammage, Emmitt Till, Kathryn Johnston, and Aiyana Jones. News of officers shooting minorities in the line of duty has become the norm. Bodies of color have lost value in the eyes of this society that has become fixated on fame and money. Continual exposure to police brutality begins to desensitize citizens, engendering a sense of apathy and helplessness. The outcry of the local community has been very minimal in these cases, however. Hardly ever do you hear of organized demonstrations denouncing acts of police brutality, usually candlelight vigils are held to remember the victim. The affected populations often depend on state and local judicial systems to be their voice in police brutality cases. After examining some numbers one might wonder why communities rely so heavily on the judicial system. In 2009, 33 percent of officers charged with police brutality were convicted, 64 percent received a prison sentence and the average sentence was about 14 months. Where does Georgia stand statistically? Georgia has one of the worst conviction rates for law enforcement in the nation tied with Colorado at 19 percent yet ranks 29th for overall police misconduct reports. The officers involved in brutality cases like Stafford’s and Grant’s seldom possess a four-year degree. Officer Waldo attended Brewton-Parker College in Southeast Georgia for two years before enlisting in the US Marines for four years then joining MARTA as a law enforcement officer. December 2011
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art & Culture
Officer Robert Waldo
One might ask why education matters in police brutality cases; well let us explore the requirements for employment: In order to become a lawyer and interpret the law one must possess at minimum a bachelors degree, law degree, and you must pass the Bar Exam. However to enforce the law the requirements are less demanding. MARTA’s minimum officer employment requirements are: must be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen and a high school diploma or equivalent. Unlike officers of yesterday who learned by trial and error, today’s officer must attend an intensive six to nine month training academy depending on jurisdiction. Many may argue that a six to nine month training is not enough to allow an officer to function as judge, jury, and executioner however, for many officers it is all that has been required. Officers nationwide carry a service pistol and are considered expert witnesses in court but how can we be sure they are ready? Can six to nine months in an academy effectively erase the biases and bad habits that each recruit may possess after living 21 years of everyday life? The FBI defines a bias crime, as any criminal offense committed against a person, property, or society that is motivated, in whole or in part, by the offender’s bias against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or ethnicity/national origin. The definition for bias crime may seem very broad yet it seems to highlight factors associated with the myriad of police brutality cases we read about daily. According to the FBI’s most recent bias or “hate” crime statistics, 58.6 percent of offenders are white and 70 percent of victims are black. These statistics are frightening because they illustrate a systematic assault on bodies of color. People of color have constantly endured hateful gestures, remarks, and discrimination, almost as if these variables are intrinsic benefits of having a darker hue. Police brutalities fueled by these biases are nothing more than hate crimes and should be legally recognized as such. Citizens must hold the law enforcement officers accountable for their actions or else they will continue to wage a civil war on American citizens. Where is Robert Waldo, a free man living his normal life with very little added stress while Stafford has been dead for well over two month. Officers like Waldo should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, just as any other citizen would be if they were accused of murder. Sadly, if it is determined that Stafford was indeed unarmed the shooting could still be determined to be a lawful one as long as Waldo truly believed that Stafford possessed a weapon. A human life has been lost the public outcry has been minimal and Waldo is…where?
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ATLANTA LIVING
TRAVEL| FOOD| ENTERTAINMENT TWEET or EMAIL LIFESTYLE EDITOR ANDREA JANISE @ATLFOODWRITER OR ajanise@tastemakermag.com December 2011
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12
12 Days of Christmas Gift Giving GUIDE
6. You’ll “toast to that” and this with the perfect gift set of six Cabernet ‘O’ tumblers plus a Cabernet Decanter. An innovative take on the wine tumbler, this glass series has something missing; there is no stem or base! Wrap up this gift of sophistication and elegance for just under $80. Reidel “O” Giftset, www.wine.com
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7. For seven years of good luck, give the Harry Potter fan in your life this Harry Potter: Years 1-7 Part Gift Set on Blue Ray. $69, www.blu-ray.com
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8. It’s Eight O’Clock Christmas morning, help dad find his grind with this perfect-blend hazelnut coffee. Eight O’Clock Coffee, Whole Bean Hazelnut, 11 oz., $6.99, www.eightoclock.com
10 1. Make someone’s holiday even sweeter by gifting these delectable handcrafted, fair trade goodies from Atlanta’s own artisanal chocolate shop, Sugar Coated Radical. $20 for 1/4 lb. box www.sugarcoatedradical.org
9. In a rush to the company gift exchange party? Get off at Exit 9 and pick up something for almost anyone. From candles to games to housewares this is your one-stop shop. Economically priced under $85. www.shopexit9.com
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2. Deck both arms with this black and silver beaded bracelet by Bella Royalty. All studded bracelet, $150, www.epicimageconsulting.com 3. Go ahead; give three cheers this holiday season when you sip hot cocoa by the fireplace in a made-to-order mug. Custom silhouette mugs, Brooklyn Rehab, $65 for a set of 2; www.brooklynrehabny.com 4. Link up with an old flame or a welldeserving BFF this year when you give this glammed-up version of a classic metal-chain bracelet. They can clasp one on for a dose of taste, day or night. Swarvoski crystals and gold plate, Sequin, $89; 212-368-7363
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5. Light up the night in 5-4-3-2-1 with these mini-skull candles. Set of 5, $40, Modern Alchemy, www.burkedecor. com December 2011
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10. Stuff your chocolate-lover’s stocking with Courtney Paul Chocolates set of 10 delectable chocolate bars. 10 Bar Gift Set, $95, www.courtneypaulchocolates.com 11. Say “come home for Christmas” with wallpaper-by-numbers. This creative wallpaper comes complete with markers so you can customize your surroundings. Assorted patterns. (pictured: Gerbera Daisy, $120) www.2jane.com
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12. Get your head into the clouds with 12 Cloud 9 Cupcakes. These cupcakes redefine yummy in flavors like Pina Colada, Cookies and Cream, Peanut Butter Cup, or Banana Pudding (to name a few). One dozen, $30 (half-dozen, $16.50) Cloud 9 Cupcakes, Lenox Square Food Court, Atlanta, 404-869-1099
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What flavors distinguish Kerala cuisine from other kinds of Indian food? It’s such a different cuisine. When you say Indian food, people traditionally think tandoori chicken, naan, palak paneer, etc. I don’t have any of those classic dishes that people typically associate with Indian food [on the menu]. The part of India that I’m from is very tropical, so there’s also an abundance of vegetables and fruits. The staple crops are rice and coconut. These two ingredients are used in practically every dish. We use rice to make our breads, which means it’s gluten-free. What are the signature dishes that will be featured at Cardamom Hill?
Spicing It Up
Berkely Heights gets a new restaurant with and Indian flare!–By Erin Kasari
Opening a restaurant wasn’t on Asha Gomez’s mind when she hosted her first Spice Route Supper Club last October. The multi-course meals, which Gomez held in her home, featured dishes from her native Kerala, a region in southern India nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. She originally planned for the dinners to occur quarterly, but after receiving high praise from those in attendance at her inaugural supper - which included some of Atlanta’s top food media - they quickly became a monthly, must-attend event. Spice Route’s dinners became so popular, in fact, that each of the 20 seats available at the supper club’s table would be reserved within minutes of the e-mail announcing the date of the next dinner being sent; often leaving 100 others on a waiting list hoping for a cancellation. “I always tell people that if you want to open a restaurant, start a supper club. It is the best test market. We actually got to see if there was a demand for this cuisine. It was this demand and Gomez’s desire to introduce regional Indian cuisine to a wider audience that provided the inspiration for her restaurant Cardamom Hill, which opens in January 2012 in the Berkeley Heights neighborhood. I recently visited with Gomez to get a preview of Cardamom Hill as well as how to incorporate spices into one’s own home cooked meals. December 2011
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Our dinner service will feature our duck roast, which is a duck breast seasoned with black pepper and cloves; Roasted fish, which is coated with a really thick, coconut milk sauce, then wrapped in banana leaves and roasted; Kerala stew, which is a vegetable stew served with your choice of meat, such as beef or chicken, and served with a side of papam bread.
Restaurants
Are there any spices that you use more than others? I have seven spices in my spice tin. I absolutely need it to cook. With it, I can make any Indian dish that I want. Every Indian kitchen has a spice tin. The spices that you use most in your kitchen are the spices that will go into the spice tin. I have cayenne, garam masala (a blend of spices similar to all spice), cumin, cloves, star anise, cardamom and cinnamon. Many home cooks are intimidated by Indian food due to the number and type of spices involved. What’s an easy recipe for those who want to experiment with adding more spices into their dishes? They can make a basic potato and pea curry:
For lunch there will be no set menu. I will decide what the menu will be each morning and put the day’s selections on Twitter and Facebook. We will have a vegetarian platter, which will be three vegetables and a starch, a meat platter with two meats, vegetable and a starch, and there will be a fish option. Is Kerala cuisine spicy like other types of Indian food? I think the big misconception that people have with Indian food is that it’s “fire” on your palate. When I talk about food being spicy, I’m talking about the vibrancy of the flavor of the spices like cardamom, star anise, cinnamon, for example. The food at Cardamom Hill is not about heat on your palate.
Cube and boil 2 potatoes and set them aside. 1/3 cup fresh or frozen peas, prepared. Take two shallots and slice very thin. Heat any oil - coconut, peanut, canola - in a pan. Add 1Tablespoon mustard seeds, 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1/4 turmeric powder, stir until it becomes fragrant. Add shallots and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add the potatoes and peas, stir until coated. Add cilantro as a garnish. (mint is a great substitute.) December 2011
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Travel/ Pleasure
Luxury Lodging: The newly remodeled Hotel Indigo Sheds its old look for an updated flair—By Andrea Janise Amidst the hustle and bustle of downtown Atlanta sits Hotel Indigo, a luxury boutique hotel brand specializing in providing a unique guest experience for travelers and locals alike. An Atlanta staple since 2004, Hotel Indigo prides itself on being intentionally reflective of the local culture in the surrounding community. With its latest remodel, the chic hotel does just that by shedding its old look for updated flair, while paying homage to the rich musical history of its prominent neighbor, the Fabulous Fox Theatre. There are loads of updated intricacies throughout the remodeled space. Once you enter the lobby, you’re immediately enveloped by whimsical lights and vivid colors. Head over to the reception desk where you’ll find the back wall covered with a photo mural of a collection of ticket stubs of some of the most coveted performances gracing the stage of the Fox back in the 1970’s and 80’s. Gazing up along the lofty ceilings, you’ll notice the charcoal walls exactly mirror the walls of the projection room at the Fox, artfully decked out with graffiti like drawings created by members of the cast and crew. Hotel Indigo’s beautifully decorated lobby, bar and lounge seem like the perfect setting for meeting clients, hanging out with friends or for grabbing a cocktail and bite to eat. Let the bartenders whip you up a cocktail, or help yourself at the self-serve wine bar where you can sample a rotating list of local wines and purchase as much, or as little, as you like. Inside of the 683 Bar & Lounge, you
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Food For THought
photo credit: IHG
Can southerners cook Italian dishes? Of course! My vegetable lasagne dish is certainly not your everyday Italian cuisine, but it is an amazing dish for people who want to cut carbs—like myself. This dish packs a punch on flavor but cuts out on 50% of the calories—what a treat! 4 sheets of Lasagna pasta noodles carry 300 calories, and the equivalent in squash and zucchini…just 14 calories a serving! The idea is simple. I use squash and zucchini (very thinly sliced) in place of lasagna noodles, which is loaded with carbs–genius, I know! You’ll love the taste and second guess the ingredients with every bite.–By Aisha Stith
can grab a seat at the ‘piano’ bar, order a specialty drink and pair it with small plate menu items that focus on using seasonal and local ingredients. Some of my favorite items were the Beet and Goat Cheese Salad; the local Cheese Plate featuring items from Sweet Grass Dairy; the savory Georgia Shrimp Burger; and the tasty Chocolate Soufflé. With 140 guest rooms, a new look and new menu, Hotel Indigo has totally revamped its style giving visitors a trendy place to lodge and locals a fresh destination to hang out in Atlanta. Visit Hotel Indigo at 683 Peachtree Street N.E., Atlanta, GA 30308 December 2011
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*pasta-less and gluten free **if choosing the vegetarian option…omit! Ingredients: 2 Yellow Squashes 2 Zucchinis Frozen Spinach (8 ounces) 1 cup of Low Fat Ricotta Cheese 1 Jar of Tomato Sauce (16 ounces) 2 Freshly Diced Tomatoes Low Moisture Mozzarella (12 ounces) Fresh mozzarella layers better than shredded packaged mozzarella but can be can be difficult to drain. I recommend deli mozzarella sliced medium. ¼ cup of Parmesan Cheese Ground Turkey** (10 ounces) Dry Seasonings (Oregano, Italian Parsley, Salt/Pepper) 1/3 of an Onion 1 clove of Garlic
Let’s Cook:
Preheat your oven to 375° degrees. If you are using the lean turkey option, cook first, sautéing with fresh onions and garlic. Heat the tomato sauce in the sauce pan, add fresh tomatoes, onions and garlic, it really brings out the flavor in the dish and gets some lycopenes and added antioxidants to the dish. Take your cheese slicer (or mandolin) and slice the squash and zucchini as thin as a lasagna noodle. Place all of the slices in the lasagna pan, sprinkle with dry seasonings and place in the oven for five minutes, to ensure that the texture is soft and easy to assemble. Remove from lasagna dish and set aside. After cooking the spinach (microwave or stove top) make sure to drain all excess water. There is nothing worse than soupy lasagna. Once drained add your What you will need: ricotta cheese to the spinach. Mix well and add salt and pepper to taste. Lasagna dish Now it’s time to layer the ingredients! The order goes…tomato sauce, Sauce pot meat**, ricotta, squash and zucchini, tomato sauce, and mozzarella and Skillet** Cheese slicer or if you are fancy a parmesan. Layer two or three times making sure to end with a layer of cheese for a golden finished look. Bake for 25 minutes. Enjoy this delimandolin cious, nutritious, guilt free Lasagna! Mixing bowls December 2011
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Disney MAGIC
Shake off the Winter blues at the Newly Opened Aulani Resort & Spa By Kirstin N. Fuller
Winter has arrived and everyone is dreaming of a warm, sunny destination to shake off the winter blues. Imagine gazing upon piercing blue waters, white sandy beaches, eating exquisite food and living in a suite with a breathtaking view. If that’s your dream, Hawaii is just what the doctor ordered, specifically the beautiful Ko Olina, Hawaii which is home to the islands’ newest resort, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa. Aulani is the newest member of the Disney vacation club and resort family. The resort welcomed its first guests on August 29th and is perfectly situated on 21 oceanfront acres in the Ko Olina resort community. Aulani (pronounced ow-lah-nee) celebrates the beauty, spirit and culture of Hawaii. The resort is home to two towers housing 359 rooms, including 16 suites and villas, four restaurants and two lounges. Every room is angled perfectly ensuring a clear view of the ocean, pool side garden or island garden. In addition to the luxury accommodations, the resort is also home to “Laniwai” a Disney spa. Not your ordinary spa by any means, “Laniwai” explores the Hawaiian cultures’ spiritual belief in rainbows. Treatment rooms are all named after rainbows including “luahoano” which is a rainbow around the sun or moon. The spa features 15 treatment rooms and the Disney exclusive family treatment room. This 18,000 sq. ft. facility is also home to “Painted Sky,” a spa for teens featuring a trendy yogurt bar, unique mixology station and a menu of age-appropriate services. Disney resorts are all about family fun and Aulani does not disappoint. The resort has special entertainment and water sport activities for the entire family, including Rainbow Reef, a 3,800 sq. ft. lagoon made for up close and personal snorkeling adventures with fish that are unique to the island. December 2011
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Aulani Double Suite
images courtesy of Disney Resort Public Relations
Aulani’s Restaurant
Kayaking, horseback riding and catamaran adventures are also available. Other features include Aunty’s Beach House, a kids club and program featuring games and storytelling for kids ages 3-12; and Menehune Bridge, a water play area with three slides, interactive water elements and a climbing water play structure. The fun is not just for kids, parents can enjoy signature spa treatments and a round or two of golf on the resorts exclusive Ted Robinson designed 18-hole championship golf course. Since Aulani is a traditional resort and member of the Disney Vacation Club, guests can experience the resort for a few nights or a week as a traditional hotel. Guests can also own a timeshare vacation as part of their membership. Owners also enjoy access to Disney resorts in 500 destinations including Hawaii. For more information, visit www.Aulani.com. Paradise is waiting! For a limited time book a winter getaway to Aulani and receive your 5th night free as part of the ‘Grand Opening Special Offer’. Enjoy the family paradise known as Aulani with a touch of Disney magic. Unlock more amazing destinations by scanning the barcode or visit www.passenger156.com
Food For Thought
With the holiday season in full swing, most of us are thinking about sweet potatoes, pies, stuffing and the like. Instead of packing on the holiday pounds we all dread shedding, I’ve created a healthy alternative that manages to cure your sweet tooth. What’s fun about this recipe is it’s mom tested and kid approved. When was the last time you saw a 3 year old eat an entire bowl of salad? Trust me, you’ll thank me later! –By Aisha Stith
Prep Time: 0 min Cook Time: Five Fast Minutes Ingredients: ½ cup of Light Brown Sugar ¼ cup of Apple Cider Vinegar 1 teaspoon of Extra Virgin Olive Oil 2 tablespoons of Almond slices 1 tablespoon of finely chopped Onions Your favorite salad (I like the crunch of romaine)
Let’s Cook:
This recipe is super simple, delicious, nutritious and fun. Lightly coat the sauté pan with olive oil over low heat. Add your onions, almond slices, and brown sugar, stir to spread over the pan. Turn the heat up slightly, brown sugar will bubble a little. Add the Apple Cider Vinegar; be careful the mix of ingredients will cause a little splattering. Turn heat down and stir with the back of a metal spoon. Let simmer for about 5 minutes on low to rid the bite of the vinegar. Drizzle over your favorite salad and watch your taste buds do a two step.
Aulani’s beautiful views December 2011
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Choose Your Liquor 1 shot or 1.5 oz. Traditional: In the South, we love our bourbon. In the summer, we like it straight up or on the rocks. But in the winter it makes for an excellent base spirit for the toddy. Twist: cognac, spiced rum or brandy Add Sweetener 1 Tablespoon Traditional: The sweetener quells the spiritâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bite. Widely recognized for its throat soothing and coating qualities, honey is most commonly used. Twist: cane sugar, brown sugar, maple syrup A Dash of Spice Just a pinch (or more to taste) Traditional: Cinnamon and cloves are the spices often used to make a toddy nice. While most recipes call for whole sticks or whole cloves, powder works best for quick blending. Twist: star anise or ginger Bartender, Rob Breen
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Anatomy of a Toddyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;By Erin Kasari
Squeeze of Citrus Juice from two lemon wedges Traditional: The lemon juice not only provides a dose of vitamin C, but its sour flavor balances out the sweet. Twist: orange
ith cooler temperatures and the holiday season upon us, we here at Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine wanted to find a drink that would not only warm our bodies, but our spirits, too.
Add Hot Liquid Fill it to the brim
Simple. Classic. Versatile. The hot toddy has been a perennial, wintertime beverage for centuries. We stopped by Livingston Bar to get a crash course from head bartender, Rob Breen, on how to prepare a traditional hot toddy and other ways to spice it up with a twist. Mint Tottie December 2011
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TABLE
SETTINGS
Redefined
By Erika Ward | Photography Chanda Scott
From the moment you enter Redefined Home Boutique, an enchanting shop nestled in Midtown’s Westside, you know you have stepped into a curators’ paradise. A treasure trove of sorts, you can find anything here from the most stunning handcrafted lighting to a collection of antiques that rival any showcase in the Southeast. As Redefined’s owner, David William D’Ambrosio lead us to one of the two New Year’s Eve “tablescapes” he designed exclusively for Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine, it was quite difficult not to stop for a closer look at the locally crafted furniture selection or shop rarities such as the vintage typewriters and cameras. D’Ambrosio’s passion for found objects and classic livable interiors is evident in the store’s discerning product selection as well as his table décor. The first display marries rustic and refined elements to create an atmosphere of understated elegance. The foundation, a solid oak and metal table built by local craftsmen, surrounded by six black Regency chairs upholstered in burlap with handsome nailhead trim, gave us a taste of the sweet juxtaposition that comes from mixing the old with the new. The place settings boasted handmade Swarovski crystal encrusted napkin rings threaded with plain stitched linen napkins in regal purple hues. Careful attention to detail is the key to creating a magical celebratory table just as much as the food presentation. With D’Ambrosio’s help, we see that the simplest meal can be disguised as haute cuisine when presented on handmade dinnerware. Intermingled with hand blown Italian champagne flutes is a set of animal horns, an unpredictable yet fitting element of December 2011
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Redefined Home Boutique
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D’Ambrosio’s handiwork. The horns delicately reinforce the rustic theme first introduced by the dining table and provide a structural element to this glamorous setting. The second display whisks you off to an undisclosed European destination with clues offered by the Louvre Dining Table and Antique Gothic Carved Head Chairs; the balance of seating is supplied with vintage black dining chairs. The Malaga Chandelier made from sea urchin spines casts an illustrious glow over the formally set table adorned with a charming spray of frosted pinecones, Christmas garland, and mercury glass candlesticks. The title of “Most Captivating Found Object” is shared between the painted remnants of an Italian Juliet balcony and a silver vintage teapot and serving tray. All of these elements work together in creating a romantic European holiday dining experience. This holiday season, when looking to turn your celebration table into something magical, it’s okay to detour from a traditional centerpiece in exchange for a bit of the unfamiliar. Consider choosing objects with interesting shapes, items that hold personal connections and those that spark conversation. Vintage items provide a charm that cannot be duplicated by its contemporary counterparts. A mix of new and old, vintage and contemporary, yield a look that is well attainable and very approachable. The staff of curators at Redefined Home Boutique are eager to assist you in creating a table design that’s perfect for you and your holiday guests. As we departed, I made mental notes of all items on my wish list. However, what I found most exciting was having another opportunity to discover a new round of treasures on my next visit to Redefined Home Boutique. 887 Howell Mill Road Northwest Atlanta, GA 30318 (404) 815-7250 www.redefinedhomeboutique.com
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Bling out your napkins
Quick Tips to Redefine Your Table 1. Don’t be afraid to mix and match textures, doing so gives your table a bit of definition. 2. Go for an non traditional centerpiece, consider choosing objects with interesting shapes that spark conversation. 3. Redefine nature. Using objects from outside your home, like pine cones and tree branches, give them a shimmer using a can of gold or silver spray paint. Find more holiday Tips and Tricks scan the barcode below or log onto www. blulabelbungalow.com
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Dream Design Weddings
with celebrity designer Tiffany Cook
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Design with Tiffany Cook
Wedding designer Tiffany Cook makes Atlanta her second home to inspire Brides and Grooms on their biggest day.
Tiffany Nieves-Cook is known for her over the top decor and jaw dropping wow factors, similar to the designs she created for R&B singer Amerie in her British West Indies Beach Front ceremony. Her client roster reads like an A-list Hollywood event and you may have seen her in action as a regular on the WE TV’s hit show “Platinum Weddings”. She is the CEO and driving creative force behind Dream Design Weddings, a wedding planning & design firm that caters to the luxury wedding market with clientele including pro athletes and celebrities. Tiffany is leading the way in this highly specialized market with her personal touch in planning and the design of luxurious weddings.
Creating the Dream In Atlanta A newly wed herself, Tiffany Cook became a regular to Atlanta while traveling with her then December 2011
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then fiance, who was also a long time Atlanta resident. Love also began to bring Tiffany to Atlanta to plan and design the wedding of Porsha Williams, the granddaughter of civil rights activist Hosea Williams, to the former NFL Quarterback Kordell Stewart at the beautiful St Regis Buckhead. From that moment, Tiffany fell in love with Atlanta, and is now opening her Dream Design Weddings Atlanta office in January 2012. In a two part series, Tiffany will expose her best secrets, showcase amazing bridal finds and showcase exceptional vendors, with brides and grooms of Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine. Each segment will focus on a different area of planning and design in an effort to help you create your biggest and best dream wedding! December 2011
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How does our relationship with food affect other aspects of our lives? I tell my coaching clients, ‘The way you show up to the table, is the way you show up in life.’ If every time you sit down to a meal, you tell yourself how this (insert food) is going to make you fat and you feel guilty for eating it, then guess what? That guilty feeling sticks and it carries over to how you approach your relationship.
QUESTIONS For
The Food
Relationship Coach
Ever wonder why you find yourself dieting over and over again? Do you constantly crave foods that you know are bad for you? Is there an emotional bond to the foods you consume? Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine sits down with Shelley Chapman, the Food Relationship Coach, to answer five of our most pressing questions about the relationships we have with the food we eat. Seriously, is there a psychology behind what we choose to eat? Definitely! Our food choices are driven by more than hunger. We have emotional and relational bonds to food and depending on what we crave, those foods can be clues to unresolved issues in our lives. I led a webinar earlier this year, in which I explained the maternal and paternal implications in our food choices. For example, strong cravings for dairy, such as ice cream, macaroni & cheese and bread and butter can be an indicator of “mommy issues.”
If you exercise strict control over what you eat, count calories for every meal and are constantly on a diet, then you may also have serious control issues in your relationships. Additionally, if you indulge on everything you see and tend to overeat, you may have a hard time dealing with your core emotions and seek opportunities to escape. These are extreme ends of the spectrum, however no matter where you fall, it affects the way you reveal your emotional self to your partner and how you communicate and express love. Our relationship to food also affects our relationship to money, but that’s for another interview! In that case, what steps should we take to begin to create a healthy relationship with food? Start by asking yourself what you want? Do you desire to be 30 lbs lighter or heavier? Do you want to rid yourself of disease? Do you want to enjoy the food you eat, instead of subscribing to the latest diet fads? Answering those questions will help you create a more beneficial food relationship. Oftentimes, people think it’s about what they’re eating, so they change ingredients. However, the most important ingredient to a healthy relationship with food, is deciding on what you want. Once you know what your goal is, you will be able to choose foods that support it. That is when food shifts from mere consumption, to a tool that you can use to enhance your life. Are there any specific types of foods that you recommend incorporating into our diets? I’m not a nutritionist however, I get this question frequently! As a Food Relationship Coach™, I tell my clients to eat what they L.O.V.E -- Life, Obedience, Vibes + Energy. Eat foods that give you Life. Abstain from or limit the intake of processed foods that are full of chemicals and preservatives. Those foods will definitely shorten your life. Only eat foods that are obedient to your body. Even though you may really love bread, the bread may not love you, causing you to experience discomfort and bloating. You may think that it is a no-brainer, but so many of us eat foods that really are not harmonious with our body’s nature. Feel the vibe of the food. I’ve harnessed my ability to look at, feel, smell and taste food to determine whether or not it’s something that will bring much needed energy to my body. This is why it’s important to speak intention (prayer) into food, especially if you didn’t prepare it, so you can direct the energy of the food to work for your body and not against it. I do recommend finding food you L.O.V.E. in my new book, Tantric Tastes: Dessert for Lovers available now on Amazon. Visit www.tantrictastes.com for more information. Follow the Food Relationship Coach on Twitter and Facebook. –By Andrea Janise
December 2011
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Press
Pass The Event: Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine hosted an exclusive shopping event, Sip Shop Taste, with the owner of Shop Taste Online owner Teresa Caldwell. Attendees enjoyed cupcakes from Yummi Sweets, hand massages from Sugar Foot and catering provided by Angel food catering. The Venue: Midtownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s luxury condominium The Atlantic, overlooking the skyline of Atlanta. Photography: Carl Semien| Leon Millette See More Pictures Here
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ATLANTA
Press
Pass
The Event: Atlanta has the best supporters of Breast Cancer, and the Susan G. Komen race for the cure shows the pride of Atlantans who supported the fight of friends and family during the 3-day event. We were downtown catching walkers in action as they showed their pink pride! Photography: Chanda Scott
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PASS The Event: Atlanta wine aficionados got a bubbly treat on November 10th, as PRIS Wine launched its new Lambrusco wine at the Corks and Cupcakes affair. The Venue: You read about The Cup Gourmet in our second issue and the venue hosted the event providing a unique frizzante wine cupcake especially for the pairing with Lambrusco wine.
Photography By: Carl Semien
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December 2011
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December 2011
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