Simply Buckhead October 2021 by Simply Buckhead

October 2021 ISSUE 82 • FREE Serving Buckhead, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and Upper Westside

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA

WHAT IS CLEAN MEDICINE? THRIFTY READS GET TO KNOW MEZCAL

TECH STARS

LOCAL INNOVATORS MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Your Plans. Your Progress. Our Priority.

Two relationship-driven banks, both leaders in the industry, have oﬀicially joined forces. The combination of IBERIABANK and First Horizon creates a leading financial services company dedicated to enriching the lives of our clients, employees and communities. Together, we will deliver better technology, broader lending capabilities and an expanded financial network powered by a team you know and trust.

9 locations in Metro Atlanta to serve you firsthorizon.com/better-together

Atlanta’s best agents selling the city’s most beautiful homes.

ELEGANCE with a twist of MODERN

Steak Market is a new-age steakhouse taking the fine dining experience to a new territory. We blend elegance

with a twist of modern atmosphere. Our intention is to become the one and only address for meat lovers and for those seeking truly entertaining and one-of-a-kind experiences. From our extensive spirits and specialty cocktail list to our “members-only” cigar lounge; at S&M we pride ourselves on doing everything bigger and better.

www.steakmarket.com (470) 355- 6540 793 Juniper Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 info@steakmarket.com reservations@steakmarket.com IG: @steakmarketatl

Please contact us for all your Construction and Real Estate needs! 404.698.3898 pacesbuildergroup.com

404.809.4880 aldergroveproperties.com Independently Owned and Operated

254 Nicholson Road offered for $2,800,000

3794 Zion Hill Road offered for $2,800,000

750 Chief Whitetails offered for $1,750,000

Lot 16 Blue Ridge Escape offered for $799,000

1000 Mulkey Road offered for $1,700,000

214 Old Mill Pond Road offered for $599,990

Kim Knutzen REALTOR®

c: 770.402.1908 o: 706.613.HOME KIM@ANSLEYRE.COM GUIDETOBLUERIDGE.COM 706.613.HOME | ANSLEYRE.COM | 116 WEST MAIN ST. UNIT 1C, BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513 All data believed to be accurate but not warranted. If you have any existing brokerage relationship, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal housing opportunity. *Represented buyer

BADGELY MISCHKA

HOUSTON • DALLAS • ATLANTA

To o t s i e s . c o m

@shoptootsiesatlanta

316 7 P e a c h t r e e R d . N E

4 04 . 842 .9 9 9 0

SIMPLY BUCKHEAD® |

OCTOBER 2021

Contents

Photos: 32, 70: Joann Vitelli

61 COVER STORY 12 Editor’s Letter

28 Pets: Doggie Dress-Up

[ SIMPLY NOW ]

Trick-or-treat tips and too-cute costumes

16 Local Salute:

30 Kids: Slumber Specialists

Finding Community

Local experts offer wise words on establishing healthy sleep habits for kids

Tech millennials give back

18 Travel Far: The Good Life

HERE’S TO THE INNOVATORS BEHIND-THE-SCENES WITH BUCKHEAD’S TECHNOLOGY STARS [ SIMPLY STYLISH ]

[ SIMPLY DELICIOUS ]

40 Fashion: Personal Effects

70 Review: Satisfying Southern

Palm Beach dazzles with luxury and approachable hospitality

[ SIMPLY LIVING ]

Jerry Buckner elevates the custom styling experience in Buckhead

22 Staycation:

32 Home: River Retreat

51 Wellness: Clean Bill of

The Thrasher family found an off-market home and turned it into their dream oasis

Health A new kind of medicine is shaking up the drugstore aisles

Big Little Touches Lake Lanier rental home stocks up on amenities

Chamblee’s Southbound serves high-quality fare in low-key environs

72 Drinks: Magical—And Often Misunderstood—Mezcal

52 Tastemaker: Simpler Suds

Get to know the spirit with a taste of place

Alex Royter brings handmade soaps to Buckhead

76 Tastemaker: Risky Business

Owner of Zambawango Desserts and Coffee

Jordache K. Avery has been designing cutting-edge, modern homes for more than 10 years

[ SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ]

From Australia to Atlanta, BRASH Coffee founder Chris Mcleod takes chances at every turn

26 Approved:

38 Tastemaker:

54 On Stage: Vocal Artist

Home Front-and-Center

Pillow Talk

[ SIMPLY HAPPENING ]

Local makers craft beautiful pieces for your home

Sudi Rafizadeh’s flair for textiles has made her a designer favorite

Richard English opens eyes worldwide to the beauty of art collecting

24 15 Minutes With: George Coundouriotis

36 Bulletin Board: Modern Moment

81 Events: Places to go and things to do

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA

Serving Buckhead, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and Upper Westside OCTOBER 2021 | ISSUE 82 P.O. Box 11633, Atlanta, GA 30355 simplybuckhead.com For advertising rates, call: 404.538.9895 Publisher and Founder

[ F E AT U RE D C ON T RI B U T OR ]

Joanne Hayes Chief Financial Officer

Sonny Hayes [ E DI T ORI A L ] Managing Editor

Karina Antenucci Senior Contributing Editor

Jennifer Bradley Franklin Creative Director

Alan Platten Contributing Home Editor

Giannina S. Bedford Copy Editor

H.M. Cauley Contributing Writers

Jill Becker

Sara Hanna Sara Hanna is an Atlantabased commercial and editorial photographer with a talent for bringing portraits, products and interiors to life. Hanna’s knack for learning what makes people tick in conjunction with her marketing background means she makes locals (such as renowned chefs Hugh Acheson and Kevin Rathbun) and celebrities (such as Ludacris, Vera Farmiga and Zac Posen) alike shine in photos. Her images have appeared in People; O, The Oprah Magazine; Los Angeles Times; New York Post; Food & Wine; The Local Palate; The Atlantan and Jezebel. She has shot more than 70 Simply Buckhead covers, and has worked with the magazine since 2011. Find her @atlphotos.

H.M. Cauley Rebecca Cha Carly Cooper Lauren Finney Harden Mickey Goodman Angela Hansberger Taylor Heard Michael Jacobs Amy Meadows Hope Philbrick Claire Ruhlin Ginger Strejcek [ PHO T O GRA PHE RS ]

Sara Hanna Joann Vitelli [ SALES & ADVERTISING ] Senior Account Executive

Cheryl Isaacs Account Executive

Michelle Johnson Graphic Designer

Layal Akkad [ DIGITAL ] Website Development Management

BHG Digital Director of Audience Development

Mike Jose We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. No portion of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission. Copyright © 2021 by Simply Buckhead ®. All rights reserved. Printed by Walton Press, Inc. Distributed by Distributech and Distribution Services Group.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Legal Counsel

Scott I. Zucker

FIND US ONLINE Read Simply Buckhead online at

simplybuckhead.com Facebook Like us at @livingwellatl

Twitter Follow us @simplybuckhead

Instagram Follow us @simplybuckhead

[ BEHIND THE COVER ] Technology is a part of our everyday lives, but rather than try to illustrate an app on a phone or a piece of programming, we asked Anike Sakariyawo, the founder of the S.E.E.K (Seeking Education Empowers Knowledge) Foundation, Inc. who is profiled in our cover feature, to get glammed up for our cover shoot. Kid models and budding tech enthusiasts Eliana and William played their roles perfectly, pretending to fly a drone and program a robot. As with all photo shoots, there’s plenty of magic happening behind the scenes, so while our photographer Sara Hanna snapped digital images, S.E.E.K. Program Director Ambry Johnson was on hand to make sure the robot and drone worked just right for the photos.

Photographer: Sara Hanna Producer: Jennifer Bradley Franklin Photography assistant: Chris Rothmann Hair and makeup: Bernice Barton Wardrobe: On Sakariyawo: Badgley Mischka Drape Front Peplum Day Dress in Aqua ($365), courtesy of Tootsies and styled by Sara Mixon Special thanks to Tootsies.

[ P RO U D S P ON S OR OF ]

[ P ROU D M E M B E R OF ]

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

SIMPLY BUCKHEAD®

OCTOBER 2021

[ E DI T OR ’ S L E T T E R ]

have a love-hate relationship with technology. It often feels like everyone’s staring at their phones (myself included) rather than engaging in conversation or being present.

Do we really need to Google the question at hand or check the Citizen app notification immediately? Can’t it wait until after dinner? At the same time, I very much appreciate all the daily smart functions that make life easier, such as beaming at-home workouts to the TV, modifying the house’s temperature remotely and checking on my sleeping baby from my phone. Once tech simplifies a slice of your life, it’s hard to go back. And, of course, technology goes way beyond smartphones and apps into major public health innovations such as the COVID-19 vaccine, space exploration that puts “regular people” in rocket ships to the final frontier and much more. It’s incredible what humans can create. We simply can’t stop, won’t stop! In our October issue, we explore the imaginations of local technology stars such as the founders of the Goodr app and Purposity platform, both of which aim to do good for communities. Atlanta is a hotbed for tech, and Michael Jacobs reports on the fast-growing startups in and around Buckhead that are working their magic in fintech, crypto, sales and security. He also chats with leaders at Atlanta’s tech incubators that serve to help tech businesses succeed here. I had the pleasure of speaking with former school teacher Anike Sakariyawo (featured on the cover) who founded a nonprofit to bring STEM and STEAM programs to underserved kids and helps foster the big ideas in little minds and therefore the future of technology in this country. Throughout this issue, you might notice that we’re also embracing a new social media-forward change. We’ve added Instagram handles to our stories so you can find and follow the interesting individuals, fabulous retailers and noteworthy businesses featured on our pages. Wishing you a healthy and happy October.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Karina Antenucci Managing Editor

SIMPLY NOW

TRAVEL STAYCATION

Big Little Touches P22

Tucked into a wooded lot, Southern Shore Cove offers ample private outdoor hangout spaces.

Stay and play at this rental property on Lake Lanier.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

D A E M F R A E T S S H A P

In-House Daily That ’s kind of our thing

ENJOY HALF PRICED BOTTLES OF WINE every Monday CHOP SHOP

valenzarestaurant.com

| 1441 Dresden Dr NE Brookhaven GA | 404.969.3233

NEWS Ginger Strejcek Courtesy Of Sanjay Kasliwal

BY:

Stunning designs by Sanjay Kasliwal, whose family has been in the jewelry trade since the 1700s, are handcrafted by master artisans at India’s iconic Gem Palace in Jaipur. Left: Rubellites, diamonds and pearls set, 18kt white gold. Above: The Goldnetic Collection.

BLING IT ON Buckhead boutique unveils glitzy gallery of jewelry, art and gifts

whole lot of name-dropping is going on at Don Purcell, an haute new spot at Buckhead Village where the featured designers have famously accessorized everyone from Madonna and Michelle Obama to Elton John and Elizabeth Taylor. The curated collection of modern fine jewelry, vogue art and posh gifts at the 1,200-square-foot showroom comes courtesy of owner and namesake Don Purcell, whose impressive creden-

tials extend from Charleston’s Bob Ellis to New York’s Jeffrey. “Through many years of experience in the luxury fashion industry, I have made a lot of amazing connections with talented people. I always look for quality and personalization,” says Purcell, a fine arts graduate from the University of South Carolina with a discerning eye for design and an adherence to old-school service that assure a great shopping experience. Dazzling offerings at the gem-studded

gallery include jewelry by Cathy Waterman, Eva Fehren, Loree Rodkin, Sanjay Kasliwal, among other prestigious designers, as well as mixed-media works radiating positive vibes by pop artist sensation Ashley Longshore of Louisiana. Judith Leiber handbags, Cire Trudon candles and even some antique finds round out the eclectic selection. “The fashion customer wants the best and expects the best,” Purcell says, “and that’s what we are going to give them.” n

A signature piece by Cathy Waterman, this 22K blackened recycled gold Column of Tears ring features blue tourmaline and ethically-sourced diamonds.

DON PURCELL 404.239.4350 donpurcelljeweler.com @donpurcelljeweler

NEWS CLIPS CAFE CULTURE Experience the joie de vivre of France just down the street at Buckhead Village, where the soon-to-open SaintGermain Bakery & Cafe will serve fresh pastries and croissants, coffee and tea, soups and sandwiches, and other European yummies to sip and savor in a quaint Parisian space with indoor dining and an outdoor patio. Order at the counter and snag a seat for breakfast, light lunch fare and after-dinner sweets, from 8 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. The cafe also features a selection of wine and bubbly by the glass

with a focus on regional, organic and women-owned vineyards, artisan chocolates and custom macaron towers with 18 available flavors. Founder/co-owner Mathieu Jourdan-Gassin, who runs the neighborhood bakery with his wife, Heather, says it offers “a little slice of France at any moment of the day.” @stgermainbakery

CRIME BUSTERS Move over, McGruff. Flock Safety is taking a bite out of crime from its expanded Atlanta headquarters at Westside Provisions Dis-

trict. The neighborhood watch startup produces solar-powered cameras and surveillance equipment that provide license plate and vehicle information to help local residents, businesses and law enforcement agencies. A spike in crime has led to increased demand for the cameras, which can also ping cars from the FBI’s most-wanted list. The new 9,700-square-foot space opening this fall more than doubles the size of the former office, now converted to an engineering hub for the fast-growing company that’s

tracking over 1,000 cities. flock_safety.com, @flocksafety

CATERING KING After half a century of service in the hospitality industry, Chef Vagn Nielsen of Proof of the Pudding has been duly crowned. He was honored with the 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Allie Awards celebration for his exceptional contributions to Atlanta’s events community. “Being part of an industry for so many years where one is able to constantly be challenged with creativity and excitement is

some of the best medicine one can get to keep an open mind, accept changes in life and be able to reinvent yourself to deal with life’s challenges,” says Nielsen, who’s orchestrated everything from elegant dinners for former presidents to conventions and golf tournaments since joining Proof of the Pudding as founding chef in 1984. Hailing from Copenhagen, Denmark, he formerly worked at Midnight Sun restaurant in Atlanta and The Anchorage House in Beaufort, South Carolina. proofpudding.com, @proofofthepudding

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

LOCAL SALUTE

BY:

Mickey Goodman

Chris Butsch is one of the tech community millennials raising funds and mobilizing volunteers to clean up the environment.

The Spandorfers were honored for years of service to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation.

It’s Personal

Volunteering in their DNA

For their many years of service, Dr. Philip (Pip) Spandorfer and his wife, Ellen, will be honored as Volunteers of the Year at the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation Annual Torch Gala on Oct. 15. The organization’s goal is to raise $520,000 to fund critical research for Inflammatory Bowel Disease. The Sandy Springs residents have a personal connection to IBD. Their son, Jack, now 20, was diagnosed with the autoimmune disorder when he was 11, and their daughter, Carly, was diagnosed a few years later. “Jack was so ill that he required surgery to remove a portion of his colon, and Carly also required surgery,” Spandorfer says. “Even though I’m a pediatrician, and my wife is a psychologist, we struggled dealing

with our children’s pain. When Jack got sick, we contacted the foundation looking for a support group for parents, and they asked if we would like to start a local chapter. That was in 2012, and even though our kids are in college, we’re still involved.” The Spandorfers also participate every year in the Golf Classic and the Take Steps walk, the Foundation’s largest peer-to-peer fundraising effort for patients, caregivers and friends. Teams vie to raise the most donations, and Spandorfer has had one of the top teams for the last five years. He also serves on the board of trustees. For more information, visit crohnscolitisfoundation.org/ chapters/georgia.

Event Facility with a Heart

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Tech millennials give back Battling depression in 2015, Chris Butsch quit his job to travel the world and study happiness in 40 countries. When he returned to Atlanta, the Buckhead resident wrote The Millennial's Guide to Making Happiness. But as a single millennial, he found it difficult to make friends until he began volunteering with Community Bucket. Founded by former Atlantan Jesse Grossman, the organization that has expanded to Austin and Denver helps young adults make an impact and feel connected through social volunteering. Last year, Butsch became director of Tech Gives Back, a group that plans quarterly days of giving to connect corporate tech teams to volunteer opportunities that help the environment and raise funds. “There is always a component of fun at the end, like gathering

Retired Atlanta Hawk star Kevin Willis focuses on giving back to the community.

Supporting nonprofits By the time 7-foot-tall Atlanta Hawks star Kevin Willis retired after 23 years in the NBA, he had established a pattern of giving by founding the Atlanta Children’s Foundation with his brother, Robert. “It’s for kids ages 6 to 21 living in long-term foster care and one way of giving back to the community that has been so good to me,” says Willis, who also owns Willis & Walker, a clothing line for tall men.

Finding Community

His latest philanthropic endeavor is 42West, a 9,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor Westside event facility that will support nonprofits in Atlanta. Clients can choose from a list of preferred food and beverage

vendors or supply their own. The idea for an event facility with a charitable component gelled when he met Lauren Pelissier, a seasoned professional event planner. “We hit it off right away,” Willis says. “We were both ready to do something that would have an impact on the community and formed the 42West Entertainment Group. The name is a play on my Atlanta Hawks jersey number, and our future plans are to open a 42East, 42South and 42North.” Every paid event will include a $200 nonprofit giving fee. “Clients can choose from a list of 501(c)3 orga-

at a brew pub,” says Butsch, who designs the themed initiatives. “We stayed connected virtually in 2020, but this year we’re picking up our shovels.” During the second quarter, teams played Healing Earth Bingo, a three-by-three bingo board with short eco deeds that have a measurable impact on the environment. For each board completed, Community Bucket donated $10 to the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper. “We had a cleanup on the river in May and extracted 1,400 pounds of trash and donated $1,275 in addition to completing 93 ecodeeds,” he says. The third quarter initiative supports urban farms such as Concrete Jungle and the Historic Westside Gardens. For more information, visit communitybucket.com/ tech-gives-back.

nizations that directly benefit the metro Atlanta area,” Pelissier says. “But the biggest giving element is that we will be providing the venue to nonprofits for no rental fee at least two prime days a month.” For more information, visit 42westentertainmentgroup.com and atlantachildren.org.

Want to nominate a volunteer, company or nonprofit that gives back to the community in Buckhead, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs or Upper Westside? Please contact: editor@simplybuckhead.com

An exclusive night with designer

November 11, 2021 Presented by

Media Partner

Benefitting

Tickets available soon at acfb.org. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, please email events@acfb.org or call 678-802-0690.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

T R AV E L FA R

IF YOU GO Stay Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa 561.533.6000 eaupalmbeach.com @eaupalmbeach

Dine Pizza Al Fresco pizzaalfresco.com Swifty’s at The Colony Palm Beach thecolonypalmbeach.com

THE GOOD LIFE Palm Beach dazzles with luxury and approachable hospitality Jennifer Bradley Franklin

ulling up to Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, I can almost hear Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous TV host Robin Leach inviting me to “Enter their dazzling world of luxury on privileged tours of the fantasy palaces they call home.” The selection of gleaming Bentleys, Lamborghinis and McLarens parked at the valet station reinforced the impression. Palm Beach and adjacent Manalapan, where the Eau is located, may be home to the designer shops and high-end dining you’d expect, but I discovered it’s also a delightfully down-to-earth beachside destination. My friend and I settled into our Eau accommodations, with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean’s waves crashing on the private sandy beach. The vibrant blue and yellow Jonathan Adler-designed rooms contrast with the lobby and lounge areas outfitted with fine art and antiques, a reminder of the property’s former life as a RitzCarlton. At the resort's Breeze Ocean Kitchen, my seafood cobb salad with

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Henry Morrison Flagler Museum flaglermuseum.us

Above: Find a chair on the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa's pristine beach.

Worth Avenue worth-avenue.com

Right: Walk or bike along the Lake Trail for views of the luxury yachts docked on the Intracoastal Waterway.

fresh poached shrimp and lobster, grilled pineapple, avocado, bacon and a tangy citrus vinaigrette paired perfectly with an icy, salt-rimmed margarita. After lunch, we settled into beach loungers and found that the people watching with fellow guests decked out in their Prada and Missoni resort wear competed with our novels for attention. We called in a favor with a local friend to score us a table at Pizza Al Fresco, an Italian restaurant that spills over into a courtyard perfumed with hydrangeas and lit with hundreds of twinkling lights. It’s not fancy, but creamy burrata with prosciutto di Parma and basil pesto, a Neapolitanstyle pizza from the wood-burning oven and a glass of rich Chianti evoked memories of my favorite experiences in Italy (likely boosted by our charming Italian server). Finding a car to take us back to the hotel proved challenging, so we detoured to The Colony Hotel Palm Beach. The pink exterior is quintessential Palm Beach, and the lobby’s junglethemed, custom hand-painted de Gournay wallpaper alone is worth the visit (find the panthers sporting diamond

Whitehall, the 1902 mansion built by Henry Morrison Flagler, is the centerpiece of the museum built in his honor.

Visit

Right: The Worth Avenue Clock Tower, overlooking the Atlantic, marks the start of the world-class shopping street.

necklaces). We sidled up to the poolside Swifty’s bar, ordered cocktails from a friendly bartender and enjoyed the balmy South Florida night. The next morning, we set out to experience some of the spots that have made this city a resort destination for well more than 100 years. The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum’s centerpiece is Whitehall, the 75room waterfront estate the Standard Oil co-founder and railroad tycoon completed in 1902. The jaw-dropping property is filled with opulent antiques and family artifacts, making it easy to envision house parties full of other Gilded Age luminaries. We drove across the drawbridge spanning the Intracoastal Waterway for a walking food tour of downtown West Palm Beach. A local guide led our group to taste a mahi tostada, croque monsieur, Colombian espresso, an Asian-fusion bento box and an award-winning Key lime pie, showcasing the diverse culinary talent in residence.

Captain Kimo

STORY:

West Palm Beach Food Tours westpalmbeachfoodtour.com

No trip to Palm Beach is complete without a stroll down Worth Avenue, the island’s preeminent shopping street. Just about every luxe designer you can imagine is represented: Bottega Veneta, Chanel, Gucci and Louis Vuitton, to name just a few. Venture into the alleys tucked off the main drag for treasures you won’t find elsewhere such as former Buckhead resident Danielle Rollins’ fashion designs at Coastal Girls and custom leather footwear at Il Sandalo of Capri. Palm Beach surprised me. Sure, it’s a place to make all of your “Champagne wishes and caviar dreams” come true, but it’s also possible to have low-key experiences punctuated by genuine hospitality. n

HEY BUCKHEAD, WE HAVE ARRIVED! Alon's

Plaza

Mall

officially for

Phipps

opened

business.

Stop

breakfast, &

has

for lunch,

more!

find us on nstagram! alonsbakery

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

T R AV E L FA R

Above: St. John's Episcopal Church, the site of Patrick Henry's most famous speech, is also the final resting place of Poe's mother.

An Ode to Poe Literary history and outdoor adventures abound in the Virginia capital STORY:

H.M. Cauley

Above: The Poe Museum houses an array of memorabilia connected to the author. Below: Kayakers on the James River have a sweeping view of the downtown skyline.

ong before Stephen King and Dean Koontz produced fictional goosebumps, Edgar Allan Poe was creating the genre. In this season of goblins and ghouls, his chilling stories are standards, packed with ominous ravens, blood-thirsty orangutans and maniacal killers bricking people up in wine cellars. For a Halloween adventure, what better place to visit than what bills itself as the world’s most extensive collection of Poe memorabilia in Richmond, Virginia? Poe’s life story is linked to a number of cities: He was born in Boston, buried in Baltimore and lived in New York and Philadelphia. But Richmond was his childhood home and where fans and scholars have amassed a vast array of artifacts, documents, books and personal belongings

in The Poe Museum. Poe was 2 when his actress mother died in Richmond, and he was adopted by the Allan family. Though the physical place where he was raised no longer stands, an assemblage of adjoining structures was connected

in the late 1930s to form the museum. The spaces are anchored by a tiny, two-story stone house, believed to be the oldest in Richmond, that contains Poe’s childhood bed and original writings. Another building contains an extensive library of his stories and poems, including first and rare editions; a third building exhibits more personal items—a lock of hair, a walking stick, a steamer trunk. The structures surround a memorial garden built in 1922. Along with flowerbeds and a bust of Poe, its chief attraction is the museum’s two feline residents, Edgar and Pluto, two ebony cats who roam the grounds greeting visitors. While it’s easy to while away several Richmond's Riverfront Canal Walk features paved paths for walkers and joggers that lead to the James River recreational area.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

hours poring over the Poe collection, other adventures await within walking distance. The museum is part of the city’s Shockoe district, one of Richmond’s oldest neighborhoods and known for its boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. A 12-minute stroll from The Poe Museum ends at St. John’s Episcopal, built in 1741 and now famous for two attractions: the grave of Poe’s mother, Eliza, and the site where orator Patrick Henry delivered his famous “liberty or death” speech in 1775. A reenactment of that rousing oration is staged during the summer. Shockoe also features the restored Riverfront Canal Walk, where paved paths wind along the water that used to bring supplies in and ship local goods out. Today, it’s popular with walkers, joggers, bikers and sightseers, as well as diners who grab an umbrella-shaded table at one of the adjacent cafes. Overlooking the district from a high bluff is the Virginia statehouse, designed in the 1780s by native son Thomas Jefferson who drew inspiration from Roman and Greek temples. Today, its location atop Shockoe Hill is surrounded by more modern edifices, including the 1894 Victorian-style city hall and the more contemporary structures of the Virginia Commonwealth University. The area is home to a variety of historic accommodations, from the boutique Quirk Hotel outfitted with works by local artists to The Jefferson, an opulent 1895 hotel that has hosted 13 presidents and a lengthy list of celebrities. For those not up to walking the district, an historic trolley takes tourists to the most notable destinations. As the former capital of the Confederacy, many of those historical highlights are connected to the country’s troubled past and are difficult to escape. But beyond those controversial elements, Richmond remains an intriguing getaway for those who want to explore the outdoors in the heart of a city—and who need a few goosebumps to make it interesting. n visitrichmondva.com @visitrichmondva

Premier Tasting s ' a Eve nt a l nt At

October 21st | 6PM - 9:30PM

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Reserve tickets at tobatl.com October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

S TAYC AT I O N

Left and Above: The expansive deck offers plenty of room for a group to lounge, dine and enjoy the hot tub. Below: A plethora of water toys, such as kayaks, paddleboards and tubes, are available for guests of Southern Shore Cove.

Big Little Touches Lake Lanier rental home stocks up on amenities

ou never really know what you’re going to get with a rental home. Sometimes the photos online may make it look bigger and better than it is, or the space may lack items that are needed for a comfortable stay. That is not the case at Southern Shore Cove, a short-term rental home located on the shores of Lake Lanier in Flowery Branch. Purchased in September 2020, the spacious six-bedroom, three-floor home underwent a huge remodel and feels like the owners have thought of everything to keep their guests comfortable. The responsive and flexible host made booking a weekend stay with my family (including two dogs and a few friends) a breeze. We communicated directly to coordinate this trip, but the house can be booked through

the home’s website, Airbnb or VRBO. After the short 45-minute drive from Atlanta and an easy key code entry, the fun starts (but doesn’t stop) in two game rooms of every little and big kid’s dreams. One takes place in the garage with a pool table, shufflepuck, vintage arcade games and a buffet of complimentary candy and snacks; the other downstairs features a card table and a stack of board games for every age, perfect for game night or a rainy day. A chessboard surrounded by plush seating beckons players near the front entrance and a cozy movie-watching space downstairs featuring more snacks on a lazy Susan and one of 10 big-screen smart TVs. Crank up the tunes on the surround-sound Sonos speakers for a soundtrack to your good time. Tucked into a wooded lot, Southern

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Karina Antenucci

Right: The cozy main floor living room features plush fabrics and soft blankets for curling up.

Shore Cove offers ample private outdoor hangout spaces including a screened-in porch with a picnic bench; a back deck with a grill, large dining table, couches and hot tub; a fire pit area; a hammock; and a lower patio featuring an outdoor shower. The view is more trees than lake, so you’ll need to walk down a path toward the dock offset to the right of the property to get that onthe-water feeling. Several kayaks and paddleboards are available for lake exploration. You can also rent or bring a boat, as we did, and park it in the boat slip. Fishing poles are available to add to the lake life experience. While they might take a backseat to the shared spaces, the bedrooms are equally comfortable. With three king rooms, two queen rooms and a spacious bunk room with four full beds and two optional trundles, there’s space for several friends or families. The garage game room provides fun for all ages.

STORY:

Just like the rest of the home, each room is well-decorated in mostly neutrals and blue tones with a beachmeets-lake vibe (think oars, shiplap panels and coral accessories). Our group had a blast cooking up a storm in the fully stocked kitchen, marveling at how it had everything from a slow cooker to a rice maker. Other thoughtful amenities included face masks and hand sanitizer, bikes, umbrellas and coffee bars. In a nutshell, this rental property is flawlessly outfitted for a stay-and-play visit. There’s no need to get into a car until you drive back home. n SOUTHERN SHORE COVE Rates starting at $529 per night 770.744.1627 southernshorecove.com @southernshorecove

A Place Where You Belong Spend the day or evening on the Town! Discover over 50 shops, services and restaurants. Town Brookhaven is truly your one stop shopping and dining destination with a blend of interesting boutiques, delicious restaurants and useful services. ANCHORS

Costco • LA Fitness • Marshalls • Publix

APPAREL & ACCESSORIES Dress Up • Vestique

SHOES & BICYCLES Big Peach Ride + Run

HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY

18|8 Fine Men’s Salon • Atlanta Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center (Opening Soon) Benchmark Physical Therapy • Brookhaven Orthodontics Emory Clinic • European Wax Center GNC (General Nutrition Center) • Injectable Xpress RX, Inc. Intown Pediatrics • The Joint - The Chiropractic Place Julian’s Cosmetics and Skincare • Massage Heights Nail Talk & Tan • Saks Salon • Salon Red • Town Dentistry Vein Clinics of America • Vida-Flo: The Hydration Station

DINING

26 Thai Sushi & Bar • Crumbl Cookies (Opening Soon) The Flying Biscuit Café • HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern Kilwins (Opening Soon) • Lucky’s Burger & Brew Moe’s Southwest Grill • Newk’s Express Café Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub • Red Pepper Taqueria There Restaurant and Bar • Tropical Smoothie Café • Urban Wok

HOME FURNISHINGS & DÉCOR Redefined Home Boutique

SERVICES

Brookhaven Alterations • Brookhaven Animal Hospital Corporate America Family Credit Union • FBC Mortgage Keller Williams • Reflections Eyecare • Town Cleaners

ELECTRONICS, MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT AT&T

TRAVEL & TOURISM Explore Brookhaven

www.townbrookhaven.net Conveniently located on Peachtree Road adjacent to Oglethorpe University.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

15 MINUTES WITH

GEORGE COUNDOURIOTIS STORY:

Amy Meadows

bout four years ago, George Coundouriotis was ready to make a permanent change in his life. While he followed a low-carb lifestyle on and off since the early 1990s, he had experienced significant weight fluctuations over the years and wanted to keep the weight off for good. The sabotage, he determined, was a love of eating out and indulging in his favorite fare: dessert. From Europe, where he grew up in several places including Greece, to Atlanta, where he’s lived for more than two decades, the self-proclaimed foodie loves to explore different cuisines. “Even though I had sworn that I would be loyal to the low-carb lifestyle, I invariably would cheat with a decadent dessert,” Coundouriotis says. His realization about how his eating habits affected him led him on an unexpected journey as the founder, president and general manager of Sandy Springs’ Zambawango Desserts & Coffee, a low-carb bakery and specialty coffee shop. Established in January of 2018 and opened in the Serrano Condominium building off of Abernathy Road in October of the same year, the bakery has made desserts accessible to people who are looking for delectable low-carb, sugar-free and gluten-free choices. Coundouriotis works with partner and executive pastry chef Kathleen McDaniel, who uses almond and coconut flours and natural sweetener Swerve in the baking process. He has managed to offer a unique spin on some of the most in-demand sweet treats. The bakery offers the gamut of cakes, brownies, cookies, breads and bagels. How did you make Zambawango a reality? I interviewed many chefs, and when I said that we were going to be a low-carb, sugar-free, gluten-free bakery, they rolled their eyes. Kathleen followed the Keto diet, and she said she would love the challenge. We both thrive on challenges, so we did a lot of R&D [research and development]. I had photographs of what I considered to be benchmark desserts from places where I was privileged to live and travel, and she immediately understood what I meant with those benchmarks. We brought her ideas and my ideas together. Where did the name “Zambawango” come from? As with many other brands, Zambawango started off as

a made-up word that we could register nationally. Our goal is for the name to one day be associated with low-carb deliciousness. What has been the most rewarding part of opening the bakery? We have taken a food group that has been forever classified as a guilty indulgence and turned it upside down. We use wholesome ingredients, and everything is fresh. And we’re not just for the low-carb lifestyle. If you’re suffering from diabetes or other health conditions, you may have to avoid sweets. So you have this huge underserved group. What we offer is sugar-free and lowcarb, but it also has a lot of protein, fiber, magnesium and minerals that are found in the almond and

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

coconut flours. We’re not in the health business; we’re in the bakery business, but our products potentially provide many benefits. How has it affected your own low-carb lifestyle? When I got serious with Zambawango, I became very serious about adapting

to the low-carb lifestyle for good. Since then, I’ve lost over 60 pounds. What are your favorite menu items? I love dark chocolate and white chocolate. Our chocolate mousse is really decadent, and it has a big dollop of heavy whipped

cream on top. We also have a lemon cookie dipped in white chocolate. It’s so good. n ZAMBAWANGO DESSERTS & COFFEE 404.879.9731 zambawangoshipping.com @zambawango

PROFESSIONAL CURATION, CUSTOM COMMISSIONS, AND WHITE-GLOVE INSTALLATION Claire Rosen, B.F.A., photography, 2006, Parakeet 1, archival pigment print, 60" x 40"

A P P ROVE D

Home Front-and-Center Winter is the perfect time to get nice and cozy at home and perhaps refresh a few of the items you’ve been meaning to for the last couple of months. As you begin nesting season, there is a lot to think about, such as what style and types of items you want to update throughout your spaces. One thing to consider is shopping local for furniture, textiles and accessories, especially since our city has such a vibrant community of makers and artisans ready to help you update your space. Check out these Atlanta-based design companies for options that will make your space shine.

Skylar Morgan Spirit Steward Bar Cabinet (price upon request) Every entertaining homeowner needs a bar cabinet, and one as stylish as this one by Upper Westside-based Skylar Morgan Furniture is certainly a conversation starter. Made from rare rosewood veneer, it has brushed brass and matte black accents that add a modern touch. Upon opening it up, users will be delighted by the functional LED lighting and cool smoked mirror, both of which will highlight any collection of liquors and drinkware in style.

STORY:

Skylar Morgan Furniture 404.565.0537 sklyarmorganfurniture.com @skylarmorganfurniture

Lauren Finney Harden

Kimberly McDonald Lace Agate Print Throw ($2,250) Jewelry and home designer Kimberly McDonald has a shiny new jewel box boutique at Buckhead Village District. This Italian-made throw with a print reminiscent of agate rock formations is from her Signature KMD Home Collection. Made from 100% cashmere, the luxurious blanket speaks to McDonald’s love of nature. If you adore this pattern, check out her rug and wallpaper line in similar agate and other natural prints.

Nest Studio Tortoise Pull ($250) Atlantan Jess Davis of design firm Atelier Davis also owns Nest Studio, a collection of whimsical and interesting drawer pulls that will instantly bring charm to any case good. Available in polished brass or verdigris (an antiqued-looking turquoise) at Matthew Quinn Collection in Buckhead, this tortoise pull adds a geometric and natural element. Love the style but not the finishes? Custom finishes are available upon request to easily fit into any scheme.

Kimberly McDonald 404.549.7095 kimberlymcdonald.com @kimberlymcdonaldjewelry

Available at Matthew Quinn Collection 404.974.3560 neststudiocollection.com @neststudiohardware

Steve McKenzie’s Loop Print Fabric in Walnut ($139 per yard)

Gilded Body Pink Onyx Marble Candle ($68) Be carried away to another place and time with this pink onyx marble candle from Gilded Body, now available at HERMARKET at Buckhead Village District. Choose from five scents such as Eavestone (cedarwood, patchouli and tonka), Lavender (French lavender, camphor and eucalyptus) or Orange Blossom (petitgrain, orange blossom, neroli). The candle vessels are refillable, so you can swap scents without discarding of the pretty exterior. A subscription for monthly deliveries of wax refills of favorite fragrances is available.

Designer Steve McKenzie is known for his painterly prints that translate well into his fabric collection. Printed-to-order on Belgian linen, the fabric is a clever way to incorporate artwork into your room without hanging it on the walls. If you make an appointment to visit the atelier in Upper Westside, speak with the designer and artist himself for an intimate, personalized experience. Steve McKenzie’s 404.618.0422 stevemckenzies.com @stevemckenzies Gilded Body 470.223.5235 gildedbody.com @theartofbodycare

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

P E TS

“Ghostbusters” Halloween pet costume, available for $23.02 at Walmart.

TRICKOR-TREAT TIPS AND TOO-CUTE COSTUMES

Football pet costume by Rubie’s, available for $26.99 at Target.

DOGGIE DRESS-UP D

ressing up your dog for Halloween sounds like a lot of fun. Just look at those hilarious costumes! But first and foremost, as with anything you do with your dog, you need to know their personality and if they can handle it. Chelsea Murray, certified dog trainer, behavioral specialist and owner of Chambleebased Pawsitive Futures, weighs in on what to keep in mind whether you take them around the neighborhood or if they stay home that night.

Puppy latte dog costume, available for $19.99 at Party City.

STORY:

Taylor Heard

“Star Wars” R2D4 dog costume, available for $16.29 at Target.

A lot of things we find fun about Halloween can be scary for dogs. Kids with costumes and masks, kids who are running around and screaming, loud noises and flashing lights can all be really stressful for dogs. Even those that are well-socialized may have a limited tolerance. “If too many stressful things happen, and they’re pushed over that tolerance, they could bite,” Murray warns. “Additionally, because a lot of our trickor-treating happens when it’s dark out, visibility is not as good, so dogs can be more easily startled.”

Make sure they have exercise and entertainment that day. Prior to the Halloween festivities, go on a walk to allow them to get some energy out so they aren’t as anxious or reactive. If you choose to leave them at home, give them something to do to distract from doorbells ringing and potential noise outside. “We recommend products such as food puzzles or Kong toys to help keep the dogs calm and occupied. If the dog is comfortable in a crate, they can go inside of the crate in a bedroom,” Murray says.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

DETAILS

If your dog is sensitive to noise, turn on classical music. “This will help drown out external noises of kids’ screaming that might cause stress for your dog, and it promotes relaxation. So while you’re out having fun, the dog can be calm inside,” she says.

Keep tabs on your dog. Another fun aspect of Halloween is having friends over before or after hitting the streets. Make sure to pay attention where your dog is. “It’s very easy for dogs to slip out the front door while we’re letting friends and family in,” Murray says. What’s more, don’t leave the candy bags within muzzle range. If your buddy got into the chocolate bars, it would require an emergency vet visit—certainly not how you’d like to spend the night. n

Party City Perimeter Village 470.604.7168 partycity.com @partycity Pawsitive Futures 770.598.7274 pawsitivefutures.com @pawsitivefutures Target Lenox Marketplace 404.237.9494 target.com @target Walmart Supercenter Chamblee 770.455.0422 walmart.com @walmart

Wonder Woman dog costume by Rubie’s, available for $14.99 at Target.

UPS dog costume by California Costumes, available for $16.94 at Walmart.

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October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

K ID S

Slumber Specialists LOCAL EXPERTS OFFER WISE WORDS ON ESTABLISHING HEALTHY SLEEP HABITS FOR KIDS STORY:

Giannina S. Bedford

xpectant parents often hear how little sleep they will get after having kids. While the first few weeks with a newborn are tough, sleepless nights shouldn’t remain the norm. We spoke to Laura Hunter, co-founder of Moms on Call, and Natalie Carney, a certified infant sleep coach and newborn specialist, about how to establish and maintain good sleeping hygiene for children, newborn to 8 years old. After all, a well-rested family is a happy one!

0-12 months Establishing a routine in the first year is key. “The way kids and little ones tell time is by doing the same thing at the same time every day,” Hunter says. “Create a realistic routine right from the get-go. Laying down that foundation of great sleep starts very early.” To prep for bedtime every night, Hunter suggests a bath followed by pajamas, story time and a final feeding in the baby’s nursery. For children under 12 weeks, she also suggests swaddling. Creating an environment conducive to sleep is also important. Hunter recommends a new crib and mattress as well as a high-quality sound machine of muted white noise—no high-pitched frequencies or noise that changes. The room temperature

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

should be between 68 and 72 degrees and pitch black. “The body works on light patterns,” Hunter says. “We want the body to know it’s nighttime, and we are going to get this nice, long stretch of sleep.” If light is needed in the room, Carney suggests a red light that doesn’t interfere with sleep. Listening to your baby’s cues is also vital, Carney says. For example, if your baby has a bad nap day, consider putting him or her to bed a little sooner. And don’t always jump at the chance to solve all their sleep issues. “Parents are really eager to fix things for newborns, but I give them time to practice,” Carney says. “It’s not screaming their heads off, but if they flinch or make a sound, [consider] giving them a few minutes to see if they can do it on their own without rushing to fix it for them.”

1-4 years Keep kids active during the day and make sure they get a nap (or naps) so they can make it to bedtime. After age 2, many kids drop all naps. During this transition, it may be helpful to adjust bedtime a little earlier. “If they decide not to nap, give them a solid two weeks before you actually drop it to make sure it’s not a progression thing, and then adjust bedtime [earlier],” Carney says. “You can eventually go back to that [later] bedtime, but giving them the opportunity to have that extra time if they

Laura Hunter and Natalie Carney help parents reclaim their sleep.

need it is important.” After turning 1, many kids don’t have trouble sleeping through the night, but don’t take this as an opportunity to lose all structure. Keep the bedtime routine consistent with a bath, story time and lights out around the same time each night. A well-designed sleep environment continues to remain important. Hunter suggests keeping toddlers in the crib until they climb out or you need the crib for another child. “If we can keep the crib until 2 to 3 years of age, that’s great. We look at the crib as that safe area while they are navigating standing up and moving around,” Hunter says.

“We are still trying to hit the goal of what’s the earliest time we can get them to bed and work around what is going to be most consistent most nights,” Hunter says. If kids want to stay up later on weekends, Carney suggests giving them an extra 15 minutes to start and monitoring how it impacts wake-up times and morning moods. “It gives you the opportunity to see where they are and whether they can handle it or not,” Carney says. “If they can, you can increase it another 15 minutes.” Turn off screens an hour or two before bedtime to protect sleep-inducing melatonin. “The blue light can be disruptive and, if the child is sensitive, it can keep them awake for long periods of time,” Carney says. n EXPERTS

4-8 years Routine is still important, but there can be more flexibility. Try to work around extracurricular activities to keep a bedtime routine in place and get kids to sleep as close to 8 p.m. as possible.

Natalie Carney slumberosity.com @thebabysleepcoach Laura Hunter momsoncall.com @momsoncall

HOM E | B U L L E T I N B OA RD | TA S T E M A K E R

SIMPLY LIVING

HOME

River Retreat P32

“I love the flow of the home now and how it works for our family.” —Mary Beth Thrasher

Michael, Mary Beth, Mary Charles, Hugh and Betsy Thrasher at home. Photo: Joann Vitelli

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

H OM E

Above: Heirlooms such as the plates around the television were mixed in with Durham’s touches, which include a glass and acrylic coffee table, a custom carpet and pillows in the living room. Below: The Thrasher family gathers around their kitchen island.

RIVER RETREAT The Thrasher family found an off-market home and turned it into their dream oasis STORY:

Lauren Finney Harden

PHOTOS: Holly

Knight

Joann Vitelli

any Atlantans can claim that they have the Chattahoochee River in their backyard, from Peachtree Corners to Vinings and beyond. But one of the most coveted stretches of the river is in Sandy Springs, where homeowners relish the convenient location and the opportunity to be so close to nature. So in 2016, when Mary Beth and Michael Thrasher and their three children were set on the area between I-285 and the river, they knew they’d have to get creative in such a desired locale. They loved the neighborhood, but there weren’t any homes for sale, so the couple put in an offer on an unlisted home—and they were

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Left: Farrow & Ball’s Pink Ground in high gloss offsets touches like chairs sourced from Palm Beach, a Ballard Designs dining table and lighting from Kudzu in Sandy Springs. Below: The kitchen is bright and sunny thanks to neutral floors and crisp, clean whites.

Above: The entryway, seen through the dining room. Below: A rug from Parviz Oriental Turkish Rugs helps hide stains and spills and pulls together several spaces.

“I love Whitney’s use of color and that her designs are fun and not stuffy,”—Mary Beth Thrasher to. “The house is not huge, so I wanted to make use of every square inch,” she says. That included removing the formal living room and using that freed-up space to add a large pantry, a small office space adjacent to the kitchen and an open floor plan. “It better suited our family and functions as a good entertaining space,” she says. They also reconfigured the laundry room and garage, and added a substantial mudroom. While Hicks and the Thrashers came up with the plans, it was the responsibility of Whitney Durham of Whitney Durham Interiors to oversee them, from the beginning of construction to the final furniture install. “Mary Beth wanted me to help with the selection of paint colors, lighting, soft furnishings and furniture, and the oversight

of hard selections like countertops, tile and hardwood floor stain,” Durham says. Durham also chose the wallpaper, furniture layout, visual flow and art placement. Durham and Mary Beth have a long history as friends since high school. “I love Whitney’s fun, laid-back personality,” Mary Beth says. A design buff herself, she knew they’d work well to collaborate on ideas and make decisions together. “I love Whitney’s use of color and that her designs are fun and not stuffy,” the homeowner says. “We have three young kids, so I wanted the house to feel playful, fun and lived-in, with a mix of budget and high-end pieces collected over time.” “I definitely wanted to incorporate familyfriendly fabrics, forgiving rugs and furniture,” Durham says. That meant using a lot of s

surprised when it got accepted. “We have always been drawn to traditional ranches,” Mary Beth says. “This house sits on a flat lot with a large backyard and a pool.” That was important to the growing family, who wanted a house they could renovate and make their own. “When good bones and a great lot lined up, we were sold,” she says. It wasn’t a question of if there needed to be a renovation, but rather when. “I wanted a more open floor plan so our family could be together without all being in the same small room,” Mary Beth says. They ended up signing a contract with builder John Hicks of J Carpenter Homes three years to the day of their move-in date. A timeline of four to six months was agreed upon—and more important, adhered

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

H OM E

Far right: A swipe of Benjamin Moore’s Coral Glow in the mudroom brings liveliness, as does a vintage ladder found at a flea market and the ceiling, which is in a corresponding cheetah print wallpaper. Right: Mary Charles in the mudroom. Below: Painted bead board picks up the blue hue in the powder room’s Borastapeter wallpaper.

WHITNEY’S 5 TIPS FOR ADDING COLOR TO YOUR HOME: 1. Consider the room’s flow. “Select colors you love and incorporate them in different ways for ease of flow throughout your home. For example, if you have a blue sofa, use a similar shade of blue in a piece of artwork in an adjacent room.”

indoor-outdoor fabrics, colorful Turkish rugs and faux leather in places such as the breakfast nook seat cushions. “They help hide the majority of stains and spills.” Durham incorporated a mix of old and new into the scheme. Mary Beth had a few special family heirlooms from her mother-in-law, such as the dishes above the fireplace, the antique chest in the foyer and the pair of chairs in the breakfast nook, which was right on target with Durham’s process. “I love incorporating family heirlooms because they add a lot of history and character to a space. They help the home feel curated over time, which is a look I prefer,” she says. Artwork was also important to Durham’s final mix, drawing upon what the Thrashers already had from talented friends and neighbors who happened to

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

be artists. “I love to incorporate original artwork, but it can be expensive. When a client already owns it, I love using it somewhere, somehow,” Durham says. “It’s one of my favorite ways to infuse personality and originality into a home. It helps tell a story about who lives there and what they like.” The renovation and redesign were a victory for the Thrasher family. “I love the flow of the home now and how it works for our family,” Mary Beth says. “I can be cooking dinner, and the kids can see me from the playroom but do not need to be right under my feet. I also love the pops of color around every corner: the blush walls peeking out of the pantry, the orange cheetah print on the mudroom ceiling and the bold wallpaper in the powder room. It makes me happy every day.” n

2. Get painting! “If it makes you nervous to paint all four walls in a bolder hue, try painting your interior doors all the same color, or paint your ceiling or trim that color in high-gloss sheen for some drama.” 3. Sample first. “Get samples and put them in the room. Look at the paint colors at all times of day, and place fabric samples on or near adjacent furniture to make sure you like them paired together before investing in a purchase.” 4. Pop it. “If you prefer neutral walls and adding pops of color throughout, try patterned textiles, colorful rugs, window treatments, artwork, primary furniture and lighting.” 5. Lacquer up. “Another popular way to add color is through lacquered furniture. You can have a vintage piece painted in a high gloss color of your choice. It makes an older piece of furniture feel new again.”

Homeowner Mary Beth Thrasher and designer Whitney Durham.

FOOTBALL’S “PLAY TO WIN”

ATLANTA’S #1 COLLEGE AND NFL FOOTBALL SHOW For the most up to date information on The Falcons, UGA, College and the NFL join us every Saturday morning 9am only on WAGA TV Fox5 Atlanta

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

BULLETIN BOARD

BY:

Giannina S. Bedford

PRODUCT

SPOTLIGHT

Elevate your lighting game with the Tartufo Coco Shell Chandelier by Currey & Company. Arranged in a globe shape, the discs are made from coconut shells, appearing tan on the inside and a lighter shade on the outside. The four-bulb fixture is accented with hardware in a cream finish. Available to order B.D. Jeffries Atlanta through B.D. 404.231.3004 Jeffries for bdjeffries.com $1,440. @bdjeffriesatl

Modern Moment J

OUTDOOR SPACE Open-air amenities are all the rage. “Every project wants a pool, and there is a much stronger emphasis on roof decks that are partially covered.”

Architect Jordache K. Avery founded his firm, XMETRICAL, in 2009.

Ben Rollins

ordache K. Avery has been designing cutting-edge, modern homes for more than 10 years. The principal and owner of boutique design architecture studio XMETRICAL, he and his team work with complex 3D modeling to create one-of-a-kind contemporary residences for clients from the eastside of Atlanta to Buckhead. We chatted with him about the trends he’s seeing in his projects.

down the road, are more prevalent. “Even if the client doesn’t want to pay for the elevator now, they want a shaft for a future elevator. Some people plan to age in place, and some people want the potential to sell the home with that amenity that can be added.”

WOOD ELEVATORS Elevators, or the ability to add one

DESIGN & REAL ESTATE NEWS

Georgia area, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia generated more than $4.4 billion in sales volume and 11,606 transaction sides in 2020. bhhsga.com

n Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties has opened a new office in Buckhead. The Chastain office at 3744 Roswell Road

features light-filled, open spaces and modern work areas. With more than 1,600 associates and 26 locations across the metro Atlanta and North

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

n The Atlanta Design Festival is back Oct. 2-10. The festival, aimed at fostering international dialogue on the economic and social impact of design, is hosting events across Atlanta, including some in Buckhead. atlantadesignfestival.net.

From Shou Sugi Ban (a Japanese burnt wood) to ribbed designs, the

n ADAC’s Get Down to Business event Oct. 27 will include four informative sessions covering industry topics applicable to designers at every level. Attendees will learn about the current and future state of the design industry from leading experts, many of whom are design firm founders sharing the successes and challenges they faced while taking their businesses to the next level. adac.com ∙

use of this natural element on the exterior of modern homes is getting more creative. “[Wood] is often horizontal, but we are starting to push the envelope a little bit on what you can do.” ,

WINDOWS More daylight is being brought into homes through larger glass openings. “We used to have multiple windows, and now we are starting to have larger XMETRICAL pieces of glass and 404.474.0018 less metal between xmetrical.tv windows.” n @xmetrical

n According to a report by ImproveNet, Atlanta ranks No. 8 in the nation for the happiest homes during quarantine. Data gathered from nearly 3,000 Americans attributes happiness to having space to exercise, dark and quiet sleeping spaces and an organized and clean home. Other study highlights: l Atlanta ranks No. 3

for homes that support the body (space to exercise, ergonomic and

supportive furniture, a kitchen that encourages cooking). l Atlanta ranks No.

9 for homes that support sleep (no TV in bedroom, no phone in bedroom, supportive mattress and dark and quiet sleeping spaces). l Atlanta ranks No.

10 for homes that support relaxation (limited noise, home is organized and clean, and has a pool/bathtub/hot tub to soak in).

TA S T E MA K E R

PILLOW TALK SUDI RAFIZADEH’S FLAIR FOR TEXTILES HAS MADE HER A DESIGNER FAVORITE

“I

absolutely hated it,” says Sudi Rafizadeh of her first job out of college. The Iranian-born transplant had just graduated with an advanced science degree and had gone to work at a laboratory. She dreaded even walking down the hall to her office and quickly realized she wanted a change. Her career today couldn’t be more different. She traded test tubes for textiles to start Home Accent Inc./ Designs by Sudi. From her busy workroom on Buckhead’s Miami Circle, she creates handmade, custom draperies and pillows that interior designers can’t get enough of. How did you make such a dramatic shift from science to design? I’m from the Middle East, where you either had to be a teacher or a doctor, so I went to school to get a science degree. But it was never my forte; I never enjoyed it. I started doing design and fell in love with it. I’ve always loved art and creating things.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Tell us about your business. I started Home Accent Inc. in 2002. At first I was just making draperies from fabrics designers would bring in, but I had always wanted to have my own line of high-end pillows, so I started Designs by Sudi. I sell to the trade only and don’t mass produce anything. My draperies are all custom, and I do a limited number of each pillow I design. I sell to quite a few stores, but none of them have the same inventory. I don’t like repetition. Where do you get inspiration for your designs? I love old and antique textiles. I would take old rugs or tapestries that are falling apart and make them into pillows. For a client, I might take an old needlepoint their grandmother had stitched and make it into a pillow that will always remind them of her. Was there someone who helped you on your journey? Yes. I came to the U.S. in 1985. After living in New York, D.C. and North

STORY:

Jill Becker PHOTO: Joann Vitelli

Carolina, I moved to Alabama, where I met the most beautiful soul. She saw how unhappy I was in my life and work. She was doing design at the time and taught me how to sew. Everything I have, I owe to her. She’s my best friend. What else has contributed to your success as a designer? I don’t call myself a designer. I didn’t go to design school. But I’m great at what I do because I have an eye for color and patterns and balance. What are some of your favorite design shops in Atlanta? I like Mrs. Howard, WebbMarsteller and lots of the showrooms at ADAC like Holland MacRae. What’s something about you that would surprise people? I only have one of my own pillows in my house. And the only reason I even have that one is because I had to take a pillow home to put on a bed when some out-of-town guests were coming.

What current design trends are you seeing? It’s interesting how trends circulate. Chintz was popular at one time, and then it went to muted colors. Now chintz is coming back, and you’re seeing lots of prints. One thing I see that never goes out of style is the color blue. It’s always the first thing I run out of. What’s next for you? I’d really like to expand my pillow business to meet the demand, but I recently became a mom for the first time. I had my miracle baby. She’s 15 months old, and I’m raising her myself. So I want to spend as much free time with my daughter as possible. Her name is Dounya, which means “universe,” and she means the world to me. n

HOME ACCENT INC./ DESIGNS BY SUDI 404.495.9811 @designsbysudi

FA S H ION | B E AU T Y | W E L L N E S S | TA S T E M A K E R

SIMPLY STYLISH

TASTEMAKER

Buy handmade soaps or make your own at Buff City Soap in Buckhead.

Simpler Suds P52

“Seeing products being made gets people really excited.” —Alex Royter

Photo: Joann Vitelli

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

FAS H I O N

PERSONAL EFFECTS Jerry Buckner elevates the custom styling experience in Buckhead STORY:

Lauren Finney Harden

ith an impressive retail sales and styling resume that includes stints at Saks Fifth Avenue, Tom Ford and Christian Dior, Jerry Buckner knows fashion and knew that Atlanta was missing a custom shopping experience. “I wanted to curate an experience that was very different, something that is reminiscent of what it once meant to shop at luxury department stores,” Buckner says. Enter Buckner’s brainchild, Jerrimiah James, a custom styling studio that opened in Buckhead Village District last summer. A play on his first name and his favorite book of the Bible, Jerrimiah James is about Buckner matching the experience with the caliber of the pieces he chooses for his clients. In his dedicated, intimate space, he offers customers Champagne and small bites while they shop major brands such as Moncler and Etro, as well as select vintage pieces curated by Buckner and presented by him and his staff of stylists. “I deliver on a very high level because people who can afford these clothes work really hard to get them, and they deserve a shopping experience that’s memorable,” he says. All clothing and accessories are available for purchase, and clients can consign their designer pieces. “Our goal as a company is to build a more conscious industry by following the garment from start to finish. We assist clients with extending the life of their garment via our rental and resale platforms,” he says. “We are creating a new standard for conscientious consumers.” Buckner, who has lived in Atlanta for a decade, chose the Buckhead location because of the convenience

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

of being in a luxury retail hub. “It offers me and my clients a space where I can bring them all the pieces they’re interested in, and they can have a great time,” he says. Aesthetics and fun aside, for Buckner, the most important part of shopping is the consideration of what’s being purchased. “It’s not about owning something for a period of time and sticking it in a closet,” he says. “I myself was guilty of getting pieces just for the sake of saying I owned it and to be caught in a photo wearing it.” Buckner wants to educate his clients on why being more intentional and thoughtful in their clothing choices is not only good for them, but good for the environment in the

long run, as it keeps pieces out of landfills. He notes that luxury is about quality, not quantity. That doesn’t mean the clothing itself has to be eco-friendly necessarily, though there are some lovely sustainable fashion brands such as Brunello Cucinelli and Stella McCartney. He wants clients to understand what goes into the garments and to be stewards of them. “I want fashion to start with intention,” he says. n

JERRIMIAH JAMES 404.940.0111 jerrimiahjames.com @jerrimiahjames

Sustainability Is In Style AVOID CLOTHING WASTE AND NEEDLESS SPENDING WITH BUCKNER’S SUGGESTIONS: “Shop consciously. When shopping for something new, ask yourself, ‘How will this impact my life now?’ not in the future or who you were yesterday.” “Shop and support brands that are sustainable or have causes that contribute to restoration or sustainability efforts.” “Shop small and local brands.” “Avoid brands that greenwash, which is selling sustainable-looking practices rather than actually being sustainable.”

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CTZN Cosmetics Nudiversal Lip Duo ($25) and Lipstroke Waterproof Lip Liner ($16)

Coutesy of Nordstrom

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AND BEAUTIFUL

Not sure what your ideal nude shade is, even after these tips? Enter CTZN (pronounced “citizen”), the brand that boasts 25 shades of nudes in its double-ended, vegan gloss-andmatte lipstick combo and five in its lipliner line. To make the selection process simple, the brand offers a 30-second shade-matching quiz at ctzncosmetics.com with images of 11 models wearing all the colors for reference. Armed with the liner and lip color, you can create nude lip looks that go from sheer to defined. Note: This writer tried it, and the Nordstrom online match nordstrom.com @nordstrom was perfect.

NUDES ARE A TIMELESS AND STYLISH CHOICE FOR ALL SKIN TONES

f you’re like me, working remotely and endless phone meetings have meant that makeup has been optional most days. Choosing nude makeup is a nice way to make the transition back. “Nudes are always in style because they’re achievable beauty that really make women feel confident,” says Alli Parisi, field executive education manager for Bobbi Brown, who regularly trains makeup artists in Buckhead. “Now more than ever, women are searching for products that enhance their natural tones.” Here are some of her best tips to ace your nude makeup, whether you want to go with a look that’s barely there or bold.

Flawless foundation. New to using nudes? “Look for colors that you find naturally in your skin. They should mimic tones you see naturally occurring,” Parisi says. “Start by evening out the skin with something lightweight, like a tinted moisturizer to remove discoloration and even out the complexion.” Then you’ll be ready to build a look with other sheer colors.

STORY:

Jennifer Bradley Franklin

Ready to shine. Metallics and shimmers can add interest to nude makeup when they’re layered over matte shades. Parisi recommends using them judiciously to keep the look uncomplicated. “Focus on one area of the face since they are meant to enhance your overall look. Keep it simple, stick to one shade of shimmer or metallic, and you will continue to look effortless.” Amp it up. Wearing nude makeup doesn’t have to be boring. “When going more dramatic, focus on one aspect of the makeup. A bold eye or a bold lip with clean skin and makeup that is soft allows the dramatic feature to stand out more,” Parisi says. For example, nude eye makeup and neutral blush will allow your bright red lipstick to really pop.

Call in the pros. When in doubt, don’t be afraid to seek professional help at your local makeup counter for choosing your ideal shades. n

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Sticks ($30 each) We’re fans of products that multi-task, and these shadow sticks can be used as a primer, liner, eyeshadow and highlighter. The line of 19 highly pigmented nude and neutral colors are buildable in endless combinations for a look tailored to both your skin tone and what your day holds. Just swipe it on eyelids and blend with your finger (you can use a brush, but it’s not necessary). Once the product sets, it’s smudge-proof for at least eight hours. Bonus: These all-in-one sticks are formulated without nasties such as mineral oil, parabens and phthalates. Ulta ulta.com @ultabeauty

Charlotte Tilbury Nudegasm Supernudes Face Palette ($75) This new kit by the brand known for its luminous makeup comes with four universally flattering, glow-inducing shades in three translucent finishes. Super Glow is a soft gold highlighter with a glass-like, wet finish for extra shine; the golden peach Multi Glow has a satin finish to give cheeks a healthy look; the taupe Sculpt shade in a cream-powder matte helps blur blemishes; and Super Sculpt’s soft brown lets users sculpt bone structure and create definition. Use them in creative Sephora ways and combinations that sephora.com work for your skin tone. @sephora.com

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for yourself as part of our lifestyle visit Enjoy up to three nights in one of our cottages or at The Ritz-Carlton , two rounds of golf, a two-hour boat rental and more. Cottage packages are $299 per night and hotel packages start at $399 per night, subject to seasonal rate changes. ®

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*Rates and availability are subject to change and excludes holidays. Club credit for promotional purposes only. The Ritz-Carlton seasonal rates start at $399 November-March and $499 April-October. Real estate and other amenities are owned by Oconee Land Development Company LLC and/or other subsidiaries and affiliates of MetLife, Inc. (collectively, or sale of Resale Properties. This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy OLDC-owned real estate in Reynolds Lake Oconee by residents of HI, ID, OR, or any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law. As to such states, any offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy applies only to Resale Properties. Access and rights to re

For OLDC properties, obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. Void where prohibited by law. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMIN and Salesmen at 1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, Massachusetts 02118-6100 and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection at 1700 G Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20552. Certain OLDC properties are registered with the Department of Law of the State of New York. THE COMPLETE directed to any person or entity in the state of New York or to New York residents by or on behalf of the developer/offeror or anyone acting with the developer/offeror’s knowledge. No such offering, or purchase or sale of real estate by or to residents of the state of New York, shall take place until all regist

“OLDC” or “Sponsor”) and by unrelated third parties. Reynolds Lake Oconee Properties, LLC (“RLOP”) is the exclusive listing agent for OLDC-owned properties in Reynolds Lake Oconee. RLOP also represents buyers and sellers of properties in Reynolds Lake Oconee which OLDC does not own (“Resale Properties”). OLDC is not involved in the marketing ecreational amenities may be subject to fees, membership dues, or other limitations. Information provided is believed accurate as of the date printed but may be subject to change from time to time. The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is a private commercial enterprise and use of the facilities is subject to the applicable fees and policies of the operator.

NED, OR DISQUALIFIED THIS OFFERING. An offering statement has been filed with the Iowa Real Estate Commission and a copy of such statement is available from OLDC upon request. OLDC properties have been registered with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers OFFERING TERMS ARE IN AN OFFERING PLAN AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR. FILE NO. H14-0001. Notice to New York Residents: The developer of Reynolds Lake Oconee and its principals are not incorporated in, located in, or resident in the state of New York. No offering is being made in or stration and filing requirements under the Martin Act and the Attorney General’s regulations are complied with, a written exemption is obtained pursuant to an application is granted pursuant to and in accordance with Cooperative Policy Statements #1 or #7, or a “No-Action” request is granted.

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Maggie Schreck, PA-C is a highly-skilled and sought-after injector treating patients in the Buckhead location of Truffles Medispa. Maggie is an injector trainer for both Allergan (the makers of Botox Cosmetic, the Juvederm portfolio, and Kybella) and Galderma (the makers of Dysport, the Restylane portfolio, and Sculptra Aesthetic). Maggie is also one of the very few injectors who trains physicians and other practitioners throughout the State of Georgia in the use of Sculptra Aesthetic for both the face and body. With more than fourteen years of injectable experience, Maggie specializes in Non-Surgical Aesthetic Rejuvenation. She is a true artist who loves working with patients to help them achieve their aesthetic

maggie schreck

goals. She is known for her excellent bedside manner, exceptional patient care, and innovative treatments that cannot be found at other practices. Maggie obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Fine Arts from Miami University of Ohio and her Physician Assistant degree from Yale University. In addition to her extensive experience as an injector, Maggie has worked in the field of plastic surgery since 2007 assisting in surgery, preoperative care, and postoperative care. Maggie is a native of upstate New York and lives in Atlanta with her husband and two children.

Maggie Schreck, PA-C

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W E L LN ES S

Clean Bill of Health A NEW KIND OF MEDICINE IS SHAKING UP THE DRUGSTORE AISLES STORY:

Left to right: David Johnson, founder of Genexa; Dr. Shayna Smith of Flourish Pediatrics.

Lauren Finney Harden

rugstore offerings look a little different today thanks to an influx of brands competing with traditional medicines and remedies. Often categorized as “clean medicine,” these alternatives are shaking up offerings that have been standard for many decades. One such brand is Atlantabased Genexa that offers medicine and homeopathic remedies. A recent round of millions of dollars in funding for Genexa has made it clear that this category is a major contender in the future of over-the-counter. Father of two and Sandy Springs resident David Johnson founded Genexa in 2016 with business partner Max Spielberg when their status as new dads got them thinking. “As a new parent, I found myself in the medicine aisles much more frequently and started questioning the ingredients in my children’s medicine products,” he says. “Max and I were both shocked at all of the different chemical ingredients that went into making what seemed like should be a relatively simple product.” Given that beauty, food and other categories are getting “cleaned up,” it

made sense to Johnson to tackle the category, despite having no previous experience in medicine. He says, “People turn to medicine when they need to feel better, and it’s a no-brainer that people deserve cleaner options.” The brand, which has Dr. Taz Bhatia of Brookhaven-based CentreSpringMD on its medical board, sells both homeopathic remedies (think arnica tablets for pain, antacids and sleep aids) as well as clean medicine such as the pain reliever acetaminophen or the cough suppressant dextromethorphan. Its patented preservation system allows Genexa to eliminate additives, binders and fillers such as high fructose corn syrup, parabens and Red Dye 40 typically found in over-the-counter meds and

replace them with natural and organic ingredients such as beetroot powder and agave syrup. Powerful people have taken notice. Celebrities Gwyneth Paltrow and Don Cheadle have signed on as investors. With more than 45,000 retailers across the country, clean medicine is proving to be the next big thing. “Based on the momentum behind Genexa and the clean medicine movement, we know that more transparency will be coming to our pharmacies in the years ahead,” Johnson says. Shayna Smith, M.D., of Flourish Pediatrics in Sandy Springs focuses on a “whole body” approach to pediatric health and wellness. Smith, who receives no compensation from Genexa, says she is a fan of its values and clean medicine approach, and sometimes mentions it to give her patients options. She understands the appeal in clean medicine, both

for those looking for less toxic ingredients and those who have reactions to certain ingredients. “Clean medicine has the active ingredient but gets rid of the fluff. I am open to alternative remedies. When used properly, they can sometimes complement a traditional treatment and benefit the patient,” she says. Smith does have a word of caution, though. “When looking for cleaner products, consumers must know who is telling them that it is cleaner. There are a lot of alternatives on the internet and social media that have not been researched, evaluated or studied, and claims that one supplement may ‘cure’ an ailment.” Her advice is to do your own research into who is behind the claims, and of course consult your doctor first. But on the whole, she sees alternative medicines and remedies as a good thing. n DETAILS Flourish Pediatrics 470.500.6844 flourishpediatrics.com @flourishpeds Genexa genexa.com @genexa

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

TA S T E MA K E R

Employees craft products on-site at Buff City Soap in Buckhead.

It’s a family affair, too. Who works with you? My wife, who has a retail management background, helps out 30 hours per week while helping raise our three girls who are 17, 17 and 14. One of my 17-year-old twins worked full-time at the store during the summer, and one of her friends works there as well. And I have to make my 14-year-old go home because she likes staying and working all the time. How’s the in-store shopping experience key to the operation? You can read about it all you want, but when you walk in, you’re transported. It smells so amazing. Seeing products being made gets people really excited. Everybody needs happiness right now. Ten to 75 year olds and beyond are our customers. People can come in and play in our Mad Lab [DIY fragrance bar]. We have some of the neatest fragrances created by customers such as Piña Colada, which a laundry soap customer said is like “wearing vacation.”

Simpler Suds Alex Royter brings handmade soaps to Buckhead STORY:

Karina Antenucci

PHOTO: Joann

Vitelli

f you’ve ever tried a natural soap bar, you might wonder at its lasting power. Traditional soaps can shrink down to nothing within a week because of their lathering ingredients. “Our soaps can last for up to on average three to four weeks, up to six weeks [with daily use],” says Alex Royter, owner of Buff City Soap in Buckhead, which opened in May as the third Atlanta-area location. The others are under different ownership in Roswell and Peachtree Corners. Buff City Soap employees make all of the products by hand daily. The

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

mix includes plant-based products such as soaps, shower oils, laundry soap and bath bombs, as well as lotion bars and beard balm that incorporate beeswax (“no bees were harmed in the process,” Royter notes). All items are free of parabens, phthalates, harsh detergents, dyes, animal fats and sulfates, and while some of the fragrances are not all natural, customers can opt for 100% unscented if they have skin sensitivities or choose essential oils. Royter, a Sandy Springs resident, has the pulse on hot retail franchise opportunities. For the majority of his professional life since moving to Atlanta in 1994 from Northern California, he ran 20 Solar Dimensions tanning salon locations, 19 of which

he sold in 2018. He’s also co-owner of three Burn Studio locations in Buckhead, Brookhaven and PonceyHighland. Ready for a new venture, Royter began exploring opportunities with Buff City Soap, a franchise based in Memphis. Why did you choose Buff City Soap for your next retail endeavor? Soap is a consumable, and something everybody needs. I toured the Memphis locations and was impressed by how happy the team members and customers were. Even though it’s a franchise, every franchisee builds their own inventory from scratch from the ground up. Team members who work there and sell the products feel a lot of pride because they also make them.

What are a couple of your favorite products? My favorite is the Narcissist Laundry Soap, a fantastic combination of peaches, raspberries, patchouli and sandalwood. It smells very unisex. The shower oil called Commando has a lightly musky fragrance that I like, too. What are the products’ vibrant colors made from? The colors are made from mica, a mineral. Natural mica that is mined is not sustainable. It’s very difficult to mine and bad for the environment, so ours is lab-produced. It creates beautiful colors without using artificial dyes. When your team grabs a bite in Buckhead, where do they go? We like to support our neighbors! It’s a combo of CAVA that just opened a couple doors from us and Menchie’s. n BUFF CITY SOAP 404.835.2460 buckheadga.buffcitysoap.com @buffcitysoap.buckhead

ON S TAG E

| ART

| LITERARY

SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Regardless of whether they bid, Richard English says viewers receive an art education with every piece he auctions off for AVC.

ON STAGE

Photo: Joann Vitelli

Vocal Artist P54

“Auctioneers get better as they get older, they say.” —Richard English October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

O N S TAGE

VOCAL ARTIST Richard English opens eyes worldwide to the beauty of art collecting

ichard English says he learned the business of nonstop gab through two years of silence. From 1988 to 1990, he was the assistant to a man who led nine art auctions a week in London. Though blind in one eye and deeply impaired in the other, the man was a master at reading the room, English says. He just needed a cue when someone bid, so English would kick his boss’s ankle. “I never picked up a microphone for two years,” English says. But he has rarely put the microphone down in the three decades since. “I’ve sold more artwork than probably anyone on the planet.”

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

English, 57, estimates he has led more than 5,000 art auctions, most of them during 22 years working on the Queen Elizabeth 2 and Queen Mary 2 cruise ships while he was based in Brighton, England. He now runs three-hour televised auctions four days a week from a Norcross studio for viewers in the United Kingdom and Australia on The Fine Art Auction. In 2019, production company AVC sponsored English’s U.S. immigration from England to Tampa, where he was near his mother and sister. This past January, he moved to a Buckhead apartment after travel proved difficult during the pandemic. The show’s U.S.

STORY:

Michael Jacobs

PHOTO: Joann

Vitelli

version, which English doesn’t host, runs 20 hours a week on cable and satellite systems in metro Atlanta. English embraces the oddity of an Englishman staring into a TV camera in Georgia to sell art to bidders battling from Birmingham, England, to Brisbane, Australia. English is on air from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., which is 4 to 7 p.m. for his British viewers and the early hours of the next day for Australians. Answering the auction’s phones are people originally from the callers’ countries who now live in Georgia. English says they’ll hold up national flags to represent the bidders, and he plays up the international rivalries in

competitions for pieces ranging from signed prints of long-dead artists to original pieces by current painters. The prices range from $100 to $25,000, though English says most items sell for less than $1,000. “There’s a limit to what we can actually offer on television,” he says. “It’s not going to compete with Sotheby’s and Christie’s. There [also] are probably people that watch the show for years and never acquire a work of art.” The experience is far different from a cruise ship, where a captive audience is plied with free champagne with no distractions, and the auctioneer can see the woman in the third row nudging her spouse to keep bidding for that Picasso print. In his pre-TV days, English says he once sold 220 works in four hours on an Australian cruise ship, but he typically auctions 18 pieces in three hours on The Fine Art Auction. That gives him 10 minutes per piece, most of which he spends on education about the artist, the item and anything else that could help turn viewers into collectors. Keeping those viewers from changing the channel requires an auctioneer with experience, knowledge, a good sense of humor and quick thinking. He also needs to be a performer, English says. “I think a lot of auctioneers will maybe admit to being frustrated actors.” English’s own small art collection includes works from Marc Chagall, Robin Austin, KEF! and his favorite, Salvador Dali. “Richard’s done a great job leading this, building that engagement, that camaraderie with the audience,” says PJ Lynch, CEO of AVC, who plans to expand the art show globally. Locally, English wants to get to know his new home better. He has made British friends cheering on the West Ham United football club from Fadó Irish Pub near his apartment, and he hopes to meet more people through benefit art auctions for top Atlanta charities. Lynch’s company will donate the art, and English will give his time and talent. One collaboration planned for January at the Georgia Aquarium brings his experience full circle. It is a fundraiser for the Denver-based Blind Institute of Technology, for which Lynch is an adviser. English will use the job skills he learned beside a nearly blind man to benefit a nonprofit that prepares visually impaired people for their own careers. n shopavc.co.uk/avc-fineart -auction.php

ART

Inspired by the Past FOR ARTIST ANDERSON SMITH, MAKING IT BIG MEANS LOOKING BACK STORY:

H.M. Cauley

nderson Smith’s art is born of inspiration. The first flash of insight came while he was growing up in Chicago and watching an aunt draw. “I sat at the table and started doing it, too, until I got good at it,” Smith recalls. Between that start and his current career as a mixed media artist whose works are snapped up by celebrities and collectors, Anderson went into the military after high school, studied sociology at Barber-Scotia College in North Carolina, got into photography and wound up working in Texas. When a best friend moved to Atlanta, Anderson was inspired to follow. In the 21 years he’s been a local, Smith, now 50 and living near Lenox Square, has pursued photography, focusing on shooting fashion and product layouts for local magazines and companies. But it took prodding from his girlfriend for the self-taught artist to move into the professional sphere. “She’s the one who ignited the fire under my career,” Smith says. “She took me to New York in 2011 for the first time, and all I did was walk around with a camera. I was able to do a pop-up for Atlanta Celebrates Photography because she pulled together my work from that trip.” The death of his girlfriend five years ago proved to be another inspiration. “Out of depression, I started painting again,” he says. Now most of his attention is focused on producing mixed media collages and oversized works in acrylics and spray paints, many of which are around 6-by-7-feet and priced from $6,000 and up. The inspiration for these creations is often

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

drawn from his past, Smith says. “I’ve been going back to my childhood and my favorite cartoon characters. I always wanted to be a cartoonist, so I went back to what I did as a kid. I’ve also done a series of collages that look back at entertainment icons like Bowie and Lennon, and themes from the ’90s hip hop era.” Some of his pieces have found homes on the B concourse at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International,

the Clermont Hotel in Midtown, Cam Newton’s Fellaship.ATL eatery in Castleberry Hill and in the home of rapper and fan T.I. Others are on display at Buckhead Art & Company, where Smith has been represented for more than two years. “I walked in there one day and started talking to Katie Jones, the owner. She had a photography show coming up, and she put me in it. We formed a relationship, and she even

lent me space near the gallery to do my work.” Smith is now one of Buckhead Art & Company’s top-selling artists, and open to whatever inspiration comes next. n

ANDERSON SMITH andersonsmithcollection.com @artbyanderson

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L I T E R ARY

GRAB A BOOK AND GO! FIND A NEW READ WITH ONE OF THESE RECYCLED OPTIONS STORY:

H.M. Cauley

Little Free Libraries The idea behind the Little Free Libraries is to encourage communities to expand residents’ reading options by having donated books available at no charge. The neighborhood-based program often features cleverly crafted containers such as tiny houses or oversized birdhouses that are placed in parks or other public areas with easy access. A few Little Free Libraries are located at the addresses below:

he owners of Southern Bistro are dispelling that old adage that nothing in life is free. The Sandy Springs restaurant offers a stash of freebies just inside the door. The giveaways are books–novels, historical retrospectives, philosophical deep dives and children’s tales, to name a few. They arrive at the bistro from patrons and visitors who drop off and pick up when they’re in the neighborhood. Just how the book swap started isn’t clear, says owner Coleman Goodrich, but it’s been going strong for about seven months. Patrons stopping by for take-out grabbed something to read while waiting then added the book to their to-go bags. “I’m not sure if someone approached us about it or not, but it’s pretty popular, and the inventory turns quite frequently,” he says. “I know I’ve brought books from home; one guy brought in a trove of books with lots of Lewis Grizzard titles that are gone. It has a life of its own; we don’t moni-

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

tor or promote it, but we make sure people can see the sign when they come in.” While they aren’t free, books at area thrift stores provide avid readers with another affordable way to increase their collections or the scope of their reading material. At Buckhead Thriftique on Miami Circle, books are the third most popular item in stock, behind clothing and housewares. “We have repeat people, even resellers, constantly coming in for books,” says Michelle Krompegal, the store’s retail operations director. “We have all sorts: children’s, adult, cookbooks, sometimes even school books. They’ve all been donated, so we scan them to see what they’re worth and then price them accordingly.” Krompegal says it’s unusual to find anything pricier than $3, and the paperbacks and kids’ books are $1. The pricing and displays are overseen by a crew she calls her “book ladies” who tend to the inventory. Some local libraries also sell af-

fordably priced books that have been donated or are rotating off the shelves. The Buckhead, Northside and Sandy Springs branches of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library, as well as some in the DeKalb County system, have “friends” associations that collect and sell books at sales throughout the year. The Sandy Springs location boasts a library store, a dedicated area stocked with affordably priced books. The Northside branch also has a bookstore where patrons are asked to pay whatever they’re able. Funds raised support library activities, including new book purchases. While picking up a new selection of reading material, bargain hunters might also uncover a gem. At Thriftique, a glossy coffee table book that once retailed for $200 was specially tagged for $50. Occasionally an expensive textbook might also find its way onto the shelves. “We’ve got a book now on thermodynamics for $30 that might be $130 online,” Krompegal says. “You just never know what you’ll find.” n

45 River Park Drive, Sandy Springs 30328 3187 Cates Ave., Brookhaven 30319 209 Peachtree Way, Atlanta 30305 220 Springdale Dr., Atlanta 30305

DETAILS Atlanta-Fulton County Public Library 404.613.6870 fulcolibrary.org @atlantafultonpubliclibrary Buckhead Thriftique 404.365.8811 buckheadchristianministry.org @buckheadthriftique DeKalb Public Library 770.512.4640 dekalblibrary.org @dekalbpubliclibrary Southern Bistro 404.705.8444 southernbistroatl.com @southernbistroatl

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Sara Hanna

Allison Maurer Photography

COV ER S TORY

HERE’S TO THE

INNOVATORS BEHIND-THE-SCENES WITH BUCKHEAD’S TECHNOLOGY STARS Many of us use more pieces of technology per day than we can count. Just when it seems like everything worthwhile has already been developed—from apps to business models—creative entrepreneurs keep solving more problems. They’re committed to coming up with new ideas to make life easier, create a better world and provide services we didn’t know we needed. It’s exciting to think that some of these new innovations are being pioneered right in our own backyard. Read on to discover some of the local visionaries leveraging technology in creative new ways.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

COVE R S T ORY

SERVING UP

SCIENCE Anike Sakariyawo brings STEM and STEAM programs to underserved kids STORY:

Karina Antenucci

PHOTO: Sara

Hanna

hen Anike Sakariyawo read articles about Mark Zuckerberg creating a messaging app at the age of 12 and that Jeff Bezos was called “the little engineer” and rebuilt a clock at 8 years old, a bell went off. “When you start learning STEM and STEAM at a younger age, you are more likely to go into a related field that piques your interest and be successful,” says the Sandy Springs resident. An elementary and middle school teacher for 15 years at Title 1 schools in impoverished areas, Sakariyawo wanted to make a difference for the kids. With a love of science and a master’s degree in General Education with a concentration in General Science from Cambridge College of Healthcare and Technology in Sandy Springs, she looked for ways to bring STEM/STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) exposure, equipment and resources to her children. Her efforts began by incorporating science projects in her Miami classroom and blossomed into launching the S.E.E.K (Seeking Education Empowers Knowledge) Foundation, Inc. in 2012 while she continued to teach. The nonprofit provides children from ages 3-18 with educational opportunities online and also implements the programs in schools in underserved neighborhoods and at other kid-focused nonprofits. Youngsters learn how to code and to make everything from body lotion to a skateboard to an A/C unit, gaining knowledge about different types of sciences along the way to see what they like. S.E.E.K also includes a health and fitness component and community involvement opportunities.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

“We’re trying to teach kids life skills related to STEM and the arts so that they may at some point say, ‘I want to go to college to be an engineer,’ or ‘I want to be a front or backend coder and don’t need to go to college to make $60-$200,000 in that field,’” Sakariyawo says. Many children who enter the S.E.E.K program become little entrepreneurs. Sakariyawo tells the story of one young lady who learned how to make lip gloss and sold it for $5 to other youths in her neighborhood. “When you show kids how to make something, they often take that skill set and create something different. I’m always impressed with that and with the parents, how they become more involved after they see their kids’ reaction to the program,” Sakariyawo says. Frequent travels to Atlanta from Miami for several years led Sakariyawo to launch S.E.E.K in Georgia in 2017 and begin partnering locally

with the Young Women’s Leadership Academy, one of Coretta Scott King’s programs. In 2018, Sakariyawo quit her teaching job to work on her growing nonprofit full-time. She moved to Atlanta in 2019. Within the coming year, S.E.E.K will expand to Texas, New York, D.C. and California.

TECH KIDS Online safety app Once your child connects with the online world, it’s virtually impossible to keep up with what they’re looking at and with whom they’re chatting. Headquartered at Atlanta Tech Village, the Bark app helps keep kids safe online. Starting at $5 per month, it connects to more than 30 platforms to monitor text messages, emails and social activity for

“Two million jobs in 2020 went unfulfilled in STEM because of the lack of skills people have to work these jobs. If we can start with kids at an early age or even a later age, it opens S.E.E.K up opportunities,” seekedu.org Sakariyawo says. n @seekinc

signs of harmful interactions and content. Parents receive automatic text and email alerts when it detects a potential risk and can also decide when their child has access to the internet and what sites they can visit. bark.us

CAMP TECH Summer activities Parents, take note now for next summer: Club SciKidz offers half and full-day

STEM and STEAM camps for Pre-K through eighth grade. Past themes include American Doll STEAM Camp, QuadCopter Aerial Robotics, Adventures in Minecraft Game Design and more at locations such as the Atlanta International School in Garden Hills, St. James United Methodist Church in Brookhaven and Kingswood Church in Dunwoody. clubscikidz.com

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT Goodr offers an innovative solution for eliminating food insecurity in Atlanta STORY:

Amy Meadows

hen Jasmine Crowe moved to Atlanta from Phoenix in 2017, she fell in love with the city. But something stood out and spurred her into action. “Phoenix is a large city, and I had seen homelessness there, but I hadn’t seen so many pockets of homelessness like I did in downtown Atlanta,” Crowe says. “I wanted to do something. The next thing I knew, I had been feeding people every single week for almost four years.” Crowe, a social entrepreneur who previously founded a media platform for celebrity philanthropists and community organizations, started spending 40-plus hours each week gathering coupons and grocery shopping, purchasing as much food as possible. Then she cooked and delivered meals to hungry individuals across town. She saw the impact and wanted to take her efforts to the next level. “I had figured out how to feed people, but I knew so many were still going hungry,” she says. “I also knew that so much food goes to waste. I could see it. I started doing a lot of research. I asked businesses why they didn’t donate their food, and I got different answers. I also looked at what was taking place in other countries. And I started down this new path.” In 2018, Crowe officially started Goodr, a sustainable food surplus management platform that offers a real solution to the logistical challenges associated with food insecurity. The Goodr app, both

mobile and online, allows companies, organizations, facilities and major venues to donate prepared meals and track their surplus food donations from pickup to delivery to communities in need. The company works with airports, convention centers, stadiums, arenas and food service outposts such as Capital One Café in Buckhead. They partner with nonprofit organizations within their network to distribute the meals to individuals and families.

A Win-Win Situation “We offer ourselves as a waste management service,” says Crowe, who serves as CEO. “These organizations are already paying to throw the food away. Through Goodr, they can find a better use for that food. We can get it to the people who need it most.” What’s more, the Goodr app gives those who donate a secure ledger with which to track their surplus donations, earn tax deductions and ultimately reduce their carbon footprints. The people on the receiving end of the donations are given more than food items alone. “People end up having to go to a lot of different food banks and food pantries to piece meals together,” Crowe says. “Our goal is to make sure that they have complete meals, with a protein, a starch and a vegetable.” To date, Goodr has attracted an array of customers across Atlanta, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, State Farm Arena, Six Flags Over Georgia and Turner Broadcasting System. The company also has partnered with the Atlanta Hawks to host more than 20 pop-up grocery stores in the city. And the effort has gone nationwide, with Goodr currently being available in 12 cities across the country and working with more than 30,000 nonprofits within its network.

The Goodr app allows users to schedule and track their surplus food donations quickly and easily.

A Streamlined Process To make the process seamless, Goodr’s Software as a Service (SaaS) platform uses blockchain technology to track donations pound for pound and provide real-time reporting analytics to users who want to measure and manage their donations. From the app, customers can manage the entire process, from scheduling pickups to tracking where and when the donations are delivered. A skilled team developed the technology, and they’re always looking to improve the user experience. “We are constantly iterating,” Crowe says. “We listen to our customers, and we are always adding new features.” Crowe plans to take Goodr into more cities around the country as she strives to eradicate hunger on a large scale. “There’s so much food that goes to waste while so many people go hungry,” she says. “I’m really excited about this work. We look at what life could be like for people who would otherwise go Goodr hungry. That’s our focus, goodr.co and it feels good.” n @goodrco

IN THE PALM OF

YOUR HAND Over the last year, food delivery services have taken the mobile world by storm as people have relied on all kinds of apps to order meals, snacks and more. Here are two popular options serving the Atlanta area.

GOOD MEASURE MEALS: This online source allows you to select from more than 80 freshly prepared and nutritionally balanced meals cooked locally from scratch. The meals are delivered to your door once a week, and proceeds support local nonprofit Open Hand Atlanta. goodmeasuremeals.com CAVIAR: A web-based food pickup and delivery service, Caviar partners with top dining spots around town. If you need a suggestion for a nearby restaurant, simply choose from preselected categories such as sushi, Thai, Italian, breakfast, vegetarian or sandwich; the site offers dining options and provides estimated delivery times. trycaviar.com

Jasmine Crowe is on a mission to use innovative technology to eliminate food insecurity across the country. October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Allison Maurer Photography

COVE R S T ORY

Joe Ashkouti and Josh Lloyd are disrupting the real estate financing industry.

MEET IN THE MIDDLE FinTech startup Yieldi uses proprietary technology to put a new spin on real estate investing STORY:

Amy Meadows

osh Lloyd and Joe Ashkouti happened to be at the same boutique gym in Buckhead one morning when they struck up a conversation. Lloyd, a tech entrepreneur who had recently sold his technology startup, had started investing in real estate to transform the money he earned from his exit into a passive monthly income. Ashkouti had been in real estate development for years, playing a key role in his family’s 50-yearold firm, focused on everything from commercial shopping centers to fixand-flip residential properties. After chatting, they realized their unexpected meeting was serendipitous. “It’s fun when you meet your business partner running around a gym at 6 a.m.,” says Ashkouti, who partnered with Lloyd in 2019 to found Yieldi, a Sandy Springs-based online real estate investment platform. The goal was to create an organization to serve as both an investment firm and a private lender, offering opportunities to invest in asset-based real

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

estate deals and borrow money. The entrepreneurs wanted to take the bank out of the equation and provide options directly to clients. “We decided we should build out a two-sided marketplace,” Ashkouti says. “We wanted to have investors on one side who could come in alongside us and invest in our deals, and then we could have the borrowers come in on the other side where we could give them loans. We would act as the intermediary that connects the two. And Yieldi was born.”

Disrupting the Status Quo According to Lloyd, the key to Yieldi’s success has been its ability to use technology to streamline the real estate investment process. “It was not just about investing our money,” he says. “We wanted to create a platform for other accredited investors or companies looking for a place to invest their money and provide a good yield on a monthly basis. We said, ‘Let’s build out a marketplace where we can automate this process.’” Yieldi uses its proprietary technology in several ways. For borrowers, the underwriting technology allows the

team to look at properties across the country, score them and provide answers about loan requests within 24 hours. The platform also serves as an online portal for borrowers to upload critical documents and materials; the technology considers approximately 200 data points to help the team determine whether or not to grant a loan. The caveat: Yieldi doesn’t underwrite primary residences. All properties must be investment properties. Yieldi also uses its technology to inform potential investors about exclusive property deals while helping them set up their status as accredited investment partners; the platform then acts as a “wallet” that allows investors to send money and receive returns. Investment opportunities, compiled using Yieldi’s exclusive analytics, usually require a minimum of $25,000, and each deal includes up to five investors. Interested parties log on to the Yieldi website, search available deals, choose one they like and input the dollar amount they want to invest. “Most of our deals are gobbled Yieldi LLC up within 24 hours,” yieldi.com Ashkouti says. n @yieldi_

FANTASTIC

FINTECHS Atlanta, particularly Buckhead, is known as a bona fide hub for the financial technology (FinTech) industry. Here are two making waves.

GAS VALET: Founded by Ben McFarlin, Gas Valet allows convenience store owners to provide tech-enabled services to customers who stay in their cars while they pay for fuel, tire maintenance or convenience store items. Gas station attendants use the app to assist drivers directly at the pump. Customers can check out the platform at the Buckhead Shell Station on the corner of Powers Ferry and Roswell roads. gasvalet.me FILMHEDGE: Atlanta’s “Hollywood of the South” status made Jon Gosier recognize the need for film financing on a local level. He founded Buckhead-based FilmHedge, a FinTech firm with lending software for movie and TV production companies. Those working in film, television and media can apply for short-term financing through the website. filmhedge.com

BIRTHING

HEALTHY

BUSINESSES Incubators help startups beat the odds Michael Jacobs

bout half of startup businesses don’t last five years, and 90% eventually fail, according to national statistics. But tech entrepreneurs in the Buckhead area can improve their chances at an incubator. Most people launching tech startups have never gone through the process of developing technology, building a pitch deck, hiring an employee and finding a customer, says John Avery, the director of Georgia Tech’s tech incubator, the 41-year-old Advanced Technology Development Center. “Every time you make a mistake, it’s very costly.” Incubators like ATDC provide flexible office space, resources, advice, education, expertise and connections to people who can offer key services and funding, all within a community of companies facing similar problems. “Startups are about trying to figure out who they are and what they are to the world before they’re able to reach any kind of scale,” Avery says. Rather than smaller versions of big companies, “they’re evolutionarily different, a different species.” Buckhead has a different species of incubator in the Atlanta Tech Village, which has grown to be the nation’s fourth-largest technology startup hub since David Cumming founded it in 2013. Julie Pierre, the village’s director of community, says the hub combines the features of an incubator with an accelerator, where a community of similar-stage businesses

John Avery, who heads the Advanced Technology Development Center, calls startups “a different species.”

can gain rapid access to talent, capital and ideas. Unlike an accelerator, which brings a cohort of businesses through a program lasting several months then pushes them out, neither the village nor ATDC limits when a startup may enter or how long it may stay. The membership model used by the village and ATDC allows founders to keep full ownership of their businesses. The community itself is crucial so founders can seek advice from people facing the same stresses. ATDC is open to anyone in Georgia with a tech concept. For $25 per quarter, that person can join about 450 others in the Educate program for classes and coaching. Companies with promise can apply for ATDC’s two-tier portfolio program that provides dedicated coaches and further resources. At its peak, the program charges a couple hundred dollars a month for services in four categories: access to investors, corporate connections, campus connections and grants. The lower portfolio level, Accelerate, requires the founder to work fulltime for the business with at least one part-time employee, a viable product and a clear idea of the market. Accelerate has about 90 companies. The higher portfolio level, Signature, has around 40 companies, each with four to 20 employees and products bringing in revenue. Each year, approximately 10 companies graduate by showing sustainable sales growth, typically after three to four years in the portfolio. Avery says more than 90% of them remain viable five years after graduation. They include fleet management company ThingTech and healthcare software company Gozio Health in Buckhead, and customer success platform UserIQ in Dunwoody. Atlanta Tech Village charges a monthly fee for its three membership levels: $300 for a community membership that provides access to common spaces but not a fixed workplace, $425 for a reserved desk in an open space and $600 to $4,800 for furnished office space, based on the number of employees. The fee covers everything from workshops to pitch practice to sales

Above: In addition to a variety of flexible work spaces, Atlanta Tech Village provides the Kula Coffee Co. in the lobby and other amenities. Right: Encore at The Interlock offers an experimental mix of larger, flexible offices with the common areas of an incubator.

discussions. About 300 businesses are current village members, and more than 1,000 businesses have lived at the village since 2013. The proximity to other tech entrepreneurs is the key. “The quicker Atlanta has people rubbing shoulders and [creating a] true community around tech with Southern hospitality, and as long as we’re cool with sharing and helping each other, I think Atlanta can rise in the tech world really quickly,” says Blake Canterbury, CEO of village member Purposity. Village graduates include two companies that topped billiondollar valuations this year: sales engagement platform SalesLoft, which also went through ATDC, and scheduling app Calendly. The graduation conversation begins when a company has 40 to 60 employees, Pierre says. Georgia Tech has a new Upper Westside space called Encore at The Interlock complex for ATDC grads.

Cooper Cary

STORY:

Those companies often go through rapid growth and hiring, and struggle to match the space they’ll need at the end of a lease with what they can afford at the start. Encore offers flexible suites that can be combined or separated to help companies stay in one place for a year or two. It’s an experiment Avery thinks will help the tech startup industry, as will a new graduate-level membership ATDC is offering to keep such companies connected to the incubator community. “It’s an extra gear of the transmission that helps us finish the story to get Advanced Technology to that Development Center long-term atdc.org, @theatdc sustainable Encore company,” rapidoffices.com/ Avery says offices/encore of Encore. @rapidoffices “You can’t Atlanta Tech Village live there atlantatechvillage.com for long.” n @atltechvillage

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

COVE R S T ORY

OTHERS DOING GOOD Besides Purposity, Buckhead’s Atlanta Tech Village has provided a home for several other startups doing good:

COMMUNITY BUCKET is spreading nationally from its Buckhead base. The company combines online connections and real-life needs to create volunteer opportunities that are also social occasions. communitybucket.com

GREENPRINT provides a mix of easy ways for companies to offset their carbon impacts and reduce waste. greenprint.eco

APP GIVES PURPOSE TO GENEROSITY Purposity makes it fun to help neighbors with a click STORY:

Michael Jacobs

hildren walking into schools with holes in their shoes helped guide Blake Canterbury along the purposeful path he has followed since college. When he learned about such children from a school district’s homeless liaison—a job he didn’t know existed—Canterbury and some friends responded with the basic technology at the core of what became Purposity: a smartphone app that enables donors to meet specific, nearby needs costing $10 to $200. “We believe we have the resources in the city to meet the needs of Atlanta. We just need people to join us, download the app and help a neighbor a couple of times a year,” says Canterbury, a Brookhaven resident who serves as chief executive officer. Purposity, whose app launched in November 2018, isn’t trying to solve a problem just locally. Working from Buckhead’s Atlanta Tech Village, the company operates in more than half the 50 states and is partnering with Boys & Girls Clubs and Make-A-Wish to accelerate its national expansion. Canterbury plans to go global because the concept of neighbor helping neighbor works everywhere. The key for Purposity, he says, is to improve the experience of generosity, not just digitize it. Technology has made it easy to respond to a disaster by donating with a text, but his research found that can leave

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Purposity founder Blake Canterbury believes tech can be a key to meaningful giving.

donors unfulfilled. Purposity combines location-based technology with social components into a lifestyle brand. “If we can make generosity fun, transparent and easy, maybe millions of people would participate who never typically engage in generosity,” Canterbury says. Users can search for needs nearby and follow specific agencies, read inspirational stories and see requests for clothes, school supplies, a family dinner, a mattress or a laptop, each written with an engaging title and emphasis on the positive outcome. “The realness of the human story” resonates with donors, Canterbury says. App users can commit to meet a certain number of needs per month or year, and they receive regular reminders of those goals. Purposity also sends out notifications of the latest requests each Monday.

The process maintains confidentiality while being transparent and free to the recipient, the donor and the agency connecting them. None of the donation goes to Purposity. Users can add a tip for the company, which has relied on corporate donors and philanthropists to support its nine employees and fluctuating team of contractors. Long term, Canterbury expects sustainable revenue from helping companies improve their ESG scores, which tell investors how businesses perform on environmental, social and governance issues. The average need in the app is about $29. Requests are precise to the penny to reflect the best price Purposity can arrange. Most needs are met within a week, Canterbury says. A donor who fulfills a request with the click of a button will receive a thank-you message when the item arrives within 48 hours. “This is when you realize, ‘Wait, yesterday, there was a kid without a pair of shoes. Today, they have a brand-new pair of shoes because I took 30 seconds out of my day,’” Canterbury says. A self-described “big faith guy” who grew up in Griffin, Georgia, he aimed for a baseball career. But he broke his back weightlifting as a college freshman, then had his playing days ended by a pitch that shattered his hand a couple of years later. Mentors helped him realize that assisting others, not being an athlete, was at the core of his purpose. He first delved into applying tech-

INFINITE GIVING was started in the spring by former Atlanta Tech Village Vice President Karen Houghton with $500,000 invested by village founder David Cummings, other village veterans and additional tech community leaders. The company offers a low-cost, automated investment platform to help nonprofits break from the perpetual fundraising grind. infinitegiving.com

nology to generosity when he ran a Twitter campaign to help families buy diapers after the September 2009 Atlanta flood. That success launched BeRemedy, which used social media to connect donors to nearby needs. When an earthquake struck Haiti in 2010, Canterbury quit his job as the creative director for a web development company so he could run social media for relief efforts in the island nation. Haiti helped make him the man a school employee contacted several years later to solve the needs of homeless students. Now 36, Canterbury found time in June 2016 to marry an accountant, Dana, whom he says provides the brains behind his dreams. They have a 3-year-old son and a 1½-yearold daughter. “Between growing a tech start-up and two kids, there’s zero sleep in our house right now,” Canterbury says. But they have purpose, something he says too many people lack, and without it, the pursuit of happiness leads to emptiness. He advocates deriving a purpose statement from three questions: What breaks your heart? What are you great at? What do you want to be remembered by? Canterbury envisions future greatness for Purposity through an artificial-intelligence-aided expansion into all areas of generosity, from crowdfunding to volunteering. Just as people turn to Facebook for friends and Google for information, he says, they’ll look to Purposity for Purposity ways to do good purposity.com in the world. n @purposity

UNICORNS AND OTHER BUSINESS WONDERS STORY:

Michael Jacobs

FAST-GROWING STARTUPS WORK THEIR MAGIC IN FINTECH, CRYPTO, SALES AND SECURITY

uckhead and neighboring areas are packed with tech-driven startup successes, including several that have topped $1 billion in valuation. In addition to those “unicorns,” this list notes many businesses named in the September issue of Inc. magazine as being among the 5,000 fastestgrowing private U.S. companies.

rent subsidies. The company is No. 91 on the Inc. 5000. benevate.com

in March to expand. dcblox.com

$210 million in April on top of $300 million in December 2020, setting its valuation at $5.3 billion. onetrust.com

FullStory in Buckhead was founded Bitcoin Depot is a Buckhead-based company for turning old-fashioned dollars into Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies through ATMs and online. It’s No. 357 on the Inc. 5000. bitcoindepot.com, @bitcoindepot

in 2014 to help businesses improve customers’ digital experiences by, for instance, fixing bad links. It received a $103 million investment in August that valued the company at $1.8 billion. It’s No. 1,048 on the Inc. 5000.

RateForce, another Atlanta Tech Village business, provides technology to compare prices and purchase auto insurance in 46 states. The 6-yearold company is No. 92 on the Inc. 5000. rateforce.com, @rateforcellc

fullstory.com, @fullstoryhq

Artis Technologies is downtown but was founded by veterans of Sandy Springs-based financial technology unicorn GreenSky and was incubated at Atlanta Tech Village and the Advanced Technology Development Center. The platform integrates merchant websites and community banks and credit unions to arrange point-of-purchase consumer loans. Artis received a $7 million investment in July on top of $3 million earlier.

IRONSCALES, No. 618 on the Inc. 5000, applies artificial intelligence to a self-learning security system protecting email against phishing attacks. The Sandy Springs company was founded in Israel in 2014. ironscales.com,

LeaseQuery in Dunwoody provides a Calendly Founder/CEO Tope Awotona

Calendly, incubated at Buckhead’s grows enterprise software businesses. With headquarters in Sandy Springs and Toronto, the 5-year-old company is the top Georgia business on the Inc. 5000 and is 16th overall. banyansoftware.com

Benevate, based at Buckhead’s Atlanta Tech Village, runs a platform for companies to offer employees housing benefits, from down payments to

graduate based in Midtown, helps sellers strengthen their engagement with buyers. After founder/CEO Kyle Porter established a $1.1 billion valuation by raising $100 million in January, the company topped $100 million in annual recurring revenue in August and placed 1,210th on the Inc. 5000. salesloft.com, @salesloft

@ironscalesltd

heyartis.com

Banyan Software buys, holds and

SalesLoft, an Atlanta Tech Village

Atlanta Tech Village and based in Midtown, raised $350 million in January, establishing a value of more than $3 billion for founder/CEO Tope Awotona’s scheduling app. calendly.com, @calendlyhq

DC Blox, No. 371 on the Inc. 5000, runs data centers across the Southeast from its Brookhaven base. The company secured $187 million in financing

cloud-based platform for accountants to meet compliance standards and address other financial decisions. It’s No. 266 on the Inc. 5000 after being 29th in 2020. It expanded its leadership team in July. leasequery.com, @leasequery

OneTrust, now based in London as well as Sandy Springs, earned the top spot on the 2020 Inc. 5000 through applications helping businesses comply with privacy regulations and improve customer trust. It is currently No. 132. Founded in 2016, the company raised

SalesLoft Founder/CEO Kyle Porter

RUBICON TAPS INTO CRYPTO CRAZE NEW START-UP HELPS INVESTORS GET A GRIP ON DIGITAL CURRENCY

reg Johnson knew he was onto something when he overheard two women in The Fresh Market trying to make sense of cryptocurrency. “They were asking what ‘weebles’ were,” he says. Even though the women had botched the name (it’s Webull, a trading platform), they confirmed what Johnson already suspected: Crypto, or digital or virtual currency, was getting noticed by people outside the financial world. Some folks might know it’s a system that allows buyers to pay real money (dollars) for coins or tokens that can securely buy goods and services online. But

most may not be quite sure what it is, how it works and how to get a hold of it. As CEO of Rubicon Crypto, Johnson spends a lot of time educating investors about digital currency and helping them buy it. “We help people understand what

crypto is and isn’t, and how to invest in it,” says the Buckhead resident with a 25-year track record as a financial advisor. “Right now, there’s so much noise, static and hype around the topic.” Johnson moved into the crypto world when he accepted an invitation to be an advisor to a group organizing the fledgling company. “I saw a window of opportunity to get involved and become a founder, and I decided it was something I wanted to go into 100%. I’m excited about the long-term value of crypto assets.” The company offers crypto opportunities that mimic models investors are used to. “It’s much like a mutual fund product that provides diversification,” Johnson says. “About 3 to 5% is the amount people should have in this category,

STORY:

H.M. Cauley

but we’re seeing people way over that, so we try to bring fundamental analysis and discipline to portfolio management. When you have professional management and patience, a small piece can have a huge impact on the total investment package.” Johnson also sees the crypto industry playing an increasingly significant role in the city. “Both Atlanta and Buckhead will have an outsized role because of the reputation we have as a global epicenter of the fintech industry, and that’s very compatible with crypto business models. As the industry matures with more regulation and investment, our city stands to benefit in an outsized way, and that’s why we chose Rubicon Crypto to plant a flag rubiconcrypto.com @rubiconcrypto here.” n

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

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October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

**Packages & memberships available**

(678) 696-9004 @cryoevolutionatl www.cryoevolution.com

RE V I E W | DRI N K S | F O ODI E J OU RNA L | TA S T E M A K E R | RE S TAU R A N T S

SIMPLY DELICIOUS

TASTEMAKER

Risky Business P76

Brash is a place for the community to work, meet and mingle around a simple product: coffee.

"Small spaces, good product and genuine interaction is my recipe for success," says Brash Coffee founder Chris Mcleod.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

REVIEW

Satisfying Southern

Chamblee Hot Chicken gives the iconic Southern dish international flair with Szechuan-style heat and flavor.

Chamblee’s Southbound serves high-quality fare in low-key environs STORY:

Hope S. Philbrick PHOTOS: Joann Vitelli

hether you eat to live or live to eat, you won’t be disappointed at Southbound in Chamblee. Whatever your dining mood, Southbound is ready to suit. Grab a seat at the bar or settle at a table in the main dining room when you want to be surrounded by community. Order to-go for pick up (a staffer can bring it out to your car) or delivery by DoorDash when you want to stay home in your stretchy pants. Relax at an umbrellaed picnic table on the patio when you want to socialize your puppy or enjoy amazing weather. Just come hungry because this menu is packed with things worth devouring. The feeling upon entering—and even when phoning—is like being welcomed to the neighborhood. If there’s an assumption that lingers in the air, it’s the quiet confidence that, of course, you’re going to like it here. There is much to like. The space has high-ceilings and minimalistic decor dominated by weathered wood, exposed bricks and dangling bulb lights. The overall effect is casual elegance. Chairs are comfortable, and tables are easy to move

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

around to accommodate gatherings of any size and even distancing, if necessary. The main dining room and bar are separated by a short wall and glass, so the impressive selection of craft distilled spirits on bar shelves can be seen from across the room. Freight and MARTA tracks are across Peachtree Road, so guests sometimes feel the vibrations as the trains roll by. The menu presents Southern comfort food with international influences, resulting in creations such as the popular Southern ramen with pulled pork, collards, blackeyed pea relish, chow chow and a deviled egg. Variety ensures there’s something for just about any preference, dietary need, budget and hunger level, whether you crave a snack or multi-course feast. Seasonal, fresh ingredients, typically sourced within a two-hour drive of Chamblee, elevate dishes such as shrimp cocktail and seared sea scallops, as does the fact that several items are vegan, vegetarian or gluten-free. Competent preparations, artful presentations and enjoyable flavors are consistent reminders that dining out can be a genuine treat however well you cook at home. Executive Chef Bethany Colvin changes the menu about three times a year, though popular favorites stick around. As the menu

shifts from summer to fall, proteins remain, but pairings shift to warmer, spicier creations. Year-round options include deviled eggs with bacon jam, Southern ramen, smoked short rib, Chamblee hot chicken (Szechuan, not Nashville, style) and classics such as fried chicken. Time your visit right and while filling your water glass the server will say, “It’s Wednesday, so we have fried chicken.” One bite and you’ll immediately start clearing your calendar of future Wednesday evening obligations to keep coming back for the juicy meat with crispy coating. “Our fried chicken is dairyfree and cooked in our gluten-free fryers,” says Mike Plummer, who owns Southbound with his wife, Amanda Averill. The couple also own the Nocturnal Brewing Company pub in Hayesville, North Carolina. The burger is offered as a double or triple stack topped with American cheese, house pickles, onion and comeback sauce. It’s possible to omit certain items but not get a single patty. That would throw off the meat-to-bread ratio. The loaded burger may be more than you want or need to eat, but it’s hard to regret a bite. The seasoned fries are broad squares, more tender than crispy, with pepper notes to counteract the sweet housemade ketchup.

Above: Smoked Short Rib is topped with house BBQ sauce, slaw and fried onion straws. Left: The popular vegetable plate presents cornbread with three items that change daily.

Above: Pimento Cheese is served with sweet green tomato chutney, savory bacon jam and toasty ciabatta.

If a menu description intrigues, give the dish a try.

Above: The SB Double Stack Burger with American cheese, house pickles, onions and comeback sauce is served with seasoned fries. Left: Wild Georgia Shrimp with a lemon, garlic, wine and butter sauce—and ciabatta for soaking up every drop. Right: Carrot Cake is made in a traditional style that hits sweet and savory notes.

Wild Georgia shrimp are scrumptious, tender, perennial best-sellers whether presented cold with tangy dipping sauce or hot with lemon-garlic-wine sauce. “The shrimp are driven up every week from the Georgia/Florida coast,” Plummer says. “We believe they’re the highest quality shrimp you can get,” Averill adds. The popular vegetable plate presents cornbread alongside a trio of items that change daily. “Our collard greens are vegan,” Plummer says. “To keep it tasty, we smoke the tomatoes so they have that smokiness without the meat,” Averill says. Fried Brussels sprouts get mouths watering at first sniff and live up to expectations. Mac and cheese hits the right flavor notes even if the texture is a bit clumpy. Kale Caesar will convert any salad hater into an enthusiast with its well-balanced bitter and tart

flavors. Pimento cheese is a winner, light on the mayo yet creamy enough to spread on bread and flavorful without too much heat. Among the dishes presented this summer was seared scallops with watermelon, serrano, mint, guajillo chili, lime and avocado puree. The unexpected combination proved greater than the sum of its parts. Lesson learned: If a menu description intrigues, give the dish a try. Save room for pleasantly nostalgic desserts such as banana pudding and carrot cake that are made in line with traditional recipes like grandma used. The bar menu showcases wines that are sustainably and biodynamically farmed, craft beers and classic as well as creative cocktails. Whether you order the perennial favorite Manhattan, Old Fashioned or a seasonal concoction, well-balanced flavors

slip across the palate as easily as stocking feet on hardwoods. Even mocktails prove to be sophisticated sippers. Inside and out, Southbound is a pleasure. It’s been around for seven years and hopefully has a long life ahead. n

SOUTHBOUND 678.580.5579 southboundatl.com, @southboundatlanta Prices: (dinner): small plates: $4-$18; mains: $14-$33; sides: $4-$6; desserts: $6-$9. Recommended: Pimento cheese, wild Georgia shrimp, fried chicken (on Wednesdays), fried Brussels sprouts, short rib, carrot cake. Bottom line: A popular contemporary Southern eatery that delivers high quality across the board at competitive prices in a low-key environment.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

D R I NKS

l a c i g a M —And Often Misunderstood— Mezcal T

hanks to its versatility for making cocktails, mezcal has long been a favorite of cocktail enthusiasts and bartenders, and now it’s surging in general popularity. Frequently confused as merely a smoky sibling to tequila, mezcal is often misunderstood. Its unique qualities enable it to highlight different flavor spectrums of a drink. Similar to how all bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon, all tequila is mezcal, but not all mezcal is tequila. In this case, both are made by distilling the core—called the piña—of the agave plant. Of more than 200 species of agave, about 40 can be used for mezcal production, but only blue agave can be used for tequila. Place matters, too. Ninety percent of mezcal is produced in Oaxaca in southwestern Mexico. Tequila is mainly made in the state of Jalisco (also where mariachi music originated). After harvest, the large, spiky leaves are sliced off, revealing the heart of the agave. Here is where the largest difference (and all the talk of smoke) comes in. The piñas need to be cooked to transform their starches. For most tequilas, this happens in ovens. In contrast, most mezcal piñas are arranged over red hot stones in wood-fired earthen pits, roasting for days and taking on the flavor of smoke. Both kinds of spirits undergo similar last stages of production, where the cores are crushed, fermented and distilled. Aging is what separates types of mezcal. Most fall into the Joven/

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

GET TO KNOW THE SPIRIT WITH A TASTE OF PLACE STORY:

Angela Hansberger

sweet and smoky Xicaru Mezcal and finished with a spicy kick of fresh ginger. If you’re truly an explorer of mezcal, look no further than Casi Cielo, which translates to “almost heaven.” The restaurant boasts the largest If it grows together, it goes Chido & Padre's kicks up La Llorona at Casi Cielo blends selection in Attogether. The Holy Elixir at Miller healthful ingredients with ginger the spice of three peppers with lanta with more Union combines mezcal and aloe and mezcal in El Bad Bunny. floral mezcal and bright lime juice liqueur for a desert experience. for a well rounded cocktail. than 80 options to choose from, including flights that arrive with house “Mexico calls mezcal, the beautifully Blanco/Silver categories that are made grasshopper salt, an earthy and crafted spirit that is such a part of un-aged or aged in stainless or herbal accoutrement. The verdant La the culture, its Holy Elixir,” she said plastic for fewer than two months. Llorona offers great expressions of of the drink’s naming. Reposado is mezcal aged in oak for vegetal, citrus and floral notes when Celebrating the food regions two to 12 months. Añejo is aged ordered with Banhez Joven Mezcal. of Oaxaca, Puebla and Sinaloa, Chido for more than one year in oak. The rich mix of mezcal, lime juice, & Padre’s has an extensive mezcal Mezcal’s taste is expressive of agave and list to accompany the homemade the process and the plant base with a pepper tortillas, moles and hand-smashed green, herbal notes and often a hint DETAILS puree of jalaguacamole. The cocktail program of smoke. At Westside’s Miller Union, peno, hababrings out the flavors of mezcal head bartender Angela Guthmiller Casi Cielo nero and servarieties in delightfully balanced adds another drought-tolerant 404.549.9411 casicielo.com rano comes beverages that are equally visually succulent into the mix. The Holy @casicieloatl rimmed with appealing. El Bad Bunny is a bright, Elixir cocktail fuses mezcal with the house made zingy mix that includes a traditional fresh scent and vegetal elements Chido & Padre’s 404.848.9100 chili powder. Dominican drink that is both of Chareau aloe liqueur along with chicoandpadres.com It’s a great nutritious and refreshing. Jugo de cucumber, basil and a celery @chidoandpadres match for zanahoria y naranja sounds unusual, shrub. Aloe adds a softness, brings Miller Union the eatery’s but it’s simply a blend of carrot out floral aromatics and hits off 678.733.8550 Oaxacaand orange juice, chock-full of the smoky body of mezcal, while millerunion.com inspired beta-carotene, B6, vitamin K and the other ingredients keep things @millerunionatl dishes. n vitamin C. It’s stirred together with lively, vivid and refreshing overall.

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

FOODIE JOURNAL

Culinary News & Notes

BY:

Claire Ruhlin

Adelina Social Goods' Sarah Noble knew her cocktail-of-themonth delivery kit would be a huge hit with the home entertaining set.

SOUTH CITY KITCHEN’S MUST-MAKE SEASONAL DISH For a warming fall dish, whip up this cozy Brussels sprouts recipe from South City Kitchen Buckhead Executive Chef Chip Ulbrich. Find more fall-forward dishes on the restaurant's menu, which now features new autumn additions.

Entertain like an expert AUTUMN ENTERTAINING TIPS FROM THE OWNER OF ADELINA SOCIAL GOODS

with spiced fig jam or wine-poached pears wrapped in prosciutto with a dollop of tangy bleu cheese.

Any advice for making fall gatherings feel extra-special?

eing a star host is the name of the game at the Westside’s Adelina Social Goods, offering stationery, party supplies, gifts and home decor. The store has also launched the Adelina Cocktail Club, a monthly cocktail-of-the-month delivery kit that includes ingredients, barware and educational tips. Here, we chat with owner Sarah Noble about her entertaining tricks.

How can someone create a beautiful bar cart?

Every bar cart should include one or two gorgeous decanters where you can store your most-used

spirits; a cocktail shaker set and mixing glass; and a set of extraspecial glassware. We also keep a set of cocktail napkins handy, and we love to display craft bitters and a cocktail recipe book on our bar cart, too. The perfect finishing touch is a bud vase with a fresh-cut bloom to soften things up. What do you recommend serving for a cozy evening?

Fall entertaining is all about savoring the changing seasons and tucking into warm flavors. Serve simple foods with bold, spice-infused flavors like a great cheese board

FOOD NEWS

Adelina Social Goods 404.565.1930 adelinasocialgoods.com @adelinasocial

n Restaurateur Jesús Oñate Jr., whose Atlanta concepts are Zapata, Taqueria on Broad and Monterrey of Marietta, recently opened his latest concept, Antiguo Lobo, in downtown Chamblee. The Mexican restaurant and tequila bar features cuisine made with primarily local ingredients, along with agave-based spirits and specialty cocktails. antiguolobo.com

Mexican flavors made with local ingredients are Antiguo Lobo signatures.

A favorite fall party spot for us is next to the fire pit. I’ll make homemade marshmallows in a few fun flavors like bourbon vanilla bean, blackberry black pepper or Luxardo cherry swirl and let friends roast them over the fire and sip hot cider spiked with bourbon. It’s an entirely make-ahead, low-maintenance party that everyone loves. Don’t forget to provide blankets and lots of wet wipes for cleanup. n

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

n The team behind Buckhead's Mission + Market has opened a new Italian concept called Tre Vele in the

Brussels Sprouts & Farm Egg Serves 4

2 lbs Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed 4 large eggs 1 cup French’s Crispy Onions 1 tbsp sliced chives 3 tbsp miso paste 1 qt roasted vegetable stock Peel and separate the Brussels sprouts leaves into a bowl. Rinse with cold water. Bring vegetable stock to a simmer and whisk in miso paste. Keep hot for serving. Fill a medium-sized pot 3/4 of the way with salted water and bring to a simmer. Crack eggs into the pot and poach for 3 minutes. Place sprouts leaves on the bottom of four large dinner bowls, pour 1 cup of broth over each, place 1 egg in the middle and top with crispy onions and chives. South City Kitchen Buckhead 404.815.6677 southcitykitchen.com @southcitykitchen.atl

former Three Sheets location in Sandy Springs. Specializing in handmade pasta, the restaurant features classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. treveleatl.com

Velvet Taco’s second Atlanta location is now open at The Interlock development in West Midtown. Like the restaurant’s Buckhead location, expect a diverse lineup of more than 20 creative tacos (think chicken and waffle, Korean fried rice and shrimp and grits). velvettaco.com

TO YOUR COMMUNITY Now Accepting Toy Donations!

We’re Collecting Toys Until Friday, December 17th *Donated toys must be new & unwrapped for ages 2-14.

PLEASE DROP OFF TOYS AT OUR LOCATION DURING NORMAL BUSINESS HOURS.

Monday - Friday: 9am - 4pm, Saturday & Sunday: Closed 3880 Roswell Road, Atlanta, GA 30342

www.GeorgiaPrimaryBank.com 404-231-4100 October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

TA S T E M AKE R

From Australia to Atlanta, BRASH Coffee founder Chris Mcleod takes chances at every turn STORY:

Carly Cooper

Risky Business B

RASH Coffee Roasters founder Chris Mcleod is a calculated risk taker. An Australian native and triathlete, he spent 13 years trading commodities and currencies in Singapore and Hong Kong before moving to Atlanta with his American wife in 2012. With zero experience in hospitality, Mcleod noticed a void in the market and seized on it, launching BRASH out of a shipping container in the Westside Provisions District in 2016. About a mile away, BRASH has its own roastery, where fresh beans are roasted multiple times a week. “When I moved here, I had to travel 7 miles from my house in Buckhead to get a cup of coffee that was very average. It was a coffee desert,” he says. “In Australia, we don’t call it ‘specialty coffee’ because all the coffee is good, and there are cafes on every corner.” He started BRASH as a way to get involved in the local community and bring Sydney’s cafe culture to Atlanta. Five years and one pandemic later, he’s grown the business to include brick-and-mortar locations in the

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Atlanta History Center, Midtown (with digital agency, Huge) and a retrofitted 1968 Citroen mobile shop dubbed BRASH Beast. Early next year, he’s branching out into the restaurant world with BRASH Kitchen, a farmfresh cafe in The Works development on the westside. We spoke to him to learn more. What makes BRASH unique? I believe in genuine interaction between the barista and the customer. If the barista is the first person you see in the morning, you want it to be a positive interaction. We have direct relationships with the coffee farmers in Central and South America. I can call the farmer and say that I need 30 bags. That way, he is paid the full price per pound [as opposed to going through a middleman]. It’s all about quality; if anything is going to lessen the quality of a product, I won’t do it. How do you forecast opportunities for the brand to expand? Seeing the success of the brand during

FUN FACT Mcleod is a founding investor of the popular Australian menswear company M.J. Bale.

the pandemic gave me the confidence to invest rather than divert. We were viewed as an essential business and didn’t close for a day. We were able to use that time to innovate and think about what’s next for coffee: a mobile app and coffee with an amazing food program to go with it at BRASH Kitchen. How do you decide when to take on risk? I get some of my risk-taking skills from being a currency trader. I understand when to grow an opportunity and when to cut a loser. I’d like to grow BRASH to being Atlanta’s No. 1 specialty coffee player. I’d like to expand the small store format ITP and OTP—shipping containers are very scalable. Once you’ve tried specialty coffee, you’re not going back. I only see the market for it growing. How does coffee play a role in your health- and fitness-focused lifestyle? It’s built into my routine. I love swimming, running and cycling. Prior to doing an hour of endurance work, I only drink black coffee—no food.

I’m at my peak when under physical duress. My ability to perform under stress allows me to be a good business owner, assessing risks and finding solutions. I don’t get flustered. What kind of endurance events have you participated in? In 2011, I cycled around the circumference of Australia with six others and raised $1.5 million for special needs kids. We cycled 150 miles a day for 80 days. I’m competing in a South African Ironman in November. What else do you do for fun? When I’m not working or training, I’m a dedicated dad. My daughters are 15 and 19. I travel all over the country with the 15-year-old’s soccer team. Owning a small business, I have the flexibility to spend five days in San Diego on a soccer pitch. n BRASH COFFEE AND BRASH KITCHEN brashcoffee.com

Fusion Academy Buckhead is a fully accredited 6th-12th private school offering classes for credit and tutoring for students to fill learning gaps, recover failed credits, or get ahead in a tough subject.

Get your student re-engaged with learning after school or even this fall for full-time enrollment. We offer engaging one to one math and reading recovery. In addition, we offer STEM courses, film production, recording arts, animation, and even Japanese!

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October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

FEATURED RESTAURANTS A sampling of great eats in and around Buckhead BY: Wendell

Brock, Rebecca Cha and Angela Hansberger

PHOTOS: Sara

Hanna, Joann Vitelli

ARNETTE’S CHOP SHOP Arnette’s will dazzle you with its no-expense-spared interiors, cosmopolitan wine list and, of course, its meat. Chicago-sourced ribeyes, strips and tomahawk steaks are the main attraction supported by a top-notch cast of appetizers and sides, from decadent roasted marrow and wagyu beef tartare to classic wedge salad and Dauphinoise potatoes. (There are also oysters and caviar, if you don’t mind shelling out a few extra bucks.) Favorite items include the 50-day wetaged cowboy ribeye; the bliss-inducing lobster spaghetti; and the shaved prime rib sandwich, a real scenestealer. Don’t forget to ask about the members-only knife club. Appetizers, salads and sandwiches: $9-$25 Shrimp, oysters and caviar: $13-$150 Hearth-roasted shellfish, fish and steaks: $13-$140 Desserts: $8-$12 arnetteschopshop.com

BLUE RIDGE GRILL For more than 20 years, Blue Ridge Grill has been a mecca for Buckhead power lunchers and chill evening diners alike. Whether for business or romance, BRG is a paragon of hospitality, and each guest is embraced like a VIP. Standard crowd-pleasers on the Euro-American menu include grilled Georgia trout, French-boned chicken

with wild mushrooms and filet mignon with Vidalia onions. Small plates and sides of iron skillet mussels, Caesar salad with crisp Beeler bacon, custardlike corn soufflé and (off-menu item) fried pickles with buttermilk dipping sauce are absolute must-tries. If cost is an issue, call ahead, as menu prices are not advertised online. Lunch: $9-$42 Dinner: $13-$62 blueridgegrill.com

BONE GARDEN CANTINA Beyond the colorful Día de Muertos dining room decor, the well-curated mezcal and tequila selections and the uber-friendly service, Bone Garden Cantina offers some of the most authentic Mexican cooking in Atlanta. Tastier guacamole and hot dipping queso you will not find, and we’ve tried! The tender-tothe-bone Mexican pork ribs are meaty, miraculous bites of earthy richness, and the tomatillo-rich pozole verde soup is pure south-of-the-border goodness. Garlic-sautéed shrimp enchiladas and adobo steak quesadilla seasoned with guajillo chile are among many fine familiar classics. Smaller plates include exemplary tamales and tacos. Appetizers: $2.50-$9.50 Soups and salads: $4.50-$9.00 Tamales, tacos and empanadas: $3.50-$5.00 Mains: $7.50-$12.75 bonegardencantina.com Casual elegance at its best: the lunchtime lobster BLT with fresh fried potato chips from Blue Ridge Grill.

Le Colonial's Cari ga (chicken curry) is an exceptionally executed dish, a bubbling hot bowl of pungent aromatics, finely diced sweet mango, yam, green beans and chicken.

THE CAPITAL GRILLE BUCKHEAD Despite the clubby decor (think leather oxblood booths, mounted animal heads, mahogany paneling), The Capital Grille is a blend of high-class aesthetic and Lowcountry hospitality. Your obliging waiter will walk you through the classic steakhouse menu heavy on in-house, dry-aged cuts. It’s a tough call. The juicy, 22-ounce, bone-in ribeye will make you swoon, but so will the sizzling, Kona-crusted New York strip. There’s top-notch fish and poultry, too, and gussied-up sides like lobster mac ’n’ cheese and soy-glazed Brussels sprouts. Salads run the gamut from the classic iceberg wedge to the continental burrata with heirloom tomatoes. Wine lovers will thrill over the world-class, 350-plus bottle wine list. Appetizers, salads: $10-$110 Mains: $33-$59 Sides: $11-$18 Desserts: $11 thecapitalgrille.com

F&B Like its predecessor, the much-loved former Brasserie le Coze, F&B delivers timeless Provençal fare in a classic brasserie atmosphere. The menu is bolstered by comfort dishes portioned with hunger in mind, but it’s also fortified with lighter salads, sandwiches and soups. Classics such as steak frites

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

and skate wing with a brown butter sauce are deeply satisfying in their rustic charm. Mussels come piled high in a white wine and shallot broth, along with crusty French bread for sopping. The drink menu is built on interesting French wines and remarkable cocktails such as the well-balanced, bourbonbased Line of Destiny. Appetizers: $6-$18 Entrees: $11-$42 Desserts: $6-$8 fandbatl.net

GRINDHOUSE KILLER BURGERS The Piedmont Avenue location of burger-preneur Alex Brounstein’s success story is where you go for a superbly flavorful, juice-dripping, napkin-soaking beef patty with all the trimmings. Though you can customize your sandwich, consider the signature “Cowboy” treatment: cheddar, bacon, barbecue sauce and a beer-battered onion ring—for a slim $7.99. To gild the lily, add an order of Frings (that’s fries and rings), and ask for a side of the chipotle ranch dipping sauce. Here you can quaff a draft brew, slurp down a boozy shake, like the banana-flavored Puddin’ Out, or sip a “Snooty” cocktail such as the mezcal-based El Guapo. Starters and sides: $2.50-$5.50 Burgers: $4.50-$7.99 grindhouseburgers.com

LE COLONIAL Le Colonial’s website describes this upscale French-Vietnamese restaurant as “a luxurious escapist oasis,” and we’d agree. Amidst potted palms, starched white tablecloths and whirring vintage fans, glitzed-up diners are transported back to 1920s Vietnam and enjoy the culinary synthesis of the era. Favorite street fare such as banh mi thit nuong (chargrilled pork sandwich) and pho bo (beef noodle soup) get the white glove treatment with chef Richard Lee’s skillful way with Asian herbs and spices. Classic favorites of crispy panseared chicken dumplings, garlicky beef rice noodle rolls and curried green papaya salad will have you hankering for a one-way ticket to Saigon. Small plates: $12-$24 Soups and salads: $10-$18 Large plates: $14-$60 Sides: $4-$11 Desserts: $12-$14 lecolonialatlanta.com

THE ONE SUSHI + This glam space wedged in the back corner of Brookhaven’s Town Village is a neighborhood hot spot for Japanese small plates. The freshest fish flown in from Japan’s Tsukiji Market will impress the discerning sushi eater, while colorful rolls with clever names please the occasional dabbler. Sharable offerings and inspired snacks of zesty, yellowtail jalapeño shots and crispy fried bang bang rock shrimp are as fun as they are tasty. The drinking experience is worth celebrating as well, with a large selection of sake, shochu and whisky. We recommend the smoked toro, tender slices of tuna served under a dome of hickory smoke and the bulgogi-like Gangnam-style roll. Dinner: $6-$37 theonesushiplus.com

PASTA VINO You can surely find trendier pizza parlors or posher places to eat Italian in Atlanta. But if you’re looking for old-fashioned linguini with clam sauce or chicken Florentine in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere with a loyal following, this Buckhead favorite has got you covered. The restaurant is beloved by many for its home-style cooking, casual ambience, reasonable prices and a staff of servers who have acquired faithful customers of their own. Owner Nancy Powell treasures her crew, most of whom have been on the job for more than a decade. Given the refined state of Italian dining in America today, Pasta Vino is not likely to win any awards for innovation or

So savory and flavorful, the Georgia pecan waffles at Treehouse don’t need syrup.

inspiration, but it remains a perfectly fine, frequently delicious trattoria.

Mangia bene, but don’t forget to try Pricci’s world-class tiramisu.

the New York strip au poivre. He also curates a mighty fine list of craft beers.

Starters and salads: $2-$10 Entrees: $10-$22 pastavinoatlanta.com

Appetizers and salads: $8-$26 Pizza and pastas: $17-$27 Entrees: $24-$46 Desserts: $6-$15 buckheadrestaurants.com

Brunch: $8-$10 Appetizers: $3-$13 Burgers and sandwiches: $7-$10 Large plates: $17-$22 treehouseatlanta.com

TREEHOUSE

ZAFRON

Occasionally, sitting at Treehouse feels more like a cookout. Neighbors and regulars have been coming here for the familiar comfort food and laid-back atmosphere for more than 20 years. Brunch is a big deal, with a large menu and generous portions of favorites such as the Georgia pecan waffle and Southern-style eggs Benedict covered with sausage gravy. It’s all about the patio here, and dogs are welcome guests. The chef works to enliven old favorites with as much attention to the all-American fried chicken sandwich as

If you’re like us, the minute you hear Persian foodie buzzwords such as mirza ghasemi, hummus and kabob, your mouth starts watering, and you’ve got one foot out the door. If you’re smart, you’ll head directly to Zafron in Sandy Springs. Once seated, a beaming server will bring a complimentary sabzi plate and pita from the wood-burning oven. That extra-mile hospitality spills over into all areas, especially the food: world-class lamb kabob, fire-roasted salmon and the “Zafron special” made with chile, mango and eggplant. Plenty of classic small plates and rice dishes are joined with a few East-meets-West treats such as spicy Zafron chicken wings and tiramisu.

PRICCI Opened in 1991, Pricci is the Italian jewel in Buckhead Life Restaurant Group’s crown. This Buckhead institution still aspires to (and delivers) exceptional service, superlative Italian cooking and a vibe that’s both elegant and inclusive. Nothing says buon appetito like silky burrata Pugliese (cream filled mozzarella), tangy parmesan and anchovy-rich Caesar salad and aromatic steamed cozze (mussels in tomatogarlic sauce). Barbera-braised short rib ravioli, pecorino-sauced cacio e pepe and pizzas of all varieties are favorites, but if you’re extra peckish, order the Dutch-imported 16-ounce veal chop. Inviting and casual, Pasta Vino triumphs with classics like eggplant Parmesan.

Starters and salads: $5- $9 Wraps (lunch only): $12 Entrees: $12 - $32 Sides and rice: $3 - $7 Desserts: $5 - $7 persianrestaurantsandysprings.com Note: Prices and menu items may have changed since original publication.

Hungry for more? Visit the Simply Buckhead website to read all of our Restaurant Reviews! simplybuckhead.com

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

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P.O. Box 11633 Atlanta, GA30355 404-538-9895 simplybuckhead.com

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

E V E N T S | S C E N E | C H A RI TA B L E

SIMPLY HAPPENING EVENTS BY:

Ginger Strejcek

Sample a diverse portfolio of whiskies at this distinguished tasting event with private masterclasses led by industry pros.

SPIRIT QUEST WHISKY EXPO RAISES THE BAR IN BUCKHEAD

hiskey-lovers of all walks can distill a little knowledge about their elixir of choice at Whiskies of the World on Nov. 6 at the InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta. The epic tasting experience, billed as one of the largest in the country, features hundreds of whiskies to sample, along with culinary bites by InterContinental chefs, educational masterclasses and the optional cigar to foster a deeper appreciation of the complexities of the brown spirit. “Our Atlanta event is one of the most interesting with a great mix of well-known brands combined with amazing craft brands,” says Douglas Smith, proprietor of Whiskies of the World. “This city is a spectacular foodie destination with incredible bars.” The evening spotlights more than 200 distilled spirits from around the globe, as well as their makers and ambassadors,

connecting consumers and brands through curated experiences, Smith says. While the full pour list and classes are still under wraps, Balcones Distilling, Uncle Nearest and Old Dominick are in the lineup at this year’s event, which benefits the Atlanta Rotary. Guests ages 21 and up can sip and swirl with a $100 general admission ticket from 7:15-9 p.m. or go VIP ($150) for early entrance at 6:30 p.m., priority class reservations and private access to additional offerings. Class fees are $5; cigars, $10. Dress code is business casual attire and COVID-19 procedures are in place.

WHISKIES OF THE WORLD whiskiesoftheworld.com/events/atlanta @whiskiesoftheworld

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

E V E NTS [ N E A RBY ]

Atlanta is the global headquarters of the world’s first Illuminarium that offers a full sensory experience through state-of-the-art projection and audio systems.

Out of Africa TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE AT THIS ATLANTA BELTLINE VENUE Embark on an epic adventure to Africa in a virtual journey so real you can feel the ground-shaking stomp of an elephant and the low-frequency roar of a lion. “WILD: A Safari Experience” is a sweeping spectacle of sights, sounds, smells and sensations, brought to life by the new Illuminarium Experiences venue on the Atlanta BeltLine. Visitors can get an up-close and personal look at the world’s most exotic animals in their natural habitats—filmed on location across the majestic landscapes

of South Africa, Botswana, Kenya and Tanzania—in an immersive, 360-degree environment. “You will actually affect the narrative, leaving footsteps as you walk through or making ripples when you step on a puddle of water,” says Illuminarium CEO Alan Greenberg, noting the 4K laser projection, 3D sound, in-floor haptics, scent system and interactive technologies. Allow 45-60 minutes to roam the family-friendly attraction, complete

with an indoor/outdoor cafe and souvenir shop. Adults can enjoy cocktails and tapas at Illuminarium After Dark (8 p.m.-midnight, Thurs.-Sat.) in such fantastic settings as an interstellar nebula and underwater reef. The next iteration, “Spacewalk,” is set to debut in 2022.

WILD: A SAFARI EXPERIENCE illuminarium.com @illuminariumatl

BUZZ THE ELEGANT ELF MARKETPLACE Nov. 13-14 sandyspringssociety.org/ the-elegant-elf

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Sandy Springs, with this holiday gift market at City Springs Civic and Cultural Center. Shop for handcrafted items, artistic creations and gourmet delights from an eclectic mix of 90-plus local and national vendors. Now in its ninth year, the festive fundraiser for the Sandy Springs Society has provided more than $500,000 in grants to local nonprofits. The Evening of Elegance auction kicks off the event on Nov. 5.

GARDENING LECTURE SERIES Oct. 10 and 24 and Nov. 7 nfmg.net/communityclasses.htm @northfultonmastergardeners

[ F O OD ]

Savor the Flavor

The Atlanta Jewish community puts its spin on Southern BBQ at this kosher grill-off open to everyone.

BBQ FEST KEEPS IT KOSHER IN DUNWOODY With the witty tagline “no pork on the fork,” the Atlanta Kosher BBQ Festival is firing up the grill on Oct. 17 at Brook Run Park in Dunwoody for an afternoon of fall fun from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Presented by the Hebrew Order of David International, the annual smoker is 100% kosher, with 25 teams competing in the categories of Beef Brisket, Beef Ribs, Chicken and Chili, all styled like the sanctioned contests

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

of the Kansas City Barbeque Society. “Barbeque is universal, and kosher barbeque is something that is unique,” says Executive Director Jody Pollack. “It is a competition, yes, but also a great community event where any person, regardless of adherence to kosher or not, can partake. It’s all about the barbeque.” Additional food vendors round out the offerings, along with live

Keep that green thumb in shape year-round with seasonal gardening activities presented by North Fulton Master Gardeners. Upcoming virtual sessions starting at 2 p.m. on Zoom and Facebook Live include: Fun Garden Projects to do with your Kids, Oct. 10; Winter Vegetable Planting Demonstration, Oct. 24; and Cool Season Flowers Beyond Pansies, Nov. 7. Registration is required.

PNC ATLANTA 10 MILER & 5K music, artisan booths, a Kids Zone and area organizations. The fundraiser supports local charities and beneficiaries. ATLANTA KOSHER BBQ FESTIVAL theatlantakosherbbq.com @annualatlantakosherbbq

Oct. 17 atlantatrackclub.org/ 2021-pnc-atlanta-10-miler-5k @atlantatrackclub

Rise and shine for one of Atlanta’s most popular running and walking events at 7:15 a.m. Sponsored by the Atlanta Track Club, the race starts and ends at Atlantic Station, winding through Buckhead with cheer zones at every mile. It will be held rain or shine, and registration is required.

FIGHTING TODAY FOR THEIR TOMORROW CURE funds research aimed at solving childhood cancer while supporting families. Please join us in the fight. curechildhoodcancer.org

S C EN E

SEEK & FIND S.E.E.K. nonprofit founder Anike Sakariyawo shares a moment with our kid models William and Eliana. PHOTO: Sara

October 2021 | Simply Buckhead

Hanna

Born in Buckhead, Atlanta’s own Rubicon Crypto has brought

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SCHEDULE YOUR CONFIDENTIAL CONVERSATION TODAY. Email us at contact@rubiconcrypto.com and mention SIMPLY BUCKHEAD.

www.rubiconcrypto.com Rubicon Crypto, LLC is a registered investment adviser headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia that conducts business with residents of states and jurisdictions where they are properly registered or otherwise qualify for exemption from registration. Investing in cryptocurrencies involves considerable risk and significant volatility.

ALL THE BELLS AND WHISTLES YOU NEED Welcome to Bellyard. Located at The Interlock, where kindred spirits come together to experience a creative and inspired environment.

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HIGHLANDS, NORTH CAROLINA

NEWLY CONSTRUCTED LUXURY HOME IN RENOWNED HIGHLANDS CC

large kitchen has custom cabinetry and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances. The owner’s suite has all the bells and whistles with “his and her” With just the right amount of mounbaths, “his and her” closets, a sectain flair, this newly constructed ond laundry, and great finishes. The Highlands Country Club is one of home boasts antique beams, a beauterrace level has a wonderful famiHighlands’ most storied clubs tiful stone fireplace and gleaming ly room with a stone fireplace plus 4BR/5BA/2HBA | $2,250,000 hardwood floors. It is beautifully three en suite guest rooms, a second illuminated inside with high dividlaundry, and a kitchenette. There you MLS# 97131 ed light windows all around and has will find plenty of space to relax, for panoramic views. The covered deck children to play games, or to watch flows seamlessly from the great room and has a fireplace with TV. This level also has a large, private covered deck plus a wrap built-ins flanking the sides plus an antique door for privacy. The around open deck. Club membership is by invitation only.

JUDY MICHAUD & MITZI RAUERS JUDY: (828) 371-0730 | MITZI: (404) 218-9123

MeadowsMountainRealty.com 488 Main St, Highlands, NC | 2334 Cashiers Rd, Highlands, NC 196 Burns St, Cashiers, NC © 2021 BHHS Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHHS Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc. ® Equal Housing Opportunity.

HIGHLANDS, NORTH CAROLINA

BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED HOME IN HIGHLANDS FALLS COUNTRY CLUB This bright, open home has great view potential of Whiteside MounWarm and welcoming home in tain with some tree trimming. wonderful country club community Mostly single level living with 4BR/4.5BA | $1,495,000 vaulted ceilings in the great room and kitchen. The great room also MLS# TBD boasts a stone fireplace. The kitchen has a large island and tile floors, plus an office area and great pantry. The master bedroom and bath has a separate HVAC system. There are two lovely guest

JUDY MICHAUD & MITZI RAUERS JUDY: (828) 371-0730 | MITZI: (404) 218-9123

bedrooms with en suite baths. The fourth bedroom has its own suite with a separate entrance. Built in 1999, the owners have maintained this home in “like new” condition. Membership is not required to own property in Highlands Falls Country Club. However, it is required if you wish to enjoy club amenities such as golf, dining, pool, tennis, croquet, and more. Golf and social memberships are by invitation only.

RESIDENTIAL

Interior Painting Cabinet Painting Garage floors

EXTERIOR PAINTING

Siding / Brick / Stucco Wood Rot / Siding Replacement Decks

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AFTER BEFORE

recently hired Flawless Painting to take care of our new home’s interior and exterior painting, “ We including every cabinet and wall surface. The price was fair, work completed in a timely fashion, the crew cleaned up after themselves throughout the project, and came back to attend to all the last details. We are super happy with our fresh new look, and highly recommend Scott and his team for your next job! Joanne Hayes

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REAL ESTATE REDEFINED FEATURED LISTINGS

LUXURY COLLECTION

928 RIVER BRIDGE

712 WATERFALL DRIVE

CLAYTON, GA 30525 | $4,750,000 Southern Dream Team | 706.490.5629

SAUTEE NACOOCHEE, GA 30571 | $1,299,000 Meghann Brackett | 706.968.1870

LUXURY COLLECTION

304 DEER WATCH LANE

1276 TOM BORN ROAD

CLARKESVILLE, GA 30523 | $1,199,000 Meghann Brackett | 706.968.1870

118 MYSTIC PLACE

BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513 | $998,850 Kristina Hall | 706.633.9041

N DI

LUXURY COLLECTION

457 ROCKFORD CREEK ROAD

MINERAL BLUFF, GA 30559 | $750,000 Kassandra Olejnik | 404.643.6888

CLARKESVILLE, GA 30523 | $713,900 Tina Turner | 706.499.6944

LUXURY COLLECTION 808 GREYSTONE TRACE

699 COBBLESTONE LANE

ELLIJAY, GA 30536 | $1,100,000 Lou Adams | 678.910.0868

29AC HIDDEN VALLEY DR ELLIJAY, GA 30536 | $399,000 Kristina Hall | 706.633.9041

161 POPLAR MILL ROAD

DEMOREST, GA 30535 | $499,000 Navi Ramos | 706.499.1186

222 RUSHING WATERS DR BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 | $150,000 Carolyn Stambaugh | 678.887.1855

DEMOREST, GA 30535 | $379,900 Krista Bixler | 678.357.8642

MULL CIRCLE

BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 | $125,000 Kristina Hall | 706.633.9041

9 EASTVIEW TRAIL

EAST ELLIJAY, GA 30536 | $59,900 Carolyn Stambaugh | 678.887.1855

KERSTIN CRAWFORD

KAYLIN POUND

O. 770.536.3007 Kerstin.Crawford@BHHSGeorgia.com

O. 770.720.1400 Kaylin.Pound@BHHSGeorgia.com

Managing Broker

Manager

LOCAL EXPERTS. OUTSTANDING RESULTS BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES GEORGIA PROPERTIES ©2021 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Experience the Gift of Luxury. 2799 Piedmont Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 • MercedesOfBuckhead.com • (800) 713-5938

CASHIERS, NORTH CAROLINA

HIGHLANDS, NORTH CAROLINA

CUSTOM LUXURY HOMES STARTING AT $1.4M

CUSTOM LUXURY HOMES STARTING AT $2M

• MODERN-RUSTIC DESIGN • NATURAL 40’ WATERFALL & HIKING TRAILS • ONLY 20 1+ ACRE LOTS AVAILABLE

• PRIVATE GATED COMMUNITY NEAR DOWNTOWN HIGHLANDS, NC • WALK TO RESTAURANTS, ENTERTAINMENT & SHOPPING • ONLY 9 0.75+ ACRE LOTS AVAILABLE

Brooks Kittrell (828) 230-4453 & John Muir (404) 245-7027 www.saratayfalls.com

Mitzi Rauers (404) 218-9123 & Judy Michaud (828) 371-0730

TWO FABULOUS COMMUNITIES.. ONE GREAT TEAM. Both Bear Mòr and Saratay Falls are new communities of luxury mountain homes to be built just minutes from Cashiers, NC, and Highlands, NC, by developer Loudermilk Homes, a custom home builder out of Atlanta, GA, known for a relentless focus on quality craftsmanship, transparency, and advanced smart home technology. Exclusively represented by BHHS Meadows Mountain Realty, a leader in luxury real estate sales on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

©2021 BHHS Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHHS Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc. ® Equal Housing Opportunity.

Simply Buckhead October 2021

Articles inside

Tastemaker: Risky Business

Drinks: Magical—And Often Misunderstood—Mezcal

Review Satisfying Southern

Tastemaker: Simpler Suds

Local Salute Finding Community

Tastemaker Pillow Talk

Wellness: Clean Bill of

Staycation Big Little Touches

15 Minutes With George Coundouriotis

Kids: Slumber Specialists

Bulletin Board Modern Moment

Editor’s Letter