Classic Style
By Kristen Soles McCrackin | Photos courtesy of www.bckr.com BCKR-pronounced Backer-may be new to the college sports apparel scene, but its founder Corey Maynard is no stranger to premium products or fan culture. A seasoned marketing and product development executive with experience at YETI Coolers and Ooni Pizza Ovens, Maynard has built his career…
By Kristen Soles McCrackin | Photos courtesy of Bubo Handmade Bubo Handmade derives its name from the owl of the goddess Athena. Owner and leather artist Kristen Faircloth says, “In the movie [Clash of the Titans], this little mechanical owl flies through stuff. When I was little, I always loved that owl …. So,…
By Kristen Soles McCrackin | Photos courtesy of The Avenue Erin Gilmer and Brandy Martin graduated from the University of Georgia in 2000 with degrees in furnishings and interiors and embarked on successful careers in interior design. However, they always dreamed of having their own storefront where they could offer the freshest designs and…
By Kristen Soles McCrackin | Photos courtesy of Betsy Pittard When Betsy Pittard was 16, she took a small job after school with a do-it-yourself (DIY) jewelry bead shop in her hometown of Macon, Ga. Back then, she had no idea it would ignite her life’s passion and become a lucrative career. Instead, she…
By Jennifer McKee | Photos courtesy of Designs by Laurel Leigh For Laurel Gregory, creating art is therapeutic. “It’s a creative relief that I didn’t know I needed,” says Gregory. “It allowed me to decompress.” After the loss of her mother-in-law and a move into a new house, Gregory took a hiatus from her…
By Ashlee Duren | Photos by of Amy J. Owen Jarrett Kemp is hitting her stride with her newest venture. Six months ago, the Athens native bought Appointments at Five, a boutique for the home that specializes in English and French antiques along with a variety of home décor accessories and gifts. Kitty Culpepper…
By Jennifer McKee In Renee Scalzini’s case, form does follow function in crafting artisanal handbags. But so much more comes into play. Hers is a vision that pays homage to her immigrant roots. “This isn’t just about selling handbags, it’s about solving a problem, making a difference and inspiring women of all ages to…
By Jennifer McKee | Photos by Max Eremine A passion for vintage goods is in Lindsay Short’s blood. Short is the force behind Mother Lode Athens, an 8,000-square-foot space with more than 40 vendors specializing in all things vintage, from clothing and accessories to furniture and toys. Short’s parents were avid thrifters, and when…
By Jennifer McKee | Photos courtesy of Leigh Ann Barnes Clear bags used to be boring – until Leigh Ann Barnes started designing them. Barnes’ antidote to the clear-bag blues? Carry your NCAA- and NFL-approved clear bag into the stadium, then dress it up later with a stylish leather cover. And with approximately 100…
By Jennifer McKee | Photos courtesy of Merrill Horridge It all started with the search for a simple coverup. Mary Scott Jameson and her family were looking forward to a beach vacation at the end of 2020. Jameson went on the hunt for a swimsuit coverup and was shocked by what she found. “I…