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Lee Najjar, the wealthy Atlanta real estate investor best known to Real Housewives of Atlanta fans as Kim Zolciak-Biermann’s mysterious benefactor “Big Poppa,” has passed away at the age of 68.
He died on Saturday, April 18, 2026, with the news confirmed by his daughter, Katelin Najjar, through Instagram Stories featuring family tributes.
Najjar’s off-camera presence loomed large over the early seasons of RHOA, becoming one of the franchise’s most enduring scandals and symbols of the luxury, secrecy, and drama that defined Bravo’s breakout Atlanta series.
The Man Behind the Money
A Puerto Rican-born real estate mogul with significant holdings in Atlanta, Najjar was already a successful (and at times controversial) figure in the city’s property scene before reality TV fame found him.
Fans first heard whispers of “Big Poppa” in Season 1 as Kim Zolciak described a generous, older man funding her lavish lifestyle—designer clothes, luxury cars, a sprawling home, and more—while she navigated single motherhood and the Housewives spotlight.
Kim kept his identity under wraps on camera, referring to him only by the affectionate (and meme-worthy) nickname.
The secrecy fueled endless speculation among viewers and castmates alike. Nene Leakes famously slipped up and mentioned “Lee” on more than one occasion, adding fuel to the fire.
When details eventually emerged, the story proved even juicier: Najjar was married to his wife, Kimberly Najjar, during much of his relationship with Kim.
The pair were reportedly engaged at one point, with Kim flashing a massive diamond ring on Season 2, but the romance was on-again, off-again and ultimately ended by 2009. Kim later described him as “the love of my life” but said it was time to move on.
A Storyline That Defined Early RHOA
Big Poppa embodied the aspirational-yet-messy glamour of early Housewives: private jets, high-end shopping sprees, and the blurred lines between genuine romance and financial support.
The storyline highlighted themes of secrecy, infidelity rumors, and the price of the luxe life many Housewives pursued.
Najjar largely stayed out of the public eye, but his notoriety peaked again in 2012 when a mugshot surfaced after his arrest related to a court date and financial matters—another tabloid moment that cemented his place in Bravo lore.
Even years later, at BravoCon panels and in fan discussions, the mention of “Big Poppa” still elicits laughs, gasps, and nostalgia for the wilder, less filtered days of RHOA.
Kim herself has reflected on the relationship with a mix of fondness and finality, noting in later interviews that she hadn’t spoken to him in years after finding lasting love (and marriage, though later divorced) with Kroy Biermann.
Tributes and Legacy
Family members, including daughter Katelin, have shared heartfelt tributes remembering Najjar as a devoted father and larger-than-life personality.
Kim Zolciak has not yet publicly commented as of the latest reports, but fans have flooded social media with memories of the iconic storyline.
At the time of his death, reports placed Najjar’s net worth in the millions from his real estate ventures, a far cry from the $50 million figures sometimes floated in earlier tabloid coverage but still reflective of a successful career in Atlanta’s booming (and occasionally busting) property market.
Lee Najjar may have preferred the shadows during his time in the Housewives universe, but his larger-than-life persona left an indelible mark.
For a generation of Bravo fans, “Big Poppa” wasn’t just a sugar daddy reference—it was a shorthand for the scandalous, over-the-top drama that made early RHOA appointment television.
Rest in peace to a name that will forever live in Real Housewives infamy.
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Atlanta’s own Real Housewives of Atlanta star Drew Sidora is addressing the backlash after a series of comments posted from her social media accounts sparked major fan outrage.
On Wednesday, April 22, the RHOA cast member shared a lengthy statement on her Instagram, complete with a glowing photo of herself overlooking the Atlanta skyline and the signature peach emoji that has become synonymous with the Bravo hit.
Drew Sidora Shade or Not? RHOA Star Speaks Out Amid Divorce
In the post, which has since been widely shared by reality TV bloggers, Sidora, who is navigating a divorce, addresses the controversy head-on while navigating her very public divorce.
Here is Drew’s full statement:
“No shade, truly. I know how quickly things can get twisted in the world of social media, especially during a time like this in my life.
As I navigate this transition and move through my divorce, I want to be very clear, I have no desire to tear down or attack another woman. That’s simply not who I am, and it’s not the energy I’m moving in.
That said, I do take full accountability for what’s been posted from my page. Some comments were made by a team member who had access and acted independently in ways that don’t reflect me or my values. That individual is no longer part of my team, but out of respect for the positive contributions they’ve made in the past, I won’t be publicly shaming them.
I’ve reached out privately to those affected because I believe certain conversations belong in real, respectful spaces, not just online.
If you truly know me, you know where to find me. If not.. just sit back and enjoy the show. “
The message comes after weeks of speculation about shade allegedly thrown from Sidora’s accounts toward fellow Housewives — including reported jabs at co-star Kelli’s business ventures.
Fans were quick to react, with many questioning the “team member” explanation and referencing past clips where Drew herself appeared to celebrate others’ setbacks.
One fan replied to the viral post: “No shade, Drew. That sounds like one lengthy word salad lie.” Another added, “Meanwhile a month ago Drew herself posted a video making fun of Kelli’s business failure.”
Despite the skepticism, Sidora is urging fans to focus on the upcoming season and the upcoming reunion, where tensions are expected to boil over.
This isn’t the first time Atlanta’s Housewives have found themselves in hot water over social media. With filming wrapped and the new season on the horizon, insiders say the drama is only just getting started.
Stay locked on ATL Reality TV News for the latest on RHOA — because in Atlanta, the tea is always brewing.
What do you think — is Drew keeping it real or just damage control? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
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Acclaimed sports journalist Taylor Rooks revealed a powerful achievement by her Taylor Rooks Foundation (TRF): in partnership with the national nonprofit Undue Medical Debt, the organization has forgiven more than $2.1 million in medical debt affecting 1,805 families and individuals in her hometown of Gwinnett County, Georgia.
Rooks explained the deeply personal motivation behind the initiative.
She referenced her own family’s experiences with chronic illness—specifically noting her sister’s Type 1 diabetes—and described how medical bills can quickly become overwhelming, creating barriers that affect not just finances but overall health and peace of mind.
“Health challenges aren’t always within our control,” she emphasized, adding that removing this debt provides “real impact” by restoring access, easing hardship, and giving people a genuine “chance to move forward” and focus on recovery and family.
A Foundation Built on Equity and Action
Rooks launched the Taylor Rooks Foundation in July 2025 as a project of the Players Philanthropy Fund, a 501(c)(3) public charity.
Its mission is straightforward yet ambitious: to empower underserved communities—particularly Black and Brown individuals and families—by expanding access to education, health, and opportunity. TRF meets “overlooked needs with dignity, care, and action,” drawing inspiration from the stories Rooks has encountered throughout her career and personal life.
The foundation operates around three core pillars:
• REACH: Educational resources, community wellness programs, small business support, and direct giving.
• RELIEVE: Support for health and recovery, crisis assistance (including medical debt relief and utility aid), and essential living needs.
• REPRESENT: Mentorship for aspiring journalists, storytelling workshops, and initiatives like the Rising Rooks Award to amplify underrepresented voices.
This latest medical debt forgiveness falls squarely under the RELIEVE pillar and marks one of TRF’s most visible early impacts.
The partnership with Undue Medical Debt leverages a proven model: the organization purchases portfolios of delinquent medical debt for pennies on the dollar from hospitals and collectors, then forgives it outright for qualifying low-income or vulnerable households.
Nationally, Undue has already abolished over $1 billion in medical debt for more than 500,000 people.
Why Gwinnett? Roots Run Deep
Rooks, born in St. Louis in 1992 and raised in Suwanee, Gwinnett County, has always remained connected to her Georgia roots
A graduate of Peachtree Ridge High School and the University of Illinois, she comes from an athletic family—her father, Thomas Rooks, starred in football at Illinois, and her uncle is Baseball Hall of Famer Lou Brock.
Her professional journey as an Emmy-nominated journalist (previously with Bleacher Report, TNT, and now hosting on Prime Video) has taken her to New York, but she continues to champion the Atlanta-area community where she grew up.
Gwinnett County, part of the greater Atlanta metro, is diverse and vibrant but—like many communities across the South and the U.S.—has been hit hard by medical debt.
Forgiving $2.1 million here isn’t just numbers on a spreadsheet; it’s tangible relief for nearly 2,000 local families who can now breathe easier, seek care without fear, and invest in their futures rather than past bills.
Early Wins and Growing Momentum
The medical debt relief isn’t TRF’s first act of service.
Since launching, the foundation has supported the Lower East Side Girls Club in New York City, provided utility assistance to families during the holidays, helped teachers with school supplies, and partnered with companies like Experian (which recently donated $50,000).
Each effort aligns with Rooks’ belief that “equity starts with access”—access to care, confidence, opportunity, and resources regardless of zip code, background, or bank account.
In her own words from the announcement: “To everyone who continues to support TRF’s mission, thank you! This work is only possible because of you.”
A Model of Impactful Philanthropy
In an era when medical debt remains one of the leading causes of financial stress and even bankruptcy in America, initiatives like this one highlight how targeted, community-focused giving can create immediate, life-changing relief.
Rooks isn’t just shining a spotlight—she’s turning her platform and personal story into sustained action.
The Taylor Rooks Foundation invites supporters to learn more, donate, or get involved at taylorrooks.com/foundation.
As Rooks continues her high-profile career covering the NBA, NFL, and beyond, her foundation proves that true influence extends far off the court and into the lives of everyday people in the communities she calls home.
This is more than philanthropy—it’s proof that one person’s vision, backed by strategic partnerships and community support, can lift thousands.
And for Gwinnett County families burdened by medical debt, that relief feels nothing short of life-changing.
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R&B royalty is converging on Atlanta in a massive way.
How To Get Usher and Chris Brown Tickets
Grammy Award-winning icons Usher Raymond (a hometown hero) and Chris Brown have officially announced The R&B Tour—also known as the Raymond & Brown Tour—a co-headlining stadium run across North America in 2026.
The tour includes multiple nights at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on November 7 and 8, 2026, with shows starting at 7:00 PM.
Due to overwhelming demand, reports indicate a third and fourth show has been added bookending November 10.
Usher and Chris Brown Concert Tickets: What To Know
This marks a highly anticipated collaboration between two of the genre’s most dynamic performers, known for their chart-topping hits, electrifying stage presence, and smooth choreography.
Fans have been buzzing since the initial tease in early April 2026, with the full dates dropping shortly after.
Why This Tour Matters—Especially in Atlanta
Usher, born in Chattanooga but raised in Atlanta, has deep roots in the city.
He’s defined R&B for decades with classics like “Yeah!” (featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris), “OMG,” “Love in This Club,” and his diamond-certified album Confessions. His 2024 Super Bowl Halftime Show performance and Las Vegas residencies cemented his status as a live entertainer.
Bringing the tour home to Mercedes-Benz Stadium feels like a victory lap for the Atlanta native.
Chris Brown, no stranger to high-energy performances, brings hits like “Run It!,” “Forever,” “With You,” and more recent smashes.
Known for his dance moves and vocal range, Breezy complements Usher perfectly on a bill that promises non-stop hits, collaborations, and show-stopping moments.
The pairing has generated massive excitement, with the announcement video racking up tens of millions of views quickly.
The tour comes years after reported tensions between the two (including an alleged 2023 altercation in Las Vegas), making this joint outing a notable moment of unity in R&B.
Usher and Chris Brown: Tour Details and Atlanta Stops
- Atlanta Dates: Saturday, November 7, 2026, and Sunday, November 8, 2026, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (7:00 PM). A potential third date on November 10 has been mentioned amid high demand.
- The broader tour kicks off June 26, 2026, in Denver, CO, at Empower Field at Mile High and spans stadiums across the U.S. and Canada, wrapping up in December in Tampa, FL. Other multi-night stops include cities like Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Houston, and more.
Produced by Live Nation, this is a stadium-scale production expected to feature state-of-the-art production, visuals, and a setlist packed with decades of R&B anthems.
Tickets and Presales
Tickets go on sale via the official site (RaymondAndBrownTour.com) with presales starting as early as April 23, 2026 (including Citi cardholder presale), leading to general on-sale on April 27 at noon local time. VIP packages, suites, and premium options are available through platforms like Ticketmaster and VIP Nation.- Expect high demand—Atlanta shows sold briskly in anticipation.
Fans should check Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s site for parking, entry rules, and event policies.
What to Expect: A Night of R&B Excellence
This isn’t just a concert—it’s a celebration of R&B’s evolution. Attendees can anticipate medleys of hits, surprise collaborations, intricate choreography, and the kind of crowd sing-alongs that define these artists’ legacies. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with its world-class sound, massive video boards, and retractable roof, provides the perfect backdrop for such a spectacle.
For Atlanta music fans, this is a can’t-miss event blending nostalgia with fresh energy. As Usher might say, “Yeah!”—and Chris Brown would follow with those signature dance breaks.
Stay tuned for setlist teases, openers (if announced), and any updates on additional dates. Grab tickets early, because The R&B Tour is poised to be one of 2026’s biggest tours. - For more info and tickets: Visit RaymondAndBrownTour.com or Ticketmaster.
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ATLANTA — Centennial Yards has landed another major tenant: Virgin Hotels will build a new 261-room hotel in the heart of downtown Atlanta, right near State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The property is expected to open in 2027.
The announcement marks the latest addition to the ambitious mixed-use development transforming the area around the stadiums.
Virgin Hotels to Open First Georgia Location at Centennial Yards in Downtown Atlanta
“Virgin Hotels brings a bold blend of energy, personality, and world-class hospitality, and we’re proud to welcome their first Georgia location to Centennial Yards,” said Brian McGowan, President of Centennial Yards Company.
Virgin Hotels Atlanta will feature a stylish mix of accommodations, including 21 Grand King Chambers and 21 One-Bedroom Suites, with the upper floors offering the property’s most premium rooms.
The design emphasizes multi-functional spaces for rest, work, and play.
Amenities will include a ground-floor lobby bar, a full restaurant, a pool bar with a deck featuring private cabanas, and a rooftop lounge and bar — all designed to create a vibrant social hub for both guests and locals.
“With Virgin Hotels Atlanta, we want to bring our signature mix of heartfelt service, bold design, and playful spirit to a property that feels rooted in Atlanta and perfectly matched to the energy of Centennial Yards,” said Joe Margison, CEO of Virgin Hotels.
This project joins other recent tenants at Centennial Yards, including popular Atlanta dining spots, as the development continues to reshape downtown.
Downtown Atlanta’s development landscape has undergone significant transformation in recent years, driven by large-scale mixed-use projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a focus on revitalizing the city’s historic core. These changes reflect a broader effort to make Downtown more vibrant, walkable, and economically robust, particularly in preparation for events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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ATLANTA — Mellow Mushroom, the beloved Atlanta-based stone-baked pizza chain, is stepping beyond its signature pies with a fresh pilot menu of eight creative sandwiches and wraps now available for a limited time at select spots in Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee.
The new handheld offerings were designed to broaden the brand’s flavor lineup while keeping the same inventive spirit that has made its pizzas legendary — think layered ingredients, unexpected combinations, and craveable sauces reimagined in portable form.
Mellow Mushroom’s New Sandwiches: What To Know
If the pilot proves popular, the sandwiches could become a permanent addition to menus across the chain.
“Expanding our menu with more sandwiches gave us a new canvas to play with bold flavors in a handheld format,” said Dave Woolley, Head of Culinary at Mellow Mushroom. “We took the same creative spirit behind our pizzas with layered ingredients, unexpected combinations and craveable sauces, and reimagined them into sandwiches and wraps that feel both familiar and totally new.”
Mellow Mushroom’s New Sandwich Lineup
Here’s what’s on the pilot menu:
• Beer Cheese Philly — Steak or chicken with bell peppers, caramelized onions, garlic aioli, topped with beer cheese and tangy peppers.
• Meatball Parmesan — Meatballs smothered in vodka sauce, provolone, topped with mozzarella, pesto, and grated Parmesan.
• Chicken Pesto — Pesto chicken topped with melty mozzarella, roasted tomatoes, shredded romaine, creamy pesto, and grated Parmesan. (Available as a sub or wrap.)
• Buffalo Bang Chicken — Crispy chicken tossed in Buffalo sauce, topped with applewood-smoked bacon, provolone, shredded romaine, pickled onions, Grillo’s® pickles, and bleu cheese. (Available as a sub or wrap.)
• Italian Deluxe — Salami, honey ham, pepperoni, fresh mozzarella, roasted tomatoes, banana peppers, creamy pesto, topped with shredded romaine and a balsamic vinaigrette drizzle. (Available as a sub or wrap.)
• Sweet Heat Jerk Chick — Jerk chicken, pineapple, mushrooms, banana peppers, topped with provolone and creamy pesto.
• The Greek — Cucumbers, kalamata olives, banana peppers, roasted tomatoes, shredded romaine, topped with sheep’s milk feta, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic aioli. (Available as a sub or wrap.)
• Chicken Caesar Wrap — Melty mozzarella with chicken, shredded romaine, grated Parmesan, and pickled red onions tossed in Caesar dressing.
Mellow Mushroom’s New Sandwiches: Where to Find Them
These sandwiches are available exclusively at the following Mellow Mushroom locations through Tuesday, July 7 (with a possible extension based on demand):
• Hickory, NC
• Athens, GA
• Decatur, GA
• Cartersville, GA
• Peachtree City, GA
• Hiram, GA
• Warner Robins, GA
• Dunwoody, GA
• Gatlinburg, TN
The lineup will also launch at the Grant Park (Atlanta) location on Tuesday, May 12.
Guests are encouraged to try the new items and share their thoughts. Feedback can be submitted via a QR code provided with to-go orders or tableside at the test locations.
That input will directly influence whether — and how — these sandwiches make their way onto more menus in the future.
“This new, piloted sandwich lineup is all about listening to our guests and evolving the menu while staying true to what our guests love about Mellow,” said Elizabeth Brasch, EVP of Marketing at Mellow Mushroom. “We intentionally chose a mix of markets with highly engaged fans to help us test, learn and refine. Guest feedback will directly shape what comes next, making this a truly collaborative step in growing the Mellow menu and expanding into a competitive lunch-forward option.”
Mellow Mushroom fans in metro Atlanta and beyond now have even more reasons to visit their local spot this spring and summer.
Whether you’re craving something familiar with a twist or ready to explore bold new flavors in handheld form, these limited-time sandwiches offer a fresh way to enjoy the Mellow experience.
Head to one of the participating locations, scan the QR code after your meal, and help shape the future of the menu. The ‘Shroom is listening.
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Hey Atlanta seafood lovers! If you’ve been missing those endless plates of shrimp at Red Lobster, your patience is paying off.
Starting today, April 20, 2026, the iconic Endless Shrimp promotion is making a limited-time comeback at participating Red Lobster locations across the metro area.
Red Lobster Endless Shrimp 2026: What To Know in Atlanta
You probably remember the story: In 2023, Red Lobster made Endless Shrimp a permanent $20 menu item, and it backfired spectacularly.
Shrimp lovers showed up in droves (one reported eater downed 108 in a sitting!), costing the chain about $11 million in a single quarter and contributing to its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in 2024.
That led to closures nationwide, including some tough decisions for the brand.
New CEO Damola Adamolekun, who previously said he knew “how to do math” and wouldn’t bring it back full-time, is now listening to the fans.The revived version is dine-in only, limited-time only, designed to honor the 20-year legacy without the supply chain nightmare.
Atlanta Locations Ready to Serve
Good news for local fans: Atlanta still has several Red Lobster spots open and ready for the shrimp invasion, including:
- Camp Creek Parkway (East Point area)
- Tucker
- Smyrna
- Austell
- Kennesaw
- Cartersville
Pro tip: Check the Red Lobster app or website for wait times, as this deal is expected to be popular. It’s dine-in only, so plan accordingly!
Whether you’re a cheddar biscuit devotee or just in it for the shrimp (garlic, coconut, fried, or whatever variety they’re offering this round), this is your chance to indulge responsibly. Just maybe don’t try to set a personal record this time.
What do you think, ATL? Will you be heading out for Endless Shrimp? Drop your predictions (and shrimp-eating strategies) in the comments. We’ll keep you posted on how long this limited-time offer actually lasts. 🦞
Stay hungry, Atlanta!
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Get ready, Atlanta — spring is about to throw the ultimate fashion show, and this one’s made entirely of flowers!
The global sensation Fleurs de Villes is returning to Phipps Plaza with its fabulous FLORA edition, running Wednesday, April 29 through Sunday, May 3.Fleurs de Villes FLORA Coming To Phipps Plaza
And yes, it’s completely free and open to the public. Consider this your official permission slip to ditch the usual mall stroll and go full floral fantasy instead.
Imagine walking through Mall Level 1 and stumbling into a world where fashion and flowers collide in the most glamorous way possible.The highlight? Fleurs de Villes’ world-famous fresh floral mannequins — life-sized couture creations brought to life by some of Atlanta’s most talented floral designers.
Thousands of vibrant blooms will be transformed into breathtaking spring-inspired outfits that look like they just stepped off a Paris runway… except they smell way better.
These aren’t your average flower arrangements. We’re talking wearable (well, almost) art pieces that blend high fashion with high bloom energy. Every mannequin is a unique masterpiece celebrating the season’s most joyful vibes.
But wait — there’s more floral fun on Saturday, May 2!
Mark your calendars for a full day of flower power from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.:- Live floral demonstrations (watch the pros work their magic!)
- A dreamy pop-up flower market packed with fresh blooms from local florists — perfect for taking a little piece of the magic home
- Insta-worthy photo moments everywhere, including a floral-adorned Porsche that’s basically begging to be your next profile pic
- A stunning floral entrance at The House of Creed inspired by their new Wild Vetiver fragrance (smells as good as it looks, guaranteed)
And because Atlanta knows how to party, cap off your floral adventure with Phipps Plaza’s annual “Run for the Roses” Kentucky Derby viewing party on The Green from 5–7 p.m. Hats encouraged, vibes mandatory.
Whether you’re a flower fanatic, a fashion lover, or just someone who needs a serious dose of spring joy, Fleurs de Villes FLORA is the event you don’t want to miss. It’s colorful, creative, Instagram-ready, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face (and a skip in your step).
Pro tip: Bring your camera, wear something cute, and prepare to be obsessed.
See you among the blooms, Atlanta!
See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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Getting your hair done remains a significant investment of time and money, so choosing a reliable, skilled hairstylist in Atlanta is essential.
Atlanta continues to lead in beauty and hair trends, blending classic techniques with innovative styles for all hair textures, from precision cuts and vibrant colors to natural hair care, extensions, and protective styles.
In this article, we’ll show you the best hairstylists in Atlanta.
10 of the Best Hair Salons in Atlanta
If you’re a DIY girl, you could get you some “fire” hair color and high-quality salon scissors and go to work. But you don’t have to.
Atlanta stays on top of the beauty and hair game. These 10 Atlanta salons are the best of the crop, according to reviews.
Van Michael Salon (Multiple locations, including Virginia-Highlands, Buckhead, Midtown, Sandy Springs, and Avalon)
World-renowned and award-winning for over four decades, Van Michael Salon stands out for its elite training program where stylists master one discipline: precision cutting, expert color, or esthetics. They offer custom cuts, color, extensions, and Aveda products in a luxurious setting. Frequently named among Atlanta’s best salons in Modern Luxury and other outlets.Native Mane Salon
332 Ormond Dr. ste 103, Atlanta Ga. 30315
Here’s what a customer says about Native Mane Salon: “CATHERINE!! She is amazing!! I mean LOOK!! I have always been hesitant to go lighter with my hair because I don’t want to damage it, but I trusted my friend who is also a client at the salon that they take the best care of your hair. I have never been a chatter during hair sessions but Catherine is so easy to talk to and she is so knowledgeable about caring for hair. This hair is more beautiful than I could’ve wished for!! I took all of her suggestions and I can’t wait for future visits.”
Southern Curl (West Midtown)
1339 Marietta Blvd NW, Suite A, Atlanta, GA 30318
Curly hair specialists fluent in all curl textures and densities (waves to coils). Curl-inclusive culture with extensions and healthy styling—voted in Atlanta Magazine reader favorites. Excellent for defined, vibrant natural curls.
SP HairCare (Buckhead)
Address: 1820 Peachtree Rd NW, Suite 105, Atlanta, GA 30309
Celebrity stylist-led spot known for healthy hair focus across all textures, including natural, color-treated, relaxed, and extensions. High reviews for scalp care, silk presses, and personalized service.
Revive Hair Studio
2088 Briarcliff Rd NE, Suite 5, Atlanta, GA 30329 (North Druid Hills/Emory area, convenient central access)
Highly rated for full-service cuts, color, and personalized styles. Frequently appears in 2026 top lists for consistent results and approachable team.
Hair Loft Atlanta (West End)
Address: 898 Oak St SW, Suite C, Atlanta, GA 30310
Premier healthy hair salon emphasizing quality services in a relaxing atmosphere. Popular for natural hair care, silk presses, and transformative styles with strong client loyalty
Drybar
- 60 11th St NE #3B, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 921-0813
- 102 W Paces Ferry Rd NW Suite B, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 382-5310
Photo credit: @thedryerbar/instagram There’s bar food, bar drinks, and a bar for your hair. Drybar first got it starts as an at-home blowout service later transitioning to a salon catering to the growing blowouts trend. Plus, it’s the only place you can get a “Hair Shot”.
Too Groovy Salon (Poncey-Highland / Midtown area)
Address: 265 Ponce de Leon Ave NE, Suite E, Atlanta, GA 30308
Long-standing favorite for natural hair specialists. Experts in chemical-free care, healthy hair plans, twists, locs, and protective styles.
Embrace Me Naturally
1766 Old Norcross Rd Suite K, Lawrenceville, GA 30044
Photo credit: @embracenaturally/instagram Embrace Me Naturally specializes in protective hairstyles and caters to every texture and curl pattern helping naturalistas to keep their curls popping.
Melrose & McQueen
337 Elizabeth St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Photo credit: melrosemcqueen/instagram Melrose and McQueen brings west coast vibes, runway couture, and hipster with an edge atmosphere to Atlanta. Located in Inman Park, this salon is attracting all the cook kids in town.
Natural Creations
2380 Benjamin E Mays, Atlanta, GA 30311
Photo credit: @luvlocs/instagram To our readers with locs, we didn’t forget about you. Natural Creations is the go-to salon for those looking to start their loc journey or the routine care and maintenance. In addition to their natural hair services, Natural Creations has a henna artist on staff for tattoos if you wanted to really spice up your look.
Final Word
In Atlanta, there are many hair salons that do good work. If you’re unsure about an establishment, make sure you read the reviews.
The Atlanta hair industry is one of the largest in the Southeast, with more than 8 million people getting groomed each month.
Want To Shop For Hair? See Our Products Page
But you can do it yourself. All you need are some quality shears and some high-performance clippers to get the job done. Check out these other grooming links to get shaped up in Atlanta.
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Invest Fest, the financial education and entrepreneurship conference that combines investing, business, pop culture, and entertainment, is once again being held in downtown Atlanta this year.
The Invest Fest 2026 financial event Atlanta is one of the best festivals in the city time and time again.
Organized by Earn Your Leisure, it aims to empower attendees with tools for wealth-building and saving money through keynote speeches, ppanels, live interviews, vendor activations, pitch competitions, and networking events.
Invest Fest 2026: What To Know
The event features prominent speakers like Magic Johnson, Jack Dorsey, Issa Rae, Steve Harvey, and others, focusing on topics like AI, crypto, real estate, and estate planning.
It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, including musical performances and a marketplace with over 400 vendors.
When Is Invest Fest This Year?
Invest Fest 2026 will take place from August 7-9, 2026, at the Georgia World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313.
Additional Details:
- Attendance: Expected to draw over 40,000 attendees across three days.
- Highlights: Includes a $125,000 tech pitch competition, Operation HOPE Business Scholarships ($25,000 each for five entrepreneurs), and a VIP-only Deal Room for investor-entrepreneur connections.
- Tickets: General admission starts at $250, VIP tickets at $1,500. Presale is ongoing, with group discounts available.
- Theme: Focus on AI and future economic trends, with panels on financial empowerment and innovation.
- Related Events: A comedy show on August 21, 2025, and a kickoff party at Embr Lounge on August 21–22, 2025.
Open Pitch is the high-energy startup competition built to discover and support the most promising early-stage companies. With hundreds of applicants, five finalists, and one ultimate winner, the competition delivers more than exposure—it connects founders directly with active investors and business leaders who know what it takes to scale.
Finalists will pitch live on stage at Invest Fest at the Georgia World Congress Center. The top five startups will be selected from 25 semi-finalists and evaluated by a panel of guest investor judges. Finalists receive real-time feedback, strategic connections, and a shot at national visibility—and one will walk away with a $125,000 investment from Open Opportunity Fund.
“Invest Fest has become one of the most powerful platforms for economic empowerment in our culture,” said Paul Judge, Managing Partner at Open Opportunity Fund. “Bringing Open Pitch to this audience is about spotlighting world-class founders who are building the future. We’re proud to back them with capital and community.”
Final Word
“At Earn Your Leisure, our mission is rooted in ownership, access, and opportunity,” said Rashad Bilal, Co-founder of Earn Your Leisure & Invest Fest. “Partnering with Paul and Open Opportunity Fund to launch Open Pitch is a natural evolution of that mission. This is more than a pitch competition—it’s a movement to fund the future.”
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