📓 New on the Blog
📓 New on the Blog
Stories, recs, & DIYs from the heart of ATL — written & curated by me, Messy Jesi.
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Where ATL Creators Shop: Vintage, Upcycle, & Home Goods That Inspire
Forget cookie-cutter decor — Atlanta’s vintage shops & small businesses are where the real magic happens. From reclaimed doors to funky art prints, here’s how I’ve filled my home with one-of-a-kind finds that tell a story (& support local while I’m at it.
Weird, Wonderful, & So ATL: A Local’s Guide to Little 5 Points + Halloween Festival Weekend
Little Five Points is Atlanta’s weird, wonderful heart — where vintage shops, dive bars, murals, & music collide. Whether you’re here for the Halloween Parade, a slice of Savage Pizza, or a weekend stroll through L5P, this neighborhood’s got something for everyone.
Your Ultimate Shaky Knees Weekend Guide
Your ultimate guide to Atlanta eats during Shaky Knees weekend — from festival vendors to fried chicken, coffee shops, budget bites, & late-night food spots. Local-approved, flavor-packed, & perfect for planning your ATL adventure.
🎨 Must-Do in Cabbagetown & Reynoldstown: Forward Warrior Weekend Guide
Two neighborhoods, one creative heartbeat. Whether you’re mural-hopping for Forward Warrior or just craving a weekend of street art, snacks, & good vibes, this guide has your back.
From coffee patios to quick bites, here’s how to explore Cabbagetown & Reynoldstown like a local — murals, beers, & maybe a burger from Little’s. 🧃🎨🍔
🍗 The Atlanta Wing Rotation: Spots You Need in Your Lineup
Wings are sacred in Atlanta — not just game day fuel but part of the culture. Whether you’re team flats or team drums (I’m not here to judge… much), this guide rounds up the best spots in the city to get hot, crispy, flavor-packed wings without the fluff. From pop-ups & strip clubs to neighborhood gems & lemon pepper legends, here’s your starting lineup for ATL wings that actually hit. Napkins required.
Polish Soul, Atlanta Hustle: Beksa LaLa’s Comfort Food Star
Not your babcia’s dumplings. 💥 Meet Basia of Beksa Lala — the pop-up chef serving pierogi with soul, flavor, & that Atlanta edge. From late-night cravings to five-course dreams, this is Polish comfort food done right.
A Local’s Guide to Atlanta’s Farmers Markets, Butchers, & Mini Markets
From hidden butcher counters in Chamblee to weekend rituals at Grant Park Farmers Market, here’s your curated ATL food loop — fresh produce, local meats, artisanal bites & soulful market vibes.
Book Lovers’ Guide to Atlanta: 20+ Must-Visit Bookstores & Comic Shops
Looking for your next favorite read? ATL’s got indie bookshops, vintage comics, & literary magic hiding in every corner. This isn’t just a list — it’s a love letter to the bookstores locals swear by.
Atlanta Black-Owned Gems You Need to Know & Support (Always)
Atlanta is home to so many Black-owned gems that deserve more love than just a February spotlight. From iconic restaurants to rising creators — here’s your guide to supporting Black brilliance all year long.
This guide isn’t just a list, it’s a love letter to the people & places shaping the city. Curated by local creators who live the Atlanta experience.🖤
🧸 Tattoo Shops in ATL for the Doodle Bear Generation
Cute? Yes. Colorful? Absolutely. Commitment? Let’s go.
If your inner child was raised on Doodle Bears & Lisa Frank, this ATL tattoo guide is for you. From minimalist line work to bold traditional ink, here are the tattoo shops locals actually swear by.
(Spoiler: this list came straight from my amazing Nerdy Retreat followers!)
Atlanta: City Guide
Atlanta: City Guide
Discover more unique in Atlanta with my city guide. Curated for those looking for something different.
Coming Winter 2025! Stay tuned.