Tickets On Sale Now!
Fri, March 20, 2026
Begin: 8:00pm
End: 11:59pm
The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom
Black Sheep Interiors
Age 21 and Over Only!
$175.00/ea. Get Tickets »
The Launch Party is where the action begins! Guests will dance the night away in our luxurious custom-themed cocktail lounge co-hosted by Lake Oconee's renowned Black Sheep Interiors. Select chefs and restaurants will present savory bites and sweet hors d'oeuvre. So, get ready for a night of dancing, live music, cocktails and dessert!
Three beverage vouchers are included with your ticket.
The Following Chefs, Restaurants and Food Providers will Participate in The Launch Party.
Fri.
The Bourbon & Bites Dinner
A five-course dinner featuring five distinct expressions of bourbon.
Executive Chef
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
Greensboro, Georgia
Executive Chef Dennis Vanterpool was born in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. He began to learn the field of hospitality at a young age by shadowing his mother who worked at a St. Thomas resort. Dennis’s first culinary experiences came from watching his mother cook for family, friends and relatives. His mother’s passion for cooking inspired Dennis to pursue a career in the culinary arts. As her apprentice, Dennis created a signature pizza in his mother’s restaurant. The pie quickly become a customer favorite, and Dennis' natural talent was beginning to show.
Following high school, Dennis attended Johnson & Wales University where he obtained a degree in Culinary Arts before returning to St. Thomas. He began his career at the Marriott Frenchman Reef.
Following his passion to become an Executive Chef, Dennis moved to Amelia Island after accepting a position as Chef Garde Manger. His passion for the industry was apparent, and Chef Dennis was promoted to Chef Tournant before taking over the role of Executive Sous Chef.
During his time on Amelia Island, Chef Dennis led classes for the local Boys & Girls Club, worked with the Barnabas Food Pantry, and served food at a local soup kitchen.
Now, in his role as Executive Chef at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, Chef Dennis is looking forward to infusing the resort’s cuisine with his soulful, worldwide flavors and getting involved with the local community.
Chef
Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
Greensboro, Georgia
Chef Andrea Rodella was born and raised in Northern Italy where he attended culinary school in his home town of Mantova. He spent the following 10 years working in various Michelin Star Kitchens across Italy before moving to the US. His experience in the US has taken him coast-to-coast as he was called to work in a host of high-end dining establishments and resorts finally leading to his most recent tenure in Florida.
Chef Rodella credits his aptitude for languages as a cornerstone of success along his culinary journey. In fact, Chef Rodella speaks four languages fluently. He’s happily married to his wife, Brittany, and is a proud father to four young children.
Chef and Owner
Cafe 44
Greensboro, Georgia
Located at beautiful Lake Oconee, Café 44 is a local spot for fast, high-quality favorites.
Café 44 offers a variety of homemade breakfasts, pastries, soups, sandwiches, family meals and artisan coffee roasted fresh in Thomasville, Georgia. They can also provide after-hours catering for delicious and easy meal solutions.
Looking for a quick and delicious meal? Try one of their savory salads or sandwiches. Did you know, the California Club was voted one of the best 100 meals in Georgia!
Owner & Chef Lane Raney is serving delicious Homemade Pimento Cheese, over Pecan Smoked Brisket with Jalapeno Pepper Jelly on a fresh Butter Milk Biscuit
Sous Chef
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
Greensboro, Georgia
Growing up in a family of 8, Chef Jestina knew someone had to take up the cooking. Jestina developed a fondness for the kitchen during visits with her family to the village where her grandfather was a chief. Because of his leadership position they had visitors most of the time and they were always cooking. Jestina’s deeper culinary passions were ignited while helping her grandmother in the kitchen.
When the country’s civil war started, the family managed to escape to Guinea as refugees. Jestina later went to a vocational trade school in Freetown as well as at the Hotel and Tourism Training Center, where she earned a culinary diploma. After moving to the U.S., Jestina went into the nursing field, but couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. Thoughts of her first love, cooking, returned to her over and over. Heading the call, she enrolled in Le Cordon-bleu and graduated in 2010.
Jestina completed her internship with The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta and became employed as a Cook 3 in July 2010. Working under the supervision of many chefs, she became a learning coach and was then promoted to Garde Manger supervisor. In 2017, she earned the 5-Star employee of the year award. In 2019, she joined The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas as Banquet Supervisor before taking her current position as Sous Chef at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee.
BBQ Master
Dough Daddy Dough
Eatonton, Georgia
Dough Daddy Dough is the creation of John and Sandy Padjen, who wanted to bring Chicago-style food to Lake Country. They offer Chicago pan pizza, Chicago-style Vienna beef hot dogs, Chicago Italian beef on hoagie buns, and the “Combo,” featuring Italian beef/ Italian sausage with sweet peppers or hot giardiniera.
Their melt-in-your-mouth Sweet Cream Cheese Strawberry Crepes are John’s mother’s recipe. All food is baked to order and to go.
Chef and Owner
Chef Shawn Osbey, The Traveling Chef
Atlanta, Georgia
Chef Shawn Osbey, simply Chef Shawn to his clients, is a culinary expert who has been creating unique and scintillating food experiences globally for more than ten years. Known as the “traveling chef,” Chef Shawn and his Atlanta-based catering company are prepared to bring their expertise to any destination in the world.
Chef Shawn discovered his passion for creating unique meals while growing up in Danbury, Connecticut, where he would volunteer to make breakfast for his brothers so he wouldn’t have to go out and shovel the snow.
After graduating from the Connecticut Culinary Institute, he moved to Las Vegas, where he learned to prepare unique cuisines from around the world and the art of culinary from the world’s greatest chefs. Chef Shawn has worked alongside Charlie Palmer at Charlie Palmers’ Steak House, assisted executive chef Sam Haze in opening his Vegas icon, renowned Tao, in the Venetian Resort, and held multiple executive chef positions at The Mirage and Aria Hotels.
Chef Shawn’s culinary journey is a vibrant tapestry woven through TV outlets like the Food Network’s Chopped, the OWN network show Checked Inn, and ABC’s Good Morning America. He has been featured in publications such as Ebony magazine, Houston Chronicle, Houston Style Magazine, and Eater Houston. Notably, Chef Shawn served as the executive chef and general manager for the iconic Kulture Restaurant’s downtown Houston reopening.
From Las Vegas to Vieques, Chef Shawn has created great meals and culinary experiences and is delighted to share his talents with Lake Oconee.
Restaurant Chef
Linger Longer Steak House
Lake Oconee, Georgia
In the heart of Puebla, Mexico, a third-generation baker, Chef JC Martinez, began his culinary journey deeply rooted in a family legacy. Growing up in a family dedicated to art of baking, JC was immersed in the rich flavors and traditions of Mexican cuisine from an early age. Mentored by his father, a traditional pioneer baker, he imbibed the essence of hard work, passion and the importance of professional ethics.
At the tender age of 18, JC left his hometown, carrying with him the valuable lessons his father had taught him, seeking to broaden his culinary horizons.
His travels across Mexico and into the United States were instrumental in shaping his culinary identity. He meticulously absorbed techniques and flavors from various international chefs, enriching his repertoire. JC's time in Cape Cod was particularly transformative. Here he found inspiration in the local seafood and the serene beauty of the sea.
JC developed a unique gastronomic style blending the fresh, briny flavors of the sea with the robust earthy tones of Mexican cuisine infused with Mediterranean and Japanese flavors.
JC's signature cooking style emerged, marked by a fascination with the primal elements of fire and smoke and exceptional knife skills. His prowess in butchering both land and sea fare reflected the depth of his culinary expertise. Chef Martinez' journey is not just a tale of culinary achievement but a testament to the power of his passion, perseverance, unparalleled skill and the endless possibilities that arise from the fusion of the vast culinary worlds that shaped his remarkable career.
Executive Pasty Chef
JW Marriott
Nashville, Tennessee
Chef Daniel Mangione is an accomplished Executive Pastry Chef with a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry. For over 23 years, Chef Daniel has been a noteworthy leader in luxury pastry kitchens within the namesake hospitality brand, Marriott. Currently serving as the Executive Pastry Chef at Nashville, Tennessee's first true luxury hotel, the JW Marriott Nashville, Chef Daniel has been instrumental in shaping the pastry operations of this prestigious hotel.
Originally from California, Chef Daniel began his tenure with The Ritz-Carlton in 2001 when he started his pastry internship in Naples, Florida through the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). Since then, he has continued to grow within the Marriott brand and has held Executive Pastry Chef roles managing pastry operations for The Ritz-Carlton hotels in Washington DC, Half Moon Bay, Sanya China, Dove Mountain, Arizona, and Bvlgari Resorts in Bali Indonesia. Chef Daniel was also recognized as a member of the Eastern Region Ritz-Carlton Pastry Advisory Board during his tenure and currently serves on Marriott’s Pastry Chef Counsel.
Daniel has been a part of over 22 new hotel openings including time spent in Aruba, St. Thomas, Fort Lauderdale, Lake Tahoe, Ranch Mirage, Rome, and Naples. Throughout his career, he has consistently exhibited his passion for pastry and demonstrated exceptional leadership, creativity, and attention to detail. With his extensive experience in luxury hotels and resorts, he has contributed to the success of numerous establishments, elevating the pastry experience for guests and setting new standards in the industry.
Chef
Cindy Lutini Catering with Choate Family Farms
Greensboro, Georgia
Cindy Lutini’s Catering, LLC opened for business in 2008 in the Lake Oconee area.
Our motto has always been, “we strive for perfection in everything we do. . .,” and continues to be our guiding force today.
In September 2015 we secured FDA approval for two of our signature lasagnas to be sold at select Whole Food stores, Fresh Market grocery chain and Williams Sonoma in Atlanta.
Additionally, we launched a line of specialty pecans widely distributed throughout Georgia at specialty shops and farmers markets. Our Ben Ben’s Spiced Pecans were described by the Atlanta Journal Constitution as sweet and salty with a touch of citrus. This year we released our popular Lutini’s CHUNKY’S, a luscious dark chocolate and almonds treat.
For over two years, Cindy Lutini has taught interactive cooking classes at Olive + Hive, creatively sharing recipes using infused olive oils and vinegars. This month we launch Cindy Lutini’s Event Concierge, specializing in all aspects of party planning.
Chef
Sakura Wagyu Beef
Westerville, Ohio
Sakura Wagyu Farms isn't just a company, it's a passion-based organization dedicated to crafting the highest-quality American wagyu beef.
In 2014, at a cattle meeting in Ohio, the idea of putting together a company producing and marketing regional wagyu angus cross beef was born. Some of the most experienced individuals in genetics, cow-calf production process and technique, nutrition and feeding for the best marbling, and marketing and distribution came together to recognize the opportunity in front of them. Their goal was to couple these resources with farmers who had a passion for producing the best beef with a holistic model that benefited them, their communities, and local markets.
Sakura (cherry blossom) Wagyu Farms respects the deep history and origin of the wagyu breed from Japan. The history of wagyu beef dates back centuries, where cattle were meticulously bred for their superior marbling and flavor. At Sakura Wagyu Farms, we honor this tradition by maintaining the highest standards in breeding and raising our cattle.
From their humble beginnings, Sakura Wagyu Farms has grown into a renowned producer, known for their exceptional beef that embodies the true essence of wagyu. They extend beyond the plate, with the Sakura team educating consumers and their partners to spread the love of wagyu, and how their wagyu beef elevates every dining experience to bring family and friends together.
Chef and Owner
Briskets & Butter Cuts
Greensboro, Georgia
Former professional golfer and PGA/Kornferry Tour Caddie turned barbecue specialist, David Kalpak brings together his two favorite loves with the creation of Briskets & Butter Cuts, serving Lake Oconee's barbecue and catering needs. While traveling the world on golf tours, food (especially BBQ) was a priority at every stop for David. It was during this time that Chef Kalpak fell in love with the art of barbecuing. He has pursued his passion for crafting delectable barbecue for the last five years, satisfying many appetites and patrons of Briskets & Butter Cuts!
Private Chef, Owner
French, For A While | Eatonton, Georgia
After marrying a Frenchman, Deborah moved to France for nearly two decades, becoming “French, For A While.” Deborah studied cuisine, pastry and oenology at Le Cordon Bleu, Paris where she became the translator/interpreter and assistant for Cordon Bleu’s top chefs. She is a specialist in French cuisine and is a personal & private chef offering culinary and gourmet walking tours of Paris and France. Deborah relocated to the Greater Atlanta area to be closer to family and now shares her culinary talents and passion for everything French.
Pastry Chef
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
Greensboro, Georgia
Michael Gaddy serves as a Pastry Chef for The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, where he oversees the pastry operations and menu creation for all outlets at the resort.
Born in Dade City, Florida, Chef Michael Gaddy’s love for pastries began at the early age of 10 when he started baking cakes and pies with his mother. The fire in him ignited at the age of 17, when he won Dade City’s Kumquat Festival with a decadent strawberry French vanilla cake.
In 2010 Chef Michael earned the position of Pastry Prep Cook at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida and continued as an Overnight Baker for the Orlando World Center Marriott. By 2012, he held the title of Pastry Lead Baker, and in 2014 he was crowned with the title of Outlet Pastry Supervisor, where he created plated desserts for all six outlets of the 2,200 room hotel. In 2015, Chef Gaddy became the Pastry Supervisor for banquets, charged with the task of plating for events with up to 5,000 attendees.
Along his journey, Chef Michael has traveled to Zürich, Switzerland; Rye, New York; Miami, Florida; Nassau, Bahamas; Atlanta, Georgia; Chicago, Illinois and many other cities crafting pastries and learning new techniques to further his career. One thing remains the consistent through all his travels, his Caribbean roots and whimsical spirit are tasted in all of his creations.
Sous Chef
Amore del Lago
Greensboro, Georgia
Chef Marcus brings the skills honed by working at both of Florida's AAA Five Diamond restaurants; Sea Horse Grille and SALT. For more than 15 years Chef Marcus has thrived sharing and growing his broad knowledge of American, Italian, Latin and Asian Cuisine in dynamic kitchens renowned for delivering the highest quality of food.
Steady growing and learning has always been the key to his success. His mentors include many celebrity and Michelin Star chefs.
Through the years Marcus worked at many private clubs and luxury hotels. Before coming to Lake Oconee, Chef Marcus worked four years at The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island with Michelin Star Chef Okan Kilizbayar.
He was the Cook Tournant for the SALT Restaurant which is one of two five star and five diamond restaurants in Florida.
Today, Marcus Davis is Sous Chef of Amore del Lago, an Italian concept restaurant housed within The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee.
Baker
Gracefully Baked
Greensboro, Georgia
Grace is a local of Lake Oconee and previously a personal trainer at Core Blend Training until, encouraged by her husband and family, she made a few local Facebook posts about her decadent creations. After several orders for sourdough, she decided to join the Harmony Farms Farmers Market for just one Saturday in May of 2024. Grace sold everything she brought to market. Returning each Saturday, she began growing relationships with repeat customers.
Deciding to make this hobby a business, Grace befriended other small business owners, and, within a few short months, Gracefully Baked grew beyond expectations. Gracefully Baked products can be found via website at gracefullybaked.shop or in store at Scratchers Creek Market or Scratchers Creek City Market!
Chef & Owner
The Burch Food Truck
Greensboro, Georgia
Casey moved to Lake Oconee in 2014 where he found his wife Morgan, forever home and three adopted dogs, Kota, Skye & Todd. He has an extensive background within the culinary world and has most recently worked with Wolfgang Puck and other local luxury resorts. During the pandemic he quickly realized he could expand his talents by sharing culinary creations with the community and therefore, The Burch was created! The brand started as a provisional sales small business and catering gig and since has expanded into a full service food truck at Oconee Brewing Company in Greensboro, GA. In addition to the food truck Casey alongside his co-owner and more importantly friend, Jon Altizer-Bieger, have now launched the newest restaurant in Lake Oconee called Table at the Lake. At TATL, the team brings you New American cuisine in a beautiful casual fine dining atmosphere. The seasonal menus use the highest quality ingredients, sourced both locally and regionally whenever possible, that represent the diverse food culture and heritage across America and the South.
Casey Burchfield will present at The Brew & Que as The Burch, and at The Grand Tasting as Table at the Lake.
Executive Chef
The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta
Atlanta, Georgia
Quinn Bullard brings exceptional culinary leadership and a passion for innovative cuisine to his role as Executive Chef at The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta. With a distinguished career spanning luxury hotels including The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, The Ritz-Carlton, Portland, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Francisco and The Us Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego; he is excited to bring his expertise and creative vision to Atlanta, home to one of the two Ritz-Carlton hotels in Georgia.
Inspired at an early age while cooking alongside his father and grandmothers in New Hampshire, Chef Bullard developed a lifelong appreciation for the power of food to create lasting memories. His culinary philosophy focuses on continuous evolution and sustainability, recognizing that modern chefs must balance artistic presentation and flavor with environmental responsibility and mentorship of the next generation. Known for his creative integration of sweet and savory flavors and masterful use of smoking techniques, Chef Bullard brings both classical training and contemporary innovation to his menus.
Outside of the kitchen, Chef Bullard enjoys exploring Atlanta’s diverse food scene in search of the best tacos, ramen, and barbecue, and experimenting with new techniques at home. An avid outdoorsman and music enthusiast, he brings the same passion for discovery and creativity to his culinary skills as he does to his personal pursuits of snowboarding, surfing, riding his motorcycle, and collecting vintage vinyl records.
Pitmasters
5B Barbeque & Brews
Greensboro, Georgia
Here at 5B, our daily goal is to create, serve and enjoy fine food that takes elevated BBQ to the next level and daily specials with ethnic flare that will delightfully surprise you. We serve Texas Style BBQ and also great food that’s in season, food from around the globe and food that’s distinctly different. Every morning before opening the 5B kitchen, we stock our shelves with market fresh ingredients, so that the food we serve you is as fresh and flavorful as can be.
And don't forget the cocktails. We love a great beer or a Rum that's been partnered and mixed to perfection!
We welcome you to our restaurant and wish you a hearty appetite.
Owner
Lil' Bit of Heaven Cupcakes
St. Albans, West Virginia
Teri Blevins started her culinary career creating snacks for siblings and friends in exchange for doing her chores in her hometown of St. Albans, WV. Known as the Food Mom, Teri has had a lifelong passion for baking and cooking. In 2010, Teri entered Duncan Hines Red Carpet Cupcake Challenge and she placed in the top 10 nationally. The result was a flurry of inquiries, and Lil’ Bit of Heaven Cupcakes was born on August 1, 2010! Lil’ Bit of Heaven Cupcakes has grown into one of the most successful bakeries in WV and in 2016, Lil’ Bit of Heaven Cupcakes moved into a beautiful historic brick and mortar bakery on Main Street in St. Albans.
In the last nearly 8 years, over 150,000 happy customers have enjoyed gourmet cupcakes, Heavenwiches (gourmet cookie sandwiches) homemade pepperoni rolls, scones, cakes, cheesecakes, Keto desserts and more.
Teri proudly provided cupcakes for Paula Deen’s Bag Lady Foundation Fundraiser at Lake Oconee, GA.
Lil' Bit of Heaven has been named in the 101 Most Unique Places to Dine in WV, and has been named #24 out of the Best 101 Cupcakes in the US by the Dailymeal.com., named Best Local Bakery in WV by MSN, BEST Cupcakes in WV by delish.com and Spoon University.
Local awards include being named Best Cakes and Cupcakes in the Valley (2019 and 2023), WV Living Magazine Best Pepperoni Rolls in WV (2020 & 2021), WV Weddings Magazine's Best Wedding Cake in WV (2021 and 2023.and WV Weddings Magazine Best Grooms Cake in WV (2022).
Chef and Owner
Lady Belle
Atlanta, Georgia
Bonjour Y'all!
Lady Belle is the creative culinary pursuit of Charlette Bell (The Lady) to combine French flair with Southern flavor. The mission of Lady Belle is purposeful in utilizing the universal language of delicious food to harmonize people, families and cultures. Lady Belle is a French-Southern fusion micro-bakery specializing in hand-crafted Parisian style macarons, Belle (Signature) Macarons® and savory Gritscuits®. No retail brick & mortar just yet, but you can find us at various metro-Atlanta farmers markets, numerous Georgia festivals and of course, right at your door with our nation-wide shipping!
Owner
Holcombs Bar-B-Que
Greensboro, Georgia
Luke was born and raised in Greene County, where he grew up around his family’s restaurant and developed a passion for good BBQ. From a young age, he knew he wanted to be a part of Holcomb's BBQ, a business that was started over 50 years ago in White Plains, GA by his grandparents, David and Grace Holcomb. With a second location in downtown Greensboro, Holcomb's has become a staple in the community, known for its delicious BBQ recipes passed down through generations. Luke is honored to carry on his family's tradition and looks forward to creating more nostalgic memories for customers to cherish for years to come.
Co-Owner & Managing Partner
Table at the Lake
Greensboro, Georgia
Jon is the Co-Owner & Managing partner of Table at the Lake; a chef-driven restaurant with a killer beverage program – TATL is a new Lake Oconee restaurant concept that launched in April of 2022.
Jon was born and raised in Southwestern Virginia where his love of both food and service became integral to his identity. He spent many hours alongside his maternal grandmother and mother in their home kitchens learning the many secrets of family recipes. In this environment he learned that food simply tastes better when it is made with both love and purpose. It was in these formative moments that Jon’s passion for food began.
Jon relocated from Chicago in 2020 and began working on the concept and business plan for Table at the Lake in January 2021 alongside his co-owner, Executive Chef, and more importantly friend, Casey Burchfield.
Sous Chef
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
Greensboro, Georgia
Growing up watching the Food Network, Chef Brittany Allen found herself infatuated with food. She began to develop an interest in culinary arts and a passion for becoming a chef at a young age. Chef Brittany was born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and attended William T. Mcfatter Technical High School in Davie, FL. Her culinary career begin to take off when she earned a Certification in Culinary and Food Service Management. While attending Mcfatter she competed in ACF Skills USA competitions (winning on her first time competing). She also worked for a banquet hall in her junior and senior year of high school where she learned more about working in the industry. After high school she attended Johnson and Wales University, one of the top culinary schools in America.
While attending college, Chef Brittany landed her first hotel job at the Mondrian Hotel in Miami Beach, FL. Working her way up in the kitchen brigade while steadily refining her skills has been a key attribute of her success. At the age of twenty two, after years of diligence and never forsaking her passion, Chef Brittany earned the title of Sous Chef. From leading and being lead Chef Brittany reached success at a young age. She has worked for hotels and country clubs throughout Florida and Georgia. One of her most recent achievements was having the opportunity to compete on The Food Network's Chopped.
Chef Brittany is now located in Greensboro, Georgia sharing her talents at The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee as Sous Chef for the Banquet and Garde Manger Kitchen.
Chef & Owner
Merci Beaucoup Cakes
Eatonton, Georgia
Upon launching Merci Beaucoup, a cake and pastry business, Reva rapidly achieved a reputation for creating innovative and tantalizing confections. This stellar reputation led to appearances on top-rated television shows and media coverage in national publications.
Reva has appeared on WEtv, E! Entertainment Network, Food Network UK, Style Network and Duff Goldman’s series Duff till Dawn. She is a two-time winner of Food Network’s Cake Wars and is a Food Network Wedding Cake Champion, Halloween Wars Champion, two-time Big Cake Champion and has participated in 3 seasons of Amazing Wedding Cakes. Reva has been featured in an extensive list of magazines and tradeshows.
Reva’s never-ending pursuit of excellence has led her to tackle new challenges that include expanding her operations to the East coast, developing a book, a web series on TikTok and sharing her decades of insights and knowledge through teaching the craft of baking.
Restaurant Chef
Gaby's by the Lake
Lake Oconee, Georgia
Born and raised in Stockbridge, GA, Justine's passion for fine food and a good time emerged early. In grade school, she showcased her love for cooking and singing a great tune. At 16, she began her culinary journey as a kitchen assistant in her uncle’s café, later honing her skills at Rockdale Career Academy. She continued her education by earning an associate degree from Gwinnett Technical College and a bachelor’s degree in Food Service Management from Johnson and Wales University.
After gaining valuable experience in Atlanta area restaurants, Justine joined Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee in 2016. Over the past eight years, she has continually refined her culinary talents—initially serving at Georgia’s Kitchen before transitioning to Gaby’s By the Lake. In February 2024, she proudly assumed the role of restaurant chef, marking a pivotal milestone in her culinary journey.
Recognized for her bold lipstick and vibrant personality, Chef Justine is passionate about refining her craft and advancing within The Ritz-Carlton brand. Outside the kitchen, she enjoys traveling, painting, unwinding with a relaxing massage, and spending cozy movie nights with her loved ones.
Tullahoma, Tennessee
Will Haul Ass Anywhere!
Has a Beverage Burro made the cut on your guest list yet? If not, they are a must! Absolutely adorable and adorned with flowers, our burros greet guests, pose for photos and offer deliciously cold beverages from their baskets. Go ahead and hug, kiss or pet our well-trained, long-eared furry friends, it is a unique experience your guests will be talking about for years to come!
We specialize in creating customized burro experiences tailored to your liking to create a one of a kind and unforgettable event. We do festivals, weddings, corporate events, parties and more! Our burros carry a variety of beverages, goodie bags, sweets, flyers, wedding flowers and more.
Red and Pebbles are excited to be featured at this year’s Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival. Come see us at Has a Beverage Burro made the cut on your guest list yet? If not, they are a must! Absolutely adorable and adorned with flowers, our burros greet guests, pose for photos and offer deliciously cold beverages from their baskets. Go ahead and hug, kiss or pet our well-trained, long-eared furry friends, it is a unique experience your guests will be talking about for years to come! We specialize in creating customized burro experiences tailored to your liking to create a one of a kind and unforgettable event. We do festivals, weddings, corporate events, parties and more! Our burros carry a variety of beverages, goodie bags, sweets, flyers, wedding flowers and more. Red and Pebbles are excited to be featured at this year’s Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival. Come see us at The Launch Party, The Brew & Que and The Grand Tasting.
For more information reach out to Colette Sides 931-307-0766.
Lake Oconee, Georgia
Scratchers Creek Market will be presenting an oyster roast for The Grand Tasting!
The Scratchers Creek family has been involved in farming for generations, and have a deep understanding and appreciation for the importance of quality and sustainability. Scratchers Creek Market offers a wide range of high-quality fish and meat products, including fresh salmon, tuna, and halibut, as well as locally raised beef and lamb along with natural chickens, turkeys, and cheshire pork.
Greensboro, Georgia
Scratchers Creek City Market - Downtown Where Local Is The Focal!
At Scratchers Creek City Market, we carefully select our suppliers so that we can offer local produce, meats, wine & beer and gifts.
Stop in for a sandwich or homemade soup Monday - Saturday! Lunch specials available Wednesday - Saturday 11-2.
Come gather on the patio for lunch, appetizers and beer and wine!
Bar open Thursday - Saturday until 8 PM.
We also offer catering, charcuterie boards, local desserts and grab & go meals.
Lake Oconee, Georgia
In our kitchens, we try to focus on freshly prepared food crafted with quality ingredients. We serve chicken made from breast meat, breaded by hand in-restaurant. Fresh produce is delivered to our kitchens several times a week. Salads are prepared throughout the day. Our regular Chick-fil-A® Lemonade is prepared daily with lemon juice, pure cane sugar and water. Serving quality food has always been our priority. Because chicken is at the center of our menu, we serve only real breast meat with no fillers, artificial preservatives, or steroids. Like other chicken in the United States, ours contains no added hormones. We source our chicken from farms in the U.S., in accordance with our Animal Wellbeing Standards and our pledge to source No Antibiotics Ever chicken.
Luxury Interior Design
Lake Oconee, Georgia
Each member of the Black Sheep Interiors team brings a perfect blend of professional and creative expertise. Black Sheep Interiors is a powerhouse of design experience and ideas. Our well-coordinated team creates beautiful, distinctive spaces to fit your taste and lifestyle. We can’t wait to help you create your dream home!
Owner and Principal Designer, Summer Wood has taken the company to extraordinary new heights - driving demand for the team's talent and design services even higher. Summer's love for design and deep knowledge of commercial and residential construction provide her with valuable insights that Black Sheep clients can rely on. Summer's understanding of the processes at work help projects come to fruition efficiently, on-budget and are completed with a depth of understanding that radiates through every space that has benefited from her artistic touch.
Country Music Band
Athens, Georgia
Will Slater is an incredibly talented country/rock/Americana artist hailing from the vibrant city of Athens, GA. With a knack for blending honest and relatable lyrics with an unmistakably Southern sound, he truly is unique in the music scene.
Teaming up with his fantastic band The 53, Slater draws from a diverse array of influences, crafting a unique fusion of country and southern rock that's absolutely captivating. You'll recognize hints of inspiration from greats like Tyler Childers, Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen and beloved local legends, The Drive-By Truckers.
Slater kicked off 2023 with the release of his heartfelt debut album, "Take Me Back," which he recorded right from his home. And that's not all—get ready for an exciting year ahead, as he plans to roll out a remarkable lineup of studio-recorded songs throughout 2024. The energy and passion in his “Borderline rock with a southern accent” jams are sure to resonate with listeners everywhere!