Sara Blakely
Who she is Founder of Spanx; the world’s youngest self-made female billionaire
Why you should know her You already know of her. But Blakely has stepped back into the spotlight for leasing 80,000 square feet for a new Spanx headquarters at Buckhead Atlanta. The relocation is just a move down the street, but her early commitment injected energy into the project and launched a slew of retail signings. FYI: IPO rumors abound.
Where you can find her Yebo for South African food. Souper Jenny for lunch. Sole Spa for a foot detox massage.
Donald Gesell
Who he is Personal shopper and Christian Dior representative at Neiman Marcus
Why you should know him Gesell has been with Neiman for twenty-three years—nine in Atlanta, handpicking wares for the Southeast’s female executives, top interior designers, and society ladies who fly in on private planes. Gesell has them dressing the part—in Dior, Chanel, Valentino, de la Renta—and though the clothes aren’t free, his services are.
Where you can find him Pricci and Portofino. The Forum. Cafe Jonah for brunch on weekends. At home on Wieuca Road.
Robin Loudermilk
Who he is President and CEO, the Loudermilk Companies
Why you should know him He’s the son of Charlie Loudermilk, founder of the Aaron’s rent-to-own chain, where he served as CEO. Robin Loudermilk’s company now owns property across the city—including 1.6 million square feet of prime mixed-use space near Buckhead Atlanta that it plans to develop (for instance, a boutique hotel beside Buckhead Theatre).
Where you can find him The Fish Hawk fishing supplies or Chuck’s Firearms.
Andres Loaiza
Who he is General manager and wine director at Aria
Why you should know him He’s one of the city’s finest front-of-house men. Intuitive, gracious, and engaging, he strikes the precarious balance between longtime friend and astute host.
Where you can find him When he’s not at Aria, Loaiza is enjoying sushi at Taka or Umi or exploring Tim Willard’s wine selection at Lusca—though, he cautions, “usually not all in the same night.”
This article originally appeared in our September 2014 issue.
