How To Make The Most Of Your Apartment Space
This post is really going to wet your whistle for minimalism. I didn’t get into the minimalist mindset until later in life and I really wish I could have brought it more into my apartment days. If minimalism interests you but seems too intimidating or overwhelming then I have some things to share that could help you turn your apartment into your own personal retreat. Free from unnecessary distractions and physical things that weigh your life down. To do this you need to think of your own reasons why. Why does minimalism interest you; if it does at all? What is your motivation? You may even need to write the reason/s down on a post it and put it on your refrigerator to remind you when you are starting the bang your head against the wall. Not really- but maybe. Your reasons why will be one of the things that will help you reach the goal of making the most of your space. “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” -William Morris Have you found your reasons why? For me it’s the peace that it brings into my life and that there is less to clean! And if I can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying moments in my home I’m all in. For some, their reasons why include having free time and just simplifying their lives. Got your reason? Ok, let’s go. (My retreat. Sometimes all you need is a good book and a cup of tea. Oh and comfy couch. And some pillows. And maybe some flowers. And a coffee table for when your arm gets tired of hold the tea…not much at all. Book: At Home with Madame Chic by Jennifer L. Scott) Let’s first talk about need versus want. Every space and circumstance is different and that makes your needs different too. It took me a while to figure this out. And as I continue on this journey I am still figuring this out. Something else that I have also learned is that our circumstances in life often change and so our needs must change with it as well. Everyone on this earth has basic survival needs. Food, water, and shelter. But from there needs widely differ. It would be impossible for me to tell you whether or not you need a computer. In most of our lives that is crucial to our livelihood, and although it does not fill our bellies, it’s still definitely a need. “Love people, Use things. Not the other way around.” -The Minimalists But then let us consider things we don’t need. For example, I could probably say you don’t NEED a giant ice-cream floaty for your pool but everything else you need to navigate for yourself and reflect on. And let me tell you, there will be growing pains. You will look at a pile of stuff you have acquired and wish you could watch paint dry instead. But let me give you some encouragement. It does get easier! And if ever there is a time to practice making your life lighter and more peaceful it would be now; while living in the apartment! There is a 3 step process that clicked with me that I would like to share with you. Although, there are many processes to simplifying your life this is the one that I have naturally created for myself and works the best for my own life. “Tidy house. Tidy mind.” -Unknown Step 1: Take everything out of a room! No, I am not crazy. I have tried over and over to just assess everything in the room and pick out what I don’t want. And this sort of works. But nothing works like this method. I will explain to you why in the steps below. Trust me. Step 2: It is only after everything is removed that I make piles and assessments. My piles are usually keep, giveaway/sell, and trash. This step goes hand in hand with Step 3 which is … Step 3: Create you dream space. Only put back into the room what you love, think is beautiful, and serves YOU to the best of its ability. Because really, who is doing the owning here? The stuff or you? (Can you tell our couch is “well loved”? Our little family of four happily piles onto one couch in our house. We got rid of our other couch during our move to Lancaster, CA from Las Vegas, NV and have not looked back since) Setting you up for success: Need some resources that will give you a tiny kick in the pants? I have some for you that might be helpful to you below. Declutter minimalist 30 day challenge. Interested in challenging yourself? Try doing this. I really like this printable version you can find on Cait Flanders blog. Books to read: At Home with Madame Chic By Jennifer Scott (really anything this wonderful lady writes) The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo Minimalism: Living a Meaningful Life (on my list) by Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus Stuff to watch on Netflix: Minimalism: A Documentary About Important Things by Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus I am in no way affiliated with any of these sources. This is just me dumping all the stuff I have learned onto you in the hopes of helping you to bring more peace and joy into your life. You’re welcome. Love, The Semi-Minimalist Meet The Semi-Minimalist. Mama and full-time student by day. Blogger and sewist by night. Born in Stuart, Florida she currently resides in the southern California desert. Beginning her blogging journey in December of last year she has also spends her spare time developing both her home with minimalism and beginning the journey of creating her business of ethically sourced clothing. Read more at Thesemiminimalist.com or find her on
To Roomie or Not to Roomie
Having a roommate isn’t for everyone. When you are by yourself there is no one to get on your nerves. No conflict or someone who leaves their dirty socks in the living room. Just you, yourself, and I. Although, there are many positives to having a roommate that might just surprise you, and hopefully if you follow my expert tips you can mitigate any potential dirty sock situations. “I really dove head first into this whole roomie situation.” Having been in the military I have been forced into the roommate debacle. My first experience was rooming with 50+ other girls for an entire month. I called this basic military training (BMT). I really dove head first into this whole roomie situation. While, I didn’t get along with everyone there was a lot that I learned from the experience. One, was that there were some people that I really clicked with, and others that I’d think twice about. The ones that I did click with, we had each other’s back and really helped each other out when we needed it. Although, this is a roommate scenario on steroids, and not something I would recommend long term, the opportunity to find people to bond with and learn about was priceless. The next roommate I had was in tech school. We shared an 8×10 room and shared the bathroom with two other girls. We roomed together for a total of 6 months. This was where I really started to enjoy the experience as I met my best friend during this time. If you haven’t guessed it by now we were roomies! She was my best partner in crime. We looked out for each other’s and were each other’s shoulder to cry on. And, again, while I understand that having a roommate isn’t for everybody here are some things to consider below to help you make that decision for yourself. (I love this dorky picture of me and my best friend, Mistry Lousch. It was taken with a disposable camera at a parade in San Antonio, TX during tech school. Although this was taken in 2008 to me it looks like a nostalgic Wonder Year’s photo). Why I would recommend having a roomie: Cheaper rent. This is a major motivation in why most people choose to seek out a roommate. And let’s face it- money does make the world go ‘round. Having a roommate gives you the ability to free up income. What might this go to? Well, the skies the limit. This could go towards traveling abroad, a weekend local adventure (aka ROADTRIP!), or pursuing your own personal hobbies or self-development. Developing interpersonal skills. This might take you the most out of your comfort zone but something that is worth its weight in gold. If I could give my younger self any one piece of advice it would be to pursue chances to be out of my comfort zone to learn something new. This is often where you grow the most! Living in the same space with someone who is not a family member is a good way to sharpen those skills; skills that are priceless and will be used throughout your life, for the rest of your life! Sharing is Caring. Depending on your current living situation this may benefit you differently than it would someone else. Living in one apartment typically means you only need one blender, one set of silverware, once shower curtain, etc. I think that you get the picture. The point that I am trying to make is depending on the relationship between you and your roommate you could potentially minimalize your life and share items in your living space instead of having duplicates. Have you heard about libraries of things? Well, this is similar only you don’t even have to return the items unless your roommate moves away. This is not only a good way to cut costs but to help lower the amount of things we purchase and bring into our lives as well. This clears our mind from clutter and did I mention save some mullah? Sounds like a win-win to me! Okay now that you are convinced that getting a roomie is the best idea since sliced bread it is important that you choose your new roomie carefully. I will leave you with a couple tips for the best roommate experience ever because I don’t want you to miss out on meeting someone who you will potentially want in your life for the remainder of your life! (This is my bestie and me at the PBR show in Las Vegas, NV. She was stationed at Vandenberg AFB was I was stationed at Creech AFB. Apart but together.) “Consider that not only are you choosing a roommate but that they are choosing you.” Choose your roomie carefully: Choose someone who you may already know. This could give you a good idea as to their character and if you trust them enough to live with them. Create an interview process. If you do not know them very well beforehand make sure to set up a process that allows you to make a smart decision. Ask a lot of questions and try to get to really know them. Even ask for references of people that can vouch for their character or that have been their roommate previously. Be open as well. Consider that not only are you choosing a roommate but that they are choosing you. A little Communication goes along way. This is part of the magic of having a roommate. You don’t always agree and you may find what they do to be weird but don’t give up hope. I have found that in every living experience that I have had, apartment or otherwise, that as long as there was an open stream of communication I was less likely to feel annoyed but the other person. I was also able to feel that
Eat Like a Local in Birmingham Alabama
In our business we get the chance to play tour guide to incoming residents who choose to make Birmingham either a temporary or permanent home. We’ve had the pleasure of guiding many visitors in the direction of so many attractions, eateries, and local “watering holes” that we’ve created a compilation of our most insightful dining recommendations. There are so many hot spots to sit, eat, and enjoy that it’s easy to become overwhelmed if left to the task on your own. In fact freelance travel writer Carolanne Roberts of Southern Living says, “there are so many options, you can eat out every day of the year” without re-visitation. Whether you’re new to town, getting reacquainted with the area or just want a fresh look at the most appetizing dining options, this list is sure to wet your whistle. A sweet find that’s pet friendly: As a family and pet friendly community, we relish the chance to brag about local spots that are as welcoming to pets too. The Continental Bakery in Mountain Brook is just such a place. It’s not uncommon to see family members meeting up for breakfast in the morning. Mom’s with strollers meeting their husbands during a workout break with “furry babies” in tow! When we stopped by we happened upon a gorgeous Labradoodle who was more host than pet. He greeted everyone that walked by and made rounds for lots of good rubbings. Inside the bakery you’ll discover a well stocked wall of artisan breads, local goods & at atmosphere very close to the inside of a French cottage. Before you know it, it’s time to head back to work and you walk out of their oversized antique door, looking forward to tomorrow. Fine Dining: Birmingham is known for its fine dining options and three of the most popular with local and visitors alike are Highlands Bar & Grill, Bottega Cafe, and Chez Fonfon. With Master Chef Frank Stitt at the helm, the flavors that exude from any of these three locations will certainly take your taste buds on a trip of a lifetime. If you’ve never had a chance to taste your way through Europe, seize the day from within the city limits of Birmingham, Alabama. Highlands Bar & Grill made the number 50 position of Top 100 restaurants in America and is the only Alabama restaurant on the list. You never know who you might see there from celebrities to famous authors, food critics or, your next door neighbor. Fine dining. Superb service. Fabulous cocktails! If you’re a martini snob – it’s the best place ever for a dirty martini. Bottega Café – Everyone loves Bottega Café, with its option of al fresco outdoor dining, especially at happy hour or brunch. Go there to see and be seen. Everything at Frank and Pardis Stits restaurants is to die for, but our go-to is the Crab cakes—all crab, delicately seasoned, never getting in the way of flavor. Must have drink? Try their famous West Texas Cocktail. Chez Fon Fon – Everyone loves Bottega Café, with its option of al fresco outdoor dining, especially at happy hour or brunch. Go there to see and be seen. Everything at Frank and Pardis Stits restaurants is to die for, but our go-to is the Crab cakes—all crab, delicately seasoned, never getting in the way of flavor. Must have drink? Try their famous Orange Thing – that’s what you’ll see everyone sipping as they enjoy food and friends at one of Birminghams favorite places. Night Life: In downtown Birmingham, 20th Street offers so many choices that it’s tough to pick one. For those who want to take their culinary experience out on the town we suggest you stroll down 20th Street and discover what delights you. “Taste it all” as you stroll the streets, experience the atmosphere and nibble your way through a variety of available eateries. According to Yelp, reviewers rate these delicious choices as the the top 5 places to stop during your stroll down 2oth Street. Paramount Bar, Trattoria Centrale, Ono Poke, Brick & Tin, Cafe Dupont Artistic Flair: For those inclined to observing art and sipping great wine, Gallery 1930 is the perfect place to start. Here you will find a combined bar and art gallery home to many local artists. Keep an eye out on upcoming events as they like to have artist present their work. For example, they hosted artist Arthur Price in May. Tech Minded: The Revelator Coffee House on 3rd Avenue is the perfect environment for the digital nomad. This is not just a quick place to grab a cup of “joe”, but a meticulously thought out environment for serious coffee connoisseurs. We wanted to try something a bit different to test their skills, and we weren’t disappointed. We ordered the “Capim Branco” brimming with notes of toasted coconut, toffee, chestnut and tamarind. It comes black, so if you want to enjoy the bold notes with cream be sure to ask. Adorned in a simple layout, magnified with iridescent banners that line the wall from floor to ceiling. When the morning light hits it just right you will see the life of the city outside dancing around as visitors start their day. All that’s left is to decide when to go. Enjoy!
A Day In the Life of a Retreat Resident
It’s seven o’clock and your alarm goes off. You turn a few times in the sheets pondering your first steps of the day. The wake mode on your Bose Wave Music System begins to quietly warn you that it is time to rise n’ shine, as the full-wake mode turns up the sound and bass. Rubbing the sleep from your eyes your ears pick up the lyrics of Adele’s “Rolling in The Deep.” It’s a good morning! The sun is cresting the horizon, birds are chirping, and you live at The Retreat at Mountain Brook! With feet on the floor you stretch that nice big “day welcoming” stretch, which is more a universal taunt for the day to “bring it” and then you’re off to your elegant Presley modeled bathroom. Deep elegant hardwoods caress your steps in the chic en-suite where you plant yourself in front of the mirror as the music begins its first crescendo. You throw your head back and belt it with Adele “…we could have had it all…” Five songs later you’re showered, dressed, and put together. As the music fades out in the background you grab your Jasmine Leather Simone Satchel, pause at the mirror next to the door to take one last check. “Let’s do this!” You leave your townhome in The Retreat’s Highland Village, and make a quick stop by the Club House for complementary coffee. As you’re preparing a cup at the coffee-house-quality, self-service station, you briefly chat with a group on their way to tennis lessons at the on premises championship-modeled tennis courts. Exiting Highland Village, you see a gentleman in the community garden clipping a bouquet, and a couple in the bark park next to Canterbury Village playing with their dogs. Waiting for the light to turn green, you ponder the morning thus far. Life has moments that overwhelm us; both good and bad times. This is most definitely a “good time.” The light turns green and you’re off to the university to give the first lecture of your career. After a solid first day on the job you want to reward yourself with a trip to Western Supermarket, in nearby Mountain Brook’s Crestline Village. Perusing one of the largest wine selections in the state, you grab your favorite wine and cheese and head home to enjoy. Once back on the Retreat at Mountain Brook premises you notice you’re a little low on fuel and drive over to the complementary charging station for a quick charge. “They’ve really thought of everything” you think to yourself. As you’re walking into the Club House, you run into neighbors you met this past weekend, and they’re going to The Retreat’s once-a-month signature event, Taco Tuesday. That’s when it hits you—you realize your wine would pair better with new friends!
Meet the Oak Street Garden Shop and Local Market
The time of year has come when we stash our winter clothes (for the most part) and opt for flip flops, shorts and loose T’s. Outfitted, we hit the streets to wherever our hearts lead and for a large percent of us it’s to the garden. The feel of the moist soil in your hands, or smooth edge of a flower petal as you gently plant, overwhelms and delights you. If that’s true for you, you share a passion with 35% of Americans who decide to grow food at home or in a community garden. We made our community garden with everyone in mind! If you’re looking to enjoy your own tomatoes or beans later this year, or perhaps you’re looking to cultivate flowers for the serenity it brings, we have enough space for your project. If you don’t know where to begin or what to buy we’d like to introduce you to Oak Street Garden Shop. Oak Street Garden Shop is a local garden shop located in Mountain Brook, just minutes from The Retreat. They’ve been located in Crestline Village within the city of Mountain Brook, Alabama, since 1990. They are known for offering unique annuals, perennials, tropical plants, and shrubs! They also offer custom outdoor planter combinations which just might be the best in Birmingham! If you fancy an indoor arrangement, they can do a mixture of houseplants, orchids, and other flowers too! Oak Street Garden Shop is open Monday to Saturday from 9AM-5:30PM, April through December. We encourage you to stop by to check out what kinds of garden goodies you can find there as you prepare for your planting season. Now that you know where to shop, we hope to see you in our community gardening area getting those thumbs green and pants dirty! Happy planting!
The Semi-minimalist’s Guide to Apartment Decorating, in 4 Simple Rules.
Here at The Retreat at Mountain Brook we find great pleasure in providing inspiration to help our residents turn their apartments into a home, and we are delighted to tag team this effort with a new friend. Sharleen Graybill is The Semi-Minimalist and she has graciously offered to share insight into apartment decorating from a simplified living perspective. Please share Sharleen’s wisdom and experience within your social circles as she continues to share her journey to minimalism in the hope of creating positive changes in the lives of others. The Simple Life. It seems that everywhere you look people are now obsessed with adorning their living space with apartment flair. I am happy to say that I have never had that problem. Oh no. I just would spend ridiculous amounts of money on clothes from Forever 21 that would result in an overflow of clothes coming out of my surprisingly huge walk-in closet. But hey, nobody’s perfect. I did say that I was a “semi-minimalist” right? I would say that apartment living helped me learn a few things about how to make to most of my living space. And now, I’m happy to say, my closet is the least of my worries (even though my closet is now smaller, ironically). “I loved living in an apartment.” –The Semi-Minimalist I feel that it inspired creativity and thinking a little outside the box. I also had some of the best adventures finding wonderful pieces for my place. These adventures resulted in one of a kind items that I still enjoy in my home today. One aspect of minimalism is that you find out who you are since you don’t have to please everyone else and follow every trend. Below are a few ways to stay true to yourself and develop your own unique retreat in your apartment. 1. Flea markets, antique stores, and consignment stores OH MY! This was the most fun experience for me and still is to this day. I seriously got the best deals on some really cool items that I still use in my home to this day. There is never a shortage of gently used/used items just waiting to be found at garage sales, craigslist, or community yard sales hosted on Facebook pages. I mean how cute is The Brass Bear? Keep an eye out for quality items at a lower-cost. 2. Accept Hand-me-downs. I still have some well-made Tupperware and silverware that my mom sent me when I was a poor Airman in the military. Not only did I have something to eat with and a place for the food I didn’t finish, but I also had something that reminding me of home. Not only did they add to my apartment’s unique vibe but these items added to the homey feel as well. Maybe there is a one of kind quilt that an aunt has made or even unique pieces of fired pottery from high school that is true to you and your story. While everything old or containing history might not be a winner, keeping an open mind just might surprise you as to what is. For example, I keep an old hymnal my mother gave me in my living room. Can you spot it? 3. Be a rule breaker and don’t always follow the fads. Since apartments are currently all the rage this can be a tough one to resist. There are plenty of stores that sell a plethora of items that are adorable for your apartment. I mean they do actually sell flamingo floaties that you can float in, with matching flamingo cozies to keep your drink cold in the comfort of your apartment using a kiddie pool. I mean that is a need really. And fun fact: floatie isn’t an actual word…yet! But honestly, how many books on cooking and records with beautiful covers does one really need? I try to focus on one item that is a multi-tasker; such as a one good sharp knife instead of a food processor, a garlic press, or a stainless steel mandolin. “I also try to find pieces that are true to me, and therefore timeless.” 4. Keep it simple. A minimalist apartment would not be complete without this mission statement. Always remember that less is more and life is about the journey and not about the things we own. And honestly, everyone has their own weakness. Find what yours is and just work on it a little bit every day. And that’s it. Now you should be well on your way to minimalism and a perfectly sweet and high-quality apartment right? Enjoy your journey and feel free to show us what you find along the way! Love, The Semi-minimalist About the Author. Blogger, amateur sewist, and inspiration chaser. Living out of my element in the Californian Mojave desert. Trusting God and finding joy in whatever state I find myself in by taking one day at a time, making the world a better place through small and lasting improvements by creating beauty wherever I go.
The 8 best ways to enjoy our outdoors this spring
Spring is the time of year when we are all just itching to get outdoors and explore the freshly crisp prelude to summer. It’s when we start looking for every excuse we can to be outside, sit in the sun and just breathe in the fresh air. From hiking to planting, you will never run out of outdoor activities to partake in when you live with us, but here are 8 spring activities that we would love to share with you. 1. Access to Hiking. A brisk 5 miles away the outdoor adventurer can explore Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve which spans 1,038 acres on the eastern side of Jefferson County. Start your outdoor exploration at the closest trailhead found on the northwest corner of Irondale. 2. Private Patio/Balcony. One of the perks of living in one of our three villages is the fact that every resident has access to a private outdoor space. For those who choose a lower level, your apartment comes with roomy green space backing up to the woods. For those who choose a higher level, your apartment comes with a private balcony that flows effortlessly between several rooms inside the apartment; creating a natural indoor/outdoor living scenario. 3. Community Garden. For horticulturist, green thumbs, or even gardening newbies we have a special place for you to enjoy. All of our residents have access to raised bed garden plots that are well manicured and filled with fresh soil ready for you to plant your favorite garden goodies. 4. Public Dog Park. We would never forget our four legged residents as they are just as much a part of our family as they are yours. We’ve made it easy for them to enjoy the outdoors by building a safe space to get all that energy out. Our dog park is the perfect meet-up to visit their friends too. 5. Playgrounds. When families choose a place to live it’s often on the top of the list to be within walking distance of a park/playground. With sprawling grounds and an on-site playground we’ve made it quite convenient to walk over and enjoy a morning, evening or afternoon romp on our play gear. 6. Swimming. Our saltwater pool is opened and maintained year round so residents can splash, jump, or float around to their hearts content. Flanked by lush woods and adorned with patio trellises there is ample shade to take a break and read a book, listen to music or even nap. But we promise, our resort style setup will make our open-air space hard to resist. 7. Outdoor Entertaining. Accompanying the community pool area you’ll find a comfortable entertaining space fit for a crowd. Our residents are welcome to engage their guests as they cook, chat, eat and sip while gathered around the build in bar and seating arrangement under this pergola covered space. 8. Tennis Courts. For the athletic types, you have direct access to two professionally rated tennis courts on a first come, first serve basis to any resident ready to get their serve on. We hope whatever activities you choose, you are able enjoy every minute of your stay here at the Retreats at Mountain Brook!
7 Reasons you’ll love living here!
We’re Laid-back. It’s quite common to see us enjoying the grounds right along with residents. Whether it be at an event, cookout, gardening session or running around at the dog park. The atmosphere is just as casual no matter what setting you find our incredible agents or residents in. We’re Innovative. Our community comes with quite a few modern bells and whistles that include free WI-FI in the Residents Lounge and pool areas. You’ll also find electric vehicle charging stations outside our leasing offices. Inside, our apartment homes are wired for AT&T U-verse as well as outfitted with electric fireplaces. We’re Accessible. We are always available for you! 24/7 anytime, anywhere online customer service where you can also pay rent, submit service requests or email an associate at the business center. You can also find us at the leasing office Monday – Friday: 9am – 6pm, Saturday: 10am – 5pm, Sunday: 1pm – 5pm even if you just want to say “Hi!” Our location Rocks! Location is everything, and The Retreat at Mountain Brook has all the conveniences you need within minutes from home. We are nestled against the community of Mountain Brook, just off of Montevallo Road which is a quick trip to hip neighborhoods like Avondale, Crestline, Downtown, and Forest Park. Here you will find an abundance of entertainment, restaurants and shopping. We offer tons of space. We talk a lot about large, luxury living for less around here, and for good reason. We’ve done the math and have statistically proven we are, by far, the best value when it comes to apartment living in Birmingham, Alabama. In our recently reimagined 1, 2 & 3- bedroom apartment homes, everything from the closets, to the sunrooms are larger than most people expect them to be. To see for yourself, schedule a tour today. We’ve made it easy to relax. With peaceful, tree-studded surroundings, your resort- like space is great for curling up with a cup of coffee, glass of wine or book, and enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. The sunrooms and patios offer residents the opportunity to cultivate a Zen-like space that you’ll never want to leave. We’re outdoor friendly. When residents arrive at The Retreat they will immediately find this luxury community revolves around the enjoyment of the open air with accessible walking trails, outdoor kitchens, playground, Pet Park, community garden and saltwater swimming pools. The Retreat is located adjacent to the Flora Johnston Nature Trail, giving residents even more possibilities for recharging in the rolling, forested hills, adjacent to the Mountain Brook community. Although we can come up with a lot more than 7 reasons to love our apartment villages, this is a pretty realistic snapshot of what life can be like when you choose to make The Retreat at Mountain Brook your home.
Discover Your Gym Life at Our Birmingham Alabama Apartments
Having a state of the art fitness center on site is a really convenient way to save you money on gym membership fees. As our sprawling community continues to receive state of the art expansions, we’ve spared no expense. With 24 hour access to cutting edge equipment such as Inspire Fitness products, you can can’t help but discover the easily accessible “Gym Life” you’ve been looking for. Our team is passionate about offering residents a superior living experience that can be seen in every aspect of our most recent communal upgrade. This is one of two resident lounges (one with a full fitness center) that we are developing to create comfortable community lounges within each of our villages. The newest center is located next to what will soon be the new leasing center and is approximately 2100 sq ft, overlooking pool and outdoor grilling station. The lounge also offers residents gourmet coffee, big screen TV, gathering space and free wifi. Some of the amenities that make apartment living so appealing can be found throughout our villages. These include perks you wouldn’t normally get if you rent house like gyms, pools, BBQ areas, ample parking and wooded grounds. Feel free to stop by to take alook at our developments. Experience the Difference! Contact us today to find your personalized gym life and so much more at, The Retreat at Mountain Brook.
Meet The Retreat at Mountain Brook Team
Meet the faces of The Retreat at Mountain Brook who love to make living fun! We believe that selfless service combined with a jolly disposition are necessary ingredients to create a home, instead of just a place to rest your head. Our mission is to make our residents delighted to brand us “A Place to Call Home.” Natausha Oakes – Property Manager Favorite Quote: “We aren’t in the business of leasing apartments. We are in the business of customer service! We are simply people serving people who just so happen to lease apartments in the process.” Fun Fact: I’ve never broken a bone! Personal Interests: I am obsessed with makeup and hair products! Favorite thing about being on the Retreat team: “There is no greater fulfillment than getting to do what you love daily! Thankfully, I get to see so many wonderful improvements made to an already beautiful community! I am so blessed that I get to be a part of these amazing changes and so lucky to get to share this experience with such a phenomenal team! I have never seen a more cohesive and passionate team than this, and some days it literally takes my breath away! Together we work, we laugh, and we succeed!” Chris Heintz – Assistant Manager Favorite Quote: “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give” – Winston Churchill Fun Fact: Has had a lot of random jobs over the years including driving the ice cream truck, construction, and touring the US & Europe with his boy band. Personal Interests: Music, theater, faith, and beating everyone at the card game Skip-Bo. Favorite thing about being on the Retreat team: Every day is a new adventure. But we get the job done, and have fun doing it. Brandon Conaway – Leasing Consultant Favorite Quote: Everyone dies but not everyone lives so live life to the fullest! Fun Fact: I have been around the world twice. Favorite thing about being on the Retreat Team: The daily adventures of providing great service to prospects and tenants. Koty Ray – Leasing Consultant Favorite Quote: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step – Lao Tzu” Fun Fact: I’m a triplet blessed with a second chance at life. Personal Interests: To constantly improve the customer’s experience, by offering the best customer service in the Multifamily Industry. Favorite thing about being on the Retreat team: We are truly the definition of team and we always have each other backs. #family Danielle McClain – Assistant Property Manager Favorite Quote: “Go where you are loved. People who see the best in you bring out the best in you. Lupita Nyong’o Fun Fact: I was a cheerleader in middle, high school and college Personal Interests: I love Zumba did I say LOVE Zumba, I’m also a girly girl so I love shopping, going to get my nails done, and spa days Favorite thing about being on the Retreat team: I love how we are a Team, nothing is never too small or big for one of us to jump in and get the job done. We are one of the most professional and well-polished teams and I love being a part of it.
