Even an unexpected downpour couldn’t wash away the joy of the Southern Nights Gala. Guests arriving at The Reed House were greeted by members of Campbell High School’s JROTC and the Smyrna Youth Council, umbrellas in hand and smiles all around. The historic home glowed against the gray sky, a picture-perfect backdrop for an evening of connection, community, and giving.
Inside, warmth radiated from every corner. Tables—draped in navy, cream, and blush—were topped with lush florals by KiraFlora, while signage by Instant Imprints guided guests through the stately rooms. The Sip! Truck was parked out front serving wine and beer, and the incredible grazing table from Meats to Sweets stopped everyone in their tracks—a work of art piled high with cheeses, fruits, and charcuterie that was every bit as delicious as it was stunning. The Wilson Trio filled the room with their exquisite sound, setting the perfect backdrop for mingling and celebration.
As rain poured steadily across the lawn, the Campbell High School Marching Spartans refused to let the weather win. Organizers quickly moved tables aside on the wraparound porch to make space for the band, and the students played their hearts out—drums pounding, brass shining—while guests watched from inside, clapping and cheering them on. Their energy added a joyful burst of hometown pride to the night.
After the performance, Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle Editor and Support Smyrna board member Stacey Scott welcomed guests and introduced Publisher Burke Scott, who personally thanked each sponsor, donor, and volunteer before turning the microphone over to Mayor Derek Norton. His heartfelt remarks about Support Smyrna—its mission, its impact, and the lives it touches—resonated with everyone in the room. Presenting sponsor Dr. John Lipman of Atlanta Fibroid Center shared his affection for Smyrna and why supporting its people matters so much to him.
The food was another highlight, thanks to local favorites Atkins Park, Good Kitchen, Hokido Japanese, and Zucca, as well as Smyrna’s Great American Cookie Company. A special nod goes to Veronica and Peter Tompkins of Good Kitchen, who flawlessly coordinated service throughout the evening—gracefully navigating the night’s surprises with poise, teamwork, and trademark smiles. Behind the scenes, Support Smyrna Chair Laura Norton, along with board members Colleen Oakley Tull, Michelle Osborne, Daniel Parker, and Stacey Scott, plus a handful of dedicated volunteers, brought it all to life with heart and hustle.
No gala is complete without a little friendly competition, and the silent auction delivered just that. Tables overflowed with treasures donated by local businesses and residents alike—handcrafted jewelry, original artwork, autographed books, vacation getaways, sports-suite experiences, grills, and more. Guests lingered over the displays, swapping bids and smiles, knowing that each dollar raised would help a Smyrna neighbor in need. The collection was a stunning showcase of community talent, generosity, and heart.
A Mission Rooted in Kindness
Support Smyrna’s mission is simple but powerful: to help Smyrna residents in need—children, families, seniors, and veterans—through direct, local assistance. What began as a grassroots effort among neighbors has grown into one of the city’s most beloved nonprofits, connecting resources to real people and meeting immediate needs with compassion and care.
Funds raised from Southern Nights support a wide range of local initiatives, including Gift a Family, which provides Christmas gifts to hundreds of Smyrna schoolchildren who might otherwise go without. Support Smyrna also helps veterans with home accessibility upgrades, assists families struggling with utilities during winter months, and steps in when unexpected emergencies strike. The organization works closely with local schools, churches, and community partners to identify those who need help most—and to deliver it quietly, personally, and with dignity.
In many cases, Support Smyrna fills the gap between crisis and stability. From providing groceries and school supplies to funding mobility equipment or temporary housing, every dollar raised goes directly toward improving lives within city limits. It’s a local effort with immediate impact—neighbors helping neighbors in the truest sense.
Looking Ahead
This year’s Southern Nights wasn’t just a fundraiser—it was a celebration of everything that makes Smyrna shine. The laughter, the music, the togetherness—all served as a reminder of how much good can happen when a community comes together with open hearts.
And while the rain may have kept everyone indoors, it somehow made the night even cozier, reinforcing the spirit of unity that defines this city.
If you missed it this year, make plans now for next time. Southern Nights is more than an event—it’s an experience. A chance to connect, give back, and celebrate the compassion that makes Smyrna truly special.
Learn more about Support Smyrna and its year-round mission to serve local families, seniors, and veterans at SupportSmyrna.org
Pull quote 1:
“Even a steady rain couldn’t dim the Southern Nights Gala’s glow—it only made the community shine brighter together.”
Pull quote 2:
“The Southern Nights Gala isn’t just an event—it’s a reflection of Smyrna’s heart, where kindness gathers, friendships grow, and neighbors lift one another.”