Kids | Maria Sims Group Blog

Wednesday, June 11, 2025 / by Maria Sims

Explore Downtown Canton: Shopping, Dining & Can’t-Miss Events

Downtown Canton, GA, is more than just a city center—it's the heart of Cherokee County, where historic Southern charm meets vibrant community living. With a walkable downtown, charming architecture, and a full calendar of events, it’s no wonder so many people are falling in love with Canton. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, Downtown Canton has something special for everyone.

Unique Shopping
Downtown Canton offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that blends vintage charm with modern style. Explore:
The Cotton Mill Exchange at The Mill on Etowah features over 150 artisans in repurposed historic mill buildings
Explore quaint shops along Main Street, including Downtown Kitchen and Downtown Fringe Salon.
· Antique Shops & Artisan Markets: Hidden treasures and handcrafted goods abound throughout downtown, perfect for home decorators and treasure hunters.

Delicious Dining
Downtown Can ...

georgia, local, canton, seasonal, events, real estate, summer, outdoor, food, north georgia, entertainment, kids, restaurants, budget, festivals, nightlife, parks

Tuesday, June 3, 2025 / by Maria Sims

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

There’s something magical about the first Friday of every month in Downtown Canton, GA—the streets come alive with music, food, shopping, and a vibrant community spirit. First Fridays is a beloved tradition that brings locals and visitors together for an evening of fun, entertainment, and small-town charm.

What Is First Friday?

Inspired by the Explore Canton GA event page (see here), First Friday is a free, family-friendly event held on the first Friday of each month from 6 PM to 9 PM (hours may vary seasonally). Downtown Canton transforms into a lively hub with:
1. Live music from local bands and performers
2. Food trucks & restaurant specials (perfect for dinner out!)
3. Local vendors & artisans selling handmade goods
4. Kid-friendly activities like face painting and games
5. Special themes (seasonal events, holiday celebrations, and more)
Why You Should Go
Support Local B. ...

georgia, local, canton, home, seasonal, events, real estate, summer, outdoor, food, woodstock, north georgia, entertainment, jasper, kids, blue ridge, ellijay, renovations, restaurants, fall, ball ground, buying, decor, homeownership, staging, festivals, upgrades, budget, farmers markets, home ownership, nightlife, parks, pros and cons, selling, brunch, pool, porch decor, recipes, tiny homes, waleska

Tuesday, June 3, 2025 / by Maria Sims

Beyond Cleaning: The Smart Seller's Guide to Staging That Actually Works

Selling your home can be stressful, but home staging is one of the most effective ways to attract buyers, increase offers, and speed up the sale. Whether you're a homeowner or a real estate agent, understanding the power of staging can make all the difference.
What Is Home Staging?
Home staging is the process of preparing a property for sale by enhancing its appeal to potential buyers. This involves:

Decluttering & depersonalizing (so buyers can envision themselves living there)

Furniture arrangement & decor updates (to highlight the home’s best features)

Minor repairs & cosmetic upgrades (like fresh paint or updated lighting)

Neutralizing bold colors & styles (to appeal to a broader audience)

Why Home Staging Matters
Statistics show that staged homes sell faster and for higher prices than unstaged ones. Here’s why:
Creates a Strong First Impression – Buyers decide within seconds? ...

georgia, local, canton, home, seasonal, events, real estate, summer, outdoor, food, woodstock, north georgia, entertainment, jasper, kids, blue ridge, renovations, decor, homeownership, staging, upgrades, budget, home ownership, nightlife, parks, selling

Tuesday, May 20, 2025 / by Maria Sims

Discover the Best Summer Camps Near Canton, GA for 2025

Summer 2025 is just around the corner, and families in Canton, Georgia, have an array of exciting camp options to choose from. Whether your child is into sports, arts, nature, or science, there's a camp tailored to their interests.

Cherokee Recreation & Parks Camps
The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency hosts a variety of camps for kids ages 5–12:
Adventures Express Camp: Held weekly from May 27 to July 31 (excluding the week of July 4), with locations at The Buzz in Canton, The WREC in Woodstock, and Hickory Flat Gym.
https://www.kidsactivesummercamp.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22370099943&gbraid=0AAAAADjqlxSdvdV6UDTNt1u8dMFrM1-up&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0LDBBhCnARIsAMpYlAoILz9RdHu6V52Lsq1L7aZOTQQ1WjjZNc2jxInNzN-2cwgs4veY2M0aAjx8EALw_wcB

CCAC Splish Splash Camp: A water-themed camp at the Cherokee County Aquatic Center from June 30 to July 2.
Make a splash this school break at the Aquatic Center’s Splish Splash Camp! Campers will enjoy a fun-fi/ ...

georgia, local, canton, seasonal, events, summer, woodstock, north georgia, entertainment, jasper, kids, camp

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 / by Maria Sims

Celebrate Fall Y'all: Apple Picking and Pumpkin Patch Fun in North Georgia

Hey y'all! Fall has finally graced us with its sweet presence, and there's no better way to soak up this glorious season than with some good old-fashioned apple picking and pumpkin patch adventures. North Georgia is famous for its stunning fall foliage and charming farms. Here's your guide to the best apple and pumpkin spots that'll have you feeling all the fall vibes!
Apple Picking Adventures
Nothing tastes better than a crisp, juicy apple picked fresh off the tree. North Georgia’s apple orchards are the perfect places to make some sweet memories with family and friends. From sipping fresh cider to munching on apple fritters, you’ll be in autumn heaven!
Mercier Orchards, Blue Ridge: Mercier Orchards has been serving up apple goodness since 1943. Their U-pick events are a must-do, with a wide variety of apples to choose from like Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Pink Lady. Don’t forget to swing by the market for their famous fried pies and fresh-pressed cider. It's so good!
. ...

georgia, local, outdoor, seasonal, events, kids, blue ridge, ellijay, fall, festivals

Kids | Maria Sims Group Blog

Explore Downtown Canton: Shopping, Dining & Can’t-Miss Events

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

Beyond Cleaning: The Smart Seller's Guide to Staging That Actually Works

Discover the Best Summer Camps Near Canton, GA for 2025

Celebrate Fall Y'all: Apple Picking and Pumpkin Patch Fun in North Georgia

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Kids | Maria Sims Group Blog

Explore Downtown Canton: Shopping, Dining & Can’t-Miss Events

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

Beyond Cleaning: The Smart Seller's Guide to Staging That Actually Works

Discover the Best Summer Camps Near Canton, GA for 2025

Celebrate Fall Y'all: Apple Picking and Pumpkin Patch Fun in North Georgia

Recent Articles

Popular Tags

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