Creatwood Tavern Plans to Ring in 2018 “Rooftop Style”
Last year, Steve Shamatta brought Smyrna residents into 2017 in spectacular style at his new sports bar, Creatwood Tavern. When he heard rumblings Atlanta was not going to celebrate the New Year with a ball drop, he says “I got to thinking that maybe we could do one of our own. We contacted the city of Smyrna, and when they approved it, we started planning.
“At that time Creatwood was the only rooftop patio in Smyrna and the perfect location for the event,” he says. “We contacted a local welder who built the ball to our specs. The challenge was how to raise and drop the ball, but through trial and error we finally worked it out. The ball was made of 4-inch steel straps and wrapped in LED lights. We mounted it on top of a 21-foot pole on the rooftop.”
Steve and his team provided a DJ, Champagne toast and complimentary appetizers. Inclement weather didn’t dampen spirits, and the lower level was packed all night.
Last year’s success and excitement have motivated Steve to go forward with something bigger and more exciting this year.
“We would love to make Creatwood Tavern the official home of the Smyrna/Vinings New Year’s Eve celebration,” he says. “Our vision is that it becomes similar to ‘First Night’ events that are common in other cities which include community participation.”
As Steve prepares for his venue’s New Year’s celebration, he reflects on the events the past year.
“The year started with our restaurant packed with partygoers dancing on the rooftop until the morning hours,” he says. “Then, Super Bowl Sunday was unforgettable even though the Falcons lost. The opening of Suntrust Park brought baseball fans to our neighborhood. All summer, we hosted events ranging from pig roasts to luaus, but our most unexpected event was the eclipse with hundreds of people visiting our rooftop to watch the once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon.”
Steve believes in giving back to the community and has done so this year by hosting spirit nights for schools and fundraisers.
He says the quote he finds most appropriate for his philosophy going into the coming year is “The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday.
“This quote applies to both life and business in that we shouldn’t worry about being better than others, but only better versions of ourselves.”