Still feeling it from our store opening event in Brooklyn, we knew we had to take it to the next level for the energetic ATL. Whether you know it as Hotlanta, A-Town, or simply Atlanta, Georgia, this rapidly growing area has gained a few new additions – four SNIPES store locations offering a top-tier shopping experience and an extensive selection of sneakers and streetwear. Stepping into the greater Atlanta region, we are honored to help support this vibrant hub with one of the richest cultural histories in the U.S. The city’s recent economic growth and innovation have led to a wave of Black American families uprooting their lives in densely populated northern cities such as Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington D.C. and relocating to greener pastures in the South. This New Great Migration that began in the late ’90s has caused a major demographic shift in Atlanta, helping it become the epicenter of black culture. ATL has birthed many modern architects of music and fashion as we know it today, including Hip-Hop and streetwear icons like Gucci Mane, Ludacris, and Outkast. Since Atlanta and its residents typically operate a cut above the norm, we had to leave it all on the floor for our introduction to the A.
The SNIPES team could not ask for a better venue to host this game-changing event than the legendary Cascade Skating in Atlanta’s Oakcliff neighborhood. The famous family rink has thrived in the business of making memories and selling fun since 1998 and shows no sign of slowing down. The famous family rink helped to create a national phenomenon after its appearance in the cult classic film ATL, sending skating’s popularity skyrocketing. Two decades after the release of ATL, starring T.I. and Lauren London, Cascade continues to serve as a major attraction for people of all ages in the Atlanta area. With the event taking place in such a historic setting, delivering an unforgettable evening for ATL and all those in attendance became a crucial piece of the takeover. Luckily, our incredible partners came through and made the event a complete success. The La Femme Phénix Skate Crew kicked the night off with a strong skate and dance performance that got the crowd moving and grooving from the get-go. Throughout the night, Grillz By Scotty – a fashion company specializing in custom grills and tooth gems – had its booth set up to provide their services while the Atlanta-based photographer Cam Kirk built a skating-themed backdrop for eventgoers to get their portrait taken. Cam, the founder of Cam Kirk Studios who got his start working with iconic trap artists like Migos, 21 Savage, and Future, continues to highlight creatives and spotlight local talent across the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Cam Kirk, Grillz By Scotty, and La Femme Phénix all supported the milestone SNIPES event and kept it rolling, but there was one more key element for the night to reach its full potential – a live concert featuring Atlanta-area artists Kali and Money Man with a special set from T-Pain. However, before the stars took the stage, the lucky winner of our SNIPES Soundbooth Contest had the opportunity to perform in front of 300+ attendees and open for some of Atlanta’s hottest artists. Five finalists were chosen for voters to choose from, but the race for the winning spot was decided by just one vote. Due to the demand for both of the top two artists to perform at the event, our second place finisher Akamani and our first place finisher P.U.S.H. both showcased their talents before Kali began her set. The concert truly set the tone for what the city can expect from SNIPES going forward and we can’t thank everyone enough who came out to support the brand and enjoy everything we had to offer. However, if you couldn’t make it to this electrifying evening of skating, dancing, and live music, you can stay tuned in since we plan on doing a whole lot more for ATL. The excitement for our arrival to the area is through the roof after the takeover event and we are beyond excited for the opportunity to push the culture forward and bring all the heat to Hotlanta. For the latest news and sneaker/streetwear releases, follow us on our Instagram read up on our blog posts, and download the mobile app to stay up to date on everything SNIPES.
