January 20, 2017

Meet Jonathon Bretti of Swan Coach House in Buckhead

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathon Bretti.

Jonathon, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
The Forward Arts Foundation was founded on September 21, 1965, as a non-profit organization by twelve visionary and community-minded Atlanta women. These dedicated art patrons selected as their home the carriage house of the Edward Inman estate, Swan House, located on the grounds of the Atlanta History Center. The home was the masterpiece of Atlanta’s internationally renowned architect Phillip Trammell Shutze.

The Foundation renovated the carriage house creating a Restaurant, Gift Shop and Art Gallery that opened in 1967. Through the management of these three Swan

Coach House entities, along with revenues from an annual fall Flea Market, a holiday Fashion Show, and the Swan’s Palette Cookbook, the Foundation fosters and supports the visual arts in Atlanta.

The High Museum of Art, The Atlanta History Center, Michael C. Carlos Museum, MOCA GA and the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center are among the beneficiaries of the Forward Arts Foundation Community Grants Program. In 1999, the Forward Arts Foundation established an Emerging Artist Award to recognize the most outstanding upcoming artist in the greater Atlanta Community.

Swan Coach House – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
The Swan Coach House restaurant invites guests of all ages to enjoy memorable events and experience treasured traditions built around the quintessential Southern dining experience. We value gracious hospitality, a well-trained staff & impeccable service in a beautiful setting. We take pride in building a positive teamwork environment. Since 1967 our goal has been to run a profitable business and contribute funds to the Forward Arts Foundation to support the visual arts in our community.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success can be measured in many ways. I personally define success at the Swan Coach House by simply listening to the guest stories and hearing their reactions. Our guest share with us memorable experiences from one generation after another. We are a hidden gem in Atlanta that carries its success through the celebrations of many life events, utilizing our beautiful event venue space. Truly a timeless classic, the Swan Coach House can be described by guests as a restaurant that continues to exude hospitality, family tradition, and an elegant facility. The joy in their voices, anticipation for the next visit, and sharing of memories can not be quantified in any sales tracker. For over 50 years the Forward Arts Foundation has expertly executed the southern dining experience. A true success story!

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