Fiona Bloom runs an agency representing talent across the globe called The Bloom Effect, advising and developing careers for some of the most recognized figures in music and entertainment. In her 30-plus-year career, she has done promotions, publicity, management, radio, event planning, venue booking, marketing, hosting, curating and lecturing and is active within the Recording Academy Atlanta Chapter and Women in Music. She also sits on the advisory board of a membership-driven organization called CoMuse.
She kicked off her career with a DJ stint at WRAS at her alma mater, Georgia State University, before starting an agency in the early ’90s with longtime friend Michelle Roche called Roche & Bloom. She went on to a successful run on local radio before moving to New York to do national promotional work at EMI/Chrysalis. Now she’s back in Atlanta, which she calls “one of the best cities for entertainment in the world.”
11 Good Things:
1. Atlanta United. Growing up in London, I was surrounded by football. My fave team all around is Spurs (Tottenham Hotspurs) — I know, I know! I support the underdog always. Sorry, Chelsea fans and Manchester United. So we have a decent football, ummm I mean soccer, team in ATL. It’s true. And who doesn’t love watching a good match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium?
2. Atlanta History Center. I just joined. It’s pretty incredible. They have a talk series, special events, some really good exhibitions, guided tours of The Swan House and the gardens are a hidden oasis. Most of it is shaded, so it becomes a respite from 90-plus-degree weather. It’s insanely humid here. The membership includes visits to the Margaret Mitchell House, too.
3. Idea Gallery. This gallery sits right at the beginning of Miami Circle. It used to be housed within a furniture gallery but is now enjoying its own space. My good friend Amy Spanier owns it. She has the most amazing eye for art and is also a renowned interior decorator. I discovered many artists at her gallery, including Ana Guzman, Amy Rader, Mark Jackson, Sadie Pennell, Merrell Thompson and Phil Saxson.
4. Holy Taco. Holy is right! First off, it’s in my favorite area of Atlanta — East Atlanta Village. I love the vibe and atmosphere. They even have a variety of vegan options. The chile con queso is OMG! Really fresh ingredients, great prices and they serve until 11 p.m. I find it hard to find good food options late at night here.
5. Birdcage. Great brunch spot. The cocktails are delish. It’s Latin American fare, and the shrimp and grits are to die for. And it’s in another fave area of ATL, Grant Park. And you have to go to Oakland Cemetery afterward.
6. Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. The largest Jewish Film Festival in the world and the best. I can’t wait to see what films are being presented in 2026.
7. Dres Tha BEATnik mural. This mural in Cabbagetown is an official cultural landmark in the city of Atlanta. It was made a landmark before his untimely passing and now holds even more significance. Dres loved to bring people together and inspire creativity. He was funny, charismatic, gentle, kind and one of the most talented hosts, freestylers and beat-boxers in hip-hop. Atlanta lost one of the greats, and so did the world. I was proud to call him a dear friend, and, thankfully, he rocked a few of my parties.
8. Weirdo: The Story of Five Eight. Atlanta resident filmmaker Marc Pilvinsky directed this compelling music documentary. After being institutionalized for schizophrenia and manic-depression in his early 20s, Mike Mantione turned to songwriting as a way of dealing with his demons. For 30 years, the loud guitars in his band Five Eight have kept those demons at bay. I worked with Five Eight in the early ’90s, so it’s a homecoming and full-circle moment to be back with them again. And kudos, also, as they will be added to the sidewalk as part of the official Athens Music Walk of Fame this fall.
9. Murrell’s Row Spirits. I love a good gin & tonic. I discovered this local gin at an event at the British consulate last year. They were doing a tasting, and I got hooked. So smooth and fragrant and locally distilled right here in Decatur. But go easy — it’s 94 proof.
10. Buckhead Theatre. I can walk there. It’s not quite the cool spot I used to frequent back when it was called The Roxy, but I’ll take it. Saw OMD there recently.
11. My balcony. I’m on the 13th floor. I’m probably the only person on the planet who isn’t superstitious, and, when I heard that this flat on 13 was available, I said, “I’ll take it.” I have my morning coffee, catch up on my reading and answer emails in the early mornings. I take a break to watch the sunset at least three times a week. It’s not a completely clear view, as there’s a large, tall building obstructing the sun as it goes down, but I do get the most beautiful hues of deep purples, reds and yellows.
