The Golden Family
Blended to Perfection
For the Golden family, life in The Manor is more than beautiful surroundings and a spacious home—it's about shared values, joyful chaos, and deep roots in a community they cherish. Seven years ago, Steve and Gretchen Golden moved from Windward, a community they also loved, searching for a place that could grow with their big, blended family. They found everything they were looking for—and more—at The Manor.
Together, Steve and Gretchen have built a vibrant household full of love, laughter, and personality. Their family includes Cameron and Madison (30), Zach (26), Braden (24), and Preston Godfrey (16)—each with their own passions and strengths, all united by a strong family bond.
Steve, a Marietta native, and Gretchen, originally from Pennsylvania, met in the most unexpected way: as each other’s first post-divorce date, connected through work. That single date turned into a shared life, one filled with growth, change, and unwavering support.
Today, both Steve and Gretchen work together at Ganek Law Firm, where they opened an Alpharetta location to serve their community. As a real estate attorney, Steve finds purpose in helping people establish roots in the area they proudly call home. Gretchen’s love of hospitality and connection shines in both her professional and personal life.
Their children’s lives are equally dynamic and full of heart:
- Cameron and Madison are currently relocating from Oklahoma City, and the family is thrilled to have them back. Passionate about Jiu Jitsu and powerlifting, the couple also loves hiking with their two fur babies, Maya and Jazzy.
- Zach, a medical sales professional living in Rome, GA, is an avid outdoorsman and a self-proclaimed cat dad of two. Known for his knack for assembling anything and answering any trivia question, Zach is the family’s go-to guy for both brains and brawn.
- Braden lives for sports—both watching and playing—and has recently begun a career in the mortgage industry. When he’s not glued to a game, you’ll find him enjoying a round of golf at The Manor.
- Preston, a rising junior at Cambridge High School, is a passionate baseball player with a deep love for history, sharks, and random trivia. He’s a standout catcher who’s made an incredible comeback after an ACL injury and spends his free time sharpening his swing at Bell Memorial’s batting cages.
The family’s beloved rescue pup, Cora Bell, is nearly ten and well-known around the neighborhood. She adores all her puppy friends and is a constant companion on walks.
Weekends at the Golden household are lively and full of tradition. Gretchen’s kitchen is the heart of the home, where she cooks and entertains with joy. Steve keeps the laughter flowing, and their home is often filled with guests—especially during holidays when football takes center stage. Whether it's Steve and Braden cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs or Gretchen making sure everyone has a Terrible Towel in hand, every family member represents their team proudly. And Pappy, who lives nearby, insists Penn State always gets top volume, no matter what.
Locally, the Goldens enjoy staying close to home. Casa Nuova and Cork and Glass Wine Tasting are family favorites, and Espressos is a regular stop for the boys—especially after visiting the massage chairs at the nearby car wash. Longtime partners like Cue and Never Enough Thyme have catered their family events for over a decade. You’ll also spot them at the Alpharetta Farmers Market, walking the Alpha Loop, or stopping by District Salon, where at least one family member keeps stylish.
Gretchen has picked up tennis since moving to The Manor and enjoys weekend matches with friends, while Steve golfs whenever he can, especially when the kids join him.
As active supporters of their community, the Goldens are committed to giving back. They regularly volunteer at Meals by Grace, support Jesse’s House, and contribute to area sports teams in need. “It’s important for us to not just live here—but to serve here,” Gretchen says.
Some of the most cherished moments in The Manor include a surprise baby shower that turned into a party for a newborn who arrived the night before, graduations, and an engagement party for Cameron and Madison. These milestone events, along with impromptu family visits and holiday celebrations, have made their house a central hub for joy, love, and memories.
“When our home is filled with people,” Gretchen says, “there’s something for everyone. We can divide and conquer during the day—golf, pool, shopping, walks, or just relaxing—and then come together for laughter, stories, and food. That’s what makes this place so special.”
For the Golden family, life at The Manor is exactly what they hoped for—a place to grow, gather, give back, and thrive together.
Thank you Golden Family for welcoming Stroll The Manor into your home to celebrate your amazing family and for supporting Stroll as a valuable business sponsor. Visit Steve and Gretchen's Ganek-The Golden Team's Alpharetta location for all your real estate closing needs!