March / April magazine

CHARLOTTE GIRL THE MAGAZINE

MARCH/APRIL 2017

Off To The Races

PLUS...

Your Perfect Derby Hat

Eating for a Healthy Lean Body

All That Jazz

3 Days in Savannah

Bringing Charlotte back into the jazz spectrum

Decadence ...and more

Dreamy Destinations A trip to Ireland

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

CHARLOTTE GIRL THE MAGAZINE

March/April 2017

Contents Features

Departments

49 | BRUNCH LOVERS PLANNING GUIDE

by Styled Social

4 | LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

55 | 17 TRENDS THAT WILL RULE FASHIONS FOR SPRING/SUMMER 2017

by Colleen Richmond

59 | DREAMY DESTINATIONS –IRELAND

by Allie Withers

65 | ALL THAT JAZZ

Bringing Charlotte Back into the Jazz Spectrum

by Scott Homewood

70 | OFF TO THE RACES: YOUR PERFECT DERBY HAT

by Allie Withers

72 | ANNE NEILSON FINE ARTS

by Elizabeth Sheehy

74 | CHATEAU LYON

by Elizabeth Sheehy

8 | HEALTH

Eating for a Healthy Lean Body

by Farrah Nazer

10 | TRAVEL

3 Days in Savannah

by Colleen Richmond

14 | CLICK 16 | FEAST Tavolo

by Scott Homewood

20 | SOCIETY SIGHTINGS

The Ambassador’s Ball The Charlotte Girl Launch Party The Wish Ball Heart Ball Ballantyne Ball Anne Neilson Gallery

photos by PPT Photography

33 | STYLE

Decadence

76 | EQUESTRIAN

The World Equestrian Games at Tryon

by Kendra Wingate

80 | ZODIAC

By Manish Kumar Arora

ABOUT THE COVER Photo by Southern Elite / Ray Dunbar Hair by Beth Gunter.

Make up by Natalie Gladden.

Model Savannah Jansen from Directions USA. Model & Artist Management.

Jumpsuit on model courtesy of Dillard’s Southpark Mall Charlotte Shot on location at Chateau Lyon. www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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letter from the editor

W

hat is going on with the weather at the moment? Have we bypassed Spring and jumped straight into Summer? Well, we’ll take it. We were lucky enough to enjoy a beautiful day at The Chateau Lyon on Lake Norman for our cover and Decadence photo shoot. With a big thank you to Scott Morris of Morris Costumes for letting us invade

his home with models, photographers , make-up artists and a Rolls Royce. We all had a spectacular time.

March is, of course, the month we celebrate St. Patricks Day. Where we’re all Irish for the day. Enjoy Allie Withers article for our Dreamy Destination to Ireland. I love some of her off the beat and path tips and look forward to our next trip to Ireland. Another personal favorite spot is Savannah, which is why we choose Savannah as our “3 Days In” article. Not to mention, it is legendary for their St. Patricks Day celebrations.

As we gear up for the Queens cup in April and the Derby in May don’t miss the article “Off to the Races” great advice for your must have hat.

We hope you enjoy this months magazine and would love to hear your thoughts Happy reading and Tally Ho!

Colleen Richmond Founder & Editor

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

S AM LOCK

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OUR SHADOWS ARE BLUE

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40 X 40

WE’ VE moved FROM SouthEnd TO SouthPark 5 32 GOVERNOR MORR ISON S TREE T‚ SUITE C-11 0 | CHARLOT TE ‚ NC 282 11 |

anneneilsonfineart.com

CHARLOTTE GIRL THE MAGAZINE EDITOR IN CHIEF, FOUNDER Colleen Guilfoile Richmond

ART DIRECTOR Kim Hall

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Farrah Nazer Allie Withers Elizabeth Sheehy Kendra Winegate Scott Homewood

CREATIVE CONSULTANT Rita Miles

PHOTOGRAPHERS Jeff Palmer Ray Dunbar Ashley Sellner

For advertising information, contact: Colleen Richmond at 203-561-5086 Letters to the editorial staff: editor@CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

www.charlottegirlmagazine.com facebook.com/Charlottegirlmagazine @Charlottegirlmagazine Charlotte Girl Magazine P.O. Box 79322 Charlotte, NC 28271 6

March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

www.sleepswag.com/shop

health

Eating for a

Healthy Lean Body

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by Farrah Nazer

hen you stock up your fridge and pantry with nutritious whole foods,

making clean meals will be really easy and time saving. It's all about preparation in advance and then staying committed.

The main key to keep a clean-kitchen is to keep your kitchen stocked up all the time with the right foods to help you reach your health goals. Prior to heading out for grocery shopping, making a list of foods can be helpful in saving time and curb those cravings to pick a processed food.

Here is a list of 31 healthy foods that you’ll use on the regular.

Leafy Greens:

Lemons:

Kale, baby spinach, Swiss chard-Pick these and add

Jump start your day with a warm lemon water for

a handful to your salad’s, stir-fries, grain bowls,

weight loss and detoxification.

soups, and smoothies.

Frozen Berries:

Avocados:

They’re great for smoothies and will be ready to go

Buy a bunch of them and have them ready to go on top

when you are.

of your salads, soups, and grain bowls.

Frozen Bananas:

Apples: There’s no better snack than an apple, and they can be added to your salads.

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

Makes them perfect to be added to any smoothie.

Organic cultured unsalted butter: Keep it to add to any dish for more flavor.

Organic Plain Yogurt:

Dried Lentils:

It’s delicious and packed with protein which makes

Lentils are amazing for your health. Source of protein

it a perfect pre-workout snack.

and healthy carbs makes them wonderful food for

Unsweetened Almond Milk:

energy and weight loss

It’s perfect for your morning coffee, smoothies, or

Canned or Boxed Beans:

to be added to oatmeal.

No salt added canned are packed with protein and

Organic Eggs:

good carbs and can be added to soups, salads, and grain

Have them anyway you like them, boiled, scrambled, or fried.

Frozen Wild Salmon Fillets: It’s a great to have them stored for q quick meal.

White Miso: The salty taste adds a flavor for marinate, sauces, dressings, and soups practically zero calories.

Dijon Mustard: Here’s another flavor booster to be added on to several dishes.

Olives: They’re great for snacking.

Fresh Herbs: Pick one or two that you really love and keep them to use regular.

Siracha Sauce: To add hot flavor to soups, baked fries, or stir-fried vegetables.

Parmesan: A table-spoon adds great flavor to any dish.

Vinegar: Vinegar is a must to have all the time. vinegar adds flavor to salads, and asian dishes.

Whole Grains: Grab a few varieties of whole grains, like quinoa, brown rice. Add them to grain bowls, salads, and soups.

bowls.

Canned Fish: Sardines, Tuna, or Salmon can be added to salads and Stir-fries.

Boxed Stock: Chicken and Beef stock is a quick way to make soups, and asian dishes.

Rolled Oats: Oats are the cleanest of the clean when it comes to cereals, as they contain just one ingredient, oats.

Natural Nut Butter: Snack with apples or banana with any unsalted nut butter for good fats.

Raw Nuts: Almond, walnuts, peanuts, and cashew are great snacks, and can be added to salads, grain bowls.

Canned Coconut-Milk: It can be used for many indian and asian dishes.

Diced Tomatoes: They can be added to many healthy meals like chili.

Whole Grain Flour or Almond Flour Basic Spices: These are great for low carb baked foods.

Green Tea: Green tea is great to detox your body.

Oils: Basically you’ll need two great oils to cook on high heat, pick ghee or coconut oil, use olive oil for dressings.

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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travel

3 Days in Savannah A visit to the “Hostess City”

A

by Colleen Richmond

Each year millions visit

of

people

Savannah

for its Southern charm and festive nightlife. One

of the most popular times to visit the “Hostess City” is during the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration each March.

Savannah definitely goes all out for their yearly celebration with non-stop opportunities for entertainment, delicious food, music, a parade and more!

If you want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style, Savannah, GA is definitely the place to be.

Hamilton Turner Inn Exterior Night

For those looking to enjoy the best Savannah has to offer during a March visit, here are some tips and suggestions for the best accommodations, restaurants, activities and even what to wear to make the most of your 3-day visit.

Location, Location, Location Hamilton Turner Inn

From boutique hotels oozing

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

with Southern charm to sprawling resorts, you will be pleased with your choices of places to stay for your fun filled St. Patrick’s Day visit.

Here are a few amazing properties in downtown Savannah: • The Hamilton-Turner Inn - Enjoy true Southern hospitality at the AAA four-diamond Hamilton-Turner Inn. Located in the heart of the historic district, the 17 room Inn offers luxurious accommodations, impeccable service, and gourmet treats to pamper the most discriminating guest.

• The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa - The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa is located right on the waterfront. The complimentary ferry service puts you minutes away from Savannah’s best downtown attractions. Suites with balconies, world class golf and tennis, an onsite spa, and upscale restaurant make it simply perfect.

• Mansion on Forsyth Park - The Mansion on Forsyth is a luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. The opulent furnishings and boutique amenities make this Victorian hotel a Southern jewel. Amenities include an onsite art gallery, cooking school, spa, and gym.

Mansion on Forsyth Cooking School

Dinner and Drinks

River and Bay Streets are the center of the action in Savannah on St. Patrick’s Day. There are a variety of popular bars and restaurants to enjoy. If you are looking for an upscale dining and drinking experience away from the crowds, try these unique places: • Melting Pot - This gourmet fondue restaurant is the perfect way to celebrate while in Savannah for St. Patrick’s Day. Amazing food selections cooked in fondue pots with unique drinks from the bar.

• Elizabeth on 37th - Located in a 1900’s Southern Mansion, Elizabeth on 37th has the perfect ambiance for their wonderful Southern Coastal menu. Enjoy a unique culinary experience rich in Southern heritage.

• Rocks on the Roof -Enjoy swanky bar drinks, a delicious small plate menu, and a cozy fire pit at this upscale hot spot located on the on the top floor of the Bohemian Hotel downtown.

• Lulu’s Chocolate Bar - Delicious desserts served in a glamorous atmosphere with amazing specialty drinks and martinis. You will love this chic dessert restaurant with a lively nightly social scene. www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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Forsyth Park Fountain Evening Photo by Andrea Six, courtesy of Savannah.com

What Should I wear?

Savannah is definitely a “walking” city, so comfort is key for day play around town. The cobblestone streets wreak havoc on high heels, so stylish yet comfortable shoes are a must. The weather in March is

Mercer-Williams House and Trolley

Enjoying the City

typically 70 and sunny, so a cute sun dress, spring-colored capris,

There are so many things to see and

or a fun, nautical in-

do in Savannah. Here are a few of the

spired outfit will work

city’s popular attractions: • Visit the beautiful Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

well.

For a night on the

• Tour a Haunted Mansion such as the Sorrel-Weed House • See All of the downtown Savannah Squares • Visit the Wormsloe Historic Site • Cruise out to Tybee Island • Visit Forsyth Park • Take a Cooking Class • See a Show at the Lucas Theatre for the Arts

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town, a sassy cocktail

Mansion on Forsyth

March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

dress with your favorite heels or dressy sandals is the norm for a downtown location. The weather may be a bit chilly at night during St. Patrick’s Day, so dress jeans and a cute jacket with boots would do the trick for a stylish but casual evening out.

No matter what you choose to do in Savannah for St. Patrick’s Day, you are sure to be drawn to this sultry, Southern city on the coast of Georgia and will soon be planning your next visit back!

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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click 1. Residential work: Laura Archibald Interiors and Ruard Veltmann Architecture 2. Residential Work: Pretty Perch Interiors, Kathleen Fox

1 Ashley Sellner I am a photographer and fine artist based in Charlotte, North Carolina. I attribute my passion for photography to a single class in the Sociology Department at Wake Forest University.

Upon graduation in 1997, I was perfectly positioned to shoot black and white candid images just as the market shifted from posed, formal documentation to a more photojournalistic approach. With the birth of my first child fourteen years ago, I transitioned to family and child portraiture.

I currently assist interior designers, fine art gallery owners, and artists with portfolio work and documenting projects for their websites and social media. My work has been in print regionally and nationally in the following publications: Savor, Four, SouthPark Magazine, the Charlotte Observer, and HGTV Magazine.

In 2014, I shifted my focus toward the continued exploration of fine art and illustration. I love being present in the process, getting messy again, and creating imagery with my hands. Currently, I am exploring the themes of light and line through a variety of media.

Contact: ashleysellner.com

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

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3. Sozo Gallery Install; Taylor Thomas, artist; Lindsey Coral Harper, Interior Design 4. Windy O’Connor

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5. Mixed media work from November 2016 entitled “Temporal 1”

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Are you a local photographer?

Please submit your beautiful Charlotte and area photos to editor@charlottegirlmagazine.com.

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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feast

Tavolo, taking great

Italian to the new level.

by Scott Homewood

O

nly ten short years ago the Char-

den and the like, authentic Italian fare was often hard to

lotte food scene, besides being

find. Thankfully, this situation has changed due to several

fairly boring, was ruled by mostly

factors, such as attrition due to the children of the original

Greek families. Although this sit-

Greek families not wanting to continue the family business

uation meant Charlotte had many

(which has in turn led to a scarcity of Greek food in Char-

awesome Greek restaurants and

lotte), the rise of four excellent culinary school programs

diners, it also meant even most of the Italian restaurants

in the area, and the migration of more families to the area

were owned and run by Greeks. This often made for an

from the North, bringing both the desire for authentic Ital-

interesting dining experience as between those restau-

ian fare and people with the means and skill to open these

rants and the pseudo “Italian� chains such as Olive Gar-

restaurants and prepare it.

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

This brings us to Tavolo, the new Italian restaurant located at 300 N College St in the heart of uptown. I have had my eye on this place for weeks trying to find time to get in there (being the fan of Italian food that I am) and was overjoyed when I finally got a chance to eat their Italian cuisine and review it for the readers of Charlotte Girl magazine!

If I were to summarize this review of our meal in one word, I would simply say it was excellent. From the moment my companion and I walked in, we were pampered as if we were visiting dignitaries! The hostess desk is set right inside the door so we were greeted immediately and with hardly any wait sent to a beautiful table in the middle of the sparsely and taste-fully decorated restaurant. We

choices from the Antipasto and Insalata sections of the

were having a later dinner (around 9 pm) on a week night

menu! We decided to pick two items from the Antipasto

so seating was more available than I have heard it normal-

choices and share them, the Calamari Alla Diavolo and

ly is on the weekends or during the earlier dinner rush. As

Carpaccio Di Manzo, both of which were very good. As a

a note I would definitely recommend reservations, espe-

calamari lover, there is nothing more disappointing than

cially on the weekend.

going into a restaurant and getting calamari with the tex-

Our waitress greeted us within a minute of being seated

ture of old rubber. Thankfully, the chef at Tavolo knows

and the menus handed out and drink specials and wine

what he is doing as the calamari was seasoned with just

availability were touched upon as is usually obligatory but

the right amount of garlic, combined with succulent cher-

our server made everything a little more special due to her

ry peppers and cooked just the way I like it, tender yet

attitude and helpfulness. Anyone who’s spent any time in

slightly chewy but not overly so. The carpaccio was simply

a restaurant can tell the difference between a server who is

amazing, and covered the whole plate! The thinly sliced

just doing their job or one who is really excited about the

beef was seasoned with cracked pepper and sea salt with

restaurant, the menu and the making the customer’s ex-

ornamental touches of arugula and shaved asiago cheese

perience an awesome one. Thankfully, our server was the

with olive oil drizzled on top. In a word “fantastic”. The

latter and her attentiveness and knowledge of the menu

beef melted in your mouth as it should and the flavoring

made the meal that much better!

was to die for.

After our drinks were served (after some great wine

We both picked the classic Caesar salad from the Insala-

recommendations by the server by the way) we made our

ta section, which has only four main choices, but can be upgraded to bigger, more meal-size portions and for various prices, have the protein of your choice added to them.

Other options include traditional Italian fare like Caprese, Chopped, and a Spinach Pancetta that seems like it would be a wonderful choice, especially with some shrimp added!

Maybe next time, as being more on the traditional side of things, the Caesar won out and was very fresh. The small portion I had was a decent size and I can see myself getting the larger size, adding some chicken or salmon and getting this as a meal in itself.

Since Tavolo is an Italian restaurant, I had to give it my personal Italian restaurant test – I had to order something www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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the recommendation of our server. There is no way of knowing if all the servers know as much about pairing wines and food as she, but she was excellent. My sausage and penne was amazing. The penne was just the right texture and flavored with onions, bell peppers and cherry peppers while the marinara was sweet but not overly sweet. The sausage (and the dish itself) was very savory and delicious and had heat, but not overpoweringly so. I would rather taste the other flavors in a meal than be wiped out by intense heat and this was just the right blend for me. If there wasn’t so many other things on the menu that I want to try, I would certainly come back and make this dish my choice again. from the pasta selection. As simple as it is, pasta can be

My companion loved her choice as well, the shrimp looked

tricky sometimes and hence often easy to do ok, but very

and tasted (I grabbed one!) succulent and fresh while the

difficult to do incredibly. A restaurant that can make pasta

parmesan cream and marinara sauce worked well together.

amazing is a restaurant I will be returning to over and over

The sweet and spicy peppers gave the dish a tiny bite but

again. So, that meant I had to pass up the multitude of

not as much as mine and left a lot of room for the natural

selections on the Risotto section and all of the interesting

flavor of the shrimp to come through.

Wood-Fired Pizza options (one, a Proscuitto and Fig pizza,

Alas, there was no room for dessert but the portions are

sounds so incredible to me that I have to come back and

generous here so there was food to take home for lunch

try it one day). Luckily, that still left many options open for

the next day. All in all, a wonderful experience at a very af-

choosing. I first checked out the baked pasta choice, which

fordable price point. Both of our dishes each cost less than

included two lasagnas (and interesting vegetable lasagna

$24 dollars and the appetizers and salads were reasonably

seemed like the frontrunner in this small section) but de-

priced for the portions. The wine was amazing and also

cided to save those for another outing here. Being the rad-

very affordable. I am impressed with Tavolo for sure and

ical I am, I decided to go with the classic choice (if I do

will definitely be coming back soon to try some of the other

say so myself) Sausage and Penne. Being a great waitress,

choices on their menu. Most likely that wood-fired pizza I

when I ordered, she asked me if I liked spicy as the sau-

saw is going to be next.

sage had a bit of a kick to it. I assured her I could handle it but was more intrigued with my choice as I would rather have a good spicy sausage than a bland one with no flavor.

She also advised that other pasta choices were available and I did not have to stick with penne if I wanted something else. I stuck with it, but must note that they have many various shapes and styles of pasta if one is more to your liking than another. My companion found her choice in the Seafood portion of the menu, choosing the Shrimp Fra Diavolo which consists of shrimp over fettucine and made flavorful by the addition of sweet and spicy peppers, caramelized onions, parmesan cream and a sweet marinara sauce with Italian parsley and oregano for savor.

These turned out to be excellent choices. After only a small wait, our meals arrived and we dug in. I must note that the wine chosen for our meals was perfect, thanks to

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

Hope to see you there!

electric Licensed - Master - Electrician

Over 30 Years Experience Specializing in your residential needs Rob McDowell ecctelectric@gmail.com 704.607.6705 www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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society sightings The Ambassador’s Ball

T

he Allegro Foundation held it’s 8th annual Ambassador’s Ball at the Quail Hollow Club. The ball is to raise awareness and funding for their free movement education classes held throughout Charlotte for children living with disabilities. Donations transform hundreds of lives of the children in our community.

The Allegro Foundation is a local non-profit that is in its 25th year as an independent organization. Which receives no federal or state funding. They strive to provide free of charge movement education programs to the children who so desperately need them. To donate go to Allegrofoundation.net

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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com

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1. 8th Annual Ambassador’s Ball 2. Teri Faulkner, Alan and Libby Simoninni, Daryl Faulkner 3. Fabulous food 4. Nancy and Michael Mc Nelis 5. Audrey and Rob Boisvert 6. Travis and Melissa Weaver, Karen and Eric Shockner 7. Barbara Jones 8. Bogulsawa Jeblonski, Andromeda Williams, Isabelle Canton

9. Dianne Adams, Al Fiore 10. Jeff Shapiro, Betsy Mack, Christie and Timothy Paul 11. Scott Vogelsonger, Jacqueline Veit 12. Lindsay Lewis, Ebba Karlsson, Pat Farmer 13. Gator and Virginia Henry 14. Razvan Theodoru, Isabelle Canton, Richard Oliver 15. Suzanne and Amy Elizabeth Pittenger 16. Lauren Newton, John Espinola www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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society sightings The Charlotte Girl Magazine

January/February issue launch party held at The Imperial Charlotte.

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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com

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1.The Imperial Lounge 2. Larry Richmond, Rita Miles 3. Carolina Madrid, Matt Spivey, Krista Froweins 4. Great Music 5. Andy and Colleen King, Monica Vasquez 6. Charlotte Soper, Kristen Honeycutt 7. George Hodge, Behrhan Nebioglu 8. Howard Spikes, Rob Mc Dowell

15 9. Jenna Casper, Skyler Serenbetz 10. Liz Egan, Colleen Richmond, Kallie Boruss, Julia Moulton 11. Mary Billingsley, Amy Dassner, Jordan Bailey, Terrence Swinton 12. Beth Gunter 13. Skyler Serenbetz, Jenna Casper 14. Marie Royale, George Hodge, Rita Miles, Behrhan Nebioglu, Stephanie Hawks, Minh Lee, Howard Spikes 15. Stephanie Hawks, Behrhan Bebioglu www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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society sightings The Wish Ball

M

ake-A-Wish® Central and Western North Carolina hosted the 14th annual Wish Ball at the Westin Charlotte. The Wish Ball is the chapter’s largest single event of the year, the Ball brings together over 600 guests from across the Charlotte and surrounding communities to celebrate the Power of a Wish.

The evening included an incredible cocktail hour, an elegant dinner, music, dancing, silent and live auctions. As well

as countless surprises both for and from local wish families.

Over the years The Wish Ball has raised more than two million dollars to make every eligible child’s wish come true.

Make-A-Wish grants children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. More than 4,000 wishes have been granted for local children since the chapters’ founding in 1985.

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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com

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1. 14th Annual Wish Ball 2. Tables are set for a great event 3. Gifts are wrapped 4. The Wish Ball 5. Blake Schrader, Gary Barber, Kyle Schrader 6. Alyssa Schaefer, Maggie Huffman 7. Christine Fail, Haley Ross, Kelly Wakeley, Briana Evans 8. Jennifer and Jeff Ross

9. Randy Clark, Eric Platz 10. Christy Keagy, Karen Murphy 11. Matt and Melissa Johnson, Eric and Monica Smith 12. Violet Spataro, Larry Sprinkle 13. Jane Singleton, Jay Myers 14. Dave Ferguson, Kellie Hart, Adrienne and Brian Pattie 15. Jack and Eleanor Bolton 16. Zack Luttrell, Jarrpd Gray www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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society sightings Heart Ball

T

he Heart Ball is the city’s oldest and most prestigious black tie event. This year marked the 59th annual greater Charlotte Heart Ball. The ball was held at the Nascar Hall of Fame and presented by Novant Health and TIAA. Attendees were treated like royalty and traveled back in time as they dined and were

entertained. Last year, the Heart Ball campaign raised just over $71 million nation-wide. Allowing them to fund life-saving research and prevention programs across the country.

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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com

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society sightings Ballantyne Ball

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his year marks the 3rd Annual Ballantyne Ball. It is Ballantyne’s annual Valentine’s masquerade ball for charity.

Held at the Ballantyne Hotel, this years beneficiary is Lily Pad Haven, who support victims of human trafficking in Charlotte.

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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com

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1. Valentine masquerade ball 2. Cheers!

3. Pula Broadwell, Grant Thompson, Grace Eberle 4. Svetlana Pavlova 5. Amanda and Jonathan Desrochers 6. Chris and Mc Kenzie Kanos, Ania Apicionek, Patrick Braun 7. Lourdes Rodriguez 8. Corey and Wheela Sundstrom

15 9. Dan and Jackie Haggerty 10. Jack and Debbie Holford 11. Jeff Wrinkle, Chad and Amy Everett 12. Mark and Cindy Dunn 13. Doug and Leslie Girard 14. Melissa and Ryan Colosi 15. James Roberts and Sandra Raymore

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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society sightings Grand Reopening

A

nne Neilson celebration of the Grand Reopening of the Gallery at the New location at The Shops at Morrison.

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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com

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1. Anne Neilson Home 2. Gallery Reopening 3. Gallery 4. Anne Neilson 5. Azusa Kondo, Yasuyo Tsurutani 6. Bert Newsome, Lynn Robertson, Tim and Karen Verhagen 7. Courtney and Daniel Peterson 8. Cameron Jones, Karen Kettler, Susan Allbert

9. Carol and Gentry Caudill 10. Cheryl Luckett, Marisa Wilson, Sandy Scott 11. Elaina Hackney, Kammy Jagoe 12. Dollie Dudley, Don and Jill Olmstead, Addison Ayer 13. John and Christina Nail 14. Stephanie Brown, Robin Riley, Leigh Rainwater 15. Sandy Scott, Christina Melissaris 16. Mark Joyce, Anne Neilson, James Britt www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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style

Decadence

Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography Make up by Natalie Gladden | Hair by Beth Gunter Location : Chateau Lyon, home of Scott Morris of Morris Costume | Clothes: Neiman Marcus Southpark Charlotte Rolls Royce from Metrolina Auto Group Models: Savannah Jansen, Lara koonts, Emily Crago from Directions USA Model & Artist Management and Madlen Ivanova www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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Model Emily Cargo | Make up by Natalie Gladden | Hair by Beth Gunter Dress Jenni Funes | Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography

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Models Savannah Jansen and Madlen Ivanova.

Make up by Natalie Gladden

| Hair by Beth Gunter

Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography | Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark, Jumpsuit Dillard’s Southpark

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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Models Savannah Jansen, Lara koonts, Emily Crago Make up by Natalie Gladden

| Hair by Beth Gunter

Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography | Dresses Neiman Marcus Southpark, Jumpsuit Dillard’s Southpark

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Model Lara Koonts | Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter | Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark | Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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Model Madlen Ivanova | Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter | Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography Rolls Royce from Metrolina Auto Group

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Model Madlen Ivanova Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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Model Emily Cargo | Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter | Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography

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Model Emily Cargo Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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Model Savannah Jansen | Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter | Dress Dillards Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography Rolls Royce from Metrolina Auto Group

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Model Emily Cargo Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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Model Emily Cargo Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography Rolls Royce from Metrolina Auto Group

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

Model Emily Cargo Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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the styled social

SPRING BRUNCH PLANNING GUIDE

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the recipies BACON, MUSHROOM & SPINACH QUICHE Kitchen Equipment: baking sheet, frying pan

Servings: 6-8 *If you want to ensure you have more than one piece per person, we recommend making two quiches* Ingredients: *for one quiche* 1 cup 18% cream 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese 5 slices of bacon, chopped & cooked 1 cup spinach 3 white mushrooms, sliced thin Olive oil

*If you cannot find gruyere, substitute with swiss cheese*

1x baked pie shell

3/4 tsp salt Dash of pepper Dash of nutmeg

3 eggs

Instructions: Bake your pie shell according to the package instructions and set aside.

Chop the bacon, then cook in a pan on medium heat until crispy.

Next, saute the mushrooms in 1 tsp of olive oil until cooked. Lastly, add about a tablespoon of water to a pan, warm to medium heat and wilt the spinach.

Pre-heat oven to 375F. Layer half of the cheese on the bottom of the baked pie-shell. Then layer bacon, mushrooms & spinach. Then, layer with the remaining cheese.

Whisk together the eggs, cream, salt, pepper & nutmeg. Place the pie shell(s) on a baking sheet. Then, pour the egg mixture into the pie shell and bake 35-40 minutes until the top is golden and center is firm. Remove from the oven and let sit 5-10 minutes to set.

STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD

Kitchen Equipment: large salad bowl, salad serving utensils, small pan Servings: 6-8 Ingredients:

1/2 cup pecans halves

Salad

1 tbsp brown sugar

8 cups of spinach

1 tbsp butter

1 cup of strawberries, sliced

Dressing

1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp white balsamic vinegar *If you cannot find this, you can use regular balsamic vinegar*

1 tbsp honey Salt & Pepper to taste Instructions: Measure out 8 cups of spinach and set aside. Slice 1 cup of strawberries and crumble the goat cheese. In a small pan, melt the butter with the brown sugar on medium heat. As soon as it’s melted, toss the pecans in and mix until coated. Remove from the heat and let cool.

To make the dressing, combine all of the ingredients in a mason jar or container with a tight fitting lid.

Shake liberally until combined.

To create the salad, place the spinach in the salad bowl with the strawberries, toss with the dressing & then top with the goat cheese and pecans.

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

CHOCOLATE-HAZELNUT BITES

Kitchen equipment: large baking sheet, parchment paper, rolling pin Servings: 24 Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter, melted

1 box of puff pastry

sugar

1 cup of chocolate hazelnut spread Instructions: **Defrost the puff pastry in the fridge overnight if frozen**

Pre-heat oven to 350F. Place a sheet of parchment paper on the baking sheet.

Once puff pastry is defrosted enough to use, remove from the package. Usually the puff pastry will come in a square shape and there will be 2 squares per box. Roll out each square into a 10”x12” sheet and then cut into 12 squares. Spoon about 1 tsp of chocolate hazelnut spread onto the center of each square. Fold the square over and pinch around the edges to seal (you can also use a fork to seal the edges).

Place the sealed bites onto the parchment on the baking sheet. Brush each of the tops with melted butter & sprinkle with sugar.

Bake for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

INSIDE-OUT MIMOSAS Kitchen equipment: 2 ice cube trays Servings: 2 drinks per person Ingredients:

1x container Pink Lemonade

1x container Orange Juice

2x bottles of Prosecco

Instructions: Make the ice cubes using each of the juices - make one ice cube tray with the orange juice and one with the pinklemonade. Freeze until its brunch-time.

When ready for a drink, place 1-2 ice cubes into a glass and top with prosecco.

the shopping list BACON, MUSHROOM & SPINACH QUICHE ❏ 1x package of bacon ❏ 3 mushrooms (white) ❏ 1x gruyere cheese ❏ 1x frozen pie shell ❏ 3 eggs ❏ 250ml 18% cream *If you’re going to make 2 quiches, double the amount of ingredients you purchase*

STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD ❏ 1x large container spinach ❏ 1x container of strawberries ❏ 113g goat cheese ❏ 1x small package pecans halves ❏ 1x small bottle white balsamic vinegar *If you cannot find this, you can use regular balsamic vinegar*

CHOCOLATE-HAZELNUT BITES ❏ 1x box of puff pastry ❏ 1x container chocolate hazelnut spread ❏ 1x package of buttee INSIDE-OUT MIMOSA’S ❏ 1x container Orange Juice ❏ 1x container Pink Lemonade ❏ 2 bottles of Prosecco EXTRAS ❏ Parchment paper ❏ Olive oil ❏ Candy for decor ❏ Summer berries ❏ Bacon or sausages ❏ Baguette bread

PANTRY

❏ Salt ❏ Pepper ❏ Brown Sugar ❏ Butter ❏ Honey ❏ Nutmeg ❏ Sugar DECOR

❏ Floral in your choice of colour (1 bouquet that you can split into two vases)

❏ Make your table pop with summer colours add a couple of bowls of fun-coloured candy to the table along with fresh summer berries.

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the party plan ONE MONTH

THREE DAYS

❏ Decide on a guest list ❏ Create and print invitations

DAY BEFORE

THREE WEEKS

❏ Send out invitations

ask that guests RSVP 1 week prior to the brunch

TWO WEEKS

❏ Purchase flowers ❏ Decorate ❏ Set the table, including place cards ❏ Prep any dishes or ingredients that you can (i.e. measuring or chopping ingredients for items that need to be cooked the day of)

terms of decor & other supplies

DAY OF

(i.e. cutlery, cups, plates, utensils, table cloth, napkins)

❏ Pick-up or print any decor items you need

❏ Take a look at what you have at home to use in

❏ Go grocery shopping

(except for floral) & any other non-perishable supplies

❏ Do a quick walk through to tidy any areas that need touch-ups

❏ Prep in the kitchen, set out everything you need including glasses & chill drinks

ONE WEEK

❏ Tidy up & move furniture Remove items that won’t be used.

❏ Make your shopping list ❏ Make a cooking schedule

the playlist

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‘I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honeybunch)’ - The Four Tops

‘Hard Work’ - Ella Henderson

‘A Sunday Kind of Love’ - Etta James

‘(Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay’ - Otis Redding

‘Sugar Sugar’ - The Archies

‘Warwick Avenue’ - Duffy

‘Jolene’ - Ray LaMontagne

‘Coming Home’ - Leon Bridges

‘(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman - Aretha Franklin

‘Turn Me On’ - Norah Jones

‘Orange Sky’ - Alexi Murdoch

‘Ain’t Too Proud to Beg’ - The Temptations

‘Back to Black’ - Amy Winehouse

‘Right To Be Wrong’ - Joss Stone

‘You’re All I Need to Get By’ - Marvin Gaye

‘I Won’t Let You Go’ - James Morrison

‘One and Only’ - Adele

‘Pretty Woman’ - Roy Orbison

‘Writing’s On the Wall’ - Sam Smith

‘Easy’ - Lionel Richie & The Commodores

March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

the kitchen prep list DAY BEFORE

2 HOURS BEFORE

❏

❏

Prep the salad ingredients - wash & cut the strawberries, store in the fridge in a sealed container. Toast the pecans & store in a container. Crumble the goat cheese & store in the fridge in a sealed container.

❏

cover until just before brunch.

1 HOURS BEFORE

❏

it doesn’t dry out. Place on the table with a dish of

trays, fill one tray with the orange juice & one tray

butter.

your brunch.

45 MINUTES BEFORE

Prep your quiche ingredients following the recipe

❏ Take the quiche ingredients out of the fridge.

to cook the bacon,mushrooms & spinach. Let these ingredients cool & store in the fridge. Shred the cheese for your quiche. Bake the pie shell ac cording to the package directions, let cool & then wrap

30 MINUTES BEFORE

❏

with saran wrap & foil to store until the next day.

❏

Slice the baguette & cover with a towel or napkin so

Prepare your mimosa ice cubes. Using two ice cube with the pink lemonade - place in the freezer until

❏

Cook any extra sides (bacon or sausage) and then

Prep the quiche according to the recipe directions.

Pre-heat the oven for the quiche & when the oven is ready put the quiche in the oven.

Put the box of puff pastry in the fridge to defrost overnight

15 MINUTES BEFORE

NIGHT BEFORE

❏

❏

JUST BEFORE YOUR PARTY TIME

Make your chocolate hazelnut bites & set aside until brunch time.

4 HOURS BEFORE

❏

Set out all of your serving plates and bowls, napkins and utensils exactly how you want in the space you’re having the party.

❏

Make the dressing for your salad and set aside.

Start your playlist & put on repeat. Set the nutella bites out on the table.

GUESTS ARRIVE

❏

When the quiche is ready (top is golden and center firm), let sit for 5-10 minutes. Leave the oven on

3 HOURS BEFORE

❏

Set out the glasses for your mimosa’s and prosecco.

and place your bacon or sausage back in the oven to warm-up for 5-10 minutes.

As quiche is setting, shake the dressing again then toss with the salad &

place on the table.

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17 Trends That Will Rule Fashion

For Spring / Summer 2017

L

by Colleen Richmond ucky for everyone it’s almost spring! The winter doldrums are behind us with all those big puffy down coats, hair killing hats, and cashmere scarves. Okay, we don’t mind the soft scarves so much, but everything else is kind of a pain to deal with. Spring and summer bring to mind anything that’s light and

pretty. Lightweight materials, bright colors, and strappy maxi dresses are just a few of the ideas we can look forward to, after a winter full of wool and black. The warmer seasons bring on a feeling of renewal and a lively outlook on getting outside to enjoy all that great weather. If you are looking forward to the next two seasons, then you’ll want to check out the 17 trends that will rule fashion for spring and summer 2017. www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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17

Mini Bags

Get rid of those giant winter tote bags that you needed to carry all those pesky winter items.

Commit to a darling mini bag. A favorite so far is Chloe’s new “Nile Minaudiere Handbag.”

16 15 14

Bodysuits A popular 90’s trend that

is back. Wear these cozy bodysuits with practically anything you own from skinny jeans to pencil skirts.

Bright Colors

Rainbow hues

are big this year in everything from bomber jackets which are great for spring’s fluctuating temperatures, and even bright sneakers.

Shirt Dresses This is a new style that can be worn in a variety of ways. The shirt dress has fun cutout sleeves, are sometimes asymmetrical, and look great for office settings.

13

80’s Chic

You can thank designer

Marc Jacobs for bringing the 80’s back in a big way. From totes to sweatshirts that pay hom-

age to the decade that brought us MTV, you can

Sheer Tops You might not be dar-

12

pick and choose the 80’s trend that will fit your

ing enough to try this look, as it has been recently seen on such models like Kendall Jenner, and Bella Hadid. Sheer tops are in for spring. Pair it with a jacket if you aren’t brave enough to bare the total transparent look.

lifestyle today. This backpack is 80’s to the max!

11 10

Platforms

Do platform shoes ever

really go out of style? They make you so much taller, but aren’t uncomfortable like heels can sometimes be.

Prints

This is an easy trend to incor-

porate into your wardrobe. Prints are in, so wherever you want them, you’ll be in style with this trend from floral to paisley and everything in between.

9

Rose Gold

summer 2017 is definitely this pinky warm hue. From jewelry to clothing, you can rock rose gold if you want to look on trend this season.

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

The color of spring and

4 3

Stripes This is the perfect trend for

summer. A striped boat tee is a classic piece that you’ll be able to wear season after season.

Logos

Don’t be shy about rocking your

favorite brand’s logo or slogan this summer season. They are everywhere, from handbags to cool t-shirts.

Lounge Robes

2 1 8 7

Lace

You have to be

selective about where you utilize this trend.

The office might not be the place for the new lounge robe look. Otherwise take this look from the club to the beach, if you dare.

Off the Shoulder Tops

A throwback as well from the 80’s, off the shoulder looks are in. This is a great feature to highlight, since shoulders can be subtly sexy.

On the runway you could easily see

this trend, from Oscar de La Renta to the racks of Target, lace is a big deal this season.

Athleisure Wear Everywhere So here’s the deal on the new athleisure wear...it’s in! That means

comfort is king, so athleisure companies like Lululemon, Calia by Carrie Underwood, and Ivy Park by none other than Beyonce are going to be your go-to pieces in 2017.

6 5

Bra Tops Another trend that not ev-

eryone is going to feel comfortable wearing are bra tops. It’s actually a cross between a bra and a crop top. That’s all there is to say about that!

Ruffled Skirts

A trend that can

look too cutesy if you aren’t careful. Try to keep the ruffled detailing to one place only, so a skirt can be a great way to wear this trend. www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

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Ireland

by Allie Withers

A

sk someone what first comes to mind when you say the word “Ireland” and nine times out of ten the answers will be St. Patrick’s Day, Leprechauns, and Guinness. Just a couple of days in the magnificent country could transform these stereotypical answers to more bonafide ones like culturally inspiring, magnificently beautiful and well….the home of Guinness. Interested in seeing for yourself?

Let Charlotte Girl take you on a journey through the best of what the country has to offer. www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

59

hearing the history of the country first hand? Sandeman’s offers an exceptional (and free!) walking tour starting at the city hall. Expect to walk through the country’s most famous kings, their division from Northern Ireland, and even learn about St. Patrick himself. You’ll finish at Ireland’s famous Trinity College where locals all suggest to visit the incredible library that lives within it’s walls.

Through one Sandmean’s tour guide, a born and bred Dublin local, I received some of the best restaurant recommendations in the city. If you are looking for traditional Irish food in a more relaxed yet swanky environment head to Gallagher’s Boxty House across from Temple Bar. Whether you choose to indulge in their traditional boxty (an Irish potato pancake) dish or their Irish Stew trio, you’ll experience the best of what Irish food has to offer. Right next door is Elephant and Castle, another local favorite. Though not as traditional, Elephant & Castle Dublin Doors via @kristinfreeman

First thing’s first, Irish culture is one of a kind. From the historic Temple Bar area in Dublin all the way to Belfast, the home of the beloved Titanic, you’ll be amazed by the details of the country both large and small. Don’t run so fast from activity to activity and miss these details. Enjoy your wobbly walk on the preserved cobblestone streets and admire the colorful doors of the locals. One of the best parts of the country is that there is truly nothing like it in the United States. Interested in

Photo via Allie Withers

60

Leo Burdock Traditional Fish & Chips via @monpetitmondemtl

March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

is consistently packed so expect to make a reservation if you have any interest in trying it out. Finally, it wouldn’t be a trip to Ireland without an order of Fish & Chips. Look-

ing for the best in the capitol? Find

to three different types of bar scenes.

it at Leo Burdock’s. Offering only

While some will enjoy a more local,

take-out, this small joint has been

hole in the wall space like Stag’s Head

frying up the best fresh fish & chips

off a side street in Dublin, others will

since 1913. Not convinced? The small

want to throw themselves into the

restaurant displays it’s most famous

madness that becomes Temple Bar

visitors including everyone from

Clare Heritage Sites, photo via Brian Dinan

Queen Elizabeth to “Justin Timberlake’s Parents.”

after hours. If you want a truly sce-

nic yet touristy glass of Guinness, don’t miss out on their

It has often been said (and rightfully so) that “many peo-

Storehouse’s rooftop bar at the famous Guinness Store-

ple die of thirst, but the Irish are born with one.” When

house - a short 10 minute walk outside of Dublin. This sev-

vacationing in Ireland, expect to be surrounded by the

en floor exhibition that walks you through the history of

Guinness and Whiskey that are so vital to the identity of

Ireland’s most famous beer is worth every penny. I cannot

the country. Instead of scoffing the liquor association, em-

recommend it enough.

brace it and find the appreciation for Ireland’s expertise in

Do not visit Ireland without making the trip to the Cliffs

distillery. When in Dublin, you’ll find yourself venturing

of Moher. These magnificent beasts of land that jar into www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

61

the emptiness of the ocean are absolutely breathtaking.

museum

is

so

Picture yourself swerving up the Irish countryside greeted

popular that res-

by thousands of farm animals and just about nothing else.

ervations must be

Once you arrive at the end of your journey, you are greeted

booked days, if not

by a mini museum that walks you through the transfor-

weeks, in advance.

mation and history and science of these gigantic ledges.

Kilmainham

Goal

When you finally have the opportunity to walk up the steep

represents

“the

path to the trails alongside the cliffs, it feels as though they

making and break-

have been waiting for you to “ohh” and “aww” at them

ing of the Union be-

since their creation. Your first time to stop and soak up the

tween Great Britain

beauty of mother nature’s creation is breathtaking. Take

and Ireland” and

your pictures but leave time to stow the camera away, find

continuously ranks as one of the most educational and en-

a nice rock to perch up on, and enjoy the once in a lifetime

joyed tourist attractions in Ireland year after year. Locals

scenery.

recommend it even more than (gasp) the Guinness Store-

Photo via Allie Withers

house experience.

The second miss that will have you wishing to return to Ireland is the famous Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic attraction. With nine interactive galleries, you’ll learn about everything from industry that led to the innoPhoto via @viaggiandocontrovento

Photo via @titanicbelfast

Since Ireland has so much to offer, it will be hard to check off every box on your list. Looking back on my vacation there, there are two experiences that stand out. The first is Kilmainham Gaol Prison located right outside of Dublin. A prison? Yes, a prison. This ex-jail turned

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

Clare Abbey, photo via Brian Dinan

vation of the ship to traveling the

forward thinking Nike sneakers.

ocean on the Titanic itself. Sunday

Layering is key. Whether you’re

afternoons the museum offers a

meandering around Trinity Col-

tea exactly like those experienced

lege or getting your adventure on

on the ship back in 1912.

at the Cliffs, pile on the layers.

No trip to Europe would be com-

Throw a denim button down over

plete without fashion innovation.

a plain tshirt and pair with a scarf

While in Dublin, spend time on

and a trench for Grafton Street.

Ireland’s world famous Grafton

Change that trench out for a puff-

Street. These shops offer new style

er and be on your way to an Irish

in beautiful, historic buildings. Af-

hike. Finally, always be prepared

terwards, spend some time in Dub-

for rain. It could look like the

lin’s Dubarry Store. Since 1937,

sunniest day but a quick shower

this artisan store has been home

is almost sure to pass. Go for a

to some of the world’s finest leath-

transitional raincoat like this one

er boots. Now that the brand has

by Mycra Pac that rolls up nicely

grown an international presence, their assortment has grown to be

Mycra Pac Designer Wear Donatella Reversible Dot Packable Travel Coat

instantly recognizable both in Ireland and across Europe.

for traveling.

Now that you know what to

pack, what to do, and where to eat you really have no ex-

When packing for your Irish vacation, keep comfort at

cuse not to escape on a unique Ireland vacation. Let us be

front of mind. The most admirable part of Irish fashion is

that deciding factor when choosing your next destination.

the local’s ability to make fashion forward look effortlessly chic. Think: pairing your favorite black skinnies with some

Ireland, here we Charlotte Girls come! www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

63

ALL THAT

Jazz

Bringing Charlotte Back into the Jazz Spectrum

by Scott Homewood

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

65

a busker on a Friday or Saturday night, playing for tips, playing furiously until the cops come around and tell them to move along for the night.

But, dammit, I heard a saxophone, backed by a band!

It sounded full-bodied and funky, jazzy even. But not the kind of oily, processed pseudo-jazz that smooth R&B artists like Najee and Kenny G “play”, but actual jazz. Not the atonal squonk of a Coltrane, but the kind that uses a great song as a jumping off point before playing some hot solo while the band comps behind, like a Sonny Rollins or a Cannonball Adderly. Either way, it was exciting. So, of course I went in search of the sound, hoping it wasn’t just a private party.

Luckily, it wasn’t. The sound happened to be emanating from inside a new Charlotte nightspot called The Imperial.

I

photo courtesy of Capture Me Candid Photography

magine my shock as I walked down 7th street on a Thursday night in mid-January in uptown Charlotte, only to hear the smoky, deeply melodic sound of a

well-played saxophone suddenly wafting around me like the gentle caress of a soft evening wind, rising gloriously over the cacophony of honking cars and people yelling.

I almost had to look around to remember if I was in Charlotte! So, let’s get this straight. A saxophone playing in uptown Charlotte, our fair city chock full of bankers and corporate types?

Absurd! Preposterous! At least that is the belief held by many. The city most people regard as somewhat soulless and heartless, even downright mean to original musicians and artists striving to get their careers going would never encourage someone playing the saxophone, except maybe

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

photo courtesy of Capture Me Candid Photography

Located near the corner of 300 North College Street, right behind the new Italian restaurant Tavolo, The Imperial seems to take its’ cues from the classic martinis bars and speakeasys of New York City circa 30s-50s but without giving out too much of a retro vibe, instead just promoting a big city upscale feel where fun can be had and the best bourbons, mixed drinks, and martinis can be found.

And jazz. Let’s not forget the jazz. From a look at the schedule of events, it seems the club is dedicated to jazz, booking local jazz performers to play from Thursday to Saturdays nights in various permutations, from solo to trios. The stage is fairly small so large bands probably

wouldn’t fit, but the sound is still powerful enough to fill

his wing and connected me with a lot of musicians and op-

the room. Just from the music alone, this is about to be-

portunities.”

come one of my favorite clubs.

Daley adapted quickly to the musical scene in Charlotte

Upon entering the main bar area, one couldn’t help see-

and quickly began gigging with Chronic, one of the re-

ing saxophonist Steven Daley, the source of the wonderful

gion’s most well-known funk bands and played with them

jazz sounds I had heard that were so foreign to my usu-

for over 5 years before branching out to take advantage of

al experience on Charlotte’s streets, on stage in the back

some other musical opportunities in 2003 which included

corner of the club plying his instrumental trade while a

sitting in with a lot of variety bands and honing his chops.

background tape supplied the rest of his “band”. While he

Not only is Daley a saxophonist par excellence, but his tal-

occasionally played a jazz standard, for the most part he

ents extend to other instruments as well.

played some classic and modern R&B hits and after stat-

“I believe music is in the blood,” Daley states. “For exam-

ing the melody, went off on solos, taking the songs in un-

ple, my grandfather was a big-band leader in the Northeast

charted territory before returning to the melody. This was

in the ‘40’s. My father is an accomplished saxophonist and

done more in a classic 60s groove jazz fashion instead of

now my son is starting to pick it up also. As far as myself, I

the more modern slick soft jazz played today and fit the

started on piano in elementary school, switched to clarinet

vibe of The Imperial, which could easily be a jazz club if

in 5th grade, then to saxophone in middle school. Along

it were a little larger. The club does have a second rooftop

the way I picked up flute, auxiliary percussion, backing

level that should be open in the Spring, but for right now,

vocals, harmonica and some other things. Cannonball Ad-

has only one area

derly died the day I was born so I have always felt a con-

It didn’t take a long listen to realize Daley is quite ac-

nection to him. I’ve listened to a lot of live recordings of

complished musically. The tone and fluidity on his instrument and his ability to take a melody and extrapolate on it showed a musician with chops to spare.

But surely Daley had not just appeared in Charlotte overnight, sax in hand, ready to bring Charlotte into the jazz spectrum. In fact, it turns out Daley has been here since the 90’s performing in popular funk and R&B bands on a consistent basis. “ I was lucky,” Daley said, “I was going in college in Athens, Ohio when my parents moved here and I was able to spend some summer breaks here and really fell in love with Charlotte. I sent out job applications to places in Akron and Charlotte, and got a great offer down here really quickly. Just about when I moved down, I started going to a jazz jam run by Bill Hanna and met a saxophone player here named Ziad Rabie who is the saxophone godfather here in Charlotte and he took me under

photo courtesy of Capture Me Candid Photography

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

67

Adderly and Dexter Gordon because I believe live perfor-

ten as I can. Right now being away from home on week-

mance is what makes jazz special. Besides a CD I did with

ends is tough because I also help officiate my sons basket-

Chronic years ago, I have not recorded much and have not

ball games, and I hate not being able to watch him play.”

done a CD of my own.

Such is the life of the modern jazzman. Especially in

Currently, besides playing at The Imperial every Thurs-

Charlotte, a city that seems to rely on the Top 40 DJ scene

day night solo or with a small band backing him, his main

more than fostering a live music environment. With lim-

musical gig is using his skills at the various instruments

ited places to play, artists like Daley must find other ave-

he’s learned by handling multiple roles such as saxophone,

nues to keep playing.

keyboards,

multiple

“Unfortunately,

background vocals, and

Daley starts, “I think

extra percussion in a

the jazz scene has de-

highly regarded Billy

volved a lot since I

Joel tribute band named

first got here, but it is

The Stranger that keeps

making a resurgence

him busy on most week-

due to different fac-

ends as the band travels

tors, thankfully. It

to different parts of the

seems people want

country quite often. The

a more upscale, re-

gig is one that fulfills

laxed lounge expe-

all of Daleys musical interests, including his saxophones, he plays up to twelve different

photo courtesy of Capture Me Candid Photography

rience

sometimes,

but it’s taken awhile.

photo courtesy of Capture Me Candid Photography

There

were

fewer

and fewer jazz clubs

instruments in any given performance.

in the early 2000s, then by the time

But the stress of traveling sometimes

the economy crashed in 2008, they

affects Daley as well.

all went away. Jazz wasn’t the only

“It’s tough to keep everything going,”

genre affected by the collapse as all

Daley said. “but I do my best. Balanc-

of the clubs that used to have budgets

ing the music and everything else I do

for real bands stopped making mon-

along with finding time for my family is

ey, and with the prices clubs were

my most important task. I’m often do-

paying, all you could get for a long

ing two things at the same time, practic-

time was an acoustic duo or some-

ing vocals in the car while I drive, that

thing. It’s great to see clubs like The

kind of thing. I’ve always found the sax-

Imperial popping up now to give this

ophone to be easy for me, it’s keyboards

music a new home in a sophisticated

and vocals that I have to practice as of-

setting.”

Although on the surface Charlotte might be seen as a sometimes unwelcoming, unappreciative city to sounds differing from the mainstream, there are definitely changes on the horizon – for the bar scene, the music scene,

and all that jazz.

For more information about Steven and his tour schedule visit www.stevendaley.com.

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

1212 Pecan Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205 (704) 333-9197 • www.therabbitspot.com/peculiar-rabbit/

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

69

OFF TO THE RACES

Your Perfect

Derby Hat

by Allie Withers

M

eriweather Lewis Clark Jr knew ex-

Whether you are planning on attending the 143rd Ken-

actly what he was doing during the

tucky Derby or this year’s local Queens Cup, you’ll want to

first Kentucky Derby in 1875 when

start shopping now for the perfect statement piece. With

he invited the ladies of Louisville to

the growth of the derby hat has come an expansion in it’s

come picnic with friends during the

different forms. While you might have heard of your every-

now iconic event. Instead of associating horse racing with

day sun hat or fascinator - let Charlotte Girl Magazine help

the stereotypical gambling and drinking it had grown into,

educate on your other options this race season.

Clark and his wife wanted to make a statement combining sporting with fashion. Since then, the required “full morning dress” has evolved but one thing has remained - the iconic statement hat.

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

k

Olive & CoralHat

Audrey Wide Brim Hat

Picture Hat

Large Straw Wide Brim Hat

So which comes first - the dress or the hat?

Floppy Straw Hat

Floppy Hats

The Picture Hat has become such a statement to derby’s

These hats speak for themselves. The most simplified

across the nation it is now more commonly known as the

yet sure-fire silhouettes can be found in the form of flop.

“Kentucky Derby Hat.” As you might suspect, the Picture

Choose a floppy hat for a more intricate Derby dress. The

Hat secured it’s name for the simple reason that women who

best part about these pieces are that they can be worn

wore these statement pieces did so to stand out in the pic-

again this summer on your weekend beach getaways.

tures that would inevitably be snapped throughout race day.

Panama Straw Boater Hat

Audrey Teccia Pagilia Boater Hat

Boater Hat

Church Races Fascinator

Hot Pink, Turquoise, and Teal Fascinator

Fascinators

If you’re looking for a more Americana look, consider a

Though not technically a hat silhouette, fascinators have

Boater Hat. This flat brimmed style with a simple ribbon de-

become one in the same when it comes to race day fashion.

tail will keep you looking as chic and timeless as the race itself.

This statement piece is typically adorned with feathers and pins alike that are sure to make a statement.

Greatlookz Classic Betty Sinamay

Lucky for you the answer is your own. Keep your eyes

Derby Cloche

out for both this spring and whichever comes along first will be your starting point. If you choose a statement hat,

Belfry Mackey Seercuker Cloche

Cloche

Sassy and fabulous, a Cloche style topper adds a Downton Abbey spin to traditional Derby hats. Over the past couple of years, the cloche has been making a comeback to the racetracks.

keep your dress simple and vice versa. Seeking a more “tres chic” look? Choose a classic hat and dress silhouette to pair with one another. With whatever hat you choose, keep in mind hair styling. For those with longer hair, a low side swept ponytail might be your best option. Working with a bob? Consider a fascinator or headpiece. The best part about the upcoming races is the opportunity to give a trend you might not otherwise consider a try. For now, it’s off to the races! www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

71

Anne Neilson Fine Art Gallery And their New Location

by Elizabeth Sheehy

72

March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

Charlotte, I would say is a unique market in that its traditional South.

Yet, it's really a young city that's coming into its own.” said Sandi Scott, the gallery manager.

C

harlotte is a city with many faces. From an-

But the mix of traditional and contemporary pieces are

tebellum plantations to trendy rooftop bars,

not the only thing that makes Anne Neilson Fine Arts a

the Queen City boasts a diverse and vibrant

special part of Charlotte’s art scene. The owner, Anne Neil-

culture. Stepping into Anne Neilson Fine Arts

son exhibits a passion for not only the arts but also the

brand new Gallery at The Shops at Morrison in

community. “She is an artist herself,” Sandi explains when

the SouthPark area of Charlotte, one can immediately feel

asked about the gallery’s namesake. “Which is unique.

that this gallery captures the unique mix of old and new

There's really no other gallery in Charlotte for which the

that makes Charlotte so one-of-a-kind. The contemporary

owner is also an artist. She really understands what it

country music playing in the background adds a sense of

means to be an artist and to be represented by a gallery.”

southern charm to the sleek white gallery walls. The new-

“It's a unique situation for which she had a heart and a

est exhibition for the gallery’s grand reopening celebrates

vision to be able to give back through art,” Sandi contin-

the modern side

ues. “That's what

of Charlotte’s art

she has been and is

scene.

doing through her

“This

particular

own personal art.

showcases

Then, through her

a few of our new-

success she want-

er artists and also

ed to share this on

some of our exist-

a larger scale. She

ing artists and their

opened up the gal-

work. It definitely

lery for which again

has more of a con-

we now represent

temporary abstract

over 40 different

feel to it,”

artists worldwide.

show

Scott,

Sandi

explains.

That's

what

we

“Well, that's not all

do. We give back

that we represent,

through art, with

but that's what we

every

purchase

chose to do initially. I think part of it is the wow factor. It's

made at Anne Neilson Fine Art, a portion of the sales will

all the more bolder, exciting and fun. We are certainly still

go to the different charity partners here in the Charlotte

in those exciting phases of reopening a new gallery space.

community and beyond as well.”

I think it coincides with that very well.”

Anne Neilson Fine Arts will be celebrating its third an-

This city is also rich with history and home to a market

niversary as a gallery this coming May. “That's exciting,”

that leans towards a more traditional look. “There's that

Sandi explains about the upcoming milestone. “We will

unique mix of new and old for those people who are up-

have some exciting art on the walls for this that will give

dating older homes to be more modern,” Sandi goes on to

you an example of the variety of artists that we offer. A

say. “They need art to reflect that as well. We are finding

Celebration.”

that some more transitional art if you will, to go in these transitional homes are really what's trending now for our

Charlotte is just a little more special to have such a treasure here.

clients.” www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

73

CHATEAU

by Elizabeth Sheehy

W

Lyon

hile it may not boast a Hall of Mirrors,

Although built in 2010 over the course of five years, this

the Chateau Lyon is just about the clos-

home lacks the stale feeling of a suburban imitation of a

est thing you would find to a Lake Nor-

European estate. This is due, in part, to the many elements

man Versailles. From the brass floor-

of the Chateau Lyon that were imported directly from cen-

to-ceiling windows of the formal dining

turies old buildings. While giving me a tour of the palatial

room to the 18th century wall paintings imported from a

home, current owner, Scott Morris, shows me the paneled

villa in France, stepping into the Chateau Lyon is like step-

wall of the dining room, located off the main entrance hall.

ping back into the time of Marie Antoinette.

“This entire wall is imported from France and the paint-

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

No palace would be complete without its hidden passageways. In addition to the luxurious details found in the main areas of the home, the Chateau Lyon contains a few secrets in its more private spaces. In the upstairs library, a surprisingly airy and light filled room that compliments the open feel of the rest of the house, a bookcase is pulled out to reveal a hidden room. “There's a bathroom behind this wall, here.” Scott says as he opens the hidden door.

“The whole wall comes out and it even has a view of the lake.”

Another hidden treasure can be found in a room playfully referred to as the “outhouse”. As you open the door to an outdoor powder room, you come face to face with a beautiful floor-to-ceiling stained glass window. Even in the most unlikely places, guests of the Morris family feel like they are staying in a palace.

Another historical feature, the men’s smoking room, can be found on the second floor. Now a bedroom, this 18th century version of a

“man-cave”

has

many details that add authenticity to

ed pictures are from the late 1800s.”

a feature built less

He explains. Taken from a now demol-

than ten years ago.

ished estate in the Loire Valley, the hand

“it had a setup as

painted wall decorations depict pastoral

a men's room or a

scenes of formal gardens and outdoor

smoking's

follies. Even the gold details found on

playing

the ceiling are made from 22 karat gold

room with morning sunshine. These too have a historical counter part. “They are a replica from I think the hotel Le Meurice.” Scott explains. The glass is specially made to appear slightly warped, like the window-panes of a chateau built during the Ancien Régime. It is details like this that give the home a sense of rare historical authenticity for a construction built in the 21st century.

When Scott Morris purchased the Chateau Lyon in 2012, not only had the price dropped from $25 million to $4 million, but he found that the home was already move in ready. “The only other thing that was not there was the microwave and the washer and dryer.” Scott explains. “But even things like the vases, they were all here. Quite a bit of the home was already furnished.”

cards

or

whatever.” Scott tells

leaf. To the left of the wall paintings the brass plated full windows light up the

room,

me. He then gestures to the ceiling, pointing to where the beams change half way through the room. “The thing is that in France a lot of the rooms, they were small, so when they changed the ceiling from one room to another, that designates one room to another.”

There may be no ghostly queens to be found at the Chateau Lyon, but the sense of history can be found in every room of the 21st century construction. The airy, open feel of the home gives visitors the sense of walking through a European villa while the details such as the brass windows and centuries old wall paintings give the residence a distinctly French feel. As the owner of the Chateau Lyon, Scott Morris certainly earns the title of Lake Norman’s own “seigneur du manoir”. www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

75

Mark Bellissimo Brings

2018 WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES to Tryon

by Kendra Wingate

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

M

ark J. Bellissimo, a man on a mis-

Stadium Jumping Inc.’s lease of the show grounds, which

sion, has set forth revolutioniz-

was projected to expire in 2008, was possibly in default.

ing equestrian properties creating

Having significant experience with corporate restructur-

many of which are known to be

ing and business turnarounds, Bellissimo along with Gene

among the best in the world. Bel-

Mische, Creator of WEF, worked to put a plan in place and

lissimo, a Developer who has called

a call to action.

Wellington Florida home since 2004 has been associat-

“I’ve been involved in a diverse set of industries includ-

ed, according to public records, with sixty five companies

ing airlines, manufacturers, software and service compa-

formed over the past thirty six years and undoubtedly sees

nies. The common theme in failing companies is the lack

no end in sight.

of focus and discipline in understanding the relationship

“Our goal,” explained Bellissimo, “ is to provide the best

between evolving market conditions, customer value prop-

equestrian show experience in the industry from the per-

ositions and business cost structures/capital investments.

spective of the quality of the competition, the facility (with

I believe this to be true also in the horse show business.”

a focus on footing) and the general lifestyle experience.”

Wellington Equestrian Partners, LLC was formed in

Bellissimo who grew up in Boston, Massachusetts, at-

early 2006 with three principal partners Mark Bellissimo,

tended Middlebury College located in Vermont and re-

Dennis Dammerman and Roger Smith along with a “vision

ceived an MBA from Harvard Business School, believes

to transform Wellington from a town with a large horse

sharing the excitement of horse shows with the general

show to a community with a vibrant equestrian industry

public will help benefit the industry.

that would include world class show grounds, enhanced lifestyle options and a family friendly offering which would be integrated into the community.” Eventually, the partnership expanded to include a diverse group of twenty families with one important commonality – their love of horses and a passion for Wellington and the equestrian lifestyle.

Wellington Equestrian Partners (WEP) encompasses Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) LLC which operates the annual Winter Equestrian Festival held on the 160-acre Palm Beach International Equestrian Center for twelve weeks each year (January 11 – April 2, 2017). The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) originally began to attract the equestrian community in the 1970’s originating with the Hunter/Jumper style riding and is now the largest and longest running equestrian competition in the world, Bellissimo, his

awarding in 2015 more than $8.2M in prize money. This

wife Katherine and their four children

premier equestrian destination has continued to grow be-

lived in Boston and began visiting Wellington in the year

coming not only an epicenter for the WEF show, but also

2000. As equestrian enthusiasts, it was an exceptional

for world class International Polo, the Eventing Showcase

place for Katherine and daughters Paige and Nicole to

(now in its third year) and International Dressage.

compete and was a welcomed reprieve from the harsh

“In January 2011, six-time Olympian Robert Dover,

New England winters for Mark and their sons Matt and

frustrated by the lack of a world class dressage product in

Michael. “In 2004 we moved to Wellington full time. In

Wellington approached us to see if we could work collab-

2005, we purchased one of the last horse properties in

oratively on a product for dressage. We met, identified the

Grand Prix Village.” Days later Bellissimo learned that

former polo stadium as the right venue and put togethwww.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

77

er a plan,” continued Bellissimo who noted he believes this too will be the premiere dressage destination in the world. He also announced in August 2016 of his impressive plans to expand the International Polo Club in a development application to revitalize the current venue. Bellissimo’s WEP acquired the 248-acre International Polo Club for $72 Million in May 2016.

Highlights include an equestrian stadium with seating for 6,350 (from 1,640 currently in the main stadium and 500 in the pavilion – already naming it the largest polo venue in the world), four equestrian show rings, four barns boasting 624 stalls within the 120,000 square feet (s/f), a two-story “coliseum club” featuring a 16,800 s/f banquet facility, a 6,000 s/f kitchen, 2,557 parking spaces plus 126 for golf carts and 10,800 s/f for storage. Polo and equestrian activities generate more than $200M annually in economic activity.

In November 2012 Bellissimo and Donald Trump, now the President of the United States, announced of their plans to host the first annual $100,000 Trump Invitational fundraiser to benefit the 2013 FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments® (FTI GCC). Bellissimo and his daughter Paige founded the Great Charity Challenge started in 2010. To date, it has generated nearly $11M benefiting over 200 Palm Beach County charities. This Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) rated show jumping event, held on the beautiful grounds at the Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, celebrated its inaugural event January 6, 2013. Bellissimo explained, “We are very excited about this event and the chance to have equestrian sport for the first time on Palm Beach Island. It will be a great chance to promote the sport and the athletes; all while raising money for the multi-million dollar FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge.”

Despite the skeptics, Bellissimo further expanded his equestrian enthusiasm when he created the Rolex Central Park Horse Show which marked its third year in September 2016. This highly anticipated equestrian event is held each September in the Wollman Rink (horses in an ice rink they said?) in New York City’s iconic Central Park and features five days of multi-discipline equestrian sports which include thrilling show jumping competitions, Dressage, Hunter and Arabian competitions, and a fun and educational family day. Bellissimo, always a visionary, believed this would

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

be the

perfect

way to bring an equestrian festival to Central Park, pursuing his goal of sharing the excitement of horse shows with the general public.

And! It doesn’t stop there; in July 2015 Bellissimo announced his next big vision – a Tryon (NC) International Equestrian Center. The idea originated with WEP Roger Smith who had retired to Tryon approximately ten years before. He reportedly invited Bellissimo to visit the town believing it too would make an excellent equestrian epicenter and the rest, as they say, is history (or horsetory).

Tryon, home to 1600 residents at the time, had equestrian sport roots in nearly every discipline (except polo) that date back a century ago and has been known as the birth place of modern show jumping since hosting the 1956 and 1960 Olympic trials for the US Equestrian Team (USET).

Once stagnant, Tryon is now a buzz with a population of approximately 21,000 people and one horse for every three residents. This new equestrian center complements the horse-loving culture and the rural character of the region by attracting international riders and spectators/ tourists to Tryon.

The Tryon International Equestrian Center, created by Bellissimo in Mill Spring, North Carolina is located on 1,600 acre site at the foothills of the Blue Mountains. The venue boasts 1,200 permanent stables, 12 arenas including a floodlit International arena with a potential spectator seating capacity of up to 12,000 and VIP seating for up to 1,500, a covered arena with 5,000 seats, and a world class cross country course that will be used for both Eventing and Driving competitions. The venue is surrounded by hundreds of miles of equestrian trails for Endurance, contains excellent facilities for athletes and spectators which

include restaurants, hospitality, accommodations, retail

As did Bellissimo, “We are uniquely and immediately

and resort amenities and an onsite state of the art veter-

positioned to hold all eight disciplines within a central

inary facility.

venue,” he encouraged. “Further, our integrated approach

The revered FEI World Equestrian Games™, held every

to existing on-site lodging, restaurants, permanent VIP

four years in the middle of the Olympic cycle, are one of

hospitality venues and an abundance of on-site and lo-

the biggest and most prestigious events globally held com-

cal area family friendly activities would be attractive for

bining eight World Championships at one event; Jumping,

vendors, sponsors, competitors, horse owners, and spec-

Dressage, Para-Equestrian Dressage, Eventing, Driving,

tators. In addition, there are 60,000 hotel beds within 60

Endurance, Vaulting and Reining. The FEI, Headquar-

miles of the venue. We are confident that these elements

tered in Lausanne, Switzerland, held its inaugural World

would create very successful Games and re-energize the

Equestrian Games in Stockholm, Sweden in 1990, followed

WEG product.”

by Hague, Netherlands in 1994, Rome, Italy in 1998, Jerez,

Following a thorough assessment of numerous op-

Spain in 2002, and Aachen, Germany in 2006. The only

tions, the President proposed that the Bureau allocate the

games to date, not held in Europe were held in Kentucky

Games to none other than - Tryon. “We are very pleased to

(USA) in 2010 before heading back to Europe in 2014

announce Tryon as the host of the 2018 World Equestrian

for the Alltech FEI WEG in Normandy,

Games,” FEI President Ingmar de Vos announced. “The

France.

Tryon team submitted an impressive bid and we have every confidence in the organizing committee. It’s a truly spectacular venue and almost all of the necessary infrastructure for our eight disciplines is already in place.

We are looking forward to a fantastic celebration of top level sport as all the disciplines come together to crown their World Champions at the Games in 2018.”

“We are thrilled with this news and thank the FEI Bureau for having faith in us and entrusting us with the honor of hosting this prestigious event,” Bellissimo said. “It’s a really great fit for the Carolinas Equestrian heritage and we look forward to working closely with the FEI and with the USEF to produce fabulous FEI World Equestrian Games in 2018.”

The original dates for the Games (Aug 12-26, 2018) The 2018

have been changed following two scientific studies com-

WEG were initially awarded to Bro-

missioned by the FEI which concluded climactic conditions

mont, Canada however a lack of secure funding led to a

would be significantly more favorable in North Carolina

mutual agreement between the FEI and the Canadian

during the month of September, especially important from

Comite organisateur des Jeux Equestres Mondiaux 2018

a horse welfare perspective. The FEI is also mindful of not

(COJEM) to terminate the host contract in July of 2016.

overlapping with other fixtures on the FEI calendar in an

Following Bromont's withdrawals, the FEI mandated the

effort to ensure the optimum timeslot for the 2018 Games.

President to find a solution. The USEF communicated via letter to the FEI of their strong support of the bid to host the 2018 Games in North Carolina. Both North and South Carolina State and local governments expressed support of the bid.

This not to be missed event will be held at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in North Carolina from September 10-23, 2018.

What’s next for Bellissimo? Stay tuned! www.tryon2018.com. www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

79

ZODiAC Manish’s Zodiac Signs Predictions for

MARCH/APRIL 2017 ZODiAC ZODiAC Aquarius

Pisces

( 20 January – 18 February )

( 19 February – 20 March )

You are especially resourceful now and you could find yourself enjoying or seeking attention for your intellectual know-how. The ability to express and communicate your ideas is extremely important to you at this time. You are eager to investigate new things, whether scientific or technical. You may particularly value the aesthetics in and around your home during this period. If things are out of whack on the home front, you will do whatever you can to create a peaceful and stable atmosphere. Loyalty and sensitivity in your relationships are more important to you than typically.

Favourable Dates : March 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22 Favourable Colors : White & Green

Original, creative ideas are easy to come by now. You might have a more materialistic view of life for the time being, or you have an increased interest in your own possessions, during this cycle. You are more attracted to objects and possessions that give you a sense of comfort, status, or luxury now. This could be a time when you close an important matter, get in touch with your past, or strengthen an intimate relationship. This is a very playful cycle, when you are inspired creatively and emotionally.

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

Favourable Dates : March 1, 4, 10, 13, 21, 28 Favourable Colors : White & Yellow

ZODiAC ZODiAC

DiAC Aries

Gemini

( 21 March – 19 April )

( 21 May – 20 June)

This is the time when you are more interested in, and focused on accomplishing something important.. More contact with authority figures is likely during this period.

Routine tends to bother you now, as you instinctively are drawn towards anything that brings you up and out of the mundane. Your thinking is more creative than usual. You tend to entertain others with your conversation; and your sense of humor is especially strong. Your thoughts turn to children, pleasures, or romance during this expressive cycle. You might enjoy researching speculative ventures now.

Work and the demands of daily life continue to be hectic this month, but you become more pleasantly busy as the month moves along. Intimate connections can be especially rich and meaningful during this cycle. Your magnetism revolves around mysterious fascination rather than outgoing charm. Intensity appeals in your relationships. This can also be a time in which you discover untapped resources or talents. Chances to improve or attract a close partnership abound, however. It’s time to compromise, negotiate, and perhaps let a partner take the lead for a while.

Favourable Dates : March 3, 4, 12, 13, 21, 22 Favourable Colors : White & Green

Favourable Dates : March 1, 3, 10, 12, 19, 21 Favourable Colors : White & Blue

Taurus

Cancer

Signs Predictions for

MBER 2016

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com ( 21 June – 22 July )

( 20 April – 20 May ) Creative energy is on your side. Support from a family member or friends is forthcoming and your spirit is pioneering. You may be asked for advice and communications flow smoothly.

The discovery of a way to increase your income, an unexpected gift or reward, or a brief and tiny financial crisis that motivates you to find new ways to make money are possible. Pour your energy into your work and your finances, and you might just be able to take your ideas to the bank.

Extravagance with your pocketbook is something you may want to look out for, however.

Favourable Dates :March 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22 Favourable Colors : White & Yellow

|

November 2016

You may be especially busy running errands and communicating with others. More articulate than usual, you may also have a more assertive, self-centered, or provocative communication style at this time. This cycle presents an opportunity to get rid of what doesn’t work in your life, while also discovering what does. You could seek distinction and strive towards perfection in your work.

Dedication and commitment to your goals runs high. Efficiency should be your goal now.

Your physical health, as well as the relationship between your body and your mind, are in focus.

Favourable Dates : March 4, 5, 13, 14, 22, 23 Favourable Colors : Red & Black

86

|

81 www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | March/April 2017

November 2016

e.com

ZODiAC Leo

Libra

( 23 July – 22 August )

( 23 September – 22 October )

This is an enterprising month for you. You want to leave your mark on the world in some way–however big or small–and you are in the position to do just that. . Intimate matters are especially important to you during this cycle. Just how well you are handling your life comes up for inspection. Your self-mastery skills and psychological predisposition matter to you more than usual. This is the time of year when you are most desirous of change on a deep level.

You may get a cosmic push to make necessary financial changes in your life. Sharing issues come into focus, as do issues of power.. Your comfort zones matter, and now is the time to take care of your own needs without eclipsing the needs of others. With regard to your serious partnerships, long-term relationships tend to thrive. Use these days for strengthening your connection or attracting a serious partnership. In general, you are adaptable when it comes to your affections–very willing to compromise, negotiate and make peace.

Favourable Dates : March 1, 4, 10, 13, 19, 22 Favourable Colors : White & Grey

Favourable Dates : March 3, 5, 12, 14, 21, 23 Favourable Colors : Yellow & Grey

Virgo

Scorpio

( 23 August – 22 September )

( 23 October – 21 November )

There are good chances of a real success and of accomplishing everything you have planned. The more talent, creativity, sensitiveness your projects involve, the bigger the chances. A sudden job opportunity, or some form of assistance with regards to career, home, or property matters, could be part of the picture.

This can also produce an event that requires you to take charge and show your responsible side. Love, appreciation and the need for companionship are expressed more naturally. Capitalize on opportunities that appear, when respect and even admiration come your way.

Favourable Dates : March 3, 9, 12, 18, 21, 27 Favourable Colors : White & Blue

This period marks a new beginning for you. Flaws in an important system in your life are revealed and it’s time to start fresh. This can be a passionate time for you, and a time when you might feel more bold than usual. If you are feeling good about yourself and especially if you have taken advantage of the time for re-building of confidence, you will fairly radiate during this expressive period. Your magnetism revolves around mysterious fascination rather than outgoing charm. Intensity appeals in your relationships.

Favourable Dates : March 1, 8, 10, 17, 19, 26 Favourable Colors : Yellow & Blue

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March/April 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

ww

ZODiAC Sagittarius

Capricorn

( 22 November -21 December )

( 22 December – 19 January )

Financial prosperity or social success may come through your marriage partner or romantic interest at this time.

Your general well-being and emotional health depend on sound and meaningful relationships–both social and romantic during this cycle.. You are more inclined to dig your heels in and hang on to what makes you feel most secure than to take big risks. This is a stable position for love matters and close relationships. You value those who make you feel comfortable, and familiarity is more important to you than someone new during this cycle.

This is a phase in which you have an increased awareness of your environment and when you experience increased alertness. It’s a good time to take tests, fill out forms, start a new course, write letters, make phone calls, and take care of daily tasks with energy. You may feel renewed by a new perspective on your life, something philosophical or spiritual that you read or learn, or an adventure that takes you away from the mundane routines in your life. It is also a good time to make contacts and to make something public.

Favourable Dates : March 4, 7, 13, 16, 22, 25 Favourable Colors : Red & Grey

Favourable Dates : March 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Favourable Colors : White & Blue

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November 2016

Kumar is a renowned KP Manish Kumar Arora is aManish renowned KP Arora Astrologer, Numerologist, Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Reder & Vastu Tarot Reader & Vastu Consultant. hasrendering been rendering profesConsultant.

He hasHe been professional advice clients withdegree a reasonable degree sional advice to clients with to a reasonable of success.

Heof has success. been conferred with the title of 'Jyotish Varahamihir' and 'Jyotish He has been conferred with the title of 'Jyotish Aryabhatt.' HeVarahamihir' has been writing monthlyAryabhatt.' astrological and 'Jyotish Hecolumns has beenfor writing monthly astrological columns for many many international magazines. international magazines.

www.facebook.com/manishastroconsultant

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