DECEMBER 2021
CPINC.COM
CHARLOTTE PINC PROFILES IN COLOR
Decking the Halls with Elle
JOY OF WREATHS With
Joy Graham INES TUTURO SERVES UP HOLIDAY DESERTS
Our Holiday Favorites Zulery AScent of Heaven Wrappers Delight Courtly Crafted Cocktails
Show the world
Your Best You!
Give your skin and body a restorative, rejuvenating treatment that will leave you feeling and looking great!
Your Best You Medical Spa is an appointment only Medical Spa providing specialized Skin Rejuvenation and Women's Wellness services utilizing FDA approved medical grade products and procedures to achieve the desired results.
At Your Best You Medical Spa, we can assure you that you are in good hands. Alexis McRae MD is a Board Certified Emergency Medicine (ABEM) and Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM) Physician.
Dr. McRae is committed to treating the entire person. Maintaining a balance between physical, mental and emotional heath is paramount. Together we will develop YOUR personal and individualized plan to help you become the BEST version of yourself.
Customized Skin Care Plans, ZO Skin Health Products, Laser Skin Care Services & Laser Tattoo Removal, Cosmetic Botox, Juvederm, Kybella, Latisse and Women’s Wellness SalonLofts WindsorSquare 9949 E Independence Blvd | Loft 11 Matthews, NC 28105
Alexis Mc Rae, MD
Call 704-635-1229 for Appointment salonlofts.com/your_best_you_medical_spa
1 | CPINC
2 | CPINC
ст
ва
!
Felicaess! Fiest
вого Рож
hna
We
s ma s i r san g Ki a ana W
a most joyous holiday season, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
i
c h te
Feliz Natal
聖誕快n樂
a y i r Tanoshii He rismakurisu masu wo! k
us
행복 휴일
Zie m ass
k vēt
Lanui!
īg u s
Mutlu Bayramlar!
ie c
A Freylekhn Yontev!
Christmas is my favorite holiday cheer. The lights, the holiday. Beyond the giving of decorations, the songs, the eggnog gifts, loveChristmas the holiday cheer and theIugly sweaters! It's and how go out our way the one timewe of year whenof we seem to bebe able to put differences to kind toaside each other. Inand our be kind to each other. In our first first holiday edition, we want to holiday edition, we want to celebrate celebrate those who deck the those who deck the halls, spread joy, halls, spread joy, and light up and light up the neighborhood. you are celebrating theWhether neighborhood. Whether Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa., you celebrate Christmas,or just the season in general, we wish you Hnaukkah, Kwanaa.
Pr
God jul
Happy il z ad د Holidays ي e ج d F vi as! م دال ي م t د ع ي sChristmas is my favorite holiday. Na e Beyond Hau'oli the giving of gifts, I love the
F ro he
Hauskaa joulua
Prettige Kerstdagen
Jie Ri Yu Kuai!
Häid jõule
Χαρούμ ενα Χριστού γεννα
JoyeuxNoël
Čestit Božić
스마스리크 리 메
tes!
Buon Natale
де
圣诞快乐
Boa sF
тли
S
З К алядам
Glædelig Jul
Сч
ас
Merry Christmas
メリークリスマス Frohe Božić ćan e r Feiertage!
noce Vá
MERI KIRIHIMETE!
Vese lé
A Note From The Publisher
ê F Joyeuses Buone nta Laetha sona Feste! saoire
fericit Sawadee Pee Mai! Ii holide
Selamat Hari Raya! Crăciun
Happy Веселого Holidays, Р здва Mate!
eximnandi!
Vanuinui vinaka Me Nomuni!
Wesołych Świąt! 3 | CPINC
Charlotte Pinc Magazine
P.O. Box 25008 Charlotte, NC 28229 (704) 526-9319 www.charlottepinc.com
Lynn Leary, Publisher Paige Leary, Editor DeAndra Easter, Graphic Designer Contributing Writers Alex Bert TyJuana Wilson Corinna M. Costello, Ph.D Contributing Photographers Corrine Olarte Seneca Robinson
ADVERTISING Sales (704) 879-6295 sales@cha rlottepi nc.com
lnstagram: charlotte_pinc Facebook: Facebook.com/charlottepinc Twitter: twitter.com/charlotte_pinc
Photo by Seneca Robinson Letters to the Editor: Please send an email to info@charlottepinc.com, mail to PO. Box 25008, Charlotte, NC 28229. Copyright© 2027 Charlotte Profiles in Color Magazine. All rights reserved. Copying or reproduction, in part or in whole, is strictly prohibited. Charlotte Pinc Magazine reserves the right to deny an advertisement, listing or feature that does not meet Charlotte Pine's standards or that is outside the scope or mission of our magazine. Charlotte Pinc magazine assumes no responsibility for information, products, services, or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.
4 | CPINC
Table of Contents 7. Santa Looks Like Me 8.
Give the Gift of Time
10. Overcoming Holiday Blues
12. Joy of Wreaths with Joy Graham 15. Ebony Wines
16. Skys the Limit with Ines
20. Holiday Makeup Looks 22. Our Favorite Holiday Things 25. Planning the Perfect Party
28. Decking the Halls with Elle 32. December Celebrations
5 | CPINC
6 | CPINC
A Santa Like Me During the holiday season snapping a photo with
wishes of the attendees of the 10th Annual Grey’s
Santa Claus is a holiday tradition. But for families of
Holiday Party. Keyes epitomizes Santa. From the real
color, it is often difficult to find a Santa that is rep-
the sparkle in his eyes to the wonder in his voice
resentative of their family. Change, however, is on
when he talks about the magic of Santa and look in
the horizon. For the first time in its 66-year history,
the eyes children when they see him.
Disney is incorporating a Black Santa in its Christmas celebration. Despite Megan Kelly’s assertion other-
Keyes has been with Santas Just Like Me since the
wise, it is not a universal truth that “Santa is white.”
company formed. One of his first outings as Santa
Retailers including Macy’s, Old Navy and malls across
was the Gray’s Holiday Party, in Charlotte, NC. When
the country have finally awoken to something that
asked when he became Santa, he responded, “In my
that People of Color have always known, represen-
heart I have always been Santa.” He tells the story of
tation matters! It was out of this truth that Santas
walking through a mall and noticing little children, in
Just Like Me was born. Founded in Durham, North
particular, staring at him. His wife noticed it also and
Carolina in 2013, the company and its Black Santas
remarked, “I think they think you are Santa!” It was
has been bringing joy to children and parents alike.
soon after that he formally took on the role and has been Santa ever since. It is more than just the white
On December 11, 2021, Black Santa came to town, or
beard that makes Keyes Santa. There is a vibrancy
more specifically the Harvey B. Gantt Center. Warren
that that surrounds him and a joyous spirit that
Keyes, the original Santas Just Like Me, Black Santa,
shines through. Black children and parents alike have
came to spread good cheer and hear the Christmas
a deep appreciation for Keyes and other like him
wishes of the attendees of the 10th Annual Grey’s
because through them, they can see that Santa's just
Holiday Party.
like me. 7 | CPINC
Give The Gift Of Time This Holiday Season T
he gift-giving season of the
Classroom Charlotte Classroom Central provides free
year has begun, and while many of us
school supplies to teachers in almost
would pre-fer to give material
200 schools in which more than half
presents to our loved ones, we can
of the children qualify for reduced or
perhaps do things a little dif-ferently
free lunch. You could volunteer at a
this time. You could devote some of
free teacher shopping event. If you
your time to those in need through
can’t make it to an event, you could
one or more of the various
donate to the cause or start a
opportunities for volunteering in
fundraiser for donations.
Charlotte, NC. There are so many
Address: 2116 Wilkinson Blvd.
people who don’t get to enjoy this season due to challenging
Friendship Trays
circumstances, so just a little time
Every day, this organization takes a
and effort from us can help change
maxi-mum of 120 volunteers to
things for the better. One act of
help prepare and distribute
kindness really can make a
nutritious meals to infirmed and
difference. With that said, here are
elderly individuals in Charlotte. While
volunteering op-portunities to
the meals in themselves are
consider.
essential, the organization also helps combat loneliness and a lack of
Charlotte Rescue Mission
socialization among infirmed and
This organization helps people
elderly individuals by offering consist-
affected by addiction to enable them
ent help.
to recover and become active
Address: 2401 Distribution St. # A
members of their respective communities. The organization does not discriminate on genders or ages, allowing anyone to help turn their lives around. You could participate by helping prepare and serve meals, assist at events, tutor people, help in the store, or be part of the organiz-ing team for the life skills training programs. Address: Rebound: 907 W. 1st St.; Dove’s Nest: 2855 West Blvd.
8 | CPINC
Overcoming the Holiday Blues By Corinna M. Costello, Ph.D., LCMHCS, LCPC, ATR-BC
The holiday seasons are synonymous with families uniting for cheer and merriment, sparkling light shows and seasonal music of unity, hope, and magical acts of kindness. These are some of the hallmark concepts related to the holiday season. But the reality is often in stark contrast to this idyllic holiday image. For many, the holiday season is marred by struggles related to feelings of sadness, lack of joy and loss of hope. We may call it the “holiday blues” but for many, this time of year brings on difficulties related to emotions and mental health concerns. Some causes for the “holiday blues” connect back to unrealistic beliefs and expectations that set us up for failure. The natural end of the year brings on reflections of the past and past failures, challenges and struggles leading to feelings of sadness and/or loneliness. The nature of the holidays, gift giving, and commercialization may lead to increased financial concerns and uncertainty about the future. Strained family relationships and
get togethers may increase feelings of stress and exhaustion. Poor eating habits, a reduction in exercise, and an increase in substance use all reinforce those feelings. Reduced sunlight and inclement weather limits outdoor activities; these factors may impact our ability to manage some of the holiday emotions, thus leading feeling melancholy. If you are experiencing the holiday blues, there is good news! These emotions do not have to be permanent. How do we manage the emotions related to the holiday blues? The impact of the holiday emotions includes an understanding that being kind to oneself matters. Self-care and grace are critical to reducing feelings of being overwhelmed. Creating a day-to-day schedule and setting boundaries are key components to your overall emotional health. Saying no to events that do not fit into your schedule is important. Mindfulness and relaxation are vital to the process of managing your emotions. Taking a break, daily
exercise, or a meditative moment are important methods for selfcare and control in a moment of stress. These approaches increase stress-relieving hormones such as dopamine, serotonin, and melatonin to improve your overall health. Incorporating intentional, self-care activities can increase your mood and help you decrease the holiday blues. If you know that you struggle emotionally during the holidays, be proactive, take care of yourself, do something that will be of help to others and express gratitude for the areas in your life that are going well. The holiday season is a moment in time, but these tools and techniques for wellness can be used to help you on your emotional wellness journey all year long. If you are in need of emotional support, now, or at anytime, we encourage you to reach out to our offices. We would be more than happy to assist. Contact us: Personal Enrichment Counseling & Consulting Services Phone: 704-709-5575 Web: PersonallyEnriched.com
9 | CPINC
Culture.Beauty.Luxury.
WWW.EBONYWINEANDSPIRITS.COM
10 | CPINC
5 Tips To Avoid Holiday Overspending December can be the costliest month of the year for most people. Americans spend 9x the amount of money retail shopping in December than they do at any other time of the year. The joy and euphoria experienced from the giving and receiving of gifts is often followed by a January full of regret and stress when credit card bills come due, or finances are tighter than anticipated.
1 Set a Budget Know exactly how much money you feel comfortable spending. Buying gifts has a major impact on your budget, but so do other activities including entertaining and traveling. Be sure you budget is realistic and encompasses all expenses. Be sure to track you spending to ensure you stay within budget. 2 Make a List Instead of just wandering the mall looking for inspiration, work out how you want to spend your budget. Determine your gift recipients and what you would like to get each person. This way, you avoid browsing in the stores, which can lead to temptation and impulse buys that can derail your budget in a single transaction. 3
Avoid Impulse Buys Because it’s on sale, does not mean it’s a bargain for you. Unless that doorbuster helps you save on an item that was on your list (for real), avoid the lure of the red tag. Avoid impulse spending and add-ons.
4 Go Cash Only. It might be easier to swipe and go as you shop, but if going into debt over the holidays is a repeat pattern for you, consider committing to going all-cash, at least for the holiday season, when shopping in person.
5
Give the Gift of Time Not all gifts have to be purchased, so don’t be afraid to get creative and consider gifting experiences and activities. This could be a good time to take your mind off of spending money and refocus it on spending time with your loved ones, instead. 11 | CPINC
Joy Of Wreaths
Her passion for wreath making started a few years back when Joy found herself unable to find a wreath that aligned with her faith, and her budget. "I just wanted a wreath that had daisies, and scripture, but I couldn't find one anywhere. If you are looking for the perfect decoration for your And when I found something close, the seller door, look no further than Charlotte local, Joy Grawanted $200! I thought to myself 'Hey, I could ham. She is the owner and Lead Creative of Joy of make this!'" And she did. When Joy made herself Wreaths! While most commonly displayed on doors, the very wreath she was looking for, she posted it wreaths can also be placed above a mantle, on a wall, to Facebook and immediately had a buyer reach or even as part of a holiday centerpiece. Whether it’s out wanting a replica of her "Sunflower" design, a door decoration for your favorite football team, or as well as a few others. Today, nearly 200 comthe perfect accompani ment for your holiday decoratpleted wreath orders later, Joy and her boys work ing, Joy makes wreaths for all seasons and occasions. together to keep up with the high demand of cusWith the help of her two boys, Jahkai (15) and Kinrick tom wreaths. Joy is proud to say that each wreath (12), Joy spends anywhere from 45 minutes to two is made with love, care, and attention, and hopes hours crafting her hand made, made to order pieces. your creation blesses you and your family, like it does hers. 12 | CPINC
2
1 1. Sunflower The charming Sunflower Wreath is covered with a generous amount of sunflowers, greenery, and a pop of orange color including winding vines. dolorion rem ($58)
2. Silver Bells A sparkly and sophisticated design on a birch wreath. This design features silver metallic florals, pine cones, greenery, and just a pop of white/red. It is finished with a glitter bell and a red bow. $63
3. Meet The Browns Wired round base with green and red Deco Mesh. Flocked greenery, strand of berries, and signage of an African American family is featured. Finshed with a red & white burlap bow. $68
3
Shop with Joy: W: www.JoyofWreaths.com IG: @JoyofWreaths Etsy: "Joy Of Wreaths" 13 | CPINC
Welcome to the Home of “Therapeutic Lifestyle Change”
$69/month BHC “Basic Health Care” Membership • • • • • • • •
20 virtual or face to face visits yearly Annual Physical Well Woman Exam and pap Women’s Health and wellness Routine Labs included Assistance with specialists, free mammograms, discounted health services Prescription program Boutique style health care
$99/month TLC “Therapeutic Lifestyle Change” Membership • • • •
Includes all of the BHC perks Personalized Wellness plan Individual counseling Discounted cardiovascular risk lab
www.ahawdpc.com
Call for your free consultation 980-949-6000
@ahawdpc @ahawdpc Linkedin.com/in/Leslie-ware33000a166 14 | CPINC
Ebony Wine & Spirits is the only black-owned wine and spirits company based in Charlotte, NC.
Owned by Camillya Masunda and inspired by her Congolese roots, Ebony Wine & Spirits was created to celebrate the history and heritage of vast black cultures around the globe within all of the uniqueness that they embody and represent. Ebony Wine & Spirits was birthed and grows from a place of love and true unity. The taste and profile tell a beautiful story with every sip on the pallet. Ebony Wines currently offers 4 flavor profiles: Riesling, Moscato, Red Fusion, and a Sparkling Brut Rosè with more on the way. The prize of the brand's summer col-lection is its sparkling bubbly, Kinshasa, named after the capital city of Congo, where Masunda's family is from.
17. Put Your Subtitle Here 15 | CPINC
The Skys The Limit For Ines From sugar cookies perfect for a holiday gift box to masterfully- created cakes, Amelia Ines Aranguren has all the holiday desserts that go beyond your traditional sugar cookies. Check out the mouth watering delicacies here. Holiday desserts are the pièce de résistance on any Christmas table. From gingerbread cookies perfect for a holiday gift box to masterfully-created cakes after an epic Christmas dinner, Amelia Ines Aranguren Tuturo masterfully creates all desserts - from sugar cookies and beyond. Let us take a look at the unbelievably inspiring desserts that the owner of the Sky’s the Limit Bridal Sweets has crafted for her customers. 1. Blueberry snowflake tart Buttery pâté Brisee crust with a blueberry and apple pie filling. Snowflake crust tops off the tart. 2. Snowflake Sugar cookies Buttery ok’d fashion d trikes sugar cookies decorated with royal icing snowflake accents. 3. Snow Kissed chocolate chip sliders Home made chocolate cookies paired with vanilla cream cheese spread. It’s the perfect balance of chocolate and it’s counterpart…vanilla! Contact Skys The Limit Bridal Sweets IG and Facebook: @stlcake and @stlbsweddings Email : STLBridalSweets@gmail.com
1.
16 | CPINC
2.
2.
3.
3. 17 | CPINC
18 | CPINC
19 | CPINC
Tis The Season To Sparkle!
Whitney Seabrook of Whitney Elise Beauty is the Master esthticican behind our Holiday Face Lookbook. Based in Charlotte, this small business owner makes even the most intricate makeup looks seem effortless. As a professional makeup artists, Seabrook's mission is to empower Woman of Color through high end luxury beauty services, while educating clients on the importance of skin-care, beauty, and self- love. With the help of three models, Whitney curated three signature looks perfect for the many parties and gatherings happening this holiday season. Contact Whitney: Instagram @WhitneyEliseBeauty www.whitneyelisbeauty.com whitneyelisebeauty@gmail.com
20 | CPINC
Look 1 Feeling Festive Natasha's festive look features a jingle bell glitter eye shadow and a high beam glossy lip. Who doesn’t love sparkle and glitter during the holidays? Cheers to glitz and glam!
Look 3
Classic Holiday Glam Flirty Lashes with a Bold Red lip thats perfect for the classy girl who doesn’t want to do too much but still wants to partake in the Celebration.
Look 2
Sugar Plum Sleigh Allysons soft beat emphasizes a cut crease bold Eye with a silver shimmer base
tran-
sitioned with tones of plum colors, paired with a neutral lip. This is a look for the woman that wants to bring subtle drama to the holiday party. A perfect balance of naughty & nice! 21 | CPINC
8
11
5
4
1
2
3
1
9
6
7
22 | CPINC
10
1
Our Holiday Favorites 1
Red drop earrings ($40). Availible for purchase on IG: @ZoulJewelry.
2
Mr. and Mrs. Clause Gift bags ($4.50). Availible for purchase on IG: @Wrappersdelightofficial. A Scent of Heaven Parrafin and
3
Soy blend candle in "Homebody" ($15). Availible for purchase on IG: @Ascent_of_heaven.
4
Santa mask ($12.00). Availible for purchase on IG: @ Wrappersdelightofficial.
5
Vibrance drop earrings ($40). Availible for purchase on IG: @ZoulJewelry.
11
1
6
Family Wreath ($58). Availible for purchase on IG: @Joy_Of_Wreaths.
7
Red Triangle earrings ($40). Availible for purchase on IG: @ZoulJewelry.
8
Honey Rosemary Fig Holiday Cocktail Kit ($25). Availible for purchase on IG: @CourtlyCrafted.
9
The
Nutcracker
&
Ballerina
Greeting Cards - 10 Pack ($14.99). Availible for purchase on IG: @ Wrappersdelightofficial.
12
10
A Scent of Heaven Parrafin and Soy blend candle in "After Dark" ($15). Availible for purchase on IG: @Ascent_of_heaven.
11
A Scent of Heaven Parrafin and Soy blend candle in "Fallen Leaves" ($15). Availible for purchase on IG: @Ascent_of_heaven.
12
"Chasing Waterfalls" drop earrings ($40). Availible for purchase on IG: @ZoulJewelry. Cortly Crafted Syrups and
13 13
Garnishes. ($Varies). Availible for purchase IG: @CourtlyCrafted. 23on | CPINC
Book appointments at:
www.dbdsalon.com
440 E. McCullough Dr. Suite 215 Charlotte, NC 28262 980-224-7422
15. Put Your Subtitle Here
Bring a photo of this promotion 24 | CPINC through 12/31/21
Throwing The Perfect Holiday Party By Autumn Hubbard Location Location, location, location!! When planning the PERFECT holiday party, most people fail to realize the #1 rule of event planning: if you don’t have a venue, you don’t have a date. The first step to planning your event is securing a place for it to be held. My favorite locations to host holiday parties are private dining rooms in restaurants, nice neighborhood clubhouses, and hotel ballrooms. All three of these options offer customizations that cater to a wide variety of events. In a private dining room, food is of the utmost importance! I always suggest providing your guests with a custom menu made by the chef, allowing you to add group appetizers and bottles of wine to impress even the grinches of the group. One tip for a private dining room experience: ask the restaurant if you can come in early to add decor to the tablescape. Also ask them
what color napkins they have so you can incorporate that into your color scheme as well! A few bouquets of flowers or a balloon arch in a private dining room make all the difference. Planning Big or small, you’ll want to have all your planning information and inspiration in one spot! I love creating a Google folder to drop inspiration, keep the RSVP list, the itinerary for the day, and budget. Pro tip- Google Sheets has an entire Wedding Planning template that has everything you need to plan a medium to large event. The template is helpful to look at to get an idea of what goes through a pro-planner’s head during the process of planning an event! Don’t leave food and drinks on the back-burner. What sets a great event apart from a “just ok” event is ALWAYS the food! First, you want to make sure you have enough. Second, you want to make sure it tastes good! Many caterers will allow for a tasting of the menu you select. Take advantage of that and taste everything! Decor For a New Year’s Party, the best decor could be a flip flop, slipper, or sock table! Yes, flip flops! If your guests want to get up and dance to bring in the new year, you’ll want them out of those fancy shoes and on the dance floor. This would also serve as a perfect party favor for everyone to remember your epic New Year’s bash!
A balloon wall or photo booth. Nowadays, every good party needs a photo moment. Balloons are the new craze and I don’t think they are going anywhere. You can make them look extremely luxe with a balloon designer (Charlotte PinC knows a few ;) or you can go full DIY will balloon kits on Amazon and a detailed YouTube video. If balloons aren’t your thing, create a photo space with a bench or chair, a good backdrop, some fun props and a ring light! My favorite venue in Charlotte is owned by a Black woman. It’s called the Good Life at Enderly Park. This venue is FULL of picturesque spots, yet still gives you a blank slate for your event needs with its’ white walls and simple furnishings. The venue also has a bar! The owner of this venue loves supporting black women and has a ton of connections in the events industry of Charlotte Execution If you’re looking for someone to plan your next party, so you can enjoy the moment, I’d love to partner with you to make your vision a reality!
Contact Autumn: Phone: (980) 263-9098 Email: Autumn@thegreaterglow.com Website: www.TheGreaterGlow.com
20 25 | CPINC
AMAZING EXPERIENCE. EVEN BETTER SMILES.
A List Smiles Orthodontics 2510 Vista Drive, Suite 103 Charlotte, NC 28215
myalistsmiles.com
7 0 4 . 6 6265|.CPINC 7078
27 | CPINC
Decking The Halls With Elle
28 | CPINC
believes that more is better. Nothing is offlimts to use as decorations. As you can see, Elle has used this philosophy to the maximum and has festooned the Christmas trees in the living rooms with as many baubles and buntings as she could find. There are two predominant color themes for this home decoration. The Christmas tree in the living room with the baby grand piano is dressed in red to complement the warm and welcoming earthy tones of the room itself. Elle has chosen to dress this tree in shades of vermillion and scarlet. The tree is crowned with a bright red bow and is adorned with dozens of red silk flowers. To prevent the vibrant color from becom-ing too overwhelming, Elle has accented the tree with matte gold ribbons and baubles that match the golden-brown interior décor of the room and highlight the dark wood baby grand piano and fireplace, giving the living room a cozy and festive air.
T
Elle Wilson, photo by Corine Olarte
he holidays are just around the corner — and
for Elle Wilson of Elle & Co Event Design and
Rentals, this means decking the halls just in time for Christmas. We have asked Elle to give us us a sneak peek inside one of the homes she is dressing for the holidays. From red-themed door wreaths to white-and-gold indoor Christ-mas decorations, let us take a look at some of the secrets of Christmas decoration that Elle shares with us. This holiday, Elle is tasked with decorating a gorgeous 6000+ square foot home in an af- luent gated community. The house is elegant and houses four Christmas trees inside. There are two 12-foot trees in the main living room, a red tree in the living room with the baby grand piano, and a white and gold tree in the kitchen. Here is what she did with the space: Red, White, and Gold. The designer in Elle be-lieves that more is better. Nothing is o -limits to use as decorations. As you can see, Elle has used this philosophy to the maximum and has festooned the Christmas trees in the liv-ing rooms with as many baubles and buntings as she could find. The designer in Elle
The front door is also flanked with two smaller Christmas trees in the same festive red theme and has a wreath placed in the middle of it. Completely opposite to this vibe, the tree in the kitchen has been decked an icy white and gold, and pays tribute to the winter season. The Christmas tree has been decked head to toe in a curated mix of white flowers, gold ribbons, and white and gold baubles in several layers, making it ap-pear extremely opulent, but matching the predominantly white and brown-gold décor of the room. The room also consists of a white marble fireplace with a gilded mirror on top and Elle chose to decorate it with white and pale gold Christmas stockings. The shimmering metallic colors set off the icy white brilliantly and complement the room’s color scheme perfectly. The gold and white ornaments and other metallic decorations sparkle brilliantly, which makes the living room appear more luxurious. All in all, Elle’s decorations were the per-fect complement to the light, laughter, and Christmas cheer that the holidays bring! 29 | CPINC
Elle & Co. Events and Rental IG: elleandco.charlotte E: info@ellecoeventdesign.com
30 | CPINC
31 | CPINC
December Holiday Celebrations
Las Posadas
By DeAndra Easter
At this time of year, there is so much worth celebrating! Here in the states, in mid-October, you will find Christmas decorations in the stores. But Christmas isn't the only celebration of the season. Here are three others holidays celebrated in December.
Hanukkah Also known as “Chanukah,”
Hanukkah is an eight-day long Jewish holiday that begins at sunset on November 28. This “festival of lights” continues until nightfall on December 6. This is a time of rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem celebrated with the nightly lighting of the Menorah, a candelabrum that holds nine flames; one of which is called the shamash (“attendant”). This flame is located in the center and used to light the other eight candles.
Blessings are recited, traditional songs are sung, menorahs are lit and toys (such as “dreidels”) are played with. These customs are accompanied by the giving of a Chanukah gelt, chocolate coins or monetary gifts given to children for their devotion to Torah study, and as a reward for positive behavior. This provides the children with the opportunity to participate in giving tzedakah, or charity.
Kwanzaa Created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, Kwanza is a holiday that honors African heritage within African-American culture.
Observed from December 26 to January 1, the holiday is full of symbolism that is usually observed in the decorations. A mushumaa saba (candle) from the Kinara is lit each night of the celebration.. Other decorative symbols include: mazao (crops), mkeka (place mat), vibunzi (ear of corn), kikombe cha umoja (the unity cup), and zawadi (gifts).
Las Posadas originated in Spain and is a time of reflection for the journey prior to Jesus’ birth. Lasting nine days, (representing the nine month Mary carried Jesus in her womb) parties featuring piñatas, prayers, music, food, and fireworks take place in the homes of different families. Processions, led by an “angel,” are held to be a symbolic act of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter in Bethlehem on the night of Christ’s birth.
Wherever the procession halts, carols are sung and scripture is read. Mass is held after the procession. At the close of services, piñatas (usually starshaped) filled with money, candy, and toys are broken into on behalf of attending children. The star usually has seven points, symbolizing the seven deadly sins. Anything that falls from the piñata is to be deemed a reward from heaven.
The seven candles are lit in recognition and celebration of the Nguzo Suba (the seven core principles) - faith, unity, selfdetermination, collective work & responsibility, purpose, creativity, and cooperative economics. 32 | CPINC
MISSING CALENDER INFORMATION AND AD
33 | CPINC
35
34 | CPINC