Charlotte PinC Fall/Winter 2023

PINC

FALL | WINTER 2023

FALL FEASTS

WITH CULINARY GUIDE HALEY WILLIAMS

FROM GREIF TO SUCSESS HOW Katina Foster balances loss, life, and business

LETS SWIM

SISTERHOOD AND STRIKES WITH JOHNSON C. SMITH

3

DRINKS

TO IMPRESS YOUR GUESTS

ITS NEVER TOO LATE TO SWIM WITH MERMAIDS

WWW.CHARLOTTEPINC.COM

Interested In Becoming A Driver?

Building a community of women drivers and riders while providing a safe, stress-free alternative rideshare experience!

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www.justherrideshare.com

Letter From the Editor

DEAR READERS, As we approach the end of the year, I want to reflect on the lessons I learned and the connections I’ve made. This year has been full of growth and learning for me, both personally and professionally, and I am grateful for every experience that has led me to where I am today. One of my proudest achievements this year has been showing up and doing my best. As a young business owner, it can be daunting to navigate an unknown path. But through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, I have made progress and grown personally and professionally in ways I never thought possible.

In this edition of Charlotte PinC Magazine, we’re featuring stories of women who have also shown up this year.

They have pursued their passions, dedicated themselves to their businesses, and emerged stronger and more resilient than ever despite the daily obstacles women of color face. Their stories are a testament to their power of perseverance and dedication, and I hope they inspire you as much as they have inspired me.

As we look ahead to the new year, I encourage you to dedicate 2024 to showing up for yourself in whatever way that means to you.

Whether it's pursuing your passions, starting that business, or simply taking care of yourself, know that showing up and doing your best is always worth it. You will never regret putting in the effort to achieve your goals and dreams.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your continued support of Charlotte PinC Magazine. I am truly grateful for your readership and look forward to bringing you more inspiring stories and helpful resources in the coming year. Wishing you all a happy and fulfilling new year!

Sincerely, Paige Editor of Charlotte PinC Magazine

Paige Leary.

Contributors Letters to the Editor: Please send an email to info@charlottepinc.com, and mail to PO. Box 25008, Charlotte, NC 28229.

Copyright ©2023 Charlotte Profiles in Color Magazine.

MERY RICAURTE

BEATRIZ GUERRERO

BRIANA HARPER

AMARA TURNER

PHOTOGRAPHER

WRITER

WRITER

PHOTOGRAPHER

All rights reserved. Copying or reproduction, in part or in whole, is strictly prohibited. Charlotte PinC Magazine reserves the right to deny any advertisement, listing or feature that does not meet Charlotte PinC’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.

CONTACT US: info@charlottepinc.com ADVERTISING: Sales (980) 349-5382 SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram: @charlotte_pinc Facebook: charlottepinc

PINC’S

COMMUNITY CALENDAR DECEMBER 2023 16 Latinx Holiday Market 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm 5249 Central Ave, Charlotte

16 Mistletoe Market 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm 300 Camp Rd, Charlotte

17 Light the Knight Festival 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm 324 S Mint Street, Charlotte,

22 Ornament Workshop

430 S Tryon Street, Charlotte

31 Cirque du Soleil: Bazzar

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1:00 pm - 5:30 pm 5555 Concord Pkwy S, Concord

DIY Terrarium Building

JANUARY 2024

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11:00 am - 4:00 pm 2452 Park Road #Unit D Charlotte

Pinc Popup with Skyfit

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11:00 am - 12:15 pm 255 Remount Road, Charlotte

Shen Yun

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7:30 pm 130 North Tryon St, Charlotte

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Black Notes Project 8:00 pm 430 S Tryon St, Charlotte

Vision Brunch

6:30 pm - 8:00 pm 2452 Park Road #Unit D Charlotte

11:00 am - 2:00 pm 707 E. Hebron Street, Charlotte

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6

Nutcracker

Jurassic World Live Tour

2:00 pm or 7:00 pm 130 N Tryon Street Charlotte

11:00 am - 3:00 pm 333 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC

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The Hip Hop Nutcracker

Tamar Braxton: Love and War 10 Year Anniversary Tour

2:00 pm or 7:00 pm

8:00 pm 820 Hamilton St, Charlotte

VISION BRUNCH 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS SAVORING THE SEASON Score big this season with Haley Williams' fall feasts, the ultimate guide to game day and holiday gatherings Pg.11

3 FESTIVE DRINKS Discover the taste of winter with Master Mixologist Angela Murray and her three seasonal drinks, perfect for chilly weather.

Pg.12

WOMEN BEHIND THE CAMERA

MAHOGONY MERMAIDS

FROM GREIF TO SUCCESS

Shattering stereotypes and capturing moments. Meet the women behind the camera in professional sports.

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Empowering Black Women to swim and flourish with Charlotte' s Mahogany Mermaids.

Pg.23

Overcoming grief and achieving success in the beauty industry.

Pg.30

SISTERHOOD AND STRIKES The Johnson C. Smith University Golden Bulls women' s bowling team is rolling toward victory.

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THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS HOUSE

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

Discover the exquisite Christmas decorations by interior designer Elle Wilson at a Charlotte mansion in this exclusive feature.

Pg.25

Experience the timeless elegance of preserved luxury roses at a local concord flower shop.

Pg.32

A SPECTACULAR BLACK GIRL ART SHOW The annual Spectacular Black Girl Art Show returned to the Queen City for a second year, offering a unique opportunity to witness peak Black Girl Magic in one place.

On Sunday, Nov. 28, artists transformed QC Sound Stage into a pop-up art gallery complete with other Black-owned vendors selling clothing, jewelry, fragrances and more. The traveling group exhibition visits cities across the country featuring the work of some of the best Black women artists.

Many of the creatives use Black women as their muse to create masterpieces that are more than just art but a celebration of representation and inclusion.

“Black women, in general, need more representation of not only different shades, different hairstyles, different age groups,” said artist Rissa of RissArt. ”Kind of a mix of everything because when you’re a little kid, you don’t really see a lot that looks like you, so you get confused.”

From paintings to sculptures to raphic design pieces—it’s all on full display with the goal of sharing the talent and the deeper story

behind the artistry. The sights from the artwork and the sounds courtesy of a DJ make this event a welcoming vibe for friends, families, and anyone in between to connect, create, and converse.

“Sometimes I do go into my periods where I have a creative block, and I don’t know what to draw or what to paint, so I love to follow other creative individuals to see their drive to paint and get me going,” said the artist Taylor Renee.

The goal many artists shared with Charlotte PinC was to start selling their artwork on a large scale and begin earning commissions. But in the meantime, fueling their passion continues to be the driving force.

“It’s my peace,“ said artist Kytkat.

“Touching a canvas and a paintbrush, I just go into a whole other dimension, and that’s where my passion lies.”

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BINGO MEETS

WINE

BY BRIANA HARPER

It’s the best of both worlds when you combine drinking wine and playing games. That’s how Selena Galloway, the owner of Bliss and Blends LLC, says she came to develop the idea of Wine Tasting Bingo.

She adds one of the best parts about the experience is that it’s meant to be fun for everyone—from the wine aficionado to the beginner. First, to get things started, there are a few essentials you’ll be provided with, including a personal charcuterie tray, samples of 15 different wines, a wine description book, a bingo board that lists the different wine flavors, and numbered bingo chips.But before the game can officially begin, a DJ is there to curate the playlist and get everyone in the mood to vibe! One by one, you’ll sample each wine first by looking, then swirling to ignite the aromas of the wine, followed by smelling the

wine, and then finally tasting it. With the help of the wine description book, you’ll use that as a guide to identify which numbered wine matches which flavor listed.

The decision-making can get tricky, but once you’ve made your mind up, you’ll place the numbered chip corresponding to the numbered wine glass on what you believe to be the correct wine flavor. The first to correctly guess and get bingo with five chips in a row wins a free bottle of wine.

A game so simple, yet so enjoyable. The next time you want to spice up a girl’s night, this could certainly be the move.

Check out Bliss & Blends on Instagram @BlissandBlendsLLC.

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SEASONAL SENSATIONS Indulge in the best of the season with Seasonal Sensations! From Herby White Bean Dip to Ginger Chocolate Trifle, impress your guests with these customizable, budget-friendly recipes. Plus, warm up with festive drinks by master mixologist Anji Murray.

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SAVORING THE SEASON

By Haley Williams Photographs by Mery Ricaurte

Embrace the autumn vibes with these fabulous yet budgetfriendly fall recipes, perfect for creating unforgettable moments with loved ones. As your culinary guide, I've handpicked a collection of delectable recipes that cater to your taste buds and make you the star of your gathering.

Let's kick things off with a Herby White Bean Dip—an appetizer that screams sophistication without the hassle. As a student chef, I assure you that it's beginner-friendly and fully customizable. Imagine dipping into this flavorful blend with toasted sourdough adorned with bruschetta and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Classy, right?

For those crisp fall evenings, indulge in the warmth of a 3 Bean Chili. This versatile dish welcomes your creativity—add ground meat, tofu, or your favorite meat alternative. Picture yourself cozying up with a bowl topped with homemade cornbread bites, cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. Comfort food at its finest!

Got a sweet tooth? The ginger chocolate trifle is your go-to

dessert. This layered masterpiece combines ginger cookies, brownies, chocolate pudding, whipped cream, and strawberries. The best part?

Customize it with your preferred pudding flavors, cookies, or candy pieces.

Dessert has never been this decadent and stress-free.

And let's not forget the classic deviled eggs, a timeless dish perfect for any occasion.

Elevate it with your favorite add-ins—think fried shallots, fresh herbs, Calabrian chilies, or a drizzle of chili oil. Simple yet utterly irresistible!

In a nutshell, these recipes are your ticket to fall perfection, whether it's a cozy night in or a vibrant gathering with friends and family. They're easy to make, budget-friendly, and open to your personal touch.

Find more of my culinary adventures on Instagram at @becoming.bonvivant.

XO, Haley

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3 Festive Drinks

With the holiday season approaching, it's time to start thinking about festive drinks to enjoy with friends and family. And who better to turn to for inspiration than master mixologist and Charlotte Pinc’s resident bartender, Anji Murray? Anji has created three seasonal drinks that will delight your taste buds.

First is “Abuelita's Special Hot Chocolate,” a spiked Mexican hot chocolate “that's perfect for those chilly winter nights,” says Murray.

The recipe calls for a blend of spices, including cinnamon, ginger, coriander, nutmeg, chili powder, and clove. Add some chopped bittersweet chocolate, heavy cream, and Southern Star Bourbon Cream to the mix, and you have a delicious treat sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Next on the list is “Baked Apple Pie Cider,” a versatile recipe that can be served hot or cold. Made with Smirnoff Vanilla Vodka, Van Gogh Dutch Caramel Vodka, and apple cider, “this drink is perfect for those who enjoy a little bit of sweetness in their drinks,” Murray says. Anji recommends making a simple vanilla and cinnamon syrup for those who prefer a nonalcoholic version.

Last but not least is “High Fashion,” a new take on a classic cocktail. Made with light brown sugar simple syrup, Woodford Reserve Chocolate, Crude Sycophant, Bittercube Cherry Bark Vanilla, and bourbon or whiskey, this drink is perfect for those who enjoy an intense and omplex cocktail. Anji recommends trying different itters and whiskeys to

find the perfect flavor combination for your tastes.

So there you have it, three delicious seasonal drinks from master mixologist Anji Murray. Whether you're looking for a spiked drink or a mocktail, these recipes will impress.

Check out Anji's website, https://macgyvermixology.my.canva.site, for more cocktail and mocktail recipes and bartending services for your next event. Happy sipping!

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WOMEN BEHIND THE CAMERA From the sidelines to the spotlight, the women behind the camera in Charlotte are making major plays for sports organizations. Get ready to cheer them on as we shine a well-deserved spotlight on these gamechanging ladies.

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ALICIA HARRIS It's 2023, yet women who work in sports broadcasting still face hurdles.

However, dedicated professionals like Alicia Harris, Zhou Klee, and Jonae Benson are changing the narrative.

These women are the unsung heroes behind cherished moments in sports, from Sunday Night Football, National Hockey League games, and collegiate sports, making the magic happen for viewers nationwide.

West Coast Meets East Coast Hailing from Sacramento, California, Alicia Harris is a powerhouse in sports media. She's left her mark on major media platforms as a contracted camera operator and content creator.

Harris's journey through the world of sports is diverse, covering basketball, football, track, and even hockey. Her talent has shone up on networks such as ESPN and TNT, capturing dynamic moments and stories.

One of Harris's standout experiences was working on an NHL game for TNT through Programming Productions.

"Being a creative, I find joy in expressing myself through my work, especially when it's broadcasted or

streamed. It feels amazing to be a part of history in my own unique way," Harris reflects.

An Internship Opens Doors Harris's career began with an international twist – an internship in Buenos Aires with Estudios Caracol, facilitated by her university and Go Abroad. This global experience laid the foundation for her future successes.

Upon returning to Alabama, she started as a camera operator for the Montgomery Baseball team, a role that kick-started her professional journey in media.

An Unexpected Career Pivot A significant turning point came when Harris moved to Charlotte with her fiancé, seeking better opportunities. A call from an acquaintance led to her first contracted gig, a moment that reshaped her career path. "That experience opened my eyes to the possibilities beyond a traditional media job. It was then I realized I could make a career out of this," Harris says.

Following in the Footsteps of Heroes In the entertainment world, Harris

draws inspiration from industry giants like Ava Duvernay, Ryan Coogler, and Issa Rae. Her ambition doesn't stop at sports; Harris aspires to transition into television and film, using her skills either in front or behind the camera. "I've already dipped my toes into this field, working on an Apple segment and a Chevy commercial as a production assistant during the pandemic," she adds.

With a network of connections and a reservoir of talent, Alicia Harris is on a trajectory to redefine her role in the media landscape, proving that women in sports broadcasting are not just participants but game-changers.

“Being a creative, I find joy in expressing myself through my work, especially when it's broadcasted or streamed. It feels amazing to be a part of history in my own unique way.”

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JONAE BENSON From Charlotte to Duke Charlotte's very own Jonae Benson is a key figure behind the scenes in college football, particularly at Duke University. At 25, she serves as the Associate Director of Football Recruitment, a role that combines her passion for the sport with her talent for strategic planning and communication.

Benson's responsibilities are integral to Duke's football program. "I organize events for prospective studentathletes, focusing on the defensive side. This involves arranging both official and unofficial visits and engaging recruits through creative graphics, tailored writing campaigns, and coordinated messages," she explains.

A Personal Passion Leads to Designing the Play Her love for football, ignited by watching games with her father, has evolved into a rewarding career path.

Benson finds joy in connecting with Black families of potential athletes, understanding the unique dynamics and concerns they may have. "In a predominantly white institution, it's

crucial to have representation in the athletic department, especially in a sport with mostly Black athletes," she remarks.

Her journey began at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where Benson pursued sports nutrition as an intern. "I loved contributing to the athletes' holistic health and gaining insight into the unique experiences of student-athletes," she recalls.

Perseverance and Sacrifice Pays Off Benson, who graduated in 2020 with a degree in psychology, exercise, and sports science, continued to explore sports nutrition at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. "I started working at their fueling station, initially unpaid, but my dedication led to the creation of a paid position for me," she shares.

In 2022, Benson sought further academic advancement, leading her to Clemson’s Athletic Leadership Program and the University of South Carolina’s master's program in sports and entertainment marketing. This educational pursuit coincided with her

her role as a recruiting and operations coordinator for football at the University of South Carolina, a position she secured in September 2022.

A Trailblazer Provides Inspiration Benson’s inspiration in the field includes Jaelyn Shipman, her former boss at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

"She's a trailblazer, a certified sports dietician, and head dietician for Charlotte football. Her passion and authenticity, as a Black woman in sports, greatly inspire me," Benson says.

Now at Duke University, Benson focuses on onboarding the 2023 class of commits, ensuring they are settled for school and practice. Her ambition is clear: to continue in athlete development, potentially expanding to larger platforms like the NFL, while maintaining her commitment to the holistic well-being of athletes.

“In a predominantly white institution, it's crucial to have representation in the athletic department, especially in a sport with mostly Black athletes..."

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ZHOU KLEE A Leap of Faith from Missouri to the Queen City At just 25, sports producer Zhou Klee boldly moved from Cape Girardeau, MO, to Charlotte in 2022. Driven by her fervor for sports, she landed an internship with one of the nation’s top sports networks – a pivot that set her on an exciting East Coast adventure.

“Charlotte was an unexpected turn in my journey, but the opportunity with the SEC Network was too good to pass up,” Zhou shares.

Crafting the Art of Sports at ESPN Now a part of the ESPN family, Zhou is at the forefront of creating engaging sports content. She’s passionate about presenting the art of sports in a way that resonates with viewers. “Working in sports media allows me to unleash my creativity, especially with a wellknown brand like ESPN,” she explains.

Behind the scenes and on and off the field Zhou’s role has opened doors to some remarkable experiences. “One highlight was shadowing experienced producers on the set of College GameDay last

THE STYLE SECTION

It was not just an incredible learning experience but also a chance to elevate my own skills as a producer,” she reflects.

Empowering Advice for Aspiring Women With a career blossoming in a competitive field, Zhou has some wisdom to share, especially with women aiming for the stars. “Coming from a small public university, I initially feared that it might limit my opportunities. However, I learned that dedication, sacrifices, and authentic self-presentation go a long way. A positive attitude? That's the icing on the cake – it draws people to you.”

Energy, Enthusiasm, and a Crisp Resume: For those eyeing a similar career path, Zhou emphasizes the power of positive energy. “Bringing fun and enthusiasm to your work can open many doors. Also, don’t underestimate the power of a clear, concise resume.

In our field, it's easy to overdo creativity, but sometimes simplicity is key.”

Zhou Klee: A Rising Star in Sports Production In Charlotte, Zhou Klee is not just making waves; she's riding them with skill and passion. Her journey from Missouri to ESPN showcases the magic that happens when determination meets opportunity.

“I learned that dedication, sacrifices, and authentic selfpresentation go a long way. A positive attitude? That's the icing on the cake – it draws people to you.

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Charlotte GAME CHANGERS

Issue 1

Johnson C Smith Golden Bulls Women's bowling team is changing the game by increasing diversity and representation. Together they challenge the historical exclusion of black women from the sport.

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Sisterhood and Strikes Celebrating Charlotte's Black Women Bowlers The women of Johnson C. Smith University's Bowling Team are changing the game in more ways than one. Far from being a 'silent' sport, they're vocal about the unique financial and bonding opportunities that come with this recently established university team.

In 2014, JCSU launched its first women's bowling league.

Today, the team practices twice weekly, gearing up to compete against other CIAA schools. Their dedication is undeniable, and it's paying off - literally. Each team member receives a scholarship, and organizations like Black Girls Can Bowl 2 provide additional financial aid and empowerment, particularly for women of color in the sport.

Keaira Wilson-Cox: Coach with a Passion Hailing from Indianapolis, Indiana, Keaira's love for bowling was ignited by her uncle. After playing for JCSU during her undergraduate years, she returned as the coach. Keaira champions the sport's competitive spirit and inclusivity: “I like to have a variety of experiences on my team just because I want to show that it’s okay not to know everything, it’s okay to learn as you go, it’s okay to grow… it’s a sport you can always grow in.”

Amara Turner: Continuing a Legacy Meet Amara, a driven senior studying Interdisciplinary Studies with a clear vision for her future. Her career aspiration is to become an NBA Social Media Manager/Photographer for a team. However, Amara has another passion that brings her immense joy and strengthens her family bond: bowling. For the past 11 years, Amara has been an avid bowler, cherishing the sport for its ability to unite her loved ones.

Amara joined the JCSU Bowling team in 2021, which has allowed her to expand her involvement on campus and challenge herself outside of her comfort zone. Her most notable accomplishment as a JCSU bowler is achieving a 700 series.

For Amara, senior night holds a special significance, especially after experiencing the challenges of graduating high school during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the world came to a halt, Amara and her peers were met with tremendous uncertainty, including the cancellation of their graduation ceremony. Now, with a tournament set to take place from March 15-17, Amara eagerly anticipates the opportunity to celebrate her academic achievements and her love for bowling.

When asked to offer advice to women interested in

pursuing bowling, Amara confidently suggests, "Just do it and have fun!" She also encourages women to join their school bowling teams or youth leagues. Amara's passion, drive, and commitment to her goals make her a Senior with a Vision, and we look forward to witnessing her future accomplishments.

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her with that chance. Brianna's greatest achievement in her bowling career is making the CIAA preseason team the last two years in a row. Her personal record is a remarkable 299. As she approaches her last season with the JCSU Bowling team, Brianna looks forward to playing her best and making this season the best yet.

t.

Amajha Jones: Junior, the Newcomer

Briana Hudgins: Senior with a Vision

Amajha Jones is a business administration student with a finance concentration and the newest JCSU bowling team member. After graduation, she hopes to work as a credit analyst for Bank of America in New York City while still dedicating time to bowling. For Amajha, bowling is about winning, learning new techniques, making friends, and creating memories. Amajha loves the skills involved in directing the ball to where she wants it and learning from her coach and teammates the unique styles and techniques of the game.

Brianna Hudgins is a JCSU Bowling team senior majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing. As she prepares for graduation and the future, Brianna has a clear vision of what she wants to achieve. She hopes to become a marketing manager or creative director and obtain her esthetician license. Bowling-wise, Brianna aims to continue playing outside of college, joining local leagues and participating in tournaments.

Being on the bowling team has allowed her to form strong friendships and work towards goals with women who share her aspirations. Her greatest achievement was going from a beginner who could not score over 100 to scoring 168 at her last tournament. She advises other women of color interested in bowling to start!

Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to be the only black woman in the room. Do it for you!

Bowling is more than just a sport for Brianna; it's a break from reality and a connection she shares with her father, who introduced her to the game. Being on the bowling team has given her lasting friendships and the opportunity to meet people who have positively impacted her life. Brianna joined the bowling team at JCSU because she was looking for an opportunity to play at the next level, and the university provided

Funding and community engagement play a crucial role in ensuring the continued success and growth of diverse sports programs like this. By donating, you can make a direct impact in supporting these talented athletes and helping to keep their dreams alive. Consider donating by check to Johnson C Smith University made out to the women’s bowling team.

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MAHOGANY MERMAIDS

Nadine Ford is not just any Charlotte native; she's a trailblazer in the Charlotte swim scene with a career spanning almost a decade. As a Black woman adept at swimming, Ford stands out in a field where stereotypes and assumptions often prevail. Her initiative, the Mahogany Mermaids, is more than a swim club; it's a movement challenging these preconceptions in the aquatics field.

Ford's relationship with water began at the tender age of seven. Growing up surrounded by swimmers, she never developed a fear of water. Fond memories of the Double Oaks pool in her North Charlotte neighborhood are etched in her mind, a testament to her lifelong bond with swimming.

Fast forward to the present, and Ford's impact is palpable. As the assistant swim coach at West Charlotte High School, she observes a gradual but meaningful change: more Black kids in pools, more Black coaches, and even more Black officials at swim meets. However, she aspires for even greater representation.

Contradicting outdated beliefs, Mahogany Mermaids has succeeded in local and statewide meets and in empowering members with lifeguard certifications -

This success is a collective achievement bolstered

by community support and generous donations, starting with a foundational $5,000 grant from the U.S. Masters in 2018. Ford's vision extends beyond the pool. She dreams of creating a comprehensive swim facility in Charlotte, equipped with childcare, classrooms for skillbuilding, and conference spaces – a hub where "everybody's gonna know your name." This facility will offer swimming access and foster a sense of community and cultural connection.

Ford's mission is clear – cultivating an inclusive and diverse swimming environment while educating members about Black history in swimming. It's a mission that transcends sport, aiming to provide resources and exposure to ensure that Black swimmers’ legacy continues and thrives.

With Mahogany Mermaids, Nadine Ford is creating ripples that will grow into waves, offering unprecedented swimming access for children and adults in Charlotte. It's a journey of breaking stereotypes, embracing history, and opening doors to new opportunities in the world of swimming To learn more about Mahogany Mermaids, visit their website at www.evolutionaryaquatics.org

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Book appointments at:

www.dbdsalon.com

440 E. McCullough Dr. Suite 215 Charlotte, NC 28262 980-224-7422

ELLE WILSON'S

Ultimate Christmas House!

A SNEAK PEEK

Get ready to deck the halls in style!

Elle Wilson, the creative genius behind Elle and Co. Event Designer & Rentals, has done it again with her latest project: the Ultimate Christmas House. With her signature flair for holiday home styling, Elle has transformed this house into a winter wonderland that will even make Santa jealous!

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THE WOW FACTOR The exterior Christmas decor of the Charlotte mansion is truly breathtaking. As you approach the front door, you are greeted by two 7-foot nutcrackers that stand guard at the porch's entryway. Two Christmas trees, beautifully decorated with red and gold ornaments, twinkle in the front windows; beneath them, a pile of presents awaits. The outside door is adorned with a magnificent red and gold wreath and garland, custom-made and attached to the door frame. The garland is perfectly accented with flat topiary trees, adding to the grandeur of the display. While some clients may prefer a more natural greenery, this client clearly wanted a wow factor and they got it. The entire display is a work of art.

Merry & Bright

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THE MACK DADDY OF TREE Starting in the library, Elle sets the tone with what she calls the "Mack Daddy of Trees.” The 15-foot tree is a a beautiful statement piece that will make your jaw drop. This year's color the scheme features navy, gold, and white, creating a unique and elegant design. Each room in the house has its own special touch, curated to the client's tastes.

THE MORNING ROOM Elle takes us to a stunning morning room that reflects both her and her client's personalities. The room features a subtle glam vibe with on-trend colors such as sage and mossy green, and intricate details make the room pop. Two 12-foot trees in crate and barrel planters have been placed in the room, following the TikTok trend of planting Christmas trees. One unique aspect of Elle's decorating style is her custom tree toppers, which have been carefully curated for each tree in the home.

In this room, feather elements and sparkly ornament picks have been used to create a one-of-a-kind topper that will impress.

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CREATING HOLIDAY MEMORIES Creating Holiday Memories For Elle, it's not just about the decorations. It's about creating a space where families can make memories that will last a lifetime. As an event designer and planner, Elle takes pride in bringing her client's visions to life and creating unforgettable experiences. With over five and a half years of experience, Elle and her team at Elle and Co Event Designer Rentals deliver amazing results that will leave you speechless.

LOOKING AHEAD So, if you want to create an Instagram or Pinterest-worthy holiday home, be sure to book with Elle and Co. Event Designer Rentals. Follow them on social media at @elleandco.charlotte, and stay tuned for their upcoming rebranding in January!

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THE INSPIRING STORY OF

KATINA FOSTER:

FROM GRIEF TO SUCCESS

Katina Foster, a dynamic entrepreneur, is at the helm of Pure Luxury Beauty Studio, a gem in Charlotte, North Carolina. Foster brought her vision to life three years ago, crafting a salon reminiscent of a dollhouse, adorned with pink and gold hues and captivating flower walls designed for Instagrammable selfies. Her goal is simple yet profound: to make every client feel glamorous, pretty, and flirty. Boasting an impressive three-decade tenure in the beauty industry, Foster's skill and knowledge are exceptional. She is a selfmade professional with a unique talent for building rapport with her clientele.

In 2020, Foster faced a personal tragedy with the loss of her eldest daughter. Channeling her sorrow into her salon, she found solace and strength in her work, and online. Sharing her own experience with grief while also trying to stay positive resonated with viewers, landing her with an

impressive following of over 330,000 on Facebook, 1.2 million on TikTok and 360,000 on Instagram. What started as a therapeutic escape from her grief has flourished into a thriving online business platform.

Flash forward to now, Foster’s salon stands out for its microlink hair extensions’ longevity and competitive pricing, distinguishing itself from other salons and hair businesses.

Foster has also created her own line of beauty products, including hair care essentials, skincare items, and body shapers. Her business ethos encompasses beauty, body, and brains, focusing on education and consultancy. While she anticipates stepping away from the business in the near future, Foster's legacy in the beauty industry, on social media, and her entrepreneurial spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire many.

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MFLEUR

THE ULTIMATE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

Reena Bhardwaj, the creative force behind Mfleur, has beautifully morphed her love for distinctive and enduring blooms into a successful venture. At the heart of Mfleur are real roses, enchanting in their one to three years of longevity, courtesy of a hypoallergenic, non-toxic preservation technique. These roses are tender to the touch and ideal for allergy-prone individuals. Uniquely, Mfleur is the US's sole provider of these premium flowers.

Mfleur's home is a 2,800-square-foot warehouse in Concord, a treasure trove of over 32 flower colors. This range includes skillfully hand-painted roses, elegant blacks, and a spectrum of pinks and golds. Each flower is a personal statement, presented in boxes that can be tailored with names in any language. This enterprise marks Reena's bold shift from a 30year tenure in corporate America to pursuing her dream of offering a special, lasting product.

Reena's dedication to her craft is evident in her promise to customers: “If it's not good enough for me, it's not gonna be good enough for you or anybody you're gifting to." Mfleur caters to both wholesale and retail markets, maintaining affordable pricing throughout and beyond the COVID era.

Reena's vision is to present a unique, durable gift that delights both the giver and the receiver. Mfleur is the destination for anyone searching for a gift that transcends the ordinary.

Reena is committed to respecting customers' budgets and color preferences without any pressure of upselling.

“We're gonna make sure you're happy and your recipient is happy," she asserts.

And with shipping across the United States, these stunning, long-lasting roses are available for everyone to cherish.

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