Welcome to this year’s issue of Faces of the Upstate
We are delighted to again celebrate the businesses that make our region special — from one-of-a-kind local retailers to trusted service providers to our beloved arts venues. Their stories are your stories — reflecting hard work, passion, and the connections that bind us.
This issue shines a renewed spotlight on our local gems, and we’re proud to bring their voices to the pages of Faces of the Upstate. Thank you for being part of this celebration of community. Together, we’re building something real, meaningful, and uniquely ours.
Mark B. Johnston President and CEO Community Journals
FACES OF THE UPSTATE
Faces of the Upstate highlights the local people and businesses that make the Upstate of South Carolina great. To learn more or to advertise, please call 864-679-1200.
MARK B. JOHNSTON CEO and Publisher
SHERRY JACKSON COO and VP, Content
MARGARET LOUV Controller
ALLEN PRUITT VP, Operations
CLAIRE BILLINGSLEY Managing Editor
LAURA ALLHOUSE Creative Director
KRISTY M. ADAIR Director, Creative and Design, Custom Publishing
AMANDA CAPPS, JOHN JETER, MORGAN McCALLUM Contributing Writers
DONNA JOHNSTON Major Accounts, Business Development
Media Executives
PAUL J. CALLAHAN, M YA COLUMBUS, FRANCIS GRESHAM, DUNCAN TREVATHAN
SANGEETA HARDY Strategic Mkt Manager/Digital
JOHN OLSON Digital Content Manager
CHRIS LEE Digital Content Specialist
FACES OF THE UPSTATE
PHILPOT
Henry Philpot founded the Philpot Law Firm 35 years ago. Today, the second and third generations of Philpot attorneys — Irv, Eric, Liz and grandson Bo — continue to practice personal injury law, consistently rooted in their patriarch’s vision for a valuesdriven family enterprise.
The firm’s only attorneys are Philpots, and each one treats every client like family, too.
“That allows us to work with people who share our passion for justice,” Irv Philpot says, while Eric Philpot adds, “We fight for our clients like they’re family. We provide legal excellence and attorney involvement from start to finish.”
Bo Philpot finds being part of a family business deeply rewarding.
“You know that the fruits of your labor benefits not only you but your extended family,” he says, “and it further creates the opportunity and foundation to build a legacy for future generations to come.”
As Liz Philpot sums things up: “We practice with a servant attitude of compassionate care.”
Pictured L-R: Irv Philpot, Bo Philpot, Liz Philpot and Eric Philpot.
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
BRITTON BRILEY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Ghost Brands doesn’t chase the spotlight unless it’s to grab an award (or five). But as a creative branding agency, there’s a good reason. Ready to spook the traditional industry paradigm, Ghost works hand in hand behind the scenes with some of the Upstate’s best known faces: City of Simpsonville, HipBurger, Spinx, Hub City Spartanburgers and around 43 more across 12 states. So, pay no attention to the ghosts behind the curtain — unless you’re ready to thrive.
“We’re the agency of choice for advertising, media buying and branding, but we’re the name you’ve probably never seen,” says founder and CEO Britton Briley, whose visionary leadership has been instrumental in the agency’s swift growth and success across the Southeast.
“We’re not here to beat our own chest; our team walks, talks and operates as part of your team. It’s rewarding to bring unexpected solutions that let our partners shine and generate real results, while being transparent in our approach — thus the name, Ghost.”
DRS. JOSEPH AND FRANCESCO LATERZA FOUNDING PHYSICIANS
Drs. Joseph and Francesco Laterza feel completely welcome in the Upstate, and they extend that welcome to patients from all walks of life. Joseph Laterza, a Navy veteran board certified in family medicine, and Francesco Laterza, who’s board certified in internal medicine, found their calling in aesthetics, often caring for LGBT patients. They curate customized treatment plans that may include injectables, lasers or measures to promote sexual health.
“We care deeply about marginalized communities and blending something that matters to us personally with our business,” Joseph Laterza says.
Offering services such as the nonsurgical triLift facelift, the Laterzas value effective, medically sound technology over trends, and they’re transparent about pricing.
“We focus on patients above profits,” Francesco Laterza says.
The Laterzas’ medical training took them to various states, but they’re investing in their new hometown, Greenville, where they reside with their 3-year-old daughter; construction begins on a new office at Unity Park in August.
1607 Laurens Road, Suite 104
864.696.2234
LaterzaMD.com
by
Photo
Eli Warren
Photo provided.
Real Estate is known for its highly transactional nature, but BrownStone Real Estate is focused on transformation and building community. Every agent believes in the power to transform a house into a home, a sale into an investment, or a client into a friend.
This tuned-in, personal and proactive approach to serving others is a reflection of the ethos of the brokerage, where “the difference is in the details.” For founding cousins Rhett Brown and Kirby Stone, keeping clients at the center of every decision is in their DNA as fourthgeneration real estate professionals.
“We have a group of incredibly talented women with strengths that extend far beyond the real estate business,” says Brown, who is the broker-in-charge.
“From our agents to our support network and subcontractors, we operate like a family. We owe our success to a level of collaboration that ensures every process is as smooth as possible.”
The BrownStone Real Estate firm makes transformation its mission all year long.
If asked what they do, William and Matt Jackson will likely say “solve problems.” The Jackson family, now second-generation owners of Instel Power Products, brings decades of experience keeping electrical systems operational and improving efficiency.
With a vast parts inventory, Instel’s expert technicians often understand more about vintage equipment and components than the manufacturers.
“We’ve seen it all, and we aim to set the industry standard for knowledge, reliability and customer-centric service,” William Jackson says.
Providing electrical testing and maintenance for industrial and commercial customers since 1967, Instel has an onsite-services field trailer that serves as a workshop on wheels, and a team trained specifically for electrical repairs. In the face of unexpected challenges, they’re there in a moment’s notice, minimizing downtime.
“Instel has always been about showing up when it matters most,” Matt Jackson says. “We proudly carry on the values established by our father, Stuart, from delivering reliable solutions to building customer relationships.”
Photo by Chelsey Ashford Photography
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
BARBARA MCGRATH FOUNDER
Saint Joseph’s Catholic School opened its doors in 1993 to 13 students. As one of the school’s nine founders and longtime admissions director, Barbara McGrath faced a seemingly insurmountable roadblock when considering a move to Greenville in 1989.
“There wasn’t a Catholic high school here at the time. I am the product of 16 years of Catholic education, and I knew the gift my parents had given to me,” Barbara says. “I couldn’t imagine not giving this same gift to my daughters.”
Barbara agreed to the move, but only after her husband, Doug, suggested that she search out like-minded people to see about getting the school started.
Today, enrollment at one of the state’s top high schools tops 600 students.
“Saint Joseph’s changes lives — I’ve seen it happen again and again,” she says. “Yes, we offer a great education, but more importantly, we aspire to prepare our students to lead great lives.”
Saint Joseph’s newest building, The Founders Saint Joseph’s Way Center, opening Fall 2025.
AMANDA BENNETT OWNER
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
by Jack Robert Photography
For three generations, Bennetts’ Frame & Art Gallery has made a beautiful impact on the Upstate and beyond. From portraits on the wall of countless family homes to priceless artwork in the Grand Bohemian and stunning framed collections in office buildings everywhere, the family-owned company has grown to serve the country without compromising on the deeply personal service, hospitality and expertise that they were founded on in 1975. “We encourage clients to frame for the artwork and not necessarily the room,” says owner Amanda Bennett, who recognizes that high-quality framing is a luxury, and therefore an investment deserving of lasting craftsmanship. “When you custom frame something correctly, you’ll never need to reframe it.” With decades of combined experience, the team at Bennetts’ can recommend the perfect design for your needs — or bring a specific vision to life. “If you want an orange and purple frame, we can do that,” smiles Bennett. As the company celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, they look forward to building more relationships with all who share a passion for craftsmanship and art.
Photo
UPLAND HOMES LUXURY RENOVATIONS AND CUSTOM HOMES
For the team at Upland Homes, the experience of building your dream house should be as remarkable as the final result — from the first blueprint to the final touches. “Communication with our clients is a top priority,” says Katherine Hazlewood, managing director. “Transparency is key to building trust, and we want you to feel confident knowing that every detail is thought through, and there are no surprises as we go along.” With more than 20 years of expertise, Upland Homes brings this proactive, collaborative approach to every custom house it builds — from ultramodern and refined rustic to the clean lines of a classic, more contemporary style.
“This is such a uniquely beautiful area of the country,” adds Hazlewood, with a nod to the striking scenic nature of the mountain and lake communities where her team has earned a stellar reputation for oneof-a-kind homes. “Our clients come here — and to us — to build an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of bigger cities, and we’re proud to work closely with incredible tradespeople, architects and designers to transform your vision into reality.”
145 Thomas Green Blvd. Clemson 864.646.7660
BuildUpland.com
From left: Christan Neal, Miranda Smith, J. Allen Barlow, Katherine Hazlewood, Ashton Craig-Parlier
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Photo
Chelsey Ashford Photography
DR. DANIEL FRIED RADIATION ONCOLOGIST
When Alan Harry went to an urgent care to be treated for COVID-19, the doctor discovered a swollen lymph node. Harry was later diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma and prostate cancer.
Soon after, Dr. Daniel Fried, a radiation oncologist at Gibbs Cancer Center at Pelham, worked alongside a team of providers to develop a treatment plan using CyberKnife M6’s precise radiation therapy to target the tumors and minimize damage to surrounding tissue.
“It wasn’t painful,” Harry said. “I didn’t get sick or lose my hair, but it did its job.”
Almost three years post-treatment, Harry remains cancer free.
“Dr. Fried is one of the ‘A’ students,” Harry said. “Anybody living in this area and facing cancer, go see Dr. Fried.”
2759 S. Highway 14 Greer
864.530.6400
GibbsCancerCenter.com
provided.
Photo
Photo by Chelsey Ashford
JOHN UPRICHARD CEO
Find Great People. Grow great people. Build great companies.
That’s what the team at FGP does each day — impacting lives in Greenville and beyond.
“This is a relationship business,” says John Uprichard, CEO of FGP. “There’s nothing more powerful in someone’s life than stable employment or career growth.”
The company’s core values revolve around “3 Gs”: Commitment to greatness, growth mindset and endless spirit of gratitude. People who work with FGP experience their team through these lenses.
After more than four decades serving clients and candidates nationwide, FGP’s services have evolved to include executive search, staffing, and HR consulting across many diverse specialty areas and industries.
“One thing that I love about our business is that it doesn’t matter what you do or the size of the company you work with. We are here to help you build a great company,” he says.
From left: John Uprichard, Vicki Peek, and Tee Hooper
ADAM HAYES & KRISTINA MU RPHY OWNERS
On Mother’s Day, Larkin’s Restaurants — which include Limoncello, Grill Marks and Larkin’s Catering & Events — served approximately 2,500 guests. Jumping in to meet demand, owners Kristina Murphy and Adam Hayes worked in the kitchen from brunch through dinner.
“I’m a hot-pan line cook at heart,” Hayes says. “It’s nice to know if we’re needed, we can still do it.”
With extensive experience in the industry, one thing Murphy and Hayes do extremely well is adapt.
“This business has its hurdles, and trends and eating styles are always changing,” Hayes says.
Murphy is the chief operating officer, and Hayes is the chief financial officer. Both owners credit founders Larkin and Mark Hammond for the vision that led to Larkin’s on the River in 2005.
Now with 300 employees and eight properties, Murphy says, “Good food is important, but that doesn’t cover it all. We have a passion for hospitality, and we want everyone to enjoy that and keep supporting local restaurants.”
32 E. Broad St.
864.467.9777
LarkinsGvl.com
by
Photo
Jack Robert Photography
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
REBECCA KINCAID OWNER
Rebecca Kincaid wrote a book called “No One Owes You Anything: How to Look Out for Yourself in Retirement,” but many families are happy she’s looking out for them. Covering coordination of income, long-term care, efficient tax strategies, advanced legacy planning, and risk management, she maps a “CLEAR” path for clients’ unique goals.
Kincaid paid for college by working at a property and casualty company. She laughs about her initial motivation for earning her “P&C” license: a 50-centper-hour raise. Later, she helped hundreds of professionals grow their practices through Tarkenton Financial, founded by Pro Football Hall of Famer Fran Tarkenton.
Ninety-five percent of Kincaid’s business comes from referrals, and the “Kincaid family” often gathers for events from wine-tastings to baseball games. “Passion’ isn’t a strong enough word for my feelings about getting people to a place where they’re peaceful about their future,” she says. “There’s no price tag on that.”
9 Caledon Court, Suite B Greenville
864.501.3415
KincaidWealth.com
BANNISTER, WYATT & STALVEY
PERSONAL INJURY PRACTICE GROUP
In the aftermath of a catastrophic accident, many people turn to Google or ChatGPT for a legal referral. But here’s a secret: the best attorneys aren’t the ones with the highest rankings.
“Great lawyers don’t just show up on billboards or Google,” says Alex Stalvey, partner and leader of the personal injury team at Bannister, Wyatt & Stalvey. “They earn trust, deliver results and build meaningful relationships with their clients.”
Since 1976, the firm has provided personalized, high-quality legal support in criminal, family, real estate law, and business and civil litigation, earning a five-star reputation. That commitment to quality and personal attention has guided Alex and his team in growing a personal injury practice on experience, not volume.
“Unfortunately, accidents happen, some with devastating consequences,” Stalvey says. “We support people during their most difficult moments and help them find a path forward. We believe the journey to a positive result is just as important as the destination.”
24 Cleveland St., Suite 100
864.867.0600
Pictured, from left: Ryan Pasquini, Attorney; Tiffany McKinney, Paralegal; Alex Stalvey, Partner.
by
Photo
Chelsey Ashford Photography
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
While others talk about business models, Crescent Wealth Management’s team squarely focuses on its clients. The language is as distinctive as the client collaboration. Expertise is a given, but listening skills and flexibility also greatly matter. “We approach everyone with humility, empathy and gratitude,” Managing Director Emory Hendrix says. Portfolios under Crescent’s care are typically valued at $3 million-$30 million; however, they serve only about 100 families. “We’re committed to serving and growing with care and capacity,” Financial Advisor Kent Brace says.
RUSH WILSON LIMITED
JAY AND RUSH WILSON
Rush Wilson Limited, the Upstate’s most trusted men’s clothing boutique, is celebrating a remarkable anniversary: 75 years of iconic style, enduring quality and personalized service from sought-after experts. “We love when our customers realize how good they look and feel in well-made, well-fitted clothing,” says Rush Wilson. Family-owned and operated for three generations, the award-winning boutique offers fresh seasonal selections and timeless collections, as well as custom tailoring and wardrobe consultation services that give clients confidence and satisfaction across all of life’s milestones.
23 W. North St. Greenville 864.232.2761 RushWilson.com
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
ROBINSON FUNERAL HOMES
ANNA AND CHRIS ROBINSON
by Will
Serving families when they have lost a loved one is a calling that has touched lives across the Upstate for 150 years of our family-owned business.
“We’ve been blessed to have had so many families place their trust in us,” says Chris Robinson, president of Robinson Funeral Homes, now joined by his daughter, Anna Robinson, the fifth generation. “We are so fortunate to have an outstanding, detail-oriented team. Robinson offers funeral, burial and cremation services with four beautiful facilities, as well as its event venue, South & West, for hosting memorable celebrations.”
Downtown Easley
864.859.4001
Powdersville Road
864.442.1800
Central-Clemson Commons
Robinson Memorial Gardens
South & West
864.859.3030
864.639.2411 & 864.654.4495
864.855.8008
Photo
Crooks
REBECCA MADDOX &
DEANA
ZAEHLER
CEO & CLIENT ACCOUNT SPECIALIST
The Phoenix Center, Greenville’s local provider of substance-use-disorder treatment, is a recovery-friendly workplace. Now studying social work, Client Account Specialist Deana Zaehler once lived at Serenity Place, Phoenix Center’s residential treatment center for women. “Working at the place that saved my life gives me opportunity to spread hope to others,” she says. Phoenix Center partners with SC Works and others to find meaningful employment for clients. CEO Rebecca Maddox notes, “Families aren’t fully healed without the support to be successful.”
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
by
Photo
Will Crooks
Only four directors have served Greenville Theatre through this year’s centennial anniversary. Max Quinlan currently leads the Upstate’s oldest and largest locally producing nonprofit theater: “Creating theater made by Greenville, for Greenville.” Six seasonal main-stage offerings include blockbusters from “Shrek” to “Steel Magnolias.” Quinlan experiences fulfillment from “connecting with the community of theater supporters in the Upstate. Art is about the people you make it with and the impact it can have on the people you make it for.”
Photo by Will Crooks
JORDAN LUMBER CO.
KEITH JORDAN, BEN GREENE, & DAVID SWEENY
by
Somewhere in Greenville, there’s almost certainly an individual who learned to take his or her first steps on a hardwood floor installed by Jordan Lumber Co. That’s because the company has been dedicated to hardwood flooring — and only hardwood flooring — since 1934. Family-owned and operated for over three generations, Jordan Lumber Co. has thrived through changing styles and trends, owing to its insistence on quality craftsmanship and a commitment to the details.
Photo
Jack Robert Photography
REBECCA & BRYAN FELDMAN OWNERS
During his college years at the University of South Carolina, Bryan Feldman actually was one of the men on the truck. Today, he and his wife Rebecca own 13 Two Men and a Truck franchises with 20 trucks and 50 movers-drivers in Greenville. Serving residential and commercial customers, the company can handle all aspects of a local or cross-country move — and for small jobs, there’s one man and a van. In any case, they lighten the load on moving day.
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
by Jack Robert Photography
Step into a Lee & Associates Greenville or Spartanburg office and you’d never know the broker-owned commercial real estate firm belongs to a vast, resources-rich North American network. “Our brokers don’t just work in the Upstate; they live here, raise families here and have long-standing relationships with local leadership and developers,” says Kim Collier, Greenville marketing manager. “We know what’s happening on the I-85 corridor before the signs go up. We anticipate trends because we help shape them.”
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KATIE O’KELLY CEO
South Carolina Children’s Theatre empowers and inspires a new generation of changemakers through theatre, helping children become lifelong arts lovers. “Community and creativity take center stage at SCCT,” says CEO Katie O’Kelly. “Allowing space for kids to have empathy, courage and an open mind — that’s what being a changemaker is all about.” As the state’s largest children’s theatre, SCCT hosts camps, classes and residencies, and produces nine shows each season, delighting multigenerational audiences year after year.
Photo by Will Crooks
ROLLING GREEN VILLAGE
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Rolling Green Village is more than a retirement community — it’s a vibrant village where nearly 700 residents live like extended family. “They’re enhancing each other’s lives in ways you may not find in a typical neighborhood,” says Executive Director Ryan Toerner. Backed by nearly 300 employees, it’s the area’s largest life-plan community, built on genuine connection. “Relationships empower us to understand what matters most and keep improving life here,” adds Marketing Director Lexie Jones.
6 Hoke Smith Blvd. Greenville
864.987.4618
RollingGreenVillage.com
Photo
Chelsey Ashford
Photography
STEPHANIE SZKOLNICKI OWNER
One conversation with Stephanie Szkolnicki indicates she’s not your everyday landscaper. From a simple raised bed to a large yard, her work is transforming urban and suburban properties and lifestyles. Trained in horticulture and permaculture, Stephanie begins with a consultation and follows with design and implementation. The Southern Garden Solutions crew can then handle management, or clients can opt for coaching. “We create systems that feed themselves and can feed you too,” she says.
Photo by CWill Crooks
HEATHER HILES MANAGER
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Thanks to an extremely thorough, ever-changing website, customers always know what’s new at Carolina Consignment. With more than 7,000 consignors supplying top-quality furniture and accessories for home and office, it’s been a local favorite for 15 years. “People tell me they start the day with morning coffee and our site,” says manager Heather Hiles. Online, you’ll find prices and dimensions of each piece in the 8,000 square-foot showroom, and Carolina Consignment’s crew is happy to pick up and deliver.
Photo
Jack Robert Photography
SPENCER
ELLIOTT & TIM MCCONNELL CHIEF PILOT/PARTNER & PRESIDENT/CEO
DoubleDay Aviation lets you take to the skies whenever you want, for work or fun. Tim McConnell started DoubleDay at Greenville Downtown Airport in 2017, chartering the most advanced private aircraft in general aviation. “We help our clients spend less time traveling and more time doing what matters — to ‘double’ their day, business or pleasure,” the president/CEO says. As Spencer Elliott, chief pilot and McConnell’s business partner, says: “Many people don’t realize the freedom of private aviation is within reach.”
Photo by Will Crooks
CAROLINA FURNITURE & INTERIORS DESIGN TEAM
by Will
Serving the Upstate for nearly 50 years, Carolina Furniture & Interiors continues to offer quality high-end home furnishings and accessories, along with full design services. With new arrivals daily, our fully decorated 25,000 square foot showroom will leave customers inspired. Owners Linda Dickens and Will Dickens are proud to serve the Upstate with simply, “The best collection of home furnishings in the Upstate.”
Photo
Crooks
LIFESTYLES TEAM
In April 2023, after much thought and preparation, Lifestyles of Carolina Furniture & Interiors launched a new location. Within our 10,000 square foot, fully decorated showroom, you will find a complete line of high-end, casual indoor and outdoor furnishings and accessories. Owner Will Dickens says, “As Greenville continues to grow, we wanted to expand as well, offering more high-end choices to our community.”
Photo by Will Crooks
MATT JACKSON
Meet Matt The Driveway Guy, one of the Upstate’s fastest-growing pressure-washing companies, known for high-energy service, bold branding, and unbeatable results. “In just a few years, we’ve expanded from residential into commercial, earning our reputation as one of Greenville’s top exterior-cleaning teams,” Matt says. “From concrete to rooftops, we bring serious shine with serious hustle.” The crew got even stronger with the newest (and cutest) team member, Banks, Matt’s 1-year-old son and future driveway pro in training.
Photo by Will Crooks
HEATHER SIFFRI OWNER
With extensive experience in aesthetics, nurse Heather Siffri brings a deep understanding of the aging process and facial anatomy to her practice. Her individualized treatment plans align with clients’ unique concerns and long-term maintenance goals. Initial recommendations often include laser treatments for sun damage and medical-grade skin care. “Injectables aren’t effective if the skin isn’t healthy,” she explains.
“I assess the whole face to ensure balanced, natural looking results. The outcome is a refreshed and youthful version of yourself.”
Photo by Chelsey Ashford Photography
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The inspiring growth trajectory of boutique Toates Law Firm reflects highly personalized legal services from a high-caliber team, and the unwavering values of attorney and founder Annah Toates. “We’re incredibly grateful to do the work we do — stewarding our clients’ emotions and finances through important milestones,” says Toates, who recently opened a stunning, downtown Greenville location. “We succeed because we prioritize the success of our clients. We’ve created a firm that emphasizes competence and character, and the results have been notably different.”
Photo
Chelsey Ashford
Photography
D’ANDREA FAMILY OWNERS
Stanley Steemer has been the leader in cleaning home and office carpeting and upholstery since 1947. Now, Allen D’Andrea’s three franchises in Greenville and the Carolinas also specialize in helping you breathe easier. Allen and his wife, Sarah, are thrilled about their family-owned business’s duct-cleaning offerings, with National Air Duct Cleaners Association-certified technicians operating proprietary equipment. “What I love most about my job is taking care of our people,” he says. “If they’re happy, they’ll take care of our customers.”
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
RICK ERWIN OWNER, FOUNDER
Rick Erwin became a Greenville fixture the day he opened Rick Erwin’s West End Grille 20 years ago in the then-dicey West End. “I had a vision Greenville was going to be an incredible growth town,” says Erwin, whose eponymous dining group now operates six restaurants, with a new concept opening this fall. The centerpiece “Crab Cakes for a Cause” has donated some $70,000 to local charities, while continuing the tradition, he says, “to provide that memorable dining experience.”
Rick Erwin Dining Group
712 N Main St. Greenville
864.546.3537
RickErwins.com
by Jack Robert Photography
Photo
JOSEPH AND TIM THOMPSON OWNERS
Joseph and Tim Thompson are celebrating “15 Years of Fear” this year. In 2011, the brothers opened Madworld Haunted Attractions as the most thrilling and scariest adventure in the Upstate. Today, Madworld is recognized as one of America’s top haunted attractions. Madworld’s season runs September through November, but the business operates year-round. Madworld also includes a gift shop, carnival games, mini golf, axthrowing, zombie shoots and more. “Madworld,” Joseph Thompson says, “provides fun, interactive excitement unlike any other place around.”
Photo by Will Crooks
MIGNON BORCHERT
OWNER
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Mignon Borchert of Garrison Opticians is already known for her inimitable style and outstanding service. As the new owner of the business, which was established in 1974, her goals include keeping the inventory varied and fresh. Garrison Opticians provides premium eyewear for both fashion-focused and active lifestyle clients, and she tailors each fitting to the client, selecting the right size and brand for them. “Our aim is for you to see and look your best,” she says.
Photo
Will Crooks
LAURA NICHOLAS EXECUTIVE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Centre Stage’s thrust stage — with seating on three sides — draws audiences into the action, creating an intimate experience. “Anything we put on is, by nature of the space, going to be unique,” says Executive Artistic Director Laura Nicholas. Their second facility on Laurens Road, pictured here, supports rehearsals, set construction, and community programs. Centre Stage’s genre-defying seasons include bold classics, hidden gems, and new works through the New Play Festival. “I love shaping the stories we tell and how we tell them,” Nicholas adds.
Photo by Will Crooks
SARAH DUBOSE CO-OWNER
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After nearly two decades in healthcare, Sarah Dubose took time to smell the flowers. She began volunteering at an urban farm owned by her future husband George; they’ve since transitioned from a small piece of leased land to acres of their own where guests come just to pick flowers or to celebrate special occasions. Sassafrass also hosts events with food trucks and live music. “It’s different than snagging a bouquet somewhere,” she says. “Picking flowers makes the experience.”
Photo
Eli Warren
The arrival of CCRM Fertility of Greenville brings world-class fertility care to families all across the Upstate. CCRM is a leader in reproductive health with a proven track record of success. The new Greenville clinic is led by acclaimed physicians Drs. Creighton E. Likes III and Rachel M. Beverley, who believe that no two fertility journeys are alike. “The exceptional research, lab quality and attention to detail sets us apart from most fertility centers,” says Dr. Likes III. “We are dedicated to providing top-tier care and look forward to sharing that experience with our patients.” DR.
700 Executive Center Drive, Ste. 300, Greenville | ccrmivf.com
Photo by Jack Robert Photography
MICHAEL FERNANDEZ FOUNDER – CEO
As Alpha Equity Group’s founder, Michael Fernandez draws on the teamwork he learned at The Citadel, his longtime real estate experience in his native Greenville and his work at a multibillion-dollar investment-asset management firm. Since opening in 2021, his company has already sprinted beyond $100 million in private residential real estate transactions for select investors. Fernandez lauds his team for delivering “safety-first investments” and unmatched transparency for “our close-knit family of existing relationships or referrals from trusted partners.”
Photo by
Chelsey Ashford Photography
MICHAEL FERNANDEZ CEO
BlueSky Builders provides what few other high-end homebuilders offer: the perfect blend of quality craftsmanship, privacy and convenience. The year-old homebuilder has already sold semicustom homes priced from $1 million on 5-plus-acre homesites in four neighborhoods — all within 40 minutes of downtown Greenville and close to charming small towns. “We specialize in intentional, timeless design and functionality with our signature specs,” says Gabby Howard, sales director. “We wanted to create a company to fill a gap in the market.”
Photo by Chelsey Ashford Photography
DR. GEORGE IBRAHIM OWNER
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Dr. George Ibrahim launched Biltmore Restorative Medicine & Aesthetics in Asheville, North Carolina, in 2012, when multiple sclerosis ended his urology career. Last year, he expanded to Greenville, offering hormonal treatment, aesthetics and sexual wellness. While most spas cater to 96% women, his serves 40% men, as significant hormonal shifts affect everyone, he explains. “Hormones don’t go down because you get older; you age because your hormone levels go down,” he says. “We help people live better, look better and love better.”
