Hickorylivingjune17online

Complimentary June 2017

Living the Good Life

Where the Experts Are HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

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from the publisher

LIVI NG

Welcome to the June issue.

Congratulations to the graduates of 2017! By now you have heard graduation speeches about how you are supposed to go forth and carve your niche into the world. Go forward with confidence knowing that whatever the future holds, you are well equipped to handle it. We at Hickory Living Magazine are proud of you and wish you great success in all your future pursuits! As an old Irish proverb says, “May the wind always be at your back, and the sun always upon your face.”

Hickory

LIVING Mailing Address - P.O. Box 57 Harmony, NC 28634 (704) 546-5511 E-mail - HickoryLiving@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kristie Darling • Meredith Collins Kathy Wheeler • Jennifer Krawiec

We are thankful to have so many wonderful, highly respected men in our area who serve as excellent role models and great dads! Sometimes you give advice, help repair things around the house, handle grilling duties for the family cookout, or perhaps lend an ear or offer a kind word of comfort in a stressful situation. Thank you, dads, for all you do!

Until next month, Happy Father’s Day, and thank you for reading the June issue of Hickory Living Magazine!

June 2017

Living the Good Life

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Shane Greene Photography COVER STORY Realty Executives Editorial Stock photography, unless otherwise noted, is from iStock.

Find Hickory Living Magazine on Facebook. http://twitter.com/HickoryLiving

Myron T. Gough Publisher, Hickory Living

WWW.HICKORYLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM • WWW.HICKORYLIVINGTODAY.COM Myron T. Gough Publisher/Founder

Kathy Wheeler Marketing & Design

Don Forrest Business Development

myronlivingmagazine@gmail.com (704) 546-5511

kathylivingmagazine@gmail.com (828) 238-3224

donlivingmagazine@gmail.com (828) 244-6538

Linda B. Wilson Advertising Sales

Bob Church Advertising Sales

Ryan Pegarsch Advertising Sales

lindalivingmagazine@gmail.com (704) 657-0237

Ashley Stevenson Digital Editor

conradchurch@gmail.com (336) 686-7271

ryanlivingmagazine@gmail.com (704) 307-3912

Hickory Living reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing. Submissions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Hickory Living assumes no responsibility or liability for the information, services, products, claims, statements, accuracy, or

ashley@highprofilemarketing.today intended or unintended results of any advertiser, editorial contributors, company, professional corporation, business or service provider herein this publication. All rights reserved. Reproduction (704) 902-5418

in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

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content

LIVI NG

June 2017

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23

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• Happy Father’s Day!

12

• Realty Executives

18

• Prodigy Voice And Data

23

• What’s Cooking?!

26

• June Events

28

• Planning Your Big Day!

Where The Experts Are

Trusted Advisors In Business IT And Telecommunications

Honey Barbecue Burgers

18

family | food | entertainment | local business 6

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Happy Father’s Day!

By Jennifer Krawiec

©iStockphoto.com | solevnikola

He taught you to ride a bike and gives you horrible relationship advice. He sang off-key in the car, embarrassing you in front of your friends. He loves you unconditionally and always has your back. Whether he is your biological father or your step dad, an uncle or other father figure, more than anything he will appreciate you thinking of him on Father’s Day. Father’s Day originated in Christianity, with Europeans celebrating St. Joseph’s feast day in March. It is celebrated in some form, on varying days, all over the world. In the United States, the holiday was reportedly suggested as a complement to Mother’s Day, years after moms were already getting their due.

For more than a century, Father’s Day has been the third Sunday of June. So why do you subject yourself to that annual, last-minute scramble for the perfect gift? Maybe your dad has simple needs that don’t make for exciting gifts.

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

Or maybe he tells you that he doesn’t need anything at all, the least helpful of gift suggestions. Maybe his “hobbies” include watching ESPN, walking the dog, and yelling at the squirrels from his back deck—none of which require gift cards.

The trick to being a good gift-giver is creativity. This does not mean Dad wants a homemade gift from his adult child; your finger-painting days are over. Use your imagination to come up with a unique gift idea. You know that your dad, grandfather, uncle, and all the other men in your life each have plenty of golf shirts, so think outside the big-box store. Instead, look for a magazine subscription supporting one of his activities or hobbies. If he holds the self-proclaimed title of Grill Master of the House, pick up an accessory to aid his endeavor, like a rotisserie spit, long-handled spatula, or fish basket. A couple of tickets to watch his favorite team in action would make your sports fan’s day.

If you are a hands-on person, jump in and give your dad some help around the house. If he is a project-starter, but not a project-finisher, this may be especially needed. You get the pleasure of spending time together, he gets to complete an unfinished task, and Mom will likely appreciate the closure.

If there are outdoor projects to be done, work with your siblings or a team of friends to clean the gutters and spread mulch. If it is within your budget, consider hiring a handyman or landscaper as a seasonal gift to Dad, especially if his age or health prohibits him from getting odd jobs finished.

The guy who always has a dad joke at the ready and doles out sage advice, whether you want it or not, deserves his own holiday. So honor your dad this Father’s Day…just not with another necktie.

One Stop Father’s Day Shop!

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Visit Killian’s For The Best Father’s Day Gifts & Specials

At Killians, you will find much hasn’t changed in four generations.

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LIVI NG

cover story Where the Experts Are

By Kristie Darling | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

Photos:

On the cover–Owners of Realty Executives, Kevin and Debbie Spencer Pictured–Left to right, front to back; Teresa Hensley, Kevin Spencer, Sandra Watts, Dawn Kilby, Elizabeth Franklin, Floyd Humphreys, Jade Isenhour, Anne Barrier, Gina King, and Brad Bollinger

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HICKORY HICKORY LIVING LIVING •• JUNE JUNE 2017 2017

“Realty Executives has always been about our people— our buyers, sellers, and our Executives,” Debbie Spencer told me. “It’s easy for our agents to tell people they work for Realty Executives, because we absolutely follow the Golden Rule and treat our clients—and each other—like family.” Indeed, the Spencer’s business is family, with husband, Kevin, and sons, Chris and Ryan, all integral players in the firm’s success. Debbie and Kevin started as owners of Realty Executives in 1993 and have built a hugely successful real estate enterprise here in Hickory.

A BIT OF HISTORY The company has grown from a handful of agents to close to 50 Executives now, due in large part, I’m sure, to the agency’s outstanding reputation, integrity, and ethical standards. Kevin explains, “Debbie and I bring years of experience to the table. I’ve always been associated with homes. In high school, I was a handyman—my dad and grandpa taught me—and I think that’s what got me into contracting and real estate. I’ve been broker-in-charge for over 25 years, and I think our agents, new and long-standing, know they can call on me for most anything.” Kevin was a top producer for many years, so, when an agent has a question about a contract or other details, he can help. If there’s structural or repair questions about a home, he can help there, too.

“Kevin’s career started in building and contracting, and when I began selling real estate, our team was off and running. Everything was different back then. We didn’t have cell phones, laptops, Facebook, and drone videos to help us sell houses,” Debbie explained. “We spent a lot of time in the car delivering keys, making phone calls at home or in the office. I can remember when contracts were written with carbon paper and interest rates were 16%! So much has changed, and our Executives put technology to excellent use serving their clients.”

When Kevin and Debbie bought the franchise, they had already established themselves in the real estate business. “I started in 1985, buying and reselling properties.

I discovered that working in real estate gave me some flexibility as a mom with two little boys,” Debbie said.

“The advantage of flex time is important to our agents, and we strive to protect parenting and family time. Most of our agents have been with us for many years, and we’ve created a culture of trust and support. With our agents, we don’t bring in just anyone; it has to be a good fit.”

Photos, above, top to bottom: • Built in 1993, Realty Executives of Hickory occupies 7,000 square feet of office space, with mortgage brokers and closing attorneys on the additional office floors.

• Teresa Hensley, one of the original Executives at the firm, has nearly 30 years in the business.

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

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A FAMILY AFFAIR Families play a huge role in every residential real estate transaction, and that concept is not lost on Debbie and Kevin. Whether you’re selling a home, buying a first or next home—if you’re the agent in the mix—your family and their wellbeing come into play. “Watching the economy grow as it has recently is encouraging,” Debbie continued, “because we want our Executives to thrive and sellers and buyers to have plenty of great housing options. Right now is a great time to sell a home.” Kevin is considered a regional real estate specialist having both residential and commercial expertise. He pens “Expert Excerpt,” a monthly Hickory Daily Record column covering real estate market trends.

Photos, above, top to bottom: • Jade Isenhour and Elizabeth Franklin hosting an Open House for both realtors and the public.

• Realty Executives have the experience and knowledge to guide buyers and sellers through all the necessary paperwork to purchase or sell a home. Pictured–Gina King and Floyd Humphreys • Executives go the extra mile to find their client’s dream home from first showing to closing day. Pictured–Brad Bollinger • Realty Executives have the experience to assist with all of your real estate needs. Pictured–Dawn Kilby 14

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

Chris Spencer has followed his parent’s lead and has become the lake expert of the family. He is broker-in-charge of Realty Executives’ Lake Norman location and is a man of imagination and drive. “I grew up on Lake Hickory, and I have over ten years of experience selling homes on all our beautiful lakes: Hickory, Rhodhiss, Norman and Lookout Shoals,” Chris explained. “Did I say I love lakes?

I’m one of just a handful of agents who take folks touring listings on the lake. It’s exciting every time I share an up close and personal view of someone’s potential new home from my 24-foot pontoon boat. When I’m there, sellers know I’m cruising past their property, showing their home from the best possible view. Is there any better way to buy or sell a lakefront home than from the lake itself?”

Chris produces drone videos of properties, a very cool addition to a seller’s listing. “I feel like I’m not just selling someone a home, I’m selling them the whole lake.”

Ryan Spencer is another family member who works in the business. Ryan has a natural talent for repair work and putting things back in working order. The family owns multiple properties, and Ryan has the responsibility of

Above, left–Sandra Watts–Realty Executives are trustworthy and professional as they give home buyers tours of local listings for sale. Right–An award winning firm–Realty Executives has over 40 experienced Executives, and locations in both Hickory and Lake Norman. They were voted Best Real Estate Firm by Hickory Daily Record five years in a row, and Hickory’s Finest Firm in 2016.

maintaining them. As an added bonus, he is available to Realty Executives agents for any problems that seem to pop up right before closing—the grass isn’t mowed, the window didn’t get painted, there’s trash left in the house, the old sofa is still on the deck, etc. His contribution is possibly more valuable than anyone’s when the Realtor is trying to close and get paid.

PROFESSIONALS WHO WORK FOR YOU “With technology supporting them, our Executives can work a much larger market than we did years ago,” Debbie explained.

“They cover the foothills, the Piedmont, all around our beautiful lake-filled central North Carolina. If you want to build, we represent ten custom home builders. We’re members of the Catawba, Mecklenburg, and Burke associations of Realtors. Our Executives can help you find a first home, your next home, a retirement or vacation home, or the perfect lot for your dream home.” The Hickory Daily Record named Realty Executives the Best Real Estate Firm five years in a row, and Hickory’s Finest Firm in 2016. “We’re a one-stop shop for real estate services,” Kevin said, “with a mortgage broker and attorneys on-site—our offices fill 7,000 square feet on the first floor of our building.

Our agents are devoted. Some are top producers, some have decades of experience, some are bi-lingual, and all are here to get you where you want to go.”

Realty Executives’ online marketing strategy is innovative. Office Manager Katie Keisler is the first in this area to have created the agency’s own app. “Real estate marketing and technologies

are ever changing. The most rewarding part of my job is to see our Executives adapt and succeed. We’re successful because of our people,” she shared. Katie’s skills in web design, social media, and marketing make her a critical cog in the wheel. “We couldn’t run this office without her,” Kevin and Debbie told me. At their website, www.RealtyExecs.net, you can search, save listings, schedule showings, and more. With over 30,000 visits a month, the website is a major avenue connecting them with buyers and sellers. New users register on an hourly basis.

“I’ve known a lot of these people for years,” receptionist Tina Leagon told me. “I come from a real estate family. I sold real estate for over 30 years—it’s in my blood, but I love that I’m not selling anymore. I’m really glad I can share my experience to help run this office.”

MEET YOUR REAL ESTATE PARTNER HERE There’s a very good reason that about 90% of sellers partner with a listing agent—selling your house is hard work, and if you don’t have the time, knowledge, experience, and skills, you should run, not walk, to Realty Executives when it’s time to put your house on the market. Good people, great service, and superior results!

REALTY EXECUTIVES (828) 328-8900 (704) 966-4659 785 HWY 70 SW 3688 N NC HWY 16 Hickory DENVER www.RealtyExecs.net HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

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Coming Soon to Hickory!

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Trusted Advisors in Business IT and Telecommunications

By Meredith Collins | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

With an increased reliance in technology in all business fields today, it’s more important than ever to have a company you know and trust handling all your voice and data needs. Prodigy Voice and Data is a local business IT and telecommunications company that offers a wide array of IT services, network solutions, and hosted infrastructure.

President Rex Benfield’s goal is to deliver a personalized approach and customer service. “I have previous experience with a phone company, and I reached the point where I wanted to start a business that is more focused on the customer 18

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

than on selling a product,” Rex said.

He started Prodigy Voice and Data in 2013 and focused on the Hickory, Morganton, and Statesville areas. “We want to develop a long-term, personal relationship with our customers,” Rex said.

Prodigy works with businesses, typically small to medium sized, with around five to 50 users. “We provide IT services to businesses that can’t afford their own IT department or aren’t large enough to have an IT department,” Rex said.

Prodigy uses a variety of different service providers, making it easier for them to

offer a customized solution versus being locked in to selling one product. “We maintain a lot of strategic partnerships with our industry vendors to maintain products we sell,” Rex said. “Our staff stays up-to-date on industry certification to have the necessary skill sets to support our broad client base.”

With 60 years combined experience, the Prodigy team has the experience and the resources to support either an existing network, or to create a business voice and data solution from the ground up.

“We offer a free network assessment,” Rex said.

Photos: Opposite page, front row;

Sheldon Mellon, Rex Benfield, Mike Gahagan. Back row–Dyna McCormick, Erin Payne, Shannon Hoops, Angela Nichols, Spencer Huffman • Right–Rex meeting with the sales staff as they review the latest trends in technology • Mike Gahagan and Rex prepare a cost analysis of a customer’s existing services.

Services include: • Managed Backup–a disaster recovery plan to backup information in case of a computer system crash • Managed Help Desk Desk–IT support to assist with computer problems and, more importantly, stay ahead of issues so they occur less frequently • Structured Cabling Cabling–creating a strong backbone for your company’s information delivery system through cabling that can impact the speed and reliability of your network • Business Communications–a variety of phone systems to boost your company’s telecommunication abilities

• Managed Server Care–monitoring your network to observe, maintain, and correct issues 24-hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year; working to get ahead of issues before they even become a problem • Ongoing IT Support Support–providing general IT support for your business

out there and make sure it’s a good fit for a customer,” Rex said. “Being a smaller company, we are more flexible in the solutions we can create. We are not vendor driven and do not have to buy from a specific vendor, so that allows us to create a more customized solution that does what the customer needs.”

And, don’t worry if this IT speak seems like a foreign language. The Prodigy team will explain everything in terms easy for you to understand to keep you up-to-date on all the latest trends.

“Technology is always changing, and we try to find what the latest and greatest is

www.prodigyvd.com 828-270-3215 Mailing Address: 2359 Highway 70 SE, #312, Hickory Physical Address: 27 1st Ave NE Suite 102, Hickory

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At Rock Barn, we offer an unrivaled lifestyle with a sole purpose of building and enriching the lives of our Members, Residents and Community. Becoming a member has a wealth of benefits. Our impressive list of amenities include two 18-hole championship golf courses, an eight-court tennis complex, a 20,000 square-foot spa, member-only fitness center and pool complex, and two distinct clubhouses with space for any event. Take advantage of the 2017 Intro Membership Program while it is still available. There is limited time left before this offer ends. Contact membership@rockbarn.com or 828.459.0011 for more information.

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What's Cooking?!

Honey Barbecue Burgers

The perfect Father’s Day meal includes firing up the grill for a new twist on an old classic!

8 4

Honey Barbecue Burgers

Directions: Combine beef, green

1 ½ ½ ½ 3-4 4 ½ ¾ 1 4 8

Serves 4

pound ground beef cup chopped green onions teaspoon garlic powder teaspoon cayenne pepper tablespoons steak seasoning hamburger buns stick melted butter cup barbecue sauce tablespoon honey slices Borden Cheese American Singles slices thick bacon, cooked until crispy

frozen onion rings slices tomato Fresh lettuce

onions, garlic powder and cayenne pepper; form into four patties.

Sprinkle both sides of each patty with steak seasoning. Cover and chill (Patties can be made several hours in advance).

Brush buns with melted butter; set aside. In small bowl, mix barbecue sauce with honey; set aside.

Heat grill to medium-high heat.

Grill burgers to internal temperature of 160° F, about 4-6 minutes per side. Two minutes before burgers are finished, grill buns, butter-side

down, until golden brown. Place cheese slices on burgers to melt.

Serve each burger on buttered bun topped with two slices bacon, two onion rings, honey barbecue sauce, lettuce and tomato.

Recipe compliments of Family Features For more recipes visit bordencheese.com

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LANDSCAPES,LLC

Transforming Landscapes into Scenic Views!

• Creative and innovative design • Impeccable reputation • Meticulous attention to detail • Integrity as business professionals • Quality that exceeds client expectations

Visit us online at www.ScenicViewLandscapes.net Owner and Landscape Contractor, Kevin Sipe

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

• Landscapes • • Hardscapes • Water Features • • Outdoor Lighting • Garden Maintenance •

For Your Landscape Transformation, Contact Kevin Sipe and the Scenic View Team

828-256-2517

A Style for Every Budget

BIGGEST SALE of the year

25% Off PLUS

FREE Invisible Tilt on Shutters • FREE Cordless on Wood/Faux, Roller, Cellular & Pleated BLINDS, SHADES, SHUTTERS, DRAPES AND MORE

C a l l f o r a F r e e i n - h o m e C o n s u lt a t i o n HICKORY: 828.308.8010 • STATESVILLE: 704.872.6611 w w w.BudgetBlinds.com

Style and Service for Every Budget

Family owned and operated

*Offer good on selected Signature Series® window treatments and Inspired Drapes® sold exclusively through Budget Blinds®. Excludes shutters and window film. At participating franchises only. Valid at time of initial estimate. Not valid with any other offers, discounts or coupons. Some restrictions may apply. Offer available for a limited time only. ©2016 Budget Blinds, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Each franchise independently owned and operated. Franchise opportunities available.

You have a CHOICE for Rehab Ask for Conover Nursing & Rehab!

Our goal is to get you back to the life you love living.

You are in good hands at Conover Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. After an illness, surgery or injury, our team is dedicated to your recovery and safe transition back home!

• Rehab Wing with Central Gym and Indoor Track • Results Oriented Physical, Speech and Occupational Therapists on Staff • Family Owned & Operated

Be who you are, and that’s exceptional.

What if you could be exceptional? We think you already are. You’re true to yourself. You live by your own dreams.

We’re here to help, encouraging you to be yourself.

Who else would you really want to be?

Conover Nursing & Rehabilitation Center 828.695.8282

www.ConoverNursingandRehab.com

920 4th Street SW • Conover, NC 28613 HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

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JUNE EVENTS Enjoy!

June 4 Hickory Community Theatre Jeffers Theatre Main Stage 30 3rd St NW, Hickory Final showing of Rent at 2:30PM (Rated R) Visit website for tickets hickorytheatre.org (828) 328-2283

June 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18

Boeing Boeing The Green Room Community Theatre 10 S Main Ave, Newton Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30PM Sundays at 3PM Visit website for tickets. thegreenroomtheatre.org (828) 464-6583

June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Sails Original Music Series Union Square, Hickory Bring a lawn chair.

Fridays at 6:30PM–8PM June 2: Dave Eggar Circus June 9: Ed Snodderly Band June 16: The Fretless June 23: Caravan of Thieves June 30: Danielle Howle www.facebook.com/sailsmusic/

June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Valdese Family Friday Night Concerts • Town of Valdese parking lot beside Wells Fargo Bank on Main Street • Bring a lounge chair • Music 26

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

starts at 7PM. June 2: Tony Bailey–Country/Rock June 9: Nu Blu–Bluegrass June 16: Emily Minor–Country/Dance June 23: Jason Lee McKinney–Variety June 30: Jim Quick & Coastline Independence Day Celebration • Car Show on Main with Beer Garden • Fireworks at dusk at Old Rock School townofvaldese.com

June 2, 9, 16, 23 TGIF • Downtown Morganton Old Burke County Courthouse 102 East Union St, Morganton Bring a lawn chair, no coolers, no pets. Vendors open at 6PM. Opening act at 7PM. Main act from 8PM–10PM June 2: Virginia & the Slims (Swing) 7PM: John Kiser June 9: Organic Daptones (Funk) 7PM: Michael Hefner (Americana) June 16: Almost Vintage (Classic Rock) 7PM: Ray Shook Band (Country) June 23: Throwdown Jones (Rock) 7PM: Matt Hogan (Alternative Rock)

June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Music On The Lawn The Inn at Ragged Gardens 203 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock Bring a lawn chair, no coolers, no pets 5:30PM–8:30PM June 2: Supa Tight June 9: Shelby Rae Moore Band June 16: Soul Benefactor

June 23: Drive South June 30: Harris Brothers www.ragged-gardens.com

June Exhibits The Hickory Museum of Art 243 Third Ave NE, Hickory Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10AM– 4PM, and Sundays, 1PM–4PM Free admission • Visit website for exhibits. www.hickoryart.org

Farmer’s Markets Downtown Hickory Farmer’s Market • Union Square Wednesdays: 10AM–2PM Saturdays: 8AM–1PM Catawba County Public Health Farmer’s Market 3070 11th Ave. Dr. SE, Hickory Thursdays: 10AM–2PM Conover Farmer’s Market 109 1st St. E, Conover Saturdays: 8AM–12 Noon Abernethy Laurels Farmers Market • Front courtyard of Abernethy Laurels, 102 Leonard Ave, Newton Mondays: 8:30AM–12 Noon Center United Methodist Church Farmers Market 4945 Sherrills Ford Rd, Catawba Wednesdays 2PM–5:30PM Download a map at: http://gis.catawbacountync.gov/ maps/Farmers_Markets.pdf © MonkeyBusinessImages | iStock | Thinkstock

We’ve Got Your Back!

Southeast Pain Care is now Southeast Pain & Spine Care Your Leader In Non-Surgical Spine Care PAIN & SPINE TREATMENT OPTIONS: • Spinal Cord Stimulators

• Radiofrequency

• Epidural Steroid Injections • Joint & Trigger Point Injections • Nerve Blocks • Medication Management

Visit us online at SEPAINANDSPINECARE.COM CALL FOR A CONSULTATION Southeast Pain & Spine Care at Hickory: 828.330.3351 Southeast Pain & Spine Care at Valdese: 828.475.7004 Facilities of Blue Ridge HealthCare

JENKINS JENK INS 

FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE

Every Life Tells a Story It is an honor for us to help you celebrate the lives of people you love.

Cremations Starting At $795.00 Pre-Arrangement Plans Available.

Ask Us About Transferring Existing Plans at a Tremendous Savings.

Carl and Lori Cooper Jenkins Ben Jenkins Family Owned and Operated

828-464-1555

www.JenkinsFuneralHome.net HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

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Planning Your

W

By Kathy Wheeler

When I planned my wedding over 30 years ago, from the engagement until the actual wedding and reception, it took about six to eight weeks! There was a lot to do in that period of time, but with my older sister’s help, and other family members, we made it happen. I think the fact that I was married in the church I grew up in and used the fellowship hall for the reception made the planning much easier. Today, couples are looking for a more personalized wedding and venues with more character. From barns to country clubs, these venues must be reserved well in advance. Planning a wedding has now become a year-long (or more!) process and is big business.

According to a survey published by Wedding Wire, people spend $28,000, on average, for their wedding and reception. If you include the honeymoon and ring, the cost soars to an average of $37,000. Photographers/videographers, DJs/musicians, invitations, caterers, venues, florists, wedding planners, officiants, event rentals, décor, cake, wedding party gifts/wedding favors, transportation, the groom’s attire, and of course, the wedding gown, all add up to an expensive occasion.

Some brides and couples like DIY projects to make things that are unique to their wedding and to save money. When choosing these projects, make sure they can be done well in advance. A bride putting together fresh flower arrangements the night before the wedding is probably not a good idea. You want to be able to enjoy your day, so leave those projects that require last minute attention to the professionals. Wedding favors, invitations, signage, gifts, and non-perishable decorations are things that can be done well in advance and

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HICKORY HICKORY LIVING LIVING •• JUNE JUNE 2017 2017

Big Day!

look professionally handcrafted. Don’t hesitate to involve creative family members and friends.

I’m a graphic designer, and I’ve helped my nieces and nephews with their wedding invitations, making each one unique and customizing it to their style of wedding and venue. Save the date cards and invitations are the first items seen by invited guests. They set the stage for the wedding and give guests an idea of what to expect. An invitation can create excitement or not. For example, if the venue is a barn, consider using burlap, twine, lace, and wooden accents on your invitation. For a more formal wedding, vellum, linen, and ribbon may be appropriate. You might choose an intricate lacey sleeve cut using a Cricket, with the invitation inside. The possibilities are endless, and each additional layer adds to the love and expense.

Those extra layers can also add to the cost of postage.

Signage with catchy sayings has become very popular. Chalkboards, crates or other wooden signs, and canvases are being used. Some people are great at free-handing this lettering, while others need to trace, use a projector, or a custom stencil to create the letters. It’s time consuming but can be beautifully tied into the invitation by using the same fonts. Likewise, wedding favors can be personalized with tags using the same font for a pulled-together look.

Whether you hire a professional to do the work or do it yourself, planning your wedding can take a lot of love, time, and effort. Try to stick to your budget.

Purchase the more expensive items first, and get creative with the details. Above all else, enjoy your big day!

©iStockphoto.com | VitaliiSmulskyi

Kiawah Island RENTAL

* One Bedroom villa + sleeper sofa * Lagoon view * Walk or bike to beach * Easy access to golf and tennis

Honoring Your Pet as Family

To Reserve a Week this Summer, Call Linda at:

(704) 657-0237

We share your love for pets and offer our support when you need us most Compassionate Personal Service On-Site Pet Cremation Caskets, Urns & Keepsakes Pet Loss Grief Support Group 24-Hour Assistance

facebook.com/PetPilgrimage

www.PetPilgrimage.com 704.664.5484

492 East Plaza Drive (Hwy 150) Mooresville, NC Locally Owned & Operated Member: Pet Loss Professionals Alliance (PLPA) HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

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S!

G AD N I T P E C W AC

NO

Promote Your Business Digitally at Valley Hills Mall Digital Advertising Media, Inc. is offering businesses an opportunity to market to approximately 800,000 monthly visitors at Valley Hills Mall.

Your ad will get over 40,000 impressions each month across 12 screens spread throughout six different locations in the mall, including two large screens in the Food Court.

In addition, the screens can host social media posts to enhance your advertising and further connect you with your customers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Digital Advertising Media, Inc. 866.457.1329

The New Website is LIVE!

View it on all your mobile devices

www.HickoryLivingToday.com The new website allows us to provide immediate lifestyle coverage in Hickory!

It will feature local businesses, the best restaurants and events in the area.

You can continue to read Hickory Living Magazine online, or pick up your free copy each month at over 400 locations in Hickory and surrounding areas!

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

The New Website Offers New Advertising Opportunities!

For Availability and Pricing Contact: Ashley Stevenson 704-902-5418 or email ashley@highprofilemarketing.today

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2017

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Protect your

SKIN from the SUN Sun damage can cause premature aging and skin cancer. Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology recommends that you protect yourself this summer by: • Wearing a sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher.

• Wearing protective clothing such as a wide brim hat, long sleeves and pants, and sunglasses.

• Avoiding the sun between 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Mohs technique allows surgeons to create the smallest defect possible. PPSD offers Mohs surgery and immediate plastic surgical reconstruction.

Please call and schedule your appointment today with Dr. Johnson or one of our other board-certified physicians.

If diagnosed with skin cancer, ask your doctor if you would benefit from Mohs surgery.

828.325.9849 • 315 19th St. SE, Hickory, NC 28602

Charles Johnson, MD

Dermatologist/Mohs Surgeon