Hickory Living March 2024 by Oasis Publishing, Inc.

Complimentary March 2024 On the Cover

Home DESIGN

Skin and Laser Center

pages 21–27

page 10

More than Just a Pretty Face HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

contents

MARCH 2024 MacAdam Smith

FEATURES

Publisher mac@oasisluxuryhomes.com (484) 769-7445

10 • COVER STORY Swisher Skin and Laser Center More Than Just A Pretty Face

16 • BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS AMOREM Quality, Compassionate Support 22 • Everley Inspection Services Licensed, Certified, and Experienced

Kathy Wheeler Design & Advertising Sales kathylivingmagazine@gmail.com (828) 238-3224

HOME DESIGN 21 • Home Design 26 • 2024 Trends in Home Decor

IN THIS ISSUE 6 • Welcome to the March Issue Sharon Simpson Advertising Director sharon@lncurrents.com (704) 677-9159

22 Hickory

LIVING 10225 Hickorywood Hill Ave., Unit A Huntersville, NC 28078 (484) 769-7445 HickoryLiving@gmail.com

www.HickoryLivingMagazine.com 4

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

Page 18

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 intended or unintended results of any advertiser, editorial contributors, company, professional corporation, business or service provider herein this publication. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

contributors

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amy Casil • Kathy Wheeler

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY By Shane Greene Photography

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

Welcome to the

March Issue! By Kathy Wheeler

©iStockphoto.com | AlexRaths

he warmer weather of spring is a welcomed change to the cold winter we’ve had. Mark your calendars for the first day of spring on the 21st and begin planning your home improvement projects and outdoor activities. This month’s issue of Hickory Living is filled with advertisers who can help you with your projects. Check out our Home Design section starting on page 21. Also, it’s time to plan your children’s school break with summer camps. You will find the information for some of those camps on page 18. Register early to secure your child’s spot! The feature cover story is Swisher Skin and Laser Center, owned by Dr. Jenette Swisher. You can learn more about the services they offer and their future plans starting on page 10. A true entrepreneur, Dr. Swisher also owns WAXmd with two locations. We have two business spotlights this month. Burke Hospice and Palliative Care and Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care have merged to form AMOREM. They offer the same caring assistance to those in need of palliative medicine, hospice care, or grief support just with a new name. You can read their article and see photos of their newly renovated Valdese Professional Center on page 16. Our other business spotlight features Everley Inspection Services. Owner Dan Everley is experienced, licensed, and certified to handle all of your home and commercial inspections. In addition to inspections, he has thermal imaging available and is licensed to conduct mold, radon, and water testing. His article begins on page 22. Enjoy the season and thank you for reading Hickory Living! 6

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

on the cover

Skin and Laser Center

More than Just a Pretty Face By Amy Casil | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

Beauty At Its Best When I talk with people who are considering aesthetic treatments to maintain a youthful, natural appearance, nearly every person I’ve spoken to says their top priority is having trust in the people, the products, and the services provided.

provider is her greatest asset. And talk about credentials and qualifications! As a board-certified Internal Medicine physician, she had 11 years of education after high school and then an additional 17 years of injection/aesthetic experience on top of that.

I asked Dr. Jenette Swisher, founder of Swisher Skin and Laser Center, about patient trust and confidence. She emphasized that her reputation as an accomplished and honest

Working along with Dr. Swisher since 2016, Elena Willging is a registered nurse and licensed esthetician specializing in skincare with over a decade of experience.

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

Dr. Swisher said, “We’re deeper than a pretty face, we’re smart and qualified and credentialed.” Benefits of Medically-Based Aesthetics Aesthetic treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, and lasers do not come without possible complications and adverse events. Dr. Swisher said she was concerned that many new people were entering the field without adequate background or training. There’s certainly a difference between a board-certified doctor supported by the aesthetic companies and a person who’s taken a weekend course. “When it comes to sticking needles in your face, you shouldn’t be bargain hunting,” Dr. Swisher said. “The risks of unqualified providers could be severe.” With injections come the risk of infections, nerve injuries, abnormal smile, eyelid droop, vascular occlusions, skin death, and even blindness. Dr. Swisher suggests that patients check that the medical director (typically an MD or DO) is present and actively involved at the medspa. At Swisher Skin and Laser Center, you get the confidence of aesthetic beauty backed with scientific knowledge to achieve your goals and best results. Trustworthy and Recognized for Their Excellence and Value “The biggest thing for us is trust,” Dr. Swisher said. “Our reputation is worth far more than making a few dollars from a service.” Ever since moving into their offices in 2020, Swisher Skin has won Best Aesthetic or Medspa awards every year including Best of Catawba Valley and Best of the Foothills from Hickory Living. Both are voted by the public. Dr. Swisher said, “We’re really proud of it.” With a focus on medically-informed skin care, patients receive a more natural look from the Center’s treatments and services. “With our best work, you can’t tell that our patients have had any work,” Dr. Swisher said. Patients enjoy the value of getting exceptional providers and excellent results at fair prices. “We want our clients to feel like celebrities and receive celebrity level services at a much lower price point,” said Dr. Swisher. When patients go to Swisher Skin and Laser Center, they can expect natural results, premier services, and expert qualifications, all at a reasonable price. Doing Something for Yourself “The people that come to Swisher Skin and Laser Center all want to do something for themselves,” Dr. Swisher said. They could have experienced life changes, or they can simply want to look refreshed and at their best. The Center offers an array of services for various skin concerns and specializes in facial rejuvenation procedures. What are some of the options patients can choose from when seeking medical aesthetics? A person could start with simple facials, dermaplaning and microdermabrasion for skin tone and texture improve-

Photos:

On the cover–Dr. Jenette Swisher, owner of Swisher Skin and Laser Center Opposite page–The staff: Adair Bowman, LeeAndra Long, Dr. Swisher, Elena Willging, and Lanie Tucker Pictured above– • Dr. Jenette Swisher is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician with 17 years of injection/ aesthetic experience. • Dr. Swisher and Elena Willging, RN, LE, take their injections seriously. • Lanie Tucker, administrative assistant, and Adair Bowman, business manager, keeps Swisher Skin running smoothly and helps patients feel welcomed. HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

Photos:

Left–Swisher Skin’s laser technology LeeAndra Long, LE, loves performing Hydrafacials to refresh clients complexion. Below–The providers at Swisher Skin combine facials, peels, lasers, and injections to give patients healthy, youthful skin.

really like family,” she said. “When you come in, we know you. We know your motivations and goals. We want you to feel better about yourself, look a little fresher, and hold your head a lot higher when you leave.” A Reputation You can have Confidence In Swisher is truly a name you can trust. Beyond Swisher Skin and Laser Center, she experienced success with Swisher Internal Medicine (now UNC Hickory Medical Park), and also opened the first and only waxing salon in the area, WAXmd, now with two locations. So you can be confident that her next venture will also be something you will want to try out. ment. Swisher Skin also has Hydrafacials, chemical peels, and microneedling. They are known for their natural results with injections of neurotoxins (Botox and Xeomin) as well as dermal fillers (Juvéderm, Radiesse, Belotero). And (it’s in their name), they offer some of the latest in laser technologies for skin tightening, facial rejuvenation, scar revision, and more. Services are complemented by medical grade skin care lines from Obagi and Skinceuticals. Although facial anti-aging is their focus, Swisher Skin also offers other treatments such as scalp injections to restore hair, sclerotherapy for spider veins, body contouring, vaginal rejuvenation, and, of course, hair removal. Are you thinking about a spring refresh? Take advantage of Swisher Skin’s discounts such as $9.99/unit neurotoxins for new clients and 10% off all services for hospital personnel. Swisher Skin also offers discounts during patients’ birthday weeks and on multiple purchases of medical-grade skincare products. They participate with Alle and Xperience rewards programs too. Dr. Swisher’s genuine dedication, care, and sense of humor shines through when you speak with her. “Our patients are 12

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

With the ongoing success of Swisher Skin and its growth in patients and services, Dr. Swisher mentioned that there will be a new service coming soon. In addition to refreshing your appearance for spring, you can look forward to an IV Hydration Center from Dr. Swisher and the staff. In addition to generally aiding wellness and energy levels, IV Hydration has many positive benefits. Vitamin infusions can boost immune health, help with anti-aging, and hydrate you for athletic or other activities. It is a wonderful adjunct to promote healthy hydrated skin also. Experience, Professionalism, and Caring Counts When visiting Swisher Skin and Laser Center, you know you are receiving services from certified medical professionals with years of experience. All of the caring and qualified staff at the Center welcomes patients with individual attention and are ready to help you refresh and renew, inside and out. See what Swisher Skin and Laser Center can do for you. For a free consultation, contact them at 828-838-1184, swisherskin@gmail.com or @Swisherskin.com. Swisher Skin and Laser Center www.SwisherSkin.com 20 13th Ave NW, Hickory

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

business spotlight

Photos:

Left–AMOREM team members are outside the newly renovated Valdese Professional Center which serves as a hub for AMOREM clinical staff and a space for their workshops and events. Opposite page–Senior Leadership Team–Vice President of Quality and Compliance, Bobbie Self, Vice President of Community Engagement, Kerri McFalls, and Chief Operating Officer, April Moore Outreach Specialists Lauren Huskey and Twyla Hildebrand collaborate easily with clinical staff and leaders. The team enjoys the multiple styles of workspace at the Center.

Quality, Compassionate Support By Amy Casil | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

Talking with Molly Fitzgerald, digital content specialist with AMOREM, I learned so much about how a community-based nonprofit organization can make a difference not only in the lives of patients who have been diagnosed with a serious illness, but also their families and the community as a whole. Molly said, “AMOREM is the product of two legacy hospice organizations, Burke Hospice and Palliative Care and Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, we have the same mission right here at home, just a new name.” I spoke to Molly about the difference in hospice and palliative care. Hospice care is traditionally offered to people who have received a diagnosis of a terminal illness where the average patient has an expectation of living six or fewer months. Palliative care can be offered to any 16

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

person with a serious illness. AMOREM offers both, as well as other services that support families and individuals with serious medical diagnoses. They respect individual and family choices regarding palliative or hospice care.

Regardless of whether a patient is receiving hospice or palliative care, AMOREM aims to serve their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

People often find it difficult to talk about hospice care, but AMOREM provides care that recognizes dying as a natural part of living. Hospice care can help people to maintain their independence when facing a terminal illness. Early in the process, hospice care can be especially beneficial to help patients complete important tasks, participate in spiritual services, and spend time with loved ones.

As a community-based nonprofit organization, AMOREM has been serving the community for over 40 years. AMOREM provides services in 12 counties in North Carolina, including Catawba, Burke, and Caldwell counties. Molly shared AMOREM’s mission with me, which is to provide quality, thoughtful, loving care to our patients and support to their families. AMOREM also has a mission of offering education and grief support to families and the community at-large.

The goal of palliative medicine provided by AMOREM is to optimize life quality. It can also prevent frequent hospitalizations and it helps families and patients to manage serious, complex illnesses.

Hospice care is traditionally provided wherever a patient resides, whether it is their own home, longterm care, or a hospital environment. AMOREM serves over 1,000

people with either hospice care or palliative care throughout its 12-county service area. However, AMOREM is also unique in the area in providing three patient care units with a fourth under construction. This allows AMOREM to provide general inpatient care, short-term around-the-clock care, and respite care. I asked Molly how respite care works and for up to five days every 30 days, caregivers can have respite while their loved one still continues to receive hospice or palliative care.

While AMOREM’s focus is on their patients, they also support families in many ways. “There’s always an event for families on the calendar,” Molly said. AMOREM offers camps for children, private counseling, and education in important topics like advanced care planning. AMOREM also provides Hospice 101, small classes that educate people about hospice care.

as a whole can count on AMOREM’s compassionate and caring services.

AMOREM was named Burke County Business of the Year based on their excellence in service to the community. Patients, families, and the community

AMOREM 828-870-1605 1-844-4AMOREM www.amoremsupport.org

Referrals for palliative medicine, hospice, or grief support may be made by the patients themselves, family members, friends, clergy, or physicians by calling and speaking with someone in their referral department or completing an online referral form.

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

NOW!

Plan NOW for Summer Fun! Summer Camp is an opportunity for kids to learn new skills and make new friends.

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

home D E S I G N

fter being cooped up all winter, we are ready to change our decor and make some needed improvements to our home. Spring is a fantastic time to start! If you are redecorating, space planning is important and applies to walls, floors, and flat surfaces as well. A good rule of thumb for floors is 60% furniture and 40% clear space.

point! Overdoing it will make your room feel cramped and cluttered. When hanging art on a blank wall, the center of the art should be eye level— about 57” from the floor, or 8” to 10” above the furniture as long as there is more space between the art and the ceiling than between the art and the furniture. There are always exceptions to this rule. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Peach Fuzz

Scale is another consideration. You need different sizes of furniture in a room for visual interest…tall, short, large, small. This applies to your accessories as well. You can place decorative items in threes with varying heights and scale. Don’t be afraid to use large, over-sized statement pieces as the focal point of a room. However, you only need one focal Photos: ©iStockphoto.com | sl-f and Manuta

If you are using drapes, making them wider than the window can add drama and hanging them all the way to the ceiling can make the ceilings look taller.

13-1023

2024

Pantone Color of the Year

Whether you are redecorating, making repairs, or improving curb appeal, there are professionals on the following pages to help you with those spring projects! HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024

business spotlight

Photos:

Left–Dan Everley, owner of Everley Inspection Services, is going over the summary of the inspection with a client. Opposite page, left to right • Inspecting a furnace exhaust pipe in the attic that removes gases • Inspecting internal parts of the HVAC system • Inspecting the exhaust pipe for the gas water heater • Inspecting a possible roof leak around the chimney

H E R I T A G E

S I N C E

1 9 5 3

Licensed, Certified, and Experienced By Amy Casil | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

When it comes to residential and commercial building inspections, it’s important to work with a professional who is licensed, certified, and above all, experienced and conscientious. Speaking with Dan Everley of Everley Inspections, I learned a lot of important details about inspections in Hickory and the surrounding communities. Dan Everley’s commitment to excellence is clear. He provides inspections for many clients, including individuals who are buying or selling a home, investors, realtors, and insurance companies. In addition to the regular duties of home or commercial inspections, I asked Dan about what types of tests he is certified to perform. Everley Inspections is certified to conduct radon, water, and mold testing. This makes the business a “one stop” 22

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inspection service. I was curious about radon, and Dan explained that radon is radioactive gas that comes out of rocks in the hills and mountains. It emerges in a natural process, but it can become a concern for homeowners. If radon reaches a high enough percentage, 4 picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L), it needs to be remediated. Even below that level, some owners will want to mitigate the radon in their home. If you have read a home inspection report before, you could think that they sound overly critical, but Dan explained that the goal of the reports isn’t to “be mean” but to be accurate and to help the home and its systems function properly. “I’ll always tell people up front if there are any serious issues,” Dan said. He provides report summaries, and is glad to take the time to explain the inspection report and any

issues, including things that might not be a problem now, but could emerge as future concerns. Other services that Dan provides include gas detection and thermal imaging. I asked how thermal imaging benefits building inspections and Dan said that they can identify HVAC leaks or blockages, and help to diagnose problems with HVAC systems. They can also provide help with energy efficiency and window sealing and security. Gas detection is a very clear safety benefit: just about everyone knows that leaking natural gas in a home can quickly become dangerous. Dan said that he has found gas leaks in a number of surprising locations, but often, they come from a pinched gas line. Everley Inspections serves Catawba, Caldwell, Alexander, Burke, Lincoln, Iredell, Watauga and Wilkes Counties. Dan will inspect all aspects and areas of homes and commercial buildings, including interior, exterior, and structural components. Roofs, attics, crawl spaces, basements, and garages are all part of the inspection service.

Everley Inspections has many satisfied customers. Erica B. in Hickory highly recommends Dan. She said, “He was very responsive to our calls and texts from the beginning. He kept us informed of the steps of home inspection and was very honest. He’s reliable and trustworthy, and we would absolutely use his inspection services again!” Talking with Dan, it’s clear that the testimonials are as accurate as Everley Inspection reports. He is not only experienced, licensed, and certified in all aspects of home and commercial inspections, he takes the work seriously and is an excellent communicator as well. (828) 640-4742 dan@everleyinspections.com www.everleyinspections.com NC Residential and Commercial Inspector License #4139

“He was very responsive to our calls and texts from the beginning. He kept us informed of the steps of home inspection and was very honest. He’s reliable and trustworthy, and we would absolutely use his inspection services again!” – Erica B.

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In the ever-evolving trends of interior design, 2024 brings a blend of timeless elegance and tech innovation. The focus of home décor this year lies in creating spaces that reflect individuality, comfort, and sustainability. Sustainable Chic Sustainability takes center stage in 2024’s home decor trends. Design enthusiasts are opting for eco-friendly materials and practices, embracing recycled wood, organic fabrics, and energy-efficient lighting solutions. From reclaimed furniture pieces to biodegradable accessories, the emphasis is on reducing environmental impact while infusing spaces with character and charm. Natural Elements Inspired by the tranquility of nature, homeowners are integrating natural elements into their interiors. Earthy tones such as forest green, terracotta, and sandy beige dominate color palettes, evoking a sense of serenity and connection to the outdoors. Incorporating houseplants, stone accents, and wooden textures adds depth and warmth, creating inviting sanctuaries within the home. 26

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2024 Trends in Home Decor

Maximalism is Coming Back Maximalism experiences a resurgence in 2024. Bold patterns, vibrant hues, and eclectic decor choices characterize this aesthetic. From statement wallpapers to mix-and-match furniture styles, maximalist interiors celebrate individual expression and a fearless approach to design. Embrace the mantra of “more is more” as you curate spaces that reflect your personality and passions. Tech-Infused Living The integration of smart technology continues to revolutionize modern living spaces. From automated lighting systems to voice-controlled appliances, smart home gadgets offer convenience, efficiency, and enhanced comfort. Design professionals are seamlessly blending technology with aesthetics, concealing wires and devices within its’ interiors for a harmonious balance of form and function. Artisanal Craftsmanship In an age marked by mass production, artisanal craftsmanship emerges as a cherished hallmark of home decor in 2024. Handcrafted ceramics, woven textiles, and custom furniture pieces add a touch of authenticity and

individuality to interior spaces. Embrace the beauty of imperfection and the story behind each artisanal creation as you curate a home that celebrates craftsmanship and heritage. We are in the perfect location for custom furniture, custom cabinets, or artisan pieces. The craftsmanship in our area is outstanding with them many furniture manufacturers. Craftsman Cabinets and Furniture is one of our advertisers and works with many skilled craftsmen to offer Amish-built cabinets, custom furniture, and unique accessories for your home. They are located on highway 321. Cozy Nooks and Comfortable Havens As the pace of life accelerates, creating cozy retreats within the home becomes essential for nurturing well-being and fostering intimacy. Embrace the Danish concept of hygge by incorporating plush textiles, soft lighting, and intimate seating arrangements into your living spaces. Whether it’s a snug reading corner or a fireside nook, prioritize comfort and relaxation as you design spaces that invite moments of joy and contentment. In essence, 2024’s home decor trends encapsulate a harmonious blend of sustainability, individuality, and technological innovation. From embracing nature-inspired elements to celebrating artisanal craftsmanship, the key lies in curating spaces that resonate with personal style and values. This year, explore new horizons, experiment with textures and colors, and above all, let your home be a reflection of who you are and what you cherish most.

HICKORY LIVING • MARCH 2024