March 2011 "Spring Fashion Issue"

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03.11

lifestyle

SPRING FASHION ISSUE CULTURE

DINING

ENTERTAINMENT

FASHION

FITNESS

NIGHTLIFE

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publisher’s note Looks like spring has come early Hopefully it’s not back to winter anytime soon! There is no better time than now for our Spring Fashion issue. It’s packed full of the latest trends in accessories, colors, makeup, and some Q & A with fantastic local designers .

You will also find several profiles on newly opened salons in the Charlotte area. Finally, check out some of the hottest looks for 2011 from a handful of area boutiques.

We are not stopping there! Since it is spring, it’s time to get ready to be seen again; so we will show you how to get in shape fast! Once you do, there are some great new restaurants in town to try out and several new places in Uptown to get your drink and dance on. RE:Public and Prohibition opened a few weeks ago and Phoenix will be opening in the coming weeks. You can read all about the new hotspots in this issue!

With the warmer weather, brings more outdoor activities but before I get to this, make sure you check out the pictures from the 10th Annual Charlotte Bartenders Ball held on February 20th. If you were there, you know it is the best party of the year! For those who weren’t in attendance, at least you can see what you missed and make a pact with yourself to not miss out again!

Elevate Lifestyle is having our St. Patrick Day Party at Kennedy’s Premium Bar & Grill on Thursday, March 17th and on Saturday, April 30th, we will be taking our annual “Party Bus” to the Charlotte Queens Cup Steeplechase. As always you can find out more about these and more events on our website, ElevateLifestyle.com.

Have a great month, Steve Caldwell

e

team

Publisher: Steve Caldwell Editor: Edy Hinson Creative Director: Greg Smith Design and Production: Greenspon Advertising Cover Photography: Jim Merrill, JMT Photography | JMTFoto.com Model: Brittany Kerr

Photography Spread: Spring Trends Jim Merrill | JMT Photography | jmtfoto.com; Models: Brittany Kerr, Chris VanSice neither are affiliated, Carson Kowar with Evolution Management, EvolutionMT.com; Mike Press with Carolina Talent, CarolinaTalent.us; Wardrobe: Apricot Lane Boutique, ApricotLaneBoutique.com; Hair Stylist: Dwayne Linens and Brittani McLiverty with 8 The Salon Located at Village at SouthPark; Makeup Artist: Kristen Jordan; Location: The Residence at SouthPark Photography Spread: EQUINOX Fenix Fotography | fenixfoto.com; Model: Anna Wolf, Evolution Talent Agency, EvolutionMT.com; Wardrobe: J T Posh, JTPosh.com; Fashion Styling & Hair Joey Hewell, JStudioSouthend.com; Makeup: Jackie Greene Murphy, NextLevelMakeup.com Advertising, Sponsorship, and Website Sales General Advertising Sales Information: Blair Calabrese, Christine Younghans, Dempsey Gibson, and Steve Caldwell Contributing Writers: Christine Younghans, Stanley Owings, Steve Caldwell, and T Strong Contributing Editors: Culture Editor: Chrystal Rose, Dining Editor: Nikki Wilson, Entertainment Editor: Denise Gregory, Fashion Editor: Debra Kennedy, Fitness Editor: Monique Douglas, Nightlife Editor: Sean Flynn Event, Article and Web site Photography: Allure Photography, Eun Park, Steve Caldwell, Taylor Handy & Trip Bye

Need a SpriNg BooSt to your BuSiNeSS?

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CONTENTS

20 CULTURE: Kings Drive Art Walk 24 DINING: Corned Beef and Cabbage 28 ENTERTAINMENT: Fight Lab 32 NIGHTLIFE: 300th District 36 NIGHTLIFE: Prohibition is Back 40 FITNESS: TurboFire?

44 Fashion: Spring Trends 84 Fashion: Equinox

SPRING FASHION

54 Le Petite Spa 58 M2 Salon 62 Dwayne and Rowshay!

68 Pilger Designs 70 3 Thimbles 72 Machicao Couture 74 Flow By Tara Davis 76 Spring 2011 Beauty Trends 80 Ready-To-Wear Spring?

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culture

Annual Fall Event ‘Festival in the Park’ Brings us a New Event for Spring This September, the Festival in the Park will be celebrating its 47th year bringing the Charlotte community together through the arts at Freedom Park. The festival runs for four days and offers art, delicious concessions, entertainment, and activities for all ages. The best part?

Admission is free, so it’s a great way to get out of the house without dropping a ton of cash. And since the festival tends to stimulate such an interest in the arts for the fall season, the ‘Festival in the Park’ folks are now bringing us something to celebrate in the spring: the first ever Kings Drive Art Walk.

As a lover of art, I was excited to hear about the Kings Drive Art Walk taking place Saturday and Sunday, April 16 and 17 at the newly constructed Sugar Creek Greenway along Kings Drive near the Metropolitan in Midtown. The art walk is a new event brought to us by the Festival in the Park, and hopes to continue to do what the Festival does best: bring the community together through the arts.

What can you expect from this new artistic venture? Art … and lots of it! The Art Walk will feature 35 to 100 local and emerging artists with media ranging from painting and drawing to sculpture, pottery, and metal, stone, wood and glass works. You can also view some local performing arts groups at the adjacent Sugar Creek Greenway Amphitheater. Rather than the usual food vendors, Kings Drive Art Walk will instead showcase local businesses and restaurants along Kings Drive.

The Details: When: Saturday and Sunday, April 16 and 17 Where: Sugar Creek Greenway along Kings Drive near the Metropolitan in Midtown Admission: Free!

Food: Plenty of local restaurants and businesses along Kings Drive Parking: Central Piedmont Community College’s central campus provides plenty of deck parking in addition to the parking strips in and around the greenway.

Public Transportation: Both Kings Drive and Kenilworth If you love art and/or have an artist you would like to support, the Kings Drive Art Walk is one spring event you definitely don’t want to miss. Hope to see you there!

Chrystal Rose, Culture Editor Chrystal is an aspiring author and currently blogs on xtalrose.com about dating and relationships. You can follow her on twitter via xtal_rose.

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dining

corned beef and cabbage Let the green beer flow and shamrocks show as St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner! Rest assured, there won’t be any shortage of places to celebrate.

Whether you are looking for a live music, Irish-inspired cuisine, or just a place to go to try out your fake Irish accent – A vast array of Charlotte area pubs have you covered!

While there are plenty of places to get your Irish on, below are just a few of the hot spots the Queen City has to offer. Make sure to check out the many pubs all around the city - Bar hopping is always encouraged! But don’t stop with St. Patty’s day; the food is always good, the pints are forever cold, and pubs are definitely worth checking out even without being decked out in three shades of green.

Kennedy’s Irish Pub The newest pub in town is making quite a rumble in the Elizabeth area as business is great and the residents are excited to have another option in the neighborhood. Kennedy’s Irish Pub, located on the corner of N. Caswell and 7th, opened its doors to the public last September and is already known as the home of the $5 Irish car bomb. The restaurant is an American sports bar theme with an Irish twist. Complete with a 1200 square-foot dog friendly deck, 16 plasma

TVs, over 20 beers on tap, and a private room upstairs with a private bar - This is the place where you can gather with friends or come out to meet new people.

Kennedy’s celebrates their six-month anniversary party on March 5 with drink specials and live music from 2 - 5 pm. But the real party is St. Patty’s Day, as Kennedy’s has been looking forward to it since the day they opened. Come out and partake in the “Three Days of Green” from March 17 -19 where they will be rockin’ out with live music, give-a-ways and all the green beer and March Madness games you can handle. While you’re there, grab a flight of whiskey or a pint of Guinness and sit down and sample the long list of Irish-inspired dishes like the Blarney Burger, the Shamrock Chicken Pasta or the Dublin Broil. If you dare, take on the Garbage Plate Challenge - Two pounds of fries, a pound of macaroni salad, six hamburger patties and six pieces of bread smothered in Kennedy’s own meat sauce. If you tackle the monster challenge in 45 minutes, it’s on the house and your name will live in history on the wall of fame.

Big Ben’s British Restaurant & Pub It didn’t take long for Big Ben’s to become a hot ticket in Charlotte. The restaurant and pub originally opened its doors to the Queen City in February 2006 offering English fare and a good time. Yet the original spot on Providence Road met its demise when a Valentine’s Day fire tore through the locale in 2010. Big Ben owners, David and Paula, knew that the fire wouldn’t be the end - Plans to rebuild started the same day.

Big Ben’s is new and improved and now hails from a new location in a reformed trolley station in South End and recently held its grand re-opening party in January. If you liked the former Big Ben’s, you’ll surely love the new spot! Most of the decor had to be replaced, giving the pub a new look with the same English feel. One thing that will never change is the hospitality you can expect as you’ll often find Paula greeting customers and David, nicknamed “The Guv’nor”, mingling with patrons. The menu stayed the same; offering the same homemade English dishes with a few new specialties, including the Scottish Meat Pies.

With a new location to boot, the premier English pub is gearing up to celebrate St. Patty’s day like they always do - Special dishes like Corned Beef

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and Cabbage will be served up hot and fresh while the taps will be pouring Smithwicks, Boddington, Old Speckeled Hen, Guinness and plenty of other imports. There will be plenty of dishes to sample, such as the Big Ben’s Bangers n’ Mash or the Ploughman’s Platter. Be on the look out for live entertainment throughout the night including a live kilted-clad bag piper as Big Ben’s is opening early and closing late.

Haritgan’s Irish Pub If you live in Charlotte, you’ve heard of Hartigan’s and if for some reason you haven’t; you need to get out more because you’re missing out! Hartigan’s is known to encompass a little bit of everything from trivia nights, to country line dancing nights, to drag brunches - And for a place to sell shirts reminding patrons “You can’t drink all day if you don’t start early”, you can be sure this is ‘the’ place to go for St. Patty’s Day. Hartigan’s calls March 17th one of their craziest days of the year and this year is no exception. Doors open at 11am but the official St. Patty’s bash kicks off at 6pm. The party will feature a DJ, complementary corn hole, beer pong on the patio, and all of the traditional Irish foods, like Fish and Chips and Shepard’s Pie. Make sure to be there in time for the best St. Patty’s costume contest where the winner snags $50. Plenty of green beer and green jell-o shots will be passed around for the occasion as well as trinkets from Miller and Budweiser. And the best part of it all? No cover for the bash.

Connolly’s on 5th If your goal on the greenest day of the year is to find a good bar to hang out at with friends, Connolly’s has you covered! Feel free to grab a beer from the bar and make a new friend in this two-story pub but don’t forget to take a step out back and check out Connolly’s patio. Set up with flat screen TVs, corn hole and ping pong tables; it’s a completely different feel from the inside and a great place to spend a warm evening.

As always, Connolly’s will be counting down the days to St. Patty’s and will be offering a food menu (which they normally do not carry a menu) of traditional Irish food and as well, a DJ, Irish dancers to get you in the spirit and plenty of beer to go around.

Nikki Wilson, Dining Editor

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THE BEST OF THE CITY REVEALED

Thursday, April 14th 6pm – 10pm DRINK & BEER SPECIALS Giveaways | Live Music Hors d’oeuvres

culture

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entertainment

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E l e v a t e L i f e s t y l e . c o m 22

entertainment

“This Ain’t No Love Fest Either”

A Fight Lab Pro Mixed Martial Arts Highlight “Currently MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) is the fastest growing spectator sport … also #2 in fan affluence and #2 in brand loyalty.” -Kenny “The Pit Boss” Letts On February 10, I met the toughest guys in the city—Fight Lab’s own Kenny “The Pit Boss” Letts, Michael “Cornbread” Allen, and Tom “The Cooler” Bakley. We hashed it up about their lightweights, upcoming events, and FLP’s ever increasing fan base. Hosting everything from military base to charity shows, Fight Lab is arranging the finest MMA fights in the Southeast. Three years in the game, and this is only the beginning. Currently, they have 300 to 400 fighters who are free agents looking to get on a card, and spectators anxious to see who’s next.

The show starts with a little scouting, matchmaking and arrangement. Then the fight unfolds and, “You just don’t know whose gonna win,” Letts said.

“Unlike boxing where they’re protecting their franchise players and playing it safe, MMA fighters get locked in the cage and are fighting to win. There’s no staging or playing it safe. However, they fight with the most honor, hugging it out in the end.”

Getting the fight started is Fight Lab’s Michael “Cornbread” Allen, whose primary function is the “matchmaker” -- and he’s not the kind to set up love-fests either. He scouts stiff talent all over the United States, whether it’s high school or college, and recruits the best of the best. Months before putting on a show, he starts making his matches. And the guys start routine training. Mike described a day of training for one of his most recent fighters: “Preparing for the fight, my agent’s day looks something like this: wake up, proceed to a three-mile run, perform a sprint workout, sleep, then wake up to train Jiu Jitsu, fight another trained fighter, then repeat.”

And I take it that there’s a lot of training going on now as the next Fight Lab event is less than a month away. On April 16, Fight Lab presents “Misery Loves Company 4,” which is one of their larger series’ that they put together. The others include the EpiCentre series and the Air Force base series. “We put the crème de la crème on ‘Misery Loves Company 4’ which consists of three pro bouts and seven amateur bouts; this is a Pro-Am show.”

Fight Lab has female fighters as well. So ladies, if you are interested in performing as a lightweight, hit them up. They hosted the first sanctioned (take out the word “pro”) female fight in the state of North Carolina in April 2008.

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“It was the fastest knockout we’ve seen in the history of Fight Lab,” Bakley said.

“Eight seconds to be exact between Jenny Yum and Kristen Trull. Jenny Yum took the win by an eight-Second KO.” The guys then jokingly asked me if I would like to participate … hahaha … we all know that there’s too much pink in this fight.

I’ll pass and attend the next big show.

Though the Fight Lab isn’t well-known in the city yet, they still aren’t hosting small gatherings either. Fight Lab events already attract an average of a couple thousand attendees on a given night. Their sponsors include Sam’s Mart, Dr. Pepper, Monster Energy Drink, Bojangles’, Firefold and Brio Tuscan Grill.

“It is a whole lotta fun. We have people who follow up with us saying they had a discussion on the way out, wondering if they were at a fight show where a party broke out or at a party where a fight has broken out, which is by design. We have a DJ who plays a lot of high energy music, the competition is aggressive, and we’re just having a good time.”

On that note, I’m looking forward to venturing outside of this prissy box of mine and into a crowd watching an MMA fight with Fight Lab. I hope to see all of you at the next one —April 16, Grady Cole, “Misery Loves Company 4.” Can’t make the next fight? You can find out about more upcoming events on the North Carolina Boxing Commission Web site and Fight Lab Promotions Web site (www.fightlabpros.com).

Denise Gregory, Entertainment Editor NikkiPanache.Com

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nightlife

300th district Ever heard of the 300th district of Charlotte? Me neither, and I have been getting my rocks off in this city since I was 19, running around with a fake ID from a guy that looked like Borat! However, if you are looking for a new, edgier atmosphere, you will know of the 300th district come this March. The square between Sixth and Seven Streets on North College -- the 300 block -- has always been (to me) the epitome of downtown Charlotte. Traditionally, though, it’s been known as little more than just an alleyway … until now. Located within walking distance of the Time Warner Arena as well as most other attractions downtown, and now with easy access to the light rail, this is the city center of Charlotte’s nightlife. In fact, this little strip of clubs and bars is the alley that first roused downtown. When I walk down this alley I get chills … both good and bad. Pop-up videos of eerie late nights at Mytho’s, sucking down fish bowls at Have A Nice Day and waking up in Gastonia. Yeah, I think it’s about time this alley got a face lift. And after a few name changes and the remodeling of the two main buildings, I think it deserves a new name to define the area and wash away the old memories.

The first place to kick off and revamp this district is RE:PUBLIC, which is the building formally of Alley Cat. When you walk into RE:PUBLIC you are actually walking in their Arizona Room, the old space of The Hut. This room gives you a very personable ease while leading you into the main area of the club. The DJ set-up is dead smack in the middle of the front stage --where it belongs -- with plenty of room to grab cocktails on both sides of the club.

VIP seating here is the biggest in Charlotte; and is very plush to say the least, offering several premium services! Tucked in the side corner of one of the VIP areas you will find a small, quaint Tequila Bar, which (besides the go-go dancers) is what caught my eye the most. Here again, you will find the biggest selection of tequila in Charlotte; tequila I have never even heard of from parts of cactuses that I didn’t even know existed! Charlotte’s own Master Mixologist Stefan Huebner created the menu, which boasts artisan tequilas mixed with an exotic variety of fresh ingredients.

All are very obscure mixtures, but are exceptionally delicious. For instance, the “Tequila Flip:” Milagro Silver, agave syrup, cherry,

33

bitters, lime and egg white … yes egg white … and it’s surprisingly great, too.

For a nice eye-opener, try the Horny Toad! Not a tequila fan? Never fear … beer is here! From their list of five brilliantly mixed ‘cerveza’ cocktails, my favorite is “The Cure:” Bud Light, Domaine De Canton (ginger based liqueur), and pineapple juice over ice! I can drink “The Cure” and listen to The Cure all night long and be a very happy man.

Speaking of great menus, Counter Culture, a food concept within RE:PUBLIC, is set to open early spring, dishing out Route 66-inspired roadside kitchen fare, so stay tuned.

On deck in the 300th district is Phoenix, the former building of the Forum.

Expect three different themed areas of a top-notch club to open later this month. World-renowned guest DJ’s will be steady spinning through, with the help of The Sugar Society’s coordination. Keep in mind the namesake of this Phoenix is not the city in Arizona.

Think of the old mythological bird. The one that burned itself to death on a pyre and from the ashes another Phoenix arose. The Phoenix is recognized as a symbol of death and resurrection, and so is the story of the 300th district. Rest in peace, alley way … the 300th district has arrived!

Cheers, Sean Flynn, Nightlife Editor

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nightlife

prohibition is back But this time, you’ll be a fan!

Prohibition is back in the form of Charlotte’s newest bar scene – Step inside and you will step back in time!

Our bar is constructed from reclaimed wood and tin from local North Carolina barns, while the walls of this nostalgic watering hole are plastered with old quotes dating back to the Prohibition era.

While there is no bathtub gin on the menu, you can sip on some moonshine or one of our eight beers on tap. If you are

feeling up to it, you can even play bartender at one of our Draft Master tables which features a pair of beers on tap, so you can pour for your friends all night long! Reserve your Draft Master table for parties of four or more. If being a bartender isn’t your thing, we’ve got plenty of room to accommodate you along our expansive bar spanning 50 feet.

Prohibition is the perfect gathering place for your special events from bachelorette/bachelor parties to birthdays!

Make sure to schedule your parties in advance so you can take advantage of our special offers. Don’t forget to join our ‘Mug Club’, where you’ll enjoy daily draft specials and be a part of monthly gatherings.

We’ll show you a good time no matter what day of the week!

At Prohibition, we provide you entertainment from local

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and regional bands, as well as, DJs. Our second floor, 1,000 sq. ft. patio overlooks the bustling intersection of 5th and Tryon Streets is the perfect place to enjoy a frosty beer or a cool cocktail poured by some of Charlotte’s finest bartenders.

Starting Wednesday, March 2nd we will be kicking off their soon to be famous College Night, featuring $4 Moonshines, $5 Red Bull and Vodka’s, and $5 Vodka Bombs.

We invite you to check us out on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and visit our website at ProhibitionCLT.com for the latest on events and specials. Then join us at Prohibition!

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NOW OPEN! 200 N. Tryon Street | 704.358.4244 Corner Of Tryon & 5th Sts.

fitness

turbofire?

Whenever I lie awake in bed watching TV during the wee hours, I notice how many commercials are shown that are not aired during the day. I have been introduced to the “Flirty Girl Fitness” infomercial, and of course the “Shake Weight” infomercial along with other fitness trends, but the most recent eyecatcher was one for “TurboFire.”

What caught my eye about this infomercial was the humongous room of smiling people, jumping around and learning choreography in an aerobic style format.

The presenter was Chalene Johnson, who spoke enthusiastically about the program and was introducing music mixes for the demonstrating class. It was like watching my Zumba class sans the Latin music: very cardio-intensive and energetic. I laid in bed and watched in amazement! What is this TurboFire?!

I asked around and quickly learned that I wasn’t the only person unaware of TurboFire, so as any media-driven info-seeker would do, I hopped onto the Internet and began my research. As seen on the TurboFire Web site, the program boasts that it burns more fat than your regular cardio workouts … Then I began to think about it … The marketing in the infomercial looked somewhat familiar: Johnson’s testimonial interviews, selling the program’s DVDs and demonstrating the versatility of making TurboFire just as effective at home versus in a class.

As it turns out, TurboFire is only one of a dozen fitness programs under the “Beachbody” umbrella, their most notable being the highly successful P90X, which is used by fitness buffs and athletes nationwide!

Now it all makes sense! Similar to P90X, the TurboFire program includes 11 DVDs which are broken down into different classes with different durations. The goal of the program is to create a high-intensity environment that enables you

to burn more calories during and after your workout. Johnson concludes that even a good cardiovascular workout doesn’t warrant many calories burned after it is complete; TurboFire is supposed to correct that. With a $44.90 purchase, you receive a fitness guide, workout schedule, a lower-body band and 30 days to decide whether or not to keep the program. But judging from some of the customer reviews and a 4.7 rating out of five, you probably will not see a need to return the program: JDarley from Washington states: When Turbo Fire came out I was so impressed. The music is awesome, the HIIT workouts rock. They really push your limits. The 40-minute stretch does wonders for your body. If you push play and stick to a good nutrition plan you will see inches come off quickly and will gain strength.

Melissa from Arizona states: This is the best workout ever! I feel fantastic after every workout I do, and I always look forward to my next workout with TurboFire!

Maxygirl from the West Indies states: This is the first time I’ve ever followed a [Beachbody] program and my body is looking a lot better than what I started out with. My cellulite on my legs has improved drastically. I’ve lost 20 pounds so far; I’m on week 18. I know it could [have] been a lot more if I had been eating healthily all the way through this program but still my body is looking a lot more toned…

For more information on this new West Coast trend, call (800) 838-7176 or visit the TurboFire website at www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/ turbofire.do for more details. (I know I will!)

Til next time…

Monique Douglas, Fitness Editor

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fashion

le petite spa charlotte Tell us a little about yourself?

I lived most of my life in Montreal, Canada, which is where my interest in skin care began. Throughout my adolescent years, acne plagued my life. Being teased about my appearance, I became interested in the world of aesthetics. My curiosity in beauty and skin care started like most little girls: trying on mommy’s makeup and wonderfully fragrant lotions. And then in 2005, my career began when I supervised day spas in Raleigh and Charlotte. My years of experience with skin care led me to open up Le Petit Spa in 2010 at Sola Salon Studios. The needs and satisfaction of my clients run the heart of my business approach, which led me to be recognized in 2009 as ‘Best Aesthetician’ by the B.O.B. Awards for Charlotte Magazine. Le Petit Spa has also been honored to be a part of Fashion Week in Charlotte.

Can you tell us about the variety of different services that are offered?

Le Petit Spa offers an array of innovative face treatments; such as facials, lash tinting, waxing services, and threading. Threading is a hair removal technique which allows you to remove a line of hair at a time to create a more defined shape for eyebrows.

Our facials range from Vitamin C antioxidant cleansing, to medical grade, Jessners, lactic and AHA peels, and of course, the heavenly European 60-minute four-layered facial. Our skin consultations determine which treatment will be suitable for your skin type.

If medical grade chemical peels are administered, photographs will be taken for before and after looks. Treatments are focused on delivering the maximum long-term benefits to clients to assist them in feeling confident and beautiful.

What do you see in your future? Are you looking to expand?

Le Petit spa attracts a larger market share due to our competitive pricing. Appointment and walk-ins are always welcome, and online booking will be available in the near future. The care given often allows me to be successful in clearing up a skin condition that has plagued an individual for many years. The continuing education workshops I have taken in Dallas, New York and Florida have allowed me to educate my clients about their realistic goals for their treatment plans. We are anticipating launching a full-service day spa in the near future.

Are you involved in any fashion events?

Yes, we were honored to be part of Fashion Week in 2010, which was held at Butter at the N.C. Music Factory.

In 2009, you received a B.O.B. Award - What is a B.O.B. Award?

The B.O.B. Awards recognize businesses and professionals in different categories ‌ from best restaurants to best spas in Charlotte.

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What makes your spa/salon different from other places?

Le Petit spa attracts a larger market share due to our competitive pricing. Working toward healthy skin is more than just a single treatment at a spa ‌ it is the continued home care that I develop for your specific needs, including several approaches for skin therapy using essential oils to sooth the senses, freshen the skin, and relieve stress. Carrying a wonderful clinical line, SkinCeuticals and PCA has proven immediate results.

Le Petit Spa is a place where the customer always comes first, and the skin care is customized especially for the uniqueness of their skin. Relaxation and rejuvenation along with professional products and service make Le Petit Spa stand out above the competition. In today’s busy world, we need an escape to renew and refresh ourselves, and Le Petit Spa is the ideal place in Charlotte to fall in love with your skin again. We welcome you to our warm, cozy and unpretentious practice.

What line of makeup does Le Petit Spa carry?

We carry Glo Minerals which is recommended by dermatologists, plastic surgeons and licensed skincare professionals in the United States and abroad for camouflage following microdermabrasion, injectables, chemical peels, laser procedures, and to help calm and soothe a variety of skin conditions. Mineral formulations are talc-free, non-comedogenic and free of perfumes and chemical dyes, making them suitable for even the most sensitive skin types, including those with acne and rosacea.

Where are you located?

We are located at 6324 Fairview Rd. Ste. 103, across the street from SouthPark Mall in the Dupont Building. You can reach us at 803.493.0637, or for more information go to www.

LePetitSpaCharlotte.com.

Steve Caldwell 56

fashion

I’m sitting down with Michele and Sarah from Salon M2. Salon M2 just opened up last month in the Ballantyne area at The Village at Robinson Farm, which is a new, mixed-use and environmentally friendly (LEED Certified) upscale property.

Elevate: Tell me how you got started in this business.

Michele Matkovich: I am from the Upper Ohio Valley area and attended West Virginia University for my undergraduate degree. I moved to Charlotte in 2002 and I then attended Beauty School and graduated at the top of my class. I then secured a position at one of Charlotte’s premier salon and spas. I first started in the industry with former business leader, Margo Blue, at The Tahitian Salon and Day Spa. I studied under many local industry leaders as Marc Hill and Heather Baucom in Charlotte.

Providing me with cutting edge education and knowledge, I excelled and became a skilled and passionate cosmetologist. I was then introduced to national award winning stylists as Gerard Annuziato and Micky Hatoum, Eufora’s leading educators. I have been specializing in color, precision cutting, the latest texturizing techniques and strand by strand extensions by Cinderella Hair. I was Stylist of the Year for Eufora International’s Global Connection in 2009.

Sarah Mitchell: I am from Cincinnati, Ohio, and before I became a hairstylist, I was a dental assistant. After years in that profession, I realized my true calling and decided to attend Beauty College. After finishing Beauty College, I did an intensive apprenticeship at Cincinnati’s most prestigious salon, Mitchell’s Salon and Day Spa owned by Debra Mitchell Schmidt, commonly written about in Salon Today Magazine. Through Mitchell’s intensive training and continuing education I was given the structure and tools to become a passionate, confident, and capable hair stylist.

Elevate: How did you come up with your company’s name?

Michele and Sarah of Salon M2: Matkovich & Mitchell = M2 E: What made you decide to branch out and partner together to start Salon M2?

M2: Inspiration from many successful people in our lives, Don Bewley in particular, a personal mentor of ours, and founder of Eufora.

E: What is the main concept of M2?

M2: Eco-friendly, state-of-the-art, cozy atmosphere. Mentor based and education driven.

E: What services and specialties do you offer?

M2: Men, women, children: precision cuts, and texturizing services, Brazilian treatments, Cinderella hair extensions, and award-winning color services.

E: What is Eufora?

M2: Eufora is a NON- DIVERTED, aloe-vera based organic product line exclusive to independent hair salons who support us through education and mentoring.

Eufora never uses fluff ingredients that sound good on the label, but don’t provide any real benefit. You can count on Eufora to deliver substance without hype, because when it comes to quality, we believe there are no compromises.

E: Do you accept walk-ins or is it by appointment only?

M2: We welcome both, if you want to schedule an appointment call 980-939-1983 or feel free to stop in for a tour and new hairstyle.

E: What does M2 offer that no other salon can?

M2: We are open every day of the week, we are “green” and offer a great experience along with fabulous hair.

E: What made you decide on the “No Black Clothes” rule?

M2: We think it has become the “norm” and we want to set the bar higher for Salon M2. We wear trendy, sophisticated professional attire including black but not limited to. We like to dress like our clients, not like each other.

E: What products does M2 offer?

M2: Eufora is our exclusive product line; we believe in the company so much, it was our only choice. www.eufora.net

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E: What is your “Welcome Package”?

M2: We offer 10 percent off all new clients and 15 percent off three or more products.

E: What is your referral program?

M2: We offer a FREE haircut for every referral E: Tell us about the “TEEN-CUT Program.”

M2: We are open on Mondays 3 to 8 p.m., directly after our weekly staff training [which is] held on Mondays from 11 until 2. Our talented staff can offer 50 percent off on Mondays only from 3 to 8 p.m. for “teens” ages 13 to 19.

It is a way to extend services to our youth and a way to reach a new demographic that may not be able to commit to regular salon prices.

E: What are your hours?

M2: Monday: 3 p.m. - 8 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Friday 9a.m.6 p.m.; Saturday; 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

E: Where is your salon located?

M2: We are located at 8430 Rea Road, next to Cosmos Café in The Village at Robinson Farm Christine Younghans

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Charlotte’s First green salon award winning hair design luxury ProduCt lines

now oPen Salon Designed and Inspired By Michele Matkovich and Sarah Mitchell We Specialize in Precision Haircutting and Custom Hair Coloring, Cinderella Hair Extensions, Brazilian Hair Treatments, and Excellence in Customer Service. timelessexpressionsphoto.com

Located At The Village at Robinson Farm 8430 Rea Road, S140 Charlotte, NC 28227 980.939.1983 | Salon-M2.com

fashion

dwayne and rowshay!

I’m sitting down with Dennis Wayne Linens Jr., but most people call him Dwayne.

He is a hairstylist at 8 The Salon during the day, and by night he is a DJ known as Rowshay.

Elevate: What is your background in the music industry?

Dwayne: I have DJed in major clubs all over the United States and I supply personal edits and remixes to various record pools which are used by DJs all over the world.

E: What is your background in the hair industry?

D: I have worked and trained in just about every major city in the United States. I arrived in Charlotte in 2001. I worked as a stylist and educator for Carmen! Carmen! Salon e’ Spas ‘til 2006. I then took a year off from hair to focus on DJing. In 2008 I began doing hair part time at Salon Tribeca. In 2010 I made the decision to buckle down and get serious about hair. Now, I am here at 8 with a great team of stylists who are going to take hair to a level way beyond the industry standard.

It is just what Charlotte needed!

E: Tell me about 8 The Salon.

D: It’s absolutely amazing in every way, meaning it’s incredible to be a part of

a salon that has such a strong culture and foundation. We strongly believe in education and providing cuts and colors specifically for each individual client based on them and them alone. It’s also nice to be a part of a team where we influence and inspire one another.

E: What were your first thoughts when you started at 8?

D: 8 is unlike anything I have ever seen in the Charlotte area. When I first walked in, it just felt right. I didn’t feel like I was in Charlotte. There was good energy and a cool vibe. The owners and the team were all very supportive and welcoming. I knew that this would be the place for me to really get serious about hair again.

E: Where are you located?

D: We are located at The Village at South Park, 4310 Sharon Rd., Charlotte NC 28211. Or you can reach us at 704.366.0858

E: What are your specialties when it comes to hair?

D: Tailor-made haircuts and styles. I really put a ton of energy in giving the client not only what she wants, but also what she needs.

E: What is your favorite line of hair products and why?

D: Loreal Professional. It’s a great product that smells great and is simple and easy to use. It really eliminates all the guess work when styling your hair.

E: What makes your haircuts stand out, and what makes them different than anyone else’s?

D: My haircuts are all about bringing out the client’s good features. I also educate my clients on how to maintain these great looks on their own. I have noticed that a lot of hair dressers just cut hair for themselves or just do the same thing to all their clients. It also helps that I’m incredibly passionate about my work. Whether they’re sitting on the couch or out for a night on the town, I want my clients to look and feel amazing!

E: What clubs do you play in Charlotte?

D: Suite, Mez, Whisky, Kazba E: What do you enjoy to do in your spare time?

D: Spend time with my beautiful wife!! It doesn’t matter what we are doing. if I’m with her, I’m truly happy!

Christine Younghans

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A Charlotte Community Asset

On Saturday, April 16, 2011 the “PASSPORT FOR FASHION” event will occur at the Reelworks/Silver Hammer Studios, located at 817 Hamilton Street in the NC Music Factory, start time 6:30 pm. This event is to help raise funds for the homeless children of Charlotte (A Child’s Place) and awareness about saving the environment. To help make this event a notable success, Charlotte Seen partnered with Gilbert Iron and Steel (www.gilbertironandsteel.com).

Gilbert Iron & Steel is a Charlotte based metal processing and recycling business. Located on North Tryon Street, the company provides a valuable service to the Charlotte community by recycling tons of scrap metal that otherwise would be filling up our landfills. So for that, we thank you Gilbert Iron and Steel, for keeping Charlotte green and beautiful.

You too can help “Keep Charlotte Green” by allowing Gilbert Iron & Steel to service you and see how easy it is to earn money and help our environment by cashing in on scrap metal. They service commercial and individual accounts.

For more details on the PASSPORT FOR FASHION event on April 16, 2011 go to www.passportforfashion.com. A production by Charlotte Seen, LLC. (www.charlotteseen.com). Tickets sales online or interested in Sponsorship, VIP tables, or being in the evening brochure, please contact Rita Miles at 704.492.9846 or e-mail at info@charlotteseen.com.

PassportForFashion.com

Fashion Designer | Passport For Fashion

beth pilger | pilget designs Elevate: What is your background in fashion?

Beth Pilger: I studied fashion design at Parsons the New School for Design in New York City. I have extensive experience in both costume and fashion design, having worked in New York, London, and most recently, Charlotte.

E: What is your best-selling item?

B: Custom made-to-order dresses E: What type of fashion do you focus on?

B: My focus in 2011 has shifted to sustainability, and how this can be applied in luxurious and unique ways.

E: Who is the clientele you are going after?

B: Women who like to express their individuality, confidence and appreciation of hand-crafted unique fashion.

E: What inspires your designs?

B: My fall/winter 2011 collection was inspired by a recent Whitney exhibit of Georgia O’Keefe’s abstractions. I was most interested in O’Keefe’s use of sensuality and movement in her charcoal series.

E: What’s the newest hottest fashion item for spring 2011?

B: The introduction of Pilger hand-knit pieces in bamboo and cotton!

E: What is your fashion or design motto?

B: Design is a form of self-expression. Like an artist who uses paint and a canvas, I use fabric and accessories to convey my thoughts and ideas.

E: If you could dress any celebrity, who would it be?

B: Aureta Thomollari E: Do you live in the Charlotte area?

B: Yes, I am currently based in this area.

BethPilger.com

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PassportForFashion.com

Fashion Designer | Passport For Fashion

hanna lei taylor | 3 thimbles Elevate: What is your background in fashion?

Hanna: I studied fashion design at Radford University and interned with Araks in Manhattan. Last year, I was selected as an Emerging Designer at Charleston Fashion Week.

E: How long have you been in the fashion industry?

H: Nine years.

E: What is best selling item?

H: My figure-friendly designs.

E: What type of fashion do you focus on?

H: Ready-to-wear. My pieces can be dressed up or down; that’s the beauty of separates.

E: Who is the clientele you are going after?

H: The 3thimbles customer communicates confidence and independence through her dress.

E: What inspires your designs?

H: The events going on in my life. Early on, I was geared toward androgynous design. After my daughter was born, I began to embrace femininity with bright colors, ruffles and airy fabrics.

E: What’s the newest hottest fashion item for spring 2011?

H: Tights and knee socks in different opacities and all colors of the rainbow.

E: What is your fashion or design motto?

H: Write it down so it doesn’t escape you.

E: If you could dress any celebrity, who would it be?

H: Natalie Portman E: Do you live in the Charlotte area?

H: Not anymore. My family and I relocated closer to the Wilmington area last year.

3thimbles.etsy.com

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PassportForFashion.com

Fashion Designer | Passport For Fashion

luis carlos machicao | masticao couture Elevate: What is your background in fashion?

Luis Carlos Machicao: Presidential fashion designer from Peru. I [have] designed for theater, opera and TV (Peru), and movies (United States). I also appeared in New York Fashion Week 2010.

E:How long have you been in the fashion industry?

L: 25 years E: What is your best selling item?

L: My two-piece cocktail dresses.

E: What type of fashion do you focus on?

L: Couture E: Who is the clientele you are going after?

L: Women in their 30’s and older E: What inspires your designs?

L: Everything: Paris, museums, paintings, etc.

E: What’s the newest hottest fashion item for spring 2011?

L: A little Audrey Hepburn dress E: What is your fashion or design motto?

L: Class and elegance E: If you could dress any celebrity, who would it be?

L: Ashley Judd E: Do you live in the Charlotte area?

L: Yes www.luismachicao.com

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PassportForFashion.com

Fashion Designer | Passport For Fashion

tara davis | flow by tara davis Elevate: What is your background in fashion?

Tara Davis: Art Institute of Atlanta, and MFA at Academy Art University E: How long have you been in the fashion industry?

T: Started Flow in 2003 E: What is your best selling item?

T: My dresses E: What type of fashion do you focus on?

T: Contemporary dresses for the modern/vintage mixed woman E: Who is the clientele you are going after?

T: Women who love to wear dresses that are cosmopolitan but with a vintage flare E: What inspires your designs?

T: Everything from textiles, domestics and architectural design E: What’s the newest hottest fashion item for spring 2011?

T: Women will really have a great variety of dress styles to choose from. Tailored sheath dresses to volume frocks will be hot.

E: What is your fashion or design motto?

T: “Be ‘Best Dressed’” everywhere, anywhere.

E: If you could dress any celebrity, who would it be?

T: Jennifer Hudson E: Do you live in the Charlotte area?

T: Yes flowbytaradavis.com

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fashion

spring 2011 beauty trends. your beauty blossomed.

As spring is upon us, the purpose of my message to each of you is to inspire you to blossom right where you are. Of course I am going to share with you all of the fabulous spring make-up trends, but first I want to encourage you to realize more and more with each day that true beauty comes from within. Recognize your beauty and be sure to set your own trend! It is so important to express yourself with your “look.� It says a lot about your personality.

As you sift through all of the trends listed below, see what really speaks to you and your personality and make this spring season your season to EXPRESS YOURSELF, and allow your true inner beauty to blossom.

FACE This season, when it comes to the face and complexion, it is all about glowing, gorgeous skin. There is a huge focus on tinted moisturizers and liquid bronzer. I recommend using one to two pumps of liquid bronzer in your everyday tinted or untinted moisturizer. Keep it sheer. The overall objective is to even out the skin-tone without covering the skin. Remember, less is more. In the event you have blemishes that need extra attention, simply add a thin layer of a Vitamin E concealer to those areas. Most importantly, YOU want to be noticed, not your make-up. Keep it natural.

CHEEKS Probably my favorite topic! Why, you ask? Cheek color when done right, can be the most beautiful part of a woman’s makeup. This spring it is all about making bold choices with cheek color in very sheer textures. Your cheek color should look as if you’ve had a glass of champagne or just gotten off the treadmill, or as a fellow make-up artist says: “Cheek color should look as if you’ve swallowed a candle.” That always makes me laugh, yet it’s so true. It truly should look as if you are blushing from within. The emphasis of color should be on the apple of your cheeks. This season you’ll see bold oranges and pinks. My personal recommendation, get one of each and mix them together to create that perfect mix of warm and cool tones…gorgeous!!! This spring, let them see you BLUSH! EYES Season after season we’ve seen the smoky eye, but we are seeing the tide turn a bit. Suddenly smoky has turned to hazy.

It’s the season of the “hazy eye.” It is all about the colors blending and melting together. You want the depth of color at the lash line and on the lid, a medium tone in the crease and your highlight color under the brow. Blending is key. I 77

recommend MAC brush #224. It’s genius! As far as color is concerned, have fun. Color is certainly in, especially in hues of greens and blues. Metallic shades continue to reign. Stay away from glitter. You want sheen to the eye, but you don’t want it to look like you are wearing a teenager’s eye make-up.

Remember…express yourself.

LIPS BOLD, BOLD, BOLD! Yes, I said it. Those who know me know that I obsess over a nude lip, but I am so excited about the splashes of color for the lips this season. If I don’t put my client in a nude lip, my next favorite is a fabulous orange lip color. I find it interesting that many women shy away from orange and coral shades, because they are such a great color family for most skin tones. If orange just isn’t your color, then try a bold pink or a bold red. One important tip when going

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bold with your lip color: be sure to contrast it with a more neutral eye palette. My advice here, HAVE FUN! In closing, my hope is that you feel informed and inspired. I also hope you will take some make-up risks this spring season and truly allow your beauty to blossom. Listed below are some of my spring season must-haves. In the meantime, love yourself, love others, make an iMpact!

Stanley’s Must-Haves for Spring 2011 • Total iMpact multi-tasking foundation • Golden iMpact liquid bronzer • iWink iMpact mascara • Full iMpact crème lipstick (shade i’M confident) • iPop iMpact cheek color (shade i’M peaceful) • iGloss-HD lip polish (shades i’M special or i’M free) • #224 Brush from MAC Cosmetics (all color products listed are from iMpact color cosmetics available @ Fuze Salon) Stanley Owings, Creator/Founder iMpact Color Cosmetics

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fashion

ready-to-wear spring?

Spring is the time of year when the real stylistas begin to revamp their wardrobe. It’s just something about the change in weather that puts us all in a really great “fashion state of mind,” and this year is no different!

There are so many hot, trendy items in boutiques right now, but the style that truly tops the list is ‘70s glam. From pale, washed out denim and wide leg jeans to peasant blouses and wedges ... the ‘70s are back! One of my all time favorite stores, Zara International (NYC) has tons of these of-the-moment pieces, but if you still have any of your old light-colored denim skirts that you thought you would never wear again, now’s the time to break them out! If skirts aren’t your thing, try “The Wilder” jean by the hot, new brand “Mother”. This L.A. based line is so spot-on when it comes to flattering ‘70s fits, you’ll feel like you’ve just stepped out of a time machine. (Available at Nordstrom) Then there’s a new take on an old classic, the peasant blouse. And this year it ranges in a multitude of springy prints, merchandised in various ways. (Hint: Wearing this style is a great way to hide some of the extra winter pounds you may have put on while in transition back to your beach body. There’s nothing like a flowy top with billowing sleeves to make you feel chic and comfortable all at the same time.) Now,

don’t forget the shoes! Wedges go with almost everything and this season whether it’s a cork, leather or rope heel, it’s all the rage! Not your mother’s wedges at all, the new lower arch gives height and elongates the leg but is so much easier on your feet ... thank goodness!

Spring accessories are the outfit makers that simply cannot be overlooked. A notice-me-medallion on a long chain is the latest trend in jewelry. Costume or designer pendants add a dramatic tone to your look day or night and can be worn with your favorite sleeveless tee for a laid-back look, or for a more posh touch, layer on a light spring sweater or caftan. Speaking of which, caftans are such a style statement and perfect for the on-the-go sophisticate. Wearing a caftan in the spring can evoke the feelings of tropical, beachy fun and its light weight fabric will easily transition into the next few months. Another great spring accessory is color block handbags, believe it or not. Envelope bags with clean lines and sleek detailing is the newest shape.

Adding the color block design makes it fun and playful, appropriate for going out or for the office. Another fun way to freshen your look and add a little feminine detail are soft, pop color barrettes! The new way to wear them is with your hair swept to the side to create the illusion of bangs. And, no look is complete without designer sunglasses ... agreed? Well, if designer shades aren’t in the spring shopping budget, go for any style that frames your face and complements you.

The spring 2011 sunglasses selection is sure to suit the preference of those fashionistas who are ready to make their outfits even more “eye-catching”.

Now lets talk color! This spring, orange is definitely the new black.

It’s the season’s biggest color and it works in separates or head-totoe looks. And not to be outdone, bright pink, yellow and blue are

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standout spring colors as well.

Apparently, the brighter the better! But, don’t forget snake skin is a chic print and texture that always transcends trend.

Animal prints in general should always be considered a neutral color/print for your wardrobe.

And particularly this spring season? Leopard dots. The jungle has stated its claim on the fashion runways, but if you’re new to this trend, try adding one or two animal print accessories to your collection and quietly tip-toe your way in.

Most trends come and go but there are a few that stand the test of time and are essential to creating effortless style. Year after year, these classics are perfect for the spring season. First, a white blouse. Nothing can beat the clean look of a crisp, new white shirt and because it pairs well with everything, you can’t go wrong choosing it for any day of the week. Next, the always fabulous trench coat. Whether short or long, it’s the perfect addition for a cool day or evening.

And last, but certainly not least, a stylish pair of flats. Although chunky heels and stilettos are what’s trending right now, an amazing pair of flats are not only a welcome break for your feet and complementary to almost any outfit, but they can also help you get a jump start on spring shopping, comfortably!

How can you stay “In the KNOW...” and get personalized tips on how to keep your look chic? Check out regular style updates with T.Strong at www.stylemayvin.com and every Monday morning on FOX News Rising or email the StyleMayvin directly at stylemayvin@gmail.com.

T. Strong

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IN FOCUS photos by: Allure Photography

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Tickets available at LiveNation.com, The Fillmore Charlotte box office, Ticketmaster or charge by phone 800-745-3000.

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IN FOCUS photos by: Trip Bye

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IN FOCUS photos by: Trip Bye

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10th Annual Charlotte Bartenders Ball 02/20/2011

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ElEvAtE lifEstylE AwArds “thE BEst of issuE” dEmogrAphiCs | psyChogrAphiCs of ElEvAtE lifEstylE rEAdErs: female 55.4% | male 44.6% Age: 21-27: 25.5% | 28 - 34: 45% 35 - 44: 29.3% Annual income: less than 35k: 12.2% between 35k - 55k: 31.7% above 55k: 56.1% spECiAl EditoriAl Adv. rAtEs: 30% off rate Card prices for A 3X monthly Consecutive Buy includes online Editorial Article & Banner Adv. (A VALUE OF $150)

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