Forsyth Woman October 2026 by Forsyth Mags

HER NEXT FLEX:

A Brand Created by Jodie Brim

FROM PHOTOGRAPHER TO FOUNDER

O CTOBER 2026

GRANITE & CABINETRY

Granite . Quartz . Marble . Quartzite . Cabinets From template to installation, everything handled by our local team.

WINSTON-SALEM

GREENSBORO

1079 Hanes Mall Blvd (beside COSTCO)

312 Dougherty Street

336.765.2977 MON-FRI 8:30-5

4.9/5.0 Stars on Google

SAT 9-1

185 Reviews SUN CLOSED

336.574.2755 prostoneusa.com

Raleigh, NC ‘60 • jackson, ms ‘62 • nashville, tn ‘62 • Danville, Va ‘63

Reynolda Gardens

birmingham, al ‘63 • selma, al ‘63 • Atlanta, GA ‘63 • washington d.c. ‘63 — O N V I E W AT —

ORGANIZED WITH: MAJOR SPONSORS:

SEPTEMBER 17 – JANUARY 3

SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE

Compassionate, Experienced Eyecare

Dr. Carol Ziel

Dr. Susanna Ringeman

Dr. Charles Rice

Advanced Cataract Surgery Facial & Eyelid Plastic Surgery Comprehensive Eye Care Experience compassionate, expert care from our team of board-certified ophthalmologists. We combine advanced technology with a personal touch to help you see your best. Forsyth Eye Health and Surgery 2827 Lyndhurst Ave #204, Winston-Salem, NC (336) 842 -5477 www.forsytheye.com

NEUROPATHY is a Progressive, Debilitating Condition

Get Help Before It Gets Worse You May Have Neuropathy If You Are Experiencing: • Numbness • Burning or Tingling • Difficulty Sleeping • Sensitivity to touch • Pain when walking • Sharp electric-like pain • Diabetic nerve pain • Loss of balance

Patient Testimonial “Years ago I suddenly got to where I could not walk barefoot on tile floors without difficulty, and then developed balance issues, all of which I assumed was because of old age. After taking some prescribed medication for a few weeks with no results I read about this clinic in a magazine and thought, ‘What do I have I to lose?’ After just three days of treatment, the feeling in my feet returned. By the second week I was no longer relying on my cane for balance. I had been told by a previous doctor that a wheelchair was next for me. I would certainly look into what Aligned has to offer.” - Fred

CALL US NOW

GET YOUR CONSULTATION, EXAMINATION, DOCTOR’S REPORT OF FINDINGS AND FIRST TREATMENT ALL FOR $49 ($250 VALUE) for Forsyth Woman Magazine readers

765 Highland Oaks Drive, Suite 200 Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27103 (336) 930-0063 www.alignednc.com Dr. Joshua Katz, D.C. and Dr. Jessica Katz, D.C.

IN THIS ISSUE

8 | ForsythWoman.com

COVER STORY Her Next Flex: A Brand Created by Jodie Brim

Six Strategies for Making the Most of Things

Retail Gems in the Heart of Downtown Winston-Salem

The Haunting of Brookstown Inn

Fraleigh’s Boutique: Celebrating 45 Years & a Legacy of Style

Goldman Center: The Tried-and-True Deep Plane Facelift

A Simply 5-Step Portfolio Checkup Anyone Can Do

Keeping it Real: When Mamas Get Desperate

Comfort & Compassion for Patients & Families

A Unified Voice for Every Child

Halloween as Self Empowerment

omegawatches.com

E X P LO R E A S M A L L E R S I Z E SPEEDMASTER 38 MM

IN THIS ISSUE

10 | ForsythWoman.com

The Day My Vision Changed

THE WEDDING EDIT

October Birthstones & Birthday Flowers

Dear Reader

Forsyth Firsts: Rosenbacher & Bro. Department Store

The Window of Tolerance: Why You Snap, Stall or Snack

Aging Out: Can Anyone See Me?

Purpose Push: Do It Scared

Trying New Things: Going to a Grief Retreat

We Aren’t Relinquishing Anything

Conversations with Your BFF

60 70

Beauty Begins With Great Artists. At Aeracura Salon & Spa, every appointment is thoughtfully crafted by professionals who believe beauty is personal not one-size-fits-all. LUXURY HAIR Precision cuts & customized color EXPERT BEAUTY Professional makeup & brow services WELLNESS & SPA Head Spa, Halotherapy & more

Experience the difference.

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

REYNOLDA VILLAGE WINSTON-SALEM

Beauty. Wellness. You.

CLEMMONS

AVEDA EXCLUSIVE SALON I ARTISTRY BACKED BY NATURE. RESULTS BACKED BY CARE.

SCAN TO BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE

oly moly. To say I am OBSESSED with this month’s cover would be an understatement.

Jodie Brim is one-of-a-kind. She’s an inspiration to so many (myself included), and it’s truly an honor to feature her on our cover — and to also call her a friend. While she is holding a camera in this show-stopper of a cover photo, this story actually isn’t about photography. It’s about Her Next Flex, a community for women founders building their next chapter. I encourage you to read all about this new venture of hers, starting on page 38. As if this issue isn’t already special enough, we’re also THRILLED to bring you our Fall 2026 Wedding Edit! We know this time of year kicks off “engagement season,” so if you or someone you know is recently (or soon to be!) engaged, you’re gonna want to give them a copy of this issue. Starting on page 42, we’ve got vendors, inspiration and content to help make your big day perfect! SAVE THE DATE for our Shop Hop! We’re back with another self-guided shopping tour on Saturday, November 14th. The full store list and ALL the details will be released soon, so stay tuned! Y’all know how much we love shopping local, and this event is one more way we can encourage our readers to do the same. I’m looking forward to this one a little extra because it’s going to be an excuse for me to get a jump start on my holiday shopping!

PUBLISHER Brooke Culler Brooke@ForsythMags.com

This month, we’re very pleased to be bringing back our monthly Girls’ Night Out event as a collaboration with the Rosé at Medaloni Cellars event on October 6th! This event is a fundraiser to provide mammograms to underserved women in our community and is hosted by Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Outpatient Imaging. They’ll have a silent auction, food truck, live band and more! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I always like to remind ladies that breast cancer doesn’t “wait” for October. My mom is a two-time survivor, and my grandmother is a survivor as well. I’ve always been so proud of my mom for advocating for her own health… she found the second round of cancer on her own, and thank God she did. If you are overdue for your own mammogram, this is your sign to schedule one!! We look forward to seeing you at Medaloni Cellars on October 6th from 5-7:30 p.m. More details can be found on page 67. And before I wrap up this month’s note, I have to mention a getaway I took recently to Turks and Caicos to celebrate my mother-in-law’s 50th birthday! Let me tell you… I am already ready to go back. Sunshine, the most beautiful water I’ve ever seen, good food and quality time with the girls? YES, PLEASE. It was such a fun trip and the perfect reminder that sometimes you really do need to step away from the to-do list and just enjoy the people you love. I feel like a broken record, but please, PLEASE read through this whole issue. From cover to cover, we’ve got content for all ages and phases. And if you’ve flipped through this entire magazine and DIDN’T find something that interested you — seriously, send me an email! brooke@forsythmags.com We want to be a resource that our community looks forward to picking up each month. A magazine filled with valuable content, local stories and things that actually matter to the women who live here. Your feedback helps us continue to make it better.

This is the kind of thing that makes us love Girls’ Night Out. This group has come to every single GNO over the years, and even made this poster, complete with photos of their GNO memories through the years. “We GNO” ...and ladies, we YOU right back. Thank you for making GNO a tradition.

12 | ForsythWoman.com

Until next month!

EDITOR Keela Johnson Keela@ForsythMags.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Tamara Bodford

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Robin Bralley Jennie Hess

ADVERTISING Advertising @ForsythMags.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Jodie Brim Creative

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS JEJ Photos Jodie Brim Creative *others credited throughout accordingly

CONTENT EDITOR Meghan Corbett

SENIOR STAFF WRITERS Martie Emory Carolyn Peterson

OTHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Debbie Barr Jane Burnette Emma Citro Genevieve Condon June DeLugas Suzy Fielders Steven Gallo Amy Hill Taryn Jerez Jean Marie Johnson Debbie Lanier Debbie Linville Heather Oliver Antonia Monk Richburg Sheridan Watkins Kristin Yates *others credited throughout accordingly

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRODUCTION Stefanie Lyons

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT Flhy Marketing / Michelle Hyatt

WEB DESIGN/ MAINTENANCE

Brooke Culler, @brooke__culler Publisher

Next Wave Services

CONTACT ForsythWoman.com 888-892-3204

Forsyth Woman Disclaimer: Please note that the inclusion of stories and articles in Forsyth Woman magazine does not imply endorsement of products or people. The views of the authors are presented for information and entertainment only, and may not necessarily reflect the views of Forsyth Woman. Specifically, Forsyth Woman in no way endorses any claim associated with health and/or well being with respect to any particular person. We disclaim all warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. We will not be held responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any loss or damage that is caused or alleged to have been caused in connection with the use of, or reliance on, any content in this magazine. Forsyth Woman reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet Forsyth Woman standards. Submissions are welcome but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Forsyth Woman assumes no responsibility for information, products, services or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. ©2005 by Forsyth Woman, Inc.

the publisher perspective

SUCCESS

EVOLVED

Her Next Flex™ is a community for women founders building a next chapter that feels aligned, expanding their circle, and defining success on their own terms. HERNEXTFLEX.COM

6 Strategies

for Making the Most of Things

by J E A N M A R I E J O H N S O N

ome folks seem especially gifted; they know how to make the most of what they have and what they have to deal with. I used to think it was simply limitless optimism or a rugged “stick-with-it-ness” that carried them through challenges in ways that make others marvel. As I’ve thought more about this, I’ve come to see that, yes, attitude and tenacity are certainly factors; but, as with many things worth striving for, there is more to the equation. Making the most of things isn’t magic; it’s an ability that you can develop and strengthen with intention and mindfulness. Consider these six adaptable strategies:

REMAIN “TRUE BLUE”

Be who you really are. This can be challenging when you are bombarded with examples of who and how you “should” be, want and have. Your self esteem and self respect take a big hit when you buy into those external shoulds. Instead, start asking yourself: “Is this really me?” “Is this what I want?”

REMIND YOURSELF: I AM ENOUGH

If self doubt rears its ugly head in the process, adjust your self talk. Remind yourself that

14 | ForsythWoman.com

you are enough. That you have as much right to take up your authentic space as the next person. No, they don’t need to understand. You are inherently worthy and fundamentally enough. It’s a truth worth sitting with.

REENERGIZE WITH SOMETHING YOU LOVE

someone or even something you cherished. We humans need to grieve. At the same time, if we can embrace our gratitude for who or what was, we can make the most of a truly difficult situation.

I think of this strategy as a “will do” just for you – one that acts as a counterbalance to your many “to dos” that may be strongly focused on commitments and obligations. Making the most of things means valuing yourself by not putting yourself last. I have struggled with this many times in my life and eventually learned that my needs and wants do matter – and should be prioritized. When I treat them with respect, I am the better for it.

REMEMBER WHAT YOU CONTROL AND WHAT YOU DON’T

REFRAME A LOSS

REACH OUT WHEN YOU NEED TO

Loss and grief go hand in hand, woven into the fabric of our human existence. When they reentered my experience, I recall the words of my cousin who said when his mom passed from ovarian cancer: “I miss her terribly. But I keep reminding myself that I had her for 40 years. How lucky am I?” Now that is an amazing perspective in the midst of grief. I am sure that you can relate to the loss of

I often remind myself that most people are doing their best. Their choices – regardless of how they may appear to me – are in their control, not mine. The opportunity is on the flipside: I have the power and the agency to make the most of what is and to live my life with rich authenticity. That’s totally within my control. Making the most of things also means knowing when to ask for help or support. Whether it’s your BFF, your woman tribe, your mom, your pastor or a mental health professional, you don’t need to go it alone. Pride has no place here; wisdom and courage do.

It is your life. Make the most of it.

GO LIGHT. FOLD FAST. SPEND LESS. At just 25.8 lbs., the Golden Cricket LT Carbon folds sideways for easy transport while supporting up to 300 lbs. Visit us to see this brand new model in person! Lift Chairs, Mobility Scooters, Aids for Daily Living, Compression Garments, Wound Care, Wheelchairs and Walkers, and much more.

Why Choose Us?

• Conveniently located between Winston-Salem’s two hospitals • Over 50 years experience • Extensive in-stock selection • Experienced, knowledgeable staff

Delivery and In-Home Service Available!

Mention this ad to get

10% OFF one regular priced item!

Restrictions Apply. Limit one discount per customer. Products and services excluded from this offer: rentals, lift chairs, scooters, beds, and delivery. Not valid with any other offer. Coupon will be tendered to Forsyth Medical Supply upon redemption.

ForsythMedicalSupply.com 336-768-5512 | Monday - Friday 9 am - 5:30 pm | 3033 Trenwest Drive Winston-Salem

Lydia and Edie

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF NORTHWEST NORTH CAROLINA

Men’s Wrangler jeans turned into women’s flares, jean shorts with daisy trim embellishments, two women’s blouses with altered necklines and a men’s plaid shirt becoming a fitted women’s top (in process)

s one of the region’s most visible and impactful nonprofit organizations, Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina broadens its reach through mission programs, donated goods retail operations, workforce development and community partnerships. With headquarters in Winston-Salem, Goodwill provides workforce development and employment services to 31 counties of western North Carolina, and serves more than 33,000 people annually. Through the sale of donated items at 52 retail and outlet stores – and online through ShopGoodwill.com – Goodwill’s mission services continue to be made possible. Seasoned Goodwill shoppers are finding ways to keep that spirit of giving going strong – including two savvy young women in WinstonSalem who turned their hobby of upcycling clothing into a little something more! Young entrepreneurs Edie Clark and Lydia Stelter began “upcycling” women’s clothing for themselves about a year ago – and began selling their finished projects online in May of 2026. “We had more ideas than we could ever wear ourselves, so why not share?” Edie explains.

16 | ForsythWoman.com

Blending Giving Back with a Love For Fashion by M A R T I E E M O R Y

“Lydia and I have both enjoyed fashion for a while, but I think the idea to upcycle started because we wanted to be able to adjust our own clothes to fit us better.” Always finding really cool pieces that weren’t their exact size or style, the two found a way to continue enjoying the art of thrifting while giving back. “A friend of ours introduced us to Goodwill in 2024, and we were hooked,” adds Edie. “The hunt was thrilling, the environmental impact felt real and we were saving money.” As far as interesting discoveries, they have found quite a few pieces of genuine fur and even pristine mink coats. Perhaps the most fun – the two found a 1980s wedding dress they were able to mend and resell! And, there’s much more to their mission than matching outfits with new owners. “We both care deeply about the environment,” Edie explains. “Knowing that our shopping is keeping textiles out of landfills is very satisfying. Though no corporation is perfect, reusing the textiles already produced is certainly a better option than buying new. In America, an estimated

11.3 million tons of textile waste are sent to landfills each year. If we can reduce that impact with what we do, then we are satisfied.” The creative pair also appreciates knowing the money they give to Goodwill goes back to their community, helping people find jobs and providing ongoing training. And – as it’s finally October and Halloween approaches – many smart shoppers are on the hunt for unique costume ideas, tucked away in those racks or outlet bins. There’s no better way to save a little money and have some fun expressing yourself in clever and creative fashion! You can find Edie and Lydia’s “new” creations on Depop @edieandlydia. To learn more about the life changing programs of Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina and find donation centers near you, visit goodwillnwnc.org. Remember, the inventory at each store changes daily! Goodwill Industries of Northwest NC is located in Winston-Salem at 2701 University Parkway, 336.724.3621. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @goodwillnwnc.

YOUR BEST HALLOWEEN LOOK ISN'T IN A COSTUME STORE. Build a look that's uniquely yours with one-of-a-kind ﬁnds from Goodwill. Whether you're going glamorous, spooky, vintage, iconic, or completely unexpected, you'll discover endless inspiration for Halloween without spending a fortune.

GOODWILLNWNC.ORG

RETAIL GEMS in the Heart of

DOWNTOWN WINSTON-SALEM Clare Fader of Fader Real Estate Shares Her Favorites by M A R T I E E M O R Y photos by J O D I E B R I M C R E AT I V E

As owner of both Fader Real Estate and Best of Winston, the area’s largest digital marketing platform, Clare Fader is well versed at selling all the things we love most about our vibrant city. And nothing makes her happier than nurturing a strong sense of community and showing off everything the area has to offer. If you’re already a local resident, thinking of planning a move to Winston-Salem, or simply here for a visit, Clare is here to highlight the importance and a few of the perks of retail shopping in downtown Winston-Salem.

“I think sometimes even local residents forget there are great retail options downtown,” shares Clare. “Supporting these small businesses is key to the future! The combination of the pandemic and the Stevens Center being closed for renovations for so long has reduced the amount of people visiting the area.” With perfect fall weather just right for a stroll – plus the holiday season on the horizon – here are some of Clare’s favorite downtown spots she hopes you’ll visit soon!

JUST BE

LITTLE PEP

BOOKMARKS

DESIGN ARCHIVES VINTAGE & HANDMADE EMPORIUM

131 W. 4th Street (onlyjustbe.com) “This is my favorite place to pick up a quick gift for someone.” 634 W. 4th Street #110 (bookmarksnc.org) “I love it here because it’s one of the best independent bookstores in North Carolina, and one of the few nonprofit bookstores in the country.”

533 Trade Street NW (littlepepnc.com) “It’s my go to when I need an interesting bottle of wine to bring to a dinner party!”

636 W. 4th Street (shopdesignarchives.com) “A great place for some fun treasure hunting with my daughter.”

FANCY GROCERIES

MAST GENERAL STORE

516 N. Trade Street (mastgeneralstore. com) “The perfect destination when we have family visiting from out of state!”

VISUAL INDEX

600 Trade Street NW (visualindex.co) “Without a doubt, one of the most interesting places to pick up original art.”

562 Trade Street NW (fancygroceries.com) “The best place to find the most interesting men’s clothing.”

“I wish I could plan a Saturday afternoon for people to enjoy downtown!” Clare adds. “I would grab a drink at Camino, then maybe spend a couple of hours browsing at Bookmarks. Maybe enjoy a late lunch somewhere and possibly a film at Aperture!” Now, doesn’t that sound like a heavenly weekend itinerary? There’s never been a better time to take advantage of all the goodness downtown has to offer!

18 | ForsythWoman.com

When you’re ready to start your new home journey and explore all the wonderful reasons to call Winston-Salem home, reach Clare Fader at 336.575.7262, or email her at clare@faderRE.com. Fader Real Estate at ERA Live Moore is located in Winston-Salem, NC at 751 W. Fourth Street, Suite 110. Learn more about their agents and current listings at FaderRE.com – the Fader Real Estate team covers mostly Winston-Salem and the surrounding areas but also includes agents who focus on Greensboro, High Point and Charlotte. Visit BestofWinston.com to stay up to date on local events and trending hotspots to visit!

The Haunting by E M M A C I T R O

of Brookstown Inn

he brick walls of Winston-Salem’s Historic Brookstown Inn have spent nearly two centuries holding on to their secrets. By the time the sun sets during your stay, those very secrets may present themselves to you. Originally built in 1837 as the Salem Manufacturing Company, the building began as a cotton mill before eventually becoming a warehouse. After undergoing rehabilitation in the late 1970s, the building was transformed into the inn it is today. According to local lore, not everyone who once worked there has left. The inn is considered one of Winston-Salem’s most haunted sites, with many of its ghost stories coming from the fourth floor. The most famous is the legend of Sally, a mill worker whose spirit is said to remain in the building. According to the tale, two women living in the mill’s fourth floor dormitory got into a violent argument, and Sally was allegedly pushed down an elevator shaft and died. Over the years, guests have reported hearing a woman’s voice, footsteps and unexplained noises in the hallway. Some say they have seen a female spirit, while others claim to have heard the word “Mercy!” coming from somewhere in the building. Room 401, believed to have once been part of the workers’ dormitory, has become the source of many of those stories. But Sally is not the only spirit reported to linger.

when the property was being used as storage space before the building was renovated into an inn. There is no official documentation confirming the identity of the person, so the story remains part of the building’s folklore. The building’s documented history is compelling even without the ghosts. It survived changing industries and potential demolition before being preserved and transformed into the hotel we know today. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977, and its history is now displayed in an exhibit in the inn’s lobby.

Another figure, known as Eddie, is said to make his presence known through heavy footsteps. Other reported paranormal encounters include children’s laughter, whispers and footsteps coming from otherwise empty rooms in the inn.

Whether the footsteps belong to Sally, Eddie or simply the sounds of an old building settling in the night is hard to prove. But, for guests who believe the past can leave an imprint, Brookstown Inn offers something more than a historic overnight stay.

The story of Eddie is tied to another chapter of the building’s alleged history. According to an urban legend, a human skeleton was discovered inside a brick wall

The most interesting guests are the ones who never really checked out.

20 | ForsythWoman.com

Complimentary Consultation at Your Home or Office • Blinds • Shutters • Shades • Drapes • Automation • Window Film • Outdoor / Awnings

Mack Moore

Franchise Owner

Ask about Our Exclusive No-Questions-Asked Replacement Guarantee

Widest Selection Expert Service Best Warranty

At Budget Blinds of North Winston Salem, Mt Airy, Boone & The High Country, you’ll have the widest selection of window treatment options, from the industry’s top manufacturing partners. Our Design Consultants and Expert Installers will ensure that you receive the latest styles that are custom-fit to your windows. At a price point that matches Your Budget! Your Warranty package will be the industry’s best — and it even includes a No-Questions-Asked Repair or Replacement Guarantee. It covers Damage You May Cause! Ask for details!

Schedule your FREE consultation today.

Style and service for every budget.

336-701-5474

BudgetBlinds.com/NorthWinstonSalem

Celebrating 45 Years & A Legacy of Style by M A R T I E E M O R Y

ommemorating 45 years is C a remarkable feat for any small business! For Fraleigh’s Boutique in Clemmons, NC – long supported by the strength of family ties and sharing that same affection with customers – there’s even more to celebrate. Within those memory-filled 45 years, spent right in the heart of Clemmons, Fraleigh’s has remained comfortable and welcoming, while keeping up to date on the trends and styles they know their customers love. “We try to bring our customers a little bit of everything!” shares Owner Donna Merriman, who founded the boutique with her mother, Mary. “That means trending styles and colors, but also traditional styles in the colors we know are our customers’ favorites!” Family is simply the foundation of the Fraleigh’s story, and now everyone who walks through the door is family, whether you work there or shop there. Donna’s daughter-in-law and boutique manager, Ally Merriman, now continues this journey with her, and both are thrilled to see generations of grandmothers, mothers and daughters coming in together to shop! The love for Fraleigh’s has happily expanded – with good reason – and they have shipped to new customers in 45 states, plus Canada. As their social media presence continues to grow in popularity, followers look forward to Donna’s “live” promotions on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. It’s the most fun way to catch a glimpse of new offerings in the boutique and maybe pick up a few styling tips! “Our online presence over the past six years has played such an important role in our continued growth, and it truly kept us afloat during 2020,” Donna adds. “What started as one video a week grew to three, then eventually

22 | ForsythWoman.com

to nightly videos. It has been such a blessing to have people we’ve never even met look forward to seeing us each night – not just to see what new items we’re showcasing, but simply to spend time with us and become part of our family. That connection is something I never take for granted.” Over those 45 years in business, there are many ups and downs – changing trends, changing customers and changing times in the economy. “One thing I’m most proud of is that, through it all, our commitment to customer service has never changed,” shares Donna. “Whether we’re serving someone in the store, online or over the phone, that personal connection is still at the heart of what we do.”

Watch for updates on the Fraleigh’s Boutique 45th Anniversary Sale October 22nd through October 24th – including store specials and giveaways! For this fall season, Ally shares that neutrals, chocolates and earthy tones are having a moment; yes, wide leg jeans are still very popular; and the latest trend of matching sets is showing up in dressy, casual and athletic styles. Their Anniversary Sale will be the perfect opportunity to add some new favorite pieces to your current wardrobe and experience the muchloved Fraleigh’s tradition of impeccable personal service, paired with exceptional apparel and accessories! As always, stay tuned for Fraleigh’s live videos on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, and keep up with new arrivals on Facebook and Instagram @fraleighsboutique and at fraleighsboutiquenc.com. Visit Fraleigh’s in person for fashion, fun and fellowship at 2626 Lewisville-Clemmons Road in Clemmons, 336.766.7440. Boutique hours are Monday through Friday 10 am – 5 pm and Saturday 10 am – 4 pm.

336-766-7440 | FraleighsBoutiqueNC.com Monday-Friday 10am-5pm | Saturday 10am-4pm | 2626 Lewisville-Clemmons Rd. Clemmons, NC 27012

GOLDMAN CENTER for Facial Plastic Surgery

The Tried-and-True Deep Plane Facelift by M A R T I E E M O R Y

Deep plane facelifts are a frequent topic of conversation these days. Trending or not, it’s still the best choice for patients looking for the most natural results!

certification as a cornerstone of patient trust and professional accountability. His appointment reflects that commitment to those standards.

Dr. Neal Goldman of the Goldman Center for Facial Plastic Surgery knows this popular option well. While he specializes in cosmetic, aesthetic and reconstructive facial surgery – face and neck lifts are his most requested procedures.

Every year, Dr. Goldman also changes lives by dedicating his time to the HUGS Foundation (Help Us Give Smiles), participating in two medical missions to help children born with microtia (children who are missing fully developed ears and who have struggled with the challenges that brings). The HUGS team creates new ears for these children, but what they really give them is confidence and a sense of possibility. They also care for babies born with cleft lips, giving those little ones a healthier start to life and offering their families hope.

“I’ve been performing deep plane facelifts since the 1990s, long before they were in the spotlight,” Dr. Goldman explains. “Recent attention has introduced more people to the procedure, but for me, it’s never been about what’s popular. It’s been my go-to technique because I’ve found it consistently delivers the kind of comprehensive results my patients are seeking.” A deep plane facelift is an advanced procedure that rejuvenates the face by lifting and repositioning the deep facial tissues and muscles. Unlike a traditional lift that only tightens skin, the deep plane technique releases the retaining ligaments that pull the face downward, allowing the entire soft tissue area to be lifted. That means better results for the jawline and cheeks, avoiding the look of “pulled back” skin that often results from more superficial procedures. He stresses the importance of working with a board certified facial plastic surgeon to determine the best plan for you, with honest discussion of options for improvement, as well as treatment limitations. Dr. Goldman was also recently invited by peers from across the country to join the Board of Directors of the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. For years, he has contributed to the examination process and views board

24 | ForsythWoman.com

“It’s inspiring to use my skills to not only transform how these children look, but to truly change the way these children will experience the world, as well,” Dr. Goldman shares. The Goldman Center for Facial Plastic Surgery is located at 6318 Jessie Lane, Clemmons, NC, 336.245.9595, while the mountain satellite office serves patients at 717 Greenway Road, Boone, NC, 828.278.9230. Visit FacialPlasticSurgeryNC.com to learn more about their services and HelpUsGiveSmiles. org to read more about Dr. Goldman’s involvement with their mission trips. “I’m grateful I made the decision to have a deep plane facelift just months before my 80th birthday. I wanted to address changes I saw in my jawline and neck, and I’m thrilled with the results. Dr. Goldman and his team took wonderful care of me, and I feel rejuvenated, confident and excited about the years ahead. I’m proud I made this decision for myself and believe we should all have the opportunity to look as refreshed as we feel, at any age.” ~ Lynn E. (who also continues to refer friends and family to Dr. Goldman)

BEFORE

AFTER “Dr. Goldman’s professionalism was comforting as he explained the procedure and expected results. I trust him. The end result was a younger version of me, not different or a drastic change, just refreshed looking. After 18 years, it’s still true!” ~ Tamara M. “I split my time between NC and South Florida, so I looked for a plastic surgeon in both places. My non-negotiables were someone with stellar credentials who only does faces. A friend shared a glowing report of Dr. Goldman’s results and bedside manner, and what a delight it was to consult with him in the NC mountains! My first impression was of intelligence, honesty and a lovely personality that was lighthearted, yet serious, and thorough in his work. He showed me before and after shots and provided the information I needed. I am now two weeks out from surgery and can say it was a wonderful experience. The surgery was done at the beautiful Cannon Memorial Hospital, and it almost felt like a staycation! My results are better than I thought possible, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.” ~ Angela K.

GOLDMAN CENTER for Facial Plastic Surgery

Over 25 Years of Experience Specializing In Deep Plane Facelift I Necklift Endoscopic Brow Lift I Eyelids I Rhinoplasty NEAL D. GOLDMAN, MD Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

6318 Jessie Lane | Clemmons, NC 409 State Street | Greensboro, NC 717 Greenway Road | Boone, NC (336) 245-9595

FacialPlasticSurgeryNC.com

New Surgical Location in Clemmons

Making Dollars, Making $ense Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Marzano Capital Group is an other business name of Independent Advisor Alliance, LLC. All investment advice is offered through Independent Advisor Alliance LLC, a registered investment advisor. Independent Advisor Alliance is a separate entity from LPL Financial.

A Simple 5-Step Portfolio Checkup Anyone Can Do BY STEVEN GALLO, CFP®, FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Most people glance at their accounts, see that the balance is up or down and move on. But that surface check can hide deeper issues like unnecessary overlap or risks that don’t match your current life situation. A simple portfolio review starts with asking the right questions and being crystal clear about what each investment is doing for you. Here’s a five-step audit you can run on your own accounts:

1 LIST EVERY HOLDING AND ITS JOB

Think of your portfolio as a team. Every player, whether it’s a stock, bond, mutual fund or ETF should have a clear role. Growth. Stability. Income. Diversification. If you can’t explain what a holding is supposed to do, that’s a red flag.

2 SPOT HIDDEN OVERLAP

Many investors end up owning different funds that follow similar indexes or invest in the same set of companies. When that happens, the portfolio may look diversified on the surface but, in reality, a large portion of it is tied to the same stocks. This can limit the benefit of diversification. Compare the top holdings of your funds. If they all own the same big tech companies, you may be less diversified than you think.

3 CHECK FEES AND TRADING COSTS

When you invest, there are always costs like fund expense ratios, account fees or trading costs. While each one may seem small, they quietly reduce your returns over time. Even small percentages add up over time, so it’s important to know what you’re paying and make sure the costs are reasonable for the value you’re getting.

4 MAP RISK TO REAL GOALS

Are you taking more risk than you need or not enough? Compare your portfolio’s risk level with your personal goals and timeline. A 30-year-old saving for retirement has a very different risk profile than someone five years from drawing down their nest egg. You need to find the right amount of risk for your specific situation.

5 CREATE A ONE-PAGE KEEP-OR-CUT PLAN

After you’ve gone through the steps, summarize your findings on a single sheet. Write down each holding, its role, the fees and whether it stays or goes. The act of putting it all on one page forces clarity. Instead of a scattered collection of accounts, you’ll have a roster of investments that each play their part, working together toward your real world goals.

26 | ForsythWoman.com

A portfolio review is about shining a light on the details, so you can see whether your money is truly working toward your goals. And, while you can start this process on your own, getting a professional perspective can add context and help uncover blind spots. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered individualized investment advice. Investing involves risk, including potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Before making investment decisions, review your full financial situation or consult with a qualified professional. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk.

Triad Cushion Factory, a family-owned business established in 2013, began with a small, dedicated group of seamstresses in a corner of the family’s furniture store. Through years of perfecting our techniques and commitment to excellent craftsmanship and quality control, we’ve grown into Winston-Salem’s premier cushion specialist. Our passion is bringing life back to your outdoor space by replacing your old, faded cushions with beautiful, comfortable new sets.

Replacement Slings

Why choose Triad Cushion: • We have perfected the art of replacing any cushion you bring to the store with a brand-new set, custom-made to fit perfectly. • We use only the highest quality fabrics designed for enduring beauty and durability, including: • Sunbrella® • Ultraleather® • Phifertex Sling Material •

Any Shape or Size

Custom Projects

Support your local business. Meticulously crafted in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Personal Touches & Complete Services Custom Cushions: Guaranteed fit for any piece of furniture, bringing new life to your space. Replacement Slings: We replace worn-out patio slings with premium materials, restoring the look and function of your outdoor seating. Window Benches: Beautiful, comfortable custom cushions for interior seating areas. Throw Pillows: The perfect finishing touch, available in custom sizes and fabrics. Monogramming: Personalize your cushions or pillows for a unique, custom accent. Pet Beds: Durable, comfortable, and custom-sized comfort for your beloved pet.

2566 South Stratford Road Winston Salem, NC 27103

336-690-5569

triadcushionfactory.com

Walk-ins Welcome Monday thru Friday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Keeping It Real WHEN MAMAS GET DESPERATE by D R . D E B B I E L A N I E R

Who knows what it’s like to carry a burden you can’t fix? What about when someone dear to you is the burden you can’t fix? It’s one thing to survive our own heartbreak. Watching someone you cherish self destruct, controlled by addiction, consumed by depression… that’s a whole other level of pain, isn’t it? Maybe your loved one has walked away from everything that matters most…family…even Faith. They no longer talk to God or even believe in Him. They no longer talk to you. They set boundaries, LOTS of boundaries… to keep their peace, of course. I don’t know the specifics of your story, but I discern how sadness, even hopelessness, tries to lay on your chest like a crushing stone. You lie down, and you wake up with the same pervasive desperation. It feels like a stranglehold, squeezing the very life out of you a little more each day. Sometimes a parent’s greatest battle isn’t with their child. It’s with the despair they feel while waiting for something…ANYTHING…to improve. That hopelessness is hell’s favorite language. If the enemy of your soul can steal your hope, he doesn’t have to steal your miracle – you’ll quit before it gets here! Listen to me, weary parent. (This will go against every instinct you possess.) You cannot rescue your child through this one! If you had the capacity to remove the scales of deception from their eyes, you already would have. You’ve surely tried! Some battles, your love simply cannot win. ONLY JESUS CAN! This is what you CAN do – you can position yourself smack dab in

between your child and the real enemy seeking to destroy him or her! Your prayers can build an impenetrable barrier in the spirit realm. You can stand boldly in that warzone and declare, “hell, you cannot trespass the bloodline on my life and my generations! You have no authority over ANYTHING that belongs to me! As for me and my house, we WILL serve the LORD! We WILL love each other! I WILL declare this Truth until my dying breath! No matter what it looks like, IN GOD, I win!” Friend, Prayer has no limit until we give it one! God’s arm has not grown short. Your situation may be out of your hands, but it is NEVER out of HIS reach. Maybe it FEELS like God is absent. But, that’s a lie! Sometimes God’s silence means your faith must decide what it still believes. Faith is forged in the silence before it’s celebrated in the miracle! When you feel there is nothing to hold on to, grab hold of Jesus’ promise that He will never leave you where you are. He’s good for it! Maybe you have held on for so long that others think you’re crazy for believing things can turn around. Remember, your burden is not their burden. They don’t love your child like you do. They haven’t cried all your tears. Why should they decide how long you should keep persisting in prayer? Nobody this side of Heaven will EVER fight for your son, your daughter, more than you! If you sit it out, who will stand in the gap? Who will take out the giants that seek to obliterate them? Stay in the fight! Despite everything trying to make you quit, keep standing! Despite every piece you don’t understand, keep trusting! Desperate mother, I know you’re tired of being tired. Battle fatigue is real. But I’ve come to remind you, God has never had a crisis of faithfulness. His

Trustworthiness has never been on trial. He’s never failed; He’s never lied; and He’s never broken even one promise! God is proving His Faithfulness in your story one page at a time! Don’t close His book yet! Keep turning the page! I’m thanking Him for rekindling fresh hope in you even as you read these words! Say with me: SILENCE WON’T STOP ME! DELAY WON’T SHAKE ME! OFFENSE WON’T MOVE ME! I’M TOO DESPERATE AND GOD IS TOO FAITHFUL FOR ME TO QUIT NOW! MY FAITH IS STILL STANDING STRONG AND SURE!

For comments or prayer, please contact Dr. Lanier at HopeCommunityChurch.tv.

28 | ForsythWoman.com

Accepting NEW Patients Your Health, Your Schedule

Now Offering Online Appointments - Visit Our Website to Book Today!

Anthony L. Masciello MD, FACOG

C. Aaron Thompson MD, FACOG

Ray M. Braquet MD, FACOG

Ashtin Beckett MD

Ariana Patras DO

Jill Rosser NP-C

Jennifer Santos NP-C

April Toscano MSN, APRN, WHNP-BC

www.hawthorneobgyn.com 4605 Country Club Road Winston-Salem, NC 27104 • 336-768-3632

We participate with Novant Health and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist plans.

CHOICE AWARDS

2024 WINNER

PASSIONATE CNA HOME CARE SERVICE Comfort & Compassion for Patients & Families by M A R T I E E M O R Y

ince 2005, Nechelle Samuel has seen firsthand how the highest levels of care and understanding have been life-changing for aging patients, or those recovering from illness or injury. As Founder and Executive Director of Passionate CNA Home Care Service in Winston-Salem, Nechelle learned from her previous time spent working in a nursing home that many residents simply need someone to listen to their needs — and spend time with them. “I knew right then the type of business I wanted to start,” she recalls, already envisioning scenarios of aiding and guiding families at a time they most need help, but don’t always know where to turn for answers. Reflecting the company’s name, Nechelle and her team not only offer superior care — as needed for the patient’s particular circumstances — but also unconditional compassion. Their steadfast mission is to always provide quality services to those in need of assistance with daily living activities — while encouraging them to maintain as much independence if possible. “For some companies in the industry, this is just a job,” Nechelle notes. “But at Passionate CNA Home Care, we offer patients the very same love we would offer our own family members.” For much of these 21 years in business, referrals have been by word-of-mouth — from families who have witnessed the values, integrity, and kindness displayed by every member of the Passionate

30 | ForsythWoman.com

CNA Home Care team. Families as far away as Charlotte have been served, along with Davidson, Forsyth, Iredell, Randolph, Rowan, Stokes, Surry, and Yadkin counties. If the number one mission for Nechelle and her team is compassion, educating loved ones and designated caregivers is a close second. Caring for an aging family member can be overwhelming, which means directing families to all their available local resources is crucial — and time sensitive. “We also offer respite care when family caregivers simply need a break,” shares Nechelle. “That’s when we come in — and they actually have the confidence to take a vacation, knowing their family member is in good hands with our team.” She also stresses the quest many patients have just for their independence — which is a goal of the Passionate CNA team as well. As professionals, they are not driven by internal family dynamics, financial issues, or outside influences — they provide the finest care, with an attitude of honesty, heart, and professionalism. As Managing Partner and Marketing Director, Anthony W. Ingram spreads the word by

nurturing the core values behind Passionate CNA Home Care. “My mission is to bring quality care, dignity, and respect to every family we serve,” he shares. “We don’t just provide care; we build relationships and treat your family like our own.” Once a referral has been received, the team will send a Registered Nurse and a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to your home to design treatment plans that will protect the patient’s long-term health. Those who have suffered a recent fall — or are at a high risk of falling — can benefit from these services, as well as those who may not have regained maximum ability after a stroke or other health challenge. Count on their professional expertise if you are recovering from hip or knee replacement, or other orthopedic surgery — or simply if you need a boost with everyday tasks such as dressing, bathing, or preparing meals. They can even provide transportation to and from doctor appointments. In addition to respite care, Passionate CNA Home Care provides end-of-life care in a manner that reflects a family’s specific needs and wishes. Located at 3000 Bethesda Place, Suite 302, in WinstonSalem, NC, 336-8935242, you can also email passionatecnahomecare@ gmail.com for more information on referrals and services or visit them online at passionatecnahomecare. biz. Passionate CNA Home Care accepts referrals by physicians, social workers, hospitals, nursing homes, or directly from a patient’s family member or close friend.

Follow the crumbs... ...and turn every Midtown visit into a new challenge with our Crumb Trail Passport, running September 1 through November 30. Collect stamps as you sip, snack, share, and explore the menu, then unlock free dessert and appetizer rewards along the way. Complete all 16 challenges for a chance to win a $150 Midtown Cafe & Dessertery gift card!

151 S. Stratford Road | Winston-Salem, NC 27104 | 336.724.9800 | MidtownCafeWS.com

A UNIFIED VOICE FOR EVERY CHILD For a child who has endured abuse, telling the story once can be painful. Telling it again and again—to police officers, caseworkers, attorneys, and other unfamiliar adults—can intensify fear and trauma. Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) offer a better path: one welcoming place where professionals coordinate their work, children are heard with care, and families can begin moving toward healing and justice. Family Services established its CAC 25 years ago to reduce the burden that traditional investigations placed on young victims and their families. Today, it is part of a nationwide network of more than 900 centers using a proven model of intervention, advocacy, and prevention—bringing the right experts together around the needs of each child.

child-focused setting designed to build trust. A trained forensic interviewer asks non-leading questions while members of the multidisciplinary team observe from another room. The child can share the account once, in their own words, while investigators gather the information they need. For Mateo*, who had endured years of abuse, speaking at the CAC became a turning point. He was heard, connected with support, and no longer left to carry the experience alone. CAC Director Ernest Britton describes the commitment behind that work: “When you see a child at their darkest moment and say, ‘I am only here for you. I will listen to you, fight for you, and be there for you’—that is why I do what I do.” The promise extends beyond the interview. Advocates help families understand the process, locate resources, and stay connected as a case moves forward.

“We aim to provide a comprehensive, coordinated response to child maltreatment— reducing trauma while strengthening the investigation.” each number is a child met with patience, a caregiver given guidance, and a family supported through an overwhelming moment. Every child deserves to be heard, protected, and given the chance to heal without delay. With sustained community investment in these services, the Family Services CAC can continue providing one safe place, one coordinated response, and one unified voice for children when they need it most.

The results are measurable—and deeply personal. Last year, Family Services’ CAC “We aim to provide a comprehensive, coordinated response to child maltreatment— served 200 children and conducted 198 forensic interviews, and every youth surveyed reducing trauma while strengthening the reported feeling safe and heard. Behind *Not his real name investigation,” says J. Nelson-Weaver, chief program officer of Clinical and Community Services. That coordination is central to the CAC approach: law enforcement, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE & child protective services, medical providers, prosecutors, advocates, and SEXUAL ASSAULT CRISIS LINE therapists share information and plan 336.723.8125 next steps together. Children referred by law enforcement or child protective services enter a

32 | ForsythWoman.com

Family Services 336.722.8173 familyservicesforsyth.org

BECAUSE OF YOU, HOPE STARTS HERE When you give to Family Services, you are helping your neighbors have the stability, security and opportunities that allow families to flourish, now and in the future. Because you give, a survivor can find a safe place to sleep tonight, a child gets the strong start in school they deserve, and healing becomes possible for everyone in our community.

• Safe nights and supports for

survivors of domestic violence

• High-quality Head Start & Pre-K education for local children

• Hours of specialized counseling and trauma recovery services

Invest in life-changing support at familyservicesforsyth.org/give or call 336.722.8173

Halloween as Self Empowerment

by K R I S T I N YAT E S

ow long has it been since you dressed up for Halloween – as someone you want to be, someone you admire or someone who reflects who you are now? A loved one once told me that Halloween can be more than just dressing up, going trick-or-treating (or trunk-or-treating) and having fun. Of course, these things are all part of Halloween if you want them to be, but the day can also be a day of self empowerment. One year for Halloween, I dressed as Supergirl. I really needed a pick-me-up that year, and I wanted something fun and meaningful; and dressing as Supergirl was both! I felt powerful walking with my red cape flowing behind me; I felt like I was gliding the hallways at work. The emblem on my chest reminded me it was possible to be like Supergirl – to embody her strength in my own life. I still have this Supergirl costume, and in past years, I’ve worn it around the house when I’ve needed some encouragement! It has reminded me that I can be as fierce, determined and powerful as Supergirl. For other Halloweens, I’ve dressed as Poison Ivy, Autumn and a Sun Goddess Fairy. I made these costumes using clothes I already had or thrifted pieces. I chose these characters because of their power and whimsy, because they inspired me and because it was fun! It was more meaningful to me than a store bought costume because I decided how each character’s

34 | ForsythWoman.com

outfit should look to fit me, based on what I admired from their persona. I emphasized characteristics I admired in each costume, which helped me adopt the characters’ mindsets. And anyway, who doesn’t want to feel powerful not only in what they’re wearing but also in their life? Is there someone you’ve admired lately? Could you use Halloween to adopt some of this person’s characteristics? If you’ve already gotten your costume, no worries! You can still reflect, if you want. Why this person specifically? What drew you to them? What do you love about how this costume looks and feels? Is this costume one you might wear at home (or in public if you’re feeling adventurous), even after Halloween? If you don’t want to wear your costume after Halloween but still want to try this approach, you could try it with everyday clothes! Do you have a shirt or pair of pants that makes you feel powerful every time you wear them? A skirt, shorts or dress? A workout outfit? Loungewear? Lingerie? Robe? Shoes or slippers? Accessories? A coat? The outfit or item of clothing doesn’t have to make sense to anyone but you. If it makes you feel good, that’s all that matters! While Halloween is just one day of the year, you can make any day empowering by reflecting on who you want to be and using your outfits (even your home décor, hobbies, routines, mindsets, etc.) to inspire you to be who you want to be and who you already are.

PICTURE YOURSELF

celebrating with us!

Save the date! Join the LLA team for our annual birthday celebration! Enjoy festive food, drinks, and our exclusive, event-only offers.

Friday, November 6, 2026 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

6 5 8 0 S h a l l ow fo rd Roa d , S u i t e 1 3 0 Lew i s v i l l e , N C 2 702 3 336.945-2076

www.lewisvillelaser.com

The Day My Vision Changed by G E N E V I E V E C O N D O N

Sometimes it takes the possibility of losing something to realize just how much we take it for granted. For me, that something was my sight. I live with idiopathic intracranial hypertension, or IIH, a condition that causes increased pressure around the brain and can threaten your vision. But, I didn’t have years to adjust to that diagnosis. I barely had weeks. From diagnosis to brain surgery, everything happened within about a month. Right in the middle of all of it, I had a birthday cruise planned. So, I went. Looking back, it feels surreal. I was celebrating my birthday, looking out at the ocean, while this enormous uncertainty was waiting for me back home. But I went. I celebrated. I watched the horizon and took in the colors around me without realizing just how much those simple acts of seeing were about to mean. Then I came home and went to see a neurosurgeon. I thought I was going to an appointment. Instead, I was told I needed to be admitted to the hospital that night for emergency brain surgery. There are moments when life changes so quickly that your brain can’t catch up. You walk into a doctor’s office expecting to walk back out, and suddenly

36 | ForsythWoman.com

you’re preparing for someone to operate on your brain. There wasn’t time to slowly become brave. There was only the next thing that had to be done. Of course, I was afraid of brain surgery.

seen thousands of times without realizing what a gift it was to see them at all.

I’ll see my husband across the room. I’ll notice the sky or sunlight coming through a window.

Because that’s the strange thing about potentially losing your vision.

And I’ll remember.

I get to see this.

But I was more afraid of what could happen without it.

You don’t just become afraid of darkness. You become incredibly aware of everything that has been light.

I could lose my sight.

Then came surgery.

I wish I could say the experience made me appreciate every second of every day. It didn’t. I still rush. Stress. Worry about deadlines and things that probably won’t matter a year from now.

Before IIH, I never thought much about being able to see. I opened my eyes every morning and expected the world to be there. I drove, read, worked and looked at the people I loved.

And then came the hair.

I’m human.

When you’re having emergency brain surgery to save your vision, your hairstyle probably shouldn’t be high on the list of concerns.

And I still live with IIH. This isn’t a story where I got sick, had surgery and everything was tied up neatly with a bow.

Seeing was just something I did. Until suddenly, it was something I was fighting to keep. And, when I thought about losing my vision, my mind didn’t go to all the practical things I might not be able to do. It went to faces. My children’s faces. My husband’s face. Would I get to watch them grow older? Would I see how their faces changed over the years? Suddenly, I wanted to memorize everything. Their smiles. Their expressions. The way they looked when they laughed. The rooms in my home. The sky. The ocean I had just looked at from that cruise ship. All these ordinary things I had

But, I was still me. And I still cared. Thankfully, they saved half of it. Yes, half. For quite a while, I sported what can only be described as an unintentional punk-rock look. It wasn’t something I would have requested at the salon, but eventually, I learned to laugh about it. The hair grew back. But, not every reminder disappeared.

The shunt stayed. But, so did the lesson. The ordinary moments aren’t the space between the important parts of our lives. They are our lives. IIH threatened my vision. Emergency brain surgery helped save it. I came home with a VP shunt, half a head of hair and a perspective I certainly didn’t have when that month began. The hair grew back.

Today, I live with a VP shunt. It’s part of me now – a physical reminder of something I never expected to experience but also part of the reason I get to keep doing something I once took completely for granted.

My perspective didn’t.

I get to see.

I get to see this.

That realization still catches me. I’ll look at one of my children.

Now, when life gets busy, I try to look around at the people I love and the ordinary life happening right in front of me. And I remind myself: What an extraordinary privilege that is.

S TAY T O G E T H E R .

Thrive Together.

ThriveMore is introducing a groundbreaking approach to memory care with the EverTogether Residence, opening in early 2027 at Brookridge Life Plan Community in Winston-Salem, NC.

Designed for couples facing dementia, this first-of-its-kind residence allows partners to live together in a warm, home-like setting — not a clinical one. The thoughtfully designed circular building features 12 cozy homes surrounding a shared courtyard, blending community, comfort, and expert care. Each home includes a private studio for the resident living with dementia, ensuring safety and comfort when the care partner needs time away. Residents also have access to professional healthcare and memory care support provided by a consistent caring team.

The Care You Deserve. The Life You Built Together.

Accepting Reservations (336) 759-1044 | BROOKRIDGECOMMUNITY.ORG 1 1 9 9 H AY E S F O R E S T D R I V E , W I N S T O N - S A L E M , N C 2 7 1 0 6

“I learn what lights her up. And I learn the things she may not say out loud that she wants people to know.”

HER NEXT FLEX, A BRAND CREATED BY JODIE BRIM From Photographer to Founder photos by J O D I E B R I M C R E AT I V E

or more than a decade, Jodie Brim has had a front row seat to what happens when women founders build successful businesses and begin thinking about what they want to build next. She just happened to be holding a camera while it happened. Brim’s work with women entrepreneurs began behind the camera in 2012. What started as Jodie Brim Photography grew largely through word of mouth around Winston-Salem and beyond. By 2021, she had built a team, expanded into video and strategy, and renamed the company Jodie Brim Creative. “We’ve worked with more than 500 businesses, probably well over that. We stopped counting two or three years ago.” But, somewhere within those hundreds of sessions, Jodie’s role began changing.

She was still the photographer, but clients were coming to her for much more than photographs. The conversations surrounding their sessions often went deeper than the shoot itself. Her clients shared where their businesses were headed and ideas they hadn’t shared publicly yet. Jodie began paying close attention to what excited her clients and the things they wanted people to know but weren’t always ready to say themselves. “Creating an environment where a woman can truly be herself and express herself authentically is how you get the best photographs for her brand because it shines through in the camera,” she says. “I learn what lights her up. And I learn the things she may not say out loud that she wants people to know.”

October 2026 | 39

Jodie found herself helping clients communicate where they were going and turning their visions into something other people could understand. “I’m helping women connect the dots and execute their vision. I’m helping them live out their visionary role.” In many ways, Jodie’s own role was evolving right alongside theirs. Building a team moved Jodie further into the visionary role, with more of her attention going toward the direction of the company and the client experience. The identity she had built for more than a decade as a photographer was expanding, and Jodie began considering what else she could build from everything those years had taught her. At the same time, she kept hearing something familiar from the women founders she worked with. “I’m ready to come from behind the scenes.” “I’m ready to tell my story. I just don’t know how.” These were experienced entrepreneurs who knew how to make things happen, but the questions they were asking were changing. The question was becoming:

WHAT DO I ACTUALLY WANT NOW? Jodie understood the question personally. Her own evolution had pushed her to consider who she was beyond the role people already knew. As she recognized versions of that same shift in other founders, the idea became harder to ignore. Eventually, it had a name. Her Next Flex. The name is intentionally open ended because Jodie believes every founder should decide what her “next flex” means. It could be a new business, an expansion of the one she already has, a different role within it, more freedom, a creative pursuit or something she hasn’t figured out how to name yet. “She defines success on her own terms.” Ask Jodie what Her Next Flex is, and she’ll tell you simply:

“IT’S A COMMUNITY FOR WOMEN FOUNDERS BUILDING THEIR NEXT CHAPTER.” The woman she sees entering the community has already experienced success in entrepreneurship. She knows how to make things happen and wants to be more intentional about what deserves her energy and who surrounds her as she grows. That’s where Jodie’s philosophy of alignment-led business growth comes in.

DOES WHAT YOU’RE BUILDING ACTUALLY FIT THE WAY YOU WANT TO LIVE? “The woman in this community wants to make sure she’s in alignment with everything she does because she wants her life

40 | ForsythWoman.com

to feel peaceful and not chaotic,” Jodie says. “She’s been there, done that, bought the t-shirt.” “I bring really incredible women together and create experiences that help us build genuine relationships and have the conversations that make you think differently about what you want next.” That sense of belonging matters to Jodie.

It’s a philosophy captured in a mantra at the heart of Her Next Flex:

MAY WHAT YOU BUILD LEAVE ROOM FOR YOU. Find Her Next Flex at hernextflex.com and @hernextflex. Follow Jodie at @jodiebrim and Jodie Brim Creative at @jodiebrimcreative.

“I want her to feel like she belongs there immediately. Like she can exhale, be herself and doesn’t have to prove how successful or accomplished she is. I want her to look around and think, ‘I’ve found my people.’” The first way women will experience the community is The Room, an eight-week experience launching this fall through hernextflex.com. The Room is also evidence of Jodie’s own evolution. Photography and Jodie Brim Creative remain part of her story, while the years behind the camera have become part of the foundation for what she’s building next. Her faith remains central to that evolution, and she credits Jesus and a sense of calling with the pull toward Her Next Flex. “Three years from now, I see Her Next Flex growing into a leading community and lifestyle brand for women founders, continuing our mission of helping women align with their next flex while bringing more incredible women into the community.” “You’re allowed to want something different, even if what you have now is good. You don’t have to be unhappy, burned out or starting over to feel pulled toward what’s next. Sometimes, you’ve simply grown, and what you want has grown with you.” After more than a decade spent helping other women bring their visions into focus, Jodie is bringing a new one of her own to life. What she built before has become part of the foundation for what she’s building next.

“You don’t have to be unhappy, burned out or starting over to feel pulled toward what’s next. Sometimes you’ve simply grown, and what you want has grown with you.” October 2026 | 41

cassidypaxtoncreative + emmakendrickcreative

THE WEDDING EDIT A curated look at modern love, celebrating weddings in Winston-Salem and beyond. There’s something about fall that feels made for new beginnings, and perhaps nothing is more exciting than the beginning of forever. As engagement season kicks off, we’re celebrating one of our favorites: saying “yes.” Inside this edition, discover local wedding professionals, beautiful inspiration, thoughtful details and ideas for making your celebration feel uniquely yours. From the first plans to the final details, we’re here to help you take your “yes” all the way to “I do.”

October 2026 | 43

Words of Love

for giuliana and andrew, love was written into every detail of their wedding

by S U Z Y F I E L D E R S photos by B R E N N A N R I E D E R P H O T O G R A P H Y

ords are an important vessel for portraying love. Giuliana Ivey Giddings and Andrew Lloyd Dolge fully embraced words throughout their stunning wedding that took place in May 2026 at the Millennium Center. Giuliana shares that words of affirmation is her love language and the couple fittingly applied that throughout their big day. She asked her 5th grade teacher and lifelong mentor Mrs. Malvina Libsch to pick and read a poem of her choice during the ceremony. Her selection was “The Invitation” by Oriah Mountain Dreamer and the couple now has a copy of it framed in their bedroom. Their party favor to guests was incredibly unique and cool. They invited Chris Vitiello, known as the ‘poetry fox’, who shared beautifully intuitive poems on the spot for guests. “Our guests have not stopped raving about him and his talent,” says Giuliana. A final wedding touch involving ‘words’ was thanks to the venue itself. Inside the Millennium Center sits the Maya Angelou Bar. This special room honors American poet and longtime Wake Forest University professor Maya Angelou by showcasing her inspiring quotes on the walls. The bride (continued on page 46)

44 | ForsythWoman.com

Marisa Faircloth, PA-C 40+ Years Experience

Making Lasting Memories Your wedding day may be the most important day of your life. A day when you’re surrounded by friends, family and a photographer – a day that will be captured in pictures. Let Restoration MedSpa help you look and feel your best. From facial tightening treatments, Botox® injections, or Juvéderm treatments to permanent makeup, laser hair removal or teeth whitening, let us help you and your wedding party look and feel your absolute best on your special day and beyond!

Restoration MedSpa – Services Dedicated to You.

RestorationMedSpa.com

Winston-Salem Greensboro

336.999.8295 Empowered by Beauty Backed by Experience

(continued from page 44)

fondly remembers taking photos there with her bridesmaids and felt it was “such a gorgeous, emotionally charged, and unique space.”

a resounding yes. It was a surreal moment that happened in slow motion and I’ll never forget it.”

One Workplace Meeting. One Unexpected Love Story.

The proposal wasn’t the only surprise awaiting her that day. Andrew had also arranged an engagement party and had friends and family come all the way from Atlanta and Boston for it.

Giuliana and Andrew first met in 2021 while working together at a Raleigh-based sales consulting firm. While they both remain extremely grateful for that job as it brought them together.

The Moments That Stole Their Hearts

Andrew managed to pull off the perfect surprise engagement at Oxbow Estate in Clayton, from popping the question to an unforgettable celebration. He enlisted the help of Giuliana’s college friend Molly Rebenski who works in the wedding industry. Under the guise of a styled wedding shoot, Andrew surprised Giuliana with a custom designed ring that used diamonds from his late paternal grandmother’s ring. She reflects, “I couldn’t believe what was happening. I thought it was still part of the shoot but once my brain finally caught up, I gave

46 | ForsythWoman.com

Looking back on their wedding day, they remember best those first moments they saw each other. Giuliana remembers, “To take a moment at the end of the aisle with my parents on either side and sweeping my eyes across the room taking in all these people from such different threads of my life before landing on my soon-to-be husband was a moment I’ll never forget.” Andrew says, “There was a moment I had with Giuliana’s dad right after his first look with her and right before mine. In passing he said, ‘she looks absolutely beautiful’. It made me so much less nervous for my own first look with my soon-to-be wife!”

October 2026 | 47

Celebrating 10 Years of

The Barn at Reynolda Village Autumn 2026 marks a very special milestone as The Barn at Reynolda Village celebrates 10 years as one of the Triad’s most beloved event venues!

Reynolda Gardens offers discerning couples the opportunity to exchange vows in a private garden setting like no other.

The Barn charms and delights guests with its crisp white walls which seem to reflect the abundant natural light streaming through a multitude of oversized windows. Sunlight casts a warm glow across the polished concrete floor, creating an elegant and welcoming space that invites guests to stay awhile.

Just a short stroll from The Barn, guests can explore two acres of formal gardens, including the Greenhouse Gardens and a sunken garden divided into four quadrants with expansive lawns, border plantings, rose gardens and meticulously maintained boxwood hedges. Tea houses, bubbling fountains and pergolas complete this enchanting setting.

The elegance and bespoke details continue throughout The Meridale Room and The Wexford Room – named after two of the Reynolds family’s prized bovines – as well as The Silo and Foyer. Upstairs, The Village and Reynolda Lofts offer intimate spaces where smaller groups can meet and couples can prepare for their wedding day. The Barn offers something truly extraordinary beyond its beautiful event spaces. Through its partnership with Reynolda Gardens, couples have access to one of the most exclusive wedding ceremony experiences in the state. Available only when packaged with The Barn at Reynolda Village,

Choosing the perfect ceremony location can be difficult simply because every angle offers another stunning backdrop. Fortunately, wedding parties also have access to the gardens for photography throughout their wedding day, giving photographers endless opportunities to capture every beautiful petal, plant, portrait and pose. Transforming an iconic historic barn in the heart of Reynolda Village into a “best-in-class event venue for 10 years and counting” requires an experienced and passionate team. That is exactly what clients find at The Barn.

Amanda Sullivan Photography

As part of Wake Forest University’s Hospitality and Auxiliary Services department, the team at Reynolda knows a thing or two about exemplary guest experiences. Under the leadership of Director of Auxiliary Services Sharon Bohannon, couples and clients work closely with Associate Director of Sales Tabatha Renegar and Operations Manager Stacy Street to plan joyful, seamless and stress free celebrations. Sharon, Tabatha and Stacy bring nearly 75 years of combined experience in event management, venue sales, catering, event logistics and design. On event day, their high energy event support team is also on hand to ensure The Barn looks its best and that every client and guest enjoys their time in this truly special venue. Ready to see The Barn for yourself? There are two great ways to experience it. Visit reynoldabarn. com for a state-of-the-art virtual tour that offers an immersive look inside The Barn and Reynolda Gardens from the comfort of your laptop, 24/7. Or, for a more personal experience, simply reach out to schedule a private tour by calling 336.758.BARN. A gorgeous, light-filled barn. A historic, lush garden. And a passionate team dedicated to making every wedding day fun, memorable and elegant. The Barn at Reynolda Village began its life in the early 1900s as a unique and historic place. Ten years ago, it began a new chapter as one of the Triad’s premier event venues – and after a decade of celebrations, unforgettable gatherings and countless joyful moments, its story is only just beginning.

REYNOLDA T HE THE B ARBARN N a t atRE Y N O L D AVILLAGE V IL L A G E

In the Heart of the in the Heart of the Reynolda Historic District

Julia Wade Photography

Reynolda Historic District

Wedding Packages • Receptions • Rehearsal Dinners . • Micro Weddings .

Weddings Corporate Social

Hillary Muelleck Photography Hillary Muelleck Photography

Emma Jo Marsh Photography

Hillary Muelleck Photography

Hillary Muelleck Photography Nancy Ray Photography

WINSTON-SALEM,NORTH NORTHCAROLINA CAROLINA WINSTON-SALEM, 336.758.BARN 336.758.BARN sales@reynoldabarn.com sales@reynoldabarn.com www.reynoldabarn.com www.reynoldabarn.com

Chelsea Renay Photography

How to Look and Feel Amazing ON YOUR BIG DAY by H E AT H E R O L I V E R photo by E N C H A N T E D H I L L S P H O T O G R A P H Y

The love of your life popped the question, and you said yes. Congratulations! Now you begin your wedding planning adventure. As incredible of a life milestone that it is, we understand how overwhelming planning it all can be.

•

Alkali specializes in weddings and provides an inclusive, luxurious experience for all couples embarking on their life journey together. In fact, pampering you and your wedding party is one of the things we take the greatest joy in. We offer upscale on-site services that will have you looking and feeling your best throughout the process, all the way through your big day.

•

We’re here to help!

To make your life easier, we’ve done the self-care planning for you! Our bridal team are experts at tailoring your beauty needs based on your unique timeline and wedding theme. But we take it well beyond hair and makeup. We’ll beautify and pamper you from head to toe.

Beauty Planning Tips: Plan Your Dream Look

While it might not seem like it, planning the details of your hair and self-care goals early will help reduce the stress of planning everything and ensure you have the look of your dreams on your wedding day and all the events in between.

HAIR

It’s easy to only think about how your hair will look on your big day, but there’s a lot more to consider than your day-of look. • Condition of hair The condition of your hair affects shine, fullness, bounciness, and youthfulness, and how well a style will hold in your hair. • Hair color, cut, and length goals The week before a big event is not the time to decide what hair color or cut you want on your big day. Make that decision early on, and if your hair is in a certain condition or a different color or length now, you can work on achieving your desired look over the course of your journey.

SKIN

Don’t forget about your skin! The key to having healthy, beautiful skin on your wedding day is by treating any issues beforehand, doing regular maintenance, and following an effective at-home skin care routine. We can help keep your skin clear, help with fine lines, make sure your skin is silky smooth and hair free, and provide facial balancing so your photos look spectacular.

•

Facials Regular facials during the planning stage will keep your skin clear and glowing for gorgeous photos. Hair removal Get rid of unwanted facial and body hair for silky smooth skin on your big day. Injectables Whether you want facial balancing, plumper features, or to erase fine lines and wrinkles, we’ll make sure you look stunning in all your photos.

NAILS

Your fingernails and toenails are also an important part of your big day look. Perfectly manicured nails can complete a look, give you confidence, and happy feet will make you feel more relaxed and confident for when it’s time to change out of the wedding or event attire. • Manicure, gel extensions, and pedicure Whether you want to wear your nails short or long, we’ll make sure you have the perfect length for your big day, as well as making sure your feet and toes look and feel amazing. • Nail art We’ll customize your nails to match any color and theme.

BODY

One of the most neglected parts of planning a wedding is your body. Self-care is just as important as your look. Taking care of yourself and getting pampered during the planning stage will help you deal with the infamous wedding-planning stress and ensure you feel incredible the day of. • Japanese Head Spa Excellent for hair and scalp, stress relief, and more • Massage therapy Melt away your aches and pains and get some muchneeded relaxation • Body wraps Give your entire body a “facial” with a luxurious body wrap that will give your entire body a glow

Scan the QR code to download our Beauty Timeline & Planner!

Our unparalleled wedding catering services, provide a full catering program on one of the most important days of your life. Let our Winston-Salem, NC catering services make your special day truly unforgettable while meeting your budget.

elevatedcateringcompany.com

919-500-2547

info@elevatedcateringcompany.com

@elevated_catering_co

THE MILLENNIUM CENTER

Downtown Elegance at its Finest by M A R T I E E M O R Y

With its convenient and authentically grand location in downtown Winston-Salem’s Arts District, the Millennium Event Center evokes a feeling of timeless elegance for your wedding celebration. As the largest privately owned venue in the Triad, the Millennium Center is a historic city landmark in its own right – originally built in 1906 as a federal building that housed the Post Office, federal offices and military enlistment offices. In 1994, Greg Carlyle purchased the building and has created a special event venue focused on weddings, meetings and celebration. It has been graced with endless reasons why it’s the perfect spot to celebrate your upcoming marriage! Three stunning floor levels are available to choose from, including The Jazz Club, Speakeasy and Red Room on the lower level; the Historic Courtroom and City View Room on the upper level; and the lovely Grand Lobby and Millennium Ballroom on the main level. Each level shares a unique ambiance with guests and plenty of space for your ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner and dancing. Dressing areas are also available for the bridal party. With 30+ years under the same ownership and management, every element of this beautiful downtown venue has been established, and refined, to pure perfection.

52 | ForsythWoman.com

“Every detail about a large wedding is significant, and our experienced staff is built for these types of events,” shares Greg Carlyle, president and CEO of the venue, who’ll be the first to advise engaged couples to also hire a day-of coordinator who will work closely with the venue’s trusted event manager. With a spacious lobby, multiple bars and a well designed ballroom with an open floor plan, the Millennium Center also allows guests to move through the entire event with ease which is crucial to a smooth celebration. The flow of the event can be enhanced with pretty signage or a good DJ or emcee to encourage where guests should be next, but a well planned space is essential! “We can seat up to 350 guests, with a large dance floor and permanent stage,” Greg adds. The Millennium Center boasts 500+ five star reviews online. In-house amenities include a professional audio and built-in video system, special lighting, dance floors, reserved parking on site for up to 10 vehicles and parking for vendors, along with convenient, safe and reasonably priced parking within one block for guests. Valet parking, shuttle and driver can also be requested by the hour, plus security is provided and there are no set curfews. Always greeted by rave reviews, the Millennium Center provides an experienced

culinary team offering in-house artisan catering via plated dinners, stations or buffet options, as well as an in-house floral and decorating service, if you choose. An experienced wait staff, bartenders, cake cutting, cake bases, plates, napkins and table linens are also included. While the venue generally doesn’t allow outside food or bar service, exceptions can be made for multicultural celebrations. (And don’t forget to schedule your complimentary food tasting for up to four guests!) Out and about around the Millennium Center, you’ll find more than 500 hotel rooms within walking distance, at all price points, as well as inviting restaurants, galleries, shopping and other unique local attractions. With so many amenities included and provided in house, choosing the Millennium Center is a wonderful way to streamline your wedding planning. Cheers to a stress free beginning to your new life together! Recognized as one of the south’s most celebrated wedding venues, the magic of the Millennium Center awaits your celebration – conveniently located at 101 W. 5th Street in Winston-Salem, NC. For more information, reach them at 336.723.3700 or at millenniumcenterinfo@gmail.com. Follow the venue on Instagram @themillenniumcenter and visit millenniumevents.ws to view available event spaces and request a wedding consultation.

Millennium Center

More Than a Menu An Exceptional Dining Experience by M A R T I E E M O R Y

No pre-portioning and having your dinner sitting under a heat lamp!

very element of wedding planning is deeply personal — from the smallest detail to the overall “feeling” guests leave with at the end of the night!

“To highlight one of our specialty stations — fresh, chef shucked oysters from the coast are a showstopper at weddings, for sure,” Brian explains. “We do a pickle bar that’s pretty extensive, with crackers and assorted hot sauces, and we make our own in-house pickles. One of them includes Lexington BBQ pickled squash mignonette with pickled red onions, champagne pickled white onions and fresh horseradish, and the other features pickled vanilla balsamic blueberries that are fantastic on fresh oysters! It’s definitely something different from what anyone else is doing around town.”

For Brian DePaulis, Executive Chef and Owner of Elevated Catering Company, creating that perfect vibe means everything, as hospitality is the focal point and heartbeat of everything his team presents. For you — the bride and groom —that means restaurant-style quality cuisine and ambiance that surpasses traditional dining. Think modern, refined dishes paired with absolutely impeccable customer care from this full-service, fine dining catering company. “To me, ‘elevated’ means going above and beyond for our clients,” Brian explains. “We promise upscale, farm-to-table menus, centered around locally sourced North Carolina ingredients.” Brian and his team are realizing his dream to build the ultimate connection between wedding clients, their catering professionals, and the event space. Every detail contributes to the overall dining experience. “We want you to appreciate not just the food, but also the attention of our staff, and the ambiance we’ve created,” he shares. “We don’t just do weddings, we create experiences.” In a short amount of time, Elevated Catering has captured the attention of the WinstonSalem community and beyond — with VIPstyle, chef-driven catering experiences. Their culinary accomplishments have been widely recognized, with Brian winning Best Chef in Forsyth County in YES! Weekly — and

Elevated Catering winning Best Caterer in the Triad in YES! Weekly, for both 2025 and 2026. “These awards mean something because of what they represent — every couple who trusted us with one of the most important days of their lives, and every celebration and gathering around a table we’ve had the privilege to be part of – that’s what these awards are really about,” shares Brian. With 25 years of experience in the industry leading him to discover his true passion, Brian has realized a personal milestone by starting his own company to simply create good food for all of life’s occasions. So what’s trending in 2026? Definitely interactive food stations — where the chef will cook, assemble, and finish a dish made to order, right in front of your wedding guests.

Other popular options include an Asian noodle station, pasta station, and a flatbread station with some absolutely amazing toppings! Through a personal phone call early in the planning process, Brian listens intently to every client’s vision. Using already curated menus or something more customized to their needs is never an issue, as he knows flexibility is key. For a stress-free experience, orchestrated by the best team around and guaranteed to leave your wedding guests chatting about every delicious detail for months to come, contact Executive Chef Brian DePaulis at 919.500.2547, or email elevatedcateringco@ gmail.com. Visit elevatedcateringcompany.com to book a catering consultation for your upcoming wedding or other special event, and view more of their amazing signature dishes! And don’t forget to follow them on Instagram @ elevated_catering_company.

in season: Wedding Trends We’re Loving E

very season brings its own kind of wedding magic, and the best celebrations lean into what makes that time of year special. From spring’s fresh blooms to winter’s candlelit glow, these seasonal trends are inspiring weddings that feel thoughtful, beautiful, and completely of the moment.

SPRING: FRESH, ROMANTIC & GARDEN-INSPIRED

Spring weddings are all about new beginnings, making this the perfect season to embrace an effortlessly romantic aesthetic. We’re loving garden-inspired florals that feel abundant and slightly undone: sweet peas, ranunculus, tulips, lilacs, and flowering branches arranged in loose, organic compositions. For color, soft pastels are getting a modern update. Think blush paired with butter yellow, pale blue with fresh green, or lavender balanced by richer plum and berry tones. Bridesmaids can echo the palette without matching exactly, creating a more collected look. Spring is also the season for al fresco cocktail hours and garden receptions. Lounge areas tucked among the landscaping, patterned linens, and menus highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients make the celebration feel connected to its surroundings. For an especially memorable detail, consider a signature cocktail featuring herbs, citrus, or edible flowers.

SUMMER: COLORFUL, LAID-BACK & AL FRESCO

Longer days and warm evenings invite couples to embrace a little more personality. This summer, we’re loving bold color palettes— coral, cherry red, cobalt, marigold, and vibrant pink—used in unexpected ways throughout the celebration. Outdoor weddings are naturally suited to the season, but the trend is moving beyond the traditional tented reception. Picture a poolside dinner, a courtyard celebration, or a garden party illuminated by strings of café lights. Family-style dining and relaxed food stations can keep the atmosphere convivial and encourage guests to linger. Summer is also prime time for playful details. Serve frozen cocktails or late-night ice cream, offer personalized fans for warm-weather ceremonies, or swap traditional escort cards for colorful fruit, hand-painted tiles, or mini bottles of local hot sauce. The goal? A wedding that feels less formal and more like the best party of the summer.

FALL: MOODY, TEXTURAL & ABUNDANT

There’s something inherently romantic about a fall wedding, and this season’s trends are leaning into that richness. We’re seeing deep, sophisticated hues—burgundy, rust, olive, espresso, and plum—paired with warm neutrals for a palette that feels elevated rather than overly autumnal. Flowers are taking on more texture, with dahlias, chrysanthemums, cosmos, dried elements, and trailing greenery creating arrangements with plenty of movement.

56 | ForsythWoman.com

For tablescapes, layered textures are key: velvet ribbons, linen napkins, stoneware, taper candles, and wood or ceramic accents bring warmth to the setting. And when the temperature drops after sunset, embrace it. A stylish lounge with blankets, fire pits, or an outdoor bar serving spiced cocktails gives guests a reason to head outside—and creates an intimate, cozy moment later in the evening.

WINTER: CANDLELIT, GLAMOROUS & COZY Winter weddings offer an opportunity to create an atmosphere that feels completely transportive. This season, we’re loving candlelight in abundance. Clusters of taper candles, votives, and pillar candles can transform even a minimalist venue into something warm and atmospheric.

Rather than relying solely on traditional holiday colors, consider a sophisticated winter palette of ivory, champagne, chocolate brown, evergreen, or icy blue. Metallic accents— whether in the stationery, flatware, or subtle tabletop details—add just enough sparkle. Winter is also the perfect time to make the guest experience feel extra indulgent. Welcome guests with hot toddies or spiced cider, serve a decadent dessert, and create cozy seating areas layered with plush fabrics. And for a finishing touch, embrace the season with dramatic fashion: velvet bridesmaid dresses, statement sleeves, elegant capes, or a chic second look for the reception. Whatever season you choose, the most memorable weddings don’t simply decorate for the time of year—they make it part of the story.

Chelsea Renay Photography

WARM TONES AND ROMANTIC VIBES. PHOTOS THAT SPEAK TO WHO YOU ARE AS A COUPLE IN TRUE COLOR.

Based in Winston-Salem, NC vinesstudios.com 335-500-7913 October 2026 | 57

October 2026 | 59

Comfort Made Easy with Interior Design Creating a comfortable living room starts with selecting furnishings that make the space feel inviting while still reflecting your personal style. Sofas and lounge chairs with soft cushions provide a place to relax, while pieces such as ottomans, accent tables, and area rugs help create a sense of balance and functionality. The arrangement of furniture is also important; positioning seating to encourage conversation can make the room feel more welcoming and connected. Choosing furnishings with a culmination of different silhouettes and textures adds visual interest without sacrificing comfort. Fabrics and materials can further enhance the feeling of warmth within a living room. Soft textiles can be incorporated through upholstery, pillows, throws, and rugs to create layers of texture. Natural materials such as wood, leather, stone, and rattan can add warmth and character, preventing the space from feeling overly uniform. By thoughtfully combining comfortable furnishings with tactile fabrics and natural materials, an interior designer can create a living room that feels both visually appealing and genuinely inviting—a space where people want to relax, gather, and spend time. Our portfolio is listed on our website, junedelugasinteriors.com, under “Design Projects.” You can see some of our projects from the past 10 years and how we specialize in giving every home a timeless and elegant look that will last for years to come. The first step is picking up the phone and reaching out to our design team, who will serve as your designer and licensed general contractor, for a consultation. We look forward to discussing your dream design with you.

June

Transforming Spaces to Extraordinary! PHOTO BY JAY SINCLAIR

PHOTO BY JAY SINCLAIR

FROM START TO FINISH AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN! TURNKEY REMODELING • FURNITURE • LIGHTING • WINDOW TREATMENTS • FLOORING

junedelugasinteriors.com Premier Design, Professionally Built | 2575 Old Glory Road, Clemmons | 336-778-1030

Resilience and Rowing Solo by K R I S T I N YAT E S

Did you hear about Kelsey Pfendler, the first American woman and fastest person to row solo from California to Hawaii? One night, I came across one of her videos documenting her experience. I was captivated. How could someone be in the middle of the ocean, alone, rowing that far? It seemed impossible, until I continued watching Kelsey’s videos. Kelsey, who is 32, has been a professional raft guide since she was 18. She previously rowed from California to Hawaii with three other women in 2024. And, for her solo row, she prepared for two years, training in the gym and preparing necessities, survival materials and safety backups for both herself and her boat, Lily. During her row, which took only 44 days to complete, Kelsey posted daily video updates on her Facebook page, You Row Kelsey. Early into her journey, she shared why she was rowing: to raise money for The Whale Foundation which helps Grand Canyon River Guides access physical and mental health services. While sharing her experiences, Kelsey modeled healthy coping skills with several empowering and inspiring comments that speak to struggles we all face. Here are some of my favorites! Some days, the wind moved Kelsey east when she needed to head west. As she described, “You row all day not to make miles but just to keep what you’ve worked so hard for,” in other words, to keep direction. And she kept direction, by accepting her

62 | ForsythWoman.com

present conditions, knowing she couldn’t change them; she could only keep facing east. Because giving up wasn’t an option. “I’m hanging in there. Tomorrow’s going to be better,” Kelsey declared. And it was. The following day, when the current changed where Kelsey could move forward, she said, “I know it’s a cliché, but you wait long enough that everything does change. The weather changed, the circumstances changed and today has been spectacular.” Kelsey wasn’t initially aiming for the men’s world record; she just wanted to beat the women’s world record. However, once she realized she was ahead of the women’s record, she did the math to see how much she’d need to row each day to beat the men’s record. Though she didn’t believe it was possible, most days Kelsey met or surpassed the numbers needed to beat the men’s record. Despite her doubts, Kelsey beat both the men’s and women’s world record! As Kelsey states, “I know it’s a pretty human thing, but it’s also a female thing to discredit your abilities even while you’re doing them.” Can you think of a time you’ve discredited yourself, even while doing the thing? I know I can.

Kelsey’s videos fostered community among women and girls in awe of her strength and success. Women commented that they were watching Kelsey’s videos each day with their children or grandchildren; that Kelsey made them think about their own dreams and capabilities; that little girls and women alike want to be like Kelsey when they grow up; and that they feel empowered to face their fears and do the thing. Kelsey did the thing. She got herself through it. And she did it beautifully, even while the world was watching.

We can do the same.

In the final video during her row, Kelsey encourages viewers to “think about trying to find your own big, hard, scary thing. You might not think you are strong enough to finish it right now, but you’re definitely strong enough to start it, and you’ll find everything else along the way.” PHOTO BY MANUEL DELGADO

October Special 20% off all Chemical Peels Peel Package - Purchase 3 peels and receive an additional 10% off all peels

Specials are good through 10/31/26

Plastic Surgery

Our Providers

Vest Mill Professional Park 1450 Professional Park Drive, Suite 300 Winston-Salem, NC 27103 336-713-0255 WakeHealth.edu/plastic

Lisa R. David, MD, FACS Anthony DeFranzo, MD, FACS Adam J Katz, MD, FACS Christopher Runyan, MD Bennett Calder, MD Thomas Steele, MD Elizabeth Farris, aesthetician

Se Habla Español

THERE’S GOOD REASON FOR HOPE

Poverty does not have to define the future of a community, family, or individual. Instead, United Way of Forsyth County is working in tandem with partner organizations to create a brighter path for the future of our entire community. Please join United Way to help reach its goal of hope, opportunity, and economic mobility for Forsyth County.

UNITED IS THE WAY WE MOVE FORSYTH FORWARD uwforsyth.org/forsythforward

October 2026 | 63

by TA R Y N J E R E Z

A monthly column that keeps its finger on the pulse of Forsyth’s artists and their inspiring stories!

Monica Cox | Painter This month’s featured artist, Monica Cox, creates work that encourages viewers to press pause and be present in each scene finding the most meaningful moments in everyday life. A lifelong artist and graduate of the School of Visual Arts in New York City, Monica designs truly immersive images.

How would you describe your work?

My goal is to create a scene where the viewer is present to be an integral part of what they are viewing.

What was your journey to developing your artistic skills like?

I’ve been drawing since I could hold a crayon, so advancing to graduation from the School of Visual Arts in NYC was a natural progression. Over the years, my skills continue advancing, as does my passion for my work.

How have you grown, personally, as an artist?

I feel I’ve encountered the most growth from my association with the incredible artists that call this area home and being blessed with folks who are able to connect with my art.

What is your secret for carving out time to truly be creative?

Retirement has been the biggest boost to freeing up time to be able to create when the “urge” can be satisfied!

Do you have a favorite story behind one of your projects and why? I have always LOVED horses, and growing up in Queens, New York did not enable me to own one of these gorgeous animals. When you see work I’ve done like Fence Nibbler or Lucky Grazing – painting them was the closest I could come!

What are you working on that excites you right now? I still enjoy challenging myself to try new techniques and approach my painting in different ways. Right now, I am experimenting with making fewer, bolder strokes to achieve a pleasing, exciting experience.

What is one piece of advice you’d like to share with fellow artists, especially those at the start of their careers?

Keep trying new materials and techniques to find the best format for yourself. Be patient with yourself; it doesn’t happen overnight! If you are interested in learning more about this month’s artist, you can find their work online at Artfeltimages.com or contact coxmj50@gmail.com.

64 | ForsythWoman.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2026

Grab your shopping bestie and make a day of it! Shop local. Discover new favorites. Find something special. Get a jump start on holiday shopping.

START ANYWHERE. SHOP YOUR WAY. No starting line. No complicated schedule. Just shop! Pick up your Shop Hop wristband + passport at Forsyth Humane Society. Choose your route and visit participating businesses throughout the day. Enjoy exclusive Shop Hop specials and discounts. Scan the Shop Hop QR code at checkout to check in. Check in at all participating stores for your chance to win the Grand Prize!

$800 GRAND PRIZE! One lucky Shop Hop shopper will win a custom artwork experience with local artist Elijah Kell of Kell Glass—creating a one-of-a-kind piece made just for you.

IT’S FREE TO SHOP! Advance registration is appreciated!

OCTOBER Birthstones & Birthday Flowers by D E B B I E B A R R

THE OCTOBER BIRTHSTONES

•

October has two birthstones: the opal and the tourmaline. Both stones are beautifully colorful, each in a one-of-a-kind way. Opals are unlike any other birthstone because they contain microscopic spheres of silica. As light passes through these spheres, it creates an effect known as opalescence, a shifting kaleidoscope of colors that is seen when viewed from different angles. The tourmaline is called the "chameleon of gemstones" because it exists in a wider range of colors than any other gem. Tourmaline comes from a Sri Lankan word that means "stone of mixed colors." Tourmalines can be found in every color of the rainbow, depending on the minerals they contain. Tourmalines can also be black or even clear. The most well known tourmaline is the rubellite variety, which ranges from deep red to pink in color. The most photogenic tourmaline is the watermelon tourmaline, which has a pink center and green edges. For centuries, the opal was the only October birthstone. Though beautiful, opals are rather soft and need careful handling. I can personally attest to this, as my mother's opal birthstone ring (which I inherited) is missing a tiny chunk of opal. Extremes in temperature can also cause opals to crack over time. On the Mohs scale of hardness (see sidebar), opals score between 5½ – 6½ while tourmalines rank 7 – 7.5 on the scale. The more durable tourmaline was added as an alternative October birthstone option in the 20th century. The tourmaline is also the eighth anniversary stone.

FUN FACTS ABOUT OCTOBER BIRTHSTONES •

Tourmalines can generate an electric charge when heated or cooled.

66 | ForsythWoman.com

•

There are 14 kinds of opals. One type, the "potch," or common opal, doesn't have the "play of color" that characterizes the more valuable version. However, the common opal has its own charm. It can be pink, blue, brown or yellow, with a waxy luster that is said to give it a glow. The most rare and most expensive tourmaline is the paraiba. Its electric neon blue or green color is due to a trace of copper in the gem.

•

According to mybirthstone.org, both October birthstones are "associated with emotional healing. Opal supports emotional release, while tourmaline promotes balance between mind, body and spirit."

•

The best way to clean both opals and tourmalines is with warm water and mild dish soap. Experts also suggest using a soft brush to remove any dust that may have lodged behind the stones.

THE OCTOBER BIRTHDAY FLOWERS

October's primary and secondary birthday flowers are both annuals that originated in Mexico. The primary October birthday flower, the marigold, has pom pom-like blooms that can be red, yellow or orange. Marigolds are a fitting October birthday flower because they continue to bloom through early fall until the first hard frost which, in the Winston-Salem area, typically occurs in early November. Marigolds were used by the Aztecs as a companion flower for crops. In Mexico, the marigold is still used in Day of the Dead celebrations. The pest-repellant properties of marigolds are, coincidently, protective for October's secondary birthday flower, the cosmos. Like the marigold, the colorful cosmos blooms until the first hard frost. Cosmos has tall blooms that can be white, purple or pink. Most cosmos are low maintenance and easy to grow, and some variants are perennials. One variety, the Cosmos sulphereus, is typically yellow and may grow as high as seven feet! Cosmos attracts pollinators – bees, butterflies and birds, including the delightful-to-watch hummingbird.

WHY DO SOME MONTHS HAVE MORE THAN ONE BIRTHSTONE OR FLOWER? Months with two or more birthstones represent different historical traditions and/ or cultural influences. All months have two birthday flowers. The flower agreed upon by most cultures is primary and the other is secondary, often due to availability or climate issues.

WHAT IS THE MOHS HARDNESS SCALE?

The Mohs scale measures a mineral's resistance to scratching. It rates minerals from one (softest) to 10 (hardest). Talc is rated one; diamond is rated 10. For comparison, a fingernail comes in at 2.5 and a drill bit is rated 8.5. The Mohs scale is named for Friedrich Mohs, the German mineralogist who invented it in 1812.

Girls’

Night Out

Tuesday, Oct. 6th | 5 - 7:30pm

You’re Invited!

$15 admission includes a

swag bag!

Silent Auction . Food Truck Live Band . And More! Join us for a fun evening of wine, food and fellowship to raise funds to support breast cancer screening for those in need. Early detection is crucial - learn more and schedule your mammogram at the event.

Outpatient Imaging

Grab your mom, your sister, your girlfriends and/or your co-workers and join Forsyth Woman Magazine for a much needed Girls’ Night Out! As always, we’ll have our prize board with tons of awesome prizes! Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @forsythmags for reminders and updates about our monthly GNO events! 9125 SHALLOWFORD ROAD | LEWISVILLE, NC 27023 | 336.946-1490 | MEDALONICELLARS.COM

Dear Reader by K R I S T I N YAT E S

Hope is a butterfly. It sees you, it flutters around you, it lands on the flowers you touch. It’s curious about you. And it comes when you least expect it. But, it’s here. It’s here. It doesn’t always look like hope. Sometimes it looks like a caterpillar, crawling on every leg, forgotten by the world but slugging along anyway. Because it has a life to live, it has wings to claim. And sometimes, hope is a chrysalis made from your shed skin. It’s hard to shed versions of you that no longer fit the life you want to live. It’s hard to believe letting go of one lifestyle will lead to a better one. But, this shedding is something you can’t look away from. It’s destined to happen. You’re destined to happen. What the caterpillar teaches us is that hope is instinctual. You know, with every part of your body, legs and soul, how to hope. You know how to notice it, how to make it, how to let it happen. You even know how to hold onto it, like your life depends on it. Because it does. Our lives depend on hope. We don’t search for what would nourish us and the kind of life we want because we have no hope left. We search because we have hope. We hope there’s something out there for us, in the world or in ourselves, or often, in both. I know it sometimes feels like there’s no hope. But sometimes, the hope you see isn’t hope just yet, but is in the process of becoming hope. It’s going through a chrysalis. The caterpillar is becoming a butterfly. So are you. It’s believed that caterpillars don’t know they’ll turn into a butterfly. But, even if we someday find that they do know, these almost mythical creatures nevertheless go through a transformation

68 | ForsythWoman.com

that seems unbearable, one that undoes everything the caterpillar has been so far, one that seems to lead to nothing but destruction. Yet, caterpillars become butterflies anyway. They trust the ancient wisdom of their instinct and let their bodies do what they know to do; they give themselves wings. We must be willing to do the same – to trust our ancient wisdom and let our bodies take us through our own chrysalis. We must be willing to give ourselves wings: the means and the wherewithal to truly be who, and where, we want to be. Our lives are like the caterpillar, the chrysalis, the butterfly. We don’t always know we’ll figure it out. When we feel trapped in the dark of our situation, or in the dark of current times, we can forget that we already know the way out. And sometimes, we don’t know we’ve become a butterfly – that we’ve already freed ourselves and allowed our transformation. It just happens one day. We emerge from the chrysalis. We learn what it means to not just crawl, but to fly, to birth a new version of ourselves, one that can lead us to the kind of life we so desperately want. The life you have now may not always feel hopeful, it may not feel hopeful at all. But, what may not seem like hope in one environment, or at one point of your life, may be strengthening you for the transformation you’ll soon undergo. Not because it’s meant to be but because you’re meant to be. You’re meant to be. So is hope. We don’t always know where we’re going or how we’ll get there. But, having hope and letting the chrysalis happen is a good start.

~ Hope

RETIREMENT

Kerri Stewart

QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor

THE STARBOARD GUARANTEE

The PERFECT

Free initial consultation for bookkeeping

Scan to Schedule Your Tour or Call (336) 770-2024

Active Adult • Independent Living

Assisted Living • Memory Care • Skilled Nursing • Rehab 3250 Homestead Club Dr. • Winston-Salem, NC 27103 (336) 770-2024 • Homestead-Hills.com

Complete, Accurate, Timely Bookkeeping & Financials

PAYROLL BOOKKEEPING QUICKBOOKS CONSULTING

336.397.4974

StarboardAccounting.com October 2026 | 69

POVERTY LOOKS DIFFERENT

WHEN YOU'VE LIVED IT by A N T O N I A M O N K R I C H B U R G , P H . D .

I know what poverty feels like. I also know what it feels like to rise above it. Today, I sit in a CEO’s chair, but I have never forgotten the experiences that shaped me before I had a title, a corner office, or a seat at the table. That is why when I look at poverty, I do not see statistics. I see people. I see children whose potential is greater than their circumstances. I see mothers making impossible choices. I see families working hard and still struggling to get ahead. And I see possibility, because I know firsthand that where you begin does not have to determine where you finish. Poverty is often discussed in numbers, but behind every number is a person. A mother stretching a paycheck until the end of the month. A father working multiple jobs but still unable to get ahead. A child trying to focus on school while their family worries about housing, food, or transportation.

And sometimes, poverty is invisible. There are families in our community who are working every day, doing everything they know to do, yet still struggling to make ends meet. They are part of what the ALICE framework describes as households that are Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed. They may earn more than the federal poverty level, but their income is still not enough to afford the basic necessities of life. As a woman and a CEO, I have come to understand how much women often carry. We are caregivers, providers, problem solvers, and, too often, the people making impossible choices when resources run short. We worry about our children, our parents, our households, and our communities. We know that one unexpected expense can disrupt an entire family’s stability. But my understanding of poverty is not based solely on what I see today. It is also informed by what I remember.

70 | ForsythWoman.com

I know what it means to begin without having every advantage. I also know that where you begin does not have to determine where you finish. That is why I believe so deeply in economic mobility. We cannot be satisfied with helping families survive one crisis at a time. We must create pathways that allow families to become stable, build assets, access opportunity, and ultimately break the cycle of generational poverty.

This is where United Way of Forsyth County is uniquely positioned to lead. Our mission is to bring the community and its resources together to solve problems that no one organization can address alone. Moving families out of generational poverty requires businesses, nonprofits, government, schools, philanthropy, faith communities, and residents working together toward shared solutions. United Way is more than a funder. We are a convener, collaborator, and catalyst for change. We bring people together, connect resources, and help focus our community on the conditions that create opportunities. Our goal must be more than helping a family get through today. It must be helping create a tomorrow that looks different. That means ensuring children enter school ready to learn, supporting educational success, strengthening families, connecting people to resources, and removing barriers that keep hardworking families from getting ahead. I believe in this work because I know what opportunity can mean.

Someone believed in me. Someone opened a door. Someone saw possibility. Now, as a CEO, I have the responsibility to help open doors for others. And I believe our entire community has that responsibility. The question is not whether poverty exists in our community. The question is what we are willing to do about it. Your generosity can help a child enter school ready to learn. It can help a family move from crisis to stability. It can help someone see a future beyond the circumstances they inherited.

Give generously to United Way of Forsyth County. Invest in a child whose future is still being written. Invest in a family, working hard to build a better life. Invest in a community where opportunity is not determined by where someone starts. Because I know what poverty can take away. I also know what opportunities can make possible. Together, we can help ensure that poverty is not a family legacy, but that opportunity is.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It's a time to highlight the importance of early detection.

If you need a mammogram or haven't had one, now is a great time to schedule. Regular mammograms are recommended starting at age 40, or earlier with a family history. At Hawthorne OBGYN, we offer same-day mammography with annual well-woman visits.

www.hawthorneobgyn.com 4605 Country Club Road Winston-Salem, NC 27104 336-768-3632 We participate with Novant Health and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist insurance plans.

October 2026 | 71

Forsyth Firsts Rosenbacher & Bro. Department Store by D E B B I E L I N V I L L E

A CORNER REIMAGINED

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, just a block from the courthouse square, the Hardy Boarding House stood as a bustling landmark run by Mrs. F.J. Hardy. It served as a lively gathering place where many of Winston-Salem’s business and tobacco leaders met for their midday meal. As the city expanded and its commercial center pushed westward, this once residential and mixed-use stretch began giving way to larger, more ambitious development. The Hardy Boarding House was eventually demolished to make room for a new downtown landscape. In 1905, Judge Henry R. Starbuck began redeveloping the site, commissioning a substantial two-story brick building at the northeast corner of Fourth and Trade Streets. Decades earlier – long before national chains shaped American retail – Sigmund and his brother Joseph Rosenbacher had founded their clothing and department store, Rosenbacher & Bro., in 1879 on Third Street across from the courthouse. The business quickly became a prominent mercantile presence. After Sigmund’s untimely death in 1893 at age 39, Joseph carried the enterprise forward until Sigmund’s sons – Sandel, Otto and Alladin – joined him, underscoring how deeply the store was rooted in both family continuity and the city’s expanding economy. In 1905, the Rosenbachers made a bold investment in their future by relocating to the newly constructed building at Fourth and Trade, stocking roughly 40 departments and installing one of Winston Salem’s earliest commercial electric elevators. Before their move, most retail activity remained tightly clustered around the courthouse square, while nearby blocks held tobacco warehouses, boarding houses, livery stables and even a granite tombstone yard. For merchants who wondered whether Fourth Street lay too far from the established commercial core, the immediate success of Rosenbacher & Bro. became a powerful symbol of ambition, modern merchandising and a downtown on the rise.

FROM ASHES TO OPPORTUNITY

In February of 1912, disaster struck when a fire tore through the building at Fourth and Trade, leaving only portions of its walls standing. Rosenbacher & Bro. – known locally as “The Busy Store” – quickly moved into temporary quarters at 420 North Trade Street. Judge Henry R. Starbuck soon announced that the structure would be rebuilt for the Rosenbachers, even adding a third story to meet their needs. The property, still owned by the Starbuck family today, seemed destined to welcome the store back.

72 | ForsythWoman.com

But, the unplanned move produced an unexpected result. Once settled into their temporary location, the Rosenbachers realized they preferred the new space on Trade Street. By May, Starbuck revised his plans: the rebuilt structure would rise only two stories and would instead be leased to Efird Department Stores, the fourth branch of a growing regional chain that began in Charlotte as the “Bee Hive.” Meanwhile, Rosenbacher & Bro. continued to flourish in their new location. By 1918, the store was celebrated as Winston-Salem’s largest department store, offering more than 100 departments – from millinery and dry goods to fashion accessories and ladies apparel – reflecting both the family’s bold ambition and the city’s booming commercial growth.

A FAMILY LEGACY BEYOND THE SALES FLOOR

Rosenbacher & Bro. was not only one of Winston-Salem’s most successful department stores; the family behind it also left a lasting mark on the city’s residential landscape. In 1909, Carrie Rosenbacher, widow of Sigmund, built the stately Rosenbacher House on West Fifth Street, where she later lived with her children – Alladin, Fannie, Otto and Sandel. The home remains one of the city’s notable Neoclassical Revival residences and a reminder that the family’s business success helped define the character of the West End, as well. The Rosenbachers retained ownership of the property until 1975. Today, the old building at Fourth and Trade endures as a downtown landmark, even though the names on its façade have changed many times. Rosenbacher & Bro. proved that Fourth Street could grow into a true commercial corridor, and Efird’s carried that momentum into the next generation. Together, their stories reflect the broader evolution of Winston-Salem itself – a city expanding outward, transforming rapidly and redefining its identity one block at a time. When the Efird chain was acquired by Belk in 1956, another chapter closed, but the corner had already secured its place in local history as a rare address where two influential department store legacies overlapped.

October 2026 | 73

Business Takes the Dirty Work Doodie and the Beast - Local Out of Dog Ownership by C A R O LY N S H O R E - P E T E R S O N

Dog ownership comes with plenty of wonderful things…companionship, unconditional love, wagging tails and someone who is always happy to see you. Then, there is the backyard. For Al and Carrie Yountz, one of the least glamorous parts of owning a dog presented an unexpected business opportunity. Their new company, Doodie and the Beast, provides professional pet waste removal for homeowners throughout Winston-Salem and surrounding Triad communities.

Their slogan says it all: “We scoop, you relax.” A DIRTY JOB AND A REAL NEED

Al and Carrie are no strangers to entrepreneurship. After years of operating businesses in property maintenance, automotive services and other hands-on industries, they have learned to recognize everyday problems that could use a practical solution.

cleanups and short-term recovery packages. Weekly service for a regular-size yard ranges from $18 to $25 for one dog, with pricing increasing by $2 for each additional dog. Larger properties, difficult terrain and initial cleanups are quoted individually.

There is also no judgment when a yard has gotten out of control.

Customers do not have to be home during service. A technician arrives in the recognizable Doodie and the Beast van, carefully walks the designated area, removes the pet waste and makes a final pass before leaving. Special attention is given to securely closing gates and respecting landscaping, outdoor furniture and play areas.

As a licensed and insured family owned business, the Yountzes also understand that entering someone’s property, often when the homeowner is away, requires trust.

Equipment, tools and footwear are cleaned and sanitized between properties. Waste can be securely double-bagged and placed in the homeowner’s designated outdoor trash receptacle or removed from the property for an additional $5. Customers can also request additional services, including yard deodorizing, short dog walks, playtime and food or water bowl refills.

“Al usually has the business concepts, and Carrie usually names them,” Al explained.

And yes, getting acquainted with the fourlegged customers is part of the fun.

The idea for Doodie and the Beast initially brought some laughs, but the more they considered it, the more sense it made. Homeowners routinely hire people to mow lawns, clean houses, maintain pools and groom pets. Why not outsource another necessary chore?

“Some want to supervise every scoop, some bring us toys, some bark as if they are protecting the entire neighborhood and others watch from a distance until they decide we are acceptable,” Al commented.

Once the Yountzes began talking about the idea, people responded with variations of the same comment: “I need that!” They quickly realized their potential customers extended far beyond people who simply dislike scooping their yards. The service could help busy families, seniors, people with disabilities or mobility limitations, new parents, frequent travelers, multi-dog households and those recovering from surgery, illness or injury. “We want this service to be viewed as practical help, not an unnecessary luxury,” Carrie said.

HOW IT WORKS

Doodie and the Beast offers weekly and biweekly service as well as one-time

74 | ForsythWoman.com

MORE THAN CONVENIENCE

While the business name usually earns a laugh, the service can make a meaningful difference for homeowners. For someone with arthritis, back or knee problems, balance issues or limited mobility, bending and walking across uneven ground can turn a simple chore into a difficult one. For others, it is about keeping outdoor spaces cleaner for children, guests and pets while reducing odors and discouraging flies.

“If a yard has gotten away from someone, we simply come in, take care of it and help them start fresh,” Carrie stated.

Their other businesses have taught them that customers ultimately want three things — clear communication, dependable service and work done correctly.

MAKING LIFE A LITTLE EASIER

Over the next year, Al and Carrie hope to establish routes throughout the Triad while developing relationships with senior communities, apartment communities, HOAs, property managers and pet-related businesses. But, their larger goal is simple — make life easier for fellow dog owners. For Doodie and the Beast, even the least appealing part of pet ownership deserves a sense of humor.

Or, as their memorable motto puts it: “Your pet’s #2 is our #1 priority!” To learn more, review pricing or request service, visit doodieandthebeast.com, call or text 336.488.2882 or email info@ doodieandthebeast.com.

PODCAST NEW EPISODE EVERY THURSDAY

LISTEN ON YouTube and Apple Podcasts October 2026 | 75

The Window of Tolerance: Why You Snap, Stall or Snack by J A N E B U R N E T T E

healthcoachjane.com IG @coachjanebb FB @coachjanebb You snapped at your husband over the same glass he leaves on the counter every night. You ate cookies standing at the counter at 9:00 p.m. and never tasted one. You skipped the walk you’d planned, then felt bad about skipping it. None of that is a discipline problem; it’s a nervous system that ran out of room.

WHAT IS THE WINDOW OF TOLERANCE?

Psychiatrist Dr. Dan Siegel gave this space its name. It’s the zone where you’re regulated, where you can think clearly and feel your feelings at the same time, and where your reaction actually fits the situation in front of you. Picture a cup of water, the water being everything you’re carrying that day. Once it spills over the rim, you’re out of the window.

•

Where you go when you spill over: • Up, into hyperarousal. Overwhelmed and reactive. You act on impulse, snap at people, overeat or buy things you never planned to. • Down, into hypoarousal. Numb and flat. No energy, foggy thinking, no motivation. You shut down on the couch and call yourself lazy.

•

Neither of these is a character flaw; they’re both your body doing what it thinks will keep you safe.

Signal safety. Rock, dance in your kitchen, hum, sing or laugh. Better yet, go outside and walk with no phone. Listen for the birds, feel the sun and the air on your skin. Your body wants proof it’s safe before your thinking brain comes back online, and nature hands that over faster than anything I know. Then decide. Choose the food, the workout or the hard conversation from inside the window. Every choice made in there stretches the window wider, and every one made from the spillover keeps it small.

Here’s where it lands on your health. Almost every choice you end up regretting gets made from outside the window, whether that’s the 9:00 p.m. snacking, the workout you skipped or the strict plan you start Monday and abandon by Thursday. Dysregulated decisions give dysregulated results, and then you blame your willpower for something your nervous system was driving.

WHAT WIDENS IT FOR GOOD:

WHY YOUR WINDOW SHRANK

•

Every woman’s window is a different size, and yours changes over time. Childhood trauma shrinks it, and so does short sleep, undereating and years of pushing through. Perimenopause shrinks it, too. Progesterone calms the brain through the GABA system, and estrogen helps buffer your cortisol response. Both start fluctuating and falling in your 40s. Same life, same stress, smaller cup. That’s the physiology under the sentence I hear every week in my office – what used to work for me doesn’t work anymore. You’re not broken. A phone at 2% battery isn’t defective, it’s uncharged.

HOW TO GET BACK INSIDE IT: •

Pause and name it. “I’m hyper right now.” “I’m numb right now.” That one moment of awareness interrupts the automatic reach for the pantry or the phone.

76 | ForsythWoman.com

• •

•

Protein and fiber at every meal. A blood sugar crash feels exactly like anxiety from the inside, and steady fuel takes that false alarm off the table. Morning light within an hour of waking. It sets your circadian clock which buys you deeper sleep and a calmer cortisol curve the next day. Strength training twice a week. Muscle is your metabolic engine, and a strong body handles stress far better than a depleted one. Seven to eight hours of sleep. Nothing else on this list works well without it.

GIVE IT TIME

The window widens slowly, over months, through practice on ordinary days. Consistency beats perfection here more than anywhere else in health. So, the next time you snap, stall or find yourself standing at the pantry at 9:00 p.m., check your window before you decide something is wrong with you. Ask how you slept, what you ate and what you carried all day. You’re not too sensitive and you’re not too much; you’re running a bigger load on a smaller battery. You can change both of those.

WINSTON-SALEM IS GROWING. SO ARE WE. A team expanding to serve the city we love.

Fader Real Estate is strengthening its team, and with each new addition, we are elevating the way we serve Winston-Salem.

Together, these connections allow listings to be shared with one of the largest audiences in the region and beyond.

Our clients benefit from the support of a collaborative brokerage, the resources of a dedicated marketing team, and the reach of the Best of Winston platform.

As we grow, we remain focused on concierge-level service, innovative marketing, and a deep understanding of the people and neighborhoods that make this city unique.

FROM OUR CLIENTS “Clare understands unique properties, and perhaps most importantly, understands the conditions that allow buyers to feel comfortable making a purchase. Her local relationships with other agents, her professional standing in the community and her deep knowledge of Winston-Salem all contributed greatly to a smooth and successful selling process.” -Katy D

Considering selling your home this year or next? 336.575.7262 | Clare@FaderRE.com | FaderRE.com

W O M E N

O N

T H E

M O V E

ANGEL PUTNAM Angel Putnam is the owner of Pigtails & Crewcuts in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, where she has built businesses centered on kindness, inclusion and community. Both salons are Nationally Sensory Certified, reflecting Angel’s commitment to creating welcoming environments where every child and family feels understood, celebrated and valued. Since beginning her entrepreneurial journey in 2015, Angel has grown her businesses while using them as a platform to support local families and community organizations. Before entrepreneurship, she spent years in multi-unit retail leadership before stepping away to become a stay-at-home mom. Her personal experiences with foster care, group homes and homelessness have shaped her desire to encourage young people to recognize that difficult circumstances do not have to define their future. Angel is also passionate about leadership and completed HarvardX’s Exercising Leadership: Foundational Principles program. Outside of work, she enjoys homeschooling, family time and raising her three children, Tie, Jailyn and Dyllin, alongside her husband, Rob.

BRIT AMERSON Brit Amerson is passionate about creating meaningful connections between people, animals and the community she calls home. As Community Events Coordinator at Forsyth Humane Society, Brit works in animal welfare, fundraising, development and community engagement, helping create opportunities for people to support and connect with the organization’s mission. She is also the owner and operator of The Lane Exchange, a thrift bus focused on community support, sustainability and eco-conscious shopping. A graduate of UNC Greensboro with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies, Brit brings a people-centered perspective to everything she does. Outside of work, she enjoys thrifting, reading more than 30 books a year, group fitness at the YMCA and putting her trivia skills to the test. Through both of her roles, Brit continues to champion community, connection and more thoughtful ways of giving back.

CHRISTINA MINER-O’REILLY Christina Miner-O’Reilly is a Realtor with RE/MAX Preferred Properties, where she has built her career around serving clients and helping them navigate the home-buying and selling process with confidence. During her seven years with RE/MAX, Christina has earned recognition including the RE/MAX Executive Club and RE/MAX 100% Club, reflecting her dedication to her clients and her profession. Her approach to real estate is grounded in relationships, local knowledge and a genuine desire to help people find the right place to call home. When she is not working with clients, Christina enjoys reading, cooking and traveling. She is also a proud and enthusiastic mom who loves watching her daughter dance and cheering on her son at baseball games. For Christina, success means not only building a rewarding career, but also being present for the people and moments that matter most.

(continued on page 80)

78 | ForsythWoman.com

Pilates & Postural Therapy Studio . Specializing in non-medical pain relief . ScolioPilates® . Pilates therapy for rehab and athletic performance

. Massage . Esthetics

InnerStrengthPilatesNC.com

336.813.5320 Located at the corner of Peacehaven & Country Club Roads, in the Harper Hill Commons Shopping Center

Where does YOUR Inner Strength come from?

Philippians 4:13

Creating more choices for women

Midwifery and OB-GYN care under one roof Call us at 336-765-5470 or visit NHWomanCare.org

Novant Health WomanCare 1730 Kernersville Medical Pkwy. Suite 104 Kernersville, NC 27284

114 Charlois Blvd. Winton-Salem, NC 27103

4130 Clemmons Road Clemmons, NC 27013

October 2026 | 79

W O M E N

O N

T H E

M O V E

(continued from page 78)

TAYLOR KENNEDY Taylor Kennedy is the Founder and Owner of Tote & Co., a locally owned reusable moving tote rental company serving families and businesses throughout the Triad. She launched the company with a simple goal: to provide a more convenient and sustainable alternative to traditional cardboard moving boxes. Taylor built Tote & Co. from the ground up while working full-time and raising a family, growing her inventory, completing her first customer rentals, developing community partnerships and introducing the business at local events. One of her proudest accomplishments has been watching an idea evolve into a business that can make an otherwise stressful move a little easier. Taylor is also a Certified Ophthalmic Technician, earning her COT through Duke University, and brings more than a decade of experience in ophthalmology and clinical patient care to her work. Outside of her career and business, she enjoys traveling with her husband and three children, tackling home projects and staying involved in her local community.

CHRISTEN FUNDERBURK Christen Funderburk is the Founder and CEO of Lizzie’s All Natural Products, a natural skincare and wellness company based in downtown Winston-Salem. Inspired by her own experience with eczema, which began at age 12, Christen started creating natural products while in college. What began with approximately $300 and products made in her dorm room has grown into a thriving brick-and-mortar and e-commerce business serving customers seeking natural solutions for eczema, sensitive skin and everyday wellness. Christen earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology from UNC Pembroke. Today, she views entrepreneurship and skincare as part of her ministry and is passionate about helping other product-based entrepreneurs build confidence, create effective systems and step fully into their roles as CEOs. Outside of business, Christen enjoys reading, hiking, bowling, traveling, bike riding, family time and self-care. She especially treasures being an aunt to her nieces, Zara, Zuri and Alora.

Submit yourself or someone you know to be featured! Tinyurl.com/forsythwomanwom

80 | ForsythWoman.com

Stop Chasing Symptoms. Start Solving the Problem. We help active adults uncover why pain keeps coming back so they can get back to doing the things they love.

. Back Pain . Sciatica . Hip Pain . Knee Pain . Foot and Ankle Pain . Shoulder and Neck Pain . Osteoporosis 2020 Hollyrood St . Winston Salem, NC 27127 (336) 933-1544 . sheltonmp.com

WHAT IF YOU STOPPED TRYING TO FIND YOUR PURPOSE AND STARTED RECEIVING IT? I'M AVAILABLE.

How to Receive and Live Your Unique Purpose Kristin Johnson A new book about faith, purpose, and becoming available for what life - and God - may be placing right in front of you.

Pre-order September 15 Debuts October 15 KristinJohnsonSpeaks.com

October 2026 | 81

Aging Out Can Anyone See Me?

by A

With spooky season comes costumes and pumpkins patches, fall festivals and Halloween parties, and my personal favorite – ghosts. In fact, this month, I’m taking a trip to London to see a few shows I’ve been dying to see that I can’t catch on Broadway, which is a city offering a multitude of ghost tours to tourists. I’ve had a lot in common with ghosts over the last year of my life. Whether it’s ghosts of my past haunting me or lingering in the back of my mind while I am trying to work, sleep and find distractions, or former best friends or boyfriends ghosting me, ghosts seem to be a recurrent theme in my life. I’m not one who believes in ghosts showing up and knocking over vases in your apartment late at night; however, I definitely understand what ghosts must go through when they make all this noise but still feel unseen. When the dust settles after a painful experience with losing someone, the adrenaline has worn off, hope of reconnection or that the person will change has subsided, dullness and flatness replaces anxiety, and you either hold on for dear life to the now broken attachment by rumination and memories or you make the decision to accept the loss and put it behind you. Both are difficult, and I have a tendency to fight acceptance like my life depends on it. However, there comes a point when even my best attempts at beating a dead horse feel futile. The past is slipping away from me, and as much as I know I should let it, it’s all I have emotionally left to tie me to what I

82 | ForsythWoman.com

MY HILL

think I miss. Even if memories are painful, sometimes it’s more comfortable to keep them in the forefront of your mind than to sit with the scary thought that the chapter (or chapters) is truly over. In the lonely gap between the initial shock of loss, grief or betrayal and true healing (if that’s even a real thing), I’ve found it’s hard to feel significantly connected to anyone. I recently went back to working nights and weekends at a restaurant to stay busy and make money that will allow me to pursue my old hobbies like traveling more frequently. I work shifts surrounded by people but leave with the same void I clocked in with daily. It’s moments where you fail to feel bonded to 99 percent of people you meet that make you miss even the most unhealthy of dynamics. Sometimes I even wish I could be haunted by a ghost in my apartment because it would be flattering that a ghost felt it worth their time to haunt me in the first place. I read something recently that explained the feeling of loneliness stems from feeling like you’re no one’s “anything.” My cat sees me as a vessel for treats. I’m no longer my ex-best friend’s best friend. I’m not a girlfriend or wife. Any friends I do have don’t rely on me emotionally; they have significant others or family of their own. The 19-year-olds I work with at the restaurant don’t care about my 34-year-old problems. Who even am I anymore?

When you’re younger, especially if you grow up in a very small town, you easily take your surroundings and pre-existing friendships for granted. You think there are bigger and better things out there and that the grass is greener in a bigger city with new experiences and new people to meet. While that may be true for more extroverted people who easily network and find friends wherever they go, there is something to be said for not taking those surroundings for granted. Finding authentic relationships and feeling seen, heard or understood by those around you is sometimes rarer than it appears. When you fail to “click” with your new coworkers like you did with your former ones; when the only texts you receive are automated sales promotions or spam for days on end; and when life moves on for everyone else while you still feel emotionally stuck in the mud, you may find yourself knocking over a vase for attention, too. In the big scheme of things, I’m fine. I’ll never be younger or healthier than I am at this present time. Time heals all wounds to some degree. Hard work typically pays off in the long run. Striving to live honestly even when others aren’t honest with you is still the right move. And after feeling this way for the last year, even if I don’t really believe in ghosts, I may start leaving snacks out in my kitchen late at night just to make any hypothetical ghosts feel appreciated.

Fall in Love

with our second-hand finds! Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm 690 Jonestown Rd #600 Winston-Salem, NC 27103

336-659-7786 | etcconsignmentshoppe.com

YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER IN HOME CARE Personal Care Assistance Bathing & Dressing Meal Preparation Medication & Reminders Range of Motion Exercises

Companionship Light Housekeeping Respite Care End of Life Care Support Transportation to Appointments

3000 BETHESDA PLACE SUITE 302 . WINSTON-SALEM, NC 27103 PASSIONATECNAHOMECARE.BIZ . 336-893-5242 October 2026 | 83

Purpose Push: Sheridan C. Watkins is a journalist and the owner of Perennial Peaces, a jewelry and gifts brand focused on transcending human understanding of God’s love and being a source of peace on Earth. Her true work began after victory over depression, and her calling is to provide peace through her Divine gifts to help women and girls accept who they are. Follow the mission on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok & Pinterest: @perennialpeaces.

Do It Scared

by S H E R I D A N C . W AT K I N S

The most glamorized parts of business are the grand openings, revenue increases, viral moments and acclaimed recognition. However, you and I have been in business long enough to know it doesn’t come without valleys; and even when you’re anticipating obstacles that make things hard, the atmosphere shifts when the hard things are also scary. What feels scary will look different for everyone. It could be product launches, bookkeeping, raising prices or filing for trademarks (my story). Faith and endurance don’t remove fear, but just like Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” What’s most important here is obeying while fear is still present.

company contesting it and accusing me of infringing on their logo. I was angry, but underneath that, I was terrified. I thought, why would God let me spend this money only to lose it and potentially face a lawsuit? During this time, I leaned on my community and gathered opinions and advice from those I trusted most. As God’s child, I felt His comfort and provision as I moved forward. I didn’t have the scriptures to immediately recollect, but I want to equip you with a few: •

Psalms 112:7-8: They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.

•

Proverbs 29:25: Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.

Let me explain with a business story from my life: In the early stages of building my jewelry business, God told me to focus on building the foundations that would protect my big business. I thought: Big? I just started. But I saw a glimpse of His vision, and I obeyed. I began doing what I could – learning the unexciting parts of operations, projections, documentation and legal formation. He told me to file for a trademark to protect my business name, and fear set in. Filing for a trademark was a lot of money! And if the application is denied, the money is lost. But I did it. Finding the right lawyers and making sure I had the proper documents to file successfully was hard enough, but my application passed the first round, and I was excited. What I wasn’t prepared for was a billion dollar

84 | ForsythWoman.com

•

Hebrews 13:5-6: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”

A billion dollar company has no power over the calling God has for my work through my business. I went through a six-month process of retracting my

trademark application, designing a new logo and refiling to start over – and it was all paid for by a timely grant I did not expect. I didn’t know God wanted to show me how to surrender more and build my faith to step into a version of myself that perseveres with courage in the face of adversity. This whole journey was a divine teaching moment that I share with others constantly, and now I’m sharing with you. Fear isn’t a stop sign. It’s a checkpoint to ask God how to move forward because He meets us in motion when we have faith (James 2:17). So, do it scared because you will always come out on the other side with valuable lessons and a powerful testimony. I have faith in you.

. Mom Owned Business . Residential, Commercial, & New Construction . One Time, Weekly, Bi-Weekly, & Monthly Cleaning Options Bonded & Insured

(336) 409-1133 | yourfirstclasscleaning@gmail.com |

@Yourfirstclasscleaning

October 2026 | 85

Trying New Things: Going to a Grief Retreat by K R I S T I N YAT E S

I was skeptical at first. How could

working through grief be a retreat? When I think of a retreat, I think of a vacation. However, a change in scenery is a change in scenery. I went, still skeptical, but after the first couple of hours, I was glad I’d gone! The retreat, hosted by Trellis and free of charge, began with heart stickers. Each person got a heart that’s color represented whom they’d lost. We put these hearts on our nametags so we could see that we aren’t alone; there’s someone else, sometimes several people, in the room who have also lost a family member, a friend, another loved one. The day was filled with so much care and empathy from people I’ve never met and people I’ll likely never see again. We shared pictures and stories of our loved ones, sometimes talking about how we lost them. While talking with the women at my table, I felt a sense of community and belonging. None of us had the same story or the same loss, or even the same timeline for our loss, but we each had a similar pain and a similar desperation for hope which was the retreat’s theme.

86 | ForsythWoman.com

There were lots of creative activities during the retreat, from guided meditations to music therapy and expressive art through painting, collaging and journaling. There was even a tea tasting! Each activity was rooted in mindfulness and asked us to honor our loved ones and ourselves. One of my favorite activities was a watercolor painting, where we were asked to make marks on the page with a black Sharpie, while focusing on a mantra or question, and remembering to breathe. This mantra or question guided our marks. We then rounded any sharp lines to curve them and added watercolor to the page. Initially, I carefully painted within the designs I’d made, but at some point during the activity, I decided I didn’t want to color in the lines anymore. So, I didn’t. I viewed the entire page as a mark to color and blended colors that felt good. Another of my favorite activities was based on kintsugi, the Japanese tradition of mending broken pottery with gold lacquer. We were given a canvas with a gold vase painted on it. The vase had gold lines through

it that mimicked kintsugi and sectioned the vase, which we decorated using various collage pieces provided by Trellis. Some used mementos from their loved ones. I used glass, beads, buttons, butterflies, celestial paper, dried rose and lavender, etc. The retreat ended with an empowering song that reminded us we aren’t broken; we love someone so much, we just need help getting through losing them. We were given two projects to take with us: a box with supplies to make a memento box of our loved one and a bag with materials to make a handheld labyrinth. Trellis took care of us, nurtured us and made sure we felt seen. Would I go to this retreat again? Absolutely. One woman at my table had gone to the previous one to help herself get through the grief of losing her father. I can see how the retreat would be helpful regardless of when you experienced your loss or where you are in your healing. Because, as we know, grief doesn’t go away. We just learn how to live with it as a companion alongside us, and sometimes, it helps us make art.

we aren’t Relinquishing anything by J E A N M A R I E J O H N S O N

It was a stunning late July afternoon. The rain had moved on, lifting the humidity along with it. The butterflies gathered on my purple bush, the one named for them. I wanted nothing more than to sit in their midst, soaking in this dreamlike day, but I was stuck in the house. The roofers were finishing up my repair, and the lawn service, just yards away from the butterflies, was texting me about not one but two surreptitious underground bees’ nests: “If I have some gasoline in my truck, I’ll pour it on them.” “Well, okay.” I’d had a very nasty experience with such a nest and knew their hazards. Clearly, there was no peace to be had outdoors right now. But I knew exactly where to find it, where it always was, in a phone call with my dear friend, Lynda. I knew she’d either be holding court in her antique clothing boutique or simply listening to music from the 1940s. I called. She answered, and after exchanging our recent health updates, we found ourselves, as usual, in a real conversation. That’s how it goes in this special friendship, one rooted in a shared love for literary fiction, style and living an authentic life. It’s no wonder we rarely run out of things to explore. On this lovely afternoon, we found ourselves discussing our 40-something-yearold nieces. Both mothers, both creative, and both beginning to grapple with the choices that

brought them to this stage, to their “now.” For both, there is a lot of “good stuff,” some sadness and loss – just like the rest of us. Surprising, alarming or startling to them, but oh-so-familiar to us. One niece lamented the passing of her youth, and the “fact” that she was “old” at 43. We sat with these feelings that were not ours anymore. We’d been there, too. We knew how that sense of loss – even panic – felt. The other niece was dealing with other forms of loss and utterly dreading the impending empty nest, just a few years away. Oh, how much I want you strong women to know that time – and the inevitable changes that accompany it – can’t be stopped. The longer we linger there, the more time we waste. The mounting strands of gray hair, the itty-bitty eye wrinkles, the this and that marking the passage of time are markers on our journey of womanhood.

A niece laments: “But it feels like I am relinquishing who I am.” Oh no, no, no. You are not! No more than you have relinquished the vibrant or quiet child you were. Or the testy or tenacious teen, the confident or hesitant young professional. Each was a passage, a chapter, a landscape you travelled on your everchanging journey through time where nothing stays the same except what was intangibly real in the beginning.

And so, ever-wise Lynda adds: “It’s not relinquishing. It’s moving forward.” So yes, I write this for every woman on her journey. Every single one of us walking her path and weaving her story through time. Because here’s the thing: We are not relinquishing anything about who we were; we are honoring it in our here and now, in our forward movement.

88 | ForsythWoman.com

FedEx | DHL | US Postal | UPS

• Fax • B&W & Color Copies • • Mailbox Rentals • Shipping Supplies • • Greeting Cards • Notary Public • • Stamps • Passport Photos •

6255 TownCenter Drive, Clemmons (Located behind First Watch)

336-712-0505

301 Brookstown Ave #500 Winston-Salem @woodandthreadboutique

NEVER DO LAUNDRY AGAIN. Free Pick Up & Delivery

. WINSTON-SALEM . CLEMMONS . LEXINGTON . LEWISVILLE . PFAFFTOWN

. BERMUDA RUN . ADVANCE . KERNERSVILLE . MOCKSVILLE Scan to Schedule . RURAL HALL your Pickup Today! getwoshbox.com October 2026 | 89

Conversation with Your BFF Are We Still Friends or Just Friends With a History? by R E B E C C A C O O P E R

If you find yourself maintaining a friendship primarily because “we’ve been friends forever,” ask yourself what the relationship looks like without the history attached. Do you still enjoy talking to each other? Are you curious about each other’s lives? Do you feel supported, understood and comfortable being who you are now?

There’s something special about a friend who knew you before you became the person you are today.

Most importantly, are you creating anything new together?

She remembers your first boyfriend, your questionable hairstyle, the job you couldn’t wait to quit and the night you laughed so hard you could barely breathe. She knows the stories behind the stories. With a few words – “Remember that time when…” – you can both be transported back decades.

MAYBE THE FRIENDSHIP JUST NEEDS AN UPDATE

But, what happens when you realize most of what connects you happened a long time ago? Sometimes we hold tightly to friendships because of everything we’ve been through together without stopping to ask whether we’re still truly part of each other’s lives today. And that brings up an uncomfortable BFF question: Are we still close friends, or are we simply friends with our history? I am so glad you asked!

WHEN MEMORIES BECOME THE FRIENDSHIP

Think about the last few conversations you’ve had with a longtime friend. How much time did you spend talking about who you used to be versus who you are now? There’s absolutely nothing wrong with reminiscing. One of the greatest gifts of an old friend is having someone who remembers earlier versions of us. But, friendship needs new memories, too. If every conversation circles back to high school, college, old relationships or things that happened 20 years ago, perhaps the friendship is surviving more on nostalgia than connection.

WOULD WE BECOME FRIENDS TODAY?

Realizing that a friendship has become rooted in the past doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to end. Maybe it needs to grow. Instead of spending your next lunch entirely reminiscing, ask something different. “What are you excited about right now?” “What’s been hard lately?” “What do you want this next chapter of your life to look like?” You may discover there is an entirely new version of your friend waiting to be known. And she may discover the same thing about you.

HONOR THE PAST, BUT MAKE ROOM FOR THE PRESENT Some friendships will successfully make that transition. Others may naturally become less central to our lives.

Here’s an interesting and slightly scary question:

That doesn’t make the friendship a failure.

If we met today, would we become friends?

Not every person who was meant to walk closely beside us during one chapter will remain beside us through every chapter that follows.

People change. Priorities shift. Life experiences shape us. The things that mattered at 25 may look very different at 45, 55 or 65. Sometimes two people grow alongside each other. Other times, they grow in completely different directions. Neither person necessarily did anything wrong. We can love who someone was in our life while recognizing that we may no longer fit naturally into each other’s present.

LOYALTY ISN’T THE SAME AS OBLIGATION

Long friendships often carry a sense of loyalty, and that’s a beautiful thing. There is comfort in knowing someone has been there through marriages, babies, careers, losses, celebrations and countless ordinary Tuesdays. But, loyalty shouldn’t feel like an obligation.

90 | ForsythWoman.com

Maybe one of the most loving things we can do is appreciate a friendship for everything it has been without forcing it to remain something it no longer is. But, when a longtime friendship still has love, curiosity and effort on both sides, there’s something worth protecting. Because the very best old friends aren’t simply the people who remember who we used to be. They’re the ones who keep getting to know who we’re becoming.

Open Daily 8am - 3pm 424 4th Street NW, Winston-Salem

336-448-5188

@youngcardinalws

Now o

p en fo

r lunc

h Tue

sday-

S atur

day!

336.893.7069 Tues-Thurs 11:30am-9pm I Fri-Sat 11:30am-10pm I Closed Sun & Mon

5 27 N Lib er t y Stre et Wins t on-S alem, NC 27 1 01

A N D R E WS R E S TAU R A N T S WS.CO M

DECEMBER IS TOO LATE TO START PLANNING Your 2026 Tax Return is already being written. The decisions you make before December 31 can matter.

336.766.0464 marzanocapitalgroup.com Wealth Management | Retirement + Insurance Planning | Executive + Employee Benefits | 529 Plans Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Marzano Capital Group is an other business name of Independent Advisor Alliance, LLC. All investment advice is offered through Independent Advisor Alliance LLC, a registered investment advisor. Independent Advisor Alliance is a separate entity from LPL Financial.