KNOW Charlotte 2020

Women you must

and do business with

vol. 3

#knowcharlotte

2020 1

KNOW CARES IS MAKING A BIG IMPACT The KNOW WomenTM is excited to unveil its newest initiative called KNOW Cares, a non-profit focused on empowering, educating, and raising funds for women and youth worldwide. KNOW Cares provides emergency relief funds for businesswomen, leadership development, and mentorship opportunities as well as provide grants to aspiring

female entrepreneurs. KNOW Cares also aims to help women in 2nd and 3rd world countries better their lives by ensuring educational opportunities.

KNOW Cares will be an extension of The KNOW WomenTM which currently has more than 6,100 members across the globe.

KNOW CARES SUPPORTS We believe that all women and youth should have access and opportunity to engage in leadership development programs.

1

We create an educational experience for women and youth focusing on knowledge, problem-solving, leadership, communication, interpersonal skills, health, and well-being.

3

We support and educate women in business through our signature program.

We serve & provide financial assistance to local, national, and international communities.

2

4

KNOW Cares mission is to Empower, Educate and Engage women and youth globally through give-back initiatives related to LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT, WOMEN IN BUSINESS, COMMUNITY IMPACT, and EDUCATION. To get involved:

hello@knowcares.com To donate:

www.knowcares.com 2 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

WHAT IF YOU COULD CONNECT WITH WOMEN ON A GLOBAL SCALE WHO WANT TO HELP YOU SUCCEED? We have been listening carefully to what you really want in a women’s collaborative. We’ve created the KNOW Women Global Membership with the features that are most important to you. You’ll unlock business development opportunities, publicity and marketing help, outreach opportunities, and the chance to continually connect and grow through collaboration and connection with your global sisterhood.

A MEMBERSHIP LIKE NO OTHER

Online Portal

Member Events

Promote

As soon as you join you’ll have access to The KNOW Women Global portal where you will find all of your members-only resources from CEO chats to connection calls. You’ll unlock business development opportunities, publicity, and marketing help, outreach opportunities, and the chance to continually connect and grow through collaboration and connection with your global sisterhood.

Register to attend a weekly ‘Let’s Have Coffee’ series, a bi-weekly masterclass, or a monthly CEO Chat to help build your business or grow your career. Join the new member meetup or virtual events to connect with female members all over the globe.

Get exclusive opportunities to promote your brand, speak at an event, host a master class, and sell your products through our KNOW Women marketplace.

A CLASS OF LIKE-MINDED BUSINESS WOMEN WHO ARE COMMITTED TO LEVELING UP The KNOW Women Global Membership is built around women who will help you achieve your goals. You’ll be seen and heard, acknowledged, and supported. You won’t ever have to question if you are in the right room or if you have a seat at the table. Our movement is built to help you rise through inclusivity, positivity, and collaboration.

we promise

1. To align you with motivated women from across the globe.

2. Provide access to female industry leaders who will educate and inspire.

3. An opportunity to promote and elevate your brand to a global audience.

KNOW Women Global Membership: KNOW this is where you belong.

www.theknowwomen.com/membership

2020 3

STATISTICS ON WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES women employ more than

9 MILLION people

37%

1.6 trillion 0

10

20

30

OF WOMEN EARN MORE THAN THEIR HUSBANDS

40

50

60

70

80

WOMEN FIRMS GENERATE

IN SALES

more than

OF ALL BUSINESSES ARE OWNED AND OPERATED BY WOMEN

11.3 40% MILLION

SOURCE: AMEX OPEN / WOMENABLE

4 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

firms are owned by women

from the

FOUNDER & CEO

Launched in 2017, The KNOW WomenTM began as a way to bring more attention to dynamic women doing remarkable things in the Phoenix metro. We knew there were an outstanding number of women impacting the community and making big strides in their industries. Our goal was to get those women out from behind their computer screens and into the public eye. Thus, we created the KNOW Book, a carefully curated publication that would feature vision-led women in a glamorous and authentic style.

As the momentum grew and we recognized the need for more, we launched our Collaborative around the women featured in our KNOW Book. Our mix & mingles soon ensued and we witnessed incredible things happening. We saw our women doing business with each other, creating friendships, supporting each other, collaborating on projects together, and so much more.

What started as a fun project to spotlight women, has turned into a full-blown movement. The KNOW WomenTM has expanded beyond its birthplace of Phoenix, Arizona; its aim is to launch in every major city across the United States and Canada.

Sarah Benken FOUNDER & CEO

2020 5

CONTRIBUTORS Big thanks to our contributors for of all their efforts and contributions to 2020 KNOW Charlotte! design & layout Myra H.Ray photography Wyeth Augustine Photography ambassador Allison Birkmeyer contributors Beth Reisinger Lisa Thomas LISA THOMAS

publisher Sarah Benken admin team Sara Mayer Ashley Scrivner Taylor Gladden public relations Mack Media Relations connect @theknowwomen @theknowwomen

BETH REISINGER

6 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

subscribe: theknowwomen.com

THEKNOWWOMEN.COM COLLECTION We are a collection of highly successful, authentically driven women.

COLLABORATION We collaborate to support one another & build clout that inspires & motivates the advancement for all women.

COMMUNITY We support our local & global communities by actively searching for ways to pay it forward.

Nominations for the 2021 KNOW Charlotte open January 2021.

Follow KNOW Publications for the latest information.

MANTRA

Lift & Rise

theknowwomen.com @theknowwomen @theknowwomen hello@theknowwomen.com 2020 7

A few years ago, I decided to stop setting New Year’s resolutions. Instead I committed to choosing a single word - a mantra so to speak and a guide for the months to come. This years was -

Empower

Becoming the KNOW Women Charlotte Ambassador has allowed me to connect with many dynamic, high-achieving women throughout the Queen City.

Discovering the accomplishments and extraordinary journeys of this diverse group of CEOs’, entrepreneurs, business executives, community leaders and non-profit founders has been an honor and privilege.

AMBASSADOR

Over time, I have learned life’s biggest lessons typically come from the most unexpected moments and 2020 has been no different. The past few months have taught me the power of asking someone to share their story. A simple question often overlooked by the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

One that provides insight and lays the foundation for true, authentic connection.

My hope is these women will provide you inspiration, encouragement and motivation. I challenge each of you to go beyond the pages of this book. Listen to their stories. Celebrate each other and be a part of a community who KNOWS we are better when we lift and rise together.

A big thank you to the Charlotte team – Beth, Wyeth and Lisa for their invaluable support. Special recognition also goes to our visionary, Sarah Benken and the KNOW headquarters team. This would not have been possible without each of you!

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

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n o s i l l A

2020 9

THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

table of contents

11 BEAUTY

12 BUSINESS 34

FOOD & BEVERAGE

35 HEALTH & WELLNESS 41 HOME & LIFE 50

MEDIA

51 NON-PROFIT 56 10 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

NOTABLE

BEAUTY

KATHERINE KATZ BLUSH & GLOW BEAUTY COLLECTIVE

Katherine Katz, founder of Blush & Glow Beauty Collective believes you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your health for beauty.

That’s why she partners with brands that share in her philosophy to bring you clean curated collection of beauty services and products.

From her home base in Fort Mill, SC, Katherine has created a solid foundation of educating and servicing locally. Thanks to her years with major beauty brands like MAC and Benefit, Katherine is the go-to person in her region. She attended Puerto Rico’s Inter-American University where she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.

Blush & Glow Beauty Collective empowers women to build their own business, teaching how-to classes while also providing branding tools. The primary goal is to build your self-confidence, find your purpose, learn a new craft and begin your entrepreneurial journey all in one place with Blush & Glow Beauty Collective.

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

KATHERINE KATZ Blush & Glow Beauty Collective @blush.glow.beauty

blushandglowbeauty.com

hello@blushandglowbeauty.com 2020 11

BUSINESS

ANGELA WHEELER WHEELUX REALTY

Angela Wheeler is a Charlotte, NC native who is known for her passion to help others through her work in real estate and philanthropy. She graduated from Belmont Abbey College, earning two Bachelor’s degrees in education and business. Angela earned a Real Estate Brokers License in North and South Carolina. With over a decade and a half of experience in the Real Estate field, Angela decided to pursue other forms of community development by starting a local child care facility. In 2019 Angela started her own real estate firm, Wheelux Realty. To give back more during the pandemic she started the non-profit organization, Wheelux Reach.

Wheelux Realty and Wheelux Reach are two entities to be on the lookout for in 2021. Angela also has plans to expand the Wheelux brand with the addition of a real estate school in 2021. Throughout her many endeavors, Angela keeps her core values rooted deeply in God, family, community, and legacy. wheeluxrealty.com info@wheeluxrealty.com 13000 South Tryon St. Ste. F-109

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

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BUSINESS

ARDEN MCLAUGHLIN DEFINITA PUBLICITY & MARKETING

Arden McLaughlin, a spunky blond with a heart of gold, lives to tell stories. She believes each person has a unique gift which allows her to flourish. Arden’s gift is identifying your uniqueness that then leads to your story, and your story Defines You. Identifying your uniqueness gives Arden life so she decided to make a career of it! Therefore Definita: Publicity & Marketing was born! Through her natural gift of storytelling mixed with a flair for staying ahead of media trends, Arden’s clients benefit from local, regional, and national media coverage. Born and raised in North Carolina, Arden graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she majored in journalism and minored in creative writing. She teaches PR classes and has created a PR course to help people break down their story to build up their business. She’s been mistaken for Elle Woods. She’s totally okay with that.

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Marketingdefinita.com

@Definita_publicity

arden@marketingdefinita.com 2020 13

BUSINESS

CAROLINA APONTE CAJA HOLDINGS LLC

Carolina Aponte is a seasoned professional with more than 25 years of experience serving clients both large and small. As the CEO of Caja Holdings, Carolina divides her time between business development, client services, consulting, and analysis. Her business provides outsource bookkeeping and fractional CFO services to multi-milliondollar companies, law firms, and diverse small businesses including local CPA firms. She graduated from Nova Southeastern University with a degree in Business Management. Afterward, she climbed the corporate ladder at a thriving accounting software company until she moved to North Carolina. She holds a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Entrepreneurship certificate and an award-winning author of “Pave Your Own Way: 13 Skills To Create Your Professional Success.” Carolina is the recipient of multiple awards including the 2017 NAWBO Charlotte Rising Star Award and 2020 50 Most Influential Women in the Charlotte region. She is also the 2020-2021 President of NAWBO Charlotte. cajaholdings.com carolinaaponte.com @Thecarolinaaponte

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PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

BUSINESS

CHRISTY MILLER CHRISTY MILLER CONSULTING

No stranger to the motorsports industry Christy Miller grew up in a racing family and was destined to eventually have a career in the racing world. With over 15 years as an entrepreneur, Christy combined her love for marketing and racing to create Christy Miller Consulting.

A consulting firm specializing in the Motorsports-Performance industry.

Currently, she coaches racers from as young as 7 years old up to adult how to market themselves effectively to acquire sponsors. This is done through an online program she created Motorsports Marketing Academy and 1-1 coaching. She has a goal of working with businesses to create sponsorship programs to help them reach their target market through partnerships with racers and high-impact strategies.

Christy recently moved to the Charlotte area from Asheville, NC. She is also a Rodan + Fields consultant and manages her son’s racing career. Her passion for the sport and helping others shines through her work.

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

christy@christymillerconsulting.net

@Christy Miller Consulting

828.712.9535 2020 15

BUSINESS

ELENA ARECCO BRIDGMON EPIC LIFE COACHING, LLC

Elena Arecco Bridgmon is a Certified Executive and Leadership Coach, mother, facilitator, and businesswoman dedicated to supporting women who believe it’s impossible to “have it all,” but have not yet discerned what “it all” truly means.

A marketing and operations nerd turned Human Resources professional, Elena has held specialty roles including staffing, compensation, leadership development, and internal coaching. Over her twentyyear career, she has led teams, run strategic projects, and managed $500 million budgets.

Elena guides her clients to breakthroughs in purpose and passion by encouraging them to get curious about their deepest desires and strengths, creating transformation and results. For Elena, the success of other women is a contact high like no other. The celebration of discoveries fires her up and keeps her dedicated to coaching.

Elena is excited to connect with her KNOW Tribe sisters and have a conversation about “having it all” in their respective epic lives. liveanepiclifecoaching.com @epiclifecoachingllc /elena-arecco-bridgmon-mba-4322301 PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

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BUSINESS

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Jacinda, Melody and Diana are 3

Host and an Amazon Best selling author for

powerhouses who run and operate Uniquely

Uniquely Qualified.

Qualified Inc., a specialized coaching business

Diana is a client-focused leader with over

for high-end clients on a mission to scale JACINDA JACOBS DIANA MCFARLANE MELODY MCCORD STEPHENS UNIQUELY QUALIFIED INC. IamUniquelyQualified.com info@iamuniquelyqualified.com @IamUniquelyQualified

business for sustainable success.

a decade of I.T Professional Services Consulting, Digital Marketing and Business

They originally met in ministry serving

Development.

for Stolen Lunches Bible Study, and later

Melody has 20+ years of Business,

formed a powerful trifecta of expertise in business coaching.

Sales, and Customer Relations experience, specializing in B2B sales, profitability,

Jacinda is a 20-year media veteran,

diversity inclusion and client acquisition.

currently on V1019-FM and WCCB-TV in

Our motto; “Own your uniqueness and walk

Charlotte, NC. She’s the arena host for the Charlotte Hornets, a 2x NBA All Star

in your purpose. You are Uniquely Qualified.”

2020 17

BUSINESS

LAPRONDA I. SPANN LAIN CONSULTING LLC

LaPronda I. Spann, MS, is the Owner, Dream builder and Chief Visionary Architect of Lain Consulting LLC, an award-winning consulting firm that specializes in increasing the pool of firms that are certified to do business with local and state government. To build capacity for small businesses, LaPronda’s new online course, “Fast Track to Contracts,” moves small businesses through a 5-step process to land their first or next government contract. The company also works with government agencies to increase spending by agencies with certified firms. Since 2012, Lain Consulting has secured over $2 million in grants and contracts from foundations, major corporations and government for small businesses. LaPronda is excited to be a part of KNOW Women understanding that your “network is your net worth.”

For her, KNOW Women is a pool of superstars that can help expand her life’s work and cultivate meaningful relationships along the way.

704.966.7622 contact@lainconsultingllc.com lainconsultingllc.com PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

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BUSINESS

LORI KEETON LORI KEETON LAW

For over two decades, attorney Lori Keeton has advocated for police officers and other municipal employees both in and out of the courtroom.

She also assists entrepreneurs with their business needs. Lori Keeton Law was created in 2017 to be a trusted resource, partner and ally throughout the litigation process.

During her career, Keeton has been selected for inclusion in Business North Carolina’s “Legal Elite,” The Best Lawyers in America© and North Carolina Super Lawyers. Keeton was previously named one of the “50 Most Influential Women” by the Mecklenburg Times and recognized as a “Leader in the Law” by North Carolina Lawyer’s Weekly. She was the 2019-2020 President of the Mecklenburg Bar Foundation and is an active member of Northside City Church. Her mother is her primary role model, and she considers her faith in God to be the cornerstone of her success in every aspect of her life.

lorikeetonlaw.com /lori-keeton-law @lorikeetonlaw PHOTO CREDIT: MEGAN DIPIERO PHOTOGRAPHY

2020 19

BUSINESS

LAURIE TURNER WBE, SBE, DBE HIREQUEST DIRECT

Laurie Turner, franchise owner for HireQuest Direct, a nationally recognized temporary staffing service providing “the right people at the right time”.

Laurie attributes her success to empowering strong women in her company. Her Lead Team consists of Kathryn Snelgrove, Regional Collections Coordinator, Kristy Jones, Regional Executive Recruiter, Latrise Hunter, CFO, Marena Freeman, Director of Operations, and Megan Lawrence, Vice President, Kathryn (Mandie) Snelgrove is a graduate of USC and USC Law School. Mandie practiced real estate law before relocating to Rock Hill, SC and joining the HireQuest family. She and her husband, Keith, reside in Rock Hill, SC with 2 rambunctious boys.

Kristy Jones is a graduate of Auburn University and has been in the staffing industry for 12 years. She and her husband, Adam, reside in Charlotte, NC and have 3 children that keep them busy.

Latrise Hunter attended JCSU in Charlotte, NC and holds a Masters in Accountancy. She currently resides in Indian Land, SC with her husband and 2 children. She enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Marena Freeman, is a native of Concord, NC, a wife and mother of 3. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from UNCC and Masters from Strayer University. She believes in excellent customer service without compromising the integrity of others and herself. She strives to improve the construction staffing industry one job site at a time.

Megan Lawrence, has been with HireQuest close to 8 years and loves that every day offers a different challenge. She lives in Lake Wylie, SC with her 3 children.

4214 Statesville Road 20 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

hirequestdirectllc.com

704.395.0788

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

2020 21

BUSINESS

LU-ANN BARRY SPICELAB MEDIA

A native New Yorker with proud Caribbean roots stemming from the island of Grenada, Lu-Ann is the CEO of SpiceLAB Media, boutique project management firm that assists rising stars, community and corporate influencers with aligning their business goals and objectives to maximize their full potential in visibility, leads, and sales conversions for high company growth.

With 20 years of experience under her belt while being a cheerleader of other’s successes, she is on a mission to change mindsets and demonstrate that project management is critical for not only major corporations but also for small businesses.

“When an entrepreneur decides to embrace the power of their vision, they take a more strategic approach to its fulfillment; there’s nothing that can stop the dominance that follows. As a project manager and strategist, it brings me joy to be a partner in that journey of empowerment and success.”

spicelabmedia.com info@spicelabmedia.com @SpiceLAB PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

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BUSINESS

MARY SUE BOYLE THE COLLECTOR’S ROOM BY BEAU MONDE

Beau Monde is a full service event hospitality group with venues based in and around Charlotte, North Carolina.

Beau Monde strives to provide a level of service and transparency that is unparalleled to other venues. The client’s needs are preempted and met with a smile, events planned and executed with precision, and venues dressed to impress your guests. The Collector’s Room is a place to entertain, celebrate, laugh and enjoy loved ones situated in Charlotte’s bustling South End neighborhood. Adjacent to one of South End’s top contemporary art galleries, The Collector’s Room is a renovated warehouse ready for your personal touch. Host as many as three hundred guests or as few as twenty five, the expansive space can flex to meet the needs of your event. Take your guests’ event experience to the next level by curating your own art collection to showcase during your celebration.

However you choose to celebrate, Beau Monde and your special event team will be prepared and ready to impress!

beaumondevenues.com events@beaumondevenues.com @thecollectorsroomclt PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

2020 23

BUSINESS

24 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

MARY SUE BOYLE CIRCLE M FARM BY BEAU MONDE

When establishing Beau Monde Venues, Mary Sue Boyle imagined an unforgettable soiree for both her client and their guests. With the goal of setting the standard for hospitality in the Carolinas, Mary Sue and her team have been creating beautiful venues that serve as the backdrop to corporate, social, and non-profit events.

Beau Monde is a full service event hospitality group with venues based in and around Charlotte, North Carolina.

Beau Monde strives to provide a level of service and transparency that is unparalleled to other venues. The client’s needs are preempted and met with a smile, events planned and executed with precision, and venues dressed to impress your guests.

Circle M Farm is a unique experience. Located outside of Charlotte, in quaint Lincolnton, the eight acre farm offers a homestead for you and your guests to immerse yourselves in, as well as a beautifully restored barn for your main event. The Barn seats up to 200 guests with farm tables, chairs, and limited décor included.

Year round events are welcome in the barn. Whether it’s a winter celebration or spring gala, the barn will be an elegant backdrop for you to host your guests. The rose garden was planted in 2019 and spans over half an acre near the farmhouse. Varieties include David Austin, rich hued Mr. Lincoln’s, and the ever-fragrant Peace rose. Our farmhouse sleeps as many as ten guests and allows you to unplug, invest in your guests, and truly relax. Lush landscape, beautiful sunsets, private chef and concierge on site, Circle M Farm is the ideal location for your wedding celebration, family reunion, or continuing education.

At Beau Monde, we have a shared vision for how to elevate the event landscape. Through unique venues, thoughtful food, curated bar, and exceptional service, Beau Monde exists to delight its clients.

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

980.598.9772

beaumondevenues.com

events@beaumondevenues.com 2020 25

BUSINESS

MELISSA DAWSON WHAT’S UP BUTTERCUP

Melissa’s love of all things flowers came from spending time on the family farm in Eastern NC. It helped her have an appreciation for growing and harvesting but her favorite part was arranging flowers with her grandmother. Flowers were always a creative outlet and hobby for her, even throughout her years in corporate America and her early years as an entrepreneur in finance. In 2014, her hobby turned into a business, and she decided to pursue flowers full time. A decision that landed her on the cover of multiple magazines, designing flowers across the world in dreamy locations and for prestigious clients such as the First Lady. In addition to being a full time mom, she manages to design flowers for about 60 events a year, deck homes and businesses in the greater Charlotte area for the holidays and her latest venture - her Interactive Floral Design studio. whatsupbuttercupllc.com melissa@whatsupbuttercupllc.com @whatsupbuttercupllc

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

26 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

BUSINESS

NIKKI BRADLEY NICHELY, LLC

Nikki Bradley is a brand strategist, business coach, and speaker. She helps women entrepreneurs build their personal brand alongside their business brand so that they can bring out their biggest, baddest, dopest version of themselves. She is an award winning expert and has been recognized for Thought Leadership by Accenture.

A native Charlottean, Nikki is a former top sales and marketing executive and management consultant who has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world. After leaving her Corporate career, Nikki now works with her clients to craft their unique messaging and offers so that they can show up as more of THEM, attract more of the people they were meant to serve, and sell more.

But Nikki’s true passion is for serving through various ministries, community outreach, and her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Nikki is blissfully married and is a mom to a girl boss in the making. info@nikkibradley.net NikkiBradley.net @TheNikkiBradley PHOTO CREDIT:WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

2020 27

BUSINESS

TAMARA JOHNSON SHE E.O. LLC

Tamara Johnson is the cofounder of She E.O. LLC which is a women’s empowerment organization. As a passionate businesswoman, wife and mom she gets how difficult it is for women to juggle a lot at once. Along with her best friend and Founder Kristen Riley, she has built this organization for women to share their experiences, provide advice and make connections to support a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

Tamara also servers as an HR leader for a Charlotte-based organization and has over 14 years’ experience working within the HR profession for small start ups to fortune 500 companies.

Tamara holds a B.A. in Psychology from North Carolina A&T State University and a M.S. in Industrial/ Organizational Psychology from Radford University.

In her spare time, she loves DIY projects, being outside in spending time with family and friends. sheeopower.com sheeobiz@gmail.com @she.eo_inc 28 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

BUSINESS

TENISHA PATTERSON BROWN, ESQ. DEFINITIVE SPORTS GROUP

Tenisha is a business and legal consultant, entrepreneur, author, avid philanthropist, wife and mother. She founded Definitive Sports Group, which specializes in brand and business development, contract negotiations and drafting, and business acquisitions for athletes and small businesses. She also coowns a Tropical Smoothie CafĂŠ franchise.

She avidly writes on her creative blog www.fiercefabulousandflawless.com about life, love, business and family. She is co-author of the book 100 Ways to Stay Married (Released March 2018), and Faith, Friendship & Fertility (Release April 2021).

She has been featured as a Top 30 Under 30 Alumni from Florida State University, on Forbes.com, Black Enterprise

Magazine, Munaluchi Bridal Magazine, and TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress. Her greatest passions are her baby girl, Banx, and speaking life into others. tpbrown@definitivesportsgroup.com @tpattbrown eclayton@definitivesportsgroup.com

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

2020 29

BUSINESS

TONIA LEWIS INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS + SUCCESS COACH, CELEBRITY STYLIST, AND GLOBAL SPEAKER

Tonia Lewis, LCWC, empowers entrepreneurial women from around the globe, who want it ALL, to claim their heart’s desires, unleash their inner money maker, up-level their star power; and stand in their God-given birthright to create RICH lives, and soulfully aligned businesses; in the femininity, know-how & confidence to live their legacy, NOW! A freedom fighter by nature, who’s owned multiple businesses over the last 29 years, while homeschooling her 6 kiddos for 20; Tonia’s an award winning, Certified International Success Coach, Business & Life Strategist, Celebrity Stylist, & Speaker; amidst her MOST beloved roles of Momma and ‘Gammy’; who’s been featured on radio & TV, and shares the virtual stage with some of the most iconic change makers in the transformational industry; while creating yummy VIP luxury experiences throughout the world, for her adored clientele. tonialewis.com @iamtoniamarie 704.293.4479 30 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

BUSINESS

VANESSA Y. STUART JEFFERSON, MBA, PHD ExCELL QUOTIENT CDC

Vanessa Y. Stuart Jefferson, MBA, PhD affectionately known as “Dr. V, the Development Diva” is a respected leader in both the business and nonprofit world.

Dr. V is the Principal & Chief Visionary Strategist of ExCELL Quotient CDC and Founder and Executive Director of 501c3, Human Capital Investment, Inc. (HCI). Vanessa is a NC Board recognized Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychologist with a multicultural background and international experience that spans five continents and the Caribbean. In her consultancy and advocacy, she leverages 20 years of professional experience and education in business strategy, real estate investment and human behavior to enhance effectiveness, strengthen performance and ignite purpose in C-suite leaders, social entrepreneurs, and public servants. Dr. V’s “super power” is her unique ability to channel the “jewels of her journey” to strategically grow and authentically develop legacyminded leaders that outperform in their agencies and industries, empowering change in people & places that TRANSFORMS community.

DrV@eq2lead.com PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

980.446.8086 /dr-v-8751b947/ 2020 31

ON the RISE

... Women to Watch JENEE ANDERSON FarmBaeNae Farmbaenae.com

ERAYNA SARGENT Hooky Wellness hookywellness.com

32 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

COLEEN BRIDGES

Bubbles & Brews Charlotte getcozybars.com

CHARLOTTE BRENNAN

Charlotte Brennan Photography charlottebrennanphotography.com

CLAIRE SHIFLETT

Claire Shiflett Photography claireshiflettphotography@gmail.com

2020 33

FOOD & BEVERAGE

CARRIE MOREY CALLLIE’S HOT LITTLE BISCUIT

Carrie Morey founded her handmade biscuit business in 2005 with the goal of making the tender, buttery biscuits of her mother accessible across the country. Over 15 years later, Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit is widely recognized as an iconic Southern brand with national retail exposure and a cult-like following.

Touted by Saveur, Food & Wine, Southern Living, The New York Times, Bake from Scratch, and Oprah among others, Carrie and her team of bakers are keeping the tradition of Southern biscuit making alive.

Carrie’s grab-and-go eateries are located in Charleston, Atlanta, and Charlotte; and her food truck, Butter, travels throughout the lowcountry.

Carrie authored Callie’s Biscuits and Southern Traditions, a cookbook and narrative on entrepreneurship and life in the lowcountry. Carrie has appeared live on the NBC Today Show, The Martha Stewart Show, Fox & Friends, The Hallmark Channel, Top Chef and QVC and has been profiled numerous times by The Food Network and Cooking Channel.

Her artisan goods have garnered 20 sofi awards from the Specialty Foods Association. calliesbiscuits.com info@calliesbiscuits.com 843.577.1198 34 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: NICOLE DANIELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

HEALTH & WELLNESS

ADRIENNE WEI INNER PEACE ACUPUNCTURE FOR WOMEN

Adrienne is a Board-Certified Fertility Acupuncturist, Herbalist, and Fellow of American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (ABORM). She is the Founder of Inner Peace Acupuncture for Women in Charlotte, NC, where she offers her trademarked methodology, Practically Fertile®, as an east meets west integrative approach to fertility.

Recently she created a product line called Two Elefants™ in response to over a decade of learning the needs of her patients and followers. Adrienne is passionate about helping women with fertility challenges and believes they can be overcome when the true underlying obstacles are discovered.

Her outreach is world-wide, thanks to her Practically Fertile® Podcast and virtual education programs.

Adrienne is also Co-Owner of the food delivery service, The Blossoming Kitchen, which provides weekly prepared, gluten-free, organic meals while supporting local sources.

As a wife and mother to a 9-year old daughter, Adrienne is proudly devoted to female health and empowerment. ipacupuncture.com 2elefants.com

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

@adrienne.wei 2020 35

HEALTH & WELLNESS

ALICIA TETTEH BUILDING ENDURANCE PLLC

Alicia Tetteh, LCSW, RYT-200 identifies as a change agent. She practices as an outpatient therapist at her private practice, Building Endurance PLLC, located in Charlotte, NC. She also is a Lecturer at UNC Charlotte in the School of Social Work.

Alicia believes sincerely in the power of change and walks firmly in her faith.

She co-hosts a podcast with a friend, 2 Elephants in the Room, talking about mental health. Alicia is a member of the Therapist Advisory Board for Foster Village Charlotte and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. In her free time, she loves to share a good meal and laugh with friends and family; read suspense books, or any outdoor activities.

980.288.5486 alicia@buildingendurancepllc.com @_AliciaOctavia

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

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HEALTH & WELLNESS GRACE GALLAGHER, ERIN GARBER & MICHELLE NORRIS SWEATNET

Grace, Erin & Michelle all became fast friends and coworkers due to one common activity; Fitness. The founders of SweatNET have built one of the countries fastest growing and most locally oriented wellness platforms. SweatNET was created with one goal, to make fitness more accessible and inclusive to all people in our communities. SweatNET has expanded from Charlotte into over 20 cities with no plans on stopping. SweatNET not only makes health and wellness accessible to individuals, but its community oriented corporate wellness programs have made a huge impact on local business as well.

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

@sweatnet

sweatnet.com

@sweatnetcharlotte 2020 37

HEALTH & WELLNESS

KERRI FLANIGAN AIR ®️ AERIAL FITNESS; CLEAN YOUR DIRTY FACE (SOUTHPARK)

Kerri’s positive attitude coupled with her keen drive to grow and inspire the fitness community in Charlotte quickly launched her from part time front desk ex-athlete and college graduate to proud owner of multiple business. Her current portfolio consisting of AIR®️ Aerial Fitness SouthPark and Clean Your Dirty Face SouthPark has weathered the rough terrain of the 2020 pandemic. Kerri has taken the opportunity to find new and innovative ways of serving her community, and be grateful for the silver linings that have come 2020.

Her humble Canadian roots have kept her grounded in the things she holds closest to her heart - her family, husband and their newly born son.

As founder of TheGoodRootsMvmt she patiently awaits for the world to re-open so she can continue leading her one of a kind retreats; destinations of her past retreats have included magical locations in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. airfitnow.com cleanyourdirtyface.com @airfitcharlotte PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

KRISTIN CABEDA PLUMPED CHARLOTTE

Kristin Cabeda knows confidence is powerful—and nothing makes women feel more confident than loving the skin they’re in. Empowering clients to feel radiant since 2012, Kristin redefines beauty at every age with innovative, non-invasive treatments for gorgeous, natural results. Board certified PA, master injector, and owner of her uptown aesthetic boutique, Plumped, Kristin has become known for her artistry and flawless techniques, leading her to become a National Trainer for PDO Threading, a skin-tightening treatment she first introduced to the Charlotte area in 2016. Similarly, Kristin’s reputation for advanced injections has garnered praise from high-profile clients and celebrities, who seek out her aesthetic craftsmanship & unparalleled passion for the stunning results they desire. In 2020, Kristin was nominated for the title of 100 Best Aesthetic Injectors in the country. Ultimately, it is Kristin’s mission to help clients reclaim their confidence without invasive surgeries. plumpedclt.com 704.526.9321 @plumpedclt PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

2020 39

HEALTH & WELLNESS

DR. LISA FOLDEN HEALTHY PHIT PHYSICAL THERAPY & WELLNESS

Dr. Lisa Folden is a licensed physical therapist and mom lifestyle coach. As a movement and women’s health expert, she helps busy moms find their ‘healthy.’ She provides guidance on the wellness journey through optimal organization, planning strategies and wholistic goal setting.

The owner of Healthy Phit Physical Therapy & Wellness in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Folden works with clients recovering from pain and injury. In addition to managing a private practice and being a wife, Dr. Lisa is a #PhitMom of three and published author of “Healthy Made Easy: The Ultimate Wellness Guide for Busy Moms.”

A regular contributor to articles on topics related to health, wellness, self-care, motherhood, pregnancy and pain, she has been featured in Oprah Magazine, Shape Magazine, Livestrong and more. Always urging women to love themselves more, Dr. Lisa is a proud body positive advocate for the Health at Every Size movement.

HealthyPhit.com @HealthyPhit info@HealthyPhit.com

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

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HOME & LIFE

ANNE BURESH ANNE BURESH INTERIOR DESIGN

Anne Buresh Interior Design is an awardwinning, full service interior design firm that has been featured in Elle Décor, House Beautiful, Western Home Journal, Home Design and Décor, and many other publications that highlight her elegant sanctuaries. Located in Charlotte, North Carolina and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Anne brings a passion for defining her clients’ unique taste to every project.

She has spent the past decade focusing on collaborations that involve a wide variety of projects ranging from new builds to large scale renovations. Anne’s design process is built to ensure all budgets, schedules, and key decisions are communicated with complete clarity.

Above all, her inspiration supports holistic well-being that merges chic style with timeless serenity. She does not believe in a “one size fits all” mentality, but works to tailor her designs to meet her clients’ specific needs. Anne Buresh believes your home should be the best reflection of you. anneburesh.com anneburesh@gmail.com @annebureshinteriordesign PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

2020 41

HOME & LIFE

CHARLOTTE TESTA DESIGNS UNLTD STAGING

Charlotte Testa has always had a creative passion and an eye for design. She graduated from UNC Greensboro with a degree in Fashion and Apparel Design and worked for several years as an Apparel Designer for some of the most recognizable brands in America. She eventually turned her eye for style and aesthetics towards the world of Interior Design. What she found most rewarding and exciting wasn’t stuffing a home full of high end furnishings, but maximizing the style, personality, and livability of a home, often by reimagining the use of existing furnishings and design elements. Home staging offered the creative and entrepreneurial sweet spot she had been looking for. So, in 2013 she started Designs Unltd Staging and has been a trusted partner of realtors and home sellers in the greater Charlotte area ever since. Her goal when working with a client is always the same‌to help them maximize the resale value of their home with the least amount of time on market possible. She accomplishes this by creating a vision for any prospective buyer of the true beauty and potential of the home. Nothing quite matches the satisfaction of helping a client successfully maximize the return on their biggest investment!

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

designsunltd1.com 42 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

@designsunltd

designsunltd1@yahoo.com

HOME & LIFE

LIZ WILLIAMSON METRO’S OTHER WOMAN

Liz Williamson, Owner of metro’s other woman® of Charlotte and her team of assistants bring the solution to your biggest challenges with all-in-one services for the busy professional and business owners who are on-the-go but wise enough to delegate and share the load.

A fully licensed and bonded business and personal assisting firm, metro’s other woman® understands your busy life.

Offering an array of services that cover every last one of those demanding details that complicate your life. From errands and laundry to complete overhauls and moves, consider it done.

It’s through hustle and heart that her team of assistants ensure every client feels like they can breathe again and have accomplished their to do list. Not only does she empower those that work for metro’s other woman® to live their best life, they help empower their clients to do the same.

PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY

704.733.7375

metrosotherwoman.com

charlotte@metrosotherwoman.com 2020 43

HOME & LIFE HEIDI MARIA WILLIAMS VATICHÉ

The most sacred place on earth should be home, designed as a perfect haven for those who live there, stylistically curated with a meaningful, gracious aesthetic through beautiful functionality. At Vatiché, Heidi Maria Williams and Rachel Drees consider it an honor to be invited into their clients’ lives and homes, listening to their stories, discovering their unique style, executing projects down to the last detail. With refreshing design perspective balancing interior harmony, symmetry, proportion and timeless style, each project is personal, valued and incredibly important.

heidi.maria.will@gmail.com vatichemagique@gmail.com @heidimaria PHOTO CREDIT:WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

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HOME & LIFE

KIPPEN PRIEST MADE BY KIPPEN

Kippen’s adventure with candle making started over two years ago while on the hunt to produce a high quality, sustainable, yet clean burning candle. With her love for modern decor, combined with the desire to make a unique product, she launched her concrete candle business, Made by Kippen, in the fall of 2018. What started as only one sized candle, has since led to an assortment of options, as well as a home decor line including trays, planters, and vases.

Kippen lives in South Charlotte with her husband, three daughters and two Goldendoodles. Each and every product is hand poured out of her home, and no two pieces are ever the same.

STINE PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGU

madebykippen.com

@Madebykippen

madebykippen@gmail.com 2020 45

HOME & LIFE

MELISSA HERRIOTT M.HERRIOTT ART

Melissa Herriott is a Charlotte-based artist. While she appreciates realism in art, she gravitates towards the abstract.

Her hope is to make you FEEL something.

She believes that art speaks to places inside of us that can’t be reached with words. Melissa’s work can be found all over Charlotte. Melissa has received awards at juried art shows; painted live for benefits at The Mint Museum and The Ballantyne Hotel, and been featured in QC Exclusive Magazine. Melissa works one-on-one with clients to create custom pieces and makes the rest of her work available on her website and Instagram.

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

@Melissa Herriott 46 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

MHerriottART.com

@Melissa Herriott

HOME & LIFE

MELISSA O’BRIEN KELLER WILLIAMS, CHARLOTTE AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Melissa’s dedication, passion, high energy and remarkable communication directly attributes to her client’s real estate successes. Whether it’s a firsttime homebuyer, seasoned investor or someone relocating to the area, she is known for her quality service, market knowledge and professionalism during each transaction.

With Bachelors of Science Degrees in both Real Estate and Finance from Florida State University, experience in home lending and managing her own investment properties, Melissa has a deep understanding of each phase of the real estate transaction.

Melissa’s commitment to listening to each client’s needs and utilizing her keen negotiating skills ensures seamless and successful transactions.

Each buyer or seller is unique and Melissa goes above and beyond to understand their needs and find the right fit for them.

When Melissa is not working tirelessly for her clients, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband (Mark) and three little boys (Mikey, Mac and Mason). melissaobrien.kw.com @melissaobrienrealtor @melissaobrien_realtor PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE

2020 47

HOME & LIFE

NELVIA BULLOCK COSTELLO REAL ESTATE & INVESTMENTS

Driven by passion, purpose and integrity, Nelvia is a top producing North Carolina and South Carolina Realtor® with Costello Real Estate and Investments. She also serves as the firm’s Director of Culture.

Her above-and-beyond customer service is supported by the industry’s most important training. She earned the ABR® designation to deliver the best in buyerrepresentation services and the Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA) certification to help buyers and sellers better understand pricing.

She was the proud recipient of the 2018 Significant Impact Award for exceptional leadership and performance. In October 2020, she was featured on the cover of Charlotte Real Producers magazine as a Rising Star in the local real estate market.

Nelvia’s greatest work has been family.

Husband, Todd, their children, Madison and Maxwell, as well as their fur baby, are her why.

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

nelviabullock.costellorei.com 48 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

@nelviabullockrealtor

nelvia@costellorei.com

HOME & LIFE

WYETH AUGUSTINE WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Wyeth Augustine is a Charlotte based photographer spreading joy through photography all around the South! In addition to her primary career as a wedding photographer, Wyeth loves to empower and support women entrepreneurs through branding photography. A Mississippi girl at heart, Wyeth went to Ole Miss (Hotty Toddy!) and then moved to Charlotte in 2014 to work with the Carolina Panthers. After a four year career with The Savannah College of Art and Design, Wyeth started her business in January 2019 and became a full-time photographer about a year later. Both Wyeth’s parents and sister are professional photographers, so you could definitely say it runs in the family! As a photographer, Wyeth’s main goal is making her couples, families, and entrepreneurs feel comfortable in front of the camera, celebrated, and full of joy during each session.

She’s been blessed with photographing weddings all over the South and beyond, and can’t wait to see where her camera takes her next!

wyethaugustine.com @wyethaugustine wyeth@wyethaugustinephoto.com

PHOTO CREDIT: CASEY AUGUSTINE

2020 49

MEDIA

KERI BONFILI THEKBONFILI.COM

Keri Bonfili is an authority on strategic communications and PR with a deep network of media connections to help brands stand out. As a former news anchor and reporter, Bonfili knows what the media wants, and this experience serves as the foundation for the powerful and inventive programs she designs as the CEO and founder of thekbonfili.com, a Charlotte-area boutique agency.

When you hire Keri Bonfili, you get an ally. You get an expert adept at creating compelling content and an agency that positions clients as category leaders. Her approach is equal parts bold, brilliant and resourceful.

Bonfili’s consistent results deliver clients media coverage in national, regional and local media outlets such as: ABC News, BuzzFeed, Forbes, Huffington Post, NBCNews.com, O, The Oprah Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Charlotte Business Journal, Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Five, Charlotte Agenda and many others across the U.S. keri@thekbonfili.com thekbonfili.com @thekbonfili PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE

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NON-PROFIT

ALLISON BIRKMEYER THE QUIET CLOT®

Allison Birkmeyer is the Founder and CEO of The Quiet Clot®, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide blood clot awareness, prevention, educate on recovery and offer support for all people.

In May 2018, Allison was admitted to the ICU for difficulty breathing. Doctors told her “she should not be alive” after being diagnosed with a bilateral Pulmonary Embolism (PE) and a 3” Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in her calf. They attributed healthy eating, marathon training and indoor cycling to saving her life.

The months following this traumatic experience came with many emotional and mental challenges. This life changing moment coupled with discovering blood clots are common, do not discriminate and are rarely talked about sparked a new calling for her to start The Quiet Clot®. It is Allison’s hope that she can use her experience and this platform to positively impact one person’s life. thequietclot.com allison@thquietclot.com @thequietclot

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

2020 51

NON-PROFIT

AMBER TRACEWELL CAROLINA BREAST FRIENDS

Amber has a heart for helping others.

Helping those in need started at an early age and runs through her core.

Friends and family in her hometown in West Virginia frequently found her volunteering at the local soup kitchen, coordinating food and clothing drives, and leading her school’s community service club. Naturally, her love for giving back led to her career in philanthropy.

With almost 15 years in the nonprofit industry, she has spent the last 5 serving as the Senior Director of Development at Carolina Breast Friends (The Pink House). As the organization’s first ever development professional on staff, she has been integral to the organization’s growth, leading record-breaking fundraisers and establishing strong donor partnerships.

Give Amber the challenge of identifying a community need and she will build the relationships and resources to help alleviate that need. carolinabreastfriends.org 704.370.7773 atracewell@carolinabreastfriends.org

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PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

NON-PROFIT

ASHLEY HORTON YELLOW PAW PRINTS

Ashley is a former Marine who moved to Charlotte in 2008. Upon her retirement in 2011, Ashley completed her B.A., M.S. in Canine Humane Life Sciences and several certifications while opening her own private dog training company- Yellow Paw Prints. Her training expertise varies from basic obedience, behavior modification, therapy dog preparation and service dog training for those with medical needs. To fuel Ashley’s passion, she is a licensed Real Estate agent in NC and SC which supports her dog habit. Ashley’s goal is to create her own training program to allow access to education for prospective and current dog trainers and dog training clients. Ashley attributes her success and purpose to her dog, Bailey, who has faithfully served as her own service dog and best friend for nearly a decade. Because of Bailey, Ashley felt inspired enough to continue her education and open her own business to help others.

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

yellowpawprints.com

@yellowpawprintsclt

@yellowpawprintsclt 2020 53

NON-PROFIT BETH REISINGER Beth joined KNOW in 2019 for her work as part of the governing board for Phi Mu Fraternity for Women. A longtime volunteer for the organization, Beth has since turned her focus to sharing her talents across the greater National Panhellenic Conference as member of the Equity and Access Advisory Board Committee. In addition to serving NPC, Beth also joined KNOW’s Diversity Team. Beth was inspired by the opportunity to work with KNOW on creating a diverse and inclusive organization as part of the Diversity Team and as a Contributor in Charlotte. Beth continues to work for Bank of America and currently leads a Global Leadership Program for Technology and Operations leaders. Beth is proud to support our Charlotte KNOW sisters: Jewelry by Erin McDermott Jewelry, Skirt by Chrystal Rose and Rebellia and Hair by Jackie Paynter and Drybar Charlotte.

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Beth.reisinger@gmail.com 54 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

@bethr1852

/beth-reisinger-4001675

NON-PROFIT

SARAH COLON-HARRIS FOUNDER & CEO SHE FLEW THE COOP

Sarah Colón - Harris is an awardwinning journalist, producer, host, social entrepreneur and visionary leader driven by strategic instincts and heart.

After interviewing thousands of people and spending more than a decade reporting on trials, crime, politics and everything in-between, Sarah felt led to “fly the coop of comfort.”

A single mom to a teenage son at the time, Sarah made the difficult, yet exciting decision to leave TV news in 2013 and start her own film and event production company, Stories to Inspire.

In 2015, Sarah launched the She Flew the Coop (SFTC) movement, which includes monthly meetups, panel discussions, workshops and a growing community of women united in stepping out of their comfort zone to discover their true selves and purpose. Sarah draws upon her journalism roots to lead women to selfdiscovery through authentic conversation.

The She Flew the Coop documentary which chronicles the evolution of Sarah’s journey into building the community - is currently in post- production. sheflewthecoop.org Sarah@sheflewthecoop.org @sheflewthecoop

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

2020 55

NOTABLE JESSICA K. BATTLE, ESQUIRE LEAD COUNSEL, CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG POLICE DEPARTMENT

A tenacious advocate and zealous leader, Jessica K. Battle is more than an attorney. She is a career public servant who takes her fierceness into the courtroom and into the community.

Jessica is the eighth attorney in her family—all of whom are women. This is why she is passionate about helping teenage girls realize their full potential.

Jessica mentors through several of the Police Department’s youth programs and also serves as a Teen Court Judge.

She has dedicated her career to public service and encourages her clients and mentees to do the right thing, every time.

She proudly serves as the lead Police Attorney for the 15th largest city in the United States.

Jessica was honored as a “2019 Rising Star” by North Carolina Lawyers

Weekly and was a member of the 2020 Mecklenburg County Bar Leadership Institute.

She is a proud Virginia Tech alumna who truly lives by the University’s motto: “ut prosim”—“that I may serve.” Her family and her faith keep her motivated to continue a lifetime of service.

PHOTO CREDIT: WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

@jessica.esquire 56 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

/jessicakbattle

NOTABLE

ALMA S. ADAMS, PH.D NC HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. was elected to Congress in 2014 after 10 terms in the General Assembly, where she chaired the Legislative Black Caucus and enacted the state’s first minimum wage increase in nine years. Born in High Point and now representing Charlotte in Congress, Congresswoman Adams is Chairwoman of the Committee on Education & Labor’s Subcommittee on Workforce Protections and Vice Chairwoman to the Committee on Agriculture, while also serving on the Financial Services Committee. The Congresswoman is the co-founder and co-chair of the Black Maternal Health Caucus and the Congressional Bipartisan Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caucus.

Her signature accomplishment this Congress was enacting H.R. 5363, the FUTURE Act, which permanently provides $255 million a year for all HBCUs and minority serving institutions. Congresswoman Adams has dedicated her career – as both a professor and public servant – to ensuring all people have access to a quality education.

Adams.house.gov 202.225.1510 @RepAdams PHOTO CREDIT: FRANMARIE METZLER, HOUSE CREATIVE SERVICES

2020 57

NOTABLE

NIMISHA KURUP BANK OF AMERICA

Nimisha joined the Charlotte community at the end of January 2019 as the Head of Treasury Data Management at Bank of America. She relocated from London after a robust career at Lloyds Banking Group.

A passionate advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion, she was the co-chair of the Lloyds’ REACH (Race, Ethnicity and Cultural Heritage) network. Nimisha is also one of the founding members and sponsor for the cross-industry “Ethnicity in the City” program in London. She was listed in the Financial Times Top 100 Empower Ethnic Minority Executives in the UK, Europe and North America 2018. Nimisha is the Executive Sponsor, of BoA’s Treasury’s New Diversity Initiatives.

Nimisha lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her youngest son, Lord Fujington, aka Fuj, the Golden Labrador. Her older two sons are both in university in the Netherlands and UK.

Nimisha_uk@yahoo.com 58 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

/nimisha-k-4783607

of WOMEN

IMPACT BRITTANY MOORE

United State of Women Ambassador/ Founder Her In Hers Brittany is a dynamic leader within our community as she has championed Voter Registration through her work as the North Carolina Ambassador for The United State Of Women. She also started her own business during the pandemic as a way to help empower and uplift female farmers in Africa. She plans to launch her first line of organic cotton sheets and home dĂŠcor in Spring 2021.

ERICIA TURNER Principal, Rocky River High School Ericia Turner currently serves as the principal at Rocky River High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. Prior to becoming a school administrator, she taught health and physical education courses in the Winston Salem/Forsyth County and Charlotte Mecklenburg School Systems. In addition to teaching, she coached basketball, football, track, volleyball, and softball. In June 2009, she accepted her first position as assistant principal at Newton Conover High School where she would also serve as athletic director. Then, in March 2012, she became the Director of Athletics for the Alamance Burlington School System until she accepted her first position as principal within the Iredell Statesville School System and where she would remain until accepting the opportunity to lead as principal within Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools at Rocky River High School.

2020 59

CEL SMART Vol 2

Page 81

BETH KLINEMAN Edtechtrain LLC Vol 2 Page 36

JENNIFER BRUNELLI Sports RDpro Vol 1 Page 55

ALUMNAE

KNOW CHARLOTTE BOOK ALUMNAE

JENNY MELICK

Roses and Azalea Vol 2 Page 16 60 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

NESHA PAI

Pai CPA Vol 1 Page 30

AMY WALSH

Charlotte Candle Company Vol 2 Page 59

JACKIE PAYNTER DryBar Vol 2 Page 13

SHELL RICHARDSON Elegant Connexions Vol 2 Page 47

BRITTNEY BOGUES

Bogues Consulting Group Vol 1 Page 23

ALUMNAE

KNOW CHARLOTTE BOOK ALUMNAE

NAKEISHA NANCE

Premier Beauty Studio Vol 2 Page 19

EMILY ZIMMERMANN Grace Communications Vol 2 Page 37

LISA THOMAS

Philly Pretzel Factory Vol 2 Page 53 2020 61

index

Katherine Katz................................................ BLUSH & GLOW BEAUTY COLLECTIVE............... Beauty.............................................................. 11 Angela Wheeler............................................... WHEELUX REALTY.............................................. Business........................................................... 12 Arden McLaughlin........................................... DEFINITA: PUBLICITY & MARKETING................. Business........................................................... 13 Carolina Aponte.............................................. CAJA HOLDINGS................................................ Business........................................................... 14 Christy Miller.................................................. CHRISTY MILLER CONSULTING.......................... Business........................................................... 15 Elena Arecco Bridgmon................................... EPIC LIFE COACH LLC......................................... Business........................................................... 16 Jacinda Jacobs, Diana McFarlane, Melody McCord Stephens..................................................... ...................................................................... UNIQUELY QUALIFIED INC.................................. Business........................................................... 17 LaPronda Spann.............................................. LAIN CONSULTING, LLC...................................... Business........................................................... 18 Lori Keeton..................................................... LORI KEETON LAW............................................. Business........................................................... 19 Laurie Turner.................................................. HIRE QUEST DIRECT........................................... Business...................................................... 20-21 Lu-Ann Barry.................................................. SPICE LAB MEDIA............................................... Business........................................................... 22 Mary Sue Boyle.............................................. THE COLLECTOR’S ROOM.................................. Buisness........................................................... 23 Mary Sue Boyle.............................................. CIRCLE M FARMS............................................... Business...................................................... 24-25 Melissa Dawson............................................. WHAT’S UP BUTTERCUP.................................... Business........................................................... 26 Nikki Bradley............................................................................................................................. Business........................................................... 27 Tamara Johnson............................................. SHE E.O. INC....................................................... Business........................................................... 28 Tenisha Patterson Brown................................ DEFINITIVE SPORTS GROUP............................... Business........................................................... 29 Tonia Lewis.................................................... TONIA LEWIS INTERNATIONAL/EDEN INC.................Business........................................................... 30 Vanessa Stuart............................................... EXCELL QUOTIENT............................................. Business........................................................... 31 Carrie Morey................................................... CALLIE’S HOT LITTLE BISCUITS......................... Food & Bev....................................................... 34 Adrienne Wei.................................................. INNER PEACE ACUPUNCTURE FOR WOMEN....... Health & Wellness............................................. 35 Alicia Tetteh................................................... BUILDING ENDURANCE...................................... Health & Wellness............................................. 36 Grace Gallagher, Erin Garber & Michelle Norris....SWEATNET......................................................... Health & Wellness............................................. 37 62 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

Kerri Flannigan................................................ AIR FIT CHARLOTTE & CLEAN YOUR DIRTY FACE ...................................................................... ........................................................................... Health & Wellness............................................. 38 Kristin Cabeda................................................ PLUMPED CHARLOTTE....................................... Health & Wellness............................................. 39 Dr. Lisa Folden................................................ HEALTHY PHIT PHYSICAL THERAPY & WELLNESS ...................................................................... ........................................................................... Health & Wellness............................................. 40 Anne Buresh................................................... ANNE BURESH INTERIOR DESIGNS.................... Home & Life...................................................... 41 Charlotte Testa............................................... DESIGNS UNLTD STAGING................................. Home & Life...................................................... 42 Elizabeth Williamson........................................ METRO’S OTHER WOMAN.................................. Home & Life...................................................... 43 Heidi Williams................................................. VATICHE............................................................. Home & Life...................................................... 44 Kippen Priest.................................................. MADE BY KIPPEN............................................... Home & Life...................................................... 45 Melissa Herriot............................................... M. HERRIOTT ART.............................................. Home & Life...................................................... 46 Melissa O’Brien............................................... KELLER WILLIAMS BALLANTYNE AREA.............. Home & LIfe...................................................... 47 Nelvia Bullock................................................. COSTELLO REAL ESTATE................................... Home & Life...................................................... 48 Wyeth Augustine............................................ WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY.................. Home & Life...................................................... 49 Keri Bonfili...................................................... THE K BONFILI.................................................... Media................................................................ 50 Allison Birkmeyer............................................ THE QUIET CLOT................................................ Non-Profit......................................................... 51 Amber Tracewell............................................ CAROLINA BREAST FRIENDS............................. Non-Profit......................................................... 52 Ashley Horton................................................. YELLOW PAW PRINTS........................................ Non-Profit......................................................... 53 Beth Reisinger........................................................................................................................... Non-Profit......................................................... 54 Sarah Colon Harris.......................................... SHE FLEW THE COOP.......................................... Non-Profit......................................................... 55 Jessica Battle................................................. CHARLOTTE MECKLENBERG POLICE DEPARTMENT ...................................................................... ........................................................................... Notable............................................................. 56 NC House of Representatives.......................... ALMA ADAMS.................................................... Notable............................................................. 57 Nimisha Kurup................................................ BANK OF AMERICA............................................ Notable............................................................. 58

2020 63

BRING

TO YOUR CITY FEATURING WOMEN YOU SHOULD KNOW AND DO BUSINESS WITH

The KNOW Women Book + Collaborative We are searching for influencers, tastemakers, and fellow dynamic women who are well-connected, savvy, in tune with community, and believe in our mission to lift & rise women. If this is you, become a KNOW Ambassador! Connect with us at KNOW Publications to find out how to bring how to bring the KNOW Women to your city!

For more information: hello@theknowwomen.com

64 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM

2020 KNOW CHARLOTTE BOOK Community Partners WYETH AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHY THE COLLECTORS ROOM CIRCLE M FARMS CALLIE’S HOT BISCUIT METRO OTHER WOMEN THE QUIET CLOT

KNOW Charlotte is an annual publication that features dynamic women in virtually every industry. Every woman featured in KNOW Charlotte has been vetted through peer-review. Because our mission is to showcase the best and brightest, the only way one can claim their slot is through nomination. The women featured are a compilation of proven leaders, high producers, and rising stars. Those published in KNOW Charlotte are also considered trendsetters, influencers, and women to watch.

KNOW Charlotte is published annually and distributed to affluent decision makers through social and networking events and partnering businesses. While deemed the new who’s who, KNOW Charlotte also delivers readers a vetted list of local female-run businesses. Simply open the KNOW Book and find the next local woman-led business you can support with goods and services you need now!

KNOW Charlotte is produced by The KNOW Women TM. The women featured in this volume have been vetted by their peers and are known leaders in their industry. For consideration in an upcoming volume of KNOW, go to theknowwomen.com and complete a submission.

BEAUTY | BUSINESS | FASHION | FOOD & BEVERAGE | HEALTH & WELLNESS HOME & LIFE | MEDIA | ENTERTAINMENT | NON-PROFIT | NOTABLE Bring the KNOW Book to your city! Š2020 The Know Tribe, LLC., all rights reserved.

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