October 2025
Welcome to the VOTE!
October Issue
an you hear that? The rustling of changing leaves as a crisp autumn breeze moves through the oak, poplar, sweet gum and maple trees is a sound that will always bring a smile to my face. It means a few things. Most importantly, it means relief. I’m one of those unfortunate souls who, even after all these years living in the beautiful south, has never learned to adjust to summer’s oppressive heat and humidity. It also means a welcome wardrobe switch. I’ve never been big on sheer or skimpy clothes, so summer is one long stretch of skin-baring squeamishness. It’s finally time to pull out my favorite hoodies, comfortable sweaters and jeans from their summer hibernation.
I’m sure I’m not alone in this ritual. And very likely, I’m not alone in taking a closer look at what comes out of that storage area of my closet and thinking that, as comfortable as those clothes will be, they look a little, well, tired. For every comfortable, well-worn sweater in our possession, there are likely several others that just flat out look like they belong in a time capsule. If you’re finding yourself in this fashion predicament, have we got the solution for you.
On the off chance that you’re not already familiar with this fantastic shopping destination, we introduce you this month to Aqua B Boutique. With locations in Hickory, Viewmont, Morganton and Blowing Rock, owner Michele Willis offers boutique clothing for all ages and sizes. Her team of dedicated stylists are ready to help you find the clothing, shoes
By Lori Helms
and accessories that fit your style, your size and your budget. Turn to Page 10 to learn more about her years-long journey to bring what Willis calls “carefully curated styles for every size, shape and season of life.”
We’re also announcing in this issue the next round of voting for our 2025 Best of the Foothills Reader’s Choice Awards. There are more than two dozen categories to choose from to nominate and vote for your favorite small business. Winners will be announced in our February 2026 issue. Page 16 has all the information you need to take part in the contest – make sure your voice is heard!
— LH Lori Helms Editor lori@lncurrents.com
on the cover
FASHION WITH A PASSION FOR
EVERY WOMAN
By Mallorie Sweet
After years of running her first local business, Style Exchange, Michele Willis says she felt a pull toward something new — what she describes as a dream rooted in creativity, community and fashion for every woman. In 2011, that dream came to life when Aqua B Boutique opened its doors for the very first time.
Since Aqua B’s owner and founder opened her first storefront in Hickory, Willis has expanded the boutique’s footprint and brand into multiple locations and an online store, making it easier than ever for women to shop and feel their best. Today, Aqua B proudly serves the Hickory, Viewmont, Morganton and Blowing Rock areas of western North Carolina with a team of about 30 dedicated stylists who share a passion for making women feel confident, stylish and celebrated.
Photos by Shane Greene Photography
Aqua B stylists love spotting new fall favorites for everyone — stop by and shop with them today.
on the cover
“The best outfit anyone can truly wear is confidence and a smile,” says Willis, who leads her business with a vision to create more than just a shopping experience. “True style begins the moment you decide to be yourself.”
Aqua B offers a wide variety of clothing, shoes and accessories, carefully chosen to meet the needs of women in every season of life. Willis says what began as a small boutique vision has grown into something beyond her wildest dreams. Today, Aqua B has not just four storefront locations, but a 27,000-squarefoot warehouse, an outlet store and a dynamic team of incredible employees — all working together to offer carefully curated styles for every size, shape and season of life.
“The Aqua B team is the heartbeat of the boutique,” she says.
“From store managers who know customers by name to stylists who go above and beyond, the team’s dedication is what makes Aqua B special. I’m proud to lead such a talented, passionate group of women who embody the spirit of the brand every day.”
Whether shopping in one of its welcoming storefront locations or browsing online, Willis says customers can expect affordable, wearable and versatile pieces designed to fit their lifestyles at every age and in every size.
“We handpick each piece with care, making sure our customers feel proud, confident and comfortable wearing it in their everyday lives,” Willis says. While known for its carefully selected apparel and accessories, what truly makes Aqua B Boutique a special shopping experience is the team’s heart for people.
Viewmont Store Manager, Jena Ivey, surrounded by clothing and accessories that celebrate confidence, comfort and style for every woman.
“Here, the goal isn’t just selling clothes, it’s helping every woman feel confident in her own skin ...”
Downtown Hickory Store Manager, Brittany Auton, standing with the boutique’s favorite fall-inspired collection pieces, made to carry you through the season with style.
The Aqua B team of stylists in action, putting together the perfect outfit just for you.
“Here, the goal isn’t just selling clothes, it’s helping every woman feel confident in her own skin,” she says. “From the moment you walk through the door, a stylist is ready to listen, offer guidance and help you find pieces that make you look and feel your best. Every shopping experience is personal, encouraging and welcoming. Aqua B believes style has no age or size limit and tries to provide every ‘body’ at every ‘age’ the opportunity to find pieces they will love. There’s a special joy in helping someone rediscover their confidence and feel that spark again.”
And Willis’ heart for people extends beyond the walls of her boutique. She regularly supports local causes to help those in need, never missing a chance to give back and make a positive impact on the community she says has shown her so much love and support. The boutique also hosts shopping events for the community, including pop-up shows, that make shopping fun and convenient for everyone.
As a woman-owned business, Willis says she knows firsthand the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. She has worked hard to build Aqua B from the ground up, overcoming obstacles while creating a supportive environment for her team.
“Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside so many incredible women,” she says. “Whether through teachable moments or lending a helping hand, I’ve been inspired to create a team of women who know they can always count on me, including our customers. Supporting our customers has always been at the heart of what I do. At Aqua B, we are family.”
From its beginnings in 2011 to today’s multiple stores and online success, Aqua B has grown significantly. Looking ahead, Willis says she approaches her plans for future growth thoughtfully, ensuring every new step keeps the same boutique feel and personal touch that customers have come to love.
“We’re looking forward to some exciting changes that will make shopping with Aqua B easier than ever,” Willis says, “and who knows, we might even be coming to you.”
ROCK - 1150 Main Street learn more
www.shopaquab.com
HICKORY - 262 Union Square
VIEWMONT - 2120 North Center Street
- 114 West Union Street
Cast Your Vote!
Is there a small business that you have enjoyed shopping with or who offered you great customer service? Let them know by voting for your favorites! 2025’s Best of the Foothills winners will be announced in our February issue.
What’s Cooking?
Celebrate Fall with Apple Deliciousness
By Kathy Dicken Photograph courtesy Kathy Dicken
Apple Fritter Cake
Servings: 9
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
INGREDIENTS:
Apple Mixture
2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
3 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples
(I used 3 Honeycrisp apples)
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 tsp. cinnamon
Cake
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
2 tsp. vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. allspice
2 Tbsp. light brown sugar (for topping)
Glaze
1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1-1/2 Tbsp. milk
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract
Kathy Dicken lives in Huntersville and is the author of the food blog, The Tasty Bits. For more meal ideas that are simple and delicious, you can follow her blog at www.thetastybits.com or on Instagram @thetastybits.
The only apple cake recipe you’ll ever need is here. This Apple Fritter Cake is amazingly moist and fluffy, featuring the perfect blend of sweetness, warmth and spice. It’s got all the warm, gooey, cinnamon-spiced goodness of an apple fritter, packed into a perfectly moist and fluffy cake. With a simple drizzle on top, it’s guaranteed to be your new go-to.
Enjoy the warm smells of fall while this cake bakes away. It’s the ultimate fall treat! Serve with coffee, hot cocoa or a steaming mug of cider. And make sure the candles are burning ... you’ll certainly have created the perfect autumn experience.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 350°. Spray an 8x8 pan with non-stick cooking spray and line with parchment paper. Spray the paper with nonstick spray and set aside.
Place a skillet over medium heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of butter and melt. Stir in the apples, brown sugar and cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally until the apples become slightly tender and release their juices into a syrup-like consistency, about 8 minutes. Remove from the heat.
In a large bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of brown sugar and melted butter. Add the vegetable oil, milk, vanilla and eggs, and whisk until the batter is smooth.
Next, whisk in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and allspice until mostly combined. Next, spoon all but 1/2 cup of the cooked apples into the large bowl of batter. Using a rubber spatula, fold the apples into the batter until combined.
Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Distribute the reserved 1/2 cup of apples and juices over the top of the cake batter, followed by the 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, make the glaze by whisking the powdered sugar, milk and vanilla together in a small bowl. After removing the cake from the oven, let the cake cool for 15 minutes.
Drizzle the cake with the glaze and enjoy! It’s super delicious when served warm. Cover leftovers and store at room temperature for 4-5 days.
