Celebrating the 5 Towns of Western Wake
DINNER PINES
in the
FigMINT Farms serves elegance under the stars
JOHN C. CAMPBELL FOLK SCHOOL ROGERS FAMILY HOLIDAY LIGHTS
WINTER PET WELLNESS + 2025 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
EDITOR’S LETTER
Every year, as the holidays approach, a part of my heart travels back to Iowa. The season has a way of shrinking distances, and I can almost feel the crisp cold and picture the sprawling fields blanketed in snow. No matter how much we love the Triangle—and I love it a lot—or how long we’ve lived here (eight years for me), being far from family during this time of year is a bittersweet ache familiar to many of us who have made Wake County our home. You learn to hold the nostalgia in one hand and the life you’ve built here in the other. It’s a balancing act of honoring where you came from while celebrating where you are.
Over the years, I’ve discovered that the remedy for that distance isn’t trying to replicate the past, but embracing the present and nurturing the “found family” that surrounds us. For me, that’s the small but mighty team I have the honor of working with to create this magazine. We are a tiny crew, and our adventures in content creation have forged a bond that feels very much like family. This was never more apparent than on a recent evening in Apex, when we gathered for the incredible meal that would become our cover story.
In "Celebrate by Starlight," you’ll see more than just a beautifully curated dinner in the woods; you’ll see the magic of connection. Sharing that meal under the stars, surrounded by laughter and conversation, was a powerful reminder that home is a feeling you create with the people you’re with. It’s a feeling of warmth, belonging, and shared experience—the very essence of the holidays.
That spirit of finding connection in new places is echoed in our travel feature on the John C. Campbell Folk School, a unique getaway where strangers become friends while learning a new craft. And since our nonhuman companions are a huge part of our found family, we explore how to keep them happy and engaged during the colder months in our story on winter pet wellness—perfect timing for me since we just added a second puppy to our household! For those cozy nights in, we’re sharing a delicious recipe for decadent chocolate raspberry cups—a perfect treat to share with the family you’ve chosen. And for those looking to send a piece of their heart to family near and far, our annual Holiday Gift Guide, found as an inset, is filled with thoughtful ideas.
This season, whether you are traveling to be with relatives or gathering with friends who feel like family, I hope you find moments of true connection. May you create new traditions, cherish the old ones, and feel the warmth of home, wherever you may be.
Happy Holidays,
Kyle Marie McMahon Editor-in-Chief
With husband, James, at FigMINT Farms for our Dinner in the Pines photo shoot.
Just a fraction of the 5 West team (and some significant others) enjoying our special celebration at FigMINT Farms.
SIP& SAVOR
FOUNDER AND OWNER
Ronny Stephens
PUBLISHER
Joe Sanger
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kyle Marie McMahon
ART DIRECTOR
Sean Byrne
CONTENT EDITOR & SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Dathan Kazsuk
COPY EDITOR
Cindy Huntley
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Delaney Garver
CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER
Erica Christy
DIRECTOR OF SALES
Collin Pruitt
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Jessica Douglas Mackenzie Steiner
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Jessica Bratton
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Kate Loeffel, Anna Sanger
DISTRIBUTION
Joe Lizana, Manager DistribuTech.net
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Grace Barker, Samantha Carson, Kurt Dusterberg, Katie Eaker, Rachel Danielle Harrell, Page Leggett, Jennnifer Primrose, Katelynn Rutt, Dolly Sickles
5
5
5 West magazine will not knowingly accept any real estate advertising in violation of U.S. equal opportunity law.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
6 print issues (1 year) Available online at 5westmag.com 4818-204 Six Forks Road
DEPARTMENTS
Photo by Jessica Bratton.
CELEBRATE B Y STA R LIGHT
AT FIGMINT FARMS, BRIGHT FLAVORS PAIR WITH AN ELEGANT PINE‑FOREST SETTING
Hidden just past I-540 on Highway 64, FigMINT Farms feels like a world apart, where twinkling lights, a long communal table, and the aroma of fresh herbs create a welcoming atmosphere. Here, communities gather for Dinner in the Pines, an immersive feast that brings Sassool’s beloved Mediterranean flavors into the woods Simone and Noelle Saleh, daughters of Mounir Saleh (owner of Sassool), now manage the restaurants and carry the family’s approach to hospitality, customer service, and culinary expertise into FigMINT Farms. They design and run events like Dinner in the Pines, seamlessly blending Sassool’s warmth with the farm’s unique setting.
STORY BY JENNIFER PRIMROSE | PHOTOS BY JESSICA BRATTON
I n 2018, Mounir purchased the property that would become FigMINT Farms. Initially, it was an investment, with no concrete plan for its future. “He didn’t really know what the future of this land was, but he knew that the area was growing,” Simone recalls. Inspired by his mother’s love of mint in everyday Lebanese cooking, Mounir built a mint garden to support the restaurant. “It’s super prevalent in everyday Lebanese cooking. His mom, Sassool, used it so much in her daily sandwiches for the boys. So he said, ‘I know mint. We grew it my whole life. I can manage mint,’” Simone says. The garden has since doubled in size, and last year’s harvest totaled over 1,800 pounds of mint—enough to supply Sassool’s locations and share with employees.
D uring the pandemic, the Saleh family enhanced the pavilion setting with additions such as lighting and a firepit, gradually transforming the property from a private gathering space to a more public venue. Paths, weatherproofing, and florals completed the venue’s evolution, making it an inviting place for celebrations.
Mounir suggested that once the pandemic eased, the property could be shared with the community. By 2022 the family had a plan for hosting events, paving the way for public rentals. While Dinner in the Pines has become FigMINT Farms’ signature event, the property is versatile. “We’ve hosted birthdays, reunions, yoga groups, and even corporate retreats. Whether you’re walking through the garden, the pine groves, or the pond path, every spot is photo-worthy,” Noelle says. Each experience benefits from the same thoughtful touches that began as private family celebrations. It’s in this context that Dinner in the Pines was born, transforming the forested grounds into an immersive, candlelit dining experience unlike any other.
PAGES 8–9: Friends and family gather at the table in the pines, awaiting the delicious menu provided by Sassool.
THIS PAGE, TOP TO BOTTOM: The pavilion is decorated just as impeccably as the tablescape. With soft lighting, comfortable seating, yard games, and drinks, guests keep plenty busy as they await the dinner portion of the evening. Small bites were also prepared for the cocktail hour before dinner, with items such as meatballs and tabouli available in the pavilion.
OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The dinner provided is courtesy of Sassool, which includes their delicious spanakopita. Owners Noelle, Mounir, and Simone Saleh are often present to keep things running smoothly. The table at this dinner was decorated with pomegranates, apples, and candles to celebrate the festive time of year.
A WARM WELCOME IN THE PINES
Guests arrive under the rustic charm of the pavilion, greeted with drinks and a carefully prepared assortment of small bites. “We want people to relax as soon as they arrive,” Noelle explains. Every detail— from the table arrangements to the presentation of fresh ingredients—reflects the hospitality the Saleh sisters learned while working alongside their father at Sassool. This prelude sets the tone for the evening, allowing guests to take in the farm’s beauty before proceeding down the forested path that leads to Dinner in the Pines.
A s you leave the pavilion and follow the path into the trees, the world shifts. The faint rumble of traffic nearby fades away, replaced by the quiet footsteps on gravel, murmurs of conversation, and the glow of lights strung high above. Ahead, a long table awaits, glowing with candles, scattered with pomegranates and apples, and dressed for a spectacular feast. “This was always the vision. Guests would come out here during the day and think backyard barbecue. But I knew it could be more—something elevated, something magical,” Simone says. Sitting at that long table, with
strangers on either side quickly becoming friends, feels like stepping into another world. Every seat encourages conversation, every detail invites lingering, and every guest becomes part of the story. Dinner unfolds family-style, with each dish a nod to the flavors that have defined Sassool for over a decade: grilled Mediterranean chicken, spanakopita, curry rice, autumn root salad, sweet potato salad, jalapeño cilantro hummus, and warm pita bread. “The farm started as a way to grow ingredients for Sassool. It’s incredible to see it come full circle—the place where the ingredients start has now become the setting where guests enjoy them,” Simone says. Guests pass dishes around, sharing bites and conversation, creating a rhythm of communal enjoyment. “By the end of the night, you feel like you’ve known the people next to you forever,” Simone says. “It’s about food, yes—but even more, it’s about connection,” Noelle adds.
MORE THAN JUST DINNER
A s the final bites are savored, guests release lanterns onto the pond, glowing softly against the water’s reflection—an opportunity to make a wish, hoping it comes to fruition. Later, everyone gathers around the
firepit, roasting marshmallows into s’mores. “It’s about creating memories. One of my favorite moments was a surprise birthday dinner. The guest of honor walked into the woods and saw the table for the first time— and the look on their face said it all,” Simone shares.
E very detail—from the mint garden to menu planning—reflects the sisters’ dedication to creating meaningful experiences and carrying forward the family’s culinary and hospitality legacy. Mounir Saleh’s influence is evident throughout: By teaching his daughters what he knows about the restaurant industry and customer service, he has guided generations in creating Sassool’s culinary and hospitality magic.
Dinner in the Pines continues to sell out, and the Saleh sisters are planning new ways to share the magic.
A Date Night in the Pines package is set to debut, featuring a private table for two, Champagne, chocolates, and an optional photographer for milestone moments. “The property is so peaceful and romantic. We want it to be second nature for people to celebrate their special occasions here,” Simone says. “Dinner in the Pines is our way of saying thank you—to our community, to our family, and to everyone who shares in this experience with us,” Noelle adds.
I nterested in experiencing Dinner in the Pines or reserving FigMINT Farms for another event? Reservations are required, and spots often sell out quickly. Guests can visit the farm’s website to learn about upcoming dates, availability, and special packages. FigMINT Farms is located at 1501 Two Pond Lane in Apex.
A t its heart, Dinner in the Pines embodies FigMINT Farms: community, creativity, and connection. Sassool’s history—from the restaurant to the farm—threads through every element, making the experience uniquely theirs. Every candlelit table, every passed dish, and every floating lantern reflects the care, creativity, and passion of the Saleh sisters. With Sassool’s magic woven throughout, FigMINT Farms is a destination where flavors, stories, and people intersect, leaving guests with an evening—and a memory—they won’t soon forget
OPPOSITE PAGE: The menu included grilled Mediterranean chicken and curry rice with crispy onions
THIS PAGE, TOP TO BOTTOM: From the pavilion, guests walk down a pathway through the pines to a magical table lit with glowing lights and decorated to perfection. The dinner can be served in courses, spread out in increments, or requested as family-style for a more intimate sharing experience. The sweet potato salad was a big hit.
100 YEARS of
HANDS-ON LEARNING
From cooking to clay, the John C. Campbell Folk School teaches many of the same skills first taught in 1925
STORY BY PAGE LEGGETT
Going to the John C. Campbell Folk School (JCCFS) is like going to a grown-up sleepaway camp. That is, if you were the kind of kid more likely to sign up for arts and crafts than archery.
A nd I was.
W hile visiting friends in Murphy—North Carolina’s westernmost town—I went to the Folk School’s wondrous craft shop. I was enchanted by the idyllic campus in tiny Brasstown (population 777) and knew I had to return as a student.
For the past 100 years, JCCFS has welcomed adults who come, for a week or a weekend, to unplug and learn a new craft or hone their skill at one they already practice. Classes cover everything from blacksmithing to broom-making and painting to puppetry.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOHN C. CAMPBELL FOLK SCHOOL
Folk schools, which originated in 1830s Denmark, are rooted in the belief that “the classical education of the time, with an emphasis on Greek and Latin studies, created a rift between life and learning,” according to Vicky Eiben, Ed.D., writing for the Folk Education Association of America.
T hese egalitarian schools emphasize hands-on learning in a noncompetitive environment—meaning no grades are given—for traditional crafts. They connect students to their own talents and abilities, and to their broader community.
A CENTURY OF SKILL BUILDING
John C. Campbell wasn’t a North Carolinian. Or even a Southerner.
He was born in Indiana, raised in Wisconsin, and studied education and theology in New England. In the early 1900s, Southern Appalachia was considered ripe for mission work for a young idealist like Campbell.
S o he and his new wife, Olive Dame Campbell, set out in a covered wagon to study mountain life from Georgia to West Virginia. John died before the couple’s shared vision of a folk school could be realized. But Olive made it happen—with help from Brasstown’s sole shopkeeper, Fred O. Scroggs, who galvanized support (locals pledged labor and building materials) and whose family donated their land to the cause.
T he school officially opened in 1925. And in some ways, little has changed since then. The mission is the same, and many of the same skills are still taught. While new genres have been added over the years, the school is never going to be cutting-edge. A wide range of photography classes are offered, including drone photography, but executive director Bethany Chaney says, “We’re holding the line at digital art.”
Chaney, a Chapel Hill native, joined the staff in 2022 as deputy director after spending her career in nonprofit management in the Triangle. She was a JCCFS student before she became an administrator. After just one weekend class in pine needle basketry, Chaney was smitten. “Each time I came, the draw of that red door at Keith House was just so strong,” she says. (Keith House is the hub and heart of the campus.) “I loved every minute of my time here as a student. I was finding more and more of my own creative spirit.”
W hen there was a vacancy at the top, Chaney was officially named interim executive director. In September 2023, she became executive director. She’s leading JCCFS at a pivotal time—its centennial. The yearlong celebration kicked off in October and will include special programming on campus through next fall.
A capital campaign is part of the centennial, and there’s no shortage of ideas on how to use the funds Chaney hopes to raise—a new welcome center, a bigger dining hall, and a coffee shop have all been discussed. The school needs more lodging, too.
E VER-CHANGING, YET TIMELESS
C ovid changed a lot—even at a place where time seems to stand still.
“Fewer people are willing to share a room with someone they don’t know,” Chaney says. “We get more requests for single-occupancy housing now.” The many Airbnb and VRBO rentals in the area are another option.
A s for classes, people are getting back to the basics, Chaney says. Old-school crafts including basketry, broom making, spinning, knitting, crochet, and bobbin lace (a.k.a. lace made by hand) have soared in popularity.
I nterest in woodworking has exploded, too. JCCFS is well-prepared. The school has three studios dedicated to it: woodworking, wood turning, and wood carving. And more women are taking classes that had previously been dominated by men, like wood carving and blacksmithing.
T he folk school instructors—all experts in their fields—come from all over, and they come for a week or a weekend, just as students do. As many longtime instructors retire, Chaney’s team is making an effort to add more diversity across the age, race, and geography among teachers, with a goal of increasing diversity among students as well. “We’re forging relationships with organizations, individuals, and colleges and universities that have diverse populations,” she says. “And it’s paid off in terms of reaching a maker population that … hasn’t necessarily seen themselves reflected before.”
PAGES 14–15, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A selection of classes offered at JCCFS, including guitar making, chair-seat weaving, fiber arts, yarn spinning, woodworking, and pottery.
OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP TO BOTTOM: In addition to classic handcrafts, JCCFS has unique offerings, such as a class where students create giant puppets from cardboard and papier-mâché. Creating yarn from raw fiber is a fun option the school offers. The school's knitting classes offer many choices, including one where students make gloves.
ABOVE: Printmaking, which involves creating patterns on a variety of fabrics, is a popular class.
E AT UP
It’s hard to talk about the Appalachian culture without talking about the region’s foodways. And food is a big part of the JCCFS experience.
Meal plans are available. You can eat all three meals a day, or just lunch in the dining hall. There’s a breakfast buffet, and lunch and supper are served family-style. The food isn’t just better than you might expect; it’s downright delicious. And the kitchen is accustomed to accommodating vegans, vegetarians, and those on gluten-free diets.
Menus change seasonally and make use, whenever possible, of vegetables from the on-site garden. People “rave about the meals, thanks to the vision of executive chef Terra Ciotta,” Chaney says. “Homemade desserts constantly rank at the top of the favorite lists.”
T he culinary arts are well-represented. Upcoming cooking classes include everything from Italian liqueurs and gelatos to homemade goat cheese; from artisan ales to gluten-free baking; and from fruit-based desserts to food truck favorites.
T he hardest part of studying the voluminous class listing is deciding what to take.
J OY AND WONDER
I did return to JCCFS as a student.
I spent a magical week in 2013 with other would-be memoirists under the tutelage of the late Dr. Vickie Hunt,
an English professor from Florida who told us at our first meeting that we were going to “have to walk right up to the wreck and examine it.”
S oon enough, I understood what she meant.
On the first full day of class, one student wept while sharing her prose. Hunt congratulated her for being the first and assured us that we all would cry by the end of the week. “And if you don’t,” she said, “you’re skirting something. Because if you’re going to really examine your life, you’re going to shed a few tears.” She was right. Over the course of that week, we all did.
We were surely the only people shedding tears at the school. Memoir class aside, John C. Campbell is a place of great joy, of self-discovery, of wonder. Learning to make soap (or samosas or scrimshaws) mattered in 1925. And it may matter even more today. There are many places you can learn to code, but very few where you can learn to spin yarn, make felt, or forge a steel skillet.
W hat a pleasure it is to leave technology behind, commune with nature (and other people), and get in touch with your creative side. Camp shouldn’t be just for kids.
G et schooled. The John C. Campbell Folk School is located at One Folk School Road in Brasstown, North Carolina, about a six-hour drive from Raleigh via I-40. Learn more at folkschool.org.
JCCFS offers music classes in many bluegrass instruments, such as the banjo, from beginner to jam sessions. You can also take a class to make your own banjo.
GUIDING LIGHTS
Apex family’s holiday display draws visitors to unique tribute
STORY BY KURT DUSTERBERG
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ROGERS FAMILY
Eric a nd Mandy Rogers started out like lots of other couples with holiday spirit. “We both grew up loving Christmas,” Mandy says. “The first year we moved here, we made our upstairs loft into a Christmas village.” Before long, the Rogers took it outdoors.
“ We started the first year with a handful of lights on the house and in the bushes,” Eric says. “And then it grew until, I guess, 2015, when we first started the animated lights. Then in 2016 is when it got crazy.”
I n the years since, their house at 700 Bay Bouquet Lane in Apex has become a well-known Christmas house—a must-see holiday location that grows in reputation with each passing year.
T he process begins just after Halloween. Eric begins hauling boxes out of the attic, using his evenings to test the lights and switches. Over the weekends, he begins setting up the display outdoors.
B y opening night on Thanksgiving, carloads of visitors have plenty to take in when they pull up to the house. The Rogers’ home is framed in 20,000 lights, with illuminated trees, snowflakes, and surprises bringing holiday images to life. It’s a little overwhelming, but Eric suggests paying close attention to the side of the home, where an 8-by-8foot gingerbread house mirrors the design of the Rogers residence. “I think it’s my favorite piece,” he says. “There’s only a handful of people I ever see actually looking at it, because it’s not as big and exciting as the front of the house. It does a lot of fun things people don’t appreciate.”
But that’s just the visuals. The LED lights are synched to music that can be accessed from the website rogersfamilylights.com. In addition to holiday favorites, guests can choose from Bon Jovi hits, a Taylor Swift mashup, or show tunes by tuning their radios to 93.5 FM.
A mong the more popular items is the “mega tree,” which produces different faces and images depending on the songs people choose. “It sits at the corner of the house, and that’s where you can see the faces and things that get displayed on it,” Mandy says. “The mega tree changes with every song.”
T he light display isn’t just for the benefit of Eric and Mandy. Their children, 12-year-old Cooper and 7-year-old Parker, get in on the festivities, too.
“Cooper enjoys it. He helps a lot,” Eric says. “He’s probably cut the time down in half. So that’s been nice.”
Mandy adds: “Parker, he loves going out and listening to it and dancing to it.”
W hile children have always been the inspiration behind the Rogers’ holiday lights, the display was born out of grief. Eric and Mandy lost their infant son, Caden, to spinal muscular atrophy, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the motor nerve cells in the spinal cord. “I guess it was the
OPPOSITE PAGE: The Rogers’ house decked out for the holidays in a Wicked theme.
ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: The Rogers family (Mandy, Eric, Cooper, and Parker). Donations can be made to honor their son Caden, who the family lost to spinal muscular atrophy. With the amount of decorating that needs to be done, the work is a family affair.
impetus for why 2016 went crazy,” says Eric. “It was how I kept myself busy. Not thinking about all the sadness, if you will.”
E ver since, the display has done more than just provide holiday cheer for others. Guests can make donations to curesma.com at the Rogers Family Christmas Lights Facebook page (facebook.com/ rogersfamilylights) or by scanning the QR code posted near the street. “[The donations] help families who have been recently diagnosed with medical bills and equipment that they may need,” Mandy says. “So that’s what we do it for.”
T he Rogers’ house is on a corner lot, which can sometimes tangle the traffic—particularly on weekends and the days closer to Christmas, when 50 to 100 cars turn onto the street each night. While there is nowhere to park, visitors can stand along the sidewalk to take a good long look or shoot a video. But the family reminds visitors that the display is not meant to be walked through.
T he light display runs through New Year’s Day, weekdays from 5:30–9:30 p.m. and weekends from
5:30–10:30 p.m. So drive by and choose your jam, no matter your musical taste.
“ We have this nursing home van from Waltonwood that comes around multiple times a week,” Mandy says. “[A staff member] always messages me because we play a lot of newer songs, and she always asks, ‘Can we have the old traditional Christmas songs?’”
A nd while you’re basking in the joy of the season, the Rogers family invites you to take just a moment to notice their tribute to Caden.
“ There’s always a little blue angel in the yard somewhere. He’s about a foot tall, and every year he moves,” Eric says. “So it’s something for people to look for. I like to find a different place [each year] for him to look at the lights.”
BELOW & OPPOSITE PAGE: The display has both modern and classic touches, which ties well to the music visitors are able choose as they drive through. Can you find the little blue angel this year?
A GUIDE TO WINTER PET WELLNESS
STORY BY DOLLY R. SICKLES | PHOTOS BY PEYTON SICKLES
For s ome folks, winter is a cozy season. Colder temperatures encourage layered clothing and snuggly evenings by the fireplace. Sound carries farther, the dew point’s lower, and the stars are brighter. But others struggle through the longer nights, the biting winds, and the wet, muted landscape. Just like us, pets can also experience the side effects of seasonal changes. There’s no need to despair, however, because with a little planning, easy tweaks in your routine, and some fun ingenuity, you can alleviate your furry friend’s seasonal sadness.
M ichael O’Donnell, a Raleigh native and co-owner of All-Star Dog Training with his wife, Melissa, recommends a holistic approach to canine wellness. “People tend to be a little depressed when they can’t get outside, or it’s too cold and cloudy,” he says. “I think they only understand how to work their dog physically, and their dogs suffer because of it.”
FOCUS ON ENGAGEMENT, MENTAL ACTIVITY, AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Most people know how to get physical activity. Take your dog on a walk, play fetch, throw a frisbee. Those are the easy ones, especially when the weather is nice outside. But in unpleasant conditions or when it’s dark at the end of a workday, it’s difficult to get out for a walk. “If you can add mental exercises for days when you can’t get out for a long walk, you’ll provide so much enrichment for your dogs,” says O’Donnell. “I’m big on teaching people how to mentally work their dog.”
LEFT: Fans and players love 2-year-old Champ, an American Labrador, as much as he loves them. Like his late older brother, Ripken, Champ thrives in the spotlight in his jobs as official bat dog for the Durham Bulls and kicking tee retriever for North Carolina State University. His training makes it possible to be a working dog under exciting, noisy conditions.
Dr. Matthew Merriman has been with Town and Country Veterinary Hospital in Apex since 2006. His gentle way with patients, like 12-year-old schnauzer Sophie, is just one of the reasons the practice is a community favorite.
O’Donnell speaks from experience. His dog, Ripkin, was the official bat dog of the Durham Bulls and the official kicking tee retriever for North Carolina State University’s football team. After Ripkin’s passing in January, his brother Champ took over the role. At two, Champ is thriving in the spotlight in front of thousands of fans in the stadiums. It’s incumbent upon O’Donnell to make sure Champ is engaged when he’s working, and that means really focusing on his mental activity.
O wners are crucial to the training process. “The first lesson I teach is engagement,” he says. “If you can’t get that right, I don’t move on, because you can’t train without the dog looking at you.”
Once you master engagement, O’Donnell recommends giving your dog a job. “Do your homework with your dog. Have fun,” he says. “They need to be worked with and played with. They need the engagement, the mental activity, the physical activity.” For example, have them work on skills like sitting while you make dinner. Start with short spans of time, and work your way up to 15 or 20 minutes before you release
them. Challenge your dog to ignore your kids’ toys on the ground. Or, as Michael likes to do, dump out all the dog toys on the floor and train your dogs to put them back into a basket. Above all, work their minds and keep them busy.
STAY ACTIVE
Dr. Matthew Merriman joined Town and Country Veterinary Hospital in 2006 when he moved to Wake County with his wife, Dr. Julie Merriman. They have two children, one dog, and one cat. He’s a friendly practitioner with an approachable personality, and can calm both his four-legged patients and their two-legged people. His practical approach to the care and feeding of pets is what makes him so relatable.
“ The biggest thing I tell people in the winter is keep walking your dog,” says Dr. Merriman. “Stay active. In the winter, if you can, you want to walk when the sun’s up. With your senior pets, that’s the best thing you can do with their health.” And as long as you and your pooch are fine getting wet, he thinks a 30-minute walk in the
rain is just fine, even in colder temperatures. Here in North Carolina we may not see weather extremes cold enough to cause hypothermia, but it’s good to know what the signs are: “Look for extremities—primarily toes—to be icy to the touch and potentially blue.”
Melting ice and snow and heavy rainfall can make for mucky trails and grassy areas, so keep your pets comfortable by walking them in drier areas of roads and trails. We salt the roads here, and while Dr. Merriman doesn’t see many problems with deicers, it’s a good idea to wash your dog’s feet after a walk if they have any cuts or abrasions where the chemical could get in and make them uncomfortable.
I f you’re walking after dark or before sunrise, stay visible with reflective leashes and harnesses, or lights that strobe. Or consider a head lamp. “They’re great— they’re cheap, and help you do stuff like pick up the poop,” says Dr. Merriman.
U ltimately, keeping your pet happy and healthy this winter is about finding a thoughtful balance. It’s about turning a dreary, wet afternoon into an opportunity for mental enrichment and embracing a crisp, sunny walk as a cherished routine. These moments of focused engagement—whether teaching them to put away their toys or simply enjoying the brighter stars on a cold, clear night—do more than just prevent boredom. They strengthen the bond you share, transforming the season of long nights into a time of connection and ensuring you both emerge from the colder months feeling refreshed and ready for spring.”
LEFT: Town and Country Veterinary Hospital provides a wide range of services, from preventative care to emergency care and surgery. ABOVE: Well-behaved dogs are always the goal for O’Donnell and his team of trainers at All-Star Dog Training, but for a working dog in the public eye, like Champ, good communication and engagement are the keys to success.
NEED HOLIDAY GIFTS?
TRY THESE 5 LOCAL TREATS
STORY BY SAMANTHA CARSON PHOTOS COURTESY OF INDIVIDUAL VENDORS
The holiday season is coming up fast. Are you ready? If you’re still looking for the perfect gift, many local bakeries and shops offer delectable treats that can be wrapped and saved for just the right moment. Even better, these goodies are available all year long, so you don’t need to worry about stocking up (though they also make great stocking stuffers!). Here are five local and giftable goodies your family and friends are sure to love—plus a bonus treat for your furry family members!
ITALIAN COOKIES BY UTICA BAKERY
Named for Utica, New York, but located in Apex, Utica Bakery specializes in handcrafted Italian and European pastries and baked goods. Owner Vincent DeSimone has an extensive menu of dishes both savory and sweet, so even the pickiest of eaters is sure to find something to enjoy. For a popular treat that won’t disappoint, Utica offers a 1-pound box of assorted Italian cookies that will keep your sweet tooth satisfied with a variety of flavors such as lemon-anise, cuccidati, and chocolate meatball. Boxes can sell out quickly, so be sure to preorder via Facebook Messenger or get to the bakery early.
430 Upchurch Street, Apex uticabakery.com
CHOCOLATES
BY
FERA’WYN’S ARTISAN CHOCOLATES
Founded in 2012 by husband-and-wife team David and Joana Whittingham, Fera’wyn’s is a delightful chocolatier in Holly Springs named for the character played by Joana in the online video game through which the pair met. With a dedicated gluten-free kitchen and several goods that can also be made dairy-free, their truffles
652 Holly Springs Road, Holly Springs | ferawyns.com
and confections have delighted the Triangle’s growing community of customers with dietary restrictions. Chocolates come in 4-piece, 5-piece, 6-piece, 12-piece, or 24-piece boxes, and can be ordered either in store or online for store pickup or shipping.
MACARONS BY PASTRIES BY J
O wned by home baker Jungeun Cottrell, Pastries by J is located in Apex and specializes in macarons and custom cakes. There are a wide variety of flavors available for fans of the macaron: Choose from classic flavors such as salted caramel, chocolate ganache, and coffee; fun flavors such as black sesame, chai latte, and injeolmi (roasted bean powder); and premium flavors such as s’mores, Earl Grey, and key lime pie. Gift boxes are available for purchase, with one flavor per dozen and a minimum purchase of two dozen boxes required.
pastriesbyj.com
CANDIES BY SUGAR SNAP TREATS
O wned by Kristin Wardwell and Whitney Bascom, Sugar Snap Treats in Holly Springs takes traditional candies and adds a crunchy, freezedried twist. From sour saltwater taffy and gummy worms to their signature BBQ Rainbow Bites and Firecrackers, they’ve got a treat for just about everyone, regardless of taste. You may even come across them as a topping at local ice cream shops, such as Fat Cat Homemade Ice Cream in FuquayVarina. Bags of candies can be picked up in store or at the Holly Springs Farmers Market, or ordered online for pickup, local delivery, or shipping.
5301 Yorkville Court, Holly Springs sugarsnaptreats.com
BAKLAVA BOXES BY ASALI DESSERTS & CAFE
This Cary-based Mediterranean café was started in 2001 by another husband-and-wife team, Hanadi Asad and Jamaal Ali. In fact, the name of the shop is a combination of the couple’s last names. Asali specializes in Mediterranean treats, including desserts, cakes, small plates, beverages, and more— even offering reservations for high tea. Some of their most giftable options include baklava variety boxes, which come in both small and large sizes. Orders can be placed either in person or over the phone.
107 Edinburgh S. Drive, Suite 106-A, Cary asalidessertscafe.com
BONUS: BOW WOW PEANUT BUTTER AND YOGURT
CUPS BY PAWSITIVELY
DELICIOUS TREATS
Located in Fuquay-Varina, Pawsitively Delicious Treats uses no additives or preservatives in their fresh, homemade treats. Owner and baker Joyce Delgado-Mistler offers a wide variety of treats for dogs and cats alike, but the Bow Wow Peanut Butter and Yogurt Cups, covered with carob (a dogsafe alternative to chocolate), are a particularly mouthwatering option for dogs. Treats can be purchased in store or online in packs of 8 and 24 or as a subscription. Pawsitively’s blog also highlights adoptable dogs from local rescues to give them a better chance at finding their forever homes.
103 Raleigh Street, Fuquay-Varina | pawsitivelydelicioustreats.com
Navigating Family Transitions with Compassion
By Gantt Family Law
Your Fortress of Support Life is unpredictable, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our experienced team stands ready to guide you through sensitive matters with confidence and care.
Connect with Us
Take the first step toward a brighter future. Contact us today for a free consultation!
With Three Board-Certified Family Law Specialists, we offer:
• Tailored Strategies: Personalized plans to meet your unique needs.
• Advocacy with Heart: We fight for your best interests with compassion.
• Reliable Guidance: Providing clarity during difficult times, helping you find stability and peace.
2025 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
It’s time to make your list and check it twice!
Our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide connects you to local shops and boutiques offering unique options that will inspire you to share a taste of the Triangle with friends and family this holiday season.
Note: While all of these businesses are local, some items are available for online purchase only.
HOME
California Sunset Candle, 10 oz | $58
Johnny Was at Fenton in Cary fentonnc.com/directory/johnny-was
Merry Rose Flower Arrangement, Ideal for Holiday Gifting or Dinner Tables | $100 Just Bloom It Flower Bar justbloomitllc@gmail.com
Bouquet of the Month
Single in a Wrap, $60 | Double in a Wrap, $110 Vase and Design, Monthly Subscriptions, and Delivery Available The English Garden | englishgardenraleigh.com
Travel Blanket in Galliani Print | $148
Johnny Was at Fenton in Cary fentonnc.com/directory/johnny-was
Emanuel Berg Premium Luxury Hybrid
Brown Suede Cardigan Sweater | $1,498
Alexander Eton in Cary | alexandereton.com
Bugatchi Extra Fine Merino Wool
Geometric 3-Button Polo | $298
Alexander Eton in Cary | alexandereton.com
Anderson’s Navy/Brown Classic Woven Stretch Belt | $195
Alexander Eton in Cary | alexandereton.com
Belstaff True Olive Organic Cotton
Commander Quarter Zip Jumper | $300
Alexander Eton in Cary | alexandereton.com
The Raglan PJ Set in Caetana Allover Print | $198
Johnny Was at Fenton in Cary fentonnc.com/directory/johnny-was
“Style in a Rush” Styling Session | $70 to $85
Sofia Lujan Styling | sofialujanstyling.com
Velvet
Dress | $169
Betty & Jane Boutique | shopbettyandjane.com
German Fuentes Kelly Green
Leather Bamboo Handbag | $199
Betty & Jane Boutique | shopbettyandjane.com
Elinor
Burnout
Ondelle, 18kt Yellow Gold Diamond Earrings with Carved White Mother-of-Pearl | $8,446
Johnson’s Jewelers of Raleigh johnsonsjewelers.com
14kt Yellow Gold Diamond Drop Station Necklace | $3,100
Johnson’s Jewelers of Raleigh johnsonsjewelers.com
Lab-Grown Diamond Stud Earrings in 14kt Gold | Starting at $299
Charles & Colvard | charlesandcolvard.com
Ravenna Bangle | $5,580
Johnson’s Jewelers of Raleigh johnsonsjewelers.com
Bailey’s 14kt Yellow Gold Goldmark Collection Interlocking Circle Necklace with 23 Diamonds, Adjustable 16”–18”| $595 Bailey’s Fine Jewelry | baileybox.com 14kt Yellow Gold and Diamond Bangle Bracelet, 6.75”, 8 CTW | $19,995 Bailey’s Fine Jewelry | baileybox.com
Brewjeria or Black Cauldron Coffee, 16 oz | $20 Chapel of Bones | chapelofbones.com
Artie Bars Millionaire Shortbread Cookie Bars, Box of 4 | $29.99 Artie Bars | artiebars.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF JULI LEONARD
West Paw Zogoflex Zisc All-Weather Flying Disc | $20.99 Unleashed | unleashedmutt.com
West Paw Zogoflex Toppl
Treat-Dispensing Puzzle Toy | $20.99 Unleashed | unleashedmutt.com
Planet Dog Orbee Snoop Interactive Dog Puzzle Toy | $12.99 Unleashed | unleashedmutt.com
Dezi & Roo Hide and Sneak Tunnel | $13.99 Unleashed | unleashedmutt.com
Ark Naturals Ears All Right, Neem “Protect” Shampoo, or Neem “Protect” Spray | $11.99 each Unleashed | unleashedmutt.com
| $12.99 Unleashed | unleashedmutt.com
Polkadog Alaskan Salmon Chips, 4oz | $12.99 Polkadog Alaskan Cod Chips, 3.5oz
The Last Tiger by Julia Riew & Brad Riew $21.99 Quail Ridge Books quailridgebooks.com Hello, I’m a Sloth (Meet the Wild Things, Book 1) by Hayley & John Rocco | $16.99 Quail Ridge Books | quailridgebooks.com The Nutcracker presented by City Ballet December 5–6, 2025 | Seats start at $25 City Ballet Raleigh | city-ballet.com The BIG Crayon Box by Drew Daywalt, Illustrated by Oliver Jeffers Set of 3 Books | $57.97 Quail Ridge Books | quailridgebooks.com The Secret Astronomers by Jessica Walker $19.99 Quail Ridge Books quailridgebooks.com
WELLNESS. CONFIDENCE. LONGEVITY.
This season, rediscover your energy, your confidence, your glow. From energy and hormone balance to skin rejuvenation and body confidence, our whole‑body approach helps you feel renewed inside and out— through the holidays and into the year ahead.
WELLNESS AND AESTHETIC SERVICES
Hormone Therapy
Vitamin Injections
Peptide Therapy
Customized Weight Loss Plans Including GLP
Extensive Blood Panel
Body Composition Testing
4Ever Health Profile
Complete Physical and Health Evaluation
Physician Grade Suppements
Fillers & Botox
Skinpen Precision Microneedling
Hydrafacial
PRP Facials with Microneedling
Physician Grade Skincare Products
DR. SHRUTI TANNAN
TANNAN PLASTIC SURGERY
2709 Blue Ridge Road #150, Raleigh
WHAT ASPECT OF YOUR WORK ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
I’m most proud of the profound trust women place in me. Surgery, at its essence, is about reclamation—helping women feel whole, radiant, and at ease in their own skin. What moves me most is when a patient says she feels like herself again. That kind of transformation extends far beyond the physical—it’s emotional, empowering, and deeply human.
WHERE DO YOU FIND ENERGY AND INSPIRATION FOR WHAT YOU DO?
My energy comes from the women I serve—bold, brilliant, and beautifully real. Their stories of reinvention fuel my creativity and drive my pursuit of excellence. Building my practice allowed me to create a space that feels modern, welcoming, and personal. I’m inspired by the intersection of artistry and science, where technical mastery meets the emotional nuance of confidence.
WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU CAN REACH OUT TO AND SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO ARE JUST STARTING OUT IN YOUR INDUSTRY?
Mentorship is everything. I believe in creating space for other women in medicine by sharing experiences, opening doors, and encouraging authenticity. My goal is to show that leadership in medicine can be both feminine and strong—that you can build a career grounded in compassion, creativity, and excellence, without ever compromising who you are.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
The holiday season is here, and towns across the Triangle are sparkling! From spectacular light shows and festive parades to jubilant performances and charming markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With our ample selection of holiday offerings, your family is sure to make heartwarming memories.
Season-Long Sparkle
North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
8003 Regency Parkway, Cary boothamphitheatre.com
November 15, 2025–January 11, 2026
Koka Booth Amphitheatre transforms into a magical wonderland with dozens of larger-than-life, handcrafted LED lantern displays. Enjoy mesmerizing cultural performances held nightly.
The Rink at Red Hat Amphitheater
500 S. McDowell Street, Raleigh redhatamphitheater.com
November 22, 2025–January 2026
Enjoy outdoor ice skating in the heart of downtown Raleigh. The experience includes firepits, a snack bar, and a festive atmosphere.
Lights on the Neuse 1620 Loop Road, Clayton lightsontheneuse.com
Weekends and select days beginning November 28
Take a festive, tractor-pulled hayride through a spectacular display of holiday lights. The fun continues with s’mores and photos with Santa. Visit the website for specific dates, hours, and rates.
Festival of Lights at Hill Ridge Farms 703 Tarboro Road, Youngsville hillridgefarms.com
November 2–December 28
Immerse yourself in magical lights on a milelong trail from the comfort of your vehicle. Check the website for hours.
Holidays in the Park Museum of Life and Science, 433 W. Murray Avenue, Durham lifeandscience.org
Select nights in December
Stroll through some of the museum’s most popular outdoor spaces, including the Dinosaur Trail, all decked out in bright and festive lights. Take a ride on the Ellerbe Creek Railway for a magical view of the displays.
Tree Lightings & Parades
Lafayette Village Lighting of the Tree 8450 Honeycutt Road, Raleigh lafayettevillageraleigh.com
November 15; 3–6 p.m.
Enjoy horse and carriage rides, face painting, visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and a tree lighting at 6 p.m. in the magical courtyard.
81st Annual Raleigh Christmas Parade Downtown Raleigh grma.org/christmas-parade November 22; 9:30 a.m.
A beloved Raleigh tradition, this parade features marching bands, festive floats, performers, and more traveling down Hillsborough and Fayetteville streets.
The Chinese Lantern Festival held at Koka Booth Amphitheatre is a popular event that sells out every year, so get your tickets early. Photo courtesy of Koka Booth Amphitheatre.
Photo courtesy of The Rink
Skate the Square at Fenton
201 Fenton Gateway Drive, Cary fentonnc.com
November 7, 2025–February 8, 2026
Fenton kicks off the season with ice skating. The Light the Square event will take place November 22 from 3–7 p.m., featuring carriage rides. Santa will be there in his very own igloo for photos with the family.
North Hills Tree Lighting
4191 Main at North Hills Street, Raleigh visitnorthhills.com
November 22; 4–7 p.m.
Enjoy live music, kids’ crafts, food trucks, and a vendor village before Santa Claus arrives at 6 p.m. to light the 41-foot tree.
Happy Holly Days Parade
Downtown Holly Springs hollyspringsnc.us
December 13; 10 a.m.–noon
Floats, bands, horses, and marching groups travel Main Street in this festive morning parade.
Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade
Downtown Cary caryjaycees.org
December 13; 2–4 p.m.
The annual procession features marching bands, mascots, floats, and local businesses, creating a joyful atmosphere in the heart of Cary.
Festive Performances
Ira David Wood III’s A Christmas Carol Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh; Durham Performing Arts Center, Durham theatreinthepark.com
Martin Marietta Center: December 5–7 DPAC: December 10–14
A Raleigh holiday institution, this musical comedy adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic returns with Ira David Wood IV reprising his role as Scrooge.
Carolina Ballet Presents The Nutcracker 2 E. South Street, Raleigh carolinaballet.com
December 11–24
This cherished holiday ballet marries the charm of the original with fresh choreography, vibrant sets, and stunning costumes at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium.
The Raleigh Ringers’ Holiday Concert 2 E. South Street, Raleigh rr.org
December 14–15
Hear The Raleigh Ringers present their beautiful and intricate interpretations of sacred, secular, and popular music arranged for handbells.
New Year’s Eve
First Night Raleigh Downtown Raleigh firstnightraleigh.com
December 31; 2 p.m.–midnight Ring in 2026 with a full day of live entertainment, roving street performers, arts and crafts, the famous Acorn Drop at midnight, and a spectacular fireworks display.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, the Triangle offers a wonderful variety of events to make your holiday season bright.
Ira David Wood III’s rendition of A Christmas Carol is a timeless classic coming to both the Martin Marietta Center and DPAC. Photo courtesy of Theatre in the Park.
DEPARTMENT HOME & LIVING
DECK THE HALLS
Naturally
STORY BY KATELYNN RUTT
While the holidays in North Carolina may not arrive wrapped in a snowy blanket, the season brings something even more magical—Southern charm. Here, the landscape offers an abundance of vibrant flora that no artificial decor can rival, from glossy magnolia leaves to holly berries and wispy pine branches. Woven into the home, these natural elements are a sustainable way to display holiday spirit and pay homage to North Carolina’s innate beauty. Unsure where to begin? We chatted with local interior design and gardening experts to bring you the best tips for choosing, maintaining, and styling local greenery. Let these ideas spark creativity in your home to create your brightest hosting season yet.
Build Your Base
Start your hunt at Garden Supply Company, a beloved Cary mainstay since 1996. It’s not just a full-service garden— it’s a sustainable paradise, boasting a greenhouse plus a landscape and design hub. Enjoy the sensory delights of fresh Christmas trees, seasonal plants, handcrafted arrangements, and more. Outdoor gardener and plant buyer Mary Tuski and interior decor buyer and visual merchandiser Dany Trevino keep it simple: Beautiful holiday styling begins with greenery and a “no rules” approach to choosing trimmings for your home.
Pine Perfection
From the forests of western North Carolina, Fraser firs offer an invigorating pine scent and a color that works with every decor style. Tuck sprigs into Christmas tree branches for extra fullness, drape DIY swags or garlands over banisters, mantels, and doorways, or arrange smaller trimmings around candles for a cozy tablescape.
Magnolia Magic
Native to North Carolina, the Southern magnolia is about as elegant as it gets. The long stems and shiny green leaves with velvety brown undersides add dimension to any arrangement, wreath, or garland. Its blooms are also a perfect addition to smaller holiday touches, from gift wrapping and napkin rings to table runners.
Berry Bright
While perhaps best known for its clusters of crimson berries, winterberry holly also has sturdy stems that support even the fullest arrangements. Try spraying the stems gold for centerpieces, or dust them with fake snow to fill in tree branches. Feeling classic? Cut small berry branches to add further festive touches throughout the home.
From Tuski and Trevino: “Add eucalyptus stems to magnolia for a beautiful fragrance and a frosty blue hue.”
TIP
From Tuski and Trevino: “Place cut greens in soil, if possible, and water them like a houseplant! Or mist them daily.”
Photos courtesy of Tuski and Trevino
PRO
PRO TIP
Add Some Sparkle
Susanne Ordonez, principal designer and owner of House of Maevie in Raleigh, brings European influence and thoughtful elegance to the holidays. Surrounded by North Carolina’s lush greenery, she’s constantly inspired by new ways to incorporate sustainable outdoor finds that add depth, warmth, and natural texture to her holiday decor.
As for her favorite holiday trimmings? “Magnolia leaves carry a glossy richness, holly offers traditional structure with its sharp edges and berries, and pine softens the mix with its wispy shape,” Ordonez says.
Focus on the Details
Whether styling a garland, mantel, or tabletop, Ordonez recommends going a step beyond greenery. Try tucking in natural berries, dried orange slices, or sprigs of baby’s breath—a fluffy, snowlike touch that feels perfectly wintery. These natural trimmings help create a holiday home that feels layered, authentic, and inviting.
Celebrate Your Home
Sustainable holiday decor doesn’t have to mean rustic! Ordonez notes that both modern and traditional homes shine with eco-friendly styling. She loves to highlight standout features in her space, like draping greenery beneath the large range hood in her kitchen or layering it across the fireplace mantel.
Embrace Holiday Hues
While it’s important to make sure your decor is cohesive with your design aesthetic, there’s something to be said for a vibrant, festive home. Ordonez is a self-proclaimed “big fan” of the collected, colorful look often seen in British holiday decor. “It reminds me of the cheerful, painted homes along the Southern coast. Both celebrate color in a way that feels joyful and unpretentious,” she adds.
Pro tip from Ordonez: “Adding citrus slices or clusters of berries keeps the greenery feeling fresh and adds pops of color. Keep it simple. Simplicity always looks more sophisticated.”
PRO TIPS
From Ordonez: “Instead of committing to a strict color scheme, mix shades of cinnamon, soft pinks, powder blues, bright reds, and even hints of orange. Paired with natural greenery and berries, the result feels playful and layered, rather than staged.”
“I’ll tie a little bunch of greenery to a sconce with a velvet ribbon, and it looks so pretty against an aged brass finish.”
Photos courtesy of House of Maevie
Tannan Plastic Surgery: Where Beauty and Wellness Converge
True beauty is not a fleeting surface impression— it is the artful balance of vitality, confidence, and timeless elegance. At Tannan Plastic Surgery, every detail of your experience is designed with intention. From the moment you enter our Raleigh office and surgical suite, through recovery and long after, you are cared for not as a case, but as a whole person.
At the helm is Dr. Shruti Tannan, a boardcertified plastic surgeon whose expertise is matched only by her devotion to her patients. With advanced training, years of experience, and recognition at local, regional, and national levels, Dr. Tannan is widely sought for her artistry and surgical acumen. Together with her all-female team, she delivers transformations that are as enduring as they are exquisite.
AN ELEVATED PHILOSOPHY: INSIDE AND OUT
At Tannan Plastic Surgery, transformation is never one-dimensional. Our patient-centered, holistic approach begins within and extends outward.
• Inner Health. Radiance begins with
resilience. Through GLP-1 protocols and revitalizing IV infusions, she helps patients achieve balance in metabolism, energy, and wellness. Modern life—from professional demands and caregiving to the passage through menopause—creates unique challenges, and Dr. Tannan’s approach restores equilibrium so beauty can truly flourish.
• Outer Health and Aesthetics. Surgical artistry meets advanced noninvasive care in the comprehensive suite of services at Tannan Plastic Surgery. Whether enhancing the face with Botox®, fillers, and Morpheus8 microneedling, or sculpting the face, body, and breast with transformative surgical procedures, every treatment reflects the precision and safety of our QUAD A-certified surgical center.
• Postoperative Integration. True refinement lies in longevity. That is why recovery is elevated to an art form—posture-restoring physical therapy after breast reduction, core-strengthening electromagnetic stimulation following abdominoplasty, and bespoke exercise guidance tailored to breast
augmentation techniques. Each step ensures that results are not only beautiful, but enduring.
• Confidence and Emotional Well-Being. Lasting elegance radiates from self-assurance. We honor both the physical and emotional aspects of transformation, offering support that sustains confidence well beyond the procedure.
THE LUXURY OF WHOLENESS
At Tannan Plastic Surgery, you are not a passive recipient of care—you are a partner in a refined, lifelong journey. Here, beauty is cultivated, wellness is safeguarded, and confidence is elevated.
Discover what it means to be exquisitely seen, supported, and transformed—inside and out.
DEPARTMENT STYLE
WINTER HIBERNATION IS SKIN’S REJUVENATION
The B.E.A.R. steps to give your skin a much-needed break— and the radiance that will keep your glow going strong, season after season
STORY BY RACHEL DANIELLE HARRELL
When temperatures drop and nature slows down, it’s tempting to think that our skin does the same. But here’s the secret: Winter is when your skin does its quietest, most restorative work. While you cozy up in soft knits and sip something warm, your skin is soaking in every bit of TLC you give it now—preparing to glow when spring blooms again.
Just as the earth quietly prepares for spring beneath its frost, your skin is busy renewing itself beneath the surface. While dryness or dullness may appear on the outside, beneath it, your skin is strengthening its barrier, rebuilding collagen, and repairing microdamage.
When you treat winter wellness as a ritual rather than a routine, you recharge your beauty battery—one thoughtful habit at a time. The B.E.A.R. method is a four-step framework (Balance, Enrich, Armor, Rejuvenate) that will help you prevent dryness and dullness throughout the season and heal you from the inside out.
BALANCE
Maintain your skin’s pH and oil production with gentle cleansers that do not strip the pH levels from your skin. The best way to maintain balance and prepare your skin for its vitamin boost is by washing your face with a nourishing cleanser, twice daily (morning and evening). Find ingredients that are best suited for your skin. This is the ideal season to support your skin’s balancing process. It supports and replenishes moisture, reinforces structure, and builds longterm resilience through the cold months.
ENRICH
Feed your skin with serums rich in antioxidants and hydrating ingredients that promote elasticity and glow. To help your skin thrive, use a serum that provides three essential qualities—hydration, protection, and fortification. Support that process with ingredients that feed your skin’s repair cycle: ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and niacinamide. Together, they replenish moisture, reinforce structure, and build long-term resilience through the cold months. Ingredients that support these three processes in your serums will work on a deeper level, and a layered serum packed with humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin attract moisture deep into the skin. My favorite antioxidant is vitamin C, as it brightens and defends against environmental stressors, while barrier-repair ingredients (think ceramides and fatty acids) strengthen your skin’s natural shield.
ARMOR
Strengthen your barrier with nutrition, thick creams, and oils that lock in moisture and protect against cold, dry air. And, yes, SPF too! Consistent winter care lays the foundation for springtime radiance. This season is your skin’s training ground—by nurturing it now, you’re setting the stage for a smoother, brighter, more resilient complexion when the seasons change.
Nourishment matters for your skin care routine. The types of food you digest that work to repair you from the inside out, and what you put on your skin, help your skin glow. So fill your plate with healthy fats (hello, avocado and salmon), antioxidant-rich produce, lean proteins, and collagen-supporting foods like citrus and bone broth. These nutrients work from the inside to repair and protect your skin, helping it glow from within.
Armor up with your moisture-rich, antioxidant- and vitamin-infused,
SPF-loving daily moisturizer—both morning and night. You’re building those positive barriers to give your skin the safety it needs to replenish. UV rays don’t take a holiday; therefore, SPF is nonnegotiable.
Giving your skin what it needs, from the inside out, will reap many rewards. Plus, it will give you that “head-turning” glow that feels and looks natural, healthy, and alluring.
REJUVINATE
Support cell turnover with mild exfoliation and replenishing masks. End your day with a nourishing routine: a mineral-rich cleanser, a vitamin-infused serum, and a deeply hydrating night cream. Just like your wardrobe, your skin care should evolve with the weather. Winter isn’t only about defense—it’s your opportunity for deep renewal. Prioritize the right products and mindful habits now, and your skin will reward you with year-round glow.
When you start to age, your skin doesn’t exfoliate as easily, so it can’t absorb the nutrients and moisture in lotions. A gentle exfoliant once or twice a week with lactic acid or PHAs will powerfully remove dull cells and reveal a fresh, even tone. Your skin will continue to look and feel better and better as you keep up with this routine. For those of you under 30, you won’t have to exfoliate as often, but moisturizer keeps you from aging, so make that a consistent habit now. As always, check with your dermatologist before you begin any new regimen.
Winter isn’t your skin’s downtime—it’s its comeback season. Treat it with care, use the B.E.A.R. method, and you’ll emerge renewed, radiant, and ready to glow. With the holidays approaching, it’s the perfect time to turn these rituals into self-care traditions. Think of winter as your permission slip to rest, recharge, and nourish from the inside out.
s tock.adobe.com/sonyachny
CARY’S COMMUNITY THEATER TAKES THE STAGE
STORY BY KATIE EAKER
In the evenings of late August, a creative buzz can be felt radiating from the Cary Arts Center. These end-of-summer rehearsals signal the start of another season for the Cary Players Community Theatre Company, an all-volunteer community theater company that has been impressing local audiences since 2003. Their season kicked off this year with the beloved classic Grease, which ran from September 27th through October 6th.
With public auditions for all four productions each season, Cary Players prides itself on its diverse casting and ability to offer youth performers a chance to be on stage. Young performers often get their first taste of the spotlight with Cary Players, while older actors provide guidance and mentorship along the way. This multigenerational mix intertwines a tapestry of voices and experiences—a living reflection of the Cary community itself.
That spirit of philanthropy and community is highlighted in every part of Cary Players’ work. Behind the curtain, countless hands keep the magic alive. Board members trade office desks for sewing machines and paintbrushes. Parents and teenagers spend their evenings side by side, hammering nails, adjusting costumes, or helping with ticket sales. These silent behind-the-scenes roles are essential to bringing stories to life.
Jeri Summer, a board member and volunteer coordinator for Cary Players, emphasizes the importance of a balanced presence between volunteer and professional expertise. “Our actors, board of directors, and many of the behind-the-scenes helpers are volunteers. We do, however, hire professional directors, set designers, and costumers to ensure a high-quality production,” says Summer.
To ensure artistic quality, the company partners with seasoned professionals for key creative roles. Director Amanda Jenkins, having recently moved from England, has a background in drama education and youth theatre and is known for making theatre accessible to all. Jenkins is also a member of Applause! Cary Youth Theatre, where she recently directed Tuck Everlasting. Set designer Joel Soren brings an equally impressive resume, with work spanning off-Broadway productions, local stages, and even
The previous stagings of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever were a hit with audiences and featured actors of all ages, such as these children in the 2016 performace. Photo courtesy of Cary Players.
the New York Hall of Science. His recent designs for The Trip to Bountiful and Sonia Flew with Cary Players wowed audiences, and he’s eager to transform the Cary Arts Center stage once again.
For over two decades, the company has staged musicals, mysteries, comedies, and heartfelt dramas.
But it’s their annual holiday production that shines brightest, becoming a cherished tradition for families across the Triangle. On December 4–7, Cary Players will perform The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, a family-friendly play based on Barbara Robinson’s beloved children’s book. With a cast of nearly 30, the production offers opportunities for seasoned actors, first-time performers, and plenty of youth roles, showcasing the collaborative experience the company treasures.
The production tells the tale of the mischievous Herdman children, who unexpectedly find themselves cast in a local church’s Christmas pageant. What begins as chaos transforms into a lesson about empathy, kindness, and the true spirit of the holidays.
“ This will be the third time we’ve presented the play,” Summer says. “Our past productions sold out and received standing ovations. It’s a show that resonates.”
Even with expert guidance, the bulk of the work remains in the hands of volunteers. “We build our sets off-site, and then just days before opening, we load
everything into the Cary Arts Center,” Summer explains. “It’s an enormous effort, but when the curtain rises and we hear the audible gasps and ‘Wows’ at the quality, it makes every minute worth it.
For Cary Players, the holidays are more than twinkling lights and free lobby raffles. They’re about gathering the community in one room, neighbors shoulder to shoulder, to share a story of kindness, laughter, and belonging.
Cary Players also offers something increasingly rare: an in-person connection. In a world dominated by screens, a live performance encourages conversation. “It nurtures communication and interaction in a safe, welcoming environment,” Summer says.
Once the holidays pass, Cary Players will continue their season with Fortune or Fate?, a collection of clever one-act comedies by Mark Harvey Levine, staged in February at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center. In April, the company will mount Deathtrap, Ira Levin’s darkly comedic thriller, directed by longtime Cary actor and director Mark Zumbach.
Whether it’s a child auditioning for the first time, a retiree rediscovering the stage, or a business sponsoring a show, Cary Players thrives because of the many hands that lift it up.
Tickets, volunteer opportunities, and more information can be found at caryplayers.org.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Debra Grannan and Dan Martchenko directed The Best Christmas Pageant Ever in 2016. ABOVE: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is just one of the holiday plays that the Cary Players choose to put on each year. The holiday show is the only one where children take part, and is always a big hit with families. Photos courtesy of Cary Players.
BY GRACE BARKER
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
DARK CHOCOLATE RASPBERRY CUPS
A lighly sweetened raspberry center enveloped in a rich and creamy dark chocolate base, this rich and tangy flavor is ready for your next party
Setting Time: 30 minutes
Gluten-free, Dairy-free
APPLIANCES:
• 12-cup regular-sized muffin tin
• 12 regular-sized muffin tin liners
• Microwave-safe bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
For the raspberry center:
• ¾ cup frozen raspberries
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
For the chocolate base:
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or a broken-up chocolate bar)
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions:
• Prepare the raspberry center: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat frozen raspberries on high for 1 minute or until bubbling. Remove from the microwave and add in lemon juice and maple syrup. Stir. Add chia seeds and stir until combined. Set aside for 5 minutes to form a gel-like consistency.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
• Prepare the chocolate: In an additional microwave-safe bowl, add dark chocolate and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals for 2 minutes or until chocolate is melted. Remove from the microwave and stir.
• Make the chocolate cups: With the muffin tin lined with the liners, add ½ to ¾ tablespoon of melted dark chocolate to each cup, evenly spreading the chocolate across the bottom of each liner.
• Add the raspberry filling: Once liners have chocolate, scoop ½ tablespoon of the raspberry mixture into the center of each cup on top of the chocolate. Continue until all cups have been made.
• Set and serve: Place the muffin tin in the freezer for the cups to set for about 30 minutes. Remove from the freezer just before serving and enjoy!
Pro tip: These cups will store well in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Grace Barker is a recipe developer, wellness writer, and founder of Grace & Greens, where she shares practical meal plans, nourishing recipes, and inspiration for healthier living. Through her growing online community, she helps readers save time in the kitchen and enjoy healthier days with ease.
graceandgreens.com instagram.com/graceandgreens.blog
Photo by Grace & Greens
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