Midtown Magazine – November/December 2025

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

UNWRAP the MOMENT

From chocolate tastings to theater tickets — gifting experiences makes the season shine

WINTERFEST IN BLOWING ROCK

DPAC THEATER SEASON

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2025 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

HOLIDAY HEALTH + FITNESS

EDITOR’S LETTER

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here’s a specific moment I look forward to every holiday season.

It’s not the twinkling lights or the first snowfall, but the quiet hum of anticipation just before the kids tear into their presents. In that moment, the weeks of planning, the frantic online searches, the whispered consultations, and the clandestine wrapping sessions all culminate. A part of me is always holding my breath, hoping I got it right—that this is the gift that will make Sampling some wines and oysters at Stir during a their eyes light up. photo shoot for a department piece.

The pressure we put on ourselves to find the “perfect” gift can be immense, sometimes threatening to overshadow the very joy we’re trying to create.

It’s a strange paradox of the season; we wrap up our love in boxes and bows, hoping the contents are an adequate translation of our affection. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized the most cherished gifts aren’t things at all, but the moments we create together. It’s cliche but true—the real present is the experience itself.

That’s the idea that guided us as we curated this holiday issue of Midtown.

Our cover story, “Unwrap the Moment,” is a celebration of doing, seeing, and learning together. We’ve compiled a guide to unique local activities that will create lasting memories long after the decorations are packed away. In the spirit of research, our team spent an evening at Videri Chocolate Factory for a wine and chocolate pairing event, a delicious reminder of how a shared experience can be infinitely more connecting than a transactional gift exchange. You can read all about it in a special sidebar. Of course, we know that sometimes a beautifully wrapped box is part of the magic, which is why you’ll also find our annual Holiday Gift Guide inset, filled with unique items from local businesses.

The spirit of creating joy continues in our feature on WinterFest in Blowing Rock, a town that decided to turn its quietest, coldest month into a vibrant celebration, proving that the best moments often come from a simple decision to gather. And for those looking to share in the magic of live performance, we explore the spectacular season at DPAC, a perfect gift for the theater lover in your life.

This holiday season, I’m trying to focus less on the wrapping and more on the shared laughter, the quiet conversations, and the collective joy. I hope this issue inspires you to do the same—to give the gift of a new memory, a shared adventure, and a moment of connection.

Wishing you and yours a season filled with warmth and wonder.

Kyle Marie McMahon Editor-in-Chief CAROLINABALLET.COM 4 | midtownmag.com

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F O UN DER A N D OWNE R Ronny Stephens PUBLI S H ER Joe Sanger EDI TOR - I N - C H I EF Kyle Marie McMahon A RT DI R ECTO R Sean Byrne CO N TEN T EDI TOR & S EN I O R G R A PH I C DES IGNE R Dathan Kazsuk COPY EDITOR Cindy Huntley S O C I A L MEDI A MA N AGE R Delaney Garver C LI EN T S UCC ES S MA N AGE R Erica Christy DI R ECTOR OF S A L E S Collin Pruitt ACCO UN T EX EC UTI VE S Mackenzie Steiner Jessica Douglas STA F F PH OTOG R A PHE R Jessica Bratton FA S H I O N STYLI ST Sofia Lujan EDI TOR I A L I N TER NS Kate Loeffel, Anna Sanger DI STR I BUTI ON Joe Lizana, Manager DistribuTech.net CO N TR I BUTI N G WR I TE RS Grace Barker, Emmie Brooks, Samantha Carson, Frances Deese, Kurt Dusterberg, Dathan Kazsuk, Jennifer Primrose, Charlotte Russell

Midtown magazine is published six times annually. Any reproduction in part or in whole of any part of this publication is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher.

Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.

Midtown magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or art. Unsolicited material is welcome and is considered intended for publication. Such material becomes the property of the magazine and is subject to editing.

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CONTENTS

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

FEATURES 22 GIFT OF EXPERIENCE

A guide to local activities and for memorable gift ideas

30 WINTERFEST

Blowing Rock’s unique

cold-weather celebration

38 HOLIDAY BALANCE

Staying on track with health and fitness during the busy season

42 THEATER SEASON

A look at DPAC’s 17 years of

Broadway, concerts, and more

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22 42

38 ON THE COVER Chocolate from Videri Chocolate Factory.

Photo by Jessica Bratton.

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CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS

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SIP & SAVOR

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

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LOCAL TREATS

Five tasty sweets that make perfect stocking stuffers

HOLIDAY RECIPE

A delicious dessert for your holiday table

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HOME & LIVING

The rise of holistic pet care and when to use it

SPORTS & FITNESS

The story behind NC State’s beloved Wufs

SIP & SAVOR

Oysters & wine, luxe items to pair for a fancy holiday

STYLE

Rangoni Firenze’s new fall collection

KALEIDOSCOPE

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Combining photography with abstract art

IN EVERY ISSUE 12 CITY SCENE Social Scene

SPONSORED CONTENT 64

49 TRAILBLAZERS 57 HOME & LIVING

Behind the Scenes

62 BEAUTY EXPERTS

Foodie Focus

63 PLASTIC SURGERY

Home Styler

Tastes of the City

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CITY SCENE | SOCIAL SCENE

Every third Saturday, car enthusiasts meet in Fuquay-Varina at Aviator Hanger Bar for the Cars & Coffee event, a place to showcase their rides, shop from local vendors, and talk all things cars with fellow gearheads. Photo by Josh Manning.

ABOVE: Midtown sponsored a hole at the J.D. Gidley Invitational Golf Tournament, raising funds for NC DECA. Account executive Mackenzie Steiner, publisher Joe Sanger, and director of sales Collin Pruitt took part and tied for second place.

LEFT: Sam Jones BBQ will celebrate its 10th anniversary on November 16 with a smokehouse crew showdown benefitting Make-a-Wish of Eastern North Carolina.

Photo by Denny Culbert.

BELOW: Mainsail Lodging & Development announced the name and brand of a boutique hotel coming to Fenton in 2027, which pays homage to the Page family.

Let’s be social!

Follow us for all of the don’t-miss events in Raleigh.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025 | 13

CITY SCENE | BEHIND THE SCENES

ABOVE: Photographer Jessica Bratton, with her assistant/husband Ben, takes a photo of the Saleh family— Simone, father Mounir, and Noelle—at our photo shoot on September 18. The Midtown gang were out at Sassool’s FigMINT Farms for its popular Dinner in the Pines event. Pick up the November/December issue of 5 West to read the article. LEFT: Our senior stylist Sofia Lajun (left) created a fashion show at Rangoni Firenze Shoes in the Village District to showcase the new collection. Here she celebrates with store manager Edna Kovitz. Read the story in our Style section.

ABOVE, LEFT TO RIGHT: Content editor Dathan Kazsuk checks his email while in the background, account executive Makenzie Steiner holds the light during a photo shoot at Videri Chocolate Factory for our “Unwrap the Moment” feature. Art director Sean Byrne and photographer Jessica Bratton at the Rangoni Firenze Shoes fashion show. Videri founder and owner Sam Ratto talks all things chocolate to Jessica, while writer Jennifer Primrose examines what she wants to take home with her after the photo shoot.

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CITY SCENE | HOME STYLER

BY KURT DUSTERBERG | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY VENDORS

SEASONAL STYLING

The holiday season means something different to everyone, but for many, it’s all about the cozy feel of seasonal garments, live plants, colorful accessories, and, of course, Santa Claus.

Here are some items to get your season off to a fast start.

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7 1. Green velvet Santa, $140 | La Maison 2. Willa crossbody handbag, $149 | Designed For Joy 3. Holiday orchid arrangement, $95 | City Garden Design 4. Sarah sequin pumpkin sweatshirt, $68 | The Tulip Magnolia 5. 8-inch bottled Christmas Cheer acrylic block, $32 | Swagger Boutique 6. Large “Essence of Holiday” blossom diffuser, $45 | Inspirations 7. Melody scarf, $44.95 | Nofo @ The Pig 16 | midtownmag.com

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OUT + ABOUT | FOODIE FOCUS

Gym Tacos has opened at 1310 E. Millbrook Road in Raleigh. This is its third brick-and-mortar location, along with two food trucks.

News for Raleigh foodies compiled by the Midtown staff, with contributions from Triangle Food Guy Sean Lennard, who blogs at trianglefoodblog.com.

Unhinged Coffee Co has opened a brickand-mortar location at 315 N. First Street in Knightdale. Previously, Unhinged operated a mobile coffee shop.

Tipsy Bull Sports Bar is open at 800 Taylor Street in Durham’s Golden Belt Campus. In addition to food and craft beer, Tipsy Bull hosts themed nights and live entertainment.

Johnny’s Pizza has opened a location at 8759 Holly Springs Road in Apex’s Greystone Village in the former Papa’s Pizza & Subs spot.

Johnny’s also operates in Fuquay-Varina, Cary, Raleigh, and Wake Forest.

Groovy Duck Bakery is planning to open in Apex at 101 N. Salem Street. The bakery’s original location is in Raleigh.

Brunch is now served at Peregrine in north Raleigh. Photo courtesy of Peregrine.

Downtown Raleigh’s Bitter Social has opened at 104 S. Wilmington Street in the former Gallo Pelón location above Centro. The cocktail bar will host a variety of public and private events on a Thursday–Sunday schedule.

Umi Sushi has opened at 1801 Walnut Street in Cary, the former Red Lobster location near the Crossroads Plaza shopping center.

Anchor Bar—not to be confused with The Anchor Bar cocktail lounge on Fayetteville Street—will open at 6615 Falls of Neuse Road in the Falls Village shopping center. The Buffalobased chain serves up traditional, boneless, and meatless wings, along with more than a dozen sauces and rubs.

Raleigh’s Peregrine, located at 1000 Social Street, Suite 150 has launched Sunday brunch service from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. The menu includes hot honey cured egg, beef heart shawarma, falafel sliders, and sweet selections such as banana bread and an ice cream sammich.

East End Bistrot, located at 2020 Progress Court, Suite 110 in Raleigh, now has brunch service as well. The menu includes French favorites including freshly baked croissants and hazelnut-brûléed pain perdu.

St. Pierre Wine Shop + Bar has opened at 1101 E. Whitaker Mill Road in Raleigh Iron Works with an emphasis on small-producer 18 | midtownmag.com

Lawrence Barbecue has opened its newest location in downtown Cary at 150 E. Cedar Street. The renovated space features a full kitchen and bar, a dedicated oyster preparation area, an indoor dining room, and an outdoor patio.

Whiskey Kitchen, located at 201 W. Martin Street in Raleigh, has brought back chef Kyle Teears and his signature style, Appalachian culinary roots, and Southern cuisine. Guests can expect to see new seasonal dishes alongside Whiskey Kitchen favorites.

The loaded bagel is a new item at East End Bistrot, which is now serving brunch. Photo by Dathan Kazsuk.

wines with a small selction of craft beers and ciders. The bar and retail shop offer ample seating and laid‑back music.

Purple Spoon Acai is open at 3801 Hillsborough Street in Raleigh, next to Lucky Tree Bakery & Coffeehouse. Purple Spoon will serve fresh, fruity, organic açaí imported from Brazil.

The Holly Springs location of Thanks a Latte has moved to 161 Oakview Commons Drive, Suite 104. The shop has a second location in Angier.

Fuquay-Varina’s Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine has opened a second location at 16 N. Broad Street East in downtown Angier.

Also in Fuquay-Varina, Brus on Main, located at 135 S. Main Street, has been rebranded to Truman’s Smokehouse & Kitchen. The previous menu will remain in place with additional new options.

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O U T + A B O U T | TA S T E S O F T H E C I T Y

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1. BIRDIE’S BARROOM & KITCHEN Hippie Hash Bowl. Chicken fennel sausage, spinach, baby peppers, cauliflower, romesco, quinoa, and sunny-side up eggs. Photo courtesy of Birdie’s Barroom & Kitchen.

3. PEREGRINE Spinach Omelette. Local eggs, creme fraiche, pecorino, and herbs.

Photo courtesy of Peregrine.

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2. TOMI SUSHI Tomi Sushi offers a variety of sashimi, including flounder, kanpachi, black seabream, bluefin tuna, yellow tail, and trout. Photo by Dathan Kazsuk.

4. VIDRIO Baby Spinach and Brussels Sprouts Salad. Served with roasted almonds, pickled sour cherries, shaved Brussels sprouts, feta cheese, and pomegranate vinaigrette. Photo courtesy of Vidrio.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 21

UNWRAP the MOMENT STORY BY KURT DUSTERBERG PHOTOS BY JESSICA BRATTON UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

From chocolate tastings to theater tickets— gifting experiences makes hearts brighter

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oliday gift giving is easy for some, but a genuine challenge for others. There are always people on your list who seem to have everything, or whose tastes are hard to pin down. In a world cluttered with objects, the most meaningful presents are often not things at all, but moments. Most of us want the recipient to believe we tried to be thoughtful and original in our choices, and one of the best ways to do that is to think in terms of experiences rather than just physical items.

Play to the interests of your friends and family by giving an experience, perhaps one you can share. In the process, you’ll create a lasting memory that will be cherished long after the wrapping paper is gone— which is far more impactful than being remembered for a new set of kitchen hand towels.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 23

FOR THE FOODIE

These gifts are perfect for the person who loves to savor new flavors, learn a new skill in the kitchen, or enjoy a truly unique culinary event.

• Videri Chocolate Factory: Videri’s founder and chocolate maker, Sam Ratto, leads tastings at the Raleigh factory. Gather a group of 10–15 people to learn the finer points of producing bean-to-bar chocolates. Choose from the Signature Box or the Enthusiast’s Box for dark chocolate lovers. Virtual events can also be scheduled. $69–$89 per person.

• Triangle Wine Company: Wine tastings, educational classes, and winemaker meet-and-greets are sprinkled across the calendar at the Cary and Holly Springs locations. Whether your taste runs toward beer, cocktails, or a full wine dinner, there are plenty of choices. Wine tastings are $10–$45, while wine-and-food events are $35–$95.

• Private Chefs: Book a bespoke culinary experience for family, friends, or a date night. Websites like takeachef.com offer chefs who can prepare everything from classic Southern barbecue to inventive dishes with local ingredients. Give a gift card with menu proposals and chef profiles.

• Flour Power Cooking Studios: Cooking classes in Cary and Holly Springs teach aspiring chefs of all ages. There are classes for adults, teens, kids, and families where you can learn to make everything from sauces to desserts. Individual classes begin around $65.

PAGES 22–23: Videri chocolate bonbons.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Videri’s chocolate tasting tour includes wine pairings. Their bonbons are a hit for any chocolate lover.

Owner Sam Ratto (right) gives a tour of the chocolate-making process.

OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Carolina Clay Studio offers expert-led classes. Photo courtesy of Carolina Clay Studio. Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker. Photo by Armes Photography. Former Broadway actress Lauren Kennedy Brady, Theatre Raleigh’s executive director. Photo courtesy of Theatre Raleigh. Theatre in the Park’s A Christmas Carol is a Triangle tradition. Photo courtesy of Theatre in the Park.

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FOR THE CREATIVE SOUL

Inspire their inner artist with a hands-on class where they can learn a new craft, refine their skills, and bring home a handmade treasure.

• Pullen Arts Center: This community visual arts facility supports artists of all ages and levels.

Programs are instructed by professional teaching artists in pottery, bookmaking, printmaking, painting, jewelry, and more. Individual classes begin at $30, while six-session programs start around $180.

• Carolina Clay Studio: Located in Cary, this community-focused ceramics space welcomes newcomers and experienced potters alike. The studio offers expert-led classes and memberships, with fees covering all necessary materials, kilnfiring services, and studio time. Individual classes begin at $85.

FOR THE THEATER AND MUSIC LOVER

Give the gift of a captivating performance with a subscription to a local theater or tickets to a highly anticipated show.

• Early Holiday Gifts: For a gift that can be enjoyed right away, consider tickets to one of the many holiday performances this season. NC State University’s Stewart Theatre will host City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker (December 5–6). The Durham Performing Arts Center hosts A Magical Cirque Christmas (November 19) and Elf: The Musical (November 26–30), while the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts welcomes the North Carolina Symphony’s Handel’s Messiah (December 5–6) and Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker (December 11–24). Both DPAC and the Martin Marietta Center will also feature Ira David Wood’s A Christmas Carol, a beloved tradition.

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• North Carolina Master Chorale: The organization’s primary ensemble is the 175-member adult Symphonic Choir that performs classical, popular, and holiday selections. The 2025–26 season features a season ticket of six performances ($185), while the Pops Package includes three shows ($105). The Master Chorale serves as the resident choir for the North Carolina Symphony.

• Theatre Raleigh Arts Center: Under the direction of former Broadway actress Lauren Kennedy Brady, Theatre Raleigh hosts a full season of main stage shows featuring both Broadway performers and local talent. The lineup includes Come from Away, Dear Evan Hansen, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, and the holiday classic Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley. Gift cards can be purchased online and used at all Theatre Raleigh presented events. Season passes begin at $195.

• Theatre In The Park: A season subscription is available for the 2026 season, featuring Cyrano, The Book of Will, Eurydice, The Revolutionists, and Evil Dead The Musical. An adult membership is $116.90. Student, senior, and military memberships are $95.45.

FOR THE ADVENTURER

For the person who loves a good challenge or a bit of friendly competition, these experiences offer a dose of adrenaline and fun.

• Golf Swing Evaluations: Technology-driven fittings, launch monitors, and professional coaching can help golfers improve their game.

Options in the Triangle include Club Champion (Cary and Durham) and Golftech (Raleigh).

Prices vary from $50–$150.

• Go-Karting: For those who enjoy an adrenaline rush, a few laps around the track will get the competitive juices flowing. Prices for a race begin around $25. Rush Hour Karting in Morrisville and Garner also offers axe-throwing and virtual reality experiences.

• Escape Rooms: Perfect for those who enjoy problem-solving, teams can work together to find clues and complete a mission—from jungles and magic realms to space adventures. Options include Whole Brain Escape in Apex, Game On Escapes & More in Cary, and Nerd Escape Room in Raleigh. Individual prices begin around $30.

• Museum Memberships: A museum membership is a gift that offers a full year of discovery. The Museum of Life and Science (Durham), North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (Raleigh), North Carolina Museum of Art (Raleigh), and Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh) all offer annual memberships, ranging from $40–$185.

FOR THE ONE WHO NEEDS A BREAK

Sometimes the best gift isn’t an activity, but a chance to unwind, relax, and recharge in a beautiful setting.

• A Day at the Spa: Give the gift of pure relaxation with a certificate for a massage, facial, or other wellness treatment. The Triangle is home to luxurious spas, such as Woodhouse Spa in Raleigh’s North Hills and The Spa at The Umstead in Cary, both known for their serene environments and high-end services, providing the ultimate escapes from daily stress.

• Luxury and Boutique Hotel Gift Cards: The opportunity for a getaway weekend is a welcome gift, even without leaving town. Local options like The Mayton (Cary), Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club (Durham), and The Fearrington House Inn (Pittsboro) offer gift cards for dining and overnight stays.

HOW TO GIFT AN EXPERIENCE

Giving an experience doesn’t mean you have to show up empty-handed. The key is to create a sense of anticipation. Instead of just a printed gift certificate in an envelope, consider a themed presentation. For a cooking class, you could wrap the certificate with a new whisk and a cookbook. For a weekend getaway, you could present it with a travel guide and a nice bottle of wine. You can also create a custom invitation that details the experience, turning the gift itself into a beautiful, tangible keepsake that builds excitement for the main event.

OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP TO BOTTOM: The Mayton in Cary boasts luxurious rooms and a cozy study, as well as fine dining at Peck & Plume. Check out their new fall menu! Photo of study courtesy of Baxter Miller. All other photos courtesy of Anna Routh Barzin.

THIS PAGE, TOP TO BOTTOM: Triangle Wine Company offers giftable wine tastings and wine-and-food events. Photo courtesy of Triangle Wine Company. The North Carolina Master Chorale serves as the resident choir for the North Carolina Symphony. Photo courtesy of North Carolina Master Chorale. Enjoy a spa day at Woodhouse Spa in North Hills. Photo courtesy of Woodhouse Spa.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 27

15 Years of Cocoa and Care at Videri Chocolate Factory

BY DATHAN KAZSUK | PHOTOS BY JESSICA BRATTON

If there’s one thing Raleigh does well, it’s craft—and at Videri Chocolate Factory, craft comes wrapped in cocoa and care. Founder Sam Ratto has spent nearly 15 years transforming the way we think about chocolate—not as candy, but as food, agriculture, and art.

“Most people don’t realize cacao grows on a tree,” Ratto says with a laugh. “It’s an agricultural product, a staple of life in Central and South America. Once I learned that, it completely changed my perspective.”

After being laid off from a Southern California skate/shoe/surf company in 2008, Ratto moved east and landed a job roasting and sorting cacao beans.

That first taste of chocolate-making lit a spark. By 2011, he had launched Videri Chocolate Factory in downtown Raleigh, which now stands as one of North Carolina’s most celebrated

bean-to-bar producers. Over the years, Videri has earned more than ten Good Food Awards—honors that celebrate not just taste, but ethical sourcing and sustainable farming.

These days, Ratto and his team are focused on the experience as much as the chocolate itself. In November and December, Videri will host a wine and chocolate pairing event where guests can sip and savor the offerings inside the factory. Public tastings sell out quickly, but groups of six to 40 can book private events—ideal for corporate gatherings, birthdays, or holiday parties surrounded by the scent of fresh cocoa.

And the holidays are when Videri truly shines. Beginning November 1, the fan-favorite Peppermint Crunch Bar returns—a sure sign the season has arrived.

Not far behind are chocolate‑covered marshmallow Christmas trees, a festive

follow-up to the beloved marshmallow cats. The shop also stocks ready-to-go gift boxes, bonbon assortments, and gift cards for anyone seeking a lastminute treat that still feels personal.

For Ratto, every bar and bonbon tells a story—from the farmers who grow the cacao to the breweries and distilleries that use Videri’s chocolate in stouts, spirits, and other local collaborations.

But he’s got one more story brewing, and this one’s still a little secret.

“I can’t say too much,” he teases, “but in 2026, we’re launching something we’re calling a Speakeasy Series.” He hints at collaborations with a few Triangle-area cocktail bars that will pair single-origin cocoa nibs with specific bourbons and whiskeys, creating one-of-a-kind cocktails matched with custom chocolate bars. “Let’s just say it’s going to be a lot of tasty fun.”

Sam Ratto inside Videri’s chocolate production area. The on-site shop and café offers bars, bonbons, popcorn, and more.

Videri is a bean-to-bar producer, meaning fresh, housemade treats.

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BLOWING ROCK

WINTERFEST Don’t hibernate, celebrate STORY BY JENNIFER PRIMROSE

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lowing Rock has long been one of my favorite towns in the High Country. A place that resembles a setting from a Hallmark movie. In winter, the streets glisten with fresh snow, shop windows glow with warm light, and fireplaces crackle inside the inns and restaurants that line Main Street. While the town shines in every season, it’s in the middle of winter that Blowing Rock comes alive during its annual WinterFest.

I first attended the festival in 2013, driving into a snowstorm and quickly realizing that nothing slows down this mountain town. Locals and visitors bundled up for chili cook-offs, wine tastings, ice carving, and the daring Polar Bear Plunge. Each visit since then has reinforced that WinterFest tells a story of community, creativity, and resilience. The festival helps raise money for local grants, benefiting nonprofits and strengthening the town’s spirit of giving. By joining this celebration, attendees are not just enjoying a vibrant festival—they are contributing to the heart of Blowing Rock.

That story began in 1998, when restaurateur Jimmy Crippen and his wife Carolyn were facing the quiet lull of Blowing Rock’s off-season. “My wife said, ‘Why doesn’t this town do a winter carnival?” Crippen recalls.

“I thought, yeah, why not? WinterFest was about survival—figuring out how to make it through winter.” He expected just a handful of locals to support the idea, but when 70 people showed up to his first meeting, he realized he wasn’t alone. With community backing, the first WinterFest launched the following January under a tagline that still defines it today: Don’t Hibernate, Celebrate.

LEFT: Festivalgoers take a break from the celebrations of the season at WinterFest in Blowing Rock by relaxing on a carved ice bench. Photo courtesy of WinterFest.

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EARLY TRADITIONS

From the start, the iconic Chetola Resort played a pivotal role. Marcia Greene, who served as the resort’s marketing director for nearly two decades, remembers those early planning sessions. “We hosted the Polar [Bear] Plunge from the very first year, and it was a huge success. We set the rules, staged a parade, and even handed out a Golden Plunger Award covered in glitter for the best costume,” she says. “The first year, [we had] maybe 30 plungers. By 2016, there were 130.” Costumes became part of the tradition, and she recalls one couple who would plunge every year, often dressed as ducks or penguins, and win the Golden Plunger Award more than anyone. Even into their later years, they continued to plunge.

The Polar Bear Plunge soon became the highlight of WinterFest, attracting crowds of participants and onlookers to Chetola Lake. Warren Cathcart, current owner of the resort, describes it as pure joy. “It’s all laughter and a little bit of hypothermia before heading into the sauna,” he chuckles, recalling plungers in everything from “Macho Man” Randy Savage to Flintstones outfits.

Greene laughs when she remembers how organizers worked to build the spectacle. “We had plungers march down in costume to Olympic fanfare, and then we blasted songs like Splish Splash and Jump during the plunge. It was a show,” she says. Local news anchor John Carter eventually became the emcee, lending the event even more visibility.

A WEEKEND FULL OF FESTIVITIES

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Artisan ice carvers put on a show creating works of art from large blocks of ice. Photo courtesy of Hickory Photography. The winner of the costume contest receives the Golden Plunger Award. Photo courtesy of Hickory Photography. The Polar Bear Plunge is more fun (and fitting) in a snowman costume. Photo courtesy of WinterFest. Some even brave the Polar Bear Plunge with hardly anything on at all! Photo courtesy of Chetola Resort.

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Over the years, WinterFest has grown into a whole weekend of celebration. Thursday evening begins with WinterFeast at Chetola Resort’s Timberlake’s Restaurant and Pub, where local restaurants offer guests a chance to sample a variety of dishes.

Friday night brings the Ice Stroll along Main Street.

Inside the shops, live music and tastings keep the

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 33

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atmosphere lively, while at Chetola Resort, the Festival of Lights transforms the lake with nearly 30,000 bulbs—a family favorite where guests sip hot cocoa as they wander the grounds.

Saturday morning belongs to the Polar Bear Plunge, but the day hardly ends there. Food lovers head to the Rotary Chilly Chili Challenge, where local restaurants ladle out steaming bowls of chili in pursuit of the People’s Choice Award. Erin O’Hara of Meadowbrook Inn explains, “Every business that does a chili will partner with a local nonprofit—voters drop dollars, and the dollars vote for who’s got the best chili.”

By afternoon, festivalgoers can choose between the WinterFest Beer Garden at Meadowbrook Inn, which pours regional brews, or the Sip & Savor Wine Tasting and Auction at Chetola Resort, which features both regional and international wines. “From chili dollars to wine auctions, every piece ties back to local nonprofits,” O’Hara notes. “It brings a tremendous boost to restaurants, hotels, and shops in town.”

Of course, WinterFest doesn’t forget the kids—or even the dogs. Saturday’s entertainment might include hayrides, ice-carving demonstrations in Memorial Park, or a meet-and-greet with the ice sisters from Frozen. Sunday wraps up with a pancake breakfast and the WinterPaws Dog Show, where four-legged festivalgoers strut their stuff.

Weather has always played a starring role, whether it’s freezing beer taps, fog rolling in so thick that paradegoers could barely see, or ice reforming on the lake overnight that crews had to break repeatedly for the plunge. O’Hara remembers one particularly frigid year: “It was so cold they had to break ice on the lake during the plunge—and people were more excited to jump.” Greene recalls another time when the fog was so dense that the Carolina Panthers cheerleaders, invited to boost the festivities, could barely be seen— but the show continued on. The unpredictable weather makes each WinterFest unique, creating stories relished long after the snow has melted.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT AND WHAT’S AHEAD

Through it all, one constant has been the volunteers.

“We couldn’t do it without them—there’s no way,” says Brooke Rule, event coordinator for the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce. Between Rotary members, EMS staff, and dozens of community members, as many as 70 volunteers are needed each year to keep the events running smoothly.

WinterFest enters its 28th year in 2026 and continues to grow. Rule and the Chamber are working to make each year better, exploring ideas such as moving the beer garden outdoors with firepits and live music, expanding the ice sculpture program into a dedicated “garden,” and encouraging more familyfriendly activities. “WinterFest is a family event—the dog show, ice sculptures, WinterFeast—they appeal to all ages. And we want younger families to discover Blowing Rock, too,” Rule explains.

The event’s impact goes beyond the weekend itself.

Hotels book up months in advance, restaurants hum with energy during what would otherwise be a slow season, and nonprofits secure vital support. “From the start, it boosted the economy, helped nonprofits, and gave locals a reason to celebrate. That’s why it’s lasted nearly three decades,” says Charles Hardin, retired president and CEO of the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce.

Looking ahead to WinterFest 2026, visitors can expect beloved traditions alongside fresh surprises— from family-friendly fun to live music and festive activities—all set against the scenic beauty of Blowing Rock. To ensure you don’t miss out, book your accommodations early to avoid fully reserved rooms.

Start planning your visit now, and be a part of this unforgettable celebration.

WinterFest usually takes place toward the end of January, with next year’s celebration scheduled for January 22–25, 2026. Full event details, schedules, and updates can be found on the festival’s website: blowingrockwinterfest.com.

For past attendees, WinterFest feels like a reunion with familiar faces, local pride, and plenty of fun. For newcomers, it’s an invitation into the heart of the community. “A lot of small-town festivals come and go, but WinterFest has grown, adapted, and stayed true to itself for nearly three decades. That’s what makes Blowing Rock special,” Hardin states. And for Crippen, who planted the first seed of the idea back in 1998, the festival’s message remains as true as ever: “For organizers, keep it fresh. For attendees, don’t wait to enjoy life. Don’t hibernate—celebrate.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Polar Bear Plunge draws a large crowd, including daring jumpers, despite the frigid temps. A bear ice sculpture at sunset. There are many activities to keep children entertained as well, including all the costumes on parade. Photos courtesy of WinterFest.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 35

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h th & 11t Only 0 1 ber T NCSU

m RE A DeceWART THEAT STE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 37

The Mega Workout features small class sizes, which provide a community-like setting for an extra boost to keep you motivated during the holidays.

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HOLIDAY HEALTH CHOICES Hit the gym or splurge on dessert?

It’s a tough call during the holidays

F

STORY BY KURT DUSTERBERG | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MEGA WORKOUT

or many of us, the holidays are the busiest time of the year. We’re pulled in different directions for family gatherings, parties, and celebrations. But all of those commitments can take a toll on our well-being. It’s easy to neglect healthy routines and put on a few pounds.

With a bit of thoughtful planning, November and December don’t have to be a fitness disaster. Both eating patterns and exercise routines play critical roles in weight management, so the trick is to stick to what works the rest of the year—as best as you can.

The benefits go beyond just keeping unwanted pounds at bay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the benefits of physical activity include reduced short-term feelings of anxiety and better sleep. As for exercise, it’s only natural to cut some corners during the holiday chaos. But the CDC points out that just a few minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity is beneficial. So take the stairs when you can, and park a bit farther away when you reach your destination.

And if you can find a little bit of focus for the next few weeks, you may not need to make a lifestyle change when January 1 rolls around.

YOGA HELPS WITH MIND AND BODY

For some people, the holidays are more stressful than they are rewarding. When you combine all the chaos with the temptation to overeat, it can be a difficult one-two punch. That’s where the practice of yoga can provide a variety of benefits.

“The practice of yoga brings about a realization that your peace and happiness doesn’t rely on what’s going on externally,” says Mary Scudella, a teacher and studio manager at Bliss Body Yoga in Raleigh.

The studio offers a variety of classes, including a six-week beginner package. The physical benefits of yoga include increased flexibility and improved muscle strength, but if you’re looking for some peace of mind, that’s part of the practice too.

“So at that holiday party with your family, if you know that uncle Tom is a jerk, then that doesn’t necessarily have to ruin your sense of joy on the inside,” Scudella says. “Because that’s not what joy is really about at its fundamental core.”

Whether you are seeking emotional calm or physical movement this season, a few yoga classes could go a long way.

“It doesn’t take many times on the yoga mat to feel the benefits,” Scudella says. “Maybe you choose to overeat or you choose to indulge at a holiday party, but give yourself a little bit of forgiveness and grace in those moments.”

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THIS PAGE: The Mega Workout offers three different exercise formats in a boutique fitness studio setting, meaning more personalized attention and accountability.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Alicia Belle, founder and owner of Raleigh’s The Mega Workout, is set to open a second location this November in Cary.

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GROUP SETTING IDEAL FOR THE LONG GAME

Alicia Belle has seen it before—people looking for the holiday quick fix. The owner of Raleigh’s The Mega Workout knows that isn’t realistic.

“Certain people say, ‘I wanna do this in 30 days,’” says Belle. “We encourage a little bit longer. Give it three months, then see how it feels.”

Mega offers classes in three exercise formats: Megaformer (a Lagree-certified, controlled workout), Mega Mat (high-rep toning) and Mega Tramp (lowimpact cardio). No matter which format people choose, the group setting is a key benefit.

“People work out in gyms or boutique fitness studios for the personalized attention, but also for the community,” Belle says. “They want to be pushed in a way where people feel seen and accountable for showing up and working hard.”

Belle believes a change in workout attitudes is helping people stick with their routines, something that is especially helpful during the holiday season.

“I think people are thinking that exercise shouldn’t be a punishment,” she says. “It shouldn’t be the countereffect of overindulging, but it should be a pivot in the way we think about movement for wellness. It brings you joy, and ultimately you feel better afterwards. Hopefully you’re moving for the long game and not as a punishment.”

Belle suggests choosing workout methods that are high-intensity, but with low-impact movement. As for the balance between staying active and indulging in holiday goodies, that’s more a state of mind.

“It’s giving yourself grace, knowing that you’re not gonna lose muscle tone by not working out at the top level of your game for two weeks in December,” says Belle, who will open a Cary studio in November. “Be okay with having really excellent days, and days that you could call a bad day.”

LOVE SWEETS? PICK YOUR SPOTS

For most of us, the most conspicuous temptation at the holidays is food. From the candied yams and pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving to the Christmas cookies, there are pitfalls throughout the last two months of the calendar. And don’t forget all the occasions where a cocktail is involved.

Stacey Ray, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist, thinks it’s best to be realistic.

“It’s sweet treats from here on until New Year’s Eve,” Ray says. “We roll into all the pumpkin stuff and the pumpkin spice lattes, then we have cakes and pies and cookies—until everyone makes New Year’s resolutions and cuts them out.”

THE SOLUTION?

“I think you need to be honest with yourself: What do I really enjoy this time of year?” she says. “Then, what other things can we do to offset the things we’re gonna enjoy this holiday season?”

It’s difficult to be disciplined at every turn, but Ray identifies three areas to exercise good judgement.

• Fancy coffee drinks: “I feel like people should just steer clear of them. They’re so calorie-laden and a sugar bomb. I just wouldn’t waste the calories.”

• Alcohol: “You tend to forget that those calories are piling up. They always say two glasses of water between every alcoholic beverage. That also helps with pacing, and it helps you feel full.”

• Christmas cookies. “They’re small, and before you know it you’ve had four of them. You’re more mindful of the piece of cake or pie because someone’s gonna call you out for a second slice of pie. So I would say no to a cookie tray.”

Whether or not you find the self-control to steer clear of holiday sweets, there’s an easy way to make sure you’re doing something positive.

“Continue to walk, particularly after you eat,” Ray says. “It lowers blood sugar, improves insulin sensitivity, and helps with digestion. It’s such an easy thing to incorporate, too.”

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SEVENTEEN YEARS OF STANDING OVATIONS STORY BY DATHAN KAZSUK

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S

eventeen years ago this November, a star rose in the American Tobacco District, made of glass, light, and ambition. When the Durham Performing Arts Center opened on November 30, 2008—with B.B. King christening the stage—it was clear this wasn’t just another theater.

At the time, Durham’s arts landscape was still growing, with local theaters and cultural events contributing to its burgeoning reputation as a cultural hub. However, DPAC’s arrival marked a turning point, establishing Durham as a must-visit destination for top-tier performances. DPAC provided a new home not just for Broadway shows and concerts, but for a community seeking a vibrant arts scene where every seat felt like the best in the house.

On a sunny afternoon leading up to DPAC’s 17th birthday, I sat down with general manager Bob Klaus to talk about the past, present, and future of this Durham powerhouse. Klaus was DPAC’s very first employee, back when his “office” was nothing more than a laptop and a table at a nearby Starbucks.

“I really have been here since the building came out of the ground,” Klaus says with a laugh. “Back then, there were a lot of questions. No one knew what to expect. Now, 17 years later, it’s been incredible to see how this place has grown.”

LEFT: Americana artist Jason Isbell performs. Photo courtesy of Michael Gillman.

ABOVE: The exterior of the Durham Performing Arts Center. Photo courtesy of HuthPhoto.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 43

When DPAC was first proposed, Durham wasn’t quite the Durham we know today. The idea of building a world-class performing arts venue in the middle of the city sparked plenty of skepticism.

“At the start, some people wondered if folks from Wake County or Chapel Hill would even drive to Durham for a show,” Klaus recalls. “But now, half of our audience comes from Wake County every year.”

That audience isn’t just local anymore. With a calendar packed with top Broadway shows, A-list comedians, and iconic musicians, DPAC regularly draws guests from across the country. The scale of DPAC’s success is staggering. Since opening, more than 6.9 million guests have walked through its glowing glass lobby for over 3,200 performances.

BROADWAY, BANDS, AND BELLY LAUGHS

Part of what makes DPAC so unique is its balance. One week, the stage might be filled with the elaborate set of The Lion King; the next, a single spotlight might shine on a comedian like Jerry Seinfeld or Bert Kreischer. And in between, legendary musicians like Duran Duran or Brandi Carlile could roll into town. “Every day, our

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mission is the same,” Klaus says. “Get the very best and biggest shows that are playing theaters to come to DPAC.” That means juggling a calendar so busy it borders on chaotic. This year alone, DPAC is hosting 265 performances. For every show that makes it to the stage, Klaus estimates four or five others are vying for the same night. “We have software to track it all,” he explains. “Some days there might be seven or eight different shows trying to land the same date. It’s a good problem to have.”

It’s not just about volume. The design of DPAC is a major factor in its success. The farthest seat is only 85 feet from the stage, creating an intimacy performers notice. “We built this theater so that no matter where you sit, you feel close to the action,” Klaus says. “Whether it’s a single comedian with a mic or a massive Broadway production, it always feels special.”

RECORD-BREAKING SEASONS

Last season was DPAC’s biggest yet. Billboard ranked it the No. 2 theater in America, while Pollstar placed it in the top five for ticket sales nationwide—a rare feat for a venue outside of New York, Las Vegas, or Atlanta.

The numbers tell the story: 260 performances; 626,071 guests; and sellouts that Broadway producers dream about. Major hits like Wicked, MJ the Musical, and Disney’s The Lion King all played extended runs, while concerts and comedy acts brought in crowds with everyone from Mitski to Nick Cave—one of my favorites.

Big shows mean big setups, too. Some Broadway productions roll in with 20 trucks worth of gear. The upcoming Harry Potter and the Cursed Child will take four full days to set up before its December 28 opening. “It’s a huge production,” Klaus says. “We’ll have crews working around the clock to bring that world to life on our stage.”

OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT: Indie rock artist Mitski performs in 2024. Photo courtesy of Michael Gillman. Marcus Mumford, who is also the lead singer of Mumford & Sons, performed solo in 2022. Photo courtesy of Andy Martin, Jr. BELOW, LEFT TO RIGHT: Simon Le Bon and John Taylor of Duran Duran in 2016. Wynonna Judd in 2023. Photos courtesy of Andy Martin, Jr.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 45

BEYOND THE MARQUEE

While DPAC’s calendar is packed with national tours and headline acts, there’s a deeper community connection at play. The venue is a main stage for the American Dance Festival and a holiday home for Raleigh’s beloved A Christmas Carol by Theatre in the Park.

Perhaps most meaningful is DPAC’s work with local youth through its Heart of the Arts programs. The Rising Stars initiative brings thousands of students to the theater, often giving them their first glimpse of a Broadway musical. “Performing arts have the power to inspire young people in a profound way,” Klaus says.

“We’re proud to play a role in that.”

The program culminates each May with an awards show, where students from 20 high schools compete for a chance to attend New York City’s prestigious Jimmy Awards. “It’s one of my favorite nights of the year,” Klaus admits. “You see these kids chasing their dreams with such passion—it’s impossible not to get emotional.”

The stage has hosted everyone from Bob Dylan to Kamala Harris, Ricky Martin to Greg Gutfeld.

Additionally, DPAC has proudly showcased numerous

local talents. Durham’s own Bull City Syndicate, known for its vibrant jazz and soul performances, has graced the stage, captivating local audiences with its energetic shows. The Carolina Ballet, a celebrated regional dance troupe, has also been a frequent performer, bringing its exquisite productions to life for the community.

LOOKING AHEAD

As the official 17th anniversary on November 30 approaches, DPAC plans to celebrate the way it always does—by putting on an incredible show. This year, the birthday falls in the middle of a busy stretch that includes Mannheim Steamroller, A Magical Cirque Christmas, and multiple Broadway blockbusters.

Klaus hinted that the 20th anniversary will feature something extra special, but for now the focus is on maintaining the guest experience that has earned DPAC national acclaim.

“Our world-famous customer service is what sets us apart,” Klaus says. “Every night, we want guests to walk away feeling like they were part of something unforgettable. We started out as a question mark. Now, 17 years later, we’re the exclamation point at the end of, ‘Let’s go out tonight!’”

The Triangle’s own Scotty McCreery performs in 2024. Photo courtesy of Michael Gillman.

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2025 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

PRODUCT PHOTOS COURTESY OF STORES AND MANUFACTURERS, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. COVER PHOTO BY STOCK .ADOBE.COM/NARSIL .

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

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

Merry Rose Flower Arrangement, Ideal for Holiday Gifting or Dinner Tables | $100 Just Bloom It Flower Bar justbloomitllc@gmail.com Travel Blanket in Galliani Print | $148 Johnny Was at Fenton in Cary fentonnc.com/directory/johnny-was

APPAREL — MEN

Emanuel Berg Premium Luxury Hybrid Brown Suede Cardigan Sweater | $1,498 Alexander Eton in Cary | alexandereton.com

Anderson’s Navy/Brown Classic Woven Stretch Belt | $195 Alexander Eton in Cary | alexandereton.com

Bugatchi Extra Fine Merino Wool Geometric 3-Button Polo | $298 Alexander Eton in Cary | alexandereton.com

Belstaff True Olive Organic Cotton Commander Quarter Zip Jumper | $300 Alexander Eton in Cary | alexandereton.com

APPAREL — WOMEN

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

Elinor Velvet Burnout Dress | $169 Betty & Jane Boutique | shopbettyandjane.com

German Fuentes Kelly Green Leather Bamboo Handbag | $199 Betty & Jane Boutique | shopbettyandjane.com

JEWELRY

14kt Yellow Gold Diamond Drop Station Necklace | $3,100 Johnson’s Jewelers of Raleigh johnsonsjewelers.com Ondelle, 18kt Yellow Gold Diamond Earrings with Carved White Mother-of-Pearl | $8,446 Johnson’s Jewelers of Raleigh johnsonsjewelers.com

Ravenna Bangle | $5,580 Johnson’s Jewelers of Raleigh johnsonsjewelers.com Lab-Grown Diamond Stud Earrings in 14kt Gold | Starting at $299 Charles & Colvard | charlesandcolvard.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

FOOD + DRINK

PHOTO COURTESY OF JULI LEONARD

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

Holiday Panettone, Available in Triple Chocolate and Pecan, Sorghum, and Sweet Potato Chocolate: $30/500g, $55/1kg | Pecan: $33/500g, $58/1kg Union Special | unionspecialbread.com

Cook’s Mill American Straight Bourbon Whiskey | $59.95 Cook’s Mill Whiskey | cooksmillwhiskey.com

King’s Pepper West African Spice Blend Trio | $27 King’s Pepper | kingspepper.com

The Sweet Raleigh Box | $32 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Brier Creek Exclusive rmchocolateraleigh.com

King’s Pepper African Taco Kit, Vegan and Gluten-Free | $10 or 3 for $27 King’s Pepper kingspepper.com

Chocolate Hazelnut Spread | $12.99 Videri Chocolate Factory viderichocolatefactory.com

Cherry de AHHbol Cherry and Chili de Arbol Hot Sauce | $10 Cherry’s | cherrysproducts.com

Assorted Small-Batch Bitters | $12 to $20 Crude Bitters | crudebitters.com

Damn Fine Vodka | $24.99 Durham Distillery | durhamdistillery.com

Skillet Coffee Blend, 8 oz (mug not included)| $16 Burial Beer Co. | burialbeer.com

Damn Fine Mocha Bourbon Cream | $36.99 Durham Distillery | durhamdistillery.com

Chapter One or Midnight Melody Coffee 12 oz each | $15.98 Crooner Coffee | croonercoffee.com

Peruvian Medium Roast Coffee, 12 oz (mug not included) | $11.99 Foothills Brewing | foothillsbrewing.com

WELLNESS

Skin Sense Gift Card $25 off with every $150 purchase or $50 off with every $300 purchase Skin Sense, A Day Spa skinsense.zenoti.com/webstorenew/giftcards

Woodhouse Spa North Hills Gift Card | $150+ Woodhouse Spa North Hills northhills.woodhousespas.com

Regenesis MD Gift Card Customizable for any budget Regenesis MD | regenesismd.com

Better Skin Analysis | $149 Better Aesthetics bettermedsparaleigh.com

The MedSpa Gift Card Customizable for any amount The MedSpa At Raleigh Plastic Surgery Center themedsparaleigh.com

PETS

West Paw Zogoflex Zisc All-Weather Flying Disc | $20.99 Unleashed | unleashedmutt.com Dezi & Roo Hide and Sneak Tunnel | $13.99 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

Ark Naturals Ears All Right, Neem “Protect” Shampoo, or Neem “Protect” Spray | $11.99 each Unleashed | unleashedmutt.com

Polkadog Alaskan Salmon Chips, 4oz | $12.99 Polkadog Alaskan Cod Chips, 3.5oz | $12.99 Unleashed | unleashedmutt.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOB STUART

ENTERTAINMENT

The Nutcracker presented by City Ballet December 5–6, 2025 | Seats start at $25 City Ballet Raleigh | city-ballet.com

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 Secret Astronomers

by Jessica Walker $19.99 Quail Ridge Books quailridgebooks.com The BIG Crayon Box

by Drew Daywalt, Illustrated by Oliver Jeffers Set of 3 Books | $57.97 Quail Ridge Books | quailridgebooks.com

Vist us at North Hills 4151 Main at North Hills St. Raleigh, NC 27609 WWW.JOHNNIE-O.COM

LIMITED TIME OFFER

$200 gift card for $150 No limits on number

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.

Discover your personalized path to lasting wellness.

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

7431 Six Forks Road, Raleigh | 919.500.7439 | 4everyoungantiaging.com/north-raleigh

TRAILBLAZERS & TRENDSETTERS Meet the leaders who are redefining what it means to achieve,

Photo by stock.adobe.com/Jacob Lund

inspire, and make an impact in our community.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 49

TRA I L B L A ZER S & TREN DS ETTERS ⅼ DR . BHAV N A VA IDYA , M D, R EG E N E SIS M D

D R . B H AV N A VA I DYA , M D REGENESIS MD

8020 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh WHAT ASPECT OF YOUR WORK ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? At Regenesis, what fills me with pride is how seamlessly our team blends art and science to restore not only beauty but also vitality. We specialize in regenerative and aesthetic medicine that goes far beyond surface results — our patients often come to us after exhausting every option elsewhere, and leave feeling like they’ve regained their life, energy, and confidence. Each treatment plan is deeply personalized, grounded in innovation, and designed to help our patients look and feel better than they did 10 or even 20 years ago.

WHERE DO YOU FIND ENERGY AND INSPIRATION FOR WHAT YOU DO? My energy comes from the transformations I witness every day.

When a client tells me they finally have their energy back, or they feel at home in their skin again, it reminds me why this work matters. I also draw inspiration from nature and functional medicine itself—it teaches us that healing is a process of restoration, not force. That philosophy fuels me to keep showing up with passion and care.

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU CAN REACH OUT TO AND SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO ARE JUST STARTING OUT IN YOUR INDUSTRY? I believe in mentoring with transparency—sharing not just the successes but also the challenges of running a functional medical spa.

Opening my doors for shadowing, offering guidance on both the medical and business side, and creating a sense of community rather than competition are all ways I support those starting out. At the end of the day, when more practitioners succeed in bringing holistic, functional care to their communities, we all rise—and more people get the healing they deserve.

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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.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 51

TR A ILBLA Z E R S & TR E ND SE TTE R S | DR . S HRUTI TA N N A N , TA N N A N P LA STIC S URGERY

D R . S H R U T I TA N N A N

D E PA RT M E N T S I P & SAVO R

UNIQUE HOLIDAY GIFTS 5 LOCAL TREATS STORY BY S AMANTHA CARSON

The holidays are just around the corner, and if you’re 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 treats are sold year-round, so you don’t need to worry about stocking up (though they certainly make great stocking stuffers).

Here are five locally made goodies your family and friends are sure to love— plus a bonus treat for your furry family members.

DOUGHNUTS BY PLANT CAKES BAKE SHOP Based in Wake Forest, Plant Cakes Bake Shop distinguishes itself as the first all-vegan, animalproduct-free bakery in the region. The treats here are dairy-free, egg-free, and plant-based, making this bakery one of the best options for customers with dietary sensitivities, intolerances, and allergies. Plant Cakes offers many kinds of treats, but the vegan and gluten-free doughnuts are the standout giftable goodies. Doughnuts are available for order in person or online, either individually or by the half or full dozen.

410 S. White Street, Wake Forest | plantcakescakeshop.com

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Photo by Mo Elle Photography

MACARONS BY LITTLE BLUE MACARON From international education in Texas to pastries in North Carolina, Little Blue Macaron owner Allison Vick has had quite an interesting career. Unlike the other gems on this list, Little Blue Macaron offers only one type of treat: the titular macaron. But while the menu may not have the same variety of baked goods, it more than makes up for it in the quality, flavor, and presentation of the compact French confection. There are standard favorites such as Browned Butter Vanilla and Dark Chocolate, but also the occasional character-themed macarons based on films such as Wicked and Dogman. Or try one of the seasonal specials like Watermelon or the unique Hot Tomato Summer macaron, made of a vanilla shell filled with a ring of basil white chocolate ganache and Duke’s mayo, with a center of bacon and North Carolina heirloom tomato jam. To top it all off, the bakery also offers vegan macarons. These treats can be found in person at Raleigh’s Little Blue Bakehouse or several vendors around town.

2116-H New Bern Avenue, Raleigh | littlebluemacaron.com

ARTIE BARS BY ARTIE BARS Made in Raleigh by husband-and-wife team Artie and Nicole Januario, an Artie Bar is nearly half a pound of handmade millionaire shortbread cookie bars. Baked in small batches, the Original Artie Bar consists of a layer of rich chocolate ganache, a layer of gooey caramel, and a final layer of buttery shortbread cookie. Artie Bars have seven flavors in addition to the original, plus a gluten-free bar.

If one isn’t enough, they also come in a set of four bestselling bars or a bundle with two bars and a handcrafted wood-wick cocoascented candle from fellow small business Sow and Glo. Artie Bars can be found in several coffee shops and locations around Raleigh or ordered online and shipped to any of the 48 contiguous states. artiebars.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 53

VEGAN SNICKERDOODLE CREME PIE BY JP’S PASTRY

With locations in Benson, Greenville, and now in Raleigh, JP’s Pastry is a hidden gem to watch in the Triangle. Owner and baker Joe “JP” Parker is making a name for himself— particularly in the gluten-free community—with his wide variety of gluten-free goods and meals. One such treat is the Vegan Snickerdoodle Creme Pie, filled with vegan vanilla buttercream frosting. The Creme Pie is gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and soy-free, and can either be purchased in store or ordered online in packs of four for nationwide shipping.

Other goods can be found in Whole Foods Market locations, independent groceries, and other locations.

2310 Bale Street, Suite 104, Raleigh | jpspastry.com

CHUNKY COOKIES BY GROOVY DUCK BAKERY

Raleigh-based Groovy Duck Bakery has been a sweet treats staple since its establishment in 2012. The bakery carries all kinds of flavors of fresh-baked muffins and cupcakes as well as bars, custom cakes, and seasonal specials, but it’s the Chunky Cookies that have customers coming back for more. Each cookie has a thick but crisp outside with a gooey inside, bursting (or sometimes oozing) with flavors ranging from the standard chocolate chip to Nutella, red velvet, Biscoff, and more. Customers can purchase cookies individually or in boxes, either by shopping in person or ordering online for in-store pickup. NOTE: Online orders require three business days’ prep time.

3434 Edwards Mill Road #110, Raleigh groovyduckbakery.com

BONUS: DOG AND CAT TREATS BY HANDSOME HOUND DOG TREATS

Durham-based Handsome Hound Dog Treats was launched in 2021 by Susan Graff, who started baking pet treats as a fundraiser to support the staff of her pet-sitting business during Covid lockdown. All treats are preservative-free and baked in Graff’s kitchen. Treats are available for both dogs and cats, and can be purchased online with free delivery within the city limits of Durham. Ten percent of all proceeds made from treat sales go to local animal rescue organizations, with Triangle Beagle Rescue as the designated recipient through the end of 2025. handsomehounddogtreats.com 54 | midtownmag.com

D E PA RT M E N T S I P & SAVO R

DECADENT DOUBLE CHOCOLATE BROWNIES A fudgy brownie with a rich cocao base and creamy white chocolate chip glaze, perfect for your next holiday gathering

BY GR ACE BARKER Servings: 8–12 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Gluten-free, Dairy-free

APPLIANCES: • Mixing bowl or stand mixer • Measuring cups and spoons • 8x8-inch baking dish • Spatula • Parchment paper • Butter knife For the wet ingredients: • 3 eggs • 6 tablespoons avocado oil • ¾ cup coconut sugar For the dry ingredients:

Photo by Grace & Greens.

• 1/3 cup cacao powder • 1 1/4 cups 1:1 gluten-free baking flour •½ cup dark chocolate chips (72% recommended) For the topping: • ½ cup white chocolate chips • ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Instructions: • Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F and line a baking pan with parchment paper.

• Mix the wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, avocado oil, and coconut sugar until combined.

• Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the cacao powder and baking flour. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.

• Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 22 to 26 minutes, or until

cooked through (use a toothpick to check the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready).

• Add the topping: While the brownies are still warm, sprinkle the white chocolate chips and flaky sea salt evenly over the top. Let the chocolate melt slightly, then gently spread with a knife.

• Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Enjoy!

Pro tip: These brownies will store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

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

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 55

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DEPARTMENT HOME & LIVING

THE WHOLE PET Adding holistic care to your pet’s health routine STORY BY FR ANCES DEESE

O

ur pets offer us comfort and love every day. As pet parents, we constantly seek ways to return that empathy, and keeping an open mind to different care approaches can allow us to support them in new and profound ways. One of the fastest-growing fields in animal wellness is holistic care.

Terms such as “holistic” and “alternative care” can conjure up images of crystals or unproven remedies. Tell loved ones you’re using holistic methods for your pet’s care and they may label you as an inadequate pet parent. Yet this field of care is far more nuanced, based on many time-tested practices and scientific backing with research that is increasingly growing.

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OPPOSITE PAGE: Certified massage therapist Melanie Hampton giving a lucky dog a massage. Photo courtesy of Serenity Pet Massage. ABOVE: Dr. Tierra Hawley, who treats pets in the comfort of their own homes, has added accupunture to her list of services. Photo courtesy of Total Quality Mobile Veterinary Care.

At its core, a holistic approach believes that the body knows how to heal itself once the right support is administered. It complements traditional veterinary medicine by focusing on a pet’s overall well-being to address chronic pain, post-surgery recovery, and general wellness. Holistic care options for pets include acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic adjustments, herbal remedies, and nutritional support. Local professionals emphasize the importance of consulting with your primary veterinarian, as these methods are best used in conjunction with traditional care. Here in the Triangle, a growing number of practitioners are offering these services to provide comprehensive support for our furry friends.

is similar to human care, with an intention to address trigger points and realign the body so that nerves can heal as they are supposed to.

Melanie Hampton, a Certified Canine and Equine Massage Therapist with over 30 years of experience as a registered veterinary technician, utilizes her extended knowledge of animal physiology to reduce tension, increase flexibility, and support healing. Massage therapy is proven to lower cortisol levels and calm the nervous system in both humans and animals. Hampton is also certified in Reiki and Healing Touch for Animals, an energy field therapy. As a mobile provider, she brings stress-free, convenient care directly to pets.

HANDS-ON HEALING: CHIROPRACTIC AND MASSAGE

After experiencing the benefits of acupuncture herself, Dr. Tierra Hawley of Total Quality Mobile Veterinary Care became certified in the technique. Originating in China and in practice for thousands of years, acupuncture targets specific meridians (energy pathways) in the body. Recent research suggests the needles create microtraumas, which trigger the brain to release natural endorphins and opioids to comfort the body. When treating osteoarthritis and neurological issues, Dr. Hawley shares that results can last one to two weeks, and can improve through consecutive treatments.

For issues related to the musculoskeletal system, physical therapies can offer significant relief. Having practiced human chiropractic care for nearly three decades, Dr. Hoag of Optimum Health Chiropractic in Raleigh got back to her roots in equine sciences to receive a certification in animal chiropractic. She sees many types of conditions, but most often treats injuries from common play or impaired limbs. While animals don’t produce the same “cracking” sound, the practice

ANCIENT PRACTICE, MODERN APPLICATION

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 59

THE FOUNDATION OF WELLNESS: DIET AND INTEGRATIVE CARE

A foundational element of any holistic approach is nutrition.

Unleashed, the Dog and Cat Store began in 2007 at a booth at The Raleigh Market. The business now features 11 stores statewide, focused on providing the best high-quality, natural pet food. Owners Amy and J.P. Phinney provide their staff with regular training to equip pet parents with knowledge beyond the purchase of food, as examining a pet’s diet can support all other holistic care methods.

For owners seeking a variety of treatments under one roof, several local practices offer comprehensive care. Peak Paws Advanced Veterinary Hospital, a 24/7 emergency veterinary hospital in Apex, also offers holistic pet care through one of its emergency veterinarians, Dr. Emily Yunker. With

training in Integrative Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Yunker provides holistic examinations to guide pet parents through individualized care plans, and the practice also provides services such as soft-tissue mobilization, cryotherapy, underwater treadmill therapy, and acupuncture.

Similarly, while known as a full-service practice, Shiloh Animal Hospital in Morrisville provides chiropractic, cold light laser, and traditional Chinese veterinary medicine, which utilizes acupuncture, herbal medicines, food therapy, and tui na (a form of medical massage) to offer alternative treatments for a variety of needs.

Ultimately, holistic care is about expanding the toolkit we use to support our pets. By integrating these time-tested practices with the strengths of modern veterinary medicine, pet owners can provide a fuller spectrum of care, returning the love and comfort their animals give them every day.

Melanie Hampton makes house visits to help dogs and cats. Photo courtesy of Serenity Pet Massage.

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D E PA R T M E N T S P O RT S & F I T N E S S

BEHIND THE MASK THE EVOLUTION OF NC STATE’S BELOVED MASCOTS STORY BY EMMIE BR OOKS

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OPPOSITE & ABOVE: Mr. and Ms. Wuf are present at NC State University games, including football and basketball.

This beloved married couple has been a part of the school’s culture for 50 years. Photos courtesy of NC State University.

S

neakers squeak on the polished court, and a sea of red waits to erupt. Somewhere in the tunnel a pair of oversized paws flex, ears twitch, and a heavy wolf’s head shifts into place. The mascot’s vision narrows to a thin mesh slit, the costume hot and heavy—but the moment the lights hit, Mr. and Ms. Wuf are no longer stitched fabric and foam. They’re the heart of the Wolfpack—larger-than-life symbols who work the sidelines, fire up the crowd, and carry decades of North Carolina State University tradition on their padded shoulders.

“They’ve been around for 50 years,” Rachel Fenton, NC State’s mascot coach, says. “They are integral to the school.” Fenton knows this from experience. She donned the suit as Ms. Wuf from 2021 to 2023, and now trains the next generation of performers.

The story of Mr. and Ms. Wuf begins nearly a century ago. From 1910 to 1919, NC State’s sports teams were represented by bulldogs named Togo and Tige. By 1921, a suggested nickname, “Wolf Pack,” appeared in the alumni newsletter. Another legend claims a newspaper once called the football team “unruly as a pack of wolves,” though no one can confirm it. Over time, the nickname stuck and became a cornerstone of the university’s identity.

The first student mascot debuted in the early 1960s in a wolf costume, and after women’s athletics were introduced, a female mascot appeared in 1975.

Back then, they were Mr. and Ms. Wolf. In 1982, Scott Joseph, then the male mascot, wore a costume his mother made. When she realized “Mr. Wolf” wouldn’t fit on the jersey, Wuf was born.

“Mr. Wuf is no longer wearing things like jeans or sweaters; he’s most often seen in shorts and a jersey, for whatever season it is,” Fenton says. “Alumni are very attached to them, which is why if we ever decide to upgrade the suits, we’re not changing the look. I’ve described Mr. and Ms. Wuf as NC State’s Mickey and Minnie Mouse, which they very much are.”

In 1981, Mr. and Ms. Wuf were married in a halftime ceremony officiated by the Wake Forest Demon Deacon mascot. The two conjoined in “canis matrimonium,” and Chancellor Joab Thomas gave the bride away. In 2011, the couple renewed their wedding vows at another basketball game, also officiated by the Demon Deacon.

Aside from their own wedding, Mr. and Ms. Wuf are often seen as surprise guests at many NC State alumni weddings. “They do hundreds of weddings,” Fenton says. “You would not believe how many weddings I went to as a college mascot … it was almost one a week!”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 65

Fenton’s own story is a testament to the mascot’s unique role in bringing people together. She and her fiance, Chase Smith, met while performing as Mr. and Ms. Wuf. “So we’re planning to have them at our wedding as well,” she says.

Beyond the court (and wedding reception dance floors), Mr. and Ms. Wuf appear at nearly every corner of campus. “You can see them at award ceremonies, the chancellor’s fall address, outdoor events ... pretty much anything they’re requested for,” Fenton says.

Rivalries bring their own brand of mischief, too—like when Ms. Wuf poses with UNC fans but casually covers the Tar Heel logo on their shirts. “We’re still friendly,” Fenton laughs. “But you’ve got to cover that up.”

And sure, the wolves have their traditions—tumbling across the mat with the cheer team at NCA Nationals, or the fourthquarter routine where Ms. Wuf climbs the marching band conductor’s ladder to lead Hey Baby while Mr. Wuf belts it back from the field. But ask Fenton what sticks with her, and it isn’t the big, rehearsed routines. It’s the little things.

“Every time I got a young kid who was scared or unsure, I’d sit with them, work with them, and try to make them happy,” she says. “When they gave me a hug or a high-five afterward—those are all of the things I remember the most.”

Being Mr. or Ms. Wuf, of course, is no casual gig. Students go through a tryout process that starts with interest meetings and video submissions before moving on to interviews and even a trial run in the suit.

The standard is high—every paw wave and head tilt has to feel seamless. But for the few who make it, the reward is worth it.

“When mascots are taking photos and we’re in the suits, most of us are grinning, even under the heads,” she says. “Raleigh sees them as representative of NC State and their spirit.”

On the court, at a wedding, or in the middle of the Brickyard, Mr. and Ms. Wuf embody the same thing everywhere they go: decades of tradition, connection, and Wolfpack pride. It’s a heavy responsibility—but also the magic that keeps the legend alive.

66 | midtownmag.com

A sweet love story, Fenton met her fiance while they were NC State’s Mr. and Ms. Wuf. Photos courtesy of Rachel Fenton.

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D E PA R T M E N T S I P & SAVO R

THE PERFECT HOLIDAY PAIRING

OYSTERS AND SPARKLING WINE STORY BY DATHAN K A ZSUK | PHOTOS BY JESSICA BR AT TON

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Local sparkling wines and ciders from North Carolina producers pair well with the minerality of many seafood items, such as oysters. North Carolina sparkling wines run the gamut from bone dry to sweet muscadine as well as meads, ciders, and fruit wines. For our tastings at home, we opted for sparkles from JOLO Winery & Vineyards, Surry Cellars, Erik Maretlla Wines, James Creek Cider House, Grandfather Vineyards, and Addison Farms Vineyard to taste the spectrum.

T

here’s something about the holidays that calls for bubbles. It’s the season of gathering, toasting, and indulging in flavors that feel a little more elevated than your average Tuesday night. And when it comes to celebration, few pairings feel as timeless— or as downright satisfying—as oysters and sparkling wine.

This year, I decided to explore that pairing through a local lens, tasting some of North Carolina’s best sparkling wines, ciders, and even a muscadine bubbly to see how they hold up next to freshly shucked oysters.

At Stir, oysters are shucked to order—resting on beds of crushed ice that could double as jewelry cases for the sea. Their team takes pride in showcasing the best of both East and West Coast varieties, all paired with house-made mignonettes and freshly grated horseradish.

According to Mitchell Sandman, general manager of Stir’s Raleigh location, oyster season is currently in full swing. “We’re lucky enough to have a big selection from around

the country, but we have a lot of local North Carolina oysters, too. Right now, we’ve got two varieties—Carolina Sweets and Mimosa Rocks—both harvested fresh out of the sound and brought to us the next day. North Carolina oysters this time of year are plump and full of salinity and brine—it’s the perfect season for them.”

But here’s something even better—you don’t have to head out to enjoy it. Stir now offers catering services that can bring that same raw bar experience right to your home or office.

“We have dedicated oyster chefs who’ll come to your event and shuck oysters live on site,” Sandman says. “There’s just something more impressive about having someone open them fresh in front of you.”

Through Stir’s catering program, you can book them for private parties, weddings, or corporate events. They offer everything from drop-off platters to full-service staff with oyster chefs, servers, and curated raw bars. Pricing varies depending on group size and menu NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 71

options—whether you want simple raw oysters or a full spread of hot dishes and sides.

And while Stir doesn’t currently pour North Carolina wines on their menu, tasting their oysters inspired me to take that experience home and see how our local producers stack up against the classics. So, with an assortment of Carolina Sweets and Mimosa Rocks on ice, I decided to put North Carolina’s sparkling scene to the test.

MY NC SPARKLING PAIRING EXPERIMENT

Armed with a dozen oysters from Stir and a few bottles from across the state, Midtown’s editor, Kyle Marie McMahon, freelance writer Jennifer Primrose, and I set out to find the perfect local pairings.

North Carolina’s sparkling wine scene is more dynamic than many realize, stretching from the Blue Ridge foothills to the Yadkin Valley and beyond. Winemakers are experimenting with everything from méthode champenoise and pét-nat styles to effervescent ciders—each one adding a new voice to the conversation.

With a little help from NC Wine’s marketing specialist, Nicole Chesney, we were gifted bubbles from JOLO Winery & Vineyards, Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, Addison Farms Vineyard, Surry Cellars, Erik Martella Wines, and James Creek Cider House.

Each pairing offered something different. Some wines enhanced the oyster’s briny salinity; others brought out subtle sweetness or minerality. Believe it or not, one standout was a sparkling hard cider from James Creek Cider House, which paired beautifully with a Carolina Sweet topped with grated horseradish.

“What’s nice about North Carolina wines,” Sandman told 72 | midtownmag.com

me, “is that the brininess and salinity of the oysters will cut through some of the sweetness you often find in North Carolina wines. They balance each other beautifully—the fattiness of the oyster meat carries the flavors of the wine.”

He’s right. There’s harmony in that contrast—the sea and the vine finding common ground.

WHY OYSTERS AND SPARKLING WINE WORK

It’s not just the tradition that makes this pairing sing— it’s science. Researchers in Copenhagen found that oysters and sparkling wine share a unique synergy in umami: the amino acids from oysters and glutamates from wine combine to heighten flavor in a way that feels almost electric.

Add in texture—the silky oyster against the effervescent bubbles— and you get one of the most satisfying mouthfeels on earth.

“North Carolina sparkling wines bring a freshness that works with oysters both raw and baked,” says Primrose. “They’re crisp, balanced, and have this minerality that keeps the pairing grounded— and they’ll pair well with many local bubbles.”

As Sandman says, “Oysters are fun food. They get people talking, laughing, trying new things—and that’s exactly what the holidays are about.”

So this season, let the bubbles rise, the oysters glisten, and the celebration stay close to home. Eat local. Drink local. Celebrate local.

Wineries such as JOLO Winery & Vineyards in Pilot Mountain and Grandfather Vineyard & Winery in Banner Elk offer dry sparkling wines that pair well with the briny taste of seafood such as local North Carolina oysters. These wines were paired with Carolina Sweets and Mimosa Rock oysters.

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Alaina Ronquillo Photography

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 73

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Crafting a style as unique as you.

My mission is to guide my clients in finding a true and unique style that will help them feel self-confident and have a positive attitude. I strongly believe that to find your own style you need to embrace your personal journey and story. featured in

hello@sofialujansyling.com | 919.578.7831 sofialujanstyling.com | @sofialujanstyling

74 | midtownmag.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 75

DEPARTMENT STYLE

FLORENCE’S FINEST

BY KYLE MARIE MCMAHON STYLING BY SOFIA LUJAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA BRATTON

How Rangoni Firenze brings Italian craftsmanship and a warm, community spirit to Raleigh

T

ucked away in Raleigh’s Village District, Rangoni Firenze is a slice of Italian craftsmanship with a heart for the local community. For nine years, manager Edna Kovitz has been the welcoming face of the brand, offering Raleighites a unique blend of timeless style, exceptional quality, and a personalized shopping experience. We recently spoke with Kovitz following the store’s successful fall fashion show to discuss the inspiration behind the new designs, the legacy of the Rangoni family, and what makes her Raleigh boutique so special.

76 | midtownmag.com

Midtown: The store recently

spritzes and light bites from

hosted a fashion show with Sofia

CapriFlavors.

Lujan. Could you describe the

Joey Napierkowski with Joseph

atmosphere of the event, and

William Interiors and Events oversaw

what it was like seeing the new

the details for the event. From

collection presented in that way?

building a platform runway with a

EDNA KOVITZ: The atmosphere was

teal cheetah print carpet and bringing

amazing! Our guests enjoyed

in a bar and furniture from Nadeau

mingling and browsing the new fall

Furniture, to hanging a beautiful

collection while enjoying Aperol

painting by large-scale artist Jenny

Rangoni is a third-generation family business. How does that rich history of “Made in Italy” craftsmanship influence the quality and feel of the shoes in the store today?

EK: Ugo Rangoni started making shoes in 1934. His son Niccolo Rangoni took over the company at the age of 18 upon his father’s death. The Rangoni family has three daughters, two of whom— Carolina and Valentina—are already in the family business. The younger daughter, Beatrice, will most likely join the business once she finishes school.

They take pride in their rich family heritage of making high-quality Italian shoes. The shoes are handcrafted in their own factory in Florence, Italy. A lot of love and detail can be felt in the shoes they craft.

As a third-generation designer, how does Valentina Rangoni balance honoring the brand’s classic tradition while introducing her own modern perspective?

Fassino as a backdrop for our seated model, Joey took care of everything.

He even brought his lively personality to the stage as our emcee for the show.

Sofia Lujan did her magic styling for our models with fashions from Mode Consignment and Deni (an up-and-coming luxury brand of sustainable adjustable clothing). I knew when I told Sofia I was having a fashion show and she offered to help, the models would be demonstrating great ways of styling the shoes.

hardware that she used on the fall/ winter collection was inspired by looking at raindrops. Her latest inspiration came from her recent wedding. Her new line that will carry brides from the altar to the dance floor has just launched.

Speaking of the new fall collection, what are some of the key themes or inspirations behind Valentina Rangoni’s latest designs?

EK: Her little comma-shaped block heel with a pointed toe is a favorite.

It’s low and stable, but very sophisticated and elegant. Even people who aren’t typically fans of pointed shoes are surprised to find these shoes very comfortable.

EK: Valentina often gets her inspiration from nature and her travels. The little droplet-shaped

Are there one or two standout styles from the new collection that you and your customers are particularly excited about? What makes them special?

EK: Valentina learned the art of making quality shoes from her father and later received a university degree in shoe design. The original Amali brand is a more classic line. Valentina saw the need to design a line that would draw on a younger audience, and started designing her own line in 2016. Her Valentina line is becoming increasingly more popular among designers and the shoe world. She was recently published in Footwear Plus as being Florence’s Finest.

You’re on the front lines interacting with customers every day. In your experience, what is it about a Rangoni shoe that creates such loyal followers, and what makes the company itself so special to represent?

EK: It’s the styles, comfort, and quality of the shoes. I feel honored to manage NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 | 77

one of their six stores in the U.S. I’ve been the manager of the Raleigh store for nine years. Of course, everyone can order online, but we offer more. Not only do we provide good service, but beyond that we strive to make our customers feel at home, and to give [them] a unique and enjoyable quality experience that they will remember us

by. Sometimes it’s just sitting down having conversations and sharing stories with a beverage, and sometimes it’s live music with food and wine.

We’ve even hosted a Saturday morning toe yoga class! We like partnering with the community and helping others out. We’re always open to working with others for events.

PAGE 76, TOP TO BOTTOM: These Oste loafers with gold accents are part of Rangoni’s classic Amalfi line. A model sports Valentina Rangoni’s Limpida Tall Tubular Boot in Cerise Cashmere while sitting in front of artwork by Jenny Fassino during the Raleigh store’s fall fashion show.

PAGE 77: Valentina Rangoni’s Lea Mesh Sling, offered in multiple color varieties.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Store manager Edna Kovitz tells the audience about the fall collection at the end of the fashion show.

Emcee Joey Napierkowski and stylist Sofia Lujan. Models show off the new shoe collection with local clothing items styled by Sofia Lujan.

78 | midtownmag.com

PODCAST VIDEO STUDIO MARKETING PHOTOGRAPHY

marketingisstorytelling.com

D E PA RT M E N T K A L E I D O S C O P E

BY CHARLOTTE RUSSELL

LAYERS OF MEMORY: THE TRANSFORMATIVE ART OF LYNDA STUART CURRY Carrboro-based artist Lynda Stuart Curry merges her dual practices as a professional downsizer and visual artist to explore themes of memory, psychology, nature, and healing. For Curry, process and introspection are inseparable from the final artwork.

In works like MOLT, 2024, Curry begins by photographing personally significant landscapes across North Carolina and beyond. She then digitally sketches over these images, creating layered compositions that serve as meditative blueprints. On canvas, she translates the photographs into grayscale forms before overlaying bold, graphic color fields and gestural marks. This interplay of photographic structure and abstract energy reflects her engagement with Qigong, an energy cultivation practice, suggesting the transformation of memory into renewed vitality.

The resulting paintings evoke the hazy contours of recollection— faded, yet charged with new energy. Through this process, Curry invites viewers to consider not only what is remembered, but how the act of remembering can become a form of release.

View more of Curry’s work on her website lyndastuartcurry.com, on Instagram @lyndacurrystudio, and in True Blue, a group exhibition at Light Art+Design in Chapel Hill, which is on view through December 2025. Her work is available for purchase through Light Art+Design, Oneoneone in Chapel Hill, and Peel in Carrboro.

CONNECT, 2024, Acrylic + Flashe, 60” x 72”

OVERLAP, 2022, Acrylic on canvas, 60” x 72”

“I am interested in what we hold on to as memories and the psychological aspect of why we hold on to them. Growing up, we moved quite a bit around the Southeast, so constantly packing and releasing stuff was part of my childhood.”

— Lynda Stuart Curry 80 | midtownmag.com

MOLT, 2024, Acrylic + Flashe, 26” x 32”

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Sales & Marketing by Christina Valkanoff Realty Group This is not an offer to sell but is intended for information only. The developer reserves the right to make modifications in materials, specifications, plans, designs, scheduling, pricing, and delivery of the homes without prior notice. Entrance rendering is for illustrative purposes only and subject to change.