QC Exclusive No 71 - 2020 - Issue 8 - The Thankful Issue

The Quintessential Charlotte Luxury Magazine

thankful Fall destinations you have to see to believe, Carolina mountain towns we love, the region's best national parks, our favorite things to do in Charlotte this autumn, tasty Queen City food, sophisticated design from the area's best, and so much more.

NO. 71

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FA L L 2 0 2 0

INDEPENDENCE 20 Limited Edition - 200 Pieces

Manufacture Calibre NN20/1 70-hour Power Reserve Chronometer Certified 4+1 Year International Warranty

Charlotte’s Finest Men’s Cut Expertly Trained Stylists Masculine Refinements Internationally Recognized Award Winning Products

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L o c a t e d a t 2 2 2 S o u t h C a l d w e l l S t r e e t , 2 1 s t F l o o r, C h a r l o t t e , N C

R E S TA U R A N T

.

BAR

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. SPECIAL EVENTS

w w w. f a h r e n h e i t c h a r l o t t e . c o m

R OOFTOP

NHEIT OFF - S I TE CAT ERIN G

INTRODUCING

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Your home is more than a building or an address. It’s where you

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Asheville | Banner Elk | Blowing Rock | Charlotte | Lake Norman | Linville Ridge Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

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dwellnova.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

N O . 7 1 / FA L L 2 0 2 0

The Exclusives — 107

Shifting Seasons Our favorite Blue Ridge destinations to visit in the fall.

110

An Ode To The National Parks Service Explore ten beautiful National Parks and Forests right here in the Carolinas.

114

Mountain Charm Experience small town Appalachia with these NC mountain destinations this fall.

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All About Autumn Enjoy fall in the Queen City with some of our favorite things to do in the Charlotte metro area.

This photo and cover photo by Jamey Price.

THE DEPA RTMEN TS

THE CULTURE ARTS, STYLE, AND WELLNESS

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Mural Magic Duarte Designs is transforming Charlotte.

Diamonds That Dazzle Donald Haack Diamonds bedecks Charlotte.

Arm In Arm New music from the Steep Canyon Rangers.

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44 THE SPREAD FOOD AND DRINK

59

Home Away From Home Goodyear House brings elevated home cooking to the local NoDa community.

Sharp Design & Calming Nature Kara Hollinger's agency Made Outside.

Southern Sophistication OMJ Clothing defines timelessness and quality in a new era of change.

50

Be Kind To Your Body BK Pilates opens in Charlotte’s South End.

70 35

“If you are passionate about it, you can make anything happen.”

64

Appalachian Inspired Optimist Hall is the new location of Fonta Flora, a brewery that mixes Belgian brewing with North Carolina flavors.

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Leah & Louise’s Black Cowboys Deliciousness at Camp North End

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Harriet's Hamburgers Our new favorite burger is at Optimist Hall

72

Little Mama's Lavencelo Martini Tasty cocktails at the new Italian restaurant

74

Stir's Old Fashioned A classic libation in South End

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59

62

ESCAPE

TO

LOWCOUNTRY

A memorable vacation year after year, tailored just to your tastes and a new oceanfront home that takes care of you (not the other way around).

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Welcome to Lowcountry living in high style.

Kiawah’s most exclusive and only private residence club with fractional ownership invites you to stop by and visit.

3000 Souther n Pines L ane, Kiawah Island , SC TimbersKiawah.com/Q C | 843.371.5277 This advertisement does not constitute an offer to sell nor the solicitation of an offer to purchase made in any jurisdiction nor made to residents of any jurisdiction, including New York, where registration is required and applicable registration requirements are not fully satisfied. Timbers Kiawah Acquisition Partner, LLC uses the Timbers Resort,® Timbers Collection® and certain other Timbers brand names under a limited non-transferable license in connection with the sales and marketing of the Timbers Kiawah Ocean Club & Residences (the “Project”). If this license is terminated or expires without renewal, the Project will no longer be identified with nor have any right to use the Timbers® marks and names. All renderings depicted in this advertisement are illustrative only and may be changed at any time. All rights reserved.

TIMBERS COLLECTION l Aspen l Bachelor Gulch l Cabo San Lucas l Jupiter l Kaua‘i l Kiawah Island l Maui l Napa l Scottsdale l Snowmass l Sonoma l Southern California l Steamboat l Tuscany l U.S. Virgin Islands l Vail

THE DEPA RTMEN TS

104

THE FOLIO HOME AND DESIGN

77

A Blend Of Luxury And Comfort Kendra White explores intricate and elegant design with Pheasant Hill Design.

84

A Modern Retreat A gorgeous space from Dipped Interiors.

86

Dining with the designer A kitchen a dining area from Ashley J Design.

THE EXPLORED TRAVEL AND SPORTING

92

Relax In The Valley A timeless treasure of Valle Crucis peacefully nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains.

104

80 “A good designer should be able to guide you through the process while still making it fun!”

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A Window Inside Gorgeous work from Window And Door Pros.

90

A Kitchen Enhanced Industry leading products at Sub-Zero Wolf.

92

Cultivating Community Peek inside the luxury Lombardy Circle condominiums from home builder Simonini.

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99

Discover The High Country Boone, NC, one of our favorite Appalachian mountain towns, offers an amazing outdoor experience and an up-andcoming cultural environment.

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THE NOTE

No. 71

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all in the Carolinas may just be my favorite. I've always loved the summertime spent on wild creeks in the Blue Ridge chasing native trout or on Lake Norman sipping beers and enjoying sunsets. Lately though I've been feeling almost giddy about fall: afterall, I can still do those things, it's just even prettier outside.

In the city, there's a special feeling in the air and a glow on Uptown's skyline. In the mountains, the temps cool and the leaves get so colorful. Unlike other places I've been where it seems this season passes so quickly, the vibrant reds and oranges and yellows last a little longer here. They start turning in early October at 6,000-feet plus elevations like Mt. Mitchell near Asheville and last through late November on the shores of Piedmont lakes, a true sight to behold and something I'm really thankful for. Down east on the NC coast and in the Lowcountry of SC, during these months beach weather is about as perfect as it gets. Gone are the humid summer days, replaced with upper-70s delight.

Traditions abound too, from apple pickin' to hay rides to pumpkin carving. Then turkey day comes with all the fixins and family.

It doesn't get much better than that. So, in honor of the most colorful time of the year, we wanted to share all the things we love, make us happy, and remind us how lucky we truly are to be in Charlotte and the Carolinas this time of year. In the following pages you'll find our favorite fall destinations in the Blue Ridge, the National Parks and Forests in the Carolinas you have to visit, our favorite fall Charlotte activities, and much more.

Also, if traveling our two great states and exploring all of the hidden gems our region has to offer is something that you really enjoy, we'd like to mention that we just launched a new social media account — @discoverthecarolinas — on Instagram and TikTok that we think you'll love. It's dedicated to the towns, hotels, hikes, adventures, photography, and much more that our area has to offer. We hope you'll come along on our journey as we tour our favorite place in the world — the Carolinas. Until next issue, we hope you enjoy!

Sincerely, Jon-Paul Grice, Editor Brett Barter, Publisher

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D E S I G N

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OUR TEAM PUBLISHER Brett Barter ART DIRECTOR Jon-Paul Grice EDITOR Sunny Hubler EDITORIAL Liza Carrasquillo Eleanor Merrell EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Sam Husted Jeannette Jones Gia Lash Gina McCallie Wilhem Diehl Ellie Barker Kiran Wheeler PHOTOGRAPHY Jamey Price

RETRACTIONS We failed to credit Chad Whittington as photographer in an article in our 2020 Issue No. 6 on the Dilworth Tasting Room's Strawberry Daiquiri on pg. 68. We would like to give him the credit he deserves. Amazing cocktail and photo Chad!

We also failed to credit Tiffany Ringwald as the photographer in an article in our 2020 Issue No. 7 on Kelly Cruz entitled "Attention To Detail" on pg 73. We want to give her the credit she deserves. Beautiful images Tiffany!

CONNECT @QCExclusive

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T H E C U LT U R E

M U R A L M AGIC Duarte Designs is transforming Charlotte’s blank spaces. words SAM HUSTED / photos JAMEY PRICE or courtesy DUARTE DESIGNS

FALL 2020 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 27

The Culture // Musings

B

By now, you may have heard of her. Over the past few years, Sydney Duarte has successfully catapulted herself onto the Charlotte scene with her yoga and lifestyle brand, The Traveling Gypsy. Now, alongside her mother Ann, the yogi has launched a new venture that’s coming to a street near you.

The mother-daughter duo are the leading ladies behind Duarte Designs, a mural business dedicated to transforming the Queen City’s blank spaces. Perhaps their most recognized mural lives on the side of Two Scoops Creamery in Plaza Midwood. It depicts Sydney enjoying an ice cream cone with the quote, “You can’t make everyone happy, you’re not ice cream. Do the things that light you up and everything else will fall into place.”

According to Sydney, Duarte Designs was created out of necessity. After years of working corporate jobs, the women felt that their innate artistic abilities were dwindling. Instead of succumbing to this fate, Ann and Sydney decided to do something about it: Together, they left the corporate world and followed their joint passions.

Sydney sat down with us to discuss Duarte Designs, her yoga business, and everything in between.

“We both give all of our heart into everything that we do, and it’s been fun to challenge ourselves and lift each other up through each project.”

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Tell us what it’s like collaborating with your mother.

It’s been a roller coaster ride so far. Many lessons learned, lots of laughter, some crying, and endless creative brainstorming to turn dreams into reality! Owning a business is fun and exciting, but also a lot of hard work. Communication is key in anything that you do, and we’ve had to take several deep dives into understanding each other on a deeper level. We both give all of our heart into everything that we do, and it’s been fun to challenge ourselves and lift each other up through each project that we’ve taken on so far.

When did you decide to create Duarte Designs? How did the idea come to be?

Mother’s Day 2019, I was admiring my mom guiding my niece through different shading techniques as they were drawing mermaids together. She’s always talked about teaching classes and taking her skills to the next level And the idea popped into my head for us to collaborate together. We had both been in different corporate jobs for many years and the more years that passed, the more I watched her artistic side fade away.

I suggested painting a mural together and it kind of exploded from there!

Where do you draw your inspiration for the pieces of art you two make?

Inspiration for most of our pieces come from the folks we encounter along our journey of life; the good-hearted, kind, loving people who are doing good out in the world. We want to help bring their light to you so that you can experience them in the way that we experience them. They are painted in black-and-

The Culture // Musings

white so that there is no race, only love, and everyone that comes in contact with them can resonate in some way — to see a piece of themselves within the artwork.

Your other venture, the Traveling Gypsy, focuses on yoga, healthy lifestyle, and travel. Tell us about your passion for yoga and how that relates to your passion for art?

We truly appreciate you!

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Follow along on our journey on Instagram at @qcexclusive

Yes! The Traveling Gypsy’s motto is adventure, wellness, and oneness. My passion for yoga is all about healing others and giving them the loving encouragement and power to connect with their minds and bodies. Art and yoga intertwine by bringing community together and sparking inspiration and healing within everyone that comes in contact with it all.

What kind of message are you hoping to spread with your murals?

Duarte Designs was created to spread positive messages through our original pieces. Our pieces are meant to spark thought and help you stop, stand here, and breathe in all the things that make you feel grateful for this life.

Can we expect to see more Duarte Designs murals popping up anywhere else around Charlotte anytime soon?

We have many more pieces all around town (Charlotte, Concord, Cornelius/ Lake Norman area) lined up for 2020.

We’re so honored to be a part of the fabric of this city and grateful for all of the wonderful people here. Charlotte, we love you. info thetravelinggypsy.org @duarte_designs

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The Culture // Music

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ARM IN ARM The Steep Canyon Rangers release new music just in time for fall. words SUNNY HUBLER / photo courtesy STEEP CANYON RANGERS by JOSHUA MOORE

Steep Canyon Rangers Arm In Arm released October 16 on Yep Roc Records. “Every River,” the second track from their thirteenth studio album, is available through all digital service providers.

The Steep Canyon Rangers officially formed in the fall of 1999, when most of the band’s founding members were students and friends at UNC Chapel Hill. As musicians, Graham Sharp, Charles Humphrey, and Mike Guggino arrived in the bluegrass genre at the same moment. Sharp had sustained a soccer careerending knee injury and traded his cleats for a banjo. Lead singer and guitarist Woody Platt was getting the hang of guitar as Humphrey was exploring the upright bass. And Guggino had just sold his saxophone and electric guitar to purchase a mandolin.

“At the outset, it was just a fun hobby,” recalls Platt. “We played a lot of covers, but as soon as we called ourselves a band we started writing our own songs.”

The Steep Canyon Rangers have always stood out in the bluegrass genre. They attracted the attention of actor and musician Steve Martin in 2009 and soon began touring with him. Together,

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they released two collaborative albums. Shortly thereafter, the band’s solo album Nobody Knows You won a Grammy award for Best Bluegrass Album.

Now, the band plays around 100 shows annually, in addition to hosting their own annual fundraiser, the Mountain Song Festival in Brevard, and volunteering extensively for nonprofits serving underprivileged youth.

Arm in Arm, an 11-song set was recorded at Southern Ground Studios in Nashville, the first time the Grammy-winning group has stepped outside of their home state to record. The LP “sees the band expanding their sound by paying homage to their early influences and the bluegrass tradition for which they’re known,” according to a band statement released recently.

Steep Canyon Rangers also announced a trio of late August drive-in concerts in North Carolina. Find more info, tickets, and buy the new album on the SCR website today. info steepcanyon.com / @steepcanyonrangers

The Culture // Creative

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SH A R P DESIGN & CA L M I NG NAT U R E

Kara Hollinger of Made Outside incorporates her love of the outdoors in her design agency. words and interview JEANNET TE JONES portraits JAMEY PRICE / photos of work courtesy MADE OUTSIDE / photos of NED JIMENA PECK

Kara Hollinger has a strong bond with the outdoors.

“That is where my best ideas have always come to me,” she says. “Whether at a park or greenway in town, hiking trails, or paths to waterfalls in Western North Carolina, ocean shores, trout filled rivers, or breathtaking spots overseas. I always find time to be outside.”

That love for the outdoors has easily flowed into Made Outside, a branding agency started by Kara. Focusing on food, hospitality, and wellness, Made Outside helps businesses

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express their brand strongly and make a lasting connection with customers. Kara’s relationship with the outdoors deeply resonates within Made Outside. From its name to the percentage donated at the end of each year to Open Outdoors for Kids, a foundation that helps kids experience the outdoors through activities and experiential learning.

As Kara shows with her designs, there’s much to learn from simply taking a step outside and absorbing everything nature has to offer.

The Culture // Creative

“If you are passionate about it, you can make anything happen.”

I thrive off seeing products or places that appear like nothing special and turning them into something connecting and meaningful. Because of this intention I put into my work, I’ve become a trusted resource and partner for clients. Most of my clients have been following me since I started my first design business back in 2003. In a world of false marketing, being authentic always has helped me stand out.

What is the formula for success in branding?

Being authentic is always number one. Too many brands try to be what they think people want, but it’s not who they are and consumers can see this.

It’s changing though and one of the most important things to consider in the next five years is one of our biggest mantras.

What is your brand doing to give back or help drive change to our community, environment, or help others? Consumers will start demanding conscious choices soon and we are helping clients navigate this change.

What is the inspiration behind Made Outside’s storytelling style?

I believe all consumers are looking to connect: To your brand, your offerings, your background, your benefits, etc. The fastest way to connect to your consumer is to get to know them. So we always aim to understand what the consumer wants and tell the client’s story in a way that’s authentic and unique to them. The visuals are what comes the most natural. I love the power of design, textures, colors, typography, photography, and well-written brand stories and believe each brand has their own unique look and feel.

How has growing up with your mother’s design business influenced your work today?

My mother is one of the most talented and resourceful people I know. She can create beauty out of the most average things and I have learned to soak up a similar ability through design. The challenge of taking something that isn’t connecting to people and creating something beautiful brings joy to me.

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What is the most rewarding part of being in your industry?

I am a big manifester so by nature I love building and creating new brands. Especially when it’s my own! This is my third business and each time I am turned on by the building process. Studying what’s working and what isn’t. What does the market need and what are consumers craving today? What has worked with our clients in the past and where can we improve ourselves to service them better? What is an old thought process that needs reconsidered? How do we craft our new message and what is the story we want to tell?

What advice would you give someone interested in starting a business?

If you are passionate about it, you can make anything happen.

Dream big, visualize, believe it, and it will come if you put the hard work in. Make sure you are able to tell your story effectively and hire us to build you a killer brand. info madeoutside.com / @wearemadeoutside

The Culture // Jewelry

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DI A MON DS T H AT DA ZZL E Donald Haack Diamonds bedecks Charlotte. words ELEANOR MERRELL

At Donald Haack Diamonds, design is personal. This high-end jewelry store, now located in SouthPark after 15 years in Uptown Charlotte, puts as much effort into getting to know their customers as they put into designing their products.

The Donald Haack staff tracks customer wish lists and familiarizes themselves with customers’ styles. As a result,

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photos JAMEY PRICE

they are able to offer highly personalized recommendations and custom design birthday gifts, anniversary gifts, and more with the recipient in mind.

In fact, the majority of clients are either repeat customers or referral customers. “When our buyers are proud of their purchases and the receiver is happy with the gift, they tell their friends and family,” explains President Julie Haack.

The Culture // Jewelry

The key to starting a quality jewelry collection is to invest in pieces that are well made and priced fairly. Well-made pieces will not just hold their value, but often they increase in value over time, especially diamonds, which should be well-cut, higher color, higher clarity, and have a large carat weight.

Donald Haack Diamonds also knows that the value of a piece of jewelry extends beyond its monetary worth. “Jewelry is not just about finding a well made piece for a fair price,” says Julie.

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“The factor that makes jewelry so special is the reason why it’s purchased — love, anniversary, birthday, graduation, promotion, babies…all the important things we celebrate in life. When gifted with a jewelry item, you remember that occasion each time you put it on.”

Customers can expect to have a lifelong relationship with Donald Haack Diamonds, since the company offers to clean or refurbish any original piece once each year, free of charge.

The Culture // Jewelry

“The factor that makes jewelry so special is the reason why it’s purchased—love, anniversary, birthday, graduation, promotion, babies… all the important things we celebrate in life.”

Besides that, Donald Haack Diamonds only works with designers they know and trust, designers that offer top tier workmanship and quality. Customers quickly learn to trust that, whether they’re purchasing a custom design, Donald Haack original, or retail piece, they are investing in something that will last lifetimes. Of course, any piece may need design updates as fashion evolves. That’s why Donald Haack also offers redesigns, ensuring that pieces can carry on in the family, generation after generation.

From engagement rings to fashion jewelry, the selection at Donald Haack Diamonds is for the discerning shopper seeking original pieces or quality-made, classic jewelry to add to their curated collections. info donaldhaack.com / @dhaackdiamonds

karenkettlerdesign.com

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luxur y kitchens and bathrooms

Timeless Designs, Thoughtfully Crafted Lake Norman • Charlotte • Charleston • Banner Elk

Luxury Homes & Designs Since 1989 www.esjohnson.com/QC (704) 987-7950

The Culture // Style

SOU T H ER N SOPH ISTICATION

T

OMJ Clothing defines timelessness and quality in a new era of change. words GIA L ASH / photos courtesy OMJ CLOTHING or by JAMEY PRICE

To you, a mason jar may be no more than a vessel for your morning coffee or a place to store some homemade jam. To Filipe Ho and Bradley Rhyne, however, it represents so much more.

As the two North Carolina natives began to envision their lifestyle and clothing brand, they wanted to pay homage to simplicity, timelessness, and their Southern roots.

Reflecting on these values, they remembered the way their

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grandparents stored vegetables, and knew they had found their brand. The mason jar captured these characteristics for them, and Ole Mason Jar was born.

Founded in South End in 2013, OMJ Clothing has established itself as one of Charlotte’s most versatile luxury brands. With a relaxed approach to custom suit fittings, they’ve transformed an item on a to-do list into an enjoyable experience for men of all ages.

2173 HAWKINS ST. UNIT G • CHARLOTTE, NC • 704.819.6972 • ALI@COUTUREKNOTS.COM @COUTUREKNOT • WWW.COUTUREKNOTS.COM • BY APPOINTMENT TO THE TRADE

The Culture // Style

With a clear commitment to quality and fit, and transparency about sourcing and production, OMJ is setting the standard for luxury wear. From ties that are handsewn by second and third generation seamstresses in North Carolina, to shirts produced in the finest Italian mills, you can be sure that there is care taken in every stage of production. The vast majority of their products are handmade in North Carolina, keeping local industry thriving.

OMJ offers a special approach to wedding suits, first consulting with the bride and groom about colors and

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styles to match their vision. The groomsmen join in on the fun at the next appointment, getting fitted for their suits, and enjoying the process with a glass of bourbon in hand.

Most importantly, OMJ’s team is there to ensure that both sides of the altar feel and look their best on the big day.

In quick response to their customer’s needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ole Mason Jar began using deadstock fabric from their suits and dress shirts to make face masks in early May. With stylish plaid, denim, and gingham designs, OMJ encourages health and safety in the community they serve.

The Culture // Style

know you’re You going places. you want a Now school to help you get there. .

At Saint Mary’s School, whether you’re on campus or distance learning, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant high school experience. Our innovative curriculum and real-world learning opportunities let you explore new ideas and interests in a community that values and respects your unique voice and talents. You want to better understand the world and your place in it. We can help.

Find what you need at sms.edu/myplace

Ole Mason Jar isn’t confined to the world of luxury formalwear, however. They started their more casual line, OMJ, to create stylish, everyday pieces influenced by the Charlotte area. Many of their pieces include a nod to the Queen City, in the depiction of a skyline, the nickname “bank city,” or the Charlotte airport code, “CLT,” proving that luxury can be an everyday thing, too. info olemasonjar.com / @omjclothing

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Karen Hollingsworth

Citrus 20x16 Oil on Canvas

Shain Gallery | 2823 Ë™ Avenue, Suite K | Charlotte NC 28209 704-334-7744 | www.shaingallery.com

The Culture // Wellness

BE K I N D TO YOU R BODY

M

BK Pilates opens in Charlotte’s South End. words SUNNY HUBLER / photos JAMEY PRICE

Meredith Opsahl is a bright, blonde-haired, energetic force.

In February 2020, the Pilates instructor, owner, and former advertising sales exec opened the doors of boutique studio BK Pilates in Charlotte’s South End. She’d just landed from New York City, where Meredith and Marina Kaydanova, the founder of BK Pilates NYC, met.

This is the first franchise studio outside of the Big Apple, where Kaydanova has five other locations. Through a series of life events and major decisions, Meredith took the BK Pilates workouts with her to the South, introducing a style that’s all about alignment and slow, controlled movements for tone, endurance, and good posture.

BK Pilates, housed in an intimate, airy, walkable location, displays a careful attention to healthful movement under the tag line: Be Kind to your Body.

Their average class currently is 45 minutes and most often delivers a challenging, low-impact full body workout.

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Photo by Charlotte Drone Company

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The Culture // Wellness

“Get creative, get inquisitive, get curious and get building!

It's a lot of work but it's worth every minute.”

Tell us about your average client and who BK is right for.

Our clients need to have a body (as we all do!), and then we’ll adjust accordingly to that person’s own goals. Many of our clients are brand-new to Pilates and the reformer machine [a device, similar to a bed-like frame, invented by Pilates founder Joseph Pilates]. There really is no average client, because Pilates is a movement and a lifestyle. We want our clients to achieve their personal and movement goals: If it’s toning up, working on balance, working on losing weight... [it all can] happen with consistency and balance.

Meredith, when did your love of fitness begin?

I think my love of fitness really has existed throughout my entire life. I was a ballet dancer as a kid, then a gymnast and cheerleader my entire childhood. It moved into Pilates after I graduated from college in 2009. I was living in Hoboken, NJ and working in corporate America. I tried a small, local studio and was hooked.

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The Culture // Wellness

“Pilates is a movement and a lifestyle. We want our clients to achieve their goals: If it’s toning up, working on balance, working on losing weight... [it all can] happen with consistency and balance.”

How did you and Marina [BK’s founder] meet and decide to work together?

When I moved to New York City in 2012, I searched for Pilates studios close to my house in Chelsea, and stumbled upon BK Pilates on 25th and Lexington. The rest is history: I was hooked as a client and really loved the way Marina connected with clients and her teaching style; not to mention, the way I felt after leaving her classes. We had a lot of similarities and became nice friends over time.

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Marina, tell us about business ownership in NYC and about transitioning into the Charlotte market.

NYC is a very competitive but very rewarding city. If you can make it there, you can make it anywhere! My goal was to build a happy place where no one is intimidated and everyone is included and feels cared for, all while achieving their mind and body goals. By slowly opening one studio a year, I built a beautiful, diverse community that felt like family. And now, as Meredith has brought the brand to Charlotte, I walk into a class here and it also feels like home.

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The Culture // Wellness

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We have to ask: Meredith, tell us about opening a business in 2020.

It has been one the most rewarding and challenging years of my entire life. We opened the studio in February, and while other curve balls were thrown my way this year with moving and settling into a new life, closing a business after six weeks of it being opened was surely not anticipated. I won't beat a dead horse, but the process was challenging. But it also was really fun to me, to get creative, get inquisitive, get curious, and get building! It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth every minute.

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FOOD AND DRINK

T H E S PR E A D

HOM E AWAY F ROM HOM E The Goodyear House brings elevated home cooking to the local NoDa community. words LIZA CARRASQUILLO / photos JAMEY PRICE

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The Spread // Eatery

N

North Davidson is an eclectic neighborhood brimming with both artistic flair and rich history. Originally an early 1900’s mill town, NoDa has evolved into a thriving, creative space for everything from music to drinks. Goodyear House aims to honor the area’s roots while contributing to its vibrant food scene.

“I’m a transplant from Michigan and have always felt welcomed by NoDa,” says Goodyear House owner AJ Klenk. “Its people are welcoming, team-oriented, ambitious, inspired and community-minded… That kind of built-in character is impossible to recreate and really sets NoDa up well for sustained long-term success.”

The Goodyear House is an aptly named restaurant born out of a renovated mill house. “Each room or area has a unique feel and vibe,” says head chef and restaurant partner Chris Coleman, who honed his skills in part at various local restaurants Stoke, The Asbury, and the McNinch House before helping open Goodyear. “It keeps the restaurant cozy and comfortable instead of grand and opulent. Postcards and knick-knacks adorn our walls and shelves and are reminiscent of how a family would decorate their homes.”

Every room in the gorgeous restaurant is designed to look as if a homeowner from a particular era decorated it. When you enter the space, the front room features church pews

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from the 1920s, while the main bar has old Jeep Renegade seat covers from the 1970s. As a restaurant that embodies the community-centric feeling that’s been part of NoDa for decades, Goodyear House does its best to make its patrons feel at home.

“The idea of a Goodyear House is a home that grows and lives and breathes with the family inside of its walls,” says Coleman. “We all strive to make the place we reside an extension of ourselves… we’ve taken a structure that has been in the same place for over a century, breathed new life into it, and hopefully created the best version of itself it can be.”

The Spread // Eatery

That version involves community outreach and of course, good food. While the menu at Goodyear House might seem simple at first glance, its flavors are anything but.

“In essence, we are taking dishes that one would eat at home and elevating them for a true restaurant experience,” notes Coleman. “Our menu consists of locally sourced produce, sustainably raised proteins, and the freshest seafood our coasts and mountain streams have to offer.”

In addition to their elevated home-cooked meals, Goodyear House is focusing on curating a robust drink menu complete with craft cocktails and hand-chosen wines and beers.

Because the eatery is dedicated to benefiting the local community, locals can also expect to see a healthy number of live events and philanthropic programs.

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“It may sound corny, but we really want to make a difference and give back,” says Klenk. “We feel fortunate to be in the position where we can have a potentially significant impact on others… We have a 501c3 non-profit that’s in process called Goodyear Giving where we plan to focus charitable efforts on both local and international causes.”

Goodyear House always welcomes new ideas for charitable work, as well as ambitious talent looking to join a dedicated culinary team.

info thegoodyearhousecharlotte.com @goodyearhouse

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The Spread // Tastemaker

F

A PPA L ACH I A N I NSPI R ED Optimist Hall is the new location of Fonta Flora, a brewery that mixes Belgian brewing with North Carolina flavors. words GINA MCCALLIE / photos JAMEY PRICE

Fonta Flora is the newest addition to the Charlotte beer scene and they have brought their artisan Appalachian-flora inspired brews with them. With two other locations at Whippoorwill Farm and Morganton, Fonta Flora is excited to create a new hot-spot gathering place at Optimist Hall that mixes Belgian brewing inspirations and North Carolina flora flavors. Fonta Flora combines art to the regular brewing process by utilizing local artists in creating art out of the medium of fermentation. This unique process brings the Charlotte community closer by uniting brews and artists.

Head of Brewing Operations Todd Boera has answered some of our questions about their goals for the community, their inspiration and what’s next for Fonta Flora.

What motivated you to open a taproom at Optimist Hall?

The original concept for starting Fonta Flora Brewery was centered around it being a community gathering place that also happened to make world class beers. For years, we noticed a great deal of tourism to our original location in Morganton, specifically from the Charlotte area. The goal was to create the same community gathering space in a market that had been supporting us for years.

You are known for your “artisan approach” to craft brewing, what does that mean to you?

We employ many archaic methods to create our beers. By designing equipment to allow us to brew with unique ingredients, we are able to offer truly one-of-a-kind beers.

For us, everything is hands on and we put so much attention to detail into all of our beers. I think early on, folks associated us with “weird” beers from our love of unique botanicals. Though we still make plenty botanically inspired beers, we also have a

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fine lager program. In fact, most of our beer production currently consists of lagers, something I never thought I would see happen. But even with our lager program, we are giving these beers 6-8 weeks of fermentation and lagering, which is certainly not commonplace. And from there, we are utilizing old world techniques such as decoction mashing and spunding and/or krausening these beers during fermentation. The long and short of it is that we take a lot of pride in how we create our beers.

How do the Flora and Belgian tradition and flavors inspire Fonta Flora’s craft beers?

For us, our most intimate “ah-ha!” moments in beer all came from Belgian brewing tradition. Those were the first styles of beer that totally blew us away and still do. Though we don’t brew as many Belgian-style beers as we used to, those techniques and concepts are always

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The Spread // Tastemaker at work. With the addition of a coolship a few years back, we have been brewing our interpretation of the Belgian-style lambic.

Those blends will start being released in the next few years.

Do you source from local vendors?

All of the fruit, grains and botanicals that we use in our beers is sourced locally. For instance, just this season we purchased 6,000lb of strawberries, 5,000lb of peaches and 2,000lb of plums all from Barbee Farm in Concord.

What is the brewing process like?

First of all, all of our grain that we use is grown and malted in North Carolina.

Along with that, we utilize hard-to-fine varieties of grains to help make our beers truly unique. All of the corn we use in our Lake James series of beers is grown only a few miles down the road from our farmhouse brewery in Nebo, North Carolina.

Most breweries will not use raw corn as it is much more difficult to work with and

requires special equipment. In addition, we have basically invented our own lathes in order to zest fresh citrus that goes into a lot of our beers. tell us what beer means to you.

We believe beer to be sacred. We also believe that beer should represent who we are and where we live. Sort of a snapshot in time. We believe that we have a responsibility to use fresh local ingredients to make our products.

What is in store for the future of Fonta Flora? What can we expect from the Charlotte location?

Our goal, even throughout all of our growth, has honestly not changed one bit.

Our main objective is to continue curating awesome community gathering spaces which provide opportunity to drink our fresh Appalachian-inspired ales and lagers. info fontaflora.com / @fontaflorabrew

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This bite started here.

The Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Showroom will help you create a kitchen that’s uniquely yours. On-site chefs, product experts, and inspiring designs will help you envision the possibilities for your home – and all of the delicious moments to come.

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The Spread // Plated

L E A H & LOU ISE'S

BL ACK COW BOYS words SUNNY HUBLER / photo JAMEY PRICE

Greg and Subrina Collier's new restaurant Leah & Louise in Camp North End is a Mississippi River areainspired eatery that gives a nod to the Colliers’ roots, but with their own well-honed modern twist. Born and raised in Memphis, Greg describes the place known for its history-steeped BBQ as having a flavor profile that's “sweet, smoky, acidic, and salty.”

This dish, known as the “Black Cowboys,” is beef bavette (the French term for flank steak) served with cola boiled peanuts, pickled yams, and a tangy-sweet white beet BBQ sauce. It’s a rich, satisfying, and texturally-interesting plate that’s best topped off with one of the craft cocktails, like their Smoke Sumn whiskey drink.

— info — leahandlouise.com / @leah_and_louise

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The Spread // Plated

H A R R I ET 'S

H A M BU RGER S words SUNNY HUBLER photo JAMEY PRICE

Conveniently located in Optimist Hall, The Plaid Penguin, Papi Queso (another Optimist resident) and Durban Group collectively gave us Harriet’s Hamburgers this year, solving our need in the Southeast for a fine casual hamburger brand of our own.

The cheeseburger is a no-brainer: smashed and griddled, the patty is a signature blend of USDA Premium Black Angus from Creekstone Farms’ genetically verified cattle. The burger is set on a pillowy brioche bun, with melty American cheese, fresh dilled pickles, razor thinned onions, and a finish of smoky sweet heat from HH’s signature sauce.

The answer that came from the HH team’s joint quest to perfect America's favorite sandwich surely doesn’t disappoint. Just don’t forget to add fries!

— info — harrietshamburgers.com @harriets.hamburgers

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The Spread // Poured

L ITT L E M A M A'S

L AV ENCEL LO M A RTI N I words SUNNY HUBLER / photo JAMEY PRICE

If you’ve spent any time in Italy, you know that limoncello is found at nearly every turn.

The lemon liqueur mainly produced in Southern Italy is the star of the show in this martini from the bar team at Little Mama’s. A vodka martini is thought of as “a blank slate” and indeed, the lemon and lavender take the forefront of flavor here.

The Lavencello is made with vodka, lemon-lavender simple syrup, and limoncello. It’s a bright, strong cocktail that pairs perfectly with Little Mama’s menu’s other Italian flavors.

— info — littlemamasitalian.com / @littlemamasitalian

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The Spread // Poured

ST I R'S

OL D FASH ION ED words SUNNY HUBLER / photo JAMEY PRICE

One of the fun things about ordering an old fashioned is that you know what you’ll get and nearly everyone makes ‘em, but there’s usually a little in-house twist you can look forward to, too. STIR’s bar team will hand you an especially stylish looking version of the beverage, with your choice of bourbon and bitters, and dressed with marasca cherries (a sour Morello variety of the fruit) and a fresh orange peel.

— info — stircharlotte.com / @stir_charlotte

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T H E F OL IO

A BL EN D OF LU X U RY AND COM FORT Kendra Tardif White explores intricate and elegant design with Pheasant Hill Designs. words JEANNET TE JONES portraits by JAMEY PRICE photos of work by ERIN COMERFORD

FALL 2020 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 77

The Folio // Foundation

I

It’s a well-constructed space that has the ability to convey who you are. Done right, your personality or attitude can shine through any room in your home, almost expertly from the moment you step into it. No one knows this better than Kendra Tardif White, the skillful designer behind Pheasant Hill Designs.

Her affinity for design began at a young age by playing with her Barbies and Dreamhouse. Her passion hasn’t stopped since and today Kendra designs for the local community, in areas such as Ballantyne, SouthPark, and Myers Park.

Kendra has perfected striking the right balance between elegance and functional, all without compromising on comfort.

Her work has produced some of the most visually stunning designs in the Charlotte area and she seamlessly portrays a client’s desires to create a well-loved space.

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Why did you want to open your own interior design studio?

I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit. While I admire many designers’ work, I felt that placing my personal stamp on things was important to me. Having had experience in corporate America in terms of project management really helped me give our projects organization and workflow. I like to think that while I am pretty much right-brain dominant, there is just enough of the left side to keep things moving smoothly.

What are trends you think will last a long time or have already lasted a while?

I think that living in a more open “free-flowing” space is going to continue to be important to homeowners. People don’t want to be separated by walls in their common living areas. I think that natural light is a lot more important to folks than it used

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The Folio // Foundation

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What would you tell someone hiring a designer for the first time?

One of the most important things would be for you to feel like you’ve connected with the designer (follow your gut) and they have a clear understanding of what your end goal is. A good designer should be able to guide you through the process while still making it fun! You are paying for advice so I recommend listening to your designer; if they feel really strongly about something, they are probably right.

What are the top things you want your designs to achieve for clients?

We want to solve a problem if it’s a remodeling project. We want to add beauty and serenity and allow the home to reflect the homeowner to the best of our ability.

Where do you find new ideas?

Instagram is a fantastic platform to find inspiration! I could spend the entire day going through other creatives’ pages! There is a neverending supply of amazingly creative folks all over this planet.

Instagram delivers them to our doorstep. Also walking through showrooms, whether fabric, tiles, carpet; and making a mental note of things to use on future projects.

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The Folio // Foundation

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What is your favorite type of room to design?

We truly love it all! We feel very blessed to have such variety in our work. If I had to pick just one thing it would probably be kitchen design. Being an avid cook, I love to lay out a kitchen in a logical format but make it beautiful at the same time. Form must follow function.

It doesn’t matter how beautiful a space is: if it doesn’t work effortlessly, it has failed.

Who are some local vendors you work with?

Some of our favs are Walker Zanger, Ferguson, Palmetto Tile, AGM Imports, and Stark Carpets.

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What are your favorite design tips anyone can do?

Incorporating different textures in a design is really critical. What creates interest in a room is mixing things that you might not think to do to create a well thought out feel. Wallpaper has made a huge comeback and we love the impact it can have even in tiny space. Lighting is also a really great way to transform a space... a well-placed sconce or a fantastic chandelier can work wonders! info pheasanthilldesigns.com @kendrapheasanthilldesigns

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The Folio // Vignette

A MODER N R ET R E AT words SUNNY HUBLER / photos TIFFANY RINGWALD

Vicky Little created Dipped Interiors, a style-forward Charlotte boutique and studio that offers interior design, renovation, and new construction services. She unveiled this particular project at the perfect time for the client... right before stay-at-home orders were issued in early spring. There could hardly have been a better place to quarantine.

“Our client wanted to build a guest house on his property for a future mother/mother-in-law suite with an attached garage for his vehicles but since there is no need for mama to move in right now, why not turn the living quarters into a ‘golfers paradise retreat for him and his family and guests to enjoy?” explains Vicky.

The homeowner wanted to continue the Restoration Hardware vibe from his main home into what he now fondly calls his “man cave,” achieved in part through the neutral color

palette and simple, clean furniture.

A slightly unconventional design challenge, this space had to house a golf simulator, putting green, and a fitness area.

Knowing there was potential to convert this into a guest house in the future, too, Dipped also had to make sure it housed a kitchen, full bathroom, and lounge area.

The original garage was torn down to build this larger space, so the team salvaged the old wood ceiling and incorporated it as the feature wall in the entry.

The rugs are Capel, the bathroom floor and the kitchen/ bar backsplash is Daltile, pendants are from Rejuvenation, and the shades are A Shade Above. Don Duffy Architecture served as the architect on this project and Salins Group was the contractor.

— info — dippedinteriors.com / @dippedinteriors

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Sophisticated Design, Personal Approach.

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The Folio // Vignette

DI N I NG W IT H T H E DESIGN ER words LIZ A CARR ASQUILLO / photo MEAGAN L ARSON PHOTOGR APHY

It's not every day a residential building designer lets others take a peek into their personal homes, so seeing inside Ashley Jimenez's home was an exciting opportunity. Ashley Jimenez, owner and lead designer of Ashley J Design, takes pride in bringing passion and grace to every project she works on. These values are apparent in her personal work, too, which is just as distinct, beautiful, and thoughtful as you’d expect.

Her kitchen and dining area house a simple color scheme that contrasts well with the rich hardwood f loors, and the large windows are perfect for letting natural light into the space. Plus, the space is functional, too. As a parent, Jimenez needs a kitchen that's poised for easy cleanup. The open-concept f loor plan makes it easy to reach the living room and the kids' craft room nearby.

— info — ashleyjdesign.com / @ashleyjdesign

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The Folio // Vignette

A W I N DOW I NSI DE words SUNNY HUBLER / photo AMANDA BAGBY, URBAN BUILDING GROUP

Window & Door Pros has been operating as a locallyowned Charlotte business since 1996. The team specializes in crafting historically accurate and architecturally-correct styles for vintage and designer homes, and helps homeowners and contractors select stylish and thoughtfully crafted windows, doors, and hardware to enhance the beauty and character of a home.

This Myers Park traditional home, with its beautiful modern accents, was created to accommodate a growing family that needed more space and wanted to take advantage of their walk-out basement and main floor veranda. The project was put together by Urban Building Group’s Amy Kachin and ASID Ryan Windt, with project management by Richard Reinhart and landscaping by Myron Greer.

Architect Ryan Windt custom designed the stunning front entry, side entries, and rear pool house powder room doors, manufactured by Dallas Millwork of Hiram Georgia. The

casement windows and basement bi-folding doors are Windsor Pinnacle Series and the custom iron doors to the veranda are by Window & Door Pros.

Window & Door Pros GM Mike Howell notes that this home became a showplace for many different types of finishes and details, like the tall putty window muntins and curved lock rail details on the side doors.

“There’s really the perfect harmony of materials, craftsmanship and attention to detail,” he says.

Window & Door Pros can help you select a front door that can become the centerpiece and focal point of your home: something special where the color and hardware can be updated easily, but the style and design are not something you’ll need to update frequently.

“A door is like the perfect pair of jeans or shoes; fit is important, quality is essential, and if you stick with the classics, it’ll last forever and never go out of style.”

— info — windowanddoorpros.com

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The Folio // Statement

A K ITCH EN EN H A NCED words LIZA CARRASQUILLO / photos JAME Y PRICE

Cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones is one of the most fulfilling things anyone can do in their home. As brands dedicated to enhancing kitchens in every way possible, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove understand that.

With industry-leading refrigeration products, Sub-Zero is the go-to choice for coolers, full refrigerators, and even stylish wine storage units. Wolf cooktops, ranges and ovens can take that fresh food and help cook it into something extraordinary.

And once the meal is over? A dishwasher from Cove makes cleaning a breeze. From the first pre-dinner toast to the final bite of dessert, their products can make every stage of cooking easier. Prospective buyers can find their full range of products when they visit the beautiful Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove Showroom in Charlotte.

— info — subzero-wolf.com / @subzerogroup_carolinas

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The Folio // Blueprint

“Our goal in designing this was to create a community that

CU LTI VATI NG A COM M U N IT Y Peek inside the luxury Lombardy Circle condominiums designed by third-generation home builder Simonini Homes. words LIZA CARRASQUILLO /

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photos courtesy SIMONINI

enables upscale living with a classically modern approach."

A

As Charlotte becomes more and more popular across multiple demographics, many buyers are foregoing traditional homes for condominiums closer to the central city.

While there might seem like an endless amount of them popping up, Simonini has managed to differentiate themselves by incorporating luxury amenities, unique finishes, and modern floorplans, along with building in the most sought-after neighborhoods in Charlotte.

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The Folio // Blueprint

“We are proponents of the 'quiet, sophisticated interior within a classic exterior' approach. Our design aesthetic is one that enhances collections and valued possessions while standing strongly and beautifully on its own."

The approach Simonini takes for this particular style of living exemplifies perfectly how seamless and enjoyable condominium living can be. The Dilworth Lombardy Circle community, pictured here, is one of their most successful forays and additions to Charlotte.

“Our goal in designing this complex," explains Alan Simonini, "was to create a community within the desirable Dilworth neighborhood that enables upscale living with a classically modern approach."

The blueprints for Lombardy Terrace were designed by Tyke Jenkins of Jenkins Peer Architects, a renowned firm for both its residential and commercial work. The homes range from 2,100 to 2,600 square feet and feature three bedrooms, three and a half baths, and attached garages. The distinct features and elegant interior designs provide the perfect backdrop for effortless living.

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In fact, just before print, Simonini announced their success in completely selling out Lombardy Terrace. Simonini's next opportunity for convenient "lock & leave" living will be just across the greenway on S Kings Drive in Myers Park. This new community will consist of four luxury condominiums with owner's suites on the main level.

“We are proponents of the 'quiet, sophisticated interior within a classic exterior' approach," says Alan. "Our design aesthetic is one that enhances collections and valued possessions while standing strongly and beautifully on its own."

This dedication to individualism works perfectly for Lombardy Terrace. The exterior looks traditional enough to match Dilworth's established style, but modern enough to stand out. The large, dark-framed windows draw the eye and allow natural sunlight to filter into the clean, refined interiors.

The Folio // Blueprint

According to the team, the home reflected here was staged to compliment the warmth of organic materials along with keeping a minimalistic approach.

The flooring consists of stunning hardwoods with single-tone area rugs to accent defined spaces. The light wooden undertones in the model are carried into the white and off-white furnishings, making the entire space feel natural without losing that modern appeal. Because most of the walls are white as well, the neutral earth-gray cabinets in the kitchen provide a focal point for the open floorplan, A large island with white marble countertops fills in the rest of the kitchen and doubles as a place for bar seating. Across from the kitchen, the gray wall surrounding

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the fireplace accentuates the living area. This color scheme is replicated in the bedrooms of the third story, as well.

By creating a neutral home design with clean accents and minimalistic elements, Simonini designed a space that allows potential buyers to either add their own flair or keep it simple.

To discover more about Simonini Homes and their communities, visit their website. For more information on their newest Myers Park community, Kings Manor, please phone Weezy Parsons at 704-877-8395 or email louise@simonini.com. info simonini.com / @simonini_homes

T R AV E L A N D S P O R T I N G

T H E E X PL OR E D

R EL A X I N T H E VA L L EY A timeless treasure of Valle Crucis peacefully nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains. words WILHEM DIEHL / photos JP GRICE

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The Explored // Weekender

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In 1792, America was still so young that the ability to walk into the woods and find something not yet charted by Europeans was not only possible, but likely. Our young nation was 16 years past its declaration of independence, and only nine years into its realization. The future was not yet written, and many paths not yet walked. So Joe Mast took it upon himself to do just that: In 1792, the original Mast walked from Pennsylvania to North Carolina and settled what is now well known as the Valle Crucis, or Valley of the Cross. To this day, the tracks of the Mast family can be seen well and clear in Valle Crucis, and nowhere more strikingly than at the Mast Farm Inn, where generations of workmanship and years of gentle care have produced luxury in the mountains.

Valle Crucis is somewhere between a well-kept secret and a mustsee Carolina destination. It is nestled between Tester and Valle Mountain; above all else, it is a rich valley with a history of classic Appalachian farming and self-sustainment. I might not need say more, but you simply cannot separate Valle Crucis from Mast Farm Inn.

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The Inn is a collection of several buildings, each meticulously created by the Mast family during their tenure as functions of their ever-expanding self reliance. The farm grew and flourished from the 1700’s on, and even became an inn under the management of the Masts near after the turn of the 20th century. However, as the end of the Mast lineage came to pass in the mid 1900’s, the estate fell quiet and unused for some time.

Summers and winters passed, and still the old farmhouse, the main residence, and many other structures stood resolutely.

Deliverance came in the form of the Department of the Interior, for the old Mast farm, as they declared it to be, “...one of the most complete and best preserved groups of nineteenthcentury farm buildings in western North Carolina.”

More than 50 years after the farm began to blossom again, and 223 years after Joe Mast planted the seed, Mast Farm Inn is alive, flourishing, and making its mark outside of Valle Crucis. Picking your stay may be somewhat difficult however, as the choice of accommodations are all the more intriguing. The little Loom House

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The Explored // Weekender is a great stay for anyone fond of classic American settler architecture, and it carries its weight in history as well. The Loom house was the first building created on the property, and it is considered to be the ‘nucleus’ of the Mast farm. It is beautifully decorated with a rustic hospitality that will put you in touch with the life of a mountaineer, but has all the keepings of a luxury getaway. Whether it’s a couples stay or a solitary retreat, this little cabin will keep you comfortable and make you long for a quiet life on the farm.

Of course, life on the farm wouldn’t be right without a hearty breakfast to bring you through the morning. The kitchen at Mast Farm Inn does just that, but with a light touch that brings a wonderful sophistication to their seasonal menus. There’s no telling what will be on the plate week to week, but if you’re so lucky, you may wake up one morning to their brown sugar and lemon peel oatmeal parfait, made with organic milk and topped with a flambéed fruit compote. Who knew you could make oatmeal not only palatable, but worth making a trip for! True to the spirit of this farm, the staff at Mast Farm Inn do a lot with a little, and show how sustainability can be more than just a challenge, but a luxury worth stopping in to see. info themastfarminn.com @mastfarminn

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The Explored // Carolina Town

DISCOV ER T H E H IGH COU N T RY Boone, NC, one of our favorite Appalachian mountain towns, offers an amazing outdoor experience and an upand-coming cultural environment.

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words ELLIE BARKER photo JAMEY PRICE

The town of Boone sits in Watauga County atop the beautiful Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Boone gets its name from the famous pioneer and explorer, Daniel Boone. It was incorporated in 1872 and now reached a population of nearly 20,000 people.

At 3,333 feet above sea level, the town of Boone sits at the highest elevation of any town its size east of the Mississippi.

Home to Appalachian State University, this town gets a lot of foot traffic and tourists. That being said there’s plenty of places to go and explore in and around Boone.

The famous amusement park, Tweetsie Railroad, is just 11 minutes outside of Boone between the town and Blowing Rock. It is open for daytime operations from early April to late October and evening operations from mid-September to late December. The park resides on 200 acres and hosts a variety of attractions. The centerpiece of the park is a threemile train ride with a live show throughout. However the park also features a variety of amusement park rides like a ferris wheel, carousel, chairlift, and much more as well as live shows, a zoo, and other attractions geared towards families with children. Tweetsie also hosts a range of special events throughout the year including their Halloween and Christmas-themed events. Tweetsie Railroad is the perfect place to go for family and even still a fun place for adults as well.

Boone is also surrounded by the historic Blue Ridge Parkway where you can spend the day hiking in places like Price Lake or Rough Ridge. If you want a killer view of Boone, you

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can’t miss Howards Knob which directly overlooks the town.

There's also Trashcan Falls and Elk River Falls if you’re looking for a swimming hole at the end of your hike.

The main drag in town offers plenty of places to shop and eat. One of the Mast General Store satellite locations is located in the heart of Boone where you can still get the experience of attending the actual store without having to drive 30 minutes out of your way to Valle Crucis. There’s also plenty of small businesses like Shoppes at Farmers, a department store-like place but with locally crafted goods, or The Happy Place and Boone Rock-N-Roll Emporium where you can get unique finds for the hippy or rock and roller in your life.

Boone’s culinary scene is diverse to say the least. Boone has two sushi spots that you can’t miss: CoBo and Makoto’s Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar. If you’re interested in a lighter meal with a deli feel, Our Daily Bread is the perfect place for you. The sandwiches are delicious and you can’t skip out on the soup of the day made from scratch in-house. If you want that classic Southern that you can only find in small towns like Boone, try Proper, which operates in a small house just off of King Street, or Daniel Boone Inn, where you can get a three course meal for only $25 per person. If pizza is your fancy don’t miss out on Capone’s, whose pizza most of the college students prefer over the fast food delivery chains.

There’s plenty to do in Boone, and all at only a two hour drive from Charlotte. Take a day trip or stay a few days and really explore the town.

The Exclusives

Graveyard Fields

SH I FTI NG SE ASONS Our favorite Blue Ridge destinations to visit in the fall. list LIZ A CARR ASQUILLO, JEANNE T TE JONES, and ELLIE BARKER photos JAMEY PRICE or JP GRICE

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For a state with endless summers and unpredictable winters, fall has always been a welcome reprieve. With cooler weather, beloved fall flavors and festive holidays, what's not to love? Unfortunately, that reprieve can pass by in the blink of an eye some years. For those who want to savor every moment of this season, consider starting with some natural sights. These are our favorite fall Blue Ridge destinations.

Craggy Pinnacle

The Exclusives

Rough Ridge

Waterrock Knob Detailing gorgeous views, there’s no better location than Waterrock Knob for taking in autumn’s foliage. The mountain peak has an elevation of 6,292 and exposes you to a gorgeous mountain range.

Rough Ridge Though only 1.2 miles, Rough Ridge is short but impactful.

Hike along the trail and take in the attractive scenery. Make sure to stop by Rough Ridge summit to catch views of Grandfather Mountain and Linn Cove Viaduct.

Linn Cove Viaduct Wrapping around Grandfather Mountain in Linville, Linn Cove Viaduct is steeped with rich history. When faced with how to build a viaduct without bringing harm to the mountain itself, architects and engineers created a bridge with a S shape that hugs close to the mountain. Explore this unique design that gives striking views of both the mountain and leaf colors.

Graveyard Fields Don’t let the name deter you; Graveyard Fields exude some of the most remarkable sights for the change of season. Take a relaxing hike that includes wildflowers and waterfalls.

There’s nothing somber about this trail.

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Looking Glass

Biltmore Estate Nothing short of exquisite, you’re in for only the best experience when you take a trip to Biltmore in Asheville. The estate spans over 8,000 acres and offers opportunities to view fall foliage. Take a stroll through walking trails or along peaceful spots like the French Broad River or gardens. Bike through Biltmore’s 20 miles of trails or hike through forests.

Hanging Rock State Park Spanning over 8,605 acres, what’s most incredible about Hanging Rock is there is no limit of alluring sights to see.

From rushing waterfalls to solemn forests, Hanging Rock is a prime fall location.

Table Rock Table Rock is one the most awe-inspiring ridges in the Pisgah National Forest. Its peak reaches over 3,950 feet above sea level and overlooks Linville Gorge. This view would truly be a sight to see any time of year, but, during peak foliage season, it’s not one you can miss.

Looking Glass Rock With its immense size Looking Glass Rock, in Pisgah National Forest, is extraordinary in itself. But, if you make it to the top, you get to see the best of changing leaves and autumn colors for miles and miles.

Waterrcok Knob

Beech Mountain Though a popular location for skiing and snowboarding, Beech Mountain is amazing in autumn. Take a trip through scenic trails and striking fall colors. Within the village, there are a variety of restaurants to enjoy after your journey.

Dupont State Forest Just 30 or so minutes outside of Brevard, North Carolina sits one of the state's true gems, Dupont, full of amazing hiking trails and a handful of world-class waterfalls. High Falls, Triple Falls, and Hooker Falls are beautiful destinations to visit to see the power of the Little River but also to enjoy the colors of autumn.

Tennent Mountain With an elevation of 6,040 feet above sea level, Tennent Mountain has stunning fall views. Hit it around sunset or sunrise and you can see the valley beneath glow in the light. There's a good chance to spot a black bear if you hop on the Art Loeb Trail and head over to Black Balsam Knob.

Blowing Rock Blowing Rock is arguably one of the most “fallish” places in North Carolina. Each year the town decorates with pumpkins, fall colors, and mountain décor. And from the peak the town is named from you can get almost 360-degree view of the leaves changing.

Linn Cove Viaduct

Lake Lure From the lake, you can see the surrounding leaves and the reflections on the water. Take the day to go hang out on the water and bask in the autumn colors around you.

Sugar Mountain In the winter, this place operates a ski resort, but you can still ride the chairlift even if there isn’t a snowy blanket on the ground. Ride the chairlift all the way to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views of the entire region.

Highlands, NC When you combine so many wonderful views in this southwestern part of the state including views of Whiteside Mountain with easy access to some of the very best waterfalls in the state includign Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, you realy have a mountain destination that has it all.

Craggy Gardens and Craggy Pinnacle This area gets a little crowded but if you go early in the morning, late in the evening , or after a rain storm (the rain scares most everyone off the Parkway) you have a great chance to get this absolutely gorgeous area almost all to yourself. From here on out it only gets less crowded too as the cooler weather tends to keep travelers away. If you can make it by sunset, it's one of the most beautiful views in the Western NC, even better than neighboring Mt. Mitchell.

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The Exclusives

A N ODE TO T H E NATIONA L PA R KS SERV ICE Explore ten beautiful National Parks, Forests, Seashores, and Refuges right here in the Carolinas. words and list KIR AN WHEELER and SUNNY HUBLER photos JAMEY PRICE or JP GRICE

Looking Glass Falls, Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest

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The National Park Service, founded in 1916 by Theodore Roosevelt, Stephen Mather, Horace Albright, and Woodrow Wilson, is responsible for managing and conserving historical properties across the country, including national parks. In order to be considered a national park, an area should be an outstanding type of particular resource, exceptionally illustrate a cultural or national theme, offer unique opportunities for recreation or scientific study, or is an example of an unspoiled type of resource.

The national park system in the United States is unrivaled and attracts nearly 330 million visitors each year, many from other countries. Some of the most famous and popular national parks include the Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Glacier, Zion, Olympic, and Acadia. In these national parks, you can observe stunning views, go hiking, stay in one-of-a-kind lodges, witness incredible natural phenomena and formations, and learn more about the history and culture of people across the country.

There are 419 national park sites in the US right now, and they span across more than 85 million acres. In the Carolinas, you can find 41 state parks, of which ten of those are also classified as national parks, forests, or refuges, including the Appalachian Trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Cape Hatteras and Cape Lookout national seashores, Congaree park, and several historical sites and battlefields. Together, all of these parks offer visitors the opportunity to swim, bike, hike, climb, paddle, picnic, birdwatch, and learn. We highly recommend taking advantage of a world-renowned park system, and national parks offer the opportunity to spend some time outside and be active, which is especially valuable and important during times like these.

Every year about seven million people visit these forests to camp, hike, mountain bike, hunt, fish, take scenic drives, or just enjoy nature’s solitude. With more than 80,000 acres of protected lands stretching from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sand dunes of South Carolina, the Park Service protects some of the most inviting natural, cultural, and recreational destinations in the country. Here is a compilation of the must-visit parks, trails, and forests in the Carolinas.

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The Exclusives

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Congaree National Park

The Appalachian Trail The Appalachian Trail is a 2,180-plus mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild and culturally resonant lands of the Appalachian Mountains from Maine to Georgia. It was created in 1921, built by private citizens, and completed in 1937. You can just hike for the day and see how far you get or thru-hike the entire trail. The North Carolina section of the A.T. rises to spectacular summits including the 6,643-ft Clingmans Dome, which is the highest point on the A.T. It also drops in the dark steep walls of Nantahala River Gorge.

Blue Ridge Parkway The Blue Ridge Parkway is a ribbon of road that weaves through the region’s vibrant living traditions. From Cherokee life and agricultural history to Southern Appalachian crafts and music, the Parkway’s 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina offer many ways to explore rich traditions. Some think of the Parkway as just a motor road or a pleasant drive, but it’s also a place of varied and significant natural resources. Catch a glimpse of the region's varying flora and fauna by hiking along the Parkway’s many trails or just driving through.

Great Smoky Mountains Bountiful ridges of forests straddle the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The location is known worldwide for its diversity of plant and animal life and the beauty one can find in its ancient landscape, making it America’s most visited national park. Cades Cove is a broad, vibrant valley within the Great Smokies. Tour the Cove and see some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the

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park. The valley also has a rich history and offers the widest variety of historic buildings of any area in the national park.

Cape Hatteras Cape Hatteras is a place to engage your senses. Hear the sound of ocean waves, gaze upon the starry night sky, and feel the calm of the salt marshes. Whether you prefer basking in the sun’s rays on the beach, kayaking in the sound, or climbing the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Spending time on the sandy beaches of the Cape is a memorable experience, no matter who you are. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore also has four campgrounds with the park, all of which have tent, trailer and motorhome sites.

Cape Lookout A boat ride three miles off-shore brings you to the barrier islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. There are so many activities to be enjoyed on this stretch of coastline. Horse watching, shelling, fishing, birding, camping, lighthouse climbing, and touring historic villages: there’s something for everyone at Cape Lookout. In Portsmouth Village, one of the local communities, you can take a guided tour of the village, visit the Theodore & Anne Salter House, explore the exhibits and much more. When visiting this park be sure to bring all the food, water, and supplies you think you’ll need when visiting remote beaches.

Congaree Located in Hopkins, South Carolina, Congaree National Park is a must-see place for nature enthusiasts. In addition to being a designated wilderness area, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, an impor-

Francis Marion Nationa1 Forest

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

tant bird area, and a national natural landmark, the park features primitive campsites, and offers hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and bird watching. The park is also a popular spot for watching firefly displays on summer evenings. Some of the more popular hiking trails include the Bluff Trail (.7 mil), Weston Lake Loop Trail (4.6 mil), Oakridge Trail (7.5 mil), and King Snake Trail (11.1 mil).

Spring can be one of the best times to visit the park as temperatures are generally warm with an average of mid to upper 70’s.

Pisgah Pisgah National Forest is located in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. The Blue Ridge Parkway travels through large parts of Pisgah National Forest. Another popular scenic drive is the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway. Featured along this 15-mile stretch, you can find Looking Glass Falls, Moore Cove Falls, Sliding Rock natural waterslide, and the Cradle of Forestry historic site. There are also dozens of mountain biking areas throughout the National Forest. By mid-October, the fall color is truly at its peak. If you’re planning on hiking, early fall or late spring are when temperatures tend to be more moderate.

Nantahala Nantahala National Forest is located near Bryson City, NC about an hour away from Asheville. There is easy access to a wide variety of adventure off the Mountain Water National Scenic Byway.

The 61.3 mile drive winds through the southern Appalachian hardwood forest, two spectacular river gorges, rural countryside. On the Cherohala Skyway you can enjoy breathtaking mountain views with little evidence of civilization. There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails that wind through Nantahala making it a

great place to enjoy the peace and wonder of nature. The summer is one the best times to visit Nantahala as the mountains provide visitors with relief from the worst of the summer heat.

Cape Romain National Refuge Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge is located near Awendaw, South Carolina. The refuge lands and waters encompass water impoundments, creeks, bays, salt marshes, and barrier islands.

With over 293 birds recorded on the refuge, birdwatching opportunities are excellent year-round. During the spring and fall, migratory shorebirds, songbirds, and raptors move through the refuge. Cape Romain offers several interpretive tours and events throughout the year including the Historic Lighthouse Tour. Two hiking trails are located on Bulls Island which are relatively short and easy. The best time to visit is April to August if your goal is to be treated to the magical sensation of being enclosed by tunnels of busy trees.

Francis Marion The Francis Marion National Forest is located about 33 miles north of Charleston, South Carolina. On the site of the battle between forces of British Col. Banastre Tarleton and Revolutionary Gen. Francis Marion, this wildlife-rich 260,000-acre forest welcomes campers, hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, kayakers, and picnickers. The National Forest offers recreational activities as diverse as its terrain—whether you prefer to hike to a mountain waterfall or paddle a low country swamp wilderness.

If you’re hiking, the best time to visit is in the winter as the temperatures are cooler and (since most of the land is wetland) the trails are less soggy.

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The Exclusives

MOU N TA I N CH A R M Experience small town Appalachia with these NC mountain destinations this fall. words GIA L ASH / photos JAMEY PRICE or JP GRICE

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Fall is the perfect time of year to visit the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. Nestled in between the peaks, you’ll find endearing mountain towns all over Western NC, all with different activities to offer. Here are some of our favorites, and what we recommend enjoying while you visit.

The Exclusives

Blowing Rock Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock was named after The Blowing Rock formation, which offers stunning views of the mountains. The town also is home to Tweetsie Railroad, Blowing Rock Art & History Museum, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, and various hiking trails with scenic views. This winter, you can also visit Appalachian Ski Mountain, one of the most popular spots to ski in North Carolina.

West Jefferson Found in Ashe County, North Carolina, West Jefferson is a quirky town with a lot to offer. When you visit, head over to Carolina Country Wines for a wine tasting, CatchLight Gallery for professional photos of the Blue Ridge and beyond, or Ashe County Cheese, a cheese plant that allows you to experience the whole process. With a perfect balance of modern culture and history, West Jefferson is a perfect piece of the Blue Ridge.

Visit for an iconic photo at The Blowing Rock.

Visit for the West Jefferson Arts District.

Brevard If you’re looking to enjoy nature, Brevard is the place to be. Located at the entrance to Pisgah National Forest, Brevard is home to many waterfalls and other natural rock formations, including Looking Glass Falls and Batson Creek Falls. It is also the home of Sliding Rock, a natural water slide that ends in a 60-foot-deep pool of water.

Banner Elk Located between Beech Mountain Ski Resort to the north and Sugar Mountain Ski Resort to the south, Banner Elk is quite a popular place to be in the fall and winter seasons. It’s the perfect place to be outdoors in any season, whether it’s by Wildcat Lake, or just a few miles away at Grandfather Mountain. It’s also known as the culinary hotspot of the High Country.

Visit for the beautiful Looking Glass Falls.

Visit for Wildcat Lake, a free public lake with a dock.

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Spruce Pine Located in Mitchell County, Spruce Pine is a little town with a lot of personality, just a few miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway.

It’s home to a variety of different festivals throughout the year, including Fire on the Mountain, which celebrates the work of local blacksmiths, and the Spruce Pine BBQ & Bluegrass Festival in July. This fall, look out for Toe Jam, a twelve hour rock ‘n’ roll event, and the Spruce Pine Potters Market.

Bryson City Considered the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bryson City is rich with natural beauty. With rafting and kayaking on the Nantahala River, biking on the Tsali trails, and boating and fishing on Fontana Lake, it doesn’t get much better.

Another great attraction is the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, which offers picturesque views of the mountains and valleys.

Visit for the views on The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

Visit for Main Street where you can step back in time.

Cherokee Cherokee is a town on the reservation of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation. It’s full of history, with attractions like Oconaluftee Indian Village, which offers a look into the lifestyle of the 18th-century Cherokee people. A visit to Cherokee offers the opportunity to pay respect to long traditions, and connect with the outdoors like never before.

Maggie Valley Known as a friendly city with a small-town charm, Maggie Valley has great opportunities for activities in nature, including hiking, biking, camping, and whitewater rafting. You can also see the elk in the Cataloochee area of the town, where they have been successfully reintroduced. This autumn, you can also take a scenic drive in the area, to take in the leaves as they change color against the backdrop of The Blue Ridge.

Visit for Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Visit for an elk sighting in the Cataloochee region.

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The Exclusives

A L L A BOU T AU T U M N Enjoy fall in the Queen City with some of our favorite things to do in the Charlotte metro area. list JEANNE T TE JONES photos JAMEY PRICE or JP GRICE

With the change in season comes a number of fall activities to enjoy in Charlotte. From festivals and breweries to art crawls and farm hayrides, there is no shortage of things to do, see, and try in and around the Queen City. Bundle up, enjoy the crisp air, and experience everything Charlotte has to offer this autumn.

The Exclusives

A duck at sunset on Lake Wylie near Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens

Stroll through the garden Autumn is a perfect time to take in the beautiful leaves and enjoy the dip in temperatures. Take a stroll through some of Charlotte’s beautiful gardens such as Wing Haven, McGill Rose Garden, and Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Just 20 minutes from Uptown, DSBG is a perfect way to connect with nature and features over 110 acres of gardens, conservatory, and walking trails. There’s no better way to absorb the autumn season.

Location: Belmont, NC Cost: $14.95 for adults, $7.95 for kids 2-12 dsbg.org Run a race Get into the Halloween spirit by participating in the Running Scared 5 Miler and Monster Mile taking place October 31st. Costumes are encouraged as you race through Charlotte’s beautiful scenery. Kids’ activities, food trucks, beer, and live music will also be included during the event.

Location: Charlotte, NC Cost: $20 for Monster Mile, $34.99 for Running Scared 5 Miler runningscared5miler.com Go apple and pumpkin picking A quintessential aspect of the season is apple picking: Car-

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A successful apple picking day at Carrigan Farms in Mooresville

rigan Farms in Mooresville more than supplies this key feature and meets all your needs for pie-baking supplies. But the family-owned farm doesn’t just stop at apple picking. Go for a hayride and pick a pumpkin or explore Scarrigan Farms on select October nights.

Location: Mooresville, NC Cost: $11.00 for apple picking and hayrides. carriganfarms.com Spend a day by the lake Summers may be best spent by the lake, but don’t forget autumn!

Charlotte lakes are even better enjoyed in fall with warm water and cool air, and many aren’t that far from Uptown. Lake Norman also includes a number of activities such as a corn maze or hiking and biking trails around the area if you’d rather not be by the lake.

Location: Lake Norman, NC Cost: $6 for maze, $4 for kids 5-12 visitlakenorman.org Enjoy the best of Charlotte’s Fall brews Local breweries, like NoDa Brewing Company, offer both yearround brews and seasonal selections. Choose from brews like Gordeous, a pumpkin ale that was a gold medal winner of the 2018

Fall colors at Ramsey Creek Park

Great American Beer Festival. In the mood for cider instead?

Since 2015 Red Clay Ciderworks entered the hard cider scene in Charlotte and it’s more than perfect to enjoy this fall season.

A few drinks to put on your radar include Chai Jacked, a chai spice pumpkin cider, or Pomme Pom, with notes of pomegranate and apple.

Location: Charlotte, NC nodabrewing.com redclayciderworks.com Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery At Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery, guests can enjoy apple picking, hayrides, a hard cider bar featuring GoodRoad and Red Clay Ciderworks, and the famous fried apple cider donuts. Reservations are required this season.

Location: York, South Carolina Cost: Pick-your-own apples cost between $5 and $25 Catch an Outdoor Drive-in Movie It’s the perfect weather to enjoy a drive-in movie. Several places around Charlotte, like The Music Yard, Old Town Cornelius, Hounds Drive-In, and Papa Doc’s Shore Club, are all screening a variety of different beloved films that are perfect for fall, from Ghostbusters and Harry Potter to Beetlejuice and Hocus Pocus.

Bright maple leaves in Charlotte's South End neighborhood

Location: South Boulevard, Cornelius, Kings Mountain, and Lake Wylie Cost: Averages $20 per car Visit Charlotte’s Regional Vineyards There are several vineyards within a relatively short 30 to 40 minute drive from Charlotte’s Uptown. With the crisp air, there’s no better time to sit outside, sip a local wine, and enjoy the vineyard views. Many are requiring reservations right now, so be sure to check online before visiting. The closest two vineyards from Charlotte proper are Douglas and Rocky River. You can also get to Cauble Creek, Treehouse Vineyards, Davasté, and Veronét Vineyards & Winery all within around 40 minutes.

Location: Locations range from Monroe NC to Kannapolis NC Cost: Tastings and tours start as low as $8 Take in the Arts The Davidson Fall Art Festival has some of the best artists displaying their artwork through pottery, jewelry, textiles, and more. Enjoy live music and food as you stroll through some of Davidson’s historic and timeless streets.

Location: Davidson, NC Cost: Free

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IN DEX AGM Imports................................. 65 Amina Rubinacci ...........................18 Anne Neilson Fine Art .................41 Arcadia ..........................................39 Artisan Rug Gallery ..................55 B.D. Jeffries ...................................21 Blackhawk Hardware ................71 Blue Ridge Mountain Club .......98 Brandon Lawn Real Estate .....33 Cadenza .........................................81 Carolina Dental .........................53 Coggin Law ...................................80 Layne Barter Makeup................73 Couture Knots ...........................45 Design Loft Cabinets ................79 Diamonds Direct....... Back Cover DilworthFacialPlasticSurgery...82

Donald Haack Diamonds ..........25 DwellNova ....................................10 E.S. Johnson Builders ...............43 Elder Gallery ..............................24 Emerson Joseph .............................4 Engel & Völkers ........................123 Fahrenheit ....................................6 Gerrard Builders .......................26

Grande Custom Builders ........58 Hood Hargett ............................105 InStyle ..........................................56 Incredible Bank ..........................24 Karen Kettler Design ...............42 Kingswood Homes ......................23 Lake Norman Realty ..................29 Levantina ......................................75 Lucy And Company ........................17 Majestic Bath ..............................76 McDevitt Agency .........................13 MintMuseum ................................57 Mullinix Mortgage ...................66 Myron Greer................................85 Nav ..................................................89 Nest Homes ...................................35 Nestlewood Luxe .......................35 New Life Building Supplies .....69 Noble Food & Pursuits ..............61 Omni Hotels & Resorts ............122 Osteria Luca ................................56 Overture ......................................62 Pai, CPA, PLLC ...............................30 Pam Harrington Exclusives ...101 Peppermint Forest .....................91

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Plan your next getaway, and experience a fun-filled stay packed with amazing amenities, including complimentary access to the Charlotte Athletic Club, as well as fine dining and much more!

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Pheasant Hill Designs ..............89 Premier Patio Concepts ............83 Premier Sotheby’s ........................8 RK Motors ....................................20 Saint Mary’s School ................48 Shain Gallery ..............................49 Shea Custom Homes ...................31 Sightline Steel Doors ............102 Simonini ..........................................51 Sodoma Law ................................22 Springdale ...................................47 Stark ...............................................19 Subzero Wolf ..............................67 TLG Doors & Hardware ..............63 The Crystal Coast ...................103 Timbers Kiawah ............................15 Uptown Charlotte Smiles ......82 Window and Door Pros ............87 Windsor Jewelers ........................2

FOLLOW YOUR DREAM, HOME.

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659 Clubhouse Drive, Unit D-1 Light and airy condo with vaulted ceilings includes two beds and two full and one-half bathrooms.

Tricia Holloway . Engel & Völkers Banner Elk 610 Banner Elk Highway . Banner Elk . NC 28604 | Office: +1 828-898-3808 . Mobile: +1 561-202-5003 Learn more at bannerelk.evrealestate.com

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