QC Exclusive No 73 - 2021 - Issue 1 - The Renew Issue

The Quintessential Charlotte Luxury Magazine

the renew issue As we welcome in the new year, our focus is dedicated to supporting local, from eating healthy meals to reaching our workout resolutions and rejuvenating in the Queen City.

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

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R O O F T O P . B A R . R E S TA U R A N T O P E N D A I LY F O R D I N N E R

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S U N D AY B R U N C H

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P R I VAT E S PA C E

Located at 222 South Caldwell Street, 21st Floor, Charlotte, NC 9 8 0 . 2 3 7 . 6 7 1 8 www.fahrenheitcharlotte.com

WEDDING RECEPTIONS

SPECIAL EVENTS

FOOD TRUCK O F F - S I T E C AT E R I N G

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

For your view from the top

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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.

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G E R R A R DBU I L DE R S .C OM 70 4 . 2 4 1 . 8 8 6 3 | @ G E R R A R DBU I L DE R S

C R A F TSM A N SH I P. R E F I N E D.

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THE EXCLUSIVES

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A Fresh Start Visit some of Charlotte’s top spots to eat well, and kick the new year off with a delicious and healthy start.

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Relax And Rejuvenate The best Charlotte spots for self-care for a new year, new you.

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Kickstart Your New Year’s Resolution Looking to break a sweat in 2021?

These local gyms and studios are ready to help you.

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Pedal Farther, Faster Greensboro company eBike Central pedals its way to Charlotte.

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DEPARTMENTS

CULTURE ARTS • STYLE • WELLNESS

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An Ever-Changing Artist Artist and instructor Nicholas Stewart talks about his passion for art and what’s next as he continues his work.

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Intelligent Abstraction Jerald Melberg Gallery opens a solo exhibition from Katherine Boxall.

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55 FOOD & DRINK RESTAURANTS • DISHES • LIBATIONS

Skyline Muse Landscape and cityscape photographer Myles Gelbach captures Charlotte and beyond.

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Eating With Purpose Modern American fare at Fine & Fettle.

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Sip Local Meet the founders of Birch Fine Tea.

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Stir's Ceviche A fresh appetizer in South End.

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Vana's Keep It Spicy A tasty cocktail from a favorite South End eatery.

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Member's Only Painkiller Start the weekend off right with this cocktail.

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Where Excellence Meets Independence Discover the rich history, values and eye-catching collections behind Windsor Jewelers, one of the finest independent jewelers in the Carolinas.

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Fitness Fuel The Atherton development gains speed with the addition of the beloved Barry’s Bootcamp.

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The Stanley's Gazpacho A delicious and colorful dish in Elizabeth.

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We believe an investment in your sleep is an investment in your life.

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DEPARTMENTS

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HOME & DESIGN PROFILES • SPACES • FEATURED HOME

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Covering The Carolinas The art of wallpaper with Jennifer Haigler of Carolina Wallcovering.

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Rug Comfort A gorgeous Couture Knots rug anchors a fine family room.

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Traditionally Inviting An enviable living area from J. Layton Interiors

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Embody Elegance An Arcadia Homes kitchen exudes luxury.

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Grande Style A stunning kitchen from the folks at Grand Custom Builders.

TRAVEL ACCOMMODATIONS • TOWNS • ADVENTURES

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The Southern Host The Carolina Treehouse is The Southern Host’s newest Piedmont vacation destination.

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A Visit To The Holy City The very best of Charleston’s shops, hotels and restaurants in 2021.

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Winter In The OBX Enjoy your trip to the Outer Banks to the fullest with these five wintertime activities.

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Joseph Bradley

Joseph Bradley Koi on Silver 48x48

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

NOTE

No. 73 Happy 2021! I think it's safe to say that we're all happy to get 2020

behind us. We aren't naive enough to think that just because the calendar flips from December 31 to January 1 that all of the challenges simply vanish, but there is something especially symbolic this year about the turning of the page.

2020 no doubt was one of the toughest years in recent memory, but our community here in Charlotte is a strong one and that's why we at QC Exclusive look forward to the coming year.

Our first issue of the year is dedicated to wellness, to health, and to community. We wanted to use our pages to promote the gyms and wellness studios that have endured hardship since quarantine began in March of last year. We wanted to promote the restaurants — and their healthy dishes, of course ­— to show the culinary industry how much it means to the city. We also wanted to share some places perfect to relax and rejuvenate, because, after all, you earned it.

Along with all of our Exclusives, we also visit the studio of local artist Nicholas Stewart, check out Jerald Melberg's new exhibit, windowshop at Windsor Jewelers, dine at Fine & Fettle, enjoy some soothing Birch Fine Tea, staycation at a Charlotte treehouse, and take two visits to the Carolina coast. It's an issue chock-full of things that encourage living better, relaxing, and rejuvenating, and we think you deserve just that. Here's to 2021. It's going to be a good one!

128 S. Tryon St., Suite 860 (Corner of 4th/Tryon) • Charlotte, NC 28202

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Sincerely, Jon-Paul Grice, Art Director Brett Barter, Publisher

EST. 2011

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OUR TEAM PUBLISHER Brett Barter ART DIRECTOR Jon-Paul Grice EDITOR Sunny Hubler

Why skim the surface? want to Youdive in.

EDITORIAL Liza Carrasquillo Eleanor Merrell PHOTOGRAPHY Jamey Price EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Julia Funderburk Sam Husted Laurynn Harkins Kennedi Jackson Jillian Mitrecic Justin Norwood COVER PHOTO Myles Gelbach

At Saint Mary’s School, whether you’re on campus or distance learning, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant high school experience. Our rigorous liberal arts curriculum, unique urban location, and vibrant 24/7 campus offers you all you need to discover who you are and who you want to become.

You want to make a splash. We can give you the platform.

Find what you need at sms.edu/splash. .

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CONTACT US FEEDBACK We welcome your feedback—both positive and negative—and believe it is very valuable in our constant pursuit to be better as a publication. We encourage all of our readers to contact us with any critiques, compliments, or questions by email at info@qcexclusive.com.

EDITORIAL Contact JP Grice by phone at 828-773-4922 or email at jp@qcexclusive.com.

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RETRACTION We would like to apologize for a crediting error in our last issue — 2020 Issue No. 9. In the article entitled Skin In The Game about wellness boutique Skin By Blair we credited the wrong photographer.

Allison Kuhn Photgraphy took the amazing photos. Our apologies go out to her for this mistake.

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gather RIVER AT THE

CASE BAUMGARTEN

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A R T S • S T Y L E • W E L L N ES S

A N EV ER-CH A NGI NG A RTIST Artist and instructor Nicholas Stewart talks about his passion for art and what’s next as he continues his work. words LIZA CARRASQUILLO

photos JAMEY PRICE

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Artists are expected to work with passion—it’s the driving force that turns their creativity into something tangible that others can experience. Not every artist, however, is expected to share that passion in a way that so strongly encourages others to do the same. That’s exactly what Nicholas Stewart does as both an artist and an art teacher.

Stewart, who now teaches private courses in Charlotte, has been working hard to create a world he’s always imagined— one with more art and artists sharing their craft.

“My love of art stemmed from my desire to be a cartoonist at the age of eight,” recalls Stewart. “I grew up in a small town where most people aspired to be farmers or factory workers.

A career as an artist wasn't a typical pursuit.”

Stewart counts himself lucky to have had support from his parents as he dove deeper into art. “In such an unlikely scenario,” says Stewart, “my mother and father always encouraged my art making and creativity. My mother even made me ‘road trip art boxes’ whenever we went for a long drive. In hindsight, those boxes filled with art supplies had a huge impact on my future.”

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After discovering his love for painting in college and studying under Dr. Halide Salam and Z.L. Feng, Stewart obtained a BFA and MFA in Painting from Radford University. He then began working alongside Andy Braitman at Braitman Studio.

“My move to Charlotte was a huge risk,” says Stewart.

“Andy had only offered me a ‘three-day trial.’ Lucky for me, Andy and I formed an unmistakable bond… My relationship with Andy has been invaluable, as he isn't only my employer but my mentor and friend.”

Stewart describes his art as ever-changing, and for good reason. He’s gone from emulating cartoonists and comic book illustrators to working with oil paints and creating abstract art. He’s not concerned with what medium he’s using, and instead focuses on making his current work the best it can be. To date, he’s had pieces in multiple Charlotte showcases, including ones in Holt McLean Studios and Shain Gallery.

Knowing how invaluable a little support can be, Stewart has also set his sights on teaching. “My students range from teens just beginning their pursuit of art, to adults who have

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“I’m always looking forward to meeting the new faces who will take the leap into the world of making and collecting original works of art.” never picked up a brush, to professionals with established art careers,” says Stewart. “Every person has their own traits that make teaching exciting, but the biggest takeaway is always seeing the cultivation of their passion for creativity.”

Stewart currently teaches through Braitman Studio and the Holt School of Fine Art. He offers private in-home drawing lessons, as well as watercolor and oil painting lessons. As he continues to mentor others and evolve his art style, he knows

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that one thing with his art will always remain the same: “I’m always looking forward to meeting the new faces who will take the leap into the world of making and collecting original works of art.” info nicholasmstewart.com @nicholasmstewartfineart

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I N T EL L IGEN T A BST R ACTION Jerald Melberg Gallery opens a solo exhibition from Katherine Boxall. words SUNNY HUBLER

Jerald Melberg Gallery will present a brand new exhibition of abstract paintings by Katherine Boxall on display till March 6, 2021. This is the artist’s inaugural solo exhibition with the gallery and a catalogue is being published for the occasion.

A Canadian native, Boxall holds an MFA from the San Francisco Art Institute. After moving to Charlotte in 2018, Boxall immediately began constructing her intelligent, expressive paintings using a mix of materials: acrylic, spray paint, pastel and oil.

Of this new body of work, Boxall says, “The paintings in this exhibition were created in my warehouse studio in Char-

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lotte, North Carolina, during the 2020 pandemic. The work is influenced by the unusual grounding experience we all find ourselves in, but also a series of nomadic camping trips that my partner, dog and I have been undertaking across the United States this year. Being from Canada and far from ‘home’, these paintings memorialize moments of novelty and escapism living, working, and traveling in America.” info jeraldmelberg.com @jeraldmelberg

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“Persistence pays off. I've watched so many duds of a sunset, but you have to keep trying because you never know which one is going to be that magical one.”

SK Y L I N E M USE Landscape and cityscape photographer Myles Gelbach captures Charlotte and beyond.

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words SAM HUSTED

photos MYLES GELBACH

Though you may not know his name, you’ve definitely seen his work. Myles Gelbach is a talented photographer with a penchant for capturing cityscapes, specifically Charlotte’s. Over the past two years, he has grown quite the following via social media where he showcases his impressive photography.

As a Queen City native, Gelbach grew up right alongside the city. His grandfather was a portrait photographer in Myers Park so you could say the art is part of his pedigree. As a child, he became fascinated with construction and the everevolving silhouette of Uptown. Gelbach was and remains captivated by the human potential it symbolizes. Now the skyline and its architecture are his muse.

He documents the growth and beauty through his lens, capturing the entire gamut of landscape photography from kaliedoscopic sunsets to rising harvest moons over Charlotte.

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Occasionally you'll even see him share a photo from above, taken from a plane while cruising at 100mph.

No matter what Queen City subject he's capturing, Gelbach's images seem to always be eyecatching with a hint of drama: architecture reflecting in puddles, thunderheads rolling in, bolts of lightning striking the city, or fireworks exploding above the stadium.

His travel photography is no different. On his website and social media channels you can find frameworthy photos of lighthouses compressed against colossal full moons, pictures of Blue Ridge layers glowing at twilight, and images of tents pitched under the brightest of milky ways.

We sat down with the talented Gelbach to talk about his photography pursuits, his inspirations, his love for the Queen City, and where he plans to travel in 2021.

www.blrealestate.com

“I love being able to document a slice of time, to take pictures of things that people don't always get to see, such as the full moon or storms.”

What sparked your interest in photography?

I've had a camera phone and took snapshots for years. But on a trip to the Grand Canyon, I tried my hardest to take a picture of the sunset, but no matter what I tried I couldn't get it to look like what my eyes saw. Shortly after that, I was on a backpacking trip to Linville Gorge and experienced the same thing. The day I got home, I went to Best Buy and bought my first camera.

How did you choose to make landscapes and cityscapes your genre?

I've always been big on hiking, camping, and exploring new places. So once I had a camera, documenting my travels and adventures pretty much became second nature.

Any photographers that inspire or influence your work?

As far as local photographers go, Justin Potter, Houston Ray, and JP Grice take some absolutely gorgeous pictures. Outside of the NC bubble, I follow several storm chasers such as Mike Umscheid, Mike Olbinski, and John Finney, and would love to make it out to tornado alley one season and get to try my hand at photographing some of the storms out there.

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What brand/gear/equipment do you use?

I have a Sony Camera, primarily Sony lenses, and a Benro tripod.

What is your favorite lens?

70-300mm. Being able to shoot wide is great, but I love to be able to zoom in and isolate a subject!

What’s one item you can’t live without while shooting?

It's winter, so I'm going to have to go with a pair of HotHands!

Any advice you’d like to give landscape photographers who are just starting out?

Persistence pays off. I've watched so many duds of a sunrise/sunset, but you have to keep trying because you never know which one is going to be that magical one.

What types of photography do you enjoy?

I love capturing cityscapes, mostly Charlotte at the moment.

Pre-COVID times, I traveled to a decent amount of cities for work. So once things get back to normal, I'm definitely looking forward to photographing other city's skylines.

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“I grew up getting to see gorgeous pictures that other photographers took, but being able to take my own is just such a surreal experience.”

What compels you to shoot?

I love being able to document a slice of time, to take pictures of things that people don't always get to see, such as the full moon or storms.

What are some obstacles you face as a landscape photographer?

Bad weather, high tides, currently.

What do you think is the most rewarding aspect of your photography?

Being able to print my work. I grew up getting to see gorgeous pictures that other photographers took, but being able to take my own is just such a surreal experience.

How has the community here in Charlotte inspired your work?

I've been able to call Charlotte home almost my entire life. It has a little bit of an underdog mentality. I've heard people say

it has no character, it's too small of a city, and other things along those lines, so getting to watch the skyline and city grow has been amazing. Since I started photography, I've also been able to meet and become a part of the talented and supportive community of photographers here in the city. When I was just getting started I remember being in awe at some of the art people like Houston Ray and Cody Hughes were putting out. I'm terrible at reaching out to ask questions, so I sunk a lot of time into researching different techniques and how to improve myself.

What are your photography plans for 2021?

Hopefully with things getting back to normal I'll get to pick up traveling more. I'm currently planning a trip to see the northern lights in Alaska later on in the year, and I'd love to spend some time out in the middle of the country to get a few pictures of some of the storms they have out there. As far as Charlotte specific photography, I'd love to branch out to get better at things that aren't the skyline, whether it's getting better at real estate photography, food photography, or automotive photography.

— info — mphphotos.com / @mylesperhour_photography

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Levine Museum of the New South brings Charlotte’s culture and history to life through programming and exhibits. We foster authentic, productive, and important dialogue about today’s critical issues within the context of history.

Experience the stories of Charlotte in a new way!

STAY CONNECTED: Museumofthenewsouth.org | @levinemuseum Levine Museum of the New South 200 E. Seventh Street | Charlotte, NC 28202

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W H ER E EXCEL L ENCE M EETS I N DEPEN DENCE Discover the rich history, values and eye-catching collections behind Windsor Jewelers, one of the finest independent jewelers in the Carolinas. words LIZA CARRASQUILLO

There’s something inherently precious about jewelry— something that goes beyond just the rare metals or expensive gems. Whether buying for oneself or for a loved one, there’s a type of intimacy hidden within the shopping process—or at least, there should be. Buyers should be allowed to take their time, ask questions, and work with their jewelers to find the perfect piece. Unfortunately, as big box chain stores become more and more prominent, that final stage is being lost.

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photos JAMEY PRICE

Windsor Jewelers aims to change that. Founded in 1986

by Rob Simon, Windsor Jewelers was built on the promise of bringing the latest jewelry trends to North Carolina, as well as offering unparalleled customer service to everyone who walked through their doors. They’re now considered one of the premier independent jewelers of the Carolinas, and for good reason. As a family-owned store, they understand that finding the right jewelry for someone means knowing a bit

ExpEriEncE

thE

Simonini DiffErEncE

Custom Homes | Luxury Neighborhoods | Renovations simonini.com | 704.333.8999 | @simonini_homes

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about them. That’s why they work hard to make sure their buyers feel comfortable with every part of their purchase, from stepping into the store to customizing the final piece.

As a passionate wholesale jewelry sales representative for several years, Simon knew what it would take to bring the right styles at the right prices to his store. That’s why he immediately brought in world-renowned brands like TAG Heuer, Roberto Coin, and Brietling. By combining industry knowledge with that customer-centric approach that’s been left out

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of larger stores, Windsor Jewelers soon grew enough to open another location.

But, Simon knew they could do more. Their goal was always to be the finest independent jeweler in the state, and that meant pushing into uncharted territories. This ambition led Simon to secure a partnership with the Swiss watch brand Patek Phillippe in 1995. As the first to bring Patek Philippe to the Southeast, Windsor Jewelers cemented themselves as an independent powerhouse in the jewelry world.

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ON VIEW NOW MINT MUSEUM UPTOWN Color is inescapable. Perception is everything.

In Vivid Color: Pushing the Boundaries of Perception in Contemporary Art explores the effect of color on perceived realities, because life is not just black and white.

In Vivid Color: Pushing the Boundaries of Perception in Contemporary Ar t is generously sponsored by Wells Fargo Private Bank and the Mint Museum Auxiliary. Additional generous individual support provided by Mar y Anne (M.A.) Rogers, Ann and Michael Tarwater, and Mozelle DePass Griffith in loving memor y of Edward Colville Grif fith, Jr. IMAGE: Gisela Colón (b. 1966 Vancouver, Canada, raised 1967 San Juan, Puerto Rico).

Hyper Ellipsoid (Azure Gold), 2019, blow-molded acr ylic. Courtesy of the artist.

We truly appreciate you!

THANK YOU TO ALL

30K QC

FOR YOUR SUPPORT

Follow along on our journey on Instagram at @qcexclusive

mintmuseum.org

This success allowed them to focus more on what they did best—deliver an exceptional customer experience. By taking the time to learn about the wearer’s personality and the feelings behind the purchase, they could help the buyer find something that was just right. And if a piece needed tweaking? Windsor Jewelers has an easy customization process that allows buyers to add their own personal touch where they see fit.

Buyers who visit one of Windsor Jeweler’s locations in Charlotte or WinstonSalem can expect to work with knowledgeable jewelers who treat them with the same honesty and care that they treat their own families. Plus, they’ll find timeless looks alongside the latest styles of everything from engagement rings and wedding bands to bracelets and timepieces. Windsor Jewelers stocks collections from designers like A. Jaffe, Ashi, Candela, Lauren K, and more. For more information about their current collections or their core values, visit their website. info windsor-jewelers.com @windsorjewelersnc

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WE DON’T FOLLOW TRENDS. WE SET THEM. @royalbuildinggroup | Royal Building Group | Custom Luxury Home Design | www.royalbldgroup.com | 704-582-9113

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F IT N ESS F U EL The Atherton development gains speed with the addition of the beloved Barry’s. words SUNNY HUBLER

In November 2019, Atherton in South End got another resident when Barry’s, an international boutique fitness concept, opened its first-ever North Carolina location.

It’s a workout that launched in L.A. (the original locale turned 21 this year) and has since spread to dozens of other national and international urban markets. Known for its high-intensity, efficient workouts and its upscale amenities, Barry’s has a rabid fan base of dedicated fitness lovers following.

The Charlotte location predictably picked up speed quickly — on any given weekday or weekend, the bright, open lobby area and stocked smoothie bar is home to fitness lovers waiting to enter the Red Room. The

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photos JAMEY PRICE

Red Room, where the workouts commence, is split between treadmills and a free-weight floor work area.

Barry’s is also one of the safest workout options available right now. They pivoted quickly with their relaunch strategy and committed to implementing things like hospital-grade MERV filters, bipolar ionization/UV units, no sharing of equipment or treadmills, and extra time in between classes to allow for hospital-grade, EPA registered cleaning protocols.

Their signature team of skilled local trainers took some time to put down their mics and answer a few of our questions about the Charlotte fitness facility that’s getting all the buzz.

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"Barry’s isn’t a fitness trend. It’s science. And it works."

How is the “bootcamp” style workout different from a typical gym workout?

Barry’s isn’t a fitness trend. It’s science. And it works: It’s an exercise program combining strength and cardio training in a nightclub atmosphere. Each class is designed for beginners, intermediate and advanced clients so no matter your fitness level you will get a challenging and effective workout.

What can someone walking in for the first time expect?

Our high-intensity interval training is results driven, pushing participants to their physical and mental limits, and it’s efficient. A one hour class burns up to 1,000 calories, releases stress, and boosts your resting metabolism even after the class is over. Class is 50% treadmill, 50% strength training (or you

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can opt for “Double Floor” and do 100% strength). Barry's program is designed to hit every muscle in the body, and each day focuses on a different muscle group to ensure clients are seeing full-body results.

What advice would you give to a first-timer, especially if that person is worried about those *scary* treadmills? ;) Don’t be a hero. Take it at your own speed and use our instructors’ speeds as guidance.

Tell us about the Fuel Bar. Why is that part of every Barry’s?

Your workout is only as effective as your nutrition. The Fuel Bar was created to help participants fuel their body before and after

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the Red Room experience. We have partnerships with brands like Super Coffee, Vital Proteins, and more. To put it simply, consuming a protein smoothie immediately post-workout will enhance the benefits of your class. When you push through an intense workout like Barry’s, your muscle fibers begin to break down and endure damage. To repair and rebuild those fibers, a process called, “muscle protein synthesis” needs to happen.

You’ll recover faster and actually gain more strength if you consume protein within 30 minutes. *The Fuel Bar is temporarily closed, but will reopen soon.

How does Barry's train their trainers?

All trainers go through extensive training, guided by our curriculum team. Everyone must spend at least one week in Los Angeles (where the workout was founded) and additional time in New York City working to become the best of the best in the industry.

As trainers, how do you develop relationships with clients as you aid them through their fitness journey?

We strongly encourage all clients to speak to our instructors regarding any injuries or modifications they may need in class.

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The undeniable energy of the Red Room and motivating instructors help get people through the workout enabling them to push past their limits. Our trainers are unique in that they have genuine relationships with each and every client.

With locations in over ten states and internationally, what do you think has made Barry’s Bootcamp so successful?

The secret to our success has been our community. Clients and employees create strong bonds and support each other inside and outside of the studio. We’re an inclusive yet exclusive group that works out hard and has a ton of fun.

Note: Barry's Charlotte is adhering to all local government mandates in an effort to ensure the health and safety of employees, staff and the community. For more information regarding Barry’s safety protocols, please call or email the studio.

info barrys.com @barrys

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R ES TA U R A N T S • D I S H ES • L I B AT I O N S

F O OD & DR I N K

E ATI NG W IT H PU R POSE Modern American fare at Fine & Fettle from Chef Daniel Wheeler.

words ELEANOR MERRELL /

photos JAMEY PRICE

@QCEXCLUSIVE • 55

FOOD & DRINK

S

Stop by Fine & Fettle late in the morning and you’ll discover a cozy coffee shop with pastries and an espresso bar. Return in the evening and you’ll discover something different — an intimate, unpretentious yet sophisticated, farm-to-table restaurant.

At the helm of this transitional operation is Executive Chef Daniel Wheeler, formerly of Dot Dot Dot, one of Charlotte’s favorite cocktail bars. Wheeler, who has lived in North Carolina for much of his life, carries with him a genuine appreciation for the city, particularly the community he has found in the hospitality venture.

It shouldn’t be any surprise, then, that Wheeler’s new venture hinges on the ecosystem of local people, ingredients, and enterprises that thrive in Charlotte and the Piedmont

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more generally. Wheeler tends these connections carefully, whether they’re among members of his kitchen staff or between himself and the farmers who stock his pantry.

“Community — that is the bottom line,” says Wheeler. “I love building relationships with the farmers and artisans we use here. Being able to hear their stories and see their passion sparks my own passion.”

The Fine & Fettle menu harnesses the flavors of seasonal ingredients from local farms to procure an ever-changing selection of dishes. “As long as a particular ingredient can be sourced locally we will have it on the menu. Once its season is over, so is the ingredient until next year,” explains Wheeler, who self-describes as “an ebb and flow type of chef.”

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FOOD & DRINK

“Attempting to open a restaurant in any facet is a difficult thing but during a pandemic has been a test of our drive and determination.”

All dinner dishes are either shareable plates or familystyle platters best described as new American cuisine.

Standout shareables include the burrata (topped with roasted beets, pickled beets, hazelnut, and charred citrus) and the wings (glazed with bourbon teriyaki and topped with benne, scallion, and smoked buttermilk vinaigrette). Be sure to save room for the garganelli family style dish, served with butternut squash mornay, mushrooms, blistered toma-

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to, carrot top pesto, and crunchy walnuts, or the cassoulet, featuring guinea hen, mushrooms, sausage, and green tomato verjus.

Fine & Fettle’s kitchen staff and mixologists meet daily to maximize collaboration and ensure memorable guest experiences, from the first forkful to the last swig.

Of course, opening Fine & Fettle in 2020 has been no small feat for the team.

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FOOD & DRINK

“Community — that is the bottom line. I love building relationships with the farmers and artisans we use here.

Being able to hear their stories and see their passion sparks my own passion.”

“Attempting to open a restaurant in any facet is a difficult thing but, during a pandemic has been a test of our drive and determination,” confesses Wheeler.

But they’ve brought us plenty to look forward to nonetheless: Chef table dinners with menus tailored to each guest’s taste buds, private dinners in on-site board rooms, and many, many more seasonal menus inspired by the people and tastes of the Carolinas.

Daniel Wheeler worked in tandem with Canopy, a concept

by Hilton Hotels, to bring Fine & Fettle into existence. Cater-

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ing in large part to millennials’ thirst for local flare, Canopy seeks to bridge the gap between a reliable, consistent hotel experience and the location-centric experiences that set one excursion apart from another. Currently, Canopy only has outposts in a few flagship cities. You can find their Charlotte location and the Fine & Fettle restaurant in SouthPark. info fineandfettle.com @fineandfettlecharlotte

FOOD & DRINK

SI P LOCA L

T

Sisters Kristina Coughlin and Alena Goncharov share their inspiring origin story and updated business plan for Birch Fine Tea. words JULIA FUNDERBURK

photos JAMEY PRICE

The past months have overwhelmed small business owners with so many obstacles and challenges. No strangers to struggle, sisters Kristina and Alena, the co-owners of Birch Fine Tea, are still inspiring others with their business despite the decision to close their storefront earlier this year.

For their family, tea became a way to heal after Alena’s scary cancer diagnosis and health crises. She beat the odds and, with her sister, started a mission to share the natural benefits of tea and their new beginning with as many people as possible.

At Birch Fine Tea, modern aesthetic meets traditional practice. With over one hundred loose leaf tea options and many accessories to make the perfect blend, this family-owned and operated establishment is confident there is a tea to satisfy each individual’s needs. The sisters sat down with us to answer our questions about Birch’s inception and their recent experience.

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Birch Fine Tea’s inception in 2017 was a very difficult time for your family. How did you start your business in the midst of personal struggle?

When we started Birch Fine Tea, Alena was recovering from ovarian cancer and heart failure while attempting to find a balance in life again. Like most people with a small business idea, it seemed like a distant dream. Growing up in a coffee-centric city, that dream was to bring the beauty of loose leaf tea to the forefront. We knew it was the perfect opportunity to bring Birch Fine Tea into life when the doctors became reluctant to give our family any hope in Alena’s recovery. Our small business isn’t just tea — it’s community, healing, heritage, and survival.

What advice do you have for individuals who are new to shopping for loose leaf tea instead of typical tea bags?

Don’t overthink it! We always hear that customers are intimidated

Photo: Galina Juliana

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FOOD & DRINK

"Our small business isn’t just tea–it’s community, healing, heritage, and survival." to try loose leaf tea because they don't have the right tools to get started. It can be as easy as boiling a pot of water on the stove and straining the leaves.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Birch Fine Tea had to close its store at Camp North End. What have you learned from this decision?

When March arrived, everything was perfect. We finally settled into our first retail location at Camp North End. We were beyond excited to have our customers experience Birch Fine Tea. Unfortunately, that was right at the time of the initial lockdown.

We pivoted our business plan by offering local contactless home delivery, free shipping, and in-store pickup, but we were unable to recover. We found that during these uncertain times, our customers preferred to shop our tea and tools online, which led us to the decision to close.

How does Birch Fine Tea give back to the Charlotte community?

Our mission is to use Birch Fine Tea as a tool to meet the needs of those within our community. In Birch Fine Tea’s short exis-

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tence, we have hosted multiple events to raise funds and supplies for various groups in our city. One fundraising event provided supplies to Metro School of Charlotte, a special needs school.

We are also partnered with Junior Achievement Charlotte to inspire students to plan their career goals outside of high school.

Why is it important for your tea collection to change with new seasons?

Incorporating a handful of new tea blends into the rotation allows us to supply fresh small batch tea options and highlight the current season. Our senses, specifically smell and taste, play an integral part in forming memories. That's why it's so important for us to use seasonal ingredients in our blends. We hope that when you take one sip of our Pumpkin Pie blend, it takes you back to a special moment with your loved ones.

info birchfinetea.com @birchfinetea

P H OTO G R A P H E R : E R I N C OM E R F O R D • D E S I G N / B U I L D : K I M M I E R O K A H R / A D D I S O N B U I L D I N G G R O U P

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FOOD & DRINK

T H E STA N L E Y'S

GA ZPACHO words SUNNY HUBLER / photo JAMEY PRICE

Gazpacho is traditionally a Spanish-style soup made from tomatoes, vegetables, and spices, all served cold. Naturally, The Stanley presented their own spin on this classic dish; whatever you’ve seen before, don’t expect to see again when you enter this restaurant. As unique as their dishes always are, this gazpacho, served only seasonally at The Stanley, is plated with surprising touches of lump crab, nasturtium flowers, almonds, and tomatoes. It’s a bright, vegetable-forward dish that’s the perfect palate cleanser before your entree. Keep an eye out for this to make its reappearance next.

— info — thestanleyclt.com / @_thestanley_

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cuplux.com / @cuplux

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We truly appreciate you!

THANK YOU TO ALL

30K FOR YOUR SUPPORT

Follow along on our journey on Instagram at @qcexclusive

@QCEXCLUSIVE • 67

FOOD & DRINK

ST I R'S

CEV ICH E words SUNNY HUBLER / photo JAMEY PRICE

Located in the RailYard in South End, STIR opened in summer of 2020 for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch service. They’re most well-known for their seafood offerings and the specialty craft cocktails. One particular dish has remained a favorite for us as a starter or a perfect happy hour pairing: The Mexican ceviche. Led by a citrus-cured Mahi and shrimp, the dish is dressed with fresh avocado and a mildly spicy salsa, and then topped with cotija.

Enjoy it with their house chips for a light, refreshing bite.

— info — stircharlotte.com / @stir_charlotte

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FOOD & DRINK

VA NA'S

K EEP IT SPIC Y words JULIA FUNDERBURK photo JAMEY PRICE

Quickly emerging as one of Charlotte’s new favorite restaurants with their woods-inspired dishes and eclectic interior, VANA’s cocktail menu is an equal subject of envy.

VANA opened on the corner of Summit and Tryon this past summer but one of its signature cocktails brings the heat all year long. Keep It Spicy, one of the hottest drinks in mixologist Amanda Britton’s arsenal, is one of our favorites.

Pair this cocktail with their smoky Spanish Chorizo for extra spice or enjoy it unaccompanied. This cocktail comes with the patron’s choice of Real Montelobos Mezcal or Lunazul Resposado, campari, passionfruit, triple spice, and lime.

— info — vanarestaurant.com @vanasouthend

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Mon-Fri 10-7 Sat 10-6 | Sun 12-5 In-Store Shopping, Shipping, Curbside Pickup + Local Delivery

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FOOD & DRINK

M E M BE R S ON LY

PA I N K I L L ER words SUNNY HUBLER / photo JAMEY PRICE

Members Only is a private social lounge and tasting room that opened this year on Central Ave. They serve craft cocktails, local craft beer, and will also roll out their offering of bites from a high-end food truck. The cocktails are stellar, and one of our

top orders at this stylish spot is the Painkiller. Made with sweet Bumbu rum, fresh coconut cream, and fresh pineapple juice, the cocktail is spiced with nutmeg and a cinnamon stick for a little flavorful kick.

Cheers!

— info — membersonlysocial.com / @members.only_clt

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P R O F I L ES • S PA C ES • F E AT U R E D H O M ES

HOM E & DE S IG N

COV ER I NG T H E CA ROL I NAS The art of wallpaper with Jennifer Haigler of Carolina Wallcovering. words SUNNY HUBLER

portrait JAMEY PRICE

@QCEXCLUSIVE • 75

HOME & DESIGN

N Native Charlottean Jennifer Haigler started her business in the footsteps of her mother. Theirs is the story of a small family business, started as a way to support the family, that grew into a successful enterprise and an artistic outlet.

Jennifer Haigler, who now owns and operates Carolina Wallcovering, first was exposed to wallpapering in the early 80s as a child when her mother started a business of the same purpose.

“She was a single mom and needed, not only a job to pay the bills, but a flexible schedule as well,” Jennifer explains. “I worked with her every summer, picking up trash and washing sponges... Fast forward 25 years, mom has retired and I've not only carried on her expertise, but I've expanded upon it.”

Jennifer’s Carolina Wallcovering specializes in installing untrimmed/pretrimmed designer goods, grasscloths, fabrics, murals, non-wovens, cork, Stikwood and more. She is constantly pursuing new products, styles, and installation techniques to tie together one of the most important pieces of a build or redesign: the walls.

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photo of space MIRANDA REGER PHOTOGRAPHY design JK DESIGN

Tell us about the connection between your mother’s work and your decision to work in wallpapering, too.

I never intended to follow in her footsteps… quite the opposite. I swore I’d never do wallpaper, and she reminds me of that often! I started working with my mom when I was about 10 or 12 years old, cleaning up trash, rinsing sponges and eventually learned pattern repeats and how to paste the paper. In my teens, I waited tables and worked at a bank but wasn’t happy. My mom told me to come work for her until I figured out what else I wanted to do, so I did… and I never left.

Why wallpaper, in particular, and what is something about the design choice that you think people might be surprised to learn?

Wallcovering is artwork on your walls.

The way it transforms a space immediately, you don’t get the same with paint.

I think people would be surprised at how many options they have compared to what was available years ago. Now, there’s an unlimited market where you have geometrics, corks, glass beads and even artists that have their artwork printed on canvas or grasscloth substrates.

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HOME & DESIGN

"Wallcovering is artwork on your walls. The way it transforms a space immediately, you don’t get the same with paint." of the pattern on the walls is a very important aspect of wallcoverings. Balancing and centering the pattern on the wall as you come in the room, taking a mirror or artwork into consideration when determining pattern placement and making sure you don’t lose an important part of the pattern in a doorway or window are very important to the final look. Covering the switch plates and air vents with wallcoverings to match the pattern on the wall is my specialty—they disappear!

design FAITH + DESIGN

How long does it typically take to complete a project?

Most jobs only take a day, but it also depends on the size of the room, what you’re cutting around (cabinets, countertops, intricate moldings, etc.), and the type of wallcovering being installed.

Some wallcoverings are extremely delicate, tear easily, can require liner paper to be installed the day before and some can’t get wet on the facing so you must work “clean” when pasting it. There are a lot of variables when determining how long a job will take.

What lessons have you learned owning your own business?

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It’s not as easy as it seems! The installation side of the business is the easy part, and having to wear many hats is not.

The paperwork is a lot, especially since I can only get to it in the evenings, which means many late nights. I’ve hired help for other areas of the business, like bookkeeping, social media and a part time assistant, which helps a lot.

Where do you typically draw design or artistic inspiration from?

As far as artistic inspiration, that comes when it's time to install the wallcovering.

As the installer, I’m not involved in the paper selection process, but what most people don’t realize is that the placement

What is a typical day at work like for you? How many people work with you, or on your team?

A typical day for me is generally by myself as far as in the field. I do have another installer I call on for larger jobs, but for the most part it’s just me for now. When I arrive at a job, I go over the room(s) with the client to answer any questions as well as ask a few of my own, and then I go over placement of the pattern and what their thoughts are. Once I find a place to set up my workspace, I begin prepping the walls and laying out the pattern and placement of seams in the room before I start cutting and pasting the wallcovering. I generally work from 9-4:30, but some days are more/less. Once I’m home, it’s mom-mode and then on to paperwork after the kids are in bed. info carolinawallcovering.com @carolinawallcovering

HOME & DESIGN

RUG COM FORT words LIZA CARRASQUILLO / photo DUSTIN PECK

A good room design blends each element in it seamlessly so that the space looks cohesive. No matter the style of the interior, each individual piece works with the rest of the space in some way. In some cases, this means that a single table or lighting fixture can make or break a room’s look. For this dining room, that element was the Couture Knots Tamarin rug.

The beautiful cream-colored rug balanced out the room’s blue wallpaper and warm-colored wood floors. By carrying that cream color into other areas of the room, such as the draperies from Lee Jofa and the chair fabrics from Kravet and S. Harris,

the designers could bring in more of those dark wood accents, as well.

The large round table and custom cabinetry both show off that dark wood and give the space a modern feel. The table, along with the unique chandelier hanging just above it, also make the room feel inviting, as if it was meant for conversation—in fact, that’s just what the clients had in mind when they redesigned the space in 2018. Together, everything in the room becomes an elegant space that still feels comfortable and casual enough to enjoy a good conversation with family and friends.

— info — coutureknots.com / @coutureknot

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HOME & DESIGN

GR A N DE ST Y L E words SAM HUSTED / photo MICHAEL BLEVINS

From the talented team over at Grande Custom Builders comes this incredible, open-concept kitchen. True to Grande's standards, this spacious kitchen was built with both style and functionality in mind. It features a large waterfall island that is perfectly suited for the at-home cook. A quad of large windows

illuminates the space with bright, natural light, while a trio of beautiful pendant lights acts as backup. This kitchen is made complete with the inclusion of the custom cabinetry (with ample storage), the unique subway tile backsplash, the beautiful bar stools, and the stunning oak floors.

— info — grandebuilders.com / @grandecustombuilders

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HOME & DESIGN

T R A DITIONA L LY I N V ITI NG words LIZA CARRASQUILLO / photo MICHAEL BLEVINS

​ ayton Campbell, the owner of Charlotte-based L J.Layton Interiors, is a native Charlottean and proud of it. He earned his Bachelors at UNC Greensboro and then moved to New York City where he studied Interior Design at the prestigious Parsons School of Design. Layton works across a broad variety of design styles, juxtaposing a collection of varying styles for a genuinely personalized result.

This soft, inviting living room, completed in the summer

of 2019, is the perfect example of Layton’s touch. His clients, two empty nesters, wanted a traditional-style home that could also be light and airy. Layton used several formal style pieces but grounded them with more casual finishes and fabrics. A dab of muted aqua runs throughout for warmth and interest. The rug is Stark Carpet, the chair is Hickory, and the cocktail table is Ambella Home. Local builder Kingswood built the home and Louise Leeke led the hardline design.

— info — jlaytoninteriors.com / @jlaytoninteriors

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@QCEXCLUSIVE • 85

HOME & DESIGN

E M BODY EL EGA NCE words SAM HUSTED / photo LOLI PHOTOGRAPHY

Over the years, Arcadia Custom Homes has made a name for themselves here in Charlotte. They’ve built a reputation through their stunning custom-built homes, their high level of expertise, and, of course their dedication to customer service. Most recently they’ve added the title of National Custom Builder of the Year to their ever-growing list of accolades.

When it comes to luxury homes, few builders can capture the elegance that Arcadia-built houses embody. This kitchen, for example, is where luxury meets function. The gorgeous arched brick ceiling is a testament to excellent craftsmanship. Other details include the custom cabinets, an oversized island and custom table, and the brass accents and stunning lighting which can be seen throughout.

— info — arcadiahomesinc.com / @arcadiahomesinc

86 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM

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Sightline Steel Doors understands the importance of versatility and uniqueness. For that reason we offer a range of profiles from tubular steel to thermally broken Bronze profiles. We specialize in custom doors specific to your project as well as stock doors to accommodate your timeline..

Talk to one of our sales associates today for more information • JimmyBenham@sightlinesteeldoors.com 704-412-4007 • sightlinesteeldoors.com •

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@QCEXCLUSIVE • 87

A C C O M M O DAT I O N S • P L A C ES • A D V E N T U R ES

T R AV E L

T H E SOU T H ER N HOST The Carolina Treehouse is The Southern Host’s newest Piedmont vacation destination. words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos JAMEY PRICE

@QCEXCLUSIVE • 89

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There are few things as refreshing as a change of scenery.

To leave the mundane views of the everyday and instead behold something as minute as a different kitchen countertop can mean a world of difference in creativity, productivity, mood, and more.

The Southern Host, led by local Charlotteans Alyssa and Brian Foushee, provides just such an experience only 15 minutes from Uptown. Pull down a shaded drive tucked into a forgotten forest and you’ll see a singular spire competing with the canopy for blue sky access. Inch closer and a porch will appear around the pillar, coaxing travelers ever nearer.

Dubbed “The Carolina Treehouse,” this hideaway offers a serene experience not unlike a treehouse, but for grown-ups who want their serenity to come accompanied by creature comforts like a swinging, outdoor daybed and a beautifully decorated interior.

Surrounded by quiet woods and nature’s calm, you’d never believe you were within the 485 loop unless you looked at a map. The Carolina Treehouse is perched on the edge of a small pond, where a smooth dock extends toward the wooded shore opposite the house. At this hideaway, there’s every opportunity to connect with nature. Take in the view from the Treehouse’s wraparound porch while cooking dinner on the outdoor grill. Or recline on the hammock embedded in the porch’s floor for a clear view of the night sky.

Inside the Treehouse, more magic awaits. The space is small but never feels cramped. In fact, an earthy color palette

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and cozy textures like wicker, wood, and fur make it hard to tear oneself from the coziness of the indoors in pursuit of the property’s splendor. Each interior detail is an intentional choice, one made by Alyssa Foushee who, along with her husband Brian, has made a name for herself by curating outstanding properties.

Alyssa and Brian’s company, The Southern Host, sprang into being at the end of 2017. The couple had designs to relocate but couldn’t bring themselves to say goodbye completely to their home. They decided to hold onto the house and list it on Airbnb. Thus began The Southern Host.

Now, the couple owns more than five homes, four of which are in the Charlotte area. Each effuses the charm and comfort that embodies Southern hospitality, plus Alyssa’s impeccable eye for interior design, which is why it’s no surprise that their listings have ranked in the top 2% on Airbnb.

The Southern Host homes offer the kind of experience you might expect at a world class vacation destination.

However, they do so just a stone’s throw from your Queen City neighborhood. Charlotteans can enjoy the luxury of a vacation rental and the transformative power of new scenery without ever booking airfare or enduring a long car ride. info thesouthernhost.com / @thesouthernhost

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A V ISIT TO T H E HOLY CIT Y The very best of Charleston’s shops, hotels, and restaurants in 2021. words L AURYNN HARKINS

Charleston, SC is a beloved travel destination for all.

With such a rich history and vibrant atmosphere, Charleston has been welcoming visitors for decades. While it may seem that a city so rooted in its history hasn’t changed much, that is far from true. In fact, Charleston is always growing and expanding. That’s why, if you haven’t paid a visit to this charming coastal town in a while, you may want to start planning your next getaway. To help you get started, we have put together a guide to some of our favorite shops, hotels and restaurants.

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photos JAMEY PRICE

Where to Shop Old Whaling Company Since 2012, Old Whaling Company has been a Charleston favorite. This handmade health and beauty supply store recently opened a location on King Street. This brick and mortar location in the downtown area makes it easy to stop in and pick up one of their most popular products. We recommend one of their seainspired candles or bar soaps.

WINDOW & DOOR PROS Established 1996

For 25 years Window & Door Pros has been serving Charlotte builders and homeowners with the finest selection of windows, doors, and architectural products.

Showroom: 1141 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28205 | 704.344.1875 | Mike@WindowAndDoorPros.Com | WindowAndDoorPros.com

TR AVEL House of Nomad Charlotte based interior designers Kelley and Berkeley opened House of Nomad in Charleston in October of 2020. Here you can find unique home goods inspired by their world travels. You can shop by country, peruse the pre-selected collections, or simply browse and see what strikes you. House of Nomad has added several new products since landing in the Holy City, so you’re sure to find a great new piece for your home no matter what it is you’re searching for.

Other shops we recommend include Hampden, M. Dumas & Sons, Worthwhile, Billy Ried, David Skinner Antiques, and so much more.

Where To Stay Emeline Emeline, a stylish, boutique hotel in the thriving downtown district, officially opened this past July. Emeline has worked hard to create a cozy atmosphere amongst the busy, historic Charleston streets. Once there, guests can enjoy ample amenities and a comfortable stay, plus a drink on their beautiful outdoor patio and access to Frannie and the Fox, Emeline’s on-site restaurant.

Planters Inn A Charleston staple since 1884, Planters Inn reopened in the fall of 2020 after undergoing major renovations. A stay at this iconic hotel just got better with even more spacious hotel suites now available.

These upgraded hotel suites ensure you have a private oasis amongst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Other hotels we recommend include The French Quarter Inn, The Spectator, The Harbourview Inn, The Grand Bohemian, The Vendue, The Dewberry, and Zero George and so many more.

Charleston favorite: 5Church. Opened in mid-August of 2020, The Tempest has set out to serve its guests a seasonal seafood menu that’s locally sourced and sustainable. Their raw and roast menu offers guests a new way to enjoy the seafood of the area. You also won’t want to skip out on dessert, where you can enjoy a variety of homemade ice cream flavors.

Jackson Street cottage area’s history, while also creating an inviting dining and entertainment environment.

It was deemed Charleston’s “Backyard Party” because guests can listen to live music while enjoying creative twists on favorite shareable dishes such as nachos, street tacos, and charcuterie boards.

Tobin’s Market Tobin’s Market was launched in September of 2020. This unique restaurant worked hard to preserve the beloved

Other favorites include Melfi's, FIG, The Ordinary, 167 RAW, Leon's, Lewis Barbecue, Purlieu, Chubby Fish and so many more.

Where to Eat Tempest Tempest is the newest restaurant venture from the chefs that started a Charlotte and

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STARTING 2021 WITH LOVE WE CAN HELP FILL YOUR HOME WITH LOVE

RICK AND KRISTEN MAGLIOCCA

A Magliocca Co.

1930 ABBOTT ST., UNIT 401 – CHARLOTTE, NC 28203 980-237-2670 – WWW.NEWLIFEBUILDINGSUPPLIES.COM

TR AVEL

W I N TER I N T H E OBX

C

Enjoy your trip to the Outer Banks to the fullest with these wintertime activities. words LIZA CARRASQUILLO

photos JP GRICE

Coastal adventures aren’t just for the summer months, especially in North Carolina. The Outer Banks offers a wide range of activities that visitors can enjoy during the off-season.

To experience the Outer Banks to the fullest this winter, take a look at our seasonally-appropriate travel recommendations.

See and Learn About Wild Horses As descendants of the Spanish Mustangs abandoned off of North Carolina’s coast, these wild horses have been calling the Outer Banks home for hundreds of years. There are plenty of tours available to view the herd at a safe distance, including those run by Wild Horse Adventure Tours and Corolla Wild Horse Tours.

Camp at Cape Hatteras National Seashore Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a National Park with a sprawling campground open to the public. Cooler temperatures and less crowds make winter the perfect time to trek through the park at leisure. Those with an off-road vehicle can even drive out to select areas of the beach. The Park is home to three historic lighthouses that are open for viewing.

Tour the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Located on Cape Hatteras National Seashore land, the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is the seasonal home to around 400 bird species. Visitors who come between December and February can expect to see thousands of pintails, northern shovelers, ring necked ducks, tundra swans, and even greenwinged teals — the smallest dabbling ducks in North America.

Visit the Spot Where the Wright Brothers Made History The Wright Brothers National Memorial is a must-see destination for history buffs and families with kids. This park memorializes the place the Wright Brothers first took flight. Visitors can learn about their scientific journey in the park’s museum while also viewing historical replicas of their living quarters and first flying machine.

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Visit the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum The Outer Banks has gone by many different names throughout history, but few have stuck as well as The Graveyard of the Atlantic. This aptly named stretch of coastline holds the ruins of over 3,000 shipwrecks spanning all the way back to the 1500s. Museum goers can learn the true tales behind these wrecks and the conditions that made the area so treacherous for boats. Kids can even enjoy a museum scavenger hunt and special craft events while they tour.

Explore the Crystal Coast The Crystal Coast, with more than 85 miles of enticing NC beaches, has nine distinct regions. One of our favorites, accessible with a boat ride three miles off-shore, are the barrier islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. There are many activities to be enjoyed on this stretch of coastline: Horse watching, shelling, fishing, birding, camping, lighthouse climbing, and touring historic villages. 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. The remote, pristine beaches are the perfect escape for anyone looking for some peace and true relaxation.

USA Today’s Best Beach in North Carolina

Congrats.

You just found Emerald Isle.

Now it’s time to BookTheCoast.com and visit North Carolina’s Southern Outer Banks.

North Carolina’s

southern outer banks

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THE GOODYEAR HOUSE

A F R E SH STA RT Visit some of Charlotte’s top spots to eat well, and kick the New Year off with a delicious and healthy start. list compiled by SUNNY HUBLER, JILLIAN MITRECIC AND KENNEDI JACKSON photos JAMEY PRICE, REMY THURSTON, AND THE PLAID PENGUIN

As Charlotte residents continue to pay more and more attention to their wellness, local restaurants have found unique ways to revitalize their menu items and concepts.

We took some of our favorite spots to eat and found their healthiest, most delicious dishes. From lighter, fresh dishes like whole fish and stuffed avocado to more traditional takes on “healthy” dishes like salads and veggies burgers, these are the best bites you can find that will taste just as good as they make you feel.

The Stanley From Chef Paul Verica and his talented team at The Stanley comes this super-stylized take on a beet salad. The “roasted Small City Farms beets” come with house ricotta, arugula, nasturtium, parsley, balsamic, and a sprinkle of flowers. thestanleyclt.com

Eight + Sand Kitchen Eight + Sand Kitchen uses the freshest ingredients to bring high quality meals made from scratch to our plates. Their Eight + Sand salad, mixed with romaine, kale, tri-color quinoa, sweet potato, pickled onion, charred brussel sprouts, roasted cauliflower, toasted sunflower seeds, and vegan green goddess dressing. eightandsandkitchen.com Noble Smoke Noble Smoke may be Barbecue-heavy, but Chef Noble was careful to accommodate different eaters, as well. The Noble Smoke salad comes with mixed greens, cucumber, radish, and celery and you have the option to add smoked turkey or Joyce Farms chicken for a lean, right-off-the-smoker protein that is also healthy: no hormones, no antibiotics, no growth stimulants, and no chemicals. noblesmokebarbecue.com

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LOTUS SOUL

VANA There are so many delicious options to try at this new South End restaurant led by the talented Chef Michael Noll.

The Beet Cured Salmon is a must-try brunch item at Vana in Charlotte for a healthy, delicious start to your day. It is paired with capers, pickled red onion, bitter greens, and a soft boiled egg. vanarestaurant.com Lotus Soul Organic and good vibes are sure to be found in any of the smoothies at Lotus Soul Cafe.

Try the Lucky Green smoothie for a healthy meal substitution. It's a pineapple spinach smoothie with ginger, avocado, spirulina, coconut water, bee pollen, and honey. lotussoulcafe.com Living Kitchen Who says burgers can’t be healthy? Living Kitchen’s fire & brimstone burger is made with a quinoa and millet burger patty, and topped with chipotle sunflower seed hummus, tomato, red onion, guaca-

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mole, sprouts, and fire & brimstone sauce. livingkitchen.com Yafo Kitchen Yafo Kitchen is the Mediterranean street food you’ve been missing. The cauliflower stuffed pita, made with cauliflower, hummus, cucumber, tomato salad, and green schug, is one of the chef’s features offered on the menu. yafokitchen.com Verde Salad lovers will be dying to try one of Verde’s signature creations, providing salads topped, chopped, or wrapped with fresh bread. The Southern Harvest has mesclun, roasted chicken, apples, pecans, cornbread croutons, and to top it all off, a sweet tea vinaigrette. eatatverde.com Fern, Flavors from the Garden Fern, Flavors from the Garden has a variety of healthy menu options to still give you a taste of home. The chimichanga

contains tofu sofritas, mixed vegetables, cashew queso and avocado, and served with salsa and tortilla chips. fernflavors.com Green Brothers Juice Co. Green Brothers Juice Co. strives to empower people to be healthy and happy through their nutrient dense recipes.

Try the Crave-a-Bowl, made with acai, blueberry, banana, cold brew coffee and almond milk blended, and topped with strawberry, hazelnut spread, coconut flake, hemp seed, granola and honey. greenbrothersjuice.com Clean Juice With over 100 locations, Clean Juice offers organic ingredients in their salads, juices, and smoothies for a healthy meal option. The Healthy Heart One smoothie contains himalayan pink sea salt, organic almond butter, organic almond milk, organic avocado, organic cinnamon, and organic maple syrup. cleanjuice.com

LIT TLE MAMA'S

FAHRENHEIT

Pure Pizza Pure Pizza’s commitment to sustainability is not just to the environment, but to offering farm-2-fork pizzas, salads, and sandwiches for their customers. One of their vegan and vegetarian craft pizzas includes the She-Rex, mozzarella, mushrooms, onion, peppers, topped with greens tossed in lemon vinaigrette. purepizzaclt.com Fahrenheit One of our favorite restaurants, Fahrenheit, has one of the best views of the entire city from its patio, and some of our favorite dishes as well. The entrees are just delicious. Some of our favorites are the soy glazed salmon and the slow braised wagyu short ribs, but we also enjoy their healthy options including the rooftop house salad, the roasted beet and couscous salad, and the Harvest Vegetable Plate. chefroccowhalen.com Little Mama’s Italian food doesn’t have to be heavy:

This simple broiled salmon from Little Mama’s is a perfect example of that.

Served with Faroe Island salmon alongside an olive pesto and a warm quinoa salad, it’s a satisfying meal served with clean ingredients. littlemamasitalian.com

Plant Joy Plant Joy brings their healthy vegan dishes with a twist to Camp North End. The Falafel Stack is served nacho style with all fresh and vegan ingredients in their Mediterranian style dishes. plantjoyclt.com

Roots Cafe Roots Cafe brings locally sourced ingredients handcrafted with love to the table.

Dig into the Avocado Chicken Wrap, composed of grilled chicken, local greens, applewood smoked bacon, avocado, and cracked pepper dressing. rootscafesouthend.com

Oh My Soul Noda’s first fully vegan restaurant, Oh My Soul, offers vegan burgers with a South African twist that you cannot miss. The Waka Waka ‘vurger’ is made with their South African spicy lentil patty served on fresh cilantro, tomato, red onion, chilli mayo, and then topped with sliced avocado, chakalaka, and chili flakes. ohmysoulusa.com

Chopt Get a taste of the West Coast in Charlotte with one of Chopt’s Destination California salad bowls. The Baja Shrimp Taco Salad is made with wild-caught shrimp, corn, watermelon radish, jalapeno, tortilla chips, romaine, cabbage and cilantro blend and add on the baja sauce for some extra flavor. choptsalad.com

Kid Cashew Kid Cashew offers quinoa stuffed avocados that are filled with cucumber salsa, lettuce, and a chipotle sauce that is sure to leave you feeling stuffed and satisfied with such a clean meal. kidcashew.com

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Flower Child Flower Child is the perfect stop in South End to get your daily dose of vegetables and enjoy a delicious meal at the same time. The Glow Bowl is a vegetarian and gluten free staple at Flower Child, containing spicy sweet potato noodles, bok choy, zucchini, onion, jalapeño, shiitake mushroom, coconut milk, and sunflower butter. iamaflowerchild.com Bean Vegan Bean Vegan is the place to go when you are testing out your vegan diet or wanting to explore the alternatives to meat, the menu was made for vegan based diets and non-vegan diets, so you can bring anyone there to enjoy the vegan meals. The cheesesteak hoagie is an example of an atypi-

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FIN & FINO

cal vegan meal, made with: seitan grilled with peppers, onions, mushrooms, Daiya mozzarella, vegenaise, shredded lettuce, tomato, and onion to give you the glorious taste of a “healthy” cheesesteak. eatatbean.com Rico’s Acai Rico’s Acai offers a variety of acai bowls, including a Butter Bro Bowl, that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping healthy at the same time. The Butter Bro Bowl contains acai puree, banana, granola, almond butter, peanut butter, Nutella, and hemp seeds. ricosacai.com Copain Copain’s hummus bowl is an ideal grabn-go option that’s always available at the

Copain retail shop, although flavors and ingredients may change based on seasons and availability from local farms to ensure you the freshest version. copaingatherings.com STIR Located in the RailYard in South End, STIR has seafood options for all times of the day. The avocado & mahi ceviche is a go-to dish for lunch or dinner, made with mahi, avocado, red onion, sweet potato, and green tiger's milk. stircharlotte.com Crisp Crisp offers healthy soups, salads, and wraps that are great for someone on the go. The Asian salad is a staple dish that bursts with flavor, filled with chicken,

CLEAN JUICE

FINE & FE T TLE

spinach, romaine, sunflower kernels, mandarin oranges, cucumbers, chinese noodles, and soy ginger dressing, this salad is a must have. crispfoods.com

and perfectly fresh, served with sushi rice, furikake, pickled jalapeno, and bibb lettuce. finandfino.com

The Goodyear House The Goodyear House combines Asian and southern cuisine and has meals for every palette including steak lovers and vegans. The smoked cashew mac and cheese is a go to vegan dish topped with chile breadcrumbs, this dish is sure to curb those mac and cheese cravings with a healthy, but delicious substitute. thegoodyearhousecharlotte.com

B.Good B.Good, brings you a clean menu that uses fresh ingredients and turns their classic meals in a clean and healthy dish. The Spicy Avocado Lime bowl is vegan and gluten free, made with avocados, black bean corn salsa, sauteed veggies, quinoa, kale, tomatoes, cilantro, lime, chipotle puree, and a chipotle vinaigrette. bgood.com

Fin & Fino The tuna and salmon poke bowl is always a light lunch winner. It’s crisp

Freshii Freshii is more than just your typical juice bar; they bring quality wraps, bur-

ritos, and bowls that are stuffed with healthy ingredients so that you can grab a bite to eat when you are getting your favorite juice. The Metaboost wraps are made with spinach, kale, field greens, goat cheese, mango, almonds, carrots, edamame, and balsamic vinaigrette giving it a sweet and tangy taste. freshii.com Fine & Fettle A coffee house in the morning and a gastro lounge at night, Fine & Fettle, offers a variety of southern style meals including a beet salad that you don’t want to miss. Burrata is served with roasted beets, pickled beets, hazelnut, and charred citrus, making it the perfect start to your meal. fineandfettle.com

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R E L A X A N D R E J U V E N AT E The best Charlotte spots for self-care for a new year, new you. words KENNEDI JACKSON & JILLIAN MITRECIC / photos JAMEY PRICE AND KYO H. NAM

E

Enter the new year feeling rejuvenated and relaxed with one of Charlotte’s beauty, wellness, or medical spas. Looking for a good facial, or need to work out some kinks in your joints?

These providers can cater to you. Experience the ultimate selfcare with this list of spas throughout the Queen City.

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Selenite Beauty Selenite Beauty is a high quality beauty and cosmetic store located in South End, Charlotte. Selenite offers a variety of cosmetics and wellness supplements along with in house make-up artists that will help ensure natural beauty each time you visit. Book an appointment or sign up for a class today to experience the positive vibes at Selenite Beauty. selenitebeauty.com Emerson Joseph Emerson Joseph is one of Charlotte's top salons with a variety of men’s grooming, spa, and esthetics packages.

Emerson Joseph is a high-quality salon that turns a men’s haircut into a luxury experience, full of scalp massages, a cold beer, and a hot facial towel. emersonjoseph.com Toccare Experience all things green beauty at one of Charlotte’s premier boutique and day spas. Toccare strives to pro-

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vide guests with an experience that nourishes both the body and the mind.

Enjoy a variety of facial options, get a customized massage, or take advantage of their quality hair removal services.

Self-care through skincare is their goal. toccaredayspa.com

instant lab that analyzes the change of your skin over time, so that they can use the most cutting-edge technology to create a specialized skin care plan just for you. Stop in this new year to book a consultation with the estheticians for an introductory facial. toskaspa.com

Spa at Ballantyne The Spa at Ballantyne dubs itself the destination day spa for wellness and relaxation. It provides a variety of services, catered to both men and women.

Guests can choose from an array of relaxing body therapies, massages, and more. They may also enjoy the resort’s sauna, pools, dining, and fitness facilities. theballantynehotel.com

Idolize Spa Jami Svay, an internationally-acclaimed makeup artist, brought her talents to Huntersville and opened Idolize Spa. Idolize offers waxing, tinting, lash extensions, and many more amenities in their sheek and stylish salon. Book a monthly special to save big on their many perks and get some of the best looking brows in Charlotte. idolizespa.com

Toska European Spa Toska European Spa is located in the heart of Dilworth, offering European skincare products and unique facial techniques to provide the best experience. Owner Toska Husted has a skin

KUR Health Spa Looking to relax your body in natural ways? KUR Health Spa provides holistic services, designed to help patrons achieve optimum health. They provide services you may not find at your tra-

IDOLIZE SPA

TOSK A EUROPEAN SPA

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RE SALON

ditional spa, such as magnetic therapy, salt therapy, and infrared therapy. Experience rejuvenation at this wellness spa in Charlotte. kurhealthspa.com Modern Salon & Spa With four locations in North Carolina, Modern Salon & Spa is available as a retreat from the everyday. The salon offers hair treatments and styling, while the spa offers everything from facials to nail services. Enhanced treatments are provided as well. Relax and let the experienced team of Modern Salon & Spa cater to your wellbeing. modernsalonandspa.com Palestra Boutique Spa Palestra Boutique Spa delivers luxury spa services in contemporary elegance.

Their extensive list of services include facials, massage therapy, hair removal, body treatments, lash and brow services, and other high-end treatments. Whether for yourself, a couple, or a group,

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customize your relaxing experience and be pleasantly transformed. palestraboutiquespa.com Om Spa Whether you’re looking for a therapeutic massage or want to relax in the sauna, the Om Spa will help you go into the new year feeling refreshed. It is a med spa, day spa, and chiropractic care all rolled in one. Guests can try acupuncture to release tension in the body or be rejuvenated in the salt room. Explore an array of services at the spa. omspacharlotte.com Kenna Kunijo Kenna Kunijo is a salon that is about more than just great hair. Kenna Kunijo already expanded their three year old business to thirteen employees and a booming list of appointments. Kenna Kunijo wants to be more than just a place you go to get your haircut; they want you to leave with a feeling of empowerment and self-love. Stop by their

new South End location to change the way you get your haircut and walk into 2021 feeling like a new person. kennakunijo.com Satin Med Spa Satin Med Spa has all of your medical aesthetic and laser specialty needs. A team of highly trained medical professionals take care of you whether it’s Botox or laser hair removal. If you’re looking to get your best and healthiest skin, Satin Med Spa can help. They provide facial treatments and top of the line medical skin care products.

Check out one of Charlotte’s premiere medical spa. satinmedspa.com The Invigory Invigorate your mind and body through natural healing at this Charlotte wellness studio. The Invigory provides treatments for the body such as cryotherapy, compression therapy, a salt room, and an infrared sauna.

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Patrons can also leave feeling refreshed and beautified with one of the spa’s facials. Step into the new year invigorated, inside and out. theinvigory.com Skin by Blair Skin by Blair sells medical grade skincare products inside an aesthetic-forward boutique located in Dilworth. With services like injectables and dermal fillers, Blair Hayes is known for her ability to provide a natural look that’s sure to make you feel refreshed. Schedule an appointment to start the new year off with healthy and glowing skin. skinbyblair.com Re Salon Re Salon, located in a restored fire station, brings a rustic look to a modern spa. From blowouts to Botox, Re Salon offers a wide variety of services including monthly membership programs that bundle these services to help you save in the long run. Re Salon will leave you feel-

ing radiant and relaxed as you head into the new year. resalonandmedspa.com Layne Barter Makeup No matter what your makeup or aesthetic needs look like, a one-on-one professional consultation is always a good idea to refresh and update your look or to prepare for an important event. Layne Barter, of Layne Barter Makeup, will come to you, in your home, your hotel, or at your event to perfect your makeup and skincare routine. laynebarter.com Infinity MedSpa + Wellness Treat yourself to one of Charlotte’s most innovative spas, Infinity brings to you an elite team of experts ready to cater to your needs. They specialize in combining the latest in aesthetic medical technology with luxe spa treatments to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Infinity also offers customizable facials so every single client’s needs are met and their skin

feels better than ever. infinitymedspaandwellness.com The Spa at Ritz Carlton Looking for a vacation from 2020? The Spa at Ritz Carlton is the perfect place to be as you head into the new year with new goals. The spa offers many different lounges and rooms along with amenities like massages, facials, and manicures.

Relax and unwind at one of the most luxurious hotels in Charlotte. ritzcarlton.com Be Pretty by Lindsey Regan Thorne Be Pretty, founded by Lindsey Regan Thorne, is a team of beauty professionals who offer services from wedding day makeup to a session for your Saturday night date. Enjoy a makeover that makes you truly feel special by the time you leave. While getting your makeup done, feel free to catch up on Lindsey’s blog that features the latest makeup and skincare trends. lindseyreganthorne.com

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K IC K STA RT YOU R N E W Y E A R'S R E S OLU T ION Looking to break a sweat in 2021? These local gyms and studios are ready to help you. list compiled by JULIA FUNDERBURK , JUSTIN NORWOOD / photos JAMEY PRICE

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JAMIE SCOT T FITNESS

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Sweat with the best gyms and fitness studios in the greater Charlotte area this year. Looking for a new routine that sticks? Wishing to revamp an old one? Our top 30 gym list is the perfect place to start: Add a yoga f low to your morning, or push your limits after work with a strength-training class. We recommend visiting a few different studios so you can find your best fit—physically and mentally.

Barry's The popular wellness brand Barry's opened in South End to excitement because of their high energy, intense interval

training that integrates science with top instructors. You are sure to see results due to the 50% treadmill 50% strength training regimen along with the strong community support that Barry's prides itself on. barrys.com Jamie Scott Fitness With over sixty class options each week, JSF is a boutiquestyle gym with inspired instructors who always put clients first, promoting self-empowerment through training and customized nutrition plans. jamiescottfitness.com

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STAX All committed individuals are guaranteed to succeed at STAX where strength and power workouts are uniquely crafted and expertly coached for the collective goal of positive lifestyle change. Give Charlotte’s most recognized bootcamp workout a try. staxcharlotte.com Hive Fitness Moments away from the South End area, Hive Fitness reinvented the typical gym membership by combining barre studios, bootcamps, cycling classes, yoga practices, and an open gym all into one cohesive facility. hivefitnessclt.com The Fitness Factory This well-equipped gym in NoDa teaches proper lifting forms and functional strength training to help all individuals achieve safe and attainable results in their Olympic lifting classes and open gym. fitnessfactorycharlotte.com THE JAM: CLT Sweat, tone, and dance to upbeat songs

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you know and love at locally-led classes for individuals of all skill and fitness levels. Founded in 2016, THE JAM:CLT is known for its sixty-minute classes with famous R&B, hip-hop, and reggae tunes. thejamclt.com Charlotte Athletic Club This Uptown Charlotte gym with cycling, boxing, TRX group classes—and more—emphasizes the importance of a strong community and focuses on how motivation comes from others in addition to yourself. charlotteathleticclub.com Hayastan MMA One of North Carolina’s premier mixed martial arts studios blends boxing and karate with wrestling and Judo in their non-traditional kickboxing/MMA class for a well-rounded and intricate approach to fitness and wellness. hayastanmma.com Urban MVMNT Sweat locally at this fitness center-coffee shop hybrid that brings the heat in their

studios with Lift+Move and Flex classes, and offers post-workout coffee in their onsite cafe. urbanmvmnt.com BFit Dance Experience the culture of Bollywood at BFit’s Dance’s studio where simple movements meet high intensity as artistic elements from South Asia serve as the backdrop for fun and sweat-filled dance classes.

First Wind Fitness This cycle-focused studio in Huntersville incorporates barre, strength training, and deep stretching in their programs for all-inclusive training. fitt.co DatFit Experienced instructor Lynn Fernandez accommodates everyone by ditching fancy gym equipment in her Ballantyne studio, shifting her training focus instead to simple yet effective TRX and barre exercises that help her clients gain strength and flexibility. datfit.net

HUSTLE HOUSE

Hustle House Experience high-energy cardio, strength, and HIIT classes to take your hustle to the next level for better training and optimal results. hustlehousefitness.com Dyme Boxing All participants are encouraged to test the limits of their mental and physical strength with Dyme’s one-hour boxing classes where the body and mind work together to perform under pressure. dymeboxing.com Teal Fitness Teal Fitness uses a thirty-five minute program as the foundation of their strength, cardio, and speed training so you can experience a balanced workout whenever it fits your schedule and however it fits your needs. tealfitness.com Lewis Fitness Owned by CPT Preston Lewis, Lewis Fitness offers both solo and group training and in person or Zoom classes. Training

programs and focus range from cross training, boxing/kickboxing, agility and strength training, weight gain/loss and general fitness. Lewis Fitness is often recognized as one of Charlotte's premier personal training studios. crazytrainerdude.com Melting Point Located in Huntersville, Melting Point offers a variety of heated and non-heated classes each week, taught by a diverse group of talented Yoga Alliance certified instructors. meltingpointhotyoga.com Ebb & Flow Movement and Pilates Whether you need to breathe and restore, strengthen and lengthen, or dance it out, Ebb & Flow has you covered with its wide variety of yoga, pilates, and dance classes, as well as opportunities for massage and bodywork. ebbflowcharlotte.com Khali Yoga Whether it’s bodywork therapy or a restorative meditation, this inclusive yoga

studio has the classes you need to start the new year centered and clear minded. khaliyogacenter.com NoDa Yoga Promoting health and wellness in the Charlotte community since 2008, this female-owned studio is committed to meeting each student where they are on their yoga journey, and offers classes that range from restorative to heated vinyasa flows. nodayoga.com Om Yoga This Fort Mill yoga studio offers power yoga, deep stretch, prenatal yoga, and yoga for kids among others so that everyone in the family can experience the tranquility and community of practice. omyogasc.com Charlotte Yoga This yoga studio located in Park Towne Village Shopping Center, Charlotte Yoga, offers a wide variety of traditional Hatha yoga classes taught by a diverse group of qualified instructors. charlotteyoga.com

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BK Pilates This stylish addition to South End is a boutique studio that originated in the Big Apple. They offer a tailored experience and top notch reformer Pilates instructors. bkpilates.com

Iron Butterfly Pilates Whether you prefer to train in a group or one on one you can work up a sweat and strengthen your core with one of Iron Butterfly’s professionally certified Pilates trainers. ironbutterflypilates.com

iShine Yoga and Wellness A Co-Op founded on the principles of community and empowerment, iShine’s yoga classes are designed for yogis of all levels to gather, be empowered, and shine.

Ishineyoga.com

Hilliard Studio Method Sculpt the body and strengthen the mind with Hilliard Studio Method’s low-impact, high-energy core-centric workout designed for fitness at any stage of life. hilliardstudiomethod.com

IM=X Pilates and Fitness Strengthen, lengthen, and tone with Im=X Pilates and Fitness’s wide variety of Pilates, barre, yoga, and cycling classes, all under one roof. imxpilates.com

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Y2 Yoga Looking to feel centered and pump up your heart rate all in the same class?

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Core 704 Looking to kick your yoga and pilates practices to the next level? Try Intensified Pilates, Enhanced Yoga, or Redefined Cardio at Core 704 to push your body to new limits while still reaping the benefits of low impact exercise. core704.com Vibe5 Yoga & Fitness Wanting to sculpt, sweat, and tone all in one place? Vibe5 offers cardio, strengthbuilding, and yoga classes all in one Charlotte based studio.

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BK PIL ATES

BARRY 'S

THE EXCLUSIVES

PE DA L FA RT H E R , FA ST E R Greensboro company eBike Central pedals its way to Charlotte. words SAM HUSTED / photos JAMEY PRICE

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THE EXCLUSIVES

“We feel like it's important to have the best eBikes available in Charlotte where the bicycle infrastructure is progressive and getting connected."

Joe Michel of eBike Central

I

In a year fraught with change, one thing has endured: America's love for bicycles. Many are proclaiming that 2020 was the year of the bike. Since the onset of the coronavirus in March, bike sales have skyrocketed, ushering in the “bike boom” of the 21st century.

While 2020 may have been the year of the bike, Greensboro local Joe Michel hopes that 2021 will be the year of the eBike.

Since 2017, Michel has been the proud owner of eBike Central, an electric bicycle dealership in Greensboro, NC. Recently, Michel opened up a second location at the Rail Yard in Charlotte’s South End neighborhood.

“We feel like it's important to have the best eBikes available in Charlotte where the bicycle infrastructure is progressive and getting connected,” Michel says. eBikes, for the uninitiated, are motorized bicycles that provide additional power for the rider. The harder a rider pedals, the bike senses this and adds more power—with some bikes reaching up to 28 miles per hour. Power is adjustable by the rider.

Thanks to their easy-riding capabilities, Michel says that he has eBikes for just about everyone.

“Because we sell so many models for different uses, we really have models for anyone 16 to 75 years old,” Michel explains.

According to him, younger riders tend to gravitate towards the mountain and commuter eBikes, while older riders prefer the comfort-focused models fit with lower frames. For families, Michel recommends the cargo-style eBikes, which are perfect for toting around kids, groceries, and small animals.

THE EXCLUSIVES

eBike Central offers nine brands of eBike manufacturers with over 150 models. Depending on the make and model, Michel’s eBikes come equipped with push button shifting, touchscreen displays with built-in GPS, and smartphone app integration capabilities, which can monitor heart rate and ride history. In terms of price, eBike Central carries bikes ranging anywhere from $1,700 to upwards of $12,000.

If you’re in the market for an eBike, Michel says the first step is to visit their website and request a Chat with an eBike Expert or complete the Contact us form. From there, one of their representatives will reach out and create a riding pro-

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file for you. You’ll then be matched with an eBike perfectly suited to fit your needs.

“We invite customers to test ride models at our store or arrange for a mobile test ride event if they can’t get to our stores,” Michel says. “After the test ride, we narrow down to the model that would fit them best.”

info ebikecentral.net @ebikecentralnc

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