QC Exclusive-No. 91-2023-Issue 1-The Wellness Issue

a healthy year

spread from Salted Melon in South End

For those who seek an exceptional life

Nothing Compares.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE SMILE OF YOUR DREAMS?

The perfect combination of art and science.

Are you tired of pain, not being able to eat the foods you love and lacking con dence in your smile?

Ballantyne Dentistry is a judgement-free practice that listens to our patient’s concerns and helps them achieve the smile of their dreams.

We invite you to come experience the difference.

It’s the little things in life.

“When I was a child, I experienced a mouth injury that le my front tooth discolored. Since that accident, I have been hiding or editing my smile, afraid to show the discoloration. This year, I decided it was time to make a change and to make my smile a priority. A er my rst visit with Dr. Tesmer at Ballantyne Dentistry, I knew I had made the right decision. I immediately felt at home and knew that the entire team there cared about me. Their priority was to help me feel and look my best. We decided that four veneers were exactly what I needed to enhance my smile. I can’t explain how much this change has impacted my con dence! I am forever grateful that I took this step for myself. I genuinely can’t stop smiling!”

— Haley Hendel, Charlotte Fitness Enthusiast @_haleyhendel

DR. GRANT TESMER DR. CHRISTIAN YASTE DR. DEVON BINNS

photo by The Plaid Penguin

ARTS

29 Flora, Fauna & Function The art of Debra Farnum.

34

Winter Exhibits At Shain Shain opens three solo shows to start off 2023.

36

A Gallery For A New Age Kilee Price and Brock Ailes are curating a new style.

40

Relax & Rejuvenate

Discover why Nature’s Spa is considered one of Charlotte’s premier relaxation destinations.

44

Leading The Way In SouthPark

When it comes to the cosmetic surgery industry, Graper Harper is at the forefront.

48

It’s Time To Start Smiling Again

Meet Dr. J and team at Mint Hill Orthodontics.

HOME & DESIGN

71 Designing With Architecture In Mind

Interior Designer Cate Gutter talks about her creative inspirations and how a home’s architecture should influence its design.

76 Color Study

A colorful living area from Nancy Parrish.

78 Rustic Retreat

A stunning space from House Of Nomad.

80

Invited Inside A warm and cozy space from Amy Vermillion.

82

Classic In The City Lisa Sherry takes on Morrocroft Estates.

ON VIEW FEBRUARY 11–MAY 21, 2023

MINT MUSEUM UPTOWN AT LEVINE CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Explore landscapes through the brushstrokes of Pablo Picasso in this first-of-its-kind museum exhibition.

Picasso Landscapes: Out of Bounds is generously presented in Charlotte by Bank of America, the City of Charlotte, Duke Energy, Mecklenburg County, M.A. Rogers, Ann and Michael Tarwater, North Carolina Arts Council, and Moore & Van Allen. Additional generous support is provided by: Leigh-ann and Martin Sprock; Robin and Bill Branstrom, Sally Cooper, Laura and Mike Grace, Marshelette and Milton Prime. The Mint Museum is supported, in part, by the Infusion Fund and its generous donors. Picasso Landscapes: Out of Bounds is organized by the American Federation of Arts with guest curator Laurence Madeline. The exhibition is generously supported by Monique Schoen Warshaw. Additional support has been provided by Lee White Galvis, Clare E. McKeon, and Stephanie R. La Nasa. Support for the accompanying publication provided by Furthermore: a program of the J.M. Kaplan Fund. IMAGE: Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973). The Village of Vauvenargues, April 29-30, 1959, oil on canvas. Fundación Almine y Bernard Ruiz-Picasso para el Arte, Madrid. Image © FABA, Photo: Hugard & Vanoverschelde Photography. © 2023 Estate of Pablo Picasso / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

Mint Museum Uptown at Levine Center for the Arts | 500 South Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202 | 704.337.2000 | mintmuseum.org | @themintmuseum

No. 91

2022 was a challenging year for everyone, but now we start fresh! The first day of the the new year is always something to look forward to. There's new opportunities, new adventures, new goals and dreams, new ways to approach things like health and wellness. These are always fun topics to discuss in the magazine. Our writers took this opportunity to compile several lists that embody these themes in this issue's Exclu! You'll be able to discover some of our favorite restorative retreats, as well as an in-depth guide to where to find the healthiest plant-based dishes here in Charlotte. We also feature 25 ideas for improved selfcare in 2023 from amazing towns to visit in the new year to activities that we think you'll love and, of course, ways to relax and rejuvenate. Along with all the wellness content, we also visit Stone House Art Gallery to see some unique art, unwind at the very beautiful Nature's Spa, taste a truly creative menu at bardo, and visit a new local favorite, Salted Melon. We also tour a stunning home from Lisa Sherry Interieurs and view some seriously beautiful spaces from House Of Nomad, Nancy Parrish, and Amy Vermillion. We also take a trip to Charleston to stay at the spectacular hotel The Ryder, and visit Wrong Way River Lodge, a new mountain A-frame community. It was a really fun issue to plan and design that we think starts 2023 off on the right note! We hope you enjoy!

Sincerely,

Jon-Paul Grice, Art Director Brett Barter, Publisher

Photo Credit: Jim Schmid (www.jimschmid.com)

How do you treat yourself?

Nature’s Spa is a purveyor of decadent treats for the soul. As a family owned, appointment only boutique spa, we focus on perfecting every treatment using the finest ingredients and staffing a unique group of highly trained, natural born healers. is charming, petite spa offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

Whether you desire a brief respite from the world or a multi-hour pampering experience, we have a variety of services and packages to help you make the most of your time with us.

We also offer gi certificates so you can share the gi of relaxation.

natures-spa.com • @naturesspacharlotte 6311 Carmel Road • Charlotte, NC 28226 • (704) 542-7306

DETAILS

ADDRESS 1910 Abbott Street Suite 200 Charlotte, NC 28203

WEBSITE www.qcexclusive.com

EMAIL info@qcexclusive.com

PHONE 704.219.9088 828.773.4922

SUBSCRIBE

FOR A SUBSCRIPTION

Receive 9 issues/year of QC Exclusive Magazine by subscribing online at qcexclusive.com/subscribe or contacting us through the methods provided below:

SUBSCRIPTION BY EMAIL info@qcexclusive.com

SUBSCRIPTION BY PHONE 207.631.4644

SUBSCRIPTION BY MAIL Exclusive Media Group 1910 Abbott Street. | Suite 200 Charlotte, NC 28203

(Include a check for $25 and address and info)

PUBLISHER

Brett Barter

ART DIRECTOR

Jon-Paul Grice

EDITOR

Sunny Hubler

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Kathryn Norungolo

EDITORIAL

Liza Carrasquillo

Eleanor Merrell

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jamey Price

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Emerson Hardy

Lachelle Douglas

Joe Schuberth

Tiffany Green

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.

ADVERTISING

Contact Brett Barter by phone at 704-219-9088 or email at brett@qcexclusive.com.

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Please contact us by email at sunny@qcexclusive.com.

EVENTS & PARTNERSHIPS

Post an event in QCExclusive or inquire about partnering with us for an upcoming event by email at info@qcexclusive.com.

FLORA, FAUNA & FUNCTION

words EMERSON HARDY photos JAMEY PRICE

The ceramic art of Debra Farnum.

TThere is no question that nature has inspired works of art across every time and place. Some of the earliest Stone Age art depicted animals and nature scenes painted on the walls of caves. Today, the fascination with nature, and even the use of stone in art remains. Charlotte stoneware artist Debra Farnum specializes in functional ceramics inspired by living things, both the normal and the fantastical. She creates unique, wheel-thrown porcelain ware.

Here, she walks us through some of her influences and inspirations, how her family helps her creative process, and the journeys she has gone on to further her craft.

What drew you to creating art initially?

Ever since I was little I have always loved creating and drawing specifically. My favorite class was art. I love the way it feels to create. After I graduated with a degree in book-making and print-making, I discovered ceramics. There was a studio around the corner from where I lived. They offered minimal wheel instruction and encouraged us to continuously practice in order to grow in our abilities.

Where do you find your inspiration for new ideas?

We spend our summers on a little island in a 130-year-old cottage. Most of my inspiration comes from our time there by the sea. It is a special time for our family. My children are a big source of my inspiration. Their playful spirits and imaginations are always up for adventure and seeing the positive in the world around them.

Is creating your art a full-time pursuit, or do you do other work as well?

I used to work in my studio full-time. Over the past few years, I have used my love of design and home in real estate. I am a realtor with Helen Adams Realty. I also teach fine arts at a private school here in Charlotte.

What's the environment you create in?

I have a studio just behind our home. It is my sanctuary. I play music, but love to create alone. My children will often join me in the studio to create alongside me. I cherish my time in the studio. It is so rejuvenating.

What do you hope to do with your art and future career?

HOME TECHNOLOGY, SIMPLIFIED.

Living room video streaming, home office Zoom meetings, virtual school in the bonus room, soothing audio in the master bedroom, and automated lighting shades throughout your home. Control your technology with one simple and easy to use solution from Home Technology Solutions.

HOME TECHNOLOGY, SIMPLIFIED.

Living room video streaming, home office Zoom meetings, virtual school in the bonus room, soothing audio in the master bedroom, and automated lighting and shades throughout your home. Control your technology with one simple and easy to use solution from Home Technology Solutions.

HOME TECHNOLOGY, SIMPLIFIED.

I hope to continue to work collaboratively with the talent Charlotte has to offer. I am working on larger pieces that I hope to showcase locally over the next year. I feel honored to have been selected by ASC as a Creative Rejuvenation Fellow for 2022-2023. I will be traveling to Norway (where my father was born) to gather inspiration, and to visit private studios and galleries exhibiting ceramic work.

Living room video streaming, home office Zoom meetings, virtual school in the bonus room, soothing audio in the master bedroom, and automated lighting and shades throughout your home. Control your technology with one simple and easy to use solution from Home Technology Solutions.

704-708-5126

704-708-5126

HomeTechnologySolutions.com/elevated

HomeTechnologySolutions.com/elevated

704-708-5126

HomeTechnologySolutions.com/elevated

Debra’s pieces found on her website are often one-of-a-kind and sell quickly, a testament to the appeal of her simple and elegant ceramic style. Both the casual shopper and art enthusiast alike will find something to fancy in her gallery, whether it’s a set of dishes themed after birch trees, or a black and white octopus adorning a coffee mug for those who love the sea.

Debra's beautiful work can be found at shopgoldenandgrey.com. She takes commissions, including pet portraits on handmade plates and mugs.

info

shopgoldenandgrey.com

@golden_and_grey

WINTER EXHIBITS AT SHAIN

opens three solo shows in January and February 2023.

Shain Gallery, located in Suite K at 2823 Selwyn Ave, is one of the Carolinas’ finest contemporary and traditional art galleries. This January and February, the gallery will unveil three separate solo shows.

The first show is Brooke Lancaster’s Bright New Year. Brooke began painting full time in March 2020. In Brooke’s recent clotheslines, viewers will see her fascination with highlights and shadows. The infinite possibilities of clothing and memorable items “give her a sense of nostalgia and the process of hanging clothing to dry reminds Brooke that there are no limits to what tomorrow may bring when painting artwork.” In addition to clotheslines, Brooke regularly paints still life scenes and portraits.

The second show opens January 27. LeeAnna Repass’s solo show is set to run through February 8. LeeAnna Repass lives

and works in Atlanta, Georgia. She is a graduate of the Atlanta College of Art, and has an exhibition list that features a decade of solo shows and inclusion in museum exhibitions across the Southeast.

On Feb 10, Shain will host Colleen Leach. The self-taught artist describes herself as “heavily influenced by music”, and her work explores the relationship of playful, bold linear works, texture and the use of color blocks as a primary compositional structure. According to Colleen in her artist statement, she “tends to lean towards awkward color pairings, textures and pushing the envelope with my work.”

info

shaingallery.com

@shaingallery

words SUNNY HUBLER photos courtesy SHAIN GALLERY

Shain

Allow our cultivated team of agents help you redefine live | work in a way of your very own

Reclaiming your bespoke space in a glorious home can star t to day.

A GALLERY FOR A NEW AGE

Kilee Price and Brock Ailes are curating a new style for art galleries in Charlotte.

words LACHELLE DOUGLAS photos courtesy STONE HOUSE ART GALLERY

Stone House Art Gallery is a space where creativity is inclusively curated. Stone House Art Gallery, or SHAG, was brought to life in recent years by Kilee Price and Brock Oakley Ailes. Both graduates of Columbus College of Art & Design and Cranbrook Academy of Art, Price and Ailes found their shared love of visual arts as their first step towards opening their own gallery together. SHAG is not located in a glittering skyscraper, but in a modest, and modern, renovated garage, and it offers what few other galleries in Charlotte do–a unique, personal, and genuine experience.

SHAG’s garage-turned-studio is located on the Price Estate, which has been in Kilee’s family since 1986. “I’ve always enjoyed making and looking at art, and knew it was going to be a large part of my life,” says Price.

Although she has loved art since an early age, specifically visual art, Price says that she did not discover her passion for the administrative side of art until she was in graduate school. “I began thinking more critically about art and writing reviews for my peers, which forces you to really investigate the way another person thinks. Curating is similar that way,” says Price. “You

really have to know your subject in order to make it make sense in a gallery space. Currently, that’s what I really love about art.” For Brock, co-founding an art gallery was not always in the cards. “If I'm being honest I wasn't super interested in visual art until my early twenties,” he says. Growing up, his mother was a musician and a creative woman, and would often take random items and turn them into something else.

“We really want to curate shows that make us think and inspire us to create.”

Before SHAG, Ailes worked in galleries and museums, and even keeps his own studio, focusing on sculpture art and image work.

Stone House Art Gallery may be modest in size, but every carefully curated piece of art packs an eclectic punch. “Very rarely will we keep things traditional,” says Price. For the duo, this is what sets them apart from the larger galleries currently guiding Charlotte’s art scene.

“You see so many spaces whose sole intent is to sell works right off the wall–and that’s great, selling work is great for everyone–but I didn’t want that to be the focus of SHAG’s mission,” says Price. “We wanted to provide a place that is thought-provoking and intimate, with the ability for artists to use space and experimentation to their advantage.”

For Price and Ailes, they finally have a chance with SHAG to break through the typical expectations of an art gallery. Last year, SHAG had a show that featured only one single painting, which is very unique. “I can't really imagine any of the places I've worked before being willing to take a chance on a solo show that was a single painting,” says Ailes.

In their upcoming shows, SHAG plans to shake up the Charlotte art scene even more. “SHAG is for everyone,” say both Price and Ailes. “We want the space to feel accessible, inclusive, and equitable for anyone who shows or views art online or in person,” says Price. “We want the space to feel different every single time we show something new.”

SHAG will soon be releasing their 2023 program. To stay updated on future shows, be sure to follow SHAG on social media. Pieces that have been curated at Studio House Art Gallery can be viewed by appointment. For appointment inquiries, DM the gallery on Instagram, or reach out to the company via email.

“We really want to curate shows that make us think and inspire us to create.”

RELAX AND REJUVENATE

Discover why Nature’s Spa is considered one of Charlotte’s premier relaxation destinations.

words LIZA CARRASQUILLO photos JAMEY PRICE

Everyone knows the importance of taking time from their daily routine to destress and rest, but how many of us actually do? It’s not always easy to step away from work or familial responsibilities and just focus on relaxation. Fortunately, Nature’s Spa is here to make it worth the time to take care of yourself. As a boutique, family-owned and operated spa, Nature’s Spa takes pride in meeting each client where they are in their self-care journey.

“Our clients reflect all stages of life, from teens to seniors,” notes Nature’s Spa owner Corie Dulken. “Many come to see us regularly, but others come to enjoy celebrating a special life event with us or to hold sacred space for healing.”

Corie is a dual licensed massage and skin-care therapist and a female business owner for over 20 years, Desert

Shield veteran field medic with the 82nd Airborne Division, devoted wife and proud mother of three.

What started out 16 years ago as deep interest in overcoming the effects of post war PTSD and childhood trauma, eventually manifested into an all encompassing experience designed to settle the nervous system on a cellular level, while offering deeply nurturing, individualized attention and system regulation.

Over time and as the business grew, Dulken and her team noticed how their clients did better when they didn’t come for one-size-fits-all services, but for personalized, tailored treatments. They recognized the need and desire for longer appointment times and created a series of experiential services and whole body packages that relied heavily on subtle details and quality time.

The highly trained professionals at Nature’s Spa work with each client to find out what makes their mind and body feel most rejuvenated and how to best impact their overstimulated nervous system.

“It is truly a team effort,” says Dulken of the boutique spa’s high rate of success and client satisfaction. "When we show up with intention and recognize that we are all holding emotions, memories and trauma within the very tissues of our bodies, we are graciously called to provide the greatest care to our clients and each other".

Those who are ready to take a moment for themselves and reclaim ease and vitality within the body through personalized spa services can call Nature’s Spa at 704-5427306 or request appointment options via their website at natures-spa.com.

Please note appointments book up fast so reserve your time soon or purchase a gift certificate for priority scheduling.

Don’t forget to check back later in the year to take advantage of curated specialty services based on each season and ponder often: "HOW DO YOU TREAT YOURSELF? info

natures-spa.com / @naturesspacharlotte

LEADING THE WAY IN SOUTHPARK

When it comes to the cosmetic surgery industry, Graper Harper is at the forefront.

Graper Harper Cosmetic Surgery is an elegantly appointed cosmetic surgery center located in the heart of SouthPark. Open Monday through Friday, Graper Harper offers an on-site private operating room suite with highly qualified, professionally trained staff on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their surgical facilities are accredited to offer both general anesthesia and IV sedation to meet the needs of all patients, and they are fully accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery (AAAASF).

Dr J. Garrett Harper and Dr. Robert G. Graper are complimented by an array of experts in their fields, such as Aesthetic Injector Specialists, Laser Specialists, PRP Specialists, Medical Aestheticians, OR Nurses, concierge management and office team, and surgery coordinator.

Tell us about the office. What can a first-time visitor expect?

A first-time visitor can expect to be greeted by a concierge frontoffice staff, offering top-level guidance and care from the minute they walk through the door and throughout their experience at Graper Harper Cosmetic Surgery. From the first phone call to appointment scheduling, consultations and follow-up, our goal is to offer our patients a warm, caring and friendly environment.

Who is cosmetic work for? Tell us about your clientele. They are people just like you and your friends who want to feel better about their appearance. Our goal is to offer you a safe and comfortable environment before, during and after your surgery, with beautiful results and an improved image of yourself.

words SUNNY HUBLER photos JP GRICE or courtesy GRAPER HARPER

Top Left: Dr. J. Garrett Harper, MD

Top Right: Aesthetic Nurse Injectors (l to r): Teri Trudnak RN, Linda Owens, RN/Allergan Medical Institute Trainer, Kristen Hall, RN BSN

Bottom Right: Melissa Myers, Medical Aesthetician & Laser Specialist

Does your office see a lot of patients periodically over time, or typically one time only?

We generally see our patients periodically over time. They love the extra attention and care the doctors, aesthetic providers and staff show them throughout their various treatments. Dr. Graper started this practice 30 years ago, and we have treated generations of families and friends.

What would you tell a new or prospective client who gets nervous about surgeries or medical procedures?

It is natural. Ask questions! That’s what we are here for. The doctors offer comprehensive consultations to cover the concerns of the patient, what they would like to achieve and if they truly are a good candidate for that procedure.

How do the two doctors complement each other's work?

Although both doctors perform many of the same procedures, Dr. Graper primarily focuses on the face—facelift, necklift, eyelift, brow lift, and mini facelift. Dr. Harper primarily focuses on the body—breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, breast revision, breast reconstruction, body contouring such as tummy tuck, liposuction, surgery after massive weight loss and mommy makeovers. Both doctors have a genuine like and respect for each other’s work, and their personalities go well together as they both love serving their patients cosmetic needs and have fun doing it.

Top Right: Dr. Robert Graper, MD FACS

Middle Left: Dr. J. Garrett Harper, MD

Middle Right: Julianna Seehase, RN BSN, CoolSculpting and Laser Hair Removal Specialist

IT’S TIME TO START SMILING AGAIN

No matter their age, everyone deserves to have a confident, light-up-a-room smile.

That’s why Dr. Jared Little of Mint Hill Orthodontics has dedicated his practice to guiding patients through their journey for happy, healthy smiles. And for the team at his practice, that starts right at the front door—with making each patient feel comfortable and safe.

“We take pride in providing a warm, inviting welcome into

our cool, modern office,” says Dr. Jared Little, known to his patients as Dr. J. “The space was meticulously designed to be a fun, clean space that’s enjoyable to visit.”

Once a patient is called back for their appointment, they can speak with Dr. J about a myriad of options to find out what works best for them. Whether a patient needs Invisalign, traditional braces or something in between, their care team will be there to walk them through it all.

words LIZA CARRASQUILLO photos courtesy MINT HILL ORTHODONTICS & DEMI MABRY PHOTOGRAPHY

Meet Dr. J and the team at Mint Hill Orthodontics.

“Mint Hill Orthodontics takes a patient-centric approach to making you smile,” says Dr. J with pride. “By blending top-ofthe-line customer service with state-of-the-art treatment technology, we’re able to give patients the smoothest path to their dream smile.”

Potential new patients can call the Mint Hill Orthodontics office or reach out via their website to schedule an appointment.

info

minthillortho.com

@minthillortho

“We take pride in providing a warm, inviting welcome into our cool, modern office. The space was meticulously designed to be a fun, clean space that’s enjoyable to visit.”

EVERYDAY GOURMET

South End welcomes the stylish new Salted Melon Market & Eatery.

words SUNNY HUBLER / photos THE PLAID PENGUIN

IIn summer of 2022, South End’s food scene got a colorful, convenient one-stop-shop in the form of upscale market and eatery Salted Melon. The owners behind Reid’s Fine Foods opened Salted Melon on the ground floor of the Lowe’s Global Technology Center, with a wide expanse of offerings for breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, and provisions.

Outside, overlooking bustling Worthington street, there’s a 40-seater patio. Inside, you’ll be met with a vibrant dining area, light-filled bar, a deli/bakery counter, and aisles of gourmet pantry staples.

Designed by Barrie Benson of her self-named interior design firm, who also designed all Reid’s Fine Foods locations, the 7,000 square foot market and eatery is filled with live greenery, leather booths, and colorful splashes of art. Salted Melon worked with The Plaid Penguin, a Charlotte-based branding and communications firm, to develop the name and brand.

“Watching South End grow, we recognized the demand for a convenient, health-focused concept that was approachable yet elevated,” says Thomas Coker, the COO of Salted Melon. “We hope it will have something for everyone and that it will be both a convenient option for those on the go and a welcoming space to enjoy with friends or for one’s morning coffee.”

Looking to grab a bottle of wine, something for dinner or snacks to host a party? In the market, guests will find a curated selection of health conscious, wellness-minded food and beverages that are rare to find in other local markets. They also carry a selection of beloved Reid’s Fine Foods products, including the snack mixes and take-and-bake entrees.

If you’re more in the business to sit down and eat, get your caffeine fix, or take lunch back to the office, the all-day menu begins at 7am on weekdays and includes breakfast, salads, wraps, sandwiches, bowls, coffee and espresso, and bakery items. The

eatery also boasts Charlotte’s first bone broth bar from local brand Brave Broth.

Beginning at 4 pm seven days a week, Salted Melon transforms into a dinner restaurant and cocktail bar with their expanded, full service menu. Small and large plates are offered alongside cocktails, beer and wine, and brunch is served on the weekends starting at 8 am. Executive Chef Andres Moncayo and Chef de Cuisine Jay Labs developed the Salted Melon menus and oversee the culinary team.

To add one more element to the convenience factor of this spot, Salted Melon has online ordering through its website and app, both for pickup and delivery.

info saltedmelon.com

@saltedmelonmarket

DARING TO DINE

With a revamped space and an updated tasting menu, bardo provides a dining experience unlike any other in Charlotte.

TThe restaurant industry has always been full of risk-takers, from chefs and mixologists pushing their limits to the owners funding innovations. Whether it be a small, family-owned eatery or a fine dining establishment, everyone involved in this industry understands stability isn’t guaranteed. This point has become all the more apparent in the wake of the pandemic.

The pandemic created a special kind of volatility that caused even long-established restaurant groups to question their future—and bardo was no exception. While bardo stayed afloat throughout the pandemic and is still going strong today, the restaurant’s managing team still had a lot to consider when it came to bardo’s next steps.

“After the pandemic,” says Head Chef Mike Noll, “we wanted to change, and we wanted to elevate. We always wanted to do a tasting menu, and we thought this was the perfect time to try.”

Unlike a traditional restaurant menu, a tasting menu gives all patrons the same predetermined dishes, typically arranged in a multi-course meal. At bardo, they take things a step further and won’t show patrons what they’re having until they get to the restaurant.

“We like keeping the menu a surprise for the dining experience,” notes Chef Noll. “And after the meals, they’re presented with a printed menu.”

While some might hesitate at the thought of not knowing what will be on their plate, others have embraced the idea of

words LIZA CARRASQUILLO / photos courtesy bardo BY UNIFY VISUAL, KENTY CHUNG

trusting bardo’s culinary team with all the decisions. Those that do have found that their five-course meals were well worth stepping out of their comfort zones, especially with the addition of their drink pairings. By bringing level 2 sommelier James Nelson on board, the culinary team at bardo has already begun updating their available drink lists. But the team at bardo didn’t stop their updates at just introducing a tasting menu. In order to truly elevate their restaurant out of the pandemic era, they had to look everywhere for possible improvements. That’s when they set their eyes on the décor.

“We wanted the food to be the show and not the décor,” says Chef Noll.

To achieve that, they decided to tone down the elegance

and give it a more urban, casual feeling by adding graffitistyled art to the walls. The atmosphere created by these subtle updates not only helps to limit distractions, but also eases any potential nervousness from anticipating each course.

Those looking to try bardo’s five-course meals for themselves can make a reservation on their website. They can even book a party or other private event in bardo’s dining space. The restaurant changes the menu every two months based on the availability of seasonal ingredients, so there’s always something new to come try.

info

bardorestaurant.com / @bardorestaurant

Where cutting-edge innovations meet timeless designs, Cadenza brings any homeowner’s unique requests to life. Driven by passion and solutions, Cadenza’s team of experts make it happen.

We are Charlotte’s experts for countertops, fireplaces, and shower surrounds.

Photo by Jim Schmid Photography

Quartzite, “Crystalita”, backlit with LED light panels

NAPA ON PROVIDENCE'S

P.E.I. MUSSELS

Eating seafood on the first day of the year is said to bring luck, prosperity, and good health in the coming 365. Even if you missed doing so on the first, we advise enjoying seafood through January and February. You can start that tradition at Napa on Providence. The modern bistro is centered around Napa Valley-inspired cuisine and an all-Californian wine list. The mussels in particular are an excellent starting dish, and well paired with crisp, dry white wine varietals.

Napa’s mussels hail from Prince Edward Island, where the ocean climate and tidal patterns in this area are conducive to raising the shellfish.

This umami seafood dish comes in a white wine brodo (a type of hearty, flavored broth), seasoned with shallots and garlic, topped with fresh herbs, and plated with a toasted baguette. Order it to share, or make it your own personal entree for a light, fresh meal.

— info — napaonprovidence.com / @napaonprovidence

words SUNNY HUBLER / photo courtesy NAPA ON PROVIDENCE

RED SALT'S

LOBSTER DUMPLINGS

Red Salt by David Burke is nestled on the first floor of Le Meridien Charlotte in Uptown. Inside the dinner-only restaurant, award-winning celebrity chef Burke’s modern American cuisine is served alongside a creative cocktail list and playful dessert menu. Expect a menu of dry-aged meats, seasonal vegetables, and a blend of Asian and Italian-influenced flavors. For more luck-laden seafood eats during this first month of the year, try Red Salt’s Lobster Dumplings. This starter comes served in a salty, rich miso tomato broth. Each lobster-stuffed soft dumpling has a crisp, golden, pan-seared bottom. The result is a delicate dish to kick off your meal, or share with the table.

— info — redsaltbydb.com / @redsaltbydavidburke

words SUNNY HUBLER / photo courtesy RED SALT

HAYMAKER'S

SMOOTH AMBLER MANHATTAN

Haymaker Uptown is a restaurant deeply dedicated to our region’s local fare and seasonal offerings. The cocktail menu features both craft creations and beloved staples alike, such as their take on a Manhattan. Classically, a Manhattan is a drink blended with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, meant to be strong, slightly bitter and a bit herbaceous.

Haymaker’s bar team serves their Manhattan with Smooth Ambler bourbon, making for a richer, sweeter drink. The cocktail is then finished with housemade nocino, an Italian liqueur, luxardo liqueur, a few dashes of angostura bitters, and topped with an amarena cherry.

info

haymakerclt.com

@haymaker_clt

words SUNNY HUBLER photo MICHAEL HRIZUK

LINK & PIN'S

VESPER

Link & Pin, from the team behind Duckworth’s and The Cellar, brings Charlotteans the same quality of food and drink, but with new twists. Find the team in the Arboretum, in Huntersville and at their original South End location. The menu at all three is chock full of delicious small plates and mains with a diversity of tastes, and of course, a standout craft cocktail menu. The Vesper has a fun history: Also known as the Vesper Martini, it’s a drink invented by, and subsequently made famous by, James Bond author Ian Fleming.

Link and Pin’s version centers around Uncle Val's Gin and Social House Vodka. Topped off with Cocchi Americano, an aromatized wine, and then finished with Boston Bittahs and a twist of fresh lemon, it’s a strong, slightly sweet, bitter beverage with a whole lot of class.

info linkandpin.com @linkandpinnc

words SUNNY HUBLER photo courtesy LINK & PIN

DESIGNING WITH ARCHITECTURE IN MIND

words LIZA CARRASQUILLO photos BAXTER MILLER and RICHARD ISRAEL

Interior Designer Cate Gutter talks about her creative inspirations and how a home’s architecture should influence its design.

photo by Richard Israel

IIf walls could talk, interior designer Cate Gutter of CWG would undoubtedly be one of the first to find out—and her clients wouldn’t be surprised. That’s because Gutter has always had a knack for speaking with houses—or at least, a knack for understanding their architecture. Instead of conforming the space to suit a certain look, Gutter believes in working with the space to guide the design—especially when it comes to making everything beautiful yet practical. Finding the balance between creative selfexpression and architectural limitations hasn’t always been easy for Gutter. Fortunately, she has quite the support system when she needs inspiration: her own family. After working with her inlaws at the Ward Design Group in Durham, NC, Gutter decided to take a risk and start her own business. Now, she sits down with us to talk more about her design style and the steps she’s taken to become the interior designer she is today.

What made you decide to pursue design?

My mom and grandmother were design-savvy, but my mom really pursued design when I was young. She got her real estate

license to get the inside scoop on the newest properties she could buy and renovate. Growing up, we moved every few years as my mom would find a new, exciting project to work on. Throughout my "professional pitstops," I too was always renovating and adding new designs to each home my husband and I lived in along the way. I guess you could say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

How would you describe your own home and personal design style?

My own home is an expression of my style, but at the moment, it feels like an experiment of sorts…I went nuts with color and invested in timeless vintage and heirloom pieces. My personal design style is one that is full of history, but willing to accommodate our current season of life— a direct reflection of my husband and my story, meshed with a need for practicality. It’s a blast of color and texture and full of stories that we love to share over a bottle of wine and my favorite dessert.

left portrait by Richard Israel. All other photos by Baxter Miller

How do you find the right balance between visually pleasing and practical?

Without a doubt, this is the most important aspect of design. I always begin with the practical and layer in the beauty. Dogs? Kids? Wonky-shaped rooms? Those are the things I consider first when I start designing a space. Next, I consider personal preferences. For example, I have one client who cannot stand velvet or anything in that family—it feels funny on her skin. After functionality is considered, I layer in as much of beauty, color, texture as I can in order to weave in the client's personality.

What’s something you’d like potential clients to know about you?

One of the first things I tell clients is that they cannot hurt my feelings. I want them to feel comfortable enough to tell me all the things that they love about the initial design and also the things that they don’t. I love for my clients to have strong feelings and opinions that they are willing to share. Having open communication is key to a successful design! info cwg.design @cwg.design

COLOR STUDY

“The clients both work from home and have four children under the age of 8,” Nancy shared. “They are a fun and energetic family who wanted a space to escape from the day and to entertain friends.”

The standout feature in this room is the wallpaper and fabric from Nancy’s Parrish Delapp line, a collaboration with herself and fellow Charlotte-based designer Ashley Delapp. This wallpaper is the “Temple” pattern.

Nancy also sourced from Modern Matter, Robert Abbey sconces, Four Hands, and Anthropologie for the space.

— info — nancyparrishinteriors.com / @nancyparrishinteriors

Nancy Parrish of Nancy Parrish Interiors brought fresh energy and a bold splash of color into this family of five’s home.

words SUNNY HUBLER / photo SHUTTER AVENUE PHOTOGRAPHY

RUSTIC RETREAT

When the House of Nomad team tackled this space, Berkeley and Kelley knew they wanted to achieve a textured and sophisticated retreat that would be both inviting and relaxing. Neutral tones, a roaring fireplace, and a statement lighting fixture combine to create a room that’s all that, and more.

Simultaneously, the space also needed to be an entertaining area, and the more formal living area is the perfect place to host

guests. To make the space extra comforting during the chilly months, HON added plenty of texture with pillows and throws.

“This is our client's second home that he stays at when traveling to Charlotte for work,” Berkeley and Kelley explained. “The space needed to feel complete, comfortable, and like a home away from home. Thoughtfully placing art and cozy touches throughout were an important part of the design.”

— info — houseofnomaddesign.com / @houseofnomaddesign

words SUNNY HUBLER / photo LAURA SUMRAK

My favorite journey is looking out the window. — Edward Gorey

View

INVITED INSIDE

Amy Vermillion Interiors’ Foxcroft client needed a full renovation for this room; that included changing out the cabinetry to incorporating hand-scribed millwork and then furnishing the entire room (and the rest of the home, too).

The clients’ furry family members love to cuddle up to the fire in the living room. It’s one of the coziest in the house, with a large comfy sectional and moveable ottomans for varied seating.

“Our client has a young family and fur babies so it was important to choose fabrics that held up to this lifestyle but also feel good to lounge on,” Amy shares. “We ended up putting the TV over

the fireplace so that it can be seen from the adjoining kitchen as well as this seating room. It’s one of our family friendly areas that is cozy and a great place to snuggle and enjoy the winter months!”

The resulting space is one that’s appealing year-round, and allows for casual family days at home, just as much as for parties and group gatherings.

When it comes to adding in seasonally-friendly elements, Amy says that rather than falling into some of the louder winter decor options, she generally prefers to use greenery and natural elements as much as possible. —

words SUNNY HUBLER / photo BRIE WILLIAMS

CLASSIC IN THE CITY

As an interior designer, there are few working relationships as rewarding as those in which the client has complete faith in their designer. It’s rarely a dynamic that happens instantaneously; rather, it’s achieved by establishing a pattern of positive experiences that give the client the confidence they need to fully hand the reins over to the designer.

That’s the dynamic that emerged between interior designer Lisa Sherry and the owners of this gorgeous Morrocroft Estates house. The homeowners first met Sherry when they were a young couple, new to Charlotte. Two houses and three children later, the couple leads a busy, modern life and continues to rely heavily on Lisa Sherry to help them ground that life in a sophisticated but functional home.

Their new residence, after undergoing a remodel in 2015

by Ruard Veltman, includes seven bedrooms and 7.5 baths, as well as a foyer, dining room, study, living rooms, great room, kitchen, eat-in kitchen, family room, and office. The remodel resulted in a grandiosity that the homeowners wanted to celebrate, but also temper with design elements that feel more authentic and casual, as well as kid-friendly.

Consistent with Sherry’s other designs, this home has a light, neutral color palette. The wall color throughout is Benjamin Moore China White, with the exception of a black jewelbox study. “I believe that texture — rather than lots of color — adds interest, soul, and authenticity to a space,” explains Sherry. She introduced texture via upholstered pieces that are soft and oh-so-touchable, such as the Verellen sofa and modern Mr. Brown London wing chairs in the living room.

words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos BRIE WILLIAMS

Designer Lisa Sherry takes on Morrocroft Estates.

Much of the house exudes modernity, perhaps best exemplified by the dining room, where a Julian Chichester round table functions as the centerpiece of the dining room, surrounded by elegant dining chairs and a chaise lounge. Simultaneously, one-of-a-kind side tables and accents made from reclaimed wood have a warming effect throughout the home and contribute to the authenticity the clients sought by offering a found-object vibe.

Overall, the home is bright and airy, in part due to Sherry’s effort to blur outdoor and indoor living spaces, and in part due to the generously-sized windows that bathe the interior in sunlight. “From an interiors perspective, the garden views are art, pure and simple,” says Sherry. Sherry and her team also revamped the courtyard at the back of the house into more of an outdoor living space, introducing

sophisticated yet understated outdoor furniture and comfortable gathering areas.

Lisa Sherry calls this home her portfolio’s “classic city house,” tailored to its Morrocroft Estates location almost as much as to her client’s preferences. Generally, Sherry believes each of her clients has unique preferences, just like the spaces she designs for them; however, she notes that they all share one important quality: “Overall, my clients share a desire to live authentically and beautifully,” says Sherry. “They seek soulful interiors, understanding the power of transformation — of spaces and lives.” info

lisasherryinterieurs.com

@lisasherryinterieurs

REAL CHARLESTON CLASS

A stay at The Ryder Hotel.

words EMERSON HARDY photos THE RYDER and JOSIE DERRICK

TThe history, romance and Southern charm associated with Charleston, South Carolina cannot be understated. Situated on Meeting Street, a stone’s throw from the glistening waters of the Atlantic, The Ryder offers guests a proper Charleston experience. Take a carriage ride through town with nearby Palmetto Carriage Works, and learn about this storied city’s past while getting great opportunities for photos.

The surrounding area is home to an array of historical sites, such as the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, a Revolution-era prison museum run by costumed reenactors. Some of Charleston’s oldest churches of many denominations are also in the vicinity, such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, or the Unitarian Church of Charleston. Spend an afternoon at the Charleston City Market, and immerse yourself in the culture of local food and crafts. The iconic King Street is also nearby, the center of the city’s nightlife and art scene.

Retire for the evening at The Ryder, and enjoy a relaxing drink at the hotel bar, Little Palm. Little Palm specializes in summer-themed cocktails with all of the class and none of the kitsch of a resort vacation. The decor of the hotel also reflects this, utilizing wood, bamboo and palm tree accents to provide the feel of a summer hideaway without going overboard. An array of inroom dining options are available for those wishing to enjoy

their day in privacy. Little Palm, in addition to its wonderful cocktails, also offers a variety of food for all manner of tastes; everything from local seafood, to oysters, to marinated olives. You can even get a good old-fashioned American cheeseburger if you’re in the mood for familiarity.

Nearby, the renowned Hank’s Seafood is a highly-recommended option. Considered by many to be one of the best restaurants in Charleston, Hank’s is a must for the seafood connoisseur, and like Little Palm, also features locally caught fish. If you enjoy live music, catch local musicians and DJs in the evening at Little Palm on Monday, Friday and Saturday. Experience the sounds of Charleston along with your cocktail.

As previously mentioned, rooms at The Ryder are tasteful and minimalist. A wide range of sizes are offered, from queen rooms to hospitality suites, all catered to guest comfort. Guests can even rent a Peloton bike to stay active during their visit, and naturally, the Wi-Fi is complementary.

All things considered, The Ryder Hotel is a great pick for an ideal trip to Charleston, allowing you to be close to the city while still feeling like you got away from it all. Leave your cares behind and enjoy the Lowcountry at The Ryder.

e Home of American Golf® beckons all visitors. From world-class golf to local shopping and dining, our welcoming Southern hospitality is why people have been coming home to the Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area of North Carolina for more than 125 years. Plan Your SANDHILLS Escape today!

www.homeofgolf.com

THE CHARM OF OLD SALEM

North Carolina’s historical hidden gem.

words LACHELLE DOUGLAS

Old Salem is a town that transports its visitors back in time. Welcoming and full of life, Old Salem is home to restaurants, shops, and lodgings that seamlessly blend the old world with the new. With a rich history, beautiful scenery, and plenty of activities, Old Salem is a must-visit NC town for those seeking a cozy yet modern experience.

Founded by the Moravians in 1773, Old Salem, or Salem at the time, was a place for those seeking religious freedom and a peaceful life. It wasn’t until the year 1913 that a vote was taken amongst town residents to combine the cities of Winston and Salem. The Old Salem that we know and love today is simply the historical half of a greater whole.

The Historic Brookstown Inn, located on the outskirts of Old Salem, offers visitors a unique lodging option that is more on the modern side. To fully immerse yourself in the rich history of Old Salem, book your stay at The Zeverly Inn, the only bed and breakfast located within the town’s Historic District. Restored delicately to its original 19th-century appearance, The Zeverly Inn makes all visitors feel immersed in the past life of Old Salem.

Enjoy their delicious homemade breakfast in the morning with a variety of homemade options, from eggs benedict to peach and blueberry pancakes. When you return to the Inn each evening, be sure to stop by the lobby to get yourself a freshly baked cookie.

Step out of The Zeverly Inn and right into the heart of the town, with historical sites, classic shops, and cozy restaurants right

around the corner. Located directly across the street from the Inn is the Salem Tavern Museum. Take a tour of the museum for a trip back in time, and walk in the footsteps of George Washington, who once stayed there himself for two nights while on tour.

Along Main Street which runs through the heart of Old Salem, there are plenty of shops to stop in for classic gifts, a homey bite to eat, and even opportunities to try your hand at a vintage trade.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, check out Winkler Bakery, which has been around for over 200 years. The bakery specializes in sweet treats from the past, and freshly bakes all of their goods daily. Try their classic cheese stars or the original Moravian cookies; the recipe dates back almost one hundred years.

Stop in to Muddy Creek Cafe and Music Hall for a quick bite, and you may even catch a live show featuring folk music and traditional music. If you’re looking for a hearty and savory meal, enjoy dinner at Meridian Restaurant, an elegant and relaxed eatery located just behind Main Street. With craft cocktails and a menu of classic Southern dishes paired with Mediterranean eats, you’ll easily find something on the menu for everyone.

CHAPTER 9

Living Free

No school. No chores. No constantly chirping phones. We were detached from nearly everything in our everyday lives. Still, as we paddled through the waters of the Southern Outer Banks ®, we felt more connected than ever.

WHEN THE WRONG WAY IS THE BEST WAY

Adventure in Asheville at the Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins.

Many outdoorsmen have strong opinions about the “right way” to camp. You have to sweat in a nylon tent. You can’t have running water or electricity, let alone a proper bathroom. Sure, it’s charming. But have you ever tried camping the Wrong Way?

Built into the slopes of the French Broad River Greenway, the Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins offer an exclusive urban camping experience minutes away from downtown Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Wrong Way provides all the amenities of modern camping with the added convenience of being close to all the action.

The Wrong Way’s name is an homage to both the French Broad River—one of the few rivers in the world that flows south to north—and the campground’s unique approach to lodging and hospitality.

The Wrong Way provides a variety of comfortable accommodations for guests seeking a cozy and intimate getaway. Sixteen “Scappalachian” A-frame cabins—so named for their marriage of minimalist Scandinavian design with the warmth of Appala-

chian craftsmanship—offer a quaint home base before and after a day of exploration. Standard cabins feature a one-room studio floor plan with balconies overlooking the greenway and riverside, while deluxe cabins tucked deeper into Wrong Way’s property offer sweeter seclusion with private back decks leading to a lush wooded meadow.

Guests can fuel up each morning with coffee and fresh baked goods at The River Lodge's Canteen or dine between exhilarating climbs and leisurely strolls through downtown Asheville. But don't let its humble moniker fool you; the Canteen’s cuisine is provided by Chef Ashley Capps and partner Travis Schulz. Chef Capps was a semifinalist in the James Beard Foundation’s 2019 honor for Outstanding Pastry Chef and has created a menu using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. This commitment to sustainability and harmony with nature reflects Wrong Way’s ongoing mission.

Immersion with nature was first embraced with Wrong Way's choice of locale. When founders Joe Balcken and Shelton Steele—

words JOE SCHUBERTH photos courtesy WRONG WAY RIVER LODGE

both former whitewater raft guides— settled upon a plot within the French Broad River Greenway, their desire was to support, preserve, and enrich Asheville’s river corridor through sustainable construction practices and local business partnerships, connecting guests and their community with the transformational qualities of the outdoors.

Whether you are seeking outdoor escapism or have mastered the wilderness but desire an elegant experience for a change, the Wrong Way offers something for everyone. It’s possible to get away from it all without cooking on a propane stove. Come discover the beauty of Asheville in style by exploring the wilderness the Wrong Way.

info

wrongwaycampground.com

@wrongwaycampground

RESTORE, REST, RETREAT

Whether you prefer a spa day, a week-long guided retreat, or simply a long weekend away, we invite you to get your relaxation mode on.

You can usher in the New Year any way you like… but may we suggest carving out some time to simply… relax? From perfectly appointed day spas to luxurious hotels and wellnessminded retreats, these Carolina destinations offer the perfect backdrop for you to start the year off on the right foot.

The Poseidon Spa

Located in the Grand Bohemian Hotel on Trade Street in Asheville, Poseidon Spa offers a variety of massage and skincare services befitting their Greek god namesake. Experience tranquility and wellness with personalized treatments to suit your needs. Guests can create their own facial exfoliation treatment by choosing the specific products that will be used. Other wellness services are available, including hot stone massages and even immunity-boosting aromatherapy. Relax the work week away at Poseidon Spa. marriott.com

Coastal Massage and Spa

Wilmington, NC is a popular vacation destination year round, and is a good choice during the winter to take advantage of the mild weather and smaller crowds. Everyone knows part of vacation is relaxing, and what’s more relaxing than a day at the spa? Coastal Massage and Spa offers a wide array of full-day wellness experiences. Specialty massage options ranging from head and neck to full body are available, and guests can enhance their experience with the winter-themed French vanilla latte body scrub afterwards. Massage options for couples or even entire bridal parties are also available. Other types of spa treatments such as waxing or brow tinting can be enjoyed with the full day experience. coastalmassagespa.com

Hilton Head Health

Billed as America’s Number One health retreat, Hilton Head Health is South Carolina’s ultimate destination for a wellness va-

words EMERSON HARDY, LACHELLE DOUGLAS, TIFFANY GREEN / photos courtesy RETREATS

cation. Your retreat can be tailored toward your own health goals such as weight loss, mobility issues, or even classes on healthy cooking. Coupled with all the luxury offered by the onsite Sweetgrass Inn, Hilton Head Health combines the best in wellness with the Palmetto State’s loveliest beach vacation. hhhealth.com

The Art of Living Retreat Center

Located in Boone, the Art of Living Center is a great escape for those who love the solitude and majesty of North Carolina’s mountains. Learn to clear your mind with meditation, or cleanse and restore the body using Ayurveda, a system of alternative medicine originating in ancient India. A variety of dining options are also available, drawing on cuisine from all over the world. The Art of Living Retreat Center is a getaway that balances wellness with worldliness. artoflivingretreatcenter.org

Skyterra Wellness

Surrounded by nature in Pisgah Forest, Skyterra is without a doubt the wellness retreat for the outdoorsman in all of us. Stay in a chic modern cottage by night and enjoy outdoor adventures by day. Hiking, horseback riding, and archery are among the many activities available at Skyterra. This, alongside programs for weight loss, meditation and healthy living makes Skyterra the ideal place to leave the working world behind, and get lost while finding yourself.

skyterrawellness.com

Westglow Resort and Spa

The historic Westglow Estate in Blowing Rock, NC is home to its own wellness center. Quaint and luxurious lodging to rival the Biltmore awaits at one of two houses on the Estate, the Mansion and the Daingerfield House. Westglow features a fully customizable spa experience ranging from conventional massages and facials, to mud baths and rain therapy. The resort also accommodates for a variety of health and fitness needs, with a weight room, indoor pool, and more. To top it all off, the beautiful Westglow Mansion also doubles as a wedding venue, to make the majestic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains the backdrop to your storybook moment. westglowresortandspa.com

The Omni Grove Park Inn

If you’re looking for a beautiful resort to spend your time this season, Omni Grove Park Inn will grant every wish you’ve ever had. Located just three miles away from the Biltmore, they offer spa and wellness accommodations that will relax your soul and change your world. This is a resort that is majestic, yet subtle enough to make you feel like you’re at home.

omnihotels.com

The Grandover Resort

The Grandover Resort has so many fun activities, you’ll be absolutely captivated by them the entire time you’re there. This is a trip for golfers and art lovers. They offer a golf course that will suit all of your needs, along with a fabulous art gallery. You can’t

HILTON HEAD HEALTH

go wrong with a tranquil spot that gives you the world. grandover.com

The

Umstead Hotel and Spa

Take a trip up to Raleigh, NC to stay at the luxurious Umstead Hotel and Spa. Tucked away behind a blanket of trees, you’ll find peace at the Umstead’s hidden wellness destination. The hotel is known for its state-of-the-art spa facilities, and its beautiful guest suites. Any time of the year, visit the Umstead spa for a full body exfoliation treatment, intensive body massage, or full body mud mask. To book your stay, visit the hotel’s website. theumstead.com

The Spa at Pinehurst

The Spa at Pinehurst is located in the Sandhils of North Carolina and is a trip you will not forget. Their activities include running, biking, and of course, the spa! This is a place that also offers wedding venues for those who are looking to represent their love in a beautiful setting. Happiness is where the heart is, so why not enjoy some time in Pinehurst? pinehurst.com

The Ritz-Carlton Spa

The Ritz-Carlton in Charlotte offers amenities that will make you want to stay close to home. This spa is famous for its luxurious ambiance and style, from the pool to the eco-conscious nail salon and the Himalayan salt room and sauna. Their spa, covering two penthouse levels, is one of Uptown’s most luxuriously relaxing offerings. ritzcarlton.com

The Restoration Hotel

With locations in both Charleston, SC and Asheville, NC, The Restoration Hotel offers both mountain and seaside wellness retreats. With their Wellness Retreat Package, you can book a two night stay at either location, including a one hour yoga or meditation session, complimentary bicycles, and a 60-minute massage for one (or two). Visit the spa for more options, including facial services, and full body treatments. During the winter holiday season, guests can look forward to a decorated Christmas tree in their suite. Additionally, hot cocoa, freshly baked cookies, and a personalized tree ornament are given to guests upon arrival. therestorationhotel.com

Nature's Spa

This charming, petite spa is found in South Charlotte, between Ballantyne and South Park. With a staff of the highest trained therapists and estheticians, Nature's Spa provides personalized, nurturing treatments in a quiet, salon free environment. Because it's a boutique, family-owned spa, each client is treated with attention and a fully individualized experience. natures-spa.com

Montage Palmetto Bluff

Located in Bluffton, SC, the Montage Palmetto Bluff offers guests a beautiful setting to relax and rejuvenate the mind and body. Featuring a wellness center, a spa, and a salon, Montage Palmetto Bluff has everything you need to unwind and escape the busyness of everyday life. Visit the spa for a full body treatment, a massage, or a yoga class in their Movement Studio. montagehotels.com

Wentworth Mansion and Spa

Historic Downtown Charleston has many hidden gems, including the Wentworth Mansion and Spa. Originally built to be the mansion’s stables, the Wentworth Mansion’s Spa is the epitome of a grand space for relaxation. Offering massage services, full body treatments, and luxury rejuvenation packages, you’ll leave the Wentworth spa feeling relaxed and renewed. Visit the mansion’s website to plan your stay and reserve your spa services. wentworthmansion.com

The Spa at Selenite

Selenite Beauty in South End has been providing Charlotte residents with safe, effective skincare and beauty products since 2020. Newly added, upstairs you will find the Spa at Selenite, where visitors can escape from it all with a full menu of holistic wellness. Offerings include everything from guided meditation to facials, sound healing, and brow shaping. selenitebeauty.com

21C

This hip, boutique hotel offers a wonderful spa amongst its innovative, art-centric setting. Get a room, spend the day at the spa, and afterward visit the bar and lounge. 21C is an incredibly unique spot to spend a long weekend just a few hours from Charlotte.

21cmuseumhotels.com

The Spa at Ballantyne

The Spa at Ballantyne is more than adequate for your wellbeing. It is a luxurious spa that offers reservations for their

clients, massage therapy, a salon for hair, skin, and nails, and more! With the holidays coming up as well, this is the perfect place to be considering that they also do seasonal packages. theballantynehotel.com

Prama Institute and Wellness Center

The Prama Institute is renowned for its holistic and community driven approach to wellness. The Prama Center offers a variety of options to relax and reset, including a juice cleanse and yoga retreat, health coaching, and a soon-to-be thriving eco-village. Located just a short drive from Asheville, Prama sits near the French Broad River, offering beautiful mountain and forest views to take in while you unwind. To plan your own retreat, visit the organization’s website. prama.org

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

If you’re looking for a place to truly relax and rewind, look no further than the Old Edwards Inn and Spa. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the beautiful Old Edwards Inn provides guests with a truly luxurious wellness retreat. Reset your mind and body in the Inn’s award winning spa, and have lunch at their Spa Cafe, in the comfort of your robe. oldedwardshospitality.com

Toccare Day Spa

Toccare Day Spa has two locations, one in Myers Park and one in Dilworth. Both offer non-invasive treatments, clean beauty products, and honest advice. Stop in for a gua sha facial, a sunday night yoga class, reiki, or a hot stone massage. toccaredayspa.com

SKYTERRA MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF

NEW YEAR, BETTER YOU

Embracing Self Care in 2023.

words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos JAMEY PRICE

IIn its purest form, self care guides its practitioners toward becoming healthier, more evolved versions of themselves who are better able to lead more personally fulfilling lives, as well as shine more brightly upon others in their orbit. The logic checks out: happier, healthier, self-actualized people are more satisfied, productive, present, and, put simply, delightful to be around. Plus, proper self care not only does good, but also often feels good. That’s why we recommend taking a moment at the start of the new year to evaluate how you might fold more self care into your life.

Mental health professionals maintain that there are five pillars of self care: physical, social, mental, spiritual, and emotional. Often, we favor just a few pillars to the neglect of the remaining pillars. But with a little tweaking, it’s possible to keep all five in balance while challenging, treating, and re-centering ourselves. Here are a few Charlotte-specific suggestions for self care in and around the Queen City.

GET AWAY FOR THE WEEKEND.

A change of scenery can do wonders for the spirits. Behold new horizons, switch up your routine, and open yourself to fresh trains of thought by visiting any of these drivable destinations.

Asheville, NC

The mountains are one of the best places to recharge. Stay at the Omni Grove Park Inn a few miles outside of town for historic grounds with unmatched ambiance, or opt for the modern Hyatt Place Hotel in the heart of downtown. Build in some time to brewery hop and stop at some of Asheville’s flavor-forward restaurants while you’re out and about; we recommend Jargon, Chai Pani, Curaté, and The Market Place. Round out your weekend with a stroll around the grounds at the Biltmore Estate or a concert at the Orange Peel.

Charleston, SC

Drive down to the Holy City and get lost on cobblestone streets lined with antebellum houses. Shop at the Charleston City Market, stroll down Rainbow Row, and tour the oldest public gardens at the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Revive with libations from Rooftop Bar at the Vendue or a world class meal from Maison, Hannibal’s Kitchen, or FIG then head back to a comfortable room at The Loutrel, Post House Inn, or The Saint. Although steeped in history, Charleston still manages to adapt and grow with each passing year, so don’t assume you’ve seen it all if you’ve visited previously.

DRY FALLS

TOCCARE DAY SPA

Greenville, SC

Over the past few decades, Greenville has quietly emerged as one of South Carolina’s top cultural hubs, perhaps with only Charleston as a rival. An array of prestigious and funky galleries dapple Greenville’s downtown, and the city also hosts some of the Carolinas’ best restaurants like Willy Taco Seed and Feed, Tandem Creperie, and SBH BBQ. Save time for a stroll around the riverside gardens and suspension bridge of Falls Park on the Reedy, located in the historic West End District adjacent to downtown.

Savannah, GA

Savannah is Georgia’s coastal gem, as historic as it is funky, straddling its identity as the host of Savannah College of Art and Design and its preservation of antebellum architecture and cobblestone streets, much like Charleston. Hop on an Old Town Trolley Tour, drink in the elegance of Forsyth Park’s Spanish moss, feed off the energy of the Plant Riverside District, or join Architectural Tours of Savannah.

Kiawah Island, SC

Located off the coast of Charleston, South Carolina, Kiawah Island abounds with natural life. Its marshes are home to turtles, whitetail deer, and seabirds, and its coasts shield carefully protected sand dunes and maritime forests. Kiawah is a true world of its own; a place, as they say, to get away from it all. The island’s tranquility draws many of its visitors, but its top notch golf courses are a draw for many Charlotteans, as well.

RESTORE YOUR BODY.

It’s amazing what a little physical pampering can do to boost a mood or give a jolt of self-confidence. Book a facial, massage, or

consultation at one of these great spas, or simply stop in to find your next favorite skincare product.

Toccare Day Spa

Toccare Day Spa has two locations, one in Myers Park and one in Dilworth. Both offer non-invasive treatments, and clean beauty products. Owned and operated by Caci Di Russo since 2013, Toccare has built a strong following of loyal clients who rely on Russo and her team for their always wellintentioned expertise.

Selenite

Selenite Beauty has been providing Charlotte residents with safe, effective alternatives to the harsh skincare and beauty products on most stores’ shelves since 2020. Last year, owner Tiffany Mielnik Parrish expanded Selenite Beauty, adding Selenite Spa to the boutique’s second floor and expanding her services to include guided meditation, facial, sound healing, one-onone yoga, or a lash lift, all of which Parrish offers clients to aid in the pursuit of holistic wellness.

The physiological benefits of spending time in nature seem innumerable, but include lower stress levels, improved focus, better mood, and increased willingness to cooperate with others. These benefits can be achieved by simply walking through a green neighborhood or a city park, but why not go ahead and treat yourself to a full day in the woods?

Lake James

Take the 3.6 mile Mills Creek Trail, which traverses the easternmost peninsula of the Paddy’s Creek Area in Lake James

BATHE IN A FOREST.

THE SPA AT SELENITE

CHARLESTON

State Park, for a moderate hike with views of the lake. If you have time, stop at Fonta Flora’s Whippoorwill Farm in Nebo to wet your whistle afterward.

Morrow Mountain

Morrow Mountain is one of Carolina’s best-kept secrets. Start at the Mountain Loop Trailhead for jaw-dropping, expansive views of the Piedmont. From there, take the Morrow Mountain Trail to the Short Loop for a five-ish mile moderate hike that feels like it belongs in western NC.

Stone Mountain

The Stone Mountain Loop Trail has everything a Carolina day hiker could ask for: a 2,305 foot overlook, cascading falls, and one of the most intensive natural quad/glute workouts found on the east coast. Travel clockwise for an intense uphill on trails and intense downhill on wooden stairs, or move counterclockwise for an intense downhill on trails and uphill on wooden stairs.

Great Smoky Mountains

If you’ve never been to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, make this your year. In 2021, the Smokies were the second most visited national park in the country (behind the Blue Ridge Parkway). The park is a bit of a hike (excuse the pun) from Charlotte, so you’ll want to make this an overnight trip, via a backpacking site, car camping site, or rented room in neighboring Bryson City.

PRACTICE YOGA.

Along with the physical benefits of yoga (improved strength, balance, and flexibility), yoga also can improve the mental clarity of those who practice, especially when sessions include meditative elements, which can be as simple as focusing

on breathing patterns while passing through the poses during a session.

Khali Yoga

Lindsey Crisp opened Khali Yoga to provide full-time employment to yoga instructors, as opposed to the gig model that defines most other studios’ approach to staffing. The result is a studio where every instructor is dedicated to their craft, and the knowledge and passion that comes from that dedication passes easily from instructor to student.

Okra Charlotte

Located in Plaza Midwood, Okra is part coffee/tea lounge and part wellness studio. It welcomes all levels of ability and meets its yoga students precisely where they are, from their chillax to deep stretch to primal classes.

EAT RIGHT.

Food provides nourishment well beyond what’s nutritional; it feeds the soul just as much as it feeds the body, comforting as it strengthens. So, never underestimate its potential in a self-care regimen!

Supperland

Treat yourself to one of the best restaurants in Charlotte and, according to Bon Appetit, one of the top ten new restaurants in the country. Owned by Jeff Tonidandel and Jamie Brown, the same husband-wife duo that created Haberdish, Ever Andalo, and Reigning Donuts, this restaurant lives within a restored Plaza Midwood church and dishes out elevated comfort foods.

Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen

There’s certainly pick-me-up value in splurging on a yummy

KHALI YOGA

meal in a restaurant setting, but there’s just as much to be said for being able to whip up something delicious and/or nutritious at home. Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen is a South End based enterprise that offers cooking classes for all levels of home cooks, so you can treat yourself to a stimulating evening of tapping into your inner chef, and keep the good times rolling by bringing the skills or recipes you develop in Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen into your own kitchen.

GET A GYM MEMBERSHIP.

Exercise not only does wonders for physical health, but also elevating a heart rate can elevate a mood and sharpen a mind. Stay active by enrolling in regular fitness classes, picking up a new active hobby, or just working regular gym visits into your weekly routine.

New Rumble Boxing

New Rumble Boxing offers full body, boxing-inspired group fitness classes that will get your heart pumping and muscles toned.

Inner Peaks

Inner Peaks is Charlotte’s only indoor rock climbing gym. An array of auto-belays and bouldering walls cater to solo or inexperienced climbers, while 40-foot top rope and lead walls beckon to the experienced climber.

Hustle House

Hustle House infuses their workout classes with a combination of personal training and group fitness to give hustlers the individual attention they need to excel and the drive they need to push harder. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is the bedrock of Hustle House workouts, whether it’s strength day or conditioning day.

JOIN A CLUB OR TEAM.

Sometimes, during these chilly months and shorter days, what you really need is connection. Boost your brain power and make a new friend or two by joining a local group.

Blue Blaze Hiking Club

West End’s original brewery, Blue Blaze, hosts the Blue Blaze Hiking Club, which organizes monthly excursions to different hiking destinations around the Carolinas. Hikes vary not only in location, but also in difficulty, length, and terrain. Participants can always expect to meet good people who share an appreciation for the great outdoors.

The Spoke Easy Biking Club

The Spoke Easy is a relaxed, welcoming bike shop/bar/ gathering space in the Elizabeth neighborhood. It hosts weekly BMX rides, as well as weekly easy urban rides that start and end at the shop and are open to anyone with access to a bicycle.

Book Club

Take a peek at your local public library’s event calendar, and you’re sure to find at least one active book club. Meet your neighbors, read something new, and exercise your brain over monthly book discussions while supporting your local public library.

At the end of the day, the best self-care activities are often those that are internally-driven. What do you need? What areas of your life need a touch up or reboot? Is this the time for gratification or for growth? Start with these questions, and then let your creativity and self-knowledge take it from there, giving yourself full permission to lean into self-care, whatever that looks like to you.

BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY INNER PEAKS

VEGGING OUT

Making Plant-Based dining fun in the Queen City.

words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos JAMEY PRICE

The virtues of plant-based dining are plentiful. It’s healthier, better for the planet, and actually not that difficult to do. In fact, meat-free dishes rub elbows with steaks, burgers, and other meaty morsels on the menus of many of Charlotte’s favorite eateries. As more and more people have adopted a vegetable-forward diet to better their bodies and shrink their carbon footprints, more and more restaurants have responded with flexitarian menus that have offerings for all kinds of eaters. This level of accessibility and deliciousness makes a compelling case to skip the burger on your next night out and instead opt for one of these mouthwatering, veg-forward meals from one of your go-to restaurants in the Queen City.

SALTED MELON

This new eatery has become one of our favorites in the city. Salted Melon specializes in healthy lunches, delicious snacks and sweet desserts. It's a beautiful restaurant and grocery right in the heart of the blossoming South End neighborhood.

What To Order:

Quinoa Crunch: A delightful lunch option for the vegetarian, this dish is highlighted by grilled tofu and quinoa. Cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, green appleas and radishes add

some acidity and color!

Beets Me: This refreshing salad tosses kale, feta, and roasted beets in with pickled onions, pine nuts, and a very tasty pear vinaigrette.

Whole Lotta Love: This lunch wrap incorporates tofu, peppers, spinach, and havarti! It's perfect for a midday snack.

Couscous With Pesto: Sides don't get much better than this! Dates, arugula, goat cheese and couscous blend together to form the most satisfying of small plates.

PLANT JOY

This Camp North End food stall is quite literally one of the most approachable plant-forward food suppliers in the Queen City. Sidle up to the counter for one of the following.

What To Order:

Falafel Tower: This signature Plant Joy dish is like a falafel sandwich, only served nacho style. Dive into a pile of falafel, smoked hummus, pickled greens, and pita.

Polenta Fattoush: Get your healthy on with a pile of greens, radishes, and warm and crispy polenta croutons served under a drizzle of zesty Fattoush dressing.

Yam and Cheese: Bite into a flavorful sandwich made from smoked/roasted sweet potato plank, Viva Raw’s chive cheese, and tempeh chorizo.

SALTED MELON

FERN

This Dilworth restaurant is fully vegan or vegetarian in its offerings and is most appropriate for the veggie-confident.

What To Order:

Black Trumpet Risotto: Porcini fried tofu and broccolini served over a bed of risotto and topped with shaved truffle.

Japanese Katsu Curry: Spaghetti squash, bok choy, shiitake mushroom, and sweet potato anchor this tasty curry.

Truffle Udon: Oat cream, mixed mushrooms, calabrian chili, shaved truffle, and crispy shallot give texture and variety to this noodle dish.

ROOTS CAFE

Chef Craig Barbour’s seasonally-driven, classic cafe in South End serves three meals a day and offers tons of easy grab-and-go options. Eating well doesn’t have to be complicated.

What To Order:

ROOTS Bowl: A delicious mix of roasted carrots, caramelized sweet potato, baby kale, green chili pinto beans, pickled pepper, and roasted red pepper vina.

Veggie Burger Bowl: Dig into a chickpea and sweet potato veggie burger with fresh greens, pickled pepper and chili aioli served on a bed of baby kale and fresh greens.

BOTIWALLA

James Beard Award-Winning chef Meherwan Irani delivers a truly splendid sensory experience at Botiwalla, located in Charlotte’s Optimist Hall. This is the perfect place to (re)learn that meat-free doesn’t have to be boring.

What To Order:

Bhel Puri: This Botiwalla snack is an Indian street food classic. Puffed rice, flour crisps, crunchy chickpea noodles, roasted chickpeas, cilantro, and onions tossed with tamarind, green

chutneys, and spices, produces tangy, crunchy bites of goodness. Paneer Tikka Roll: Paneer is a type of Indian cheese that, when marinated in yogurt, lime juice, Kashmiri chili paste, and spices, chargrilled with onions and peppers, and then wrapped in naan alongside Desi slaw, cilantro, and chutney will change your life.

KID CASHEW

Kid Cashew’s tagline is “no freezers, no fryers, no heat lamps,” and you can believe you’ll find only the freshest meals at this eatery.

What To Order:

Quinoa Stuffed Avocado: Quinoa, cucumber salsa, and shredded lettuce are nestled inside a plump avocado, then drizzled with chipotle sauce. Go ahead and order three.

Super Grains Salad: This filling, leafy experience centers avocado, greens, quinoa, fennel, pistachios, cilantro yogurt, oranges, and lemon vinaigrette.

FUTO

BUTA

This South End staple might be Charlotte’s unofficial ramen headquarters. Chef and owner Michael Shortino had his vegforward friends in mind when he added these gems to the menu.

What To Order:

Shishito Peppers: This savory starter consists of lightly fried shishito peppers dressed with sesame, garlic, and soy. Start with this dish before moving on to your ramen main.

Niwa: A base of vegan broth, dappled with mushroom, bok choy, roasted and julienne leek, arugula, sesame, sprouts, scallions, golden pea shoots, and watermelon radish makes for a mouthwatering main that you’ll be enjoying for days (expect leftovers).

LIVING KITCHEN

Living Kitchen is a vegan/vegetarian restaurant that prides

ROOTS CAFE BOTIWALLA

itself on being “100 percent organic, plant-based, and locally sourced.” The eatery serves everything from salads, to nachos and burritos, and even their own unique take on veggie-based sushi.

What To Order:

Spicy Black Bean Bowl: Served with their signature black beans, the bowl is topped with avocado, quinoa, mushroom “carnitas,” romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, chipotle sauce, and lime.

Caramelized Onion and Pear Flatbread: Their flatbread is made with a buckwheat and flax seed crust, a cashew basil cheese, caramelized onions, pear, arugula, and a hemp seed parmesan.

EVER ANDALO

Delivering on the promise of true Italian cooking with fresh ingredients cooked simply, Ever Andalo is NoDa’s newest cozy eatery. In addition to plentiful veg-forward pasta dishes, all their pastas can be served gluten free, too.

What To Order:

Spaghettini alla Nerano: a rich plate of creamed zucchini, zucchini slices, pecorino romano, and finished with parsley.

Mushroom Tortelloni: this umami pasta features seasonal mushrooms, shaved parmigiano reggiano, porcini cream, and greens.

Farrotto: indulge in creamy farro with seasonal squash, seasonal vegetables, mascarpone, and pecorino romano.

HAYMAKER

Haymaker is an Uptown staple that serves seasonal fare with heirloom ingredients indigenous to the Carolinas. While they’re not strictly a vegetarian establishment, their vegetable-based courses are total standouts.

What To Order:

Mushroom Toast: The toast is topped with wild mushroom ragout, herbed goat cheese, shaved roots, and fresh herbs. New Potato Gnocchi: The gnocchi is dressed in a heirloom pumpkin butter with roasted hen of the woods mushrooms, savory pumpkin seed granola, and fried sage.

MILKBREAD

Milkbread, Plaza Midwood’s latest niche eatery, is best known for its donuts. But aside from donuts, which happen to also be vegetarian, Milkbread is known for its substantial breakfast bowls, savory and sweet toasts, and salads.

What To Order:

Avocado Toast: Served with everything seeds and kashmiri chili, a colorful Indian spice with mild heat.

Whole Bowl: The Whole Bowl is a hearty breakfast bowl packed with cauliflower rice, whipped tahini, jammy egg (aka soft boiled), red onion, peppers, and nut crunch.

OH MY SOUL

Oh My Soul is NoDa’s premier vegan restaurant. The owners bring their South African heritage to their cuisine, allowing for creative dishes with a cultural backing.

What To Order:

Macho Nachos: These fully loaded, South African nachos come stacked with seitan chicken and vegan bacon, chakalaka, pico de gallo, guac, shredded cheese, queso, and ranch.

Waka Waka Burger: The Waka Waka burger is another South African-inspired dish. It consists of a spicy lentil patty served with fresh cilantro, tomato, and red onions.

CURRY GATE

Curry Gate is a powerhouse of flavor, offering an array of delicious curries, traditional Indian and Nepali favorites, and of course plenty of vegetarian options.

What To Order:

Samosa: You can’t go wrong starting off with some samosas, aka deep-fried savory pastries stuffed with vegetables.

Papdi Chaat: One of our favorites. Indian style nachos, with diced potatoes and topped with yogurt and chutneys.

300 EAST

300 East has been feeding the people of Charlotte since 1986. Their menu is not strictly vegetarian, but does offer a variety of veggie-friendly options.

What To Order:

Sweet Potato Ravioli: Rich ravioli dressed in a gorgonzola cream sauce with toasted walnuts.

Grain and Veggie Bowl: It’s filled with Carolina Gold brown rice, roasted winter squash, root vegetables, chickpeas,

MILKBREAD

ARBOL EATERY

currants, and tossed in an orange-sunflower vinaigrette.

BARRINGTON’S

Barrington’s is a SouthPark classic. The restaurant, which has been open since 2000, specializes in New American cuisine and focuses on creative spins on traditional dishes.

What To Order:

Butternut Squash Soup: Made with apple chutney, candied pecans, and a curry-cinnamon creme fraiche.

Tega Hills Mix Salad: Mushrooms, shaved radishes, croutons, porcini puree, truffled pecorino, red wine vinaigrette. It's good.

THE CRUNKLETON

From the creative mind of owner Gary Crunkleton, The Crunkleton has made a name for itself here in Charlotte and at its original location in Chapel Hill. The restaurant is best known for its craft cocktails, curated and diverse selection of spirits, and of course Southern-inspired fare.

What To Order:

Vegan Pumpkin Chili: Vegans delight with this pumpkin chili! It’s composed of red beans, kale, diced Pumpkin, and topped with tri color slaw, crispy spicy chickpeas, and pumpkin seeds.

Fall Harvest Salad: Roasted beets, sweet potato, farro, goat cheese, spicy fried chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, shaved brussels, kale salad, dressed with a raspberry vinaigrette.

MARIPOSA

Named after the Spanish word for butterfly, Mariposa is best described as a multicultural “world to table” restaurant that prioritizes a communal dining experience between friends and family. Their menu focuses on the concept of “mezze,” a North African/Mediterranean idea of shared small plates.

What To Order:

Mezze Board: A hearty board with tzatziki, hummus with roasted garlic, garden veggies, marinated olives, and more. Vegetable Tagine: A delicious stew composed of tomatoes, zucchini, potatoes, carrots, olives, harissa, crispy chickpeas, preserved lemon, and couscous.

SUPPERLAND

Supperland touts itself as a Southern-style steakhouse with an unexpected element of whimsy. It sits in a renovated mid-century church in Charlotte’s Plaza Midwood neighborhood. Most of the dishes are meant to be shared, church potluck style.

What To Order:

Baked Brie Bites: A homemade puff pastry, melty brie cheese, and a little pop of spicy goodness with the orange jezebel sauce.

Vegetable Pot Roast: Slow-cooked root vegetables in a mushroom gravy, topped with pan-seared hen of the woods mushrooms and fresh herbs.

ARBOL EATERY

For the gluten-free, plant-powered, or health-conscious diner, Arbol Eatery dishes up a delicious, Latin-fusion menu that makes clean(er) eating delicious and convenient.

What To Order:

Torta: A Latin lunch staple made with lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese and a cilantro-lime crema. Ask for it without the chicken to make this a more veg-friendly option.

Matcha Love Smoothie: A great midday pick-me-up, this green tea powered smoothie also has pineapple, banana, Greek yogurt, and agave.

COPAIN

SouthPark’s boulangerie-style bakery, catering service, and French market has an array of options for whatever mood you might be in. The menu changes often, and seasonally, but here are a few picks we always look for.

What To Order:

Seasonal Hummus: Made fresh, this creamy spread features feta, Aleppo pepper, and pickled vegetables.

Eggplant Parmigiana: This dish is the perfect reminder that veggies can be hearty and satisfying. The lightly battered eggplant is baked in tomato sauce with fresh mozzarella and topped with parmigiano.

Nobles Tomato Bisque: Sometimes you just need to take it back to basics. Don’t overthink lunch: order a bowl of Noble’s creamy tomato bisque with a fresh baguette on the side and call it good.

MARIPOSA

Whetheryou’re gluten-free, plant-powered, or paleo, health is a consideration for most hungry Charlotteans. From pure, whole foods to creative, healthy concoctions, Arbol Eatery is cooking great things for health-conscious consumers.

At this upscale eatery, Chef Edwin Cruz, founder and co-owner, continues his mission to banish bland cuisine with his recipes and passion for creating delicious and memorable food. As one of the first chefs in North Carolina to incorporate the pop-up chef approach since 2007, with his booming catering company, Edwin’s Organix, Chef Edwin has met the rising demand for international foods, including Hispanic or Latinx, thanks in part to the increasing diversity of the U.S. population. Teamed up with lawyer, epicurean, and co-owner Mitch Coles, Arbol Eatery has

become the go-to for so many Charlotteans regularly and those visiting the Queen City.

The menu boasts the chef’s gourmet touch on a Latin fusion concept with gluten-free/ vegan options, crafted expresso bar drinks, healthy smoothies with many superfood options, acai bowls, soups, salads, and comfort foods with a vast array of fresh flavors. However, the greatness does not stop with the food. “Arbol” (Spanish for “Tree”) delivers a cultivated green space with plants and a comfortable vibe throughout the eatery. Patrons find themselves visiting for hours, enjoying not only the beauty but also the health benefits.

Visit Arbol Eatery’s website (www.arboleatery.com) to stay updated on menu specials and updates, events like the Yoga Rose Brunch Class, and so much more.

Photos by Rico Marcelo @ricomarcelophotography

BALLANTYNE DENTISTRY

The highly trained and experienced dentists at Ballantyne Dentistry provide exceptional, comprehensive adult dental care. Dr. Yaste, Dr. Tesmer and Dr. Binns offer nearly any dental treatment a patient could need to get their smile looking, feeling and functioning its best. This includes dental implants, cosmetic smile makeovers and full-mouth rehabilitation. They use a team approach to come up with the best treatment plan possible, ensuring patients get the best results. In dental school, Dr. Yaste had a bike accident that left him with several broken off front teeth and cuts to his face and mouth. Immediately after the accident, he found himself being rushed through the process of a dental emergency that left him scared with

dental phobia. It was at this point that he almost quit dental school, not being able to imagine a career of making people uncomfortable. Instead, he and his partner Dr. Joe embarked on a mission to find ways to make dentistry comfortable for their patients. His experience has made him more empathetic to the needs of his patients and helped develop the vision behind Ballantyne Dentistry. Ballantyne Dentistry provides all-in-one dental care under one roof including Cosmetic Dentistry, comprehensive General Dentistry, Sedation Dentistry, Implant Dentistry and more. No more driving to different offices, meeting with different doctors or receiving multiple bills. They are the one and only place to go in Charlotte for all your dental needs.

&

WhenLori Alessandrini opened Essential Aesthetics & Laser in 2013, she had no idea the business would grow into what is now "The Million Dollar Laser Spa". She still strives to bring a personal touch to her practice, making each person feel as if they were a part of her family, with lasting results to match. Essential has grown from her own personal practice to a team of 13. Today, the state of the art facility and separate permanent makeup studio, are located in a beautiful complex in the Blakeney area. In an effort to combine technology and beauty, Alessandrini's practice utilizes the newest innovative approaches and treatments for a wide range of services. Recently, Lori launched her own skincare line "Essential Skincare" and has added Laser Classes for other

licensed professionals to develop their skills. Unique to most other practices are their laser services. Essential houses over 1 Million Dollars worth of Laser technology. These services include laser hair removal, laser skin resurfacing, photofacials, tattoo and scar removal, and leg vein treatments. They were chosen out of every other med spa in the state to partner with Kim Kardashian in removing two facial tattoos for a North Carolina parolee. They continue to serve the community through their own program, Project Exodus. People coming out of the prison system looking for a better life can have gang related facial tattoos removed at no charge. When you step into Essential, you get the feeling that not only are they changing skin, they are changing lives.

BK PILATES

MAKE

YOURSELF YOUR PRIORITY IN 2023

Start

Theannual New Years Sale is kicking off, and it starts with prioritizing YOU first. As the king of pilates himself, Joseph Pilates is most famous for saying, "Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness." He believed that emotional health was inextricably linked to physical well being. BK Pilates is right there along with him. Take advantage of the annual New Years Sales.

• 10 Group Classes - Get 2 Free: $235 Expires 2 months from purchase

• 20 Group Classes - Get 5 Free: $450 Expires 4 months from purchase

• 30 Group Classes - Get 8 Free: $650 Expires 6 months from purchase

BK Pilates two (2) locations conveniently located in the heart of South End and SouthPark enable you to join small, intimate group classes, or focus on private 1-on-1 training and/or private small group sessions. Their goals are to make you feel good, move well and be kind to your body all year long. After all, "In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 sessions you'll see the difference, and in 30 sessions you'll have a whole new body". - Joseph Pilates.

*New to reformer in general? BK Pilates asks you to join for an introductory new client private session. $60 (reg. $75) for the month of January for all new BK Pilates clients new to the reformer or tower apparatus.

Plumped, Charlotte’s leading aesthetic boutique, located on bustling Morehead St., is revolutionizing medical spa services and standards in the area. With a highlytrained team of aestheticians and injectors, Plumped prides itself on empowering women to feel radiant and love the skin they’re in.

Owner, board-certified PA, and Master Injector Kristin Cabeda has dedicated the last 8+ years to providing the highest caliber of skin and body treatments to help clients restore their youthful glow, reclaim their confidence, and age with grace—with just the right touch of WOW. Recently named one of

the 100 Top Injectors in the country for the third time in a row, Cabeda’s reputation for injections has garnered praise from highprofile clients and celebrities, who seek out her aesthetic craftsmanship & unparalleled passion for the stunning results they desire. At Plumped, they’ve made it easy for their clients to learn, understand and experience non-invasive skincare treatments to high light their natural beauty.

The team at Plumped stands for excellence, experience, and effortlessly beautiful results. Call (704) 526-9321 to book an appointment. Ready, Set, GLOW!

Allen Tate Realtors ...........115 Anne Neilson Fine Art ...........31

.........95

Cadenza ....................................61

Cottingham Chalk ..............39

DTR SouthPark ......................65

Diamonds Direct ...Back Cover Dickens Mitchener............... 47

Donald Haack Diamonds .....15