South Charlotte LIVING
At Zinicola, the table is a celebration, a coming together of time and place bolstered by exceptional service and a warm, inviting atmosphere. We want you to feel at home. We want our food to inspire. We want you to know that a refined experience doesn’t have to feel cold. Instead, we aim to feed the soul and we invite you to our table. Above all else, we welcome you to sample our authentic Italian cuisine & wine selection today!
Extraordinary Women Are Everywhere!
It’s exciting to celebrate women who are extraordinary in this issue. Of course, we couldn’t feature all of them here but there are so many who are worthy of recognition. Women make a difference in the world while carrying heavy loads at home, with kids and families, in their marriages, in their careers and in every aspect of living. An example of a very extraordinary woman who caught our eye is Julie Holmes, the honorable Mrs. South Carolina who is headed to the Mrs. USA competition in August! We are so proud of her in all the endeavors of her life.
southcharlottelivingmag.com facebook.com/southcharlotteliving instagram.com/southcharlotteliving
Melinda Burris Publisher
Melinda Burris, Edie Marshall Editors
Melissa Latin Creative Director
Julie Holmes, Effie Russell, Edie Marshall, Melinda Burris, Priti Patel, Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku Writers
Jill Robinson, Daniel Coston, JK Images, LLC, Julie Holmes, Priti Patel and Le Petit Spa, Karen Mendenhall and Stage It! Charlotte, Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku, Hotel Bennett in Charleston, SC, Running Mom Photography Photographers
Picante Creative Design & Production
Rachel Moore
Ad Designs and Social Media
Barbara McKay Advisor
Other notable women who exemplify strength, courage, great talents and kindness featured this year include one of the best businesswomen in South Charlotte who started and owns two spas. Priti Patel has been an extraordinary trailblazer in business and as an esthetician. Karen Mendenhall is a dynamic, highly regarded international leader in the fields of interior design, staging and home renovations. Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku is an outstanding gynecologist who has made a difference in the lives of many women and continues to do so every day.
In praise of women everywhere, we send you on a girls’ trip to Charleston, SC and we share with you a treat with strawberries and cream.
We love all the extraordinary women in South Charlotte and everywhere for all they do!
Melinda
Publisher
South Charlotte Living SouthCharlotteLivingMag.com info@SouthCharlotteLivingMag.com
Melinda Burris
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Dr. Erin Koballa, DVM
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Felix Sabates Hosted the Allegro Foundation’s 15th Annual Ambassador’s Ball at Quail Hollow Country Club
The Allegro Foundation’s Ball each year benefits Children Living with Disabilities. His Excellency, Jose Manuel Romualdez, Ambassador of the Philippines to the United States was the honorary guest this year. Domtar was the presenting sponsor for the event held at Quail Hollow Country Club. The extraordinary Pat Farmer, Allegro’s Founder/President accepted a significant donation from the Wells Fargo Championship in honor of Felix Sabates. US Congressman Robet Pittenger attended the beautiful event along with other honored guests, sponsors, the organization’s directors, Allegro students, teaching assistants, and volunteers. Larry Sprinkle from WCNC was Master of Ceremonies and Auctioneer for the evening.
> To learn more about the Allegro Foundation and to consider giving your support, visit allegrofoundation.net or call 704.364.4063.
The Crown Jewels (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Celebrates During Its 10th Crowning Achievement Event
Proud, extraordinary members of the Crown Jewels (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated honored scholarship recipients and recognized outstanding community program partners at their 10th Annual Crowning Achievements Celebration held at the Havey B. Gantt Center for Arts and Culture in Uptown Charlotte. The Crown Jewels culminated its fiscal year with support to community programs and by awarding college scholarships to 26 graduating students from Charlotte-Mecklenburg and surrounding county schools. This year the chapter awarded $95,000 in scholarships as a result of fundraising efforts during the chapter’s 18th Annual Mardi Gras Gala held in February 2025. The Crown Jewels (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated›s members are professional women residing in the Charlotte area. The chapter was chartered in Charlotte in 1993 and is one of more than 300 Links chapters across the country and internationally. > Visit linksinc.org to learn more about the Links, Incorporated and the organization’s impact on service to our communities.
From Mom to Mrs. South Carolina
Written by:
Julie Holmes and Effie Russell
Photography by:
Julie Holmes, Jill Robinson and Running Mom
Photography
Julie Holmes Turns Purpose
into a Crown
“And your new Mrs. South Carolina 2025 is… JULIE HOLMES!”
Julie Holmes still remembers the moment her name echoed through the theater at the North & South Carolina Pageants in Lincolnton, NC. “I could hardly believe my ears,” she recalls. “To be named Mrs. South Carolina America—it’s a title with such a rich legacy of inspiring, accomplished women. I kept thinking, how did I become one of them?”
A couple of months have passed since that life-changing moment, and Julie is still adjusting to her new role. A devoted wife to husband Greg and mother to three beautiful, young children all under the age of five, Julie balances a full life in Indian Land, SC, where the family has lived since 2016. Together, they own The Window Source of the Carolinas, a residential window and door replacement company serving
both North and South Carolina. Julie also works as the office manager at Grace’s Skincare Lounge, a med spa in Charlotte.
Beyond business and family, Julie has long been committed to serving her community. She volunteers with the Family Room through the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Charlotte at Hemby Children’s Hospital and has spearheaded numerous fundraisers and donation drives supporting local families in need. A member of Forest Hill Waxhaw church, Julie and her family live out their faith through active community involvement.
Health and wellness also play a big role in Julie’s life. She’s a firm believer in the importance of staying active—physically, mentally, and spiritually. “Taking care of myself allows me to better care for my family and others,” she says.
Finding Purpose Through Adversity
Julie’s platform as Mrs. South Carolina is deeply personal: advocacy for Ronald McDonald House Charities. “When our son Mason was just 11 months old, he was hospitalized twice in one month with serious respiratory issues. It was terrifying,” Julie recalls. “A nurse sent me to the Family Room to grab a coffee. I was exhausted and overwhelmed—and then a volunteer offered me books, socks, toys, snacks—things you don’t think you need to pack in an emergency. That moment changed everything for me. I knew I had to give back to this organization that gave me so much comfort when I needed it most.”
A First-Time Pageant Queen—At 41
Julie’s journey to the crown may seem like a story decades in the making, but in fact, this was her very first pageant—ever. “When I turned 40, I felt this inner push to challenge myself, which I now know was God’s voice” she shares. “The past few years were a whirlwind of babies, diapers, and sleepless nights. I loved those years, but I needed something just for me.”
She found inspiration in watching the journey of a former Mrs. South Carolina titleholder. “I kept thinking, Why not me?” In the fall of 2024, she submitted her application, nerves and self-doubt in tow. “I kept thinking, What am I doing? I’m 40, I have three little kids, I’ve never done a pageant in my life… I was terrified of embarrassing myself.”
But then came the phone call from Wendy Galle, the pageant director. “We clicked immediately,” Julie says. “She made me feel seen and supported—like I belonged.”
The seven months that followed were a whirlwind of preparation: walking
lessons, wardrobe fittings, workshops, and community service. “I kept telling myself to get comfortable being uncomfortable,” she laughs. “One of the best surprises was the sisterhood. You never know what to expect in an allfemale competition, but it was nothing but support, encouragement, and real friendships. Women lifting up other women. It was beautiful.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Julie’s hope is to inspire other women— especially mothers—to step outside of their comfort zones and rediscover themselves. “So often, moms put themselves last. We lose our identity in the busyness of raising a family, however this experience helped me find a new part of myself. I want every woman to know they can do something bold and unexpected, whether it’s a pageant or another personal challenge. You’ll come out of it stronger and more confident.”
She’s already planting the seeds of that message close to home. “I bring my
youngest, Mason, to sponsor meetings and Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce events. The motto of the Mrs. America organization is “We are Family” and this fits perfectly into our lifestyle. It’s important that my kids see me giving back, helping others, and showing that service is essential to building strong communities.”
What’s Next?
Julie will represent South Carolina on the national stage this August at the Mrs. America competition in Las Vegas. First held in 1938 and revived in 1977, the Mrs. America pageant is the premier competition for married women in the United States, celebrating family, community, and excellence across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
For Julie Holmes, the road to the crown was paved not with pageant experience, but with purpose, passion, and a fierce belief that it’s never too late to chase a new dream. Best of luck to you Julie and we hope the best for you!
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Brenda Lieberman, NP, Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku, Dr. Deborah Warren
Extraordinary Beauty Pretty is as Priti Does!
Written by: Effie Russell, Edie Marshall and Priti Patel
Photography by: Priti Patel, Le Petit Spa and Provided
The extraordinarily beautiful, Priti Patel is one of the best if not the best estheticians in the entire Charlotte metro area. Her award-winning spas in Charlotte are the best and known for doing it all to pamper her clients’ skin.
Priti’s interest in beauty and skin care started like most young girls: trying out mommy’s makeup and wonderfully fragrant lotions and cremes. From those roots she developed her love for fabulous, beautiful skin. With all that she has learned, she shares and educates her clients on fine skin care and makeup techniques. She specializes in many categories but especially facials, medical grade chemical peels, threading, waxing and mineral based makeup. She loves her clients and always welcomes new ones to her spas.
Priti and Le Petit Spas hold the gold standard in Charlotte for exceptional services by helping clients improve and love the skin they live in. Each client is uniquely beautiful, and Priti’s individualized services bring results that all her clients desire and deserve.
Priti moved to Charlotte to share her passion and expertise with the Queen City. She launched her first location in South Park and later, she opened her
second location in Ballantyne to expand to a broader client base. Her talented staff members share the same drive to satisfy clients that she has.
Le Petit Spa is highly regarded and consistently receives high ratings from clients. Her spas have also won many awards during the last 15 years including South Charlotte Living Magazine’s Favorite Spa Competition for two years in a row!
The Le Petit experience is more than just an appointment for threading, facials, chemical peels or waxing. It’s a
chance for you to spend some time in a serene environment and allows you to be pampered for a change. It is during this time that your spirit can be revived and feel the recapture of your glow.
> Priti and her team welcome you to visit, relax and renew at either of their locations, Le Petit Spa Ballantyne, 12105 Copper Way #202, Charlotte, NC 28277, 704.389.8362 and Le Petit Spa South Park, 6324 Fairview Road #101, Charlotte, NC 28210, 980.406.3269, lepetitspacharlotte.com.
Priti Patel
Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku Provides
Extraordinary Health Care W
Arboretum Gynecology is the Best for Women
Written by: Effie Russell and Melinda Willms
Photography by: Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku, Arboretum Gynecology and Provided
We are proud to honor one of our Favorite Marketing Partners, Dr. Mala FreemanKwaku, a board-certified gynecologist who has dedicated her career to providing exceptional care to her patients. Her holistic approach to patient care and her genuine interest in getting to know her patients are what make her extraordinary. We celebrate and show appreciation for Dr. Freeman-Kwaku’s tireless commitment to women’s health.
Dr. Freeman-Kwaku, a boardcertified obstetrician/gynecologist, has the knowledge and skills to identify and provide the best health care solutions for women.
She was born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia. After completing her undergraduate degree and her medical training from the University of Virginia, she finished her residency at Georgetown University. Dr. Freeman-Kwaku joined Arboretum Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2002. After 20 years practicing Obstetrics, she has transitioned the practice to gynecological care only. Dr.
Mala has been named as one of the top three best rated Gynecologists in Charlotte by ThreeBestRated.com.
Arboretum Gynecology is recognized as a leader in the best options for women as evidenced by being one of only a few practices offering Cerene, an endometrial ablation treatment which is a hormonefree treatment designed to help women find relief from excessive bleeding and pain. It is an office-based procedure with
quick recovery and no hospital stay. This treatment is ideal for women who have completed their families, are ready to take control over their lives and would like to explore options for better health in a supportive, caring environment.
Dr. Mala and her all-female staff are committed to their patients at Arboretum Gynecology. New patients are encouraged to explore all the possibilities at the practice where women help take care of women.
Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku
Some of the many concerns that the team can address with your best care in mind include:
• Pre-Menopause, Menopause and Post Menopause
• Painful Periods, Properly Fitted IUD’s and Birth Control
• Healthy Fertility and Planned Pregnancies, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
• HPV
• Vaginal Dryness
• Sex Drive
• Hormonal Balance
• Yeast Infections
• Bladder Leaks
• Urination Issues, Cervical Cancer and other Cancers
• Uterine Fibroids, Heart Disease
• Midday Fatigue and Blood Sugar Crashes
• Health Scams
• Healthy Weight Loss and Ozempic and other GLP meds and more.
Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku is married to Dr. Hans Kwaku and they have four children. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, travel and being involved in her church. Dr. Freeman-Kwaku also enjoys getting to know her patients very well and feels it is important to consider the whole woman when evaluating their health care needs.
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Written by: Effie Russell and Melinda Burris
Karen Mendenhall and Stage It! Charlotte Bring Extraordinary Interior Design Services
to Charlotte and to the Entire US!
Karen Mendenhall is the creative force behind Stage It! Charlotte, the premier home staging and design company serving the greater Charlotte, NC region and beyond. In 2004, she was one of the pioneers who helped launch the southern US market for home staging, embarking on a nearly 20-year journey that has been challenging and fulfilling. Karen has grown her company from operating out of her home to storage units to a custom gorgeous warehouse and offices in Charlotte, complete with a design center where design and renovation clients can meet with her team to plan out their projects.
Photography by: Karen Mendenhall and Stage It! Charlotte
Kate Mendenhall
The Stage It! Charlotte team collaborates on every staging, renovation and interior design project, and each person brings a unique perspective to the table. The result showcases those diverse creative skills. Their unique combination of staging, designing and renovating allows only Stage It! Charlotte to get properties market ready from start to finish.
Karen brings her years of experience as a realtor, along with the distinction as an Accredited Staging Professional Master to each client’s project. Her success in marketing and selling homes has proven to be an invaluable asset in knowing what makes properties sell.
Whether working with homeowners to stage their homes for resale or staging them for their own enjoyment, Stage It! Charlotte brings distinction to every home to create a powerful first impression. The team also works with realtors and builders to design inviting environments for buyers. They take pride in providing superb service that makes every client’s job easier and add the little extras that make everyone say “WOW”!
Karen is an educator, having taught thousands of real estate agents and aspiring home stagers about the business of home staging, and she has mentored many industry colleagues through the years in her leadership roles with many interior design, and staging organizations. She is well known for her talents on national and international stages. She was invited to be a featured speaker at this year’s International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP) Conference. Many professionals across the country and around the world look up to her for her knowledge, talents and skills.
> Whether you’re a listing real estate agent or a homeowner seeking to sell or just to better enjoy your property, Karen and Stage It! Charlotte can provide some of the best services in interior design, staging and renovations. Stage It! Charlotte is located at 10039 Industrial Drive, Pineville, NC 28134. You can learn more at stageitcharlotte.com or call for a consultation at 704.847.3771.
Written by: Effie Russell and Edie Marshall
Photography: Provided
An Extraordinarily
Charming Girls’ Trip to Charleston, SC
Surprising many this year, Conde Nast named Charleston, SC one of the best cities in the world! You may agree or disagree with Conde Nast but if you’ve ever been there then you’ll at least have to agree that it is an amazing place and a great place to visit.
There’s a reason that Charleston was voted the best city. Known for its beauty, visitors are mesmerized by cobblestone streets and historic pastel homes that overlook Charleston Harbor, the site of seminal moments in American history. Charleston is pioneering the modern South by elevating tradition while honoring its complex past. You can completely immerse yourself in the South while visiting Charleston.
Charleston is the ‘charm city’ of the South which can make it comfortable for a quick trip, especially with the ladies. On the other hand, everything in Charleston comes with a slower pace and way of life so you may not be fully satisfied with just a short stay and may desire to enjoy a longer visit.
Charleston has everything; amazing food, incredible culture, a quaint, super-charming Southern-Colonial downtown with lovely colorful homes and shops at all price points, from small gift shops to designer boutiques including a Louis Vuitton store! Charleston also has a relaxed coast and gorgeous golf courses are nearby. Every day in Charleston can be a day of vacation which is why it’s such a great place to visit. You’ll find many favorite spots all over town.
Having visited Charleston over the years, first as a college student for a quick get-away, for family gatherings, romantic escapes, weddings (even my own) it will forever be near the top of my list of favorite places to visit.
There are many hotels and places to stay in Charleston but if you and your girls prefer sophisticated luxury accommodations then I highly recommend Hotel Bennett as an ideal choice. It’s been named the best hotel in Charleston by Conde Nast also. Hotel Bennett embodies the spirit of Charleston. Built by native Charlestonians, the lavish hotel opens up on King Street, the gateway to a prestigious culinary and cultural scene. Explore renowned restaurants, historic landmarks, shopping, arts, theater, outdoor activities, and endless escapes in and around the city with a European feel.
At Hotel Bennett, step into a design and architectural wonder. Inspired by the renowned Fabergé jewels, Camellias’ restaurant has an etched-mirror ceiling and crystal chandelier creating a breathtaking world unlike any other champagne lounge. Named “The Best Restaurant for Instagram” in South Carolina by Food Network, Camellias boasts an extensive collection of bottle and by-the-glass drinks paired with a decadent selection of caviar, charcuterie, local seafood and homemade desserts by La Pâtisserie. The bold pink interiors include marble reclaimed from the library that stood in this spot, a nod to the area’s rich history and tradition. If you’re looking to celebrate over Afternoon Tea or treat yourself with friends, Camellias will exceed your greatest expectations. It has a very special appeal to women who will want to toast themselves at the famed champagne bar. If you can’t make
it to Paris soon then this is the place to overcome your regrets.
In addition to Camellias, Hotel Bennett is the unrivaled destination for impeccable dining with its bold design and lavish rooftop views. Start your day with coffee on the outdoor terrace or at La Patisserie with pastries that transport you to the Champs-Élysées. You can also unwind with a rejuvenating treatment at the spa and after a day of exploring
Charleston, indulge in sunset aperitif on the roof, overlooking the cityscape. Dinner beckons you to Gabrielle, overlooking Marion Square, with its expansive menu followed by a night-cap at one of the hotel’s bars.
If budgets don’t allow the luxury prices at Hotel Bennett, then don’t panic. There are many other hotel choices to consider at lower prices and with quality ratings. Just know that we chose Hotel Bennett for this article because we always want to guide you to the best experiences first.
Once you settle into wherever you choose to reside for your stay then you’ll soon realize that you can find a lot of pleasure away from your hotel. There is so much to see and do in Charleston! Discover the rich history of Charleston during a horse-drawn carriage ride; sail on daytime, sunset, or luxury harbor dinner cruises; enjoy a dolphin watch; buckle up for old town trolley rides; take culinary and brunch walking tours or visit the scenic Magnolia Gardens. Time is also well spent during holiday celebrations and festivals.
> You can find everything you need to know about a visit to Charleston at getyourguide.com or at charlestoncvb.com. Enjoy!
THE CLUB AT LONGVIEW
North Carolina’s Premier Country Club in the Charlotte Area is the Club for Sharing All Your Special Moments with Friends and Family. Receive extraordinary service and enjoy all the club’s amenities with a club membership! Call 704.916.9223 or email us at membership@theclubatlongview.com to schedule a tour. Visit the Club’s website at theclubatlongview.com to
Sweet Treats for the Ladies!
Strawberries Are Our Favorites
Written by: Effie Russell Photography:
Provided
This season’s extraordinary taste good treat includes sweet, juicy strawberries, tender shortcakes, and rich whipped cream that combine for the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether served for a special occasion or a simple summer dessert, this timeless treat is always a crowd-pleaser and will satisfy any appetite!
Ingredients
4 cups fresh strawberries, cut into half or quarter thick slices
½ cup white sugar, divided in half if you’d like to sweeten your strawberries and the other half for your shortcakes
· 2 cups all-purpose flour
· 1 tablespoon baking powder
· ½ teaspoon salt
· ½ cup cold unsalted butter
· ⅔ cup milk
· 1 cup heavy cream
· ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar if you would like
Preparation
1. You can enjoy the natural sweetness of the strawberries, or you can place them in a bowl and stir in 1/4 cup sugar to make them sweeter. Refrigerate until sugar has dissolved, about 30 minutes if you prefer the additional sweetness.
2. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F
3. Place flour, remaining 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Cut butter into 8 pieces and add to the bowl. Cut butter into flour mixture with a pastry cutter or 2 knives until finely crumbled. Add milk and stir until dough comes together.
4. Place dough on a lightly floured surface and turn to coat with flour. Fold dough in half, press down, and push forward with the heel of your hand. Turn 90 degrees. Repeat 12 times.
5. Roll dough out to 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thickness. Cut into squares or cut into 4-inch circles with a ring cutter or a cookie cutter. Place shortcakes on an ungreased baking sheet.
6. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. While your cakes are baking, pour heavy cream into a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer until increased in volume, but is still soft. Add confectioners’ sugar according to your taste for sweetness and mix in to combine with the cream. You can also purchase whipped cream or cool whip to eliminate the time for making your own whipped cream if you’d prefer.
8. Top each shortcake with whipped cream and spoon strawberries on top. Yum!
Town & Country Estates
Huntcliffe
Tuckaway Park
Old Foxcroft
Barclay Downs
Foxcroft
Piper Glen
Providence Country Club
Firethorne Country Club
Kingsmead
$2,495,000
$1,849,000
$1,675,000
$3,795,000
$2,450,000
$5,947,000
$1,479,000
$1,750,000
$1,995,000
$1,499,000
$2,375,000
$1,849,000
$1,525,000
$3,850,000
$3,700,000
Art Galleries:
Providence Art Gallery
Auto - New, Used, and Service:
Mercedes Benz of South Charlotte
Country Clubs:
The Club at Longview
Education:
Barbara McKay, Speaker and Author
Carmel Christian School
Entertainment:
Israel Devaux, Pianist
Charlotte Ballet
Paul Williams III, Photography
Financial Services:
Wealth Enhancement Group
David Ragosta, TaylorMade Home Loans
Gina LaRosa, Mutual of Omaha Reverse Mortgages
Fitness & Wellness:
Perspire Sauna
New Day Wellness Center
Home Accessories:
Backyard Flavor
Curtains and Company, Pineville
Home Furnishings and Interior Design:
Nouvelle Furnishings
Stage It, Staging, Interior Designs and Renovations
Home Services:
A Diamond In The Rough Cleaning
Window Source of the Carolinas
Hotels:
Hyatt Centric SouthPark
Physicians & Medical:
Arboretum Dentistry
Arboretum Gynecology
FYZICAL Pineville
Dr. Kristin Black, New Day Wellness Center
Professional Services:
Zeaba Computer Solutions
Real Estate:
Anise Monroe, Alliance Realty
Jackie Smith, Charlotte’s Finest
Properties, RE/MAX Executive
Michelle Zawacki, BHHS Carolinas Realty
Robin Nitsche, Premier Sotheby’s
International Realty
Marsela Green, BHHS Carolinas Realty
Restaurants:
C&W Steakhouse Ballantyne
Sunflour Baking Company
Zinicola Italian Restaurant
Giovanna Italian Restaurant
Amelie’s - French Bakery and Cafe
MIZU Wood-Fired Grill Restaurant
Enzo’s Italian Market
Salons and Spas:
BJ Cherry Hair Designs
Le Petit Spa
Shopping:
DSRVNG
Plaza Appliance Mart
Paul Simon Men and Paul Simon Women
Veterinarians and Pet Care:
Charlotte Companion Animal Hospital
