Greensboro, High Point and Winston-Salem’s Curated Lifestyle & Design Magazine
REFINED DESIGN
EDITOR from the
Happy spring, MOD community! I’m Kathryn Smith, and as nature bursts into new life, I’m excited to embrace my own new beginning as your latest editor. The season of renewal feels perfectly timed with my journey joining this vibrant publication. I can’t wait to connect with each of you and explore the stories that make our community bloom.
As a longtime educator, I have spent much of my career teaching fifth grade English Language Arts, where storytelling is one of my greatest passions. My family roots are here in High Point, with my husband and our teenage daughter, while our son is pursuing his own path in the working world. This role perfectly blends my love for narratives and my connection to this community. I’m excited to have you join me on this journey!
Our home feature transports readers to a recent build in Greensboro’s Sedgefield Country Club neighborhood. Designer Stephanie James shares intimate insights into the creative journey behind this exceptional residence where innovative design meets visionary architecture.
In this issue’s Book Club feature, we highlight Winston-Salem author Ed Southern, who turned his love of writing as a childhood into a meaningful career. In his latest novel, he explores the cultural significance of college sports in the South.
The inspiration behind Greensboro’s Blowouts and Bubbles came from a personal need that Armine Cisneros identified in the market. Her salon provides her clients a space for confidence and connection in an atmosphere for genuine relaxation.
Meet High Point native, Anna Eskew, whose love for watercolor has blossomed into a unique business capturing not only the architectural details of homes, but also the rich emotional landscapes they represent.
We celebrate the art of preservation and reinvention through Velencia Haizlip, owner of Sew-U-Unique, who breathes new life into cherished garments through custom sewing and alterations.
In our Society Sightings column, we highlight two unforgettable weddings in the Triad. Greensboro couple Annalise Connelly and John Slife celebrated with an elegant ceremony, beautifully enhanced by ABBA Design’s floral artistry and personal touches. High Point native Mary Kathryn Field married New Orleans-born Will Mallery in a joyous celebration that blended cherished family traditions with the vibrant spirit of his hometown.
Peek inside Restoration MedSpa’s 2025 beauty innovations featuring advanced skin analysis technology and personalized treatment plans at their Winston-Salem and Greensboro locations.
Get ready to elevate your home’s style as Kathy O’Brien shares insider secrets on how to beautifully display your art collection.
As we wrap up this issue, I’m thrilled to be here, and look forward to bringing you more inspiring stories and expert insights. I hope you enjoy the sunshine as much as I do as we head into the upcoming warmer months!
Kathryn Smith, editor-in-chief
CONTE
CONTE NTS
REFINED DESIGN
Designer Stephanie James explores the intersection of style and functionality in this stunning Greensboro residence where modern design meets timeless elegance.
STROKES OF NOSTALGIA
Discover how artist Anna Eskew uses watercolor to create vivid portraits of homes that go beyond architecture, capturing the emotional connections and personal histories they embody.
BEHIND THE MYTHS
Dive into the latest novel by Winston-Salem author Ed Southern, a thought-provoking exploration of how college sports shape Southern identity and community.
ART THAT TRANSFORMS YOUR SPACE
Unlock the secrets to creating a stunning home gallery with expert insights from Kathy O’Brien. Discover how to elevate your living space with beautifully curated art collections.
OASIS OF TRANQUILITY
Armine Cisneros offers a serene escape in Greensboro, a haven for relaxation that’s more than just a salon.
ADVANCED AESTHETICS
Experience the latest advancements in beauty technology at Restoration MedSpa, where personalized care meets innovative solutions for radiant skin.
SEWN WITH INTENTION
Step into the world of Velencia Haizlip, where sewing is not just a craft, but a lifelong passion.
DESIGN REFINED
NNestled in elegant and picturesque Sedgefield Country Club, this newly built home is a stunning example of contemporary excellence and impeccable craftsmanship. Created by a talented team of professionals, the property features refined interior design and a remarkable level of attention to detail.
The collaborative efforts of designer Stephanie James of Stephanie James Interiors in High Point, architect Kim Carlson and the expert craftsmanship of Jim Wolf Homes resulted in a home that exudes both sophistication and comfort. Together with their client, they have created a space that feels both expansive and intimate, functional yet awe-inspiring. The use of different materials, including wood and stone, adds interest and warmth while the thoughtful placement of windows creates truly spectacular views.
Stephanie recounts the serendipitous nature of how she was introduced to her client. “I was at a show house one day, handing out my business cards. Show houses can be challenging because you invest so much time and effort without knowing what will come of it. But then, a year and a half later, my client showed up at my store. She had kept my card all that time.” From that initial meeting, the vision for this remarkable home began to unfold.
“My client’s aesthetic was clear. She desired a home that felt modern and fresh, yet timeless and warm,” Stephanie’s design philosophy is built to achieve balance—combining stark contrasts like white walls with rich, natural materials such as wood and incorporating unique statement pieces that elevate the space. “The design needed to feel open and airy but still cozy,” Stephanie explains. “The scale of the furniture, the textures we selected and the use of custom pieces all came together to create a space that felt just right.”
One of the home’s standout features is the entryway, which immediately draws visitors in. As visitors walk across a wooden bridge-like zen walkway, they are greeted by textured stone walls that create a sense of grounded beauty. The space effortlessly blends the natural environment with the home’s interior, inviting in light and a sense of tranquility.
The stark yet inviting contrast between the white walls and the natural wood elements appears throughout the home. From the custom pivot door at the entrance to the carefully curated lighting and furniture, the home is filled with striking details. “The foyer piece, for example, was custom made to work with the scale of the space,” says Stephanie. “I wanted everything to feel grand but not overdone. It had to breathe.”
Perhaps one of the most personal and inviting spaces in the home is the music room located near the front of the house. Serving as both a tranquil retreat and an ideal place for entertaining, this room seamlessly blends modern furnishings with the timeless beauty of nature. The space features two wing chairs that provide stylish, comfortable seating.
The music room plays a pivotal role in the home’s layout. While the piano is not immediately visible in certain views, its presence anchors the space, reinforcing its purpose as an area for enjoying music and relaxing. The room sits just off the entryway, allowing for an open, welcoming feel that flows into the rest of the home.
“We brought in bonsai trees and Japanese maples that you can see from inside the music room, adding another layer of design that ties the exterior landscape and interior together,” Stephanie notes. The space is truly a visual and sensory experience and includes sculptural elements such as bronze statues.
Custom design was a key element of this home’s success, and that’s where the true artistry of Stephanie and her client shines.
“Working closely with the architect ensured that every room, every detail and every view was meticulously thought out,” says Stephanie. The use of natural light, large windows and thoughtfully placed pieces are a testament to this collaborative effort. The living room, for instance, boasts expansive maple wood floors and custom furniture that fits the scale of the space perfectly. The lower-profile furniture ensures unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, with the golf course and walking trails just beyond the home.
Stephanie’s design approach always keeps the importance of space in mind. The home’s openness, particularly in the main living areas, reflects this philosophy. “You have to get the scale right,” she explains. “I never want to overcrowd a room. Instead, I want the furniture to enhance the space without overwhelming it.”
This principle is evident in the spacious kitchen, where an island takes center stage, featuring stunning honed stone countertops that were pattern-matched, not book-matched—a choice Stephanie particularly values for its unique and organic appearance. The kitchen seamlessly flows into the club room, which includes a golf simulator, further blending luxury and functionality.
The custom details extend to the home’s lighting as well. “We fabricated custom lighting pieces, pulling parts from other designs to create a look that was in tune with the home’s scale and modern elegance,” Stephanie shares. From large statement fixtures to smaller accent lights, every lighting element is tailored to elevate the space while remaining understated.
The aesthetics of the home are undeniably stunning, but the functionality of the design is equally important. Every detail was thoughtfully considered, from the spacious mudroom and laundry area to the luxurious primary suite, ensuring the space met the family’s needs without compromising on style. “My client’s closet is incredibly spacious,” Stephanie notes. “It’s designed to be both luxurious and practical.” With comfort and luxury at the forefront of every decision, the home balances the two.
coverings, adding an extra layer of texture and warmth to the home’s modern design.
While the interiors of the home is undeniably exquisite, the outdoor spaces are equally impressive. A perfect blend of natural beauty and contemporary elegance, the backyard was designed as a space to relax, entertain and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
Stephanie also worked with her client to source high quality fabrics from all over the world, including Italy, Belgium, Turkey and Paris. “The fabrics were a huge part of the overall design,” she explains. “We didn’t compromise on anything. We waited for the right pieces, and the results were worth it.” These custom fabrics were used in furniture, drapery and wall
At the heart of this outdoor oasis is a pool that combines fire and water features, creating a dramatic visual contrast that enhances the overall ambiance. The flickering flames and cascading waterfall create a mesmerizing effect, transforming the space into a serene retreat. Whether viewed during the day or illuminated at night, this outdoor space captures the essence of modern luxury living.
“The architecture really made the most of the views and the space,” Stephanie says. “Kim did an incredible job of making the home feel intimate and welcoming. It’s not just a house; it’s a collection of moments.”
Jim Wolf Homes’ craftsmanship ensured that every detail was executed to perfection. Stephanie says, “The builder was fantastic, working closely with us to make sure everything was just right. The attention to detail really elevated the project,” Stephanie reflects on the blend of modernity and timeless design. “This home feels like it could stand the test of time,” she says. “It doesn’t feel dated. It’s not bound by trends. It’s a house that will age gracefully, and that’s what I love about it.” The unique combination of natural materials, custom design elements and modern architecture ensures that this home will remain both stylish and functional for generations to come. Stephanie notes that working on a project like this is truly rewarding when all the elements come together. “It’s the synergy between the client, the architect and the builder that makes these projects so exciting. When everyone works together toward a common goal, it’s a win-win.” And in this case, the result is a truly exceptional home—a masterpiece of design, functionality and vision.
This Sedgefield home is a stunning example of what a team of talented professionals can achieve when they come together with a client. Through their hard work, dedication and creativity, Stephanie James, Kim Carlson and Jim Wolf Homes have created a home that will be cherished for years to come.
– Kathryn Smith, editor-in-chief
Regarding the Home...
INTERIOR DESIGNER: Stephanie James Interiors
ARCHITECT: Kim Carlson
BUILDERS: Wolf Homes
MOD Society Magazine
Greensboro, High Point, Winston-Salem Vol. 7 No. 1
ON THE COVER
Stephanie James Interiors
PUBLISHER
MSM Media, LLC
Kathryn George
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kathryn Smith
Editor@yourMODsociety.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Marisa Faircloth, PA-C
Kathy O’Brien
COPY EDITOR
Jennifer Weaver-Spencer
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Brand and Bloom Photography
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Aura Lake Photography Micciche Photography
LAYOUT AND DESIGN
Crystal Staley
ADVERTISING
Advertising@yourMODsociety.com
Featured Home Photos yourMODsociety.com MODsocietyMagazine #marvelouslyMOD
Cover: Entryway
Page 12-13: Music Room
Page 14-15: Living Room
Pages 17: Foyer
Page 18-19: Kitchen
Page 20-21: Dining Room
Page 22: Primary Suite
Page 23: Primary Suite Closet
Page 24: Bathroom
Page 25: Bathroom
Page 26: Study
Page 27; Pool (top left)
Landscape (top right)
Landscape (bottom left)
Pool (bottom right)
Page 28: Home exterior (top & bottom)
StrokesNostalgia
For Anna Eskew, a Charlotte-based commission artist and founder of Creannative, LLC, art has been a lifelong passion. Born and raised in High Point, Anna’s artistic journey began as a natural extension of her creativity and curiosity. She discovered her talent early on, finding her artistic voice around the age of 12.
“Art just came naturally to me,” Anna reflects. By middle school, she was already selling her creations to friends and family, creating custom Lily Pulitzer-inspired paintings adorned with monograms that quickly gained popularity. Her entrepreneurial spirit took flight on Etsy, where she showcased her work until high school. When Anna enrolled at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she temporarily paused her art business during her freshman and sophomore years due to time and space constraints. However, things changed when she moved into a house her junior year, gaining a studio space that allowed her to revive and
expand her business. She continued working as a commission artist and began selling wholesale, marking a significant growth period for her artistic endeavors.
After graduating, Anna joined the team of Laura Park Designs in Charlotte, where she worked in marketing. This experience proved invaluable, offering her insights into the business side of the art world. “I learned how to apply a creative mind to a business format,” she says. Yet, despite the satisfaction of her day job, Anna found herself drawn to her own art. Each evening, she would eagerly return home to paint, sometimes working late into the night.
By August 2023, Anna decided it was time to take a leap of faith. She left her marketing role to dedicate herself fully to her art. Setting up a studio desk in her apartment, she launched her online business Creannative, specializing in custom watercolor paint and ink house portraits. Social media platforms including Instagram have also played a vital role in her marketing strategy, helping her connect with a broader audience.
Transitioning to working from home full-time came with its own set of challenges. “Sticking to a 9-to-5 schedule can be hard when you see the work in front of you,” Anna admits. But she has learned to set boundaries. “When it’s 5 o’clock, I turn off painting mode and switch on relaxing mode. I see the work that needs to be done, but I have to take time for myself so I don’t start resenting the thing that makes me happy.”
It’s a way for people to commemorate, remember and cherish a home forever.
Anna’s passion lies in capturing the essence of homes through her realistic watercolor paintings. Unlike abstract art, her work requires precision and attention to detail. “There’s an absolute to it. You can either get it right or get it wrong; there’s no gray area,” she explains. For Anna, painting houses is more than just a job—it’s a way to preserve memories. “What I love about painting homes is that it’s something that really doesn’t go out of style. It’s a way for people to commemorate, remember and cherish a home forever.”
Although her favorite medium is watercolor, Anna also works with acrylics to create hand-painted Christmas ornaments and college collages on canvas. Her love of
UNC Chapel Hill has inspired her to paint fraternity and sorority houses, along with other campus landmarks. All of which have become cherished pieces for Tarheel alumni and fans.
Her artistic calendar stays packed, often booking commission paintings two to three months in advance. Graduation and Christmas seasons are especially busy, and Anna’s custom pet portraits are a favorite for holiday gifts. Her meticulously hand-painted, customizable ornaments are sold wholesale at women’s boutiques such as Monkee’s in High Point and Whilden Boutique in Chapel Hill.
The wedding industry is becoming another promising avenue for Anna’s talents. “People love watercolors, pastels and dainty details for invitations,” she notes.
Although she has already designed a few custom wedding invitations, the opportunities for creating other keepsakes such as wedding crests, monograms and venue portraits open new doors for her thriving business.
As Creannative continues to grow, Anna’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the rewards of following your passion. With each brushstroke, she not only brings homes to life but also builds a career rooted in authenticity, creativity and heart. For Anna Eskew, the leap was worth it, and her story is just beginning.
– Kathryn Smith, editor-in-chief
SOCIETY SIGHTINGS
photography by aura lake photography
Connelly-Slife Wedding
Annalise Connelly and John Slife’s wedding at the Rotunda of Greensboro Country Club perfectly captured the essence of a dream celebration. With ABBA Design’s expert planning and artistic flair, their special day exceeded all expectations. The entryway featured an elegant arrangement of lush greenery and flowers, creating a striking first impression. Exquisite floral arrangements in architectural niches and along the processional path added elegance and refinement, highlighting the thoughtful design.
The reception space was transformed into a stunningly beautiful setting. Additional floral designs were accented by touches of blue, the bride’s signature color, and blended
seamlessly into the décor. The ABBA Design team crafted a hand-painted bar and integrated the couple’s monogram into the dance floor design, perfectly complementing the floral accents on the stage. The attention to detail was evident in every aspect, elevating the romantic ambiance and making the space truly unforgettable.
The wedding blended custom touches and exquisite flowers to create a truly personalized celebration that reflected the bride’s vision. Surrounded by loved ones, the magical evening will become a cherished memory.
The lovely bride, Annalise
The newlyweds
Greensboro Country Club Rotunda
The happy couple
Dancing the night away
SOCIETY SIGHTINGS
photography by aura lake photography
Field-Mallery Wedding
Mary Kathryn Field and Will Mallery were married surrounded by friends and family on September 14, 2024 in the bride’s hometown of High Point. After meeting at Washington & Lee University School of Law six years earlier, it was only fitting that the groom’s law school band, the Woods Creek Wranglers, kicked off the weekend with a surprise concert on Friday evening after the rehearsal dinner and post-toast at the String & Splinter Club. The bride walked down the aisle at Wesley Memorial Methodist Church, where her parents were married and both she and her sister were christened. Mary Kathryn wore a wedding gown originally purchased by her great grandfather
for her great aunt’s wedding in 1962 and worn again by her aunt in 1985.
Along with the bride and groom, guests danced to Infinity Show Band at the reception at High Point Country Club. Colorful arrangements mirroring the bright theme of the weekend were prepared by Cindy Armfield and Dawn Bingham, both of High Point, and displayed in custom pieces by LiBird Studio of New Orleans. In a nod to the groom’s hometown of New Orleans, the reception transitioned to the after party with a traditional second line around the Emerywood golf course to the getaway car (and buses!) to enjoy the vibrant High Point nightlife.
Mary Kathryn and her bridesmaids
Mary Kathryn & Bunny
Mr. & Mrs. Mallery
Just married
Groomsmen
The first dance
Behind THE MYTHS
The North Carolina Writers’ Network, a nonprofit organization celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, has been a cornerstone for connecting, promoting and serving writers throughout the state. By providing education in the craft and business of writing, opportunities for recognition and critique and resources for writers at every stage of their journey, the Network upholds a vibrant literary culture. It also champions North Carolina’s literary heritage, fostering a supportive community for those who write.
Among the key figures driving this mission is Winston-Salem author Ed Southern, whose career exemplifies a deep commitment to storytelling and the exploration of the South’s cultural and historical complexities. As the executive director of the North Carolina Writers’ Network, Ed is not only an advocate for writers but also a testament to the transformative power of curiosity and perseverance.
Ed’s love affair with words began in childhood, nourished by a voracious appetite for books. Yet, the realization that he could become a writer himself didn’t crystallize until high school. “I didn’t think about writing, really,” Ed admits. “That just didn’t seem like something a kid from the Carolinas could do until I was in high school.” It was during these
formative years that Ed discovered the human effort behind the stories he loved.
“Being an author seemed too crazy as a kid,” he recalls. “But in high school, I began to think about actually pursuing writing in some way.”
By 2019, Ed had published several works when inspiration struck for his latest book, Fight Songs: A Story of Love and Sports in the Complicated South. This engaging exploration of college sports examines their deep ties to the culture, economy, and identity of the Southeastern United States. The idea for the book, Ed explains, came to him during the 2019 National Championship game between Alabama and Clemson.
As a Wake Forest University graduate and dedicated sports fan, Ed already had a passion for college athletics. However, the pivotal moment occurred while watching the game with his wife, an ardent Alabama fan. “The game had started, and I was putting our daughter to bed when I heard my wife scream,” he recounts. “She’s one of the most selfcontrolled, rational people I know, but she was lying on the floor with her head in her hands after an interception by Tua Tagovailoa. That was the moment I realized, ‘OK, I’m going to have to write something about this game.’”
Writing Fight Songs presented its challenges. The book became a deep exploration of the South’s strong connection to college sports, especially football, as Ed aimed to uncover the truths behind the myths surrounding the region’s sports culture. “I didn’t have the liberty to make the story fit what I wanted to say. I had to find out what the story really was,” he explains. Ed admits he sometimes wished for the research skills a graduate degree in history might have provided. “Every answer I found just led to more questions. Knowing where to begin was often the hardest part.”
Despite these challenges, Ed embraced the process, driven by his desire to understand the deeper meaning behind cultural rituals like Alabama’s Iron Bowl or North Carolina’s former devotion to the ACC basketball tournament.
“Why is it that we use the past tense when talking about North Carolina and the ACC tournament but the present tense when talking about Alabama and the Iron Bowl?” he asks. These questions, rooted in history and identity, became central to Fight Songs.
Ed aims for readers to finish Fight Songs with a greater appreciation of how sports and culture intersect. “I didn’t set out to make a point; I set out to explore these questions,” he says. “If there’s one takeaway, it’s to not accept the myths we’re handed or the easy answers we’re fed.”
To Ed, sports are not merely games but reflections of our history, identity and priorities. “On one hand, it’s fun and games. It’s show business in some regards. But because we take it so seriously, it becomes serious.”
As Ed continues his work with the North Carolina Writers’ Network, he remains dedicated to encouraging others to tell their stories. Whether through fiction, nonfiction or poetry, he believes storytelling is a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and the world around us.
Ed reflects on how far he has come and how much there is still to explore. For both readers and writers, his journey serves as a reminder that the stories shaping us are often the ones closest to home.
– Kathryn Smith, editor-in-chief
ART THAT TRANSFORMS YOUR SPACE
What’s the golden rule for hanging art?
Make sure the art is 57 to 60 inches from the center to the floor. Why this range? This is considered the standard eye level and is exactly where you want the center of the art to sit. When hanging art close to furniture or mantles, the rule can be adjusted.
What is the 2/3 rule for hanging art?
There are many 2/3 rules out there, from fashion to design, and art is no exception. A piece of art should be two-thirds the width of the furniture it hangs above, such as a bed, bathtub, console table, sofa or fireplace, and it should fill no more than three-quarters of the space. You don’t have to hang art on every wall in a room. Sometimes one wall should be left without art so the eye can rest. For variety and interest, mix it up, and hang paintings on some and sculpture, pottery, fiber art, photography or glass art on others.
Can you hang art on plaster walls?
To hang art on a plaster wall, use wall anchors, screws or picture hooks designed specifically for plaster walls. I use plaster hanging hooks on plaster walls as well as drywall. Plaster hanging hooks are black nails with gold heads, and the hooks are gold. If you are hanging a larger piece of art, use two hooks spaced about 8 to 16 inches apart, depending on the width of the piece. This distributes the weight more evenly and reduces the risk of long-term damage to the wall and art, preventing the canvas or frame from warping. It also prevents movement and keeps art level.
If you purchase art or sculpture at the gallery, I will hang or place it in your home at no charge. I’m also happy to visit clients’ homes and offices to re-hang their own art in one room or the whole house! In addition, I can help if clients have just moved into a new home and have all the art they need but want it hung by a professional. I charge a small hourly fee after a free consultation. The free consultation includes a visit to the client’s home to see what needs to be hung and working with clients to plan where the art will be placed.
SINCERELY YOURS ~ KATHY O’BRIEN
Tranquility OASIS OF
In the bustling world of beauty salons, Blowouts and Bubbles stands out not only for its chic Palm Beach-inspired ambiance, but also for its founder Armine Cisneros, whose journey from a client to a business owner is an inspiring tale of resilience, passion and family-oriented values.
Armine’s story begins with a move to the Triad region in August 2022, following her family’s search for a more family-friendly lifestyle postpandemic. Relocating from Florida with her husband David and their three young children, Armine quickly realized there was a gap in the market— the lack of a blow-dry bar. This was a luxury she had grown accustomed to while balancing motherhood in Florida, where she’d find a moment of respite while her children napped, indulging in a quick blowout that left her feeling confident and rejuvenated.
“Once I had my children, I would plan around their naps and within 45 minutes, I would walk out of the blow-dry bar with my hair perfectly styled. It was a huge time-saver and a confidence booster,” Armine shares.
Determined to bring this convenience to Greensboro, Armine and David decided to open their own blow-dry bar. With a passion for making women feel beautiful and empowered,
Blowouts and Bubbles was born. But it wasn’t just about replicating the blow-dry bar concept, it was about doing it their way with a personal touch and a focus on the customer experience.
“We wanted to put our own twist on the blow-dry bar model, something that was more client-focused and allowed us to choose the best products, tools and create a space that felt like an oasis for women,” Armine explains.
Within just 11 months of concept, the first Blowouts and Bubbles location opened its doors. This was an impressive feat considering Armine was pregnant with their third child during that time. The journey wasn’t without its hurdles, but with the support of an exceptional team and a shared vision, the business quickly gained traction.
One of the things that sets Blowouts and Bubbles apart is its dedication to creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. “Our clients often tell us how happy and energetic the salon feels. The staff is always smiling, and we work hard to build a connection with everyone who walks through the door. We want them to feel like they’re coming to a place where they can unwind and be pampered,” Armine reflects.
But it’s not just the salon’s atmosphere that keeps clients coming back; it’s the top-quality service. Unlike traditional salons where a blowout might be an afterthought, Blowouts and Bubbles is dedicated exclusively to this service. “We focus solely on blowouts and our stylists are specialists in the craft. You’re guaranteed to walk out with the perfect blowout every time,” Armine says. With a team of skilled stylists and the finest products, Blowouts and Bubbles has earned a loyal following, with many women incorporating weekly blowouts into their self-care routine.
The salon’s charm also lies in its fun luxury offerings, such as complimentary bubbly with every service. With a choice of Prosecco, mimosas or wine, guests can indulge in a little sip of relaxation while being pampered. This touch of luxury is reflected in the décor as well, which channels the sunny tropical vibe of Palm Beach. A large palm wall print greets clients, adding to the feeling of warmth and brightness, much like the salon’s welcoming environment.
The couple’s commitment to offering an upscale yet accessible experience has been key to their success. “We’ve had clients suggest packages for regular blowouts and we were able to launch them based on their feedback.
“It’s about listening to our customers and making their experience better every time,” Armine explains.
Since opening, the brand has expanded to a second location in Winston-Salem and has made its mark in the Triad as the only blow-dry bar in the region. Their boutique approach, with just a few chairs in each location, allows for an intimate personalized experience, making it a popular destination for bridal parties, bachelorette gatherings and other celebrations.
In addition to their exceptional service, Blowouts and Bubbles takes pride in being an eco-friendly business. As a Green Circle salon, they ensure that all products used in the salon are recycled, turning waste into renewable energy and even bicycles. “It’s a small step, but it’s one that makes a big difference. Our clients can feel good knowing they’re supporting a business that is carbonneutral,” Armine says.
As for Armine’s work-life balance, it’s an ongoing challenge, as it is for many entrepreneurs, especially those with young children. However, she is fortunate to have the support of her husband and extended family.
“We tag-team a lot, and we’re blessed to have our mothers here to help with the kids. It’s not always easy, but being in this together makes it possible,” she shares.
Looking back, Armine is filled with gratitude for the journey that led her to where she is now. “The most rewarding part has been the response from our clients. It’s humbling to know that we’re providing a service that truly makes a difference in people’s lives. If I could go back and tell myself anything, it would be not to sweat the small stuff. People are generally kind, and things always work themselves out.”
As Blowouts and Bubbles continues to grow, Armine envisions expanding further across the region, bringing their unique blend of style, convenience and sustainability to even more women. Whether it’s a quick blowout to start the week or a full-on celebration with friends, Blowouts and Bubbles has become a staple in the Triad community, and Armine’s journey is proof that a little bit of passion and a lot of heart can make a dream a reality.
Follow them on Instagram for updates, specials and more.
– Kathryn Smith, editor-in-chief
Advanced Aesthetics
At Restoration MedSpa, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive, personalized approach to enhancing your natural beauty. With locations in Winston-Salem and Greensboro, we are committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals through expert care, innovative technology and a focus on individualized solutions.
For 2025, we are thrilled to announce several enhancements to our services that reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence. These include extended consultations, advanced skin analyses, flexible payment options and the launch of our new Restoration MedSpa App, all designed to elevate your experience with us.
While Botox® and dermal fillers remain popular treatments, we go far beyond these offerings. Our extended consultations use stateof-the-art technology to thoroughly evaluate your skin, examining factors like pigmentation, sun damage, vascular health, acne and more. This detailed analysis enables us to create customized treatment plans that address multiple concerns at once, ensuring natural and lasting results.
Our team-based approach truly sets us apart. With over 40 years of experience as a board-certified Physician Assistant, I’ve assembled an exceptional team, including a second Physician Assistant, a Nurse Practitioner, Licensed Aestheticians, a CoolSculpting Specialist, a Medical Director and a Tattoo Artist specializing in Permanent Makeup. This collaborative team effort ensures every aspect of your care is seamlessly coordinated for superior outcomes.
To make your journey even more accessible, we offer flexible payment options, including our innovative Beauty Bank. This program allows you to deposit funds over time toward your treatments, making premium care achievable for every budget. Our new app further enhances your experience, enabling you to track purchases and earn loyalty points redeemable for services or gift cards.
Excellence is not just our goal — it’s our standard! By staying at the forefront of advancements in aesthetic medicine, we ensure you receive the best possible results. Whether you’re looking to rejuvenate your skin, enhance your features or maintain a youthful appearance, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Visit us in Winston-Salem at 250 Executive Park Boulevard, Suite 105, or in Greensboro at 2005 Yanceyville Street, Suite 110. Call or text us at 336-999-8295 or visit RestorationMedSpa.com to start your journey today.
Sewn WITH INTENTION
For Velencia Haizlip, owner of Sew-U-Nique in High Point, sewing has always been as natural as breathing. “I started when I was seven years old,” she recalls. “I always had a love for fashion. Playing with paper dolls as a child, I wanted everything to fit perfectly, and that meticulousness stuck with me.” With a seamstress for a mother, Velencia was introduced to sewing early on, though her mother wasn’t particularly passionate about clothes herself.
When asked about her first sewing lessons, Velencia laughs. “My mother offered to teach me, and at first, I refused.
wouldn’t support it,” she says. “Instead, I studied accounting and spent 17 years in the corporate world. But it never felt right.”
I love taking something old or sentimental and redesigning it.
I told her I wanted my creations to look like they came from a store, not homemade. Eventually, I gave in, and she taught me. It just came naturally to me. It felt like I’d always known how to sew.”
Her natural talent became evident as she honed her skills, even assisting her home economics teacher in school. “By then, I was making my own clothes and helping others,” she explains. “It was so second nature to me that the school even considered my assistance a stipend toward my tuition.”
Despite her early passion, Velencia’s path to owning Sew-U-Nique wasn’t straightforward. “When I wanted to pursue fashion design in college, my mother
When asked what prompted her career shift, Velencia shares an unexpected turning point. “I went to update my résumé one day, and the lady helping me said, ‘Honey, I don’t know what you’re supposed to be doing, but you need to pray about it. God has something else in store for you.’ Around the same time, a friend called, saying she had a vision of me doing something with my hands and ministering to people.”
Initially, Velencia dismissed the idea. “I thought, ‘There’s no way I’m going back to sewing,’ and I couldn’t see myself ministering. But I prayed, and not long after, I realized I wanted to start a custom sewing business.”
Starting Sew-U-Nique was a testament of faith. “I worked part-time at an actuary company while setting up the business,” she says. “But soon, I couldn’t wait to get home to sew. Within six months, I was all in, researching, designing and building my clientele.”
Velencia’s specialty lies in transforming treasured items. “I love taking something old or sentimental and redesigning it. Bridal and formal wear are my main focus, but I do a bit of everything,” she explains. “It’s about creating something unique for each client.”
She’s also passionate about teaching. “I started hosting ‘sip and sew’ socials where people can create without needing prior sewing knowledge,” she says. “It’s teambuilding, creative and just plain fun.”
Community has played a significant role in her journey. “I’m not from High Point, but the community welcomed me with open arms,” she says. “They trusted me with their garments and supported my business. I’m so grateful for that.”
When asked about her creative process, Velencia emphasizes the importance of understanding her clients. “I listen to their ideas and get a feel for who they are,” she says. “It’s not just about altering a piece. Sometimes, it’s about telling them a garment isn’t right for them and helping them find what works.”
Velencia’s commitment to quality and honesty sets her apart. “If I make a mistake, I own it,” she says. “I treat every piece as if it were my own.”
Her business extends beyond the local community. “Clients from other cities and states often consult me before buying clothes,” she says. “That trust
goes beyond being an alteration shop. It’s about building relationships.”
Velencia believes everyone has a unique gift. “Not everyone can sew, just like I can’t arrange flowers,” she says with a smile. “My gift is creating pieces that fit people perfectly, both physically and emotionally.”
Looking to the future, Velencia’s eyes sparkle with excitement. “As I grow older, my true love is the creative side of my work—taking something and making it new,” she says. “That’s where my passion lies.”
Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? “Operate from your gift. Treat people how you want to be treated. And don’t be afraid to own your mistakes. It’s all part of building something meaningful.”
For Velencia, sewing isn’t just a skill—it’s her calling. “The gift was always in my hands,” she says. “It’s breathing to me.” Sew-U-Nique is more than a business; it’s a testament to her journey, creativity and unwavering belief in the power of doing what you love.
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Kathryn Smith, editor-in-chief
