MOD Society Magazine: Triad September/October 2023

EDITOR from the

Happy fall, #marvelouslyMOD readers! As the season changes and the weather finally cools, I’m anxious to enjoy all this time of year has to offer. And that goes double for this issue.

In our home feature, we take you on a tour of a one-of-a-kind abode designed by Linda Knight Carr of Greensboro’s Knight Carr & Company. Linda worked closely with the owners, who have an affinity for natural materials and Old World style, to create a stylishly comfortable design that represents their distinctive taste.

And speaking of distinctive taste, I’m a huge fan of Points of View columnist Lisa Johnson’s aesthetic. She shares some of her favorite vignettes in this issue’s designer column.

Stylish vignettes fill the showroom of High Point furniture brand South + English. We go behind the scenes of the chic furniture brand and learn what inspires its founders, Palmer Smith and David Ebbetts.

We take you on set with the cast and crew of the film, “Pie,” filmed in Greensboro. Writer and director Hugo Acevedo and actors Kathryn Alexander and Braxton Alexander give us a preview of the horror short.

Chef and cookbook author Mary James Lawrence finds her inspiration in one of the most scenic, romantic locales on Earth — France. The Francophile shares how French culture and cuisine have shaped her career and enriched her life.

One of my favorite summer reads this year was The Only Survivors, a beachy thriller set in the Outer Banks and written by North Carolina author Megan Miranda. I had the pleasure of speaking to her about not only that book, but also some of her other novels, including The Last House Guest, which was named a Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick.

I also sat down with our Clothes Whisperer and DressCode Style owner, Maribeth Geraci. A fellow fashion nerd, Maribeth loves all things style, and she shared how her upbringing made a career in fashion all but an inevitability. And her column this issue gives us a preview of the trends shaping fall/winter style. Want more fashion? We’ve got you with an inside look at Kathleen Pickering’s bridal boutique, Simply Stunning by Divas. Kathleen has dressed scores of women for their big days, and she tells us what separates an average dress from a gown worth saying “yes” to.

Working on this issue definitely got me in the mood for fall, and I hope it does the same for you. Until next time!

Jennifer Bringle, editor-in-chief

CONTENTS

EDITOR’S LETTER

A new season awaits, and our editor is ready to celebrate it in this issue.

NATURAL SELECTIONS

Designer Linda Knight Carr of Knight Carr & Company collaborated with a couple with a propensity for natural materials and Old World charm. She tells us how she incorporated that aesthetic into a home design that captures their style while feeling fresh and timeless.

PERFECT MATCH

Though they seem totally opposite, boisterous Southerner Palmer Smith and buttoned-up Brit David Ebbetts make a stylish team. They share how their different but complementary design styles work to make their High Point-based furniture brand South + English shine.

32 37 4 0

ALL IN THE DETAILS

Points of View columnist and designer Lisa Johnson knows details make a space. With that in mind, she shares some of her favorite vignettes from homes she’s designed.

CLOTHES WHISPERER

Unsure what to wear this fall? Stylist and DressCode Style owner Maribeth Geraci has you guide to the biggest trends of the season.

A PASSION FOR FASHION

Clothes Whisperer Maribeth Geraci describes herself as a “fashion nerd.” We learn how her childhood inspired her love of style and how she helps women look and feel their best with “fewer, finer things.”

CONTENTS

A SENSE OF JOIE DE VIVRE

Francophile Mary James Lawrence has enjoyed a long career in the culinary world as a cookbook author, cooking show host and culinary tour leader. She explains how the culture and cuisine of France inspire her — both personally and professionally.

STUNNING STYLE

Kathleen Pickering understands what makes the perfect bridal gown. And she has helped countless brides and their loved ones find the right dresses for their big days. She shares how her shop, Simply Stunning by Divas, helps make that happen.

BUILDING SUSPENSE

North Carolina author Megan Miranda knows how to thrill readers with her sharp, suspenseful mysteries. Her latest book takes audiences to the Outer Banks for a reunion of friends where nothing is as it seems.

EASY AS PIE

Filmmaker Hugo Acevedo takes on the stereotypical 1950s housewife in the short film, “Pie.” He and mother-son cast members Kathryn Alexander and Braxton Alexander take us behind the scenes of the production in Greensboro’s THS Creative studios.

SECRETS TO A FRESH FACE

English Black of A Curated Aesthetic answers your skincare questions.

NATURAL SELECTION

When appointing a home, an interior designer’s task is two-fold: Offer the client expertise and guidance, and adhere to their personal style and preferences. When a designer strikes that balance, the results can be extraordinary.

Such was the case in the primary residence of Brenda and Ron Gibson. When the couple embarked on building their home, they knew finding the right designer would be a critical part of the process. Brenda says they asked around at some of their favorite antique shops for suggestions, and one name kept coming up: Linda Knight Carr of Knight Carr & Company in Greensboro.

“Every single one of them said, ‘You have to get Linda Carr out of Greensboro — she’s the best,’” Brenda says.

After Linda connected with Brenda and Ron, she found the couple’s intention for this project leaned in the direction of classic traditional, with a strong connection to nature and natural materials.

“Blending their classic design inclination with Ron’s instinct for construction and his passion for natural elements created the opportunity for an environment layered with natural stone and rich wood elements,” Linda says.

Some of those wood elements set a dramatic scene in the home’s living room, where reclaimed wood beams crisscross the ceiling, giving the space a rustic-yet-refined feel. A substantial limestone mantle serves as a focal point on a wood-paneled wall, flanked on either side by custom painted cabinetry that keeps the television tucked away when not in use and provides storage for books and other ephemera. Above the fireplace, a heavily textured abstract painting by artist Lynn Boggess depicts a woodland scene consistent with the home’s natural vibe. Lynn specializes in stylized paintings of landscapes from the Appalachian region.

Linda was able to incorporate some of the couple’s existing furniture in this space, supplementing it with new additions. Because the room is open and connected to the breakfast nook and kitchen, she wanted to provide some delineation for the sitting area. The sofa and chairs are arranged facing the fireplace, and a substantial antique wood desk with ornate carvings serves as a boundary point between the sitting area and the breakfast nook. The homeowners use the table as a display for books, objets d’art, and seasonal florals and greenery.

Another architectural feature sets the kitchen and breakfast nook apart from the rest of the space. The wooden beams stretch across from the living room to a scallop-curved brick ceiling that brings drama to what otherwise could be a utilitarian space.

A massive limestone range hood hangs beneath the bricks, sitting atop a wooden base secured with ornate iron brackets handcrafted by local artisan Jim Galluci. A red-and-white fleur de lis crest adds a touch of European flair to the range hood’s creamy white face.

Hand-painted tile extends the Old World look onto the backsplash underneath the hood range. And two antique iron chandeliers hang on either side of the stove, casting a warm glow on the kitchen below.

“I went to Atlanta with Linda to look at those lighting fixtures and some furniture,” Brenda says. “We just built a great relationship where she understood our taste and could bring recommendations to us or take us to things she knew we’d like.”

Situated between the kitchen and the living room, an island and breakfast area offer a place for casual dining adjacent to the sitting area. The wooden island was custom built with a curved cutout in front to accommodate a similarly curved custom banquette that provides seating for diners. And the table adds another touch of European flair to the scene.

“We found an antique French pastry table base, which once had a square marble top for baking,” Linda says. “We maintained the original finish of the base and added a custom oval wood top for the breakfast area.”

Ron and Brenda enjoy entertaining. Quietly tucked just off the kitchen and sitting room is a U-shaped, marble-topped bar serves as a gathering point for the couple and their guests. The space features a brick floor and plenty of dark wood cabinetry and accents. And an oval, antique wooden crest hanging on the wall adds to the rich, European feel.

“Even though it has an Old World cast about it, to me it still feels very up to date,” Linda says.

Adjacent to the bar, step down onto a brick floor to a separate, temperaturecontrolled room houses the couple’s wine collection. It also features an ornate antique window that overlooks the kitchen and breakfast area.

“The wall was specially cut to fit that window, and it has little handles that were once used to open it,” Linda says. “It’s a really special detail.”

For less-casual entertaining, the formal dining room offers an elegant setting for the couple’s family and friends.

“The homeowners enjoy entertaining and are frequently opening their home for close groups of friends, as well as larger gatherings,” Linda says. “So, they requested a round dining table and plush seating. We added a table with a diameter of six feet, established seating for 10 comfortably and also a wonderful platform for cocktail party entertaining.”

The room’s walls are covered in hand-blocked wallpaper that gives the space a soft, timeless feel. Hand-wrought iron light fixtures, including the statement chandelier and sconces flanking an antique mirror, carry the natural materials theme from the rest of the home into the formal dining space. And antique furnishings capture the home’s sophisticated European flair.

“Consistent with their traditional, Old World style, the antique French sideboard anchors the space and offers lovely juxtaposition to the large room-size window flooding the space with light,” Linda says. Another antique detail adds light in the entryway. The chandelier once held candles, but has been wired for electricity and now casts a soft glow on the stairs leading to the home’s second floor. An antique cabinet anchors the space, topped with vintage lamps and an ornate mirror.

Light plays a major role in the home’s primary bedroom, as well. Floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors bathe the space in natural light, complementing the room’s softer color scheme. A sitting area outfitted with a plush armchair and small sofa next to the windows provides the ideal spot for reading or simply relaxing.

Those French doors lead outside to a covered patio that again reflects the couple’s love of natural materials, with wood beams crisscrossing the ceiling and a massive stone fireplace serving as the room’s centerpiece. Cushioned deep chairs sit in a circular setting before the hearth, beckoning the couple and their guests to linger, even during the colder months.

Jennifer Bringle Editor@yourMODsociety.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Maribeth Geraci

Lisa Johnson COPY EDITOR

Weaver-Spencer

Aura Marzouk Lake

“The covered outdoor space was designed to be cozy and comfortable,” Linda says. “It’s a space they can enjoy well into the colder months with the fireplace.”

Brenda and Ron loved Linda’s work so much, they tapped her to design their beach house and their mountain home, which they’ve recently started building.

“Linda is so professional, and she’s a perfectionist, so if there’s anything you’re not happy with, she will fix it,” Brenda says.

“It was always so great working with her, and we built a wonderful relationship. I think it says a lot when you’re working with someone on your third home.”

Linda says she feels that same sense of connection with Brenda and Ron. And their home proved to be a treat for her to design, as it allowed her to have fun incorporating a mix of old and new to create a distinctive look that she believes will feel fresh and comfortable for years to come.

“In today’s design environment we are all inundated with what’s ‘in.’ It can be difficult for clients to decide what they actually want, what resonates with them and what they want to represent to those who enter their environment,” Linda says.

“A home like the Gibsons’ is special because it represents them and says warmly, ‘Come in, we’re happy you’re here.’ As a designer, that feels like success.”

– Jennifer Bringle, editor-in-chief

Regarding the Home...

DESIGN: Knight Carr & Company

ARCHITECT: Carter Skinner Designs

BUILDER: Richard Tillis with Tall House Building Company

Featured Home Photos

Cover Living Room

Pages 16-17 Living Room

Page 18-19 Formal Dining Room

Page 20 Kitchen

Pages 21 Foyer

Page 22-23 Bedroom

Page 24 Bar (top)

Wine Room (bottom)

Page 25 Covered Patio

Perfect MATCH

At first blush, Palmer Smith and David Ebbetts couldn’t seem more different. The former an outgoing Southerner, artistic and creative, with a maximalist aesthetic and a penchant for event planning. The latter a buttoned-up Brit who favors clean-lined design and excels at brand strategy and crunching numbers.

But when Palmer and David come together, it’s as if two halves of a whole meet, each complementing the other’s strengths. That synergy not only makes their personal partnership work, but it also makes them ideal creative and business partners. And four years ago, the two furniture and design industry veterans decided to capitalize on their complementary strengths by founding South + English.

The furniture brand, which is based in High Point and operates a showroom on Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, specializes in midto high-end furnishings and décor. Palmer and David design the collections, many of which are manufactured in North Carolina.

“We design together, and the magic is that we design together extremely well,” Palmer says. “That has been the recipe for success for several businesses even before this one.”

David and Palmer approach the design process collaboratively, brainstorming new pieces together and drawing inspiration from a variety of sources. Both men have a reverence for the past and incorporate classic styles and motifs.

“When it comes to South + English, we start with an antique — maybe something vintage or midcentury — and then tweak it,” Palmer says. “It could’ve been a leg or something we saw in Europe, such as a railing on a balcony. We take a million pictures when we travel, and we have huge folders and files of inspiration.”

Along with furniture, South + English also carries a variety of art pieces created by Palmer and David. During the 1990s, Palmer owned a gallery in Atlanta that sold art and midcentury furniture. He’d always painted, but found it difficult to sell his personal art in the gallery because he didn’t want people to buy his pieces simply because he owned the gallery. So, he began painting under his middle name, Linwood. His colorful works are sold in eight galleries around the country, as well as in the South + English showroom. “I’m an abstract artist, and there’s one figurative element I include in every painting,” Palmer says. “I do a little boat that represents your body and soul, and I also do sculptures of the boat that represent your body and soul on this journey through life.”

Just like his role in the business, David takes a more structured approach to his art. But while his pieces tend to be more pattern-based than Palmer’s abstracts, David says his art provides an outlet to not only express himself creatively, but also to escape the stresses of the world.

“I do a lot of sculptural art where I use woods and plasters,” he says. “I have different themes in my mind, and I’m working out the patterns of how I live my own life — I get really in my head. So it’s also like therapy, and it’s an area where you can totally lose yourself.”

“We design together, and the magic is that we design together extremely well,” Palmer says.

After establishing their business and making their home in High Point, Palmer and David have been major proponents of the city and its resurgence. One way they show that support is by being charter members of High Point by Design, a group of furniture industry stakeholders who convened during the pandemic with the idea of making the city a design destination yearround, rather than just during the semi-annual High Point Market.

“The idea is for the city to be open more of the time to designers than the two weeks of the year of market,” Palmer says. “Right now, we’re doing first Wednesday of every month as Design Day when showrooms are open, and I’d like to see that grow to be more often. We’ve toyed with the idea of having our showroom and offices open every day and essentially becoming a retail store.”

David and Palmer point to not only their fellow High Point by Design member showrooms, but also downtown development such as Congdon Yards, the High Point Rockers stadium and the Stock and Grain Assembly Food Hall as evidence of the work being done to re-energize the city center. And for transplants

such as David, who grew up in London, the change has energized them not only as business owners, but also as people who call High Point home.

“For people living and working here, there is a growing sense of community and re-establishing and renovating and connectivity with different areas of the community, more diverse areas of High Point,” David says. “Having grown up in a city, High Point is becoming more like that, and that’s interesting.”

And 20 years after they first met on a blind date during market, Palmer and David say they feel fortunate to have forged such a strong community in High Point and such a loyal following among the designers and buyers who visit the South + English showroom.

“High Point has been very good to us,” Palmer says. “There are so many choices at market, and whatever it was about our environment and our pieces that spoke to those who come into our showroom, we’re so thankful for that and hope you come back again.”

– Jennifer Bringle, editor-in-chief

IT’S ALL IN THE MIX

No need to align yourself with a particular style — consider antique and contemporary the perfect mix as shown in the lovely home of Michele and Greg Shutter.

all

WHEN SPIKES ARE RIGHT

Kass O’Brien brings three-dimensional texture and movement to life. Visit Shop on Blair for her unique pieces.

LUCKY AND RARE

These are two words that are exciting in design. Rarely seen Karl Springer Kyoto Box, a stunning and

MURANO MADE

Means quality in design and details that mesmerize the eye and accessorize in a unique and inimitable way

Sculpture is an art form that makes you think and feel. It challenges you in unexpected ways.

DETAILS IN THE

With a discerning eye and a knack for stylishly pairing the old with the new, Lisa Johnson understands the power of details to transform a space.

ROMAN ANTIQUITY MEETS GREEK MYTHOOLOGY

A magnificent antique dolphin console with splayed tails and scalloped shells supports a stunning marble top. The shells represent Venus and the dolphins represent Neptune.

PIONEER A STYLE OF YOUR OWN

DETAILS

Here modern influences with touches of lucite are paired with just the right fabric border and applied to my favorite chair, the Klismos. The design was developed in Ancient Greece during the 5th

“DETAILS MATTER:

Whether they are a small detail that makes a big difference or the small details that add up to make a really great experience.”

~ Charles Eames

“Nu Aux Oranges, colored lithography by Henri Matisse,” abandons the norm by allowing

DESIGN IS ART. ART IS DESIGN.

What is undeniably true is this Lucia Lopez work of art adds beauty and meaning to the world.

BRING STYLE & FUNCTION

This quartetto of stacking tables can be stylishly used while providing a space-saving solution. Multi-function at its best.

CREATE TENSION IN A ROOM

This unique malachite chair not only has movement, but it also adds visual interest.

MAKING A STATEMENT

This monumental work of art captures interest and attention in a most compelling way. Be brave and chose your statement!

PERFECTLY BALANCED

The distribution of elements in design is important and challenging, but not impossible! This vignette achieves balance beautifully, allowing one-of-a-kind art, a lamp and accessories to balance with purpose.

OPTIMISM, ENERGY, JOY & HAPPINESS

Yellow brings it like no other color, wrapped around fine craftsmanship in the Laura chair by O. Henry House. Shopping local is always the best choice!

CLOTHES WHISPERER

Art, technology and fashion were on display when I had the opportunity to see the Fashion Fictions art exhibit this summer in Vancouver, Canada. The show displayed examples past and present of how transformative work in fashion is produced in the spaces between fact and fiction. The show included pieces from Balenciaga to Nike, as well as computers showing how you can hire a designer to make you a well-dressed custom avatar.

Fashion speaks to the times we live in and continues to be a hot ticket for museums. This summer alone there were shows dedicated to Karl Lagerfield in New York City, Yves Saint Laurent in France, Valentino in Qatar and Christian Dior in Tokyo, just to name a few. These shows help educate us about where we have been and where we are going, not just from the actual garments, but also from what’s happening culturally in the world. I enjoy these shows because I look for how these designers and styles from the past influence what we are wearing today — and they often do.

As I look at fall arrivals for 2023, I see parts and pieces of past decades. The world is still living in a lot of drama, so this fall, order, clean lines and structure are key trends. Think back to Yves Saint Laurent’s perfect suiting, but this time using high-tech, bestin-class fabrics that move with you, and still stand up to provide a crisp appearance.

Wardrobe staples are also trending — think a good blazer or an updated black pant. Key words with many designers were wearability and timelessness. This is spot on for me, because clothes with a shelf life with just the right modern details is where my fashion aesthetic lies.

As classic as fall 2023 looks, there’s still room for whimsy, with metallics, lame and the sequin trend continuing from day into evening. Dresses and skirts will be widely available, and the wide leg pant is here to stay. Colors will be in the pink to purple range, the sage to olive range, and of course, a blue palette is always in the mix.

Fashion is fun to me, and I always take a deeper dive into its meaning as the trends emerge each season. I’ve been in the business long enough to see things circle back and to see amazing strides in fabric technology.

While I enjoyed the Fashion Fictions exhibit it really made me think about what we will be wearing in the future — what I learned was that I do not want a designer avatar. I’d rather dress for the real world.

– Maribeth Geraci, DressCode Style www.dresscodestyle.us @dresscode @mb

PASSION

FASHION PASSION A FOR

A career in the fashion industry always seemed to be in the stars for Maribeth Geraci. A self-described “fashion nerd,” Maribeth grew up with a mother who sewed and had a strong appreciation for fabric and fashion. Her uncle was a fashion designer in New York, and her aunt owned a clothing boutique for three decades.

“I spent a lot of time in fabric stores. I was always around my mom telling me, ‘This feels like this because it’s made of this,’” Maribeth says. “My mother loved to sew, and she loved beautiful fabric. So, I was around it from a very young age, and I never fell out of love with it.”

Maribeth now owns DressCode Style, a high-end fashion boutique with locations in Greensboro and Raleigh, as well as True U Consulting, a personal brand development company. With a degree in interpersonal communication and fashion, she has combined those skills to help hundreds of women from stay-at-home moms to Fortune 500 executives make good choices to look their best.

Maribeth works with styling clients as well as customers in her stores to find the right pieces that fit their style, body and occasion. And her work goes beyond simply picking out clothes for clients. She also teaches them what to look for in fabrics, cuts and styles so they feel more confident about finding pieces that work for them.

“I never leave somebody without specific action steps, and I think that helps them overcome a lot,” she says.

“I’ll say, ‘Based on your body build, this is the pant you need to buy. This is where you buy it. And this is the price point of it. It’s going to fit you. And then I get emails all the time saying, ‘You were right.’”

The mantra of “fewer, finer things” drives Maribeth’s work both at DressCode Style and with her consulting clients. The clothing and accessories she carries in her stores and suggests for her clients may cost more than something you might find at the mall, but Maribeth says these “finer” things are built to last, both in construction and style.

“I believe that your clothes should have a shelf life,” she says. “People come into the store, and they’ll have something on and say, ‘Maribeth, do you remember this? And can you believe I still love wearing it?’ I love to hear that — it brings me so much joy.”

Maribeth says “fewer, finer things” also speaks to her dedication to sustainability and keeping garments out of landfills.

“I’ve been very big on sustainability, even before it got popular,” she says. “We’ve always done recycle and reuse days in September, and we encourage people to repurpose, recycle and reuse.”

Maribeth and her manager help customers adjust pieces they already own and then take them to alterations so they can continue to wear them. She says these projects are especially fun because they allow her to indulge her love of fabric and garment construction.

“People will bring stuff in to us that’s older in their closet, and we get so excited because we get to play,” she says. “We’ll say, ‘We could re-do that neckline, or we could make the sleeve do this — we help them redesign it, and it’s really fun.”

That ethos also informs how Maribeth chooses brands for her stores and consulting business. She buys mainly European designers and tries to source from companies known for their sustainable and equitable practices.

“I’ve always been very conscious about where my products are made,” she says. “I may not know every single thing happening in a country, but I always ask the questions. It matters to me.”

But ultimately, the thing that matters most to Maribeth is that moment when clients put on outfits, look in the mirror and light up.

“I’m all about the customer shining and making them feel empowered — I love that,” she says. “When I see them light up in the mirror, you can immediately tell a woman has found a home-run outfit because she stands taller and has a special smile, and I think, ‘We’ve nailed it.’”

– Jennifer Bringle, editor-in-chief

A SENSE OF Joie de Vivre

Of all the words that could describe Mary James Lawrence, perhaps Francophile fits her best. The cookbook writer, tour guide, and former cooking segment host fell deeply in love with all things France — the language, the cuisine, the culture, the countryside — and that romance has only deepened over the years.

“When you start out in the culinary world, that’s where the basics are — in French cuisine,” she says. “There are so many opportunities with French cuisine to do something different because you have the basics. I fell in love with the food first, and then I just wanted to explore everything about France.”

During the 1980s, Mary James was on the committee of a cookbook for the Junior League of Greensboro called Out of Our League. Shortly after its release, Mary James joined legendary WFMY News 2 anchor Lee Kinard to represent the Junior League on a cooking segment on “The Good Morning Show.” That appearance led to a regular segment on the show.

“I did it live for a lot of years every morning,” she says. “And then in the ‘90s I would come in and do taped segments.”

Mary James’ love of cooking also led her to open a shop in 1983 called Cook’s Corner on State Street in Greensboro, where she also held regular cooking

classes. That store led to a larger shop called Roosters, which was located nearby on Lawndale Drive.

“That was a huge store,” she says. “It had a cooking school, it had a garden, it had catering, it had a deli, it had fine china, it had tablecloths, it had pots and pans, knives... I mean, whatever you wanted in the culinary world, we had it.”

Mary James operated the store until 2007, the year she published her own cookbook, Mary James Dishes It Out. That same year, a new opportunity proved too good to pass up. Years earlier while working on “The Good Morning Show,” Lee called her into his office to offer the chance to film one of his travel log segments to France.

“He said, ‘Of all the places I’ve been, Provence is my favorite place ever, and it’s the only place I would really like to go back to,’” she says. “And then he said, ‘I want you to go and just do food.’ And I said, ‘Well, I can take that assignment any day.’”

During that trip, Mary James met Xavier Hoffalt, a French chef and restaurateur who had served as Lee’s guide on his previous visit. The two instantly bonded over their shared love of French cuisine and the country’s food-focused culture. And eventually, they realized that they were the perfect people to lead tours of France for Americans and other visitors.

For several decades, Mary James and Xavier have hosted tours of Provence and the French countryside. Eschewing big cities and other tourist-heavy areas, the tours give guests an authentic look at French life and afford them the chance to experience truly local cuisine by shopping for ingredients at small markets.

“I love the markets — I adore dealing with individual vendors and for everything,” Mary James says. “There’s much more accountability for the food, from something that has a label to the person you’re buying it from. You go to the butcher shop, and you know where the cow was raised, where the pig was, all of that. It’s better food — fresher and more trustworthy.”

Tour guests not only shop the markets, but also get a chance to enjoy the rich flavors of French cooking. One of the most important philosophies of that cooking style that Mary James practices every day in her own home is the idea of keeping essential ingredients on hand, cooking with what you have and avoiding food waste.

“The thing I like best to do is to use what I have, to look at the refrigerator and say, ‘Okay, I’m not going to

the store. What can I do?’” she says. “I’ll have onions, and I’ll make an onion marmalade to go on goat cheese for a canape when people visit unexpectedly. I don’t want onions to go bad, and marmalade will last a long time. I don’t like to see food go to waste.”

While Mary James and Xavier have taken a hiatus from their tours, she still spends a large portion of the year in France. And when she’s home, whether she’s cooking for herself, preparing food for a dinner party or hosting a small cooking class for friends, the spirit and the principles of French culture and cooking permeate everything she does.

“You learn the recipe, you learn a technique, and that’s what the French do so well, then you can take it and do anything,” she says. “And that’s what French cuisine did for me — gave me the basics, and then I was off and running.”

– Jennifer Bringle, editor-in-chief

STUNNING Style N t

Simply Stunning is a modern and elegant boutique — a space of luxury, sophistication and unparalleled customer service. Owner Kathleen Pickering’s love for all things beautiful is apparent as soon as you walk through the boutique’s door. Along with the spectacular selection of exclusive designers, Simply Stunning offers customers an experience where no detail is overlooked.

Kathleen, the visionary and lead stylist behind the brand, truly embodies the phrase “a passion for fashion.” She credits all of her success to the most important women in her life: Her grandmothers, her mother and her older sister. Her obsession with Old Hollywood and beautiful women dressed in beautiful clothing began at an early age when she spent summers with her grandmothers, both master seamstresses. Her days were filled with designing and sewing alongside them while gaining inspiration from classic movies.

Kathleen’s mother, Marlene, is her greatest inspiration and always encouraged her to stay true to herself. So with her mother’s support, Kathleen opened her first boutique. After decades of success in ready-to-wear as Divas and listening to her customers’ needs, she realized there was a void in her local market for a bridal and special occasion salon. In 2018, Divas rebranded to truly encompass everything Kathleen’s clientele wanted to be… Simply Stunning.

One of Simply Stunning’s niches is redesigning heirloom pieces and customizing new gowns. Kathleen is not an “off the rack” girl, and her love for creating runs deep. That’s why it was extra-special when Beth Bryan Breece approached Kathleen to share her daughter Haleigh’s wishes for her New Year’s Eve nuptials. It was important to Haleigh to carry on the tradition of wearing the gown her mother, Beth, wore in 1989, and her grandmother, Joan Denson Bryan, wore in 1958.

As with every appointment, Simply Stunning’s team utilized the “3 C’s” method to make all of their wedding dreams come true: Collaborate, create and celebrate.

Kathleen, Haleigh, Beth and Simply Stunning’s expert seamstresses collaborated to create gowns that reflected their personal style while staying true to Haleigh’s wedding vision. Collaborating to redesign a wedding gown must be a harmonious fusion of creativity and expertise. Through open communication and a shared commitment to ensuring that every stitch reflected Haleigh’s personality and modern but classic style, the team decided to also create a custom reception dress.

After these successful collaborations, Beth trusted Simply Stunning to create something just for her. Choosing the perfect mother-of-the-bride dress is more than just selecting a beautiful gown. Kathleen always looks at the entire wedding as one picture, allowing her to suggest the perfect combination of silhouette, color and fabric.

Over multiple visits and development, the dresses transformed from ideas to a beautiful reality, and the finishing touches came together into true Simply Stunning creations. Kathleen and her team love customization and redesigning because allows the client to be involved in the more intricate details.

Celebrating is the last but certainly not least of the “3 C’s.” At the completion of Haleigh and Beth’s dress creations, bubbly was poured and glasses clinked to celebrate the final stitches and touches to each of the gowns. After helping the bride change from her heirloom ceremony gown to her modern reception gown, Kathleen says the icing on the cake was hearing the groom, Dillon, say to Haleigh, “You look like a present!”

Creating lifelong relationships with customers is something Kathleen and the team at Simply Stunning cherishes, and those connections have always been a huge part of the business. From designers to clientele, Kathleen and her team are passionate about creating long-lasting relationships and ensuring everyone feels like family.

“To be able to wear a third-generation wedding gown is so special in itself, but to connect with someone local to the Triad who shared my vision and appreciation for the gown’s history was a true blessing and made my wedding dreams come true!”

HALEIGH BREECE SEXTON

SUSPENSE BUILDING

NATIONAL BESTSELLING AUTHOR

MEGAN MIRANDA

photographer: ashley elston

Though her latest book tells the story of a group of friends bound together by tragedy, Megan Miranda says the idea for The Only Survivors actually came to her while on a family getaway to Puerto Rico.

During the trip, Megan’s husband and kids found a cell phone that washed up on the beach and brought it back to the condo where they were staying.

“They were very excited, and I immediately was like, ‘This is a terrible idea, this is obviously evidence of a crime,’” she says with a laugh. “And they looked at me like, ‘Why do you think that way?’ And I was like, ‘Why do you not think that way?’ I think I just read and have written too many thrillers, so I’m always imagining.” While the phone her family found had a happy ending — they were able to return it to its owners, who’d lost it on vacation — that moment stuck with Megan and became a pivotal plot point in The Only Survivors

The book, which debuted earlier this year, tells the story of a group of friends who survived an accident while on a school trip a decade prior. The group makes a pact to reunite every year on the anniversary of the crash, to ensure they’re safe and not alone, and the book finds them gathering at a beach house on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Shortly after arriving, Cassidy, the main character and narrator, finds a cracked phone lying on the beach that leads to some startling discoveries about her fellow survivors.

“I wanted to make the story about people who didn’t necessarily want to be together,” Megan says. “The thing I was most interested in was the way that these seven people could have the same traumatic event happen to them, and yet they all have completely different responses or reactions to this event.”

Megan, who lives in Davidson, North Carolina, says that while the Outer Banks is a beautiful vacation destination, it also has elements that make it the perfect backdrop for a thriller.

“Settings are so important to a story, and I want them to feel like a character,” she says. “The Outer Banks is very isolated, which is what they really need at the start of the book — they want to get away. And yet when things start going wrong, all those things that are beautiful and a positive for them turn against them instead. Now, they’re isolated in a way that they can’t escape.”

Megan has set other novels in North Carolina, as well, including her 2022 book, The Last to Vanish. And though not set in North Carolina, her 2019 novel, The Last House Guest, was selected by actress Reese Witherspoon for her Reese’s Book Club.

While Megan has experienced major success as a mystery author, her journey to becoming a writer took a more meandering path. She graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and began her career in science, working in biotech and as a teacher. But she’d long been a voracious reader and enjoyed writing as a hobby. After she had children, she says she picked writing back up, and it grew into more than just a pastime.

Megan published her first novel, Soulprint, in 2015. That book, along with several others that followed, were young adult novels featuring teenage protagonists. In 2016, she also began writing thrillers for adult readers.

“I had been writing suspense stories about huge things that happened to these people when they’re in their teen years, and I would reach the end and think, ‘They’ve made it through — how are they doing years later?

Has this impacted the type of people they’ve become?’”

Megan says. “That’s what gave rise to my first adult book, All The Missing Girls.”

That connection between the past and the present permeates many of the stories Megan writes, including her latest book, The Only Survivors.

“The way the past impacts the present is a huge theme in a lot of my books,” she says. “How does the past impact who these people then become, and can you ever escape the past? Does it come back to haunt you?”

Megan will share more insights into the stories behind her books at the upcoming Bookmarks Festival of Books on September 23 in downtown Winston-Salem. She says that meeting readers and hearing their takes on her books brings her joy and inspires her to continue writing.

“It has been really satisfying that a story that has been very close to my heart or that I have cared about deeply has reached readers and that they’ve seen something in it, as well,” she says. “It has really been a dream.”

– Jennifer Bringle, editor-in-chief

pieeasy as

Hugo Acevedo has always loved film. Born in Texas to a Mexican-American family, he taught himself to speak English by watching movies and shows on television. And even as a child, he knew he wanted to act and work in films.

This year, he realized that dream in a major way, writing and co-directing his first film, the short, “Pie,” which was filmed in Greensboro. A horror film set in the 1950s, “Pie” takes the artificiality and cliches of that era and turns them on their head to tell the gothic tale of two serial killers.

“I’ve always been drawn to films that depict the 1950s era, but sometimes it can be a little bit off — it feels so fabricated and manufactured,” he says. “Then, I thought that could very well be a type of horror movie — the image of a 1950s housewife covered in blood.”

As Hugo wrote the script, he had one person in mind for the lead role of Dot: His friend and Greensboro-based actor Kathryn Alexander. Hugo met Kathryn years ago in acting classes where they struck an instant friendship.

“We both started acting later in life,” Kathryn says. “We’ve been scene partners as well as writing partners. One day he started talking about this idea and wrote it, and it was absolutely beautiful. I am thrilled with it, and so happy I got to play this role.”

In the film, Dot lives alone after losing her husband, and she maintains a fantasy of perfection that allows her to avoid the reality of her situation. But, that facade also makes her seem unreal on the surface.

“When you look deeper, she’s just like all of us — she’s simply trying to survive,” Kathryn says. “She’s just trying to get through each day and cope with her grief and loss in the best way that she knows how.”

Playing the role was even more special for Kathryn because she got to act alongside her teenage son, Braxton Alexander. Mother and son had appeared together only a few times in the past, most notably in an episode of the reboot of “MacGyver.”

“It was absolutely magical,” Kathryn says of working together on “Pie.” “He’s very talented, and I respect him as an actor. And being able to connect with him and use our

relationship and our emotional connection in this film was really special to me.”

Braxton, who in addition to his role in “MacGyver” also has appeared in the recent horror film “The Black Phone” along with television series including “The Summer I Turned Pretty” and “The Righteous Gemstones,” plays Ted in “Pie.” His character and his mother’s character have a strong connection in the film, something that allowed them to draw on their personal relationship to bring depth to the scenes.

“The best thing that you could ever ask for between actors is chemistry,” he says. “It’s a blessing to get to work with talented actors who you can talk to every single day. You don’t have to get past that awkward stage when you’re meeting new people on set — sometimes it takes a little bit of time to get used to them. But, we were able to go right into it and be ready.”

Hugo says the relationships between the actors in the cast, which also includes Winston-Salem actress Emi Curia, along with the crew at THS Creative in Greensboro where the film was shot, helped add a quality of emotion to “Pie” that he hopes will resonate with audiences.

“Watching film after film and dissecting them, you realize what makes them good,” he says. “You could watch a scene in one film and forget about it, but see another similar scene and always remember it. You care about what’s happening because the actors care about what’s happening — it’s a feeling that may not always be obvious.”

Hugo hopes that feeling is obvious to audiences who watch the film after it debuts on the festival circuit. Though “Pie” is a short, it was written and shot as a proof-of-concept, meaning Hugo and his team would like to gain backing to produce it as a full-length feature. Film production companies and distributors often attend festivals to find proof-of-concept shorts they’d like to produce.

“The way it’s told, the way I wrote it, I left clues that there’s more to the story,” he says. “So, I would love for it to be a feature film.”

But whether that happens or not, Hugo says he hopes the universal message of connection and looking beyond the surface in “Pie” reaches audiences and leaves them with something they won’t forget.

“It’s a very special story, and I think it’s something that people will connect with despite it having a 1950s look with blood and murder,” he says. “There’s something underneath, and I’m excited to share that.”

– Jennifer Bringle, editor-in-chief

applies. There are far more buyers than homes

The pandemic has created a pent-up demand, seen all the makings for an inventory shortage

TRIAD’S FINEST TIPS

TRIAD’S FINEST

Everyone is asking, “If we can now sell our house for the highest value it’s ever been, would we even be able to find a new home that fits our current wishes? And if we do, will it be worth paying what might be top dollar for it?”

I understand how skyrocketing prices can make homeowners both excited and nervous at the Industry experts are predicting that appreciation, probably slowing in rate over time, will continue next five years and eventually settle at historical So, for those waiting for prices to go down, predicted to happen anytime soon.

When you are considering renovations or building a home in the high-end market, you should be extremely thoughtful when choosing the details and take into account your home’s resale value. I always think about resale value when I do anything to my personal homes. Crafting a timeless home that exudes luxury and maximizes value involves meticulous attention to detail, architectural finesse and the use of fine materials. Customization is the key to creating a luxurious ambiance that resonates with people.

Currently, we are in the midst of an ongoing housing shortage. I love discussing all the many reasons for this, but to cut to the chase, with shortages in inventory, prices will not decline. The classic law of supply and demand applies. There are far more buyers than homes available. The pandemic has created a pent-up demand, and we have seen all the makings for an inventory shortage over many years. I understand how skyrocketing prices can make homeowners both excited and nervous at the same time. Industry experts are predicting that appreciation, while probably slowing in rate over time, will continue for the next five years and eventually settle at historical norms. So, for those waiting for prices to go down, this is not predicted to happen anytime soon.

As a seller in this market, you have the upper can use multiple methods for purchasing your such as delayed closing, sell and rent back after many more creative options.

Architectural features can play a pivotal role. Grand entrances with heavy doors with beveled glass, moldings on the walls or ceiling, and custom staircase railings make a lasting impression. Floor-to-ceiling windows embrace natural light and often provide breathtaking views. Bespoke details elevate a high-end home’s allure. Quality hardware and fixtures, and custom woodwork, from coffered ceilings to intricate cabinetry, demonstrate craftsmanship and selectiveness. Smart home systems seamlessly integrate technology for convenience and sophistication. Wine cellars, private theaters and spa-like bathrooms are also showstoppers.

As a seller in this market, you have the upper hand and can use multiple methods for purchasing your next home, such as delayed closing, sell and rent back after closing, and many more creative options.

Materials can speak volumes about luxury. Hand-selected marble or quartzite countertops in kitchens and bathrooms are a great choice in classic designs. Wide plank hardwood flooring adds warmth and a leveled-up feel. I wouldn’t recommend more than two to three different types of flooring outside of the bathroom flooring. High-performance appliances are also noticed by the discerning eye. Landscaping and outdoor features shouldn’t be overlooked. Pools, outdoor kitchens, fire pits and well-manicured gardens extend the living space while emphasizing the property’s value.

Yes, it’s more likely you may not find a “deal” like you may have in the past. Working with a real estate agent who is deeply connected in your community gives you the best shot at not only finding a new home but also finding one that is exactly what you are looking for. Agents who actively pursue homes in your desired area offer the upper hand in locating new listings as soon as they become available or before they are even listed.

Yes, it’s more likely you may not find a “deal” have in the past. Working with a real estate deeply connected in your community gives shot at not only finding a new home but also that is exactly what you are looking for. Agents pursue homes in your desired area offer the locating new listings as soon as they become before they are even listed.

With my background in economics, I love to what’s going on in the current market. Let’s and ways I can get creative and take advantage market for you.

With my background in economics, I love to analyze what’s going on in the current market. Let’s talk real estate and ways I can get creative and take advantage of today’s market for you.

For more information: www.triadsfinest.com – Kristen Haynes,

For more information: www.triadsfinest.com or 336-209-3382

This list of impressive design features is not meant to overwhelm you but to inspire you when considering any renovation. They create an environment that resonates with luxury seekers and justifies premium pricing. The fusion of expert craftsmanship, personalized design and unparalleled materials ensures not just a house, but a masterpiece. This is where a good designer is worth their weight in gold!

– Kristen Haynes, Triad's Finest

SECRETS TO A FRESH FACE

We all want to look our best, and as we age, our skincare and beauty routines must shift to meet our changing needs. English Black, PA-C and owner of The Curated Aesthetic in Greensboro, answers some of the most frequently asked questions about skin treatments and how they can keep you looking your best.

Q: What is the best treatment for fine lines, wrinkles and an overall refreshed look?

A: Every patient is different and requires a custom treatment plan, but in general, Botox for lines caused by motion, dermal filler for volume loss (think changes in the lower two-thirds of the face), and lasers, radio frequency microneedling and peels for textural improvement all over. And of course, a daily skincare regimen!

Q: What is my best option for improving my under-eye area?

A: Believe it or not, treating the under eye should always start with mid-face/cheek support or filler. If you don’t start mid-face, you can end up with an unfortunate imbalance. Often by starting with the mid-face/cheek, most, if not all of the concern about the under eye will be resolved. If not, small amounts of filler or radio frequency microneedling can be used to achieve the desired result.

Q: What should I expect for injectable maintenance, and will I look worse if I discontinue treatment?

A: You will not look worse if you skip or discontinue treatments. Injectables improve the overall quality of your skin. Maintenance depends on the product: Mid-face filler can last up to two years (longer for under eye) and around 12 months for lower face. Botox and Dysport last around three to four months. Studies show that people who get filler regularly tend to need less of it over time. Important: Get filler based on need, not on time.

Q: What should I look for when choosing my aesthetic provider?

A: Experience and education/training. Our field is changing and progressing rapidly, and with that growth comes many newer providers. It is hard to beat years of experience. Ideally, newer providers should have a more experienced mentor on site. You also want to be sure your provider attends regular hands-on training to ensure the best results.