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CHARLOTTE GIRL MAGAZINE presents
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the SOCIAL
CHARLOTTE
2017
THE PHILANTHROPY | THE FASHION | THE FUN
FULL SERVICE CHARLOTTE BASED INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM
FULL SERVICE INTERIOR DESIGN RENOVATION AND NEW CONSTRUCTION SERVICES E-DESIGN SERVICES FOR QUICK MAKEOVERS
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843.709.5979 | WWW.ONYX-INTERIORS.COM | SUMMER@ONYX-INTERIORS.COM
Charlotte Affair 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com
r i a f f a ISSUE
CONTENTS
CHARLOTTE
2017
the SOCIAL
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SOCIAL YEAR IN REVIEW The Storybook Ball Neiman Marcus 10th Anniversary Fashion Show & Celebration
OUT & ABOUT
Ultimate Power Lunch JDRF Hope Gala Taste of the Tour 5Church Fifth Year Birthday Bash The Barefoot Gala Verse and Vino Taylor Richards & Conger Eleventy Pop-Up-Shop Good Friends Luncheon Healing Hands of Joy
FASHION & STYLE
Angels: Book Signing Clothes for Change Spring Gala Charlotte Seen Ball The Ambassador’s Ball The Charlotte Girl Launch Party January/February The Wish Ball Heart Ball Ballantyne Ball Dancing with the Stars The Charlotte Girl Launch Party March/April
THEN & NOW
NC Wine Showcase Out of the Kitchen The Bag Lady Luncheon Queens Cup 2017 Dress for Success The Charlotte Girl Launch Party May/June
Note from the editor
W
CHARLOTTE GIRL THE MAGAZINE
elcome to Charlotte Affair, a very special issue of Charlotte Girl Magazine that we are devoting to all things social. From Galla’s to Luncheons and everything in
EDITOR IN CHIEF, FOUNDER Colleen Guilfoile Richmond
between, one thing is for certain, Charlotte is a social group.
We celebrate some of the biggest events that rocked tents and clubs around town in Out & About (page 8). It reminds us that for all the glitz
ART DIRECTOR Kim Hall
and glamour, Charlotte is a philanthropic city. The social scene here is about more then just a great party, it’s about making a real difference in the lives of others. Of course, every fashion magazine must have the luxuries of stunning models and gorgeous clothes. We share our beautiful models
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michelle Boudin Scott Homewood Brianna Melanson
and beautiful gowns in our Fashion & Style chapter (page 63). Great inspiration for your wardrobe from vintage pieces in “Life in Color” from the House of Landor to the luxurious menswear from Taylor Richards & Conger in “In Full Bloom” . Finally, we share a little bit of history about our great city in Then & Now (page 130). A peek into the Ivey’s Hotel and the way it was, to how we have certainly put ourselves on the epicurean map in “The Revolution of Food”. We hope you enjoy this issue of Charlotte Girl magazine and look forward to seeing you out and about on the scene. After all, every
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jeff Palmer Ray Dunbar Don POrter
NATIONAL AND REGIONAL ADVERTISING Brooke Butz at brookeb@charlottegirlmagazine.com
Charlotte benefit is an affair to remember.
Colleen Guilfoile Richmond Founder & Editor
Charlotte Girl Magazine is published bimonthly. Reproduction in any manner in whole or part is prohibited without the express written consent of Charlotte Girl Magazine. Material contained herein does not reflect the opinion of the pub-lisher or its staff. Charlotte Girl Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial. Charlotte Girl Magazine reserves the right to edit all materials for space and clarity and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. Articles and photographs are welcome and may be submitted to our offices to be re-viewed.
Letters to the editorial staff: editor@CharlotteGirlMagazine.com
www.charlottegirlmagazine.com facebook.com/Charlottegirlmagazine @Charlottegirlmagazine
Charlotte Girl Magazine P.O. Box 79322 Charlotte, NC 28271
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Charlotte Affair 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com
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CHARLOTTE GIRL THE MAGAZINE
DESIGN MARKET
• Design Market Symposium. Join Charlotte Girl Magazine for an entertaining and insightful evening, which will include a lively discussion with top design professionals, along with an audience participation!
•
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Charlotte Affair 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com
good reads Why not find some new reads and provide some fun new dinner party conversation. ELANOR OLIPHANT IS COMPLETELY FINE
Elanor Oliphant life is a curiosity to her coworkers because she is a creature of habit. The Thirty-year old single women lives in Glasgow. She has worked as a finance clerk for a graphics design from for 10 years. She wears the same clothes, eats the same meals, and does not leave her house except for work. Life interferes when she helps a colleague save a man. Her world gets a bit bigger and starts discovering herself. Gail Honeymans debut novel has been optioned by Reese Witherspoons Hello Sunshine production company. At Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. ISBN 9780735220683.
CHIC STAYS
Take a tour of the world’s most beautiful hotels with your favorite actors, writers, musicians, and models in Chic Stays. From Sofia Coppola’s luxurious family retreat in beautiful Bernard, Italy, to the beaches of Kate Winslet’s secret Scottish hideaway, each of these personal tales of the loveliest spots around the globe are packed with anecdotes and lyrical descriptions to transport readers. At assouline.com
GYPSET LIVING
In her third book in the Gypset series for Assouline, Julia Chaplin explores the living spaces of gypsey-jet-setters around the world. Stunning photography opens the door to the fascinating and dazzling homes and haunts of the bohemian artists, designers, and bons vivant know as the gypset. At Assouline.com
PERFECT FRENCH COUNTRY
Inspirational interiors from rural France by Ross Byam Shaw. Ros Byam Shaw celebrates relaxed rural France at its finest, visiting timeless and beautiful French country homes that feature ancient beams, stone fireplaces, and paneled rooms, revealing the timeless and authentic beauty of the French country home. At Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. ISBN 9781849757997.
DINNER WITH GEORGIA O’KEEFFE
Featuring fifty recipes collected from Georgia’s favorite cookbooks with her handwritten notes or prepared for her by cooks and caretakers, Dinner with Georgia O’Keefe is a perfect balance between the fresh local and traditional ingredients O’Keeffe sought and the new Mexican landscape and culture that constantly influenced both her art and her sense of self. At assouline.com
THE MISFORTUNES OF MARION PALM
“Marion Palm is on the lam” begins Emily Culliton’s debut novel. All Marion wanted was financial security. However, her rich, poet husband, has not meet her expectations. When we meet Marion, she has stuffed 40,000 in a backpack which she has been embezzling from her daughters New York private school. Cullitons empathic, witty storytelling will have you finish this page-turner in one sitting. At Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. ISBN 9781524731908
DRESSING IN THE DARK www.cmlibrary.org
In Her very first book, celebrity stylist Kate Young draws inspiration from iconic fashion moments in film to choose the most influential evening wear style of all time, and offers her expert insight as to why these looks are so definitive and are worth revisiting today for that special night out. This book, is an accessory no women will want to dress for the dark with-out. At Assouline.com
www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society society sightings sightings The Storybook Ball Ball The Storybook
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he Storybook Ball Featuring Peter Pan with Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte, was an exciting evening of fun and philanthropy. Community members, corporate partners and philanthropic leaders walked the red carpet in the heart of uptown. Held Saturday, September 17 at the Hilton Charlotte Center City. It was a spectacular evening of dinner, dancing, networking, and a silent and live auction. The evening celebrated the work and missions of the donors and volunteers, and most importantly the families who call the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte their home.
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1. Ronald Mc Donald House Staff 2. Amy and Brian Schroeder 3. Brandi Fonseca, Lisa Krass, David and Catherine Ohmstede 4. Tim, Karen, Andrew, and Shelley Verhagen 5. Catherine and David Ohmstede 6. Brenda and Jeff Stanton, Ronnie Thornton 7. Chrissy Reams, Shurhonda Kirk 8. Christine Bosco, Angelique Morabito 9. Diane Carter, Bill and Ann Roberts
10. Eric and Audrey Hauss 11. Frances and Jim Williams 12. Greg and Sandy Rossier 13, Heather Paviol, Callie Magee, Keri Cooper, Emily Hudgens 14. John and Patti Phillips, Lisa and Rick Szafran 15. Mark and Kate Van Poppel 16. Mike and Melissa Neader 17. Julia Gass, Emily Dillon 18. Irina Rimler, Jen Alessi www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings sightings Neiman Marcus 10th Anniversary Neiman Marcus 10th Anniversary Fashion Show & Celebration Fashion Show & Celebration
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hursday evening September 29th was an evening of fun, as Neiman Marcus celebrated 10 years in Charlotte. NM hosted a fall trends runway event emceed by Joe Zee of Yahoo’s Style’s. The evening highlighted two Charlotte organizations. The Community School of the Arts and the Charlotte Ballet. The Trend’s shown on the runway were: Ripe Berry Shades, Fall Florals, Everything Velvet, High Shine Metallics, Skirts that Move, The Bomber Jacket, Chokers, Top Handle Bags, The Adorned Shoe and the Dramatic Eye.
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Alexa Forte, Stacee Michelle, Jane Edmonds Alyssa Williams, Mary Parlemon, Melissa Igle Andre Michael, Nina Tran Ashley Allen, Caroline Campbell Brooke Mize, Virginia Rosen Chloe Mays, Jamie Russell Debbie Frail, Cecelia McNorrill Holly Roberson , Suzanne Libfraind, Shelly Fasciana Iesha Foxworth, Clayton Newsome Juliana Novaes, Larissa Lopez Julie Szeker Barbara Spradling, Devlin McNeil
12. Kseniya Martin, Erin Maddrey 13. Lisa Copeck, Amber Long, Jacqueline Delvalle, Tetra Gblia, Kristin Leone, Whitney Martin 14. Lisa Flynn-Booth, Donna Wright 15. Liz Hilliard, Clary Hilliard-Gray 16. Luis Machicao, Alexandra Naranjo 17. Melissa Hummel, Donna Short 18. Meredith Brassil, Ellen Smith 19. Paige Hamilton, Gail Syfert 20. Whitley Hamlin, Sherri Helms, Melissa Braun www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings society sightings
Ultimate Power Lunch Lunch Ultimate Power
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he Dress for Success 2016 Ultimate Power Lunch was held at the Fillmore Charlotte. This year’s gathering honored Peggy Barrow Clubertson as the Paradigm Award winner for her commitment to educate, elevate and empower others. Peggy, is a founding member of the Dress for Success Charlotte Community Advisors. Dress for Success mission is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and development tools to help women thrive in life and in work.
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1. Beth Bresnahan, Martha Rick 2. Beth Monahan, Carolyn Clarke, Wanda Pritchett 3. Verona Hendrix, Jennifer Talbot 4. Catherine Nason, Lib Creech, Priscilla Walters 5. Chris McLeod, Tara Lynn 6. Cindy Libhardt, Catrina Davis, Madison Gates 7. Daris Hillman, Janet Smith 8. Emily Vaughan, Donna Grossman 9. Heidi Starnes, Colin Hood 10. John Bay, Daralyn Nicholson, Katie Galbraith 11. June Carter, Ellen Holliday
12. Katherine Farris, Lindsay Robinson 13. Brent Andrew, Devin O'Connor, Jennifer Andrew, Tim O'Connor, Olivia Andrew 14. Keia Hewitt, Arletha Blake 15. Megan Maloney, Carolyn Laraway 16. Susan tannehille, Ann Adams, Jarian Kerekes 17. Sam Sarin, Margueritte Rupar 18. Sharisse Williams, DeAlva Wilson 19. Tom Smart, Andrea Campbell 20. Tracy Libertino, Lisa Hildreth
www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com 2016 www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com| | November Charlotte Affair 2017 25 13
society society sightings sightings JDRF Hope Gala Gala JDRF Hope
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his year’s honorees Rita and Ken Church, parents of country music superstar Eric Church will be honored for their steadfast commitment and support of JDRF. This evenings event is one of the area’s largest single event fundraiser. Last year it raised over $1.2 million, which was the most successful gala in the 43 year history of the chapter. This year over 700 guests attended to further fund type 1 research. Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a childhood disease, although 85% of those living with T1D are adults. Rita Church was diagnosed at age 53 with T1D and is a resident of Hickory, NC, Rita is a ardent volunteer with JDRF as well as her husband Ken. ” We are extremely gracious and humbled to be selected by JDRF as this year’s Gala honorees. TiD is a 24/7 struggle and I am in awe of how my wife handles her daily “ups and downs” with such grace. Our biggest focus is on prevention: we want to find a cure so that our grandchildren’s generation no longer has to endure this lifetime battle” shares Ken Church.
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1. Heather and Kevin Birnbaum, Roz Greenspon, Marty Birnbaum, Susanne Dillingham, Keith Greenspon 2. Aleczandria Whitfield and Tremell Parker 3. Allen and Pamela Wilson, Kendra and Brad Bess 4. Amanda Billish and Karena Cunningham 5. Beth Leonard and Mary Onak 6. Bryan Criswell, Ashley Pizzo, Kara Criswell 7. Caroline Sheppard and Amanda Jarman 8. Courtney and Tori Sanders
9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.
Dave and Sue Guilmette David Zittrouer and Kelsey Lemieur Ed and Patsy O'Keefe Elizabeth and J.J. Schonberg Gloria and Ron Garrick John and Anne Obeck Julia and Michael Tarwater, Ana Ray Kristine and Dan West Len and Erica Lopez Murielle and Ziad Hage www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society society sightings sightings Taste of the Taste of Tour the Tour
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he Symphony Guild Of Charlotte held its annual Fundraiser at the stunning Ferguson’s new South End showroom. This exciting evening offered scrumptious appetizers from chefs at Bontera, Napa on Providence, Passion 8, The Art Institute, OGGI, and the Cellar at Duckworth’s, a signature cocktail, auction, and swanky swag bag. Some of the fun items up for auction were; Dinner for two at Evoke and a one night stay at Le Meridian, two months personal training with The Exercise Coach, and a one night stay at the Duke Mansion. The evening’s party is the kick off to the Symphony Guild of Charlotte’s Heart of the Home Kitchen Tour fundraiser.
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Erin Pais, Aimee Couturier, Karen Bernhardt Francine Lopez, Cookie Parnell Fred Quinones Jamila Hogans, Quoinesha Jones Jeremy Bivins, Bruce and Katrina Moffitt Julia Church, Betty Lou Newcomb, Priscilla Greene 7. Krista Lineberger, Joanne Belford 8. Linda Borders, Eva Nove 9. Mary Deissler, Michelle Hamilton, Anne McKnight 10. Patsy Reames, Jane Thomas
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Patty Lambert, Devlin McNeill Penny Parker, Renner St. John Robin Simmons, Cassie Salyers, Rich Pizio, Sonia Gant, Liz Lowry 14. Sally and Tom Golden 15. Stacey Ferraro, Mimi McLeod, Karah Prokay 16. Suzanne Bahr, Sherry Williams, Jeanette Alvarado 17. Tommy Laughlin, Jeanine Devaney, Jody Hoffman 18. Cathy Wiesneth, Jerry Donatelli 19. Miriam McKinnis, Miesha Brown 20. Eloy Roy www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings 5Church Fifth Year Birthday Bash
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Church celebrated it’s with year with a festive anniversary party. They had the Vance Cougar Marching Band along with music by DJ J. Overcast. The cake was designed by The Celestial Cakery and not to be missed was the tasting menu for the evening created by none other
Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com
than Chef Jamie Lynch. Happy Anniversary.
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society sightings The Barefoot Gala
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his years 5th Annual Samaritan’s Feet International Barefoot Gala was held at the Le Meridien Hotel here in Charlotte. The black tie event was an evening to Kick off you shoes, enjoy fabulous food, dance and mingle, and make a lasting difference in a child’s life. The organization shares a message of hope and love through washing
the feet of impoverished children around the world and adorning them with new shoes.
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1. No Shoes, No Problem 2. Gary , Cathy, and Jaydon Reavis 3. Kick off your shoes 4. Fabulous food 5. Catherine Cole, Emily Duval 6. Debra Rotella, Holly and Douglas Reed 7. Dillon Hahn, Elizabeth Coggins, Ruthy Woodall 8. Evan and Missy Knox
9. Franchesca and Gina Bonfiglio, Marie Muller 10. Frank and Rachel Verdi 11. Harold Doctor, Kevin Morgan 12. Manny and Wale Ohonme, Phillip and Gladys Nelson 13. Yemi Ohonme, Lisa Wells, Dele Ohonme, Katie Vanderhoord 14. Lauren Woodall, Katie Shepherd, Kaitlyn Westmoreland 15. Lynette Jones, Matthew Miller 16. Trace Dodson, Madison Smith, Clarissa Cappadona www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings Verse & Vino
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erse & Vino is a signature event hosted by The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. This event brings nationally recognized authors to Charlotte every year to celebrate lifelong literacy and increase awareness and support for the library. Guests share an evening of conversation, cuisine, book signing and fine wine. The event hosts
over 1,000 guests to support the Library’s mission : to create a community of readers and empower individuals with free access to information and the universe of ideas.
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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com
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1.Verse & Vino signature wine 2. Alicia Bowers, Sarah Whitmire, Kelli Dunn 3. Book Signing 4. Fabulous wine 5. Allen Davis, Nikki Keith 6. Amy Hockett, Lauri Andreozzi, Selena Giovannelli 7. Kim Butler, Conctance Finch 8. Brian and Morgan Cromwell, Charles Bowman
9. Jamie Jolly, Elizabeth Sterling 10. Rosa Dest, Laura Pearson, Janet Trusty 11. Amy Richard, Stephanie Nance 12. Rumaan Alam 13. Carolyn Jackson, Rick Clauss 14. Walker Doermann, Chandler Martin, Sheena Patel 15. Judy Lekoski, Brandon Lunsford 16. Felice james, Jennifer Lane www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings Taylor Richards & Conger ELEVENTY POP UP SHOP GRAND OPENING EVENT
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fabulous evening filled with beautiful sportswear for men and women, live models in ELEVENTY clothing, hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Geoff Schneiderman and Erica Singer of Eleventy presented their Fall Collection of jackets, outerwear, knits, dresses, sport shirts and vests for the Grand Opening Event of the Eleventy PopUp-
Shop. This unique concept shop is housed within the TRC sportswear area and features this season’s entire Eleventy collection. It is a must see to appreciate and feel the fine fabrics and fit.
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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com
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1. Chris Marelli 2. Eleventy Pop Up event 3. Eleventy clothing 4. Lindsay Boheler 5. Taylor Richars & Conger 6. Amanda Rudnik, Phillip Smyre 7. Doug Smith, Justin Nieves 8. Glenn Taylor
9. Jasmine Harward 10. Sonja Barnes, James Britt, Maureen Royale 11. Rolando and Suzetta Calzata 12. Karen Taylor, Nicole Shook, Katie Milam 13. Maureen Royale, Martha Jones 14. Tammy and John Griffith 15. George Hodge 16. Sonja Barnes, Singer Matthews, Maureen Royale www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings Goods Friends Luncheon
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atherine Browning, Alice Folger, Sally Saussy, and Patty Norman, assembled a group of women that would become known as Good Friends, an organization whose goal is to raise funds for those who need help but who have exhausted all other resources. This year they celebrated their 30th Anniversary with
the Good Friends Luncheon, held at the Charlotte Convention Center. One hundred percent of the funds raised at the luncheon go directly to helping the community. The donations collected at the luncheon sponsor an entire year of giving to the disadvantaged in the Charlotte area. In December a record crowd of over 1,500 women raised over $511,434 in just one hour! This was the highest amount in over30 years!
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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com
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1. Charlotte Convention Center 2. Gary , Cathy, and Jaydon Reavis 3. Good Friends Luncheon 4. Alicia Morris, Helen King 5. A record crowd 6. Alyssa Levine, Nicole Sodoma, Amanda Cannavo 7. Camilla Turner, Liz Cathy 8. Nancy Stroud, Shirley McCoy
9. Kathy Collins Kim Bratton, Frank Dowd, Dottie Leatherwood 10. Chrystal Joy, Shay Merritt, Robbie Howell 11. Prudy Kornegay, Audra Tyree 12. Toya Allen, Whitney Wertz, Gretchen Nelly 13. Carrie Cook, Mary Ware 14. Myrna Medina, Jan Cook, Cathy Martin 15. Cynthia Yeager, Tamara Jordan 16. Velva Woollen, Kathleen Duncan, Judy OLeary www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings Healing Hands of Joy at Anne Neilson Fine Art Gallery
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eason of Joy� exhibition at Anne Neilson Fine Art Gallery featured inspiring works from the gallery artists especially created for this special exhibition. 20% of the gallery’s sales from the show went to benefit Healing Hands of Joy.
Healing Hands of Joy trains fistula survivors as Ambassadors in Zimbabwe. They empower these women with confi-
dence, knowledge and the resources to go back into their communities to help prevent injuries due to childbirth. Artists for this exhibition were given photographs of fistula survivors and the Ethiopian landscape to inspire their creative process and give them a subject matter to translate in their beauty. The outcome was prepossessing.
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1. Senait Tarekekgn, Rebecca Walsh 2. Ann Neilson, Jeanne Ebert 3. Clark Neilson, Debbie and Greg Gorelick 4. Ashley Bowman, Devin Jaros 5. Arie Millner, Mia Frandsen
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6. Julie Campbell, Scott Ball 7. Terry Hart, Susan Rankin 8. Sandy Scott, Susan Langer 9. Kim Gibbs, Cynthia Schaffner, Marcie Coker, Cynthia Ayers 10. John Ayers, Adrian Redmond www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings Angels: The Collector’s Edition Book Signing
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luncheon was held at The Charlotte Country Club to celebrate Anne Neilson’s newest beautiful coffee table book, Angels: The Collector’s Edition. The Collector’s Edition includes the largest collection of stories and fine art images to date. This book contains
the most beloved content from Angels In Our Midst PLUS an additional 154 pages that are filled with stories and art. Special Guest and luncheon speaker, Ron Hall shared moving stories from his NY Times best selling book Same Kind of Difference As Me. The book has been made into a major motion picture. We are looking forward to this movie release in 2017, with the stars Renee Zellweger, Greg Kinnear, Jon Voight, Djimon Hounsou and Olivia Holt. Ron wrote and produced the movie. Ron is an advocate for the homeless and The Collector’s Edition is dedicated to organizations across the country committed to fighting the effects of homelessness.
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1. Angels: The Collector’s Edition. 2. Collection of stories and fine art images 3. Anne Neilson, Ron Hall 4. Giving back is Sweet 5. Anne Neilson signing books 6. Paulette Cohen, Joy Lamb, Nell Bryant 7. Amy Spratt, Jenny Balch, Carol Gamble 8. Cindy Grantham, Christine Wade, Courtney Purviance
9. Chris Williamson, Alice Lavender 10. Beth Hall, Ashley Jeffcoat, Chris Totty, Jeff Jeffcoat 11. Theresa Florian, Missy Abin-Nader, Miriam Cron 12. Dee Reid, Teri Spears, Elizabeth and Matthew Brown 13. Kristin Everidge 14. Ron Hall signing books 15. Anne Cochran, Kelley Vieregg 16. Jessica Hood, Anne Sorrells, Carrie Woodard, Lisa Long www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings Clothes for Change Spring Gala
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Celebration of Charlotte Women was held at the Mint Museum Uptown. The signature event aims to raise money and awareness to support women empowerment initiatives. This year’s recipients of the gala include Lily Pad Haven and a Women of Vision Scholarship to Central Piedmont Community College.
A fabulous night of inspiration and giving back.
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1. Eliza Fisher, John Holly, Carson Honeycutt 2. Auction items 3. Fritz and Sandy Rabuazzo, Alexa Renni 4. Alex Wrinkle, Emily Grygiel 5.Blair Scott, Brandon Reid 6. Emma James, Emma Garvee, Isabelle Bradbury 7. Joe Haston, Seungmin Park 8. Julianna, Beth , and Alexa Renni
9. Sarah Rowan, Alva Niakouei 10. Courtney Lesage, Kate Capitano, Nadi Weber 11. Ida Adibi, Cassandra Cassidy 12. Nick Loder, Beth Rennie, Whitney Greene 13. Sophia and Susan Pittinaro 14. Leslie Grygiel, Kirsten Wrinkle, Carla Tweddale 15. Kelsey Greene, Jacob Menendez 16. Megan Gregory, Sarah Warner, Jane Boreli www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings Charlotte Seen Ball
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he Seen Ball was a Holiday Ball hosted by Charlotte Seen. The evenings affair was held at the Charlotte City Club. A sit down dinner was served while the evening performances consisted of : Megan Miller from Opera Carolina singing Ave Maria, Dance Productions, The Remix: Shohn Petty, Lori Long, Sabrina Perrell and Tracy
Faggart. Sugar Plum Ballet Fairies: Jenna Petty, Taylor Tarquin, Savanna Mayes, Alexei Alcombright, Sydney Magnum, Zoe Rabon. Soloist Professional Ballerina: Emily Green. Dance Center USA: Dmitriy Solomakha and Gabriela Sevillano Solomakha. Vocalist: Daniel De Solis. The Evening was topped off with dancing and dessert.
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1. Altered State gift bags 2. Joe Cannamela, Juliana and Fernando Ramirez 3. Emanuel Diaz, Irma Frockt, Rita Miles 4. Megan Miller 5. Amanda Hollingsworth, Ellen Alvarado 6. Dr. Vincent Voci, Sandra Voci 7. Kayla Sandoval, Elizabeth Nagari, Jacqueline Brunton, Sandra Voci 8. Rob Mc Dowell, Marvin Frockt
9. Rita Miles, Berhan Nebioglu 10. Marie Royale, George Hodge 11. Michael and Susan Johnson 12. Jessica Rivet, Morgan Spangler 13. Sandra and David Webber 14. Zaidoon Al-Zubaidy 15. Tina Geisler, Ken Davies 16. Shayla Calloway, Cikora Udeagbala www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings The Ambassador’s Ball
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he Allegro Foundation held it’s 8th annual Ambassador’s Ball at the Quail Hollow Club. The ball is to raise awareness and funding for their free movement education classes held throughout Charlotte for children living with disabilities. Donations transform hundreds of lives of the children in our community.
The Allegro Foundation is a local non-profit that is in its 25th year as an independent organization. Which receives no federal or state funding. They strive to provide free of charge movement education programs to the children who so desperately need them. To donate go to Allegrofoundation.net
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1. 8th Annual Ambassador’s Ball 2. Teri Faulkner, Alan and Libby Simoninni, Daryl Faulkner 3. Fabulous food 4. Nancy and Michael Mc Nelis 5. Audrey and Rob Boisvert 6. Travis and Melissa Weaver, Karen and Eric Shockner 7. Barbara Jones 8. Bogulsawa Jeblonski, Andromeda Williams, Isabelle Canton
9. Dianne Adams, Al Fiore 10. Jeff Shapiro, Betsy Mack, Christie and Timothy Paul 11. Scott Vogelsonger, Jacqueline Veit 12. Lindsay Lewis, Ebba Karlsson, Pat Farmer 13. Gator and Virginia Henry 14. Razvan Theodoru, Isabelle Canton, Richard Oliver 15. Suzanne and Amy Elizabeth Pittenger 16. Lauren Newton, John Espinola www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings The Charlotte Girl Magazine January/February issue launch party held at The Imperial Charlotte.
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1.The Imperial Lounge 2. Larry Richmond, Rita Miles 3. Carolina Madrid, Matt Spivey, Krista Froweins 4. Great Music 5. Andy and Colleen King, Monica Vasquez 6. Charlotte Soper, Kristen Honeycutt 7. George Hodge, Behrhan Nebioglu 8. Howard Spikes, Rob Mc Dowell
15 9. Jenna Casper, Skyler Serenbetz 10. Liz Egan, Colleen Richmond, Kallie Boruss, Julia Moulton 11. Mary Billingsley, Amy Dassner, Jordan Bailey, Terrence Swinton 12. Beth Gunter 13. Skyler Serenbetz, Jenna Casper 14. Marie Royale, George Hodge, Rita Miles, Behrhan Nebioglu, Stephanie Hawks, Minh Lee, Howard Spikes 15. Stephanie Hawks, Behrhan Bebioglu www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings The Wish Ball
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ake-A-Wish® Central and Western North Carolina hosted the 14th annual Wish Ball at the Westin Charlotte. The Wish Ball is the chapter’s largest single event of the year, the Ball brings together over 600 guests from across the Charlotte and surrounding communities to celebrate the Power of a Wish.
The evening included an incredible cocktail hour, an elegant dinner, music, dancing, silent and live auctions. As well
as countless surprises both for and from local wish families. Over the years The Wish Ball has raised more than two million dollars to make every eligible child’s wish come true. Make-A-Wish grants children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. More than 4,000 wishes have been granted for local children since the chapters’ founding in 1985.
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1. 14th Annual Wish Ball 2. Tables are set for a great event 3. Gifts are wrapped 4. The Wish Ball 5. Blake Schrader, Gary Barber, Kyle Schrader 6. Alyssa Schaefer, Maggie Huffman 7. Christine Fail, Haley Ross, Kelly Wakeley, Briana Evans 8. Jennifer and Jeff Ross
9. Randy Clark, Eric Platz 10. Christy Keagy, Karen Murphy 11. Matt and Melissa Johnson, Eric and Monica Smith 12. Violet Spataro, Larry Sprinkle 13. Jane Singleton, Jay Myers 14. Dave Ferguson, Kellie Hart, Adrienne and Brian Pattie 15. Jack and Eleanor Bolton 16. Zack Luttrell, Jarrpd Gray www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings Heart Ball
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he Heart Ball is the city’s oldest and most prestigious black tie event. This year marked the 59th annual greater Charlotte Heart Ball. The ball was held at the Nascar Hall of Fame and presented by Novant Health and TIAA. Attendees were treated like royalty and traveled back in time as they dined and were
entertained. Last year, the Heart Ball campaign raised just over $71 million nation-wide. Allowing them to fund
Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com
life-saving research and prevention programs across the country.
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society sightings Ballantyne Ball
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his year marks the 3rd Annual Ballantyne Ball. It is Ballantyne’s annual Valentine’s masquerade ball for charity. Held at the Ballantyne Hotel, this years beneficiary is Lily Pad Haven, who support victims of human trafficking in Charlotte.
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1. Valentine masquerade ball 2. Cheers! 3. Pula Broadwell, Grant Thompson, Grace Eberle 4. Svetlana Pavlova 5. Amanda and Jonathan Desrochers 6. Chris and Mc Kenzie Kanos, Ania Apicionek, Patrick Braun 7. Lourdes Rodriguez 8. Corey and Wheela Sundstrom
15 9. Dan and Jackie Haggerty 10. Jack and Debbie Holford 11. Jeff Wrinkle, Chad and Amy Everett 12. Mark and Cindy Dunn 13. Doug and Leslie Girard 14. Melissa and Ryan Colosi 15. James Roberts and Sandra Raymore
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society sightings Dancing with the Stars
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harlotte Ballet’s Dancing with the Stars of Charlotte raises record-setting $875,000 to benefit Charlotte Ballet and six local charities Six Charlotte “movers and shakers,” including banking and healthcare execu-tives and civic leaders performed at the Knight Theater on March 4 at Char-lotte Ballet’s
Dancing with the Stars of Charlotte Gala fundraiser. A record-setting $875,000 was raised to benefit Charlotte Ballet and local charities. The event, in its fifth year, pairs local stars from some of Charlotte’s most esteemed corporations with the professional dancers of Charlotte Ballet, to raise funds for the ballet company and each star’s chosen charity. This year’s gala was presented by PNC Bank. Hosts Hardin Minor and Michelle Boudin kicked-off the evening by honoring former Dancing with the Stars dancers and Charlotte Ballet’s President and Artistic Director Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux, who retires in June 2017. After a performance by Charlotte Ballet, the dancing competition began! The star pairs competed for two awards – People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice. The People’s Choice title went to Civic Leader Liz Simmons, and her Charlotte Ballet partner Juwan Alston, who raised the most funds and re-ceived the most votes for her charity – the Levine Museum of the New South History Matters program.
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1. Dancing with the Stars 2. Celebrating a record-setting event! 3. Beautiful Setting 4. Beauty – Ballerina Style 5. Audra and Ned Tyree 6. Andy Ghazale Johnston, Omid and Julie Ahdieh, Kristen and Del Clark 7. Beverly Stumler, Theresa Faust 8. Kelly and Brian Chambers, Jason and Christiane Felts
9. Mary Griggs, Elizabeth Corsig, Camille Boulware 10. Don and Claudia Griffin 11. Weston Andress, Chelsea Dumas, Hugh McCall 12. Roslyn Jones, Raven Barkley 13. Laurel Hamber 14. Doug and Rebecca Brown 15. Edward Kim, Jerry and Kathy Oliphant, Carol Lovin, Lois Ingland 16. Mike Mc Guire, Claire Rausher, David Marchyshyn www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings The Charlotte Girl Magazine The March / April Magazine Launch Party held at the Reign Restaurant and Lounge.
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society sightings NC Wine Showcase
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his past January, a panel of eight Advanced Sommeliers judged over 125 wines from the vineyards in North Carolina. The top 12 wines from this competition make up the 2017 NC Fine Wines Case. The winning vineyards poured their award winning wines, along with sharing their story of what makes their wine so fabulous
in March at The Duke Mansion. This was a wonderful event to learn about and taste the best of North Carolina wines. LIST OF NC FINE WINE WINNERS 2013 Specialty Lot 152 Sparkling Surry Cellars – Surry Community College *Winner Best Hybrid 2015 Dry Riesling Herrera Vineyards *Winner Best White Vinifera 2015 Unoaked Chardonnay Cellar 4201 2015 Unoaked Chardonnay Jones von Drehle Vineyards 2015 Petit Manseng Jones von Drehle Vineyards 2015 Rosa Dia Jones von Drehle Vineyards
2014 Montepulciano Riserva Raffaldini Vineyards *Winner Best Red Vinifera *Winner Best in Show 2014 Sangiovese Classico Riserva Raffaldini Vineyards 2014 Five Twenty-Nine Barbara Addison Farms Vineyard 2013 Nebbiolo Grove Winery & Vineyard 2013 Two-Five-Nine Tannat
Shelton Vineyards 2006 Port
Shelton Vineyards *Winner Best Dessert/Port Vinifera
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1. NC Wines 2. Gift Bags 3. Delicious Food 4. Griffin Abee 5. Cathy Mc Laughlin, Christina Clark, Dan Mc Laughlin 6. Christina Clark, Mandy Houser 7. Dan Mc Laughlin, Kevin Childers 8. Emily and Zach Hedges
9. Jody Odom, Courtney Schaub, Austin Brown 10. George Toth 11. Geoff Guy 12. Griffin Abee, Max Lloyd 13. Sara page Waugh, Kyle Mayors, Dick Odom 14. Patti and John Petree 15. Woody Powell, Donna Carlyle 16. Greg Hitchins www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings Out of the Kitchen
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ore than a dozen local chefs created a special three-course meal table-side for more than 200 diners, along with a fourth dessert course from a supreme pastry chef. This was all paired with specially selected wines and a cocktail reception. The cool innovative event was the – Girls on the Run’s in-
augural Out of The Kitchen. The gala was held March 15 at the Westin Charlotte to benefit the Charlotte-based nonprofit Girls on the Run. Chefs from all over Charlotte participated, including: – Fahrenheit’s David Feimster – Heritage Food And Drink’s Paul Verica – JP Charlotte’s Lenny Judice – Spring House’s Tim Grandinetti – Stoke’s Christopher Coleman – Toby Joseph from Ft. Lauderdale’s Wild Sea – Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar’s David Lucarelli – Harvest Moon Grille’s Cassie Parsons – Dogwood Southern Table & Bar’s Scott Hollingsworth – Bombay Grill’s Nishal Sethi – Little Spoon Eatery’s Ryan Allen – Best Impressions’ James Fox – Kinship at The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte’s Juan Pablo de la Sota Riva – Chef Douglas Walls, – Dorado Beach Positivo’s Christian Clair – Johnson & Wales’ Quientina Stewart.
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1. Joy Turner 2. Cheers! 3. Chainey Kuykendall 4. Allison Hinshaw, Kathryn Thompson 5. Amanda Christie, Andy Ross, Jane Tramontana 6. Christine Hines, Melissa Houston 7. Kim Niccolls, Kathryn Thompson, Liz Kunz 8. Julie and Alan Efremoff
9. Jenny Harper, Carrie Hanson, Ann Dellavalle 10. Randy and Mary Gregory 11. Jane Tramontana, Liz Wian 12. Luke Vahjen, Stephanie Hunt 13. Raquelle Arreola 14. Rashaan and Quincey Peek 15. Lisa Pickard, Kim Niccolls, Carrie Giamo www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings The Bag Lady Luncheon
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he Bag Lady Luncheon was held this April, to raise funds for the Patriot Military Family Foundation. Presented by Trump International Realty, at Trump National Golf Club in the Lakefront Ballroom. Attendees had the opportunity to bid on hundreds of new and gently used designer handbags, jewelry, accessories and more! New
this year was a fashion show featuring clothing by Pinks and Greens and handbags by Dange Dover. Guest’s enjoyed a Champagne Reception, Presentation of the Colors, a delicious lunch and the special guest emcee nationally syndicated radio host Sheri Lynch of the Bob & Sheri show. Patriot Military Family Foundation (PMFF) raises funds for the immediate welfare, care and support of veterans and their families in the Carolinas. Bag Lady Luncheon is a PMFF fundraiser focused on building homes for veterans in Denver, NC, providing service dogs for veterans with PTSD and other local veterans programs. Patriot Military Family Foundation is eligible for many corporate matching programs. For more details on beneficiaries visit www.patriotmilitaryfamilyfoundation.org.
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1. VBag Lady Luncheon 2. Patriotic setting 3. Gift Bags 4. Trump National 5. Abby Baucom, Analise Malick 6. Beautiful bags 7. Cathy Konefal, Karen Schneider, Lisa Livingston 8. More beautiful bags
15 9. Aliesha Hunter, Jill Matthews 10. Adorable bike 11. Dora Shaw, Charlotte and Amy Johnson 12. Natalie Boschele, Amy Gandy, Kristy Morganti 13. Cathy Konefal, Karen Schneider, Lisa Livingston 14. Let the bidding begin! 15. Stephanie Rodsater, Tanya Hyland
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society sightings Queens Cup 2017 Consulting an event planner produced the Beautiful white theme for this years event pictured here, and a few other fun photos.
photos by Holly Carr Tidwell
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ome fun photos from the 2017 Queens Cup Steeplechase. Holly Carr Tidwell, owner of Holly Day
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society sightings Dress for Success
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he Ultimate Power Lunch held at the Fillmore. This year honored Peggy Barrow Culbertson as the Paradigm Award winner.
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1. Dress for Success 2. Barbara Ellis, Vanessa Harrison, Joan Zimmerman, Stephanie Counts 3. Catherine Nason, Lib Creech, Priscilla Walters 4. Daris Hillman, Janet Smith 5. Alteka Jinwright, Colletta Bryce 6. Beth Monahan, Tom Lane 7. Chris McLeod, Tara Lynn 8. Katie Porier, Pam pearson, Debbie Enna, Jean Veatch
9. Beth Bresnahan, Martha Rick 10. John Bay, Daralyn Nicholson, Katie Galbraith 11. Carolyn Clarke, Idania Hutchins 12. Heidi Starnes, Colin Hood 13. Keia Hewitt, Arletha Blake 14. Susan tannehille, Ann Adams, Jarian Kerekes 15. Tom Smart, Andrea Campbell 16. Tracy Libertino, Tara West, Kelly Bree www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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society sightings The Charlotte Girl Magazine
The May /June Magazine Launch Party held at the Brio Tuscan Grill.
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1. Brio Tuscan Grill 2. Stefani Hasty, Maureen Royale, George Hodge, Marcel Hunter, Tiffany Butz 3. Maureen Royale, Colleen Richmond, George Hodge, Marcel Hunter 4. George Hodge., Marcel Hunter 5. Kim Green, Amy Clark, George Hodge, Latonya Booker 6. Marcel Hunter, George Hodge, Maureen Royale
13 7. Naisla Baretto, Miriam Diaz 8. Amy Clark, Latonya Booker, George Hodge, Kim Green 9. Miriam Diaz, Naisla Baretto, Stefania Rutto, Marcia Lunardi, Jessica Sinski, Linda Cirulnick. 10. Larry Richmond, Marcel Hunter 11. Terri Williams, George Hodge, Melody Stephens 12. Jennifer Grace, Stefani Hasty 13. George Hodge, Maureen Royale www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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!
CHARLOTTE GIRL
FASHION NIGHT OUT THE MAGAZINE
Charlotte Girl Magazine invites you to a special evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvre, and fashion for a very special cause.
Please join Charlotte Girl for a special cocktail reception and fashion runway event at
Southpark to raise funds to benefit The Susan G. Komen of Charlotte foundation. 62
contact: editor@charlottegirlmagazine.com Charlotte Affair 2017 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com
for sponsorship availability.
CHARLOTTE GIRL THE MAGAZINE
Roof with A View
November 2016
Charlotte’s Fascination with Rooftop Bars and Restaurants
The First Ladies of Fashion
America’s Most Iconic First Ladies’ Signature Style
12 Days of Christmas What to Wear to the Party
PLUS...
How Meditation Changes Your Mind & Body
3 Days in Our Nation’s Capital Carolina Fashion on Fire ... and more!
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CHARLOTTE GIRL THE MAGAZINE
JAN/FEB 2017
Cozy Fireplace Bars
Where to warm up to in Charlotte
The New & The Next
The trick to staying on top of your beauty game
PLUS...
12 Months to a Happier Healthier Life 3 Days in Wilmington Life in Color
Dreamy Destinations
...and more
A trip to Iceland
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Life in Color
Styling and Logistics by Rita Miles | Photography by Southern Elite - Ray Dunbar Make up by Natalie Gladden | Hair by Beth Gunter Location : Ink n Ivy Charlotte | Clothes: House of Landor Models from Directions USA Model & Artist Management: Victoria Vesce, Cheyenne Jennings, McKenzie Walden
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CHARLOTTE GIRL THE MAGAZINE
MARCH/APRIL 2017
Off To The Races
PLUS...
Your Perfect Derby Hat
Eating for a Healthy Lean Body
All That Jazz
3 Days in Savannah
Bringing Charlotte back into the jazz spectrum
Decadence ...and more
Dreamy Destinations A trip to Ireland
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Decadence
Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography Make up by Natalie Gladden | Hair by Beth Gunter Location : Chateau Lyon, home of Scott Morris of Morris Costume | Clothes: Neiman Marcus Southpark Charlotte Rolls Royce from Metrolina Auto Group Models: Savannah Jansen, Lara koonts, Emily Crago from Directions USA Model & Artist Management and Madlen Ivanova
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Model Emily Cargo | Make up by Natalie Gladden | Hair by Beth Gunter Dress Jenni Funes | Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography
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Models Savannah Jansen and Madlen Ivanova. Make up by Natalie Gladden
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Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography | Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark, Jumpsuit Dillard’s Southpark
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Model Lara Koonts | Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter | Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark | Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | July/August www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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Model Madlen Ivanova | Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter | Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography Rolls Royce from Metrolina Auto Group
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Model Madlen Ivanova Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography
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Model Emily Cargo | Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter | Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography
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Model Savannah Jansen | Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter | Dress Dillards Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography Rolls Royce from Metrolina Auto Group
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Model Emily Cargo Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte | July/August Affair 2017
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Model Emily Cargo Make up by Natalie Gladden Hair by Beth Gunter Dress Neiman Marcus Southpark Photography by Raymond Patrick of Southern Elite Photography
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CHARLOTTE GIRL THE MAGAZINE
Feeding Your Body for a Beautiful Glowing Skin this Summer
MAY/JUNE 2017
PLUS... In Full Bloom 3 Days in Charleston The Ascot ...and more
The Best
Cookout Wines
The Charlotte
Ballet then and now...
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In Full Bloom
Clothes provided by Taylor Richards & Conger‌Doug Gravely
Photography by Southern Elite / Raymond Patrick on location at The Duke Mansion Charlotte Make up by Natalie Gladden and Coldaseyce | Hair by Beth Gunter Models: George Hodge dressed from Taylor Richards & Conger styled by Doug Gravely of Taylor Richards
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Dress by Kay Unger availble at Dillards Southpark
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Dress by Kay Unger Dillards Southpark Mens Clothes provided by Taylor Richards & Conger‌ Doug Gravely
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Top and skirt by Gianni Bini availble at Dillards Southpark
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Sunkissed
Shot on location at The Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana. A special thank you to Fred Boutouba & Carlos Morales at Hard Rock Punta Cana for making this shoot possible. Photography by Gilberto Abreu, Model Brooke Butz, Swimwear by House Of Genco owner and designer Melia Simmons
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The IVEY’S BUILDING A Legendary Landmark Gets a New Focus for the Future By Scott Homewood
Like all smart businessmen, Ivey soon realized being a merchant in the Bible Belt meant adjusting to connect with his customers. For example, as a devout Methodist, Ivey insisted that the curtains be drawn in his store windows on Sundays, so that the pedestrians would not be tempted to consider matters of this world on the Lord's Day. And today you have a successful business like Chick-Fil-A taking the same position. Thanks to Charlotte’s economic boom, the population increased and so did Ivey’s business. This
The Beginnings
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forced him out from his small store room uptown and into the building that still bares his name. The
o most of us, February 18th, 1900 might be
elegant building at Fifth
just a regular winter’s day, but to our beautiful
and North Tryon Street
city of Charlotte, it is the day a chain of events
was designed by archi-
began which had a large part to do with shaping and
tect William H. Peeps and
influencing the city. It is an influence which remains to
opened as the new home
this day. It is the day Joseph Benjamin Ivey, the son of
of J. B. Ivey & Company
a Methodist preacher, opened a small store room in rent-
in 1924. Business continued to boom as the citizens of
ed space in uptown and began his business. At the time,
Charlotte and the surrounding areas flocked to his beau-
Charlotte’s economy was booming thanks in a large part to
tiful flagship store. The original building was renovated
the cotton mill trade and many businessmen migrated to
and enlarged in 1939. Over the next 50 years, Ivey’s not
Charlotte seeking to take advantage of the prosperity here.
only dominated the retail business of uptown Charlotte,
Does it not seem familiar to what Charlotte experiences
but continued to expand all over North Carolina and down
today with our booming economy and all the people who
as far as Florida. Ivey himself was a man of many hobbies
come here every year? One thing about Charlotte that few
who devoted great amounts of time and energy to grow-
cities can say is that except for the economic downturn of
ing flowers, and some longtime residents may remember
2008, Charlotte has had unabated growth for many, many
that the restaurant in Ivey's Department Store was once
years. And, it has hardly been affected by the same eco-
named the Tulip Terrace. Sadly, as time went on and the
nomic issues other cities in the country have faced. People
concept of the enclosed shopping mall became popular,
of all kinds are moving to Charlotte at a tremendous rate
Ivey’s competitors such as Belks and Efirds moved out of
(close to 30,000 people a year) bringing their talents and
the uptown area and to the malls in the suburbs. Eventu-
desires to succeed along with them. This has made eco-
ally, Ivey's was bought out by Marshall Field's in 1980 who
nomic growth almost inevitable. And so has it been since
would itself be purchased by BATUS Retail Group in 1982.
Ivey moved here, trying to make a way for himself in busi-
Field's and its’ other concerns The Crescent, Frederick &
ness, striving to get his store to succeed, little knowing he
Nelson, and Ivey's divisions joined other BATUS divisions
would have an impact on Charlotte that continues to the
such as Gimbel's, Kohl's, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Eventual-
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ly, BATUS sold Ivey's to Dillard's on May 4th, 1990, prior
The first main renovation to the building after Ivey’s de-
to the sale of Marshall Field's to the Dayton Hudson Cor-
partment store shut down was the conversion of the top
poration. With the changes in lifestyle trends and people
four floors of the building into residential condominiums.
mostly fleeing from uptown areas around the country to a
These condominiums include living spaces with ceilings
more suburban landscape, uptown Charlotte suffered and
ranging from 14-22 feet with 10 foot windows, exposed
could no longer support new retail businesses that would
beams, hardwood floors and fireplaces. The building in-
have bolstered Ivey’s. So the decision was made to close
cludes a security desk that is manned 24 hours a day, and
the uptown store for good. The building was converted
has private underground parking. The condominiums
into luxury condominiums shortly there after. With the
have proven to be very popular and have been filled con-
historic Ivey's Department Store converted to condos in
sistently with little turn over since they were built. The
1995 by local architect Jim Gross.
second part of the original renovations after the depart-
Besides the flagship building itself, little pieces of the
ment store shut down was to convert the first two floors
Ivey’s chain still remain in Charlotte despite the chain it-
into retail and office spaces, somewhat to keep the idea of
self being defunct. The most notable is Arthur’s Wine Shop
retail in uptown Charlotte alive despite losing the popu-
and Restaurant, a onetime fixture in the local Ivey’s stores,
lar department store. These renovations were finished be-
the business is still going strong today inside of the Belk’s
fore the dotcom boom and ended up containing small fast
Southpark location.
food style restaurants and offices of one type or another.
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Businesses would come and go, but the trend pretty much
While touring the hotel I was amazed at the list of ameni-
stayed the same. The back of the building, facing Church
ties. I was told the new Ivey’s Hotel offers a complimentary
street had become various restaurants and bars over the
Library Lounge access, continental breakfast, a state of the
years with the popular restaurant 5Church being the cur-
art Fitness Center, conference and meeting space, valet
rent, and one of the most popular tenants.
parking, transportation services, laundry and dry cleaning,
Thankfully, the building has been given yet another
business and shipping services, restaurant reservations,
new lease on life, one that will surely take the legendary
sporting and event tickets, and complimentary high-speed
Ivey’s name into the future and give it even more luster.
Wi-Fi. The rooms themselves are amazingly beautiful. It
MRK Property Development bought the first and second
was hard to imagine just a few years prior, I was walking
floors of the building in multiple transactions starting in
these rooms as different spaces – some of these incredi-
2012 and 2013, and began a multimillion dollar renova-
ble suites were right where the WOK Bar was, other rooms were where the Dollar stores were. It was mind-blowing, to be sure! I could only imagine what a customer of Ivey’s department store would think of the space now! Even the lobby, was simply amazing! It is a very comfortable room, almost designed like a library in regards to furnishings, but with over sized windows looking onto Tryon and low office desks with comfortable chairs in front so guests will have a more comfortable, personal experience checking in.
tion. MRK paid just under $4 million for the 45,000 square-foot space. It has been converted into an upscale hotel concern by a company with previous luxury boutique hotels in Asheville and Miami. The Ivey’s Hotel is the third boutique hotel in The Desirant Hotel Collec-
I was shown all four variations of room “schemes” (Supe-
tion which was imagined and then curated by the owners
rior Atrium, City View, Balcony Suite and Executive Suite)
of MRK Investments. A 42-room boutique getaway in the
and some things immediately jump out, the first thing be-
heart of Uptown that blends the city’s history with a Pari-
ing the various rooms’ décor which manages to fuse the
sian flair combined with a new modern twist. The Ivey’s
vintage with the contemporary. It’s very Parisian in style
Hotel is here to provide its guests with The Ultimate Bou-
yet with very sleek, modern touches including all sorts of
tique Experience. By blending classic Parisian glamour
custom-made art deco luxury items infused with midcen-
with contemporary touches, the hotel is truly a unique
tury modern richness while giving the distinct impression
treat for their guests.
of a Parisian setting. The unique light fixtures, crystal acwww.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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A beautiful hotel bar called Sophia’s Lounge will be open facing 5th street (across from Dandelion Market) and will feature accordion windows that can be completely opened and will have sumptuous decor which will follow the same French elegance theme as the rest of the hotel. The ambiance will provide the perfect place for a cocktail, but more importantly, add another elegant cocktail lounge that uptown so desperately needs. Right now, it is slated that the folks behind the popular bar 5Church will run this elegant space with their chefs creating a new small bite menu specents and mirrors add plenty of glitter and personality and I was informed that every lamp, chair, picture, mirror, and table (right down to the drawer handles) was either handpicked by one of the owners, who fancies himself an interior decorator (he’s not by trade, but has done an incredible job here) or a craftsman hired by the owners who made the item or décor to their specs. The 400-year-old authentic French oak floors and exposed brick add much to the charm, as do the detailed molding and woodwork which was also made by craftsmen hired by the owners to their specs and special to the Ivey’s Hotel. Each have an individual look and neither will look like any other Ivey Hotel. Vintage magazine pages and posters showcasing Parisian couture and culture in the early 1900s grace the walls of the hallways, black-and-white versions have been blown up and framed to make a statement. Each room also has its’ own special artwork scheme, with no two rooms having the exact same décor. Another point of interest is that antique watch faces have been transformed into custom framed art throughout the hotel, and the grand staircase is accented with scrolling, wrought-iron railings. Each piece helps create a warm, comfortable and memorable environment that guest’s will immediately appreciate. Each room also has a giant flat-screen television complete with a Bose Soundbar, fully stocked wet bar, Dean & DeLuca snacks, Nespresso coffee and incredibly comfortable Italian bedding. The executive suites measure roughly 800 square feet and room rates start at $299 to just over $600 per night. Each room features reclaimed French oak floors, custom designed lighting fixtures, bespoke furnishings, natural foam mattresses, and Frette Italian luxury linens. There is also a curated art collection. Some rooms have extra accoutrements depending on size and function plus the amenities listed above.
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cifically for Sophia’s. Of course, a creative cocktail menu will also be curated. It makes perfect sense for 5Church to be involved as the bar also provides all the room service meal requests for the hotel. There is a large space next to the hotel bar facing 5th street in the middle of the block that may eventually be used for retail space or another restaurant. Since the owners of the Ivey’s hotel now own the space QDoba is leasing, should the fast food restaurant ever leave, it would allow the hotel owners to add yet another attraction should they wish, possibly a French bakery or café.
THE
FOOD
Revolution By Michelle Boudin
“We’re seeing a mix of well-established restauranteurs
in addition to young, inventive chefs, many of whom graduated from Johnson & Wales University. Combine that talent with the concentration of international eateries we have and the traditional Southern flavors we excel at and it’s clear we’re crafting a really special food scene here,” she adds. Joshua Grogan, the general manager at Vivace agrees. The popular Italian restaurant in the Metropolitan has two sous chefs who are JWU grads. Grogan says, “The JWU campus opening in 2004 helped, by attracting culinary minded students, who strengthened the talent pool for existing restaurants, and attracted new ventures to the market. Some of these students themselves
F
have gone on to open their own restaurants. To be a sucrom a South End sushi place, to a SouthPark
cessful "food city", you have to have chef-driven concepts.”
steakhouse, to an uptown gastropub, it seems there’s a new hot restaurant opening in Charlotte
all the time. In fact Zagat’s list of the 26 Hottest Food Cities for 2016 ranked Charlotte number nine, ahead even of Charleston, saying, “Once known only as a sports-centric center of commerce, Charlotte has emerged as the new destination for adventurous, landscape-driven cuisine.” So what’s going on? “Dining is among the top activities visitors are looking to experience when they come to Charlotte and our city is quickly becoming a destination on the rise in terms of our culinary prowess,” says Laura White, the executive director of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority. www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | Charlotte Affair 2017
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At least some of that growth is thanks to Charlotte’s restaurant week – Queen’s Feast – that started back in 2008 with just forty-two restaurants. Now there are more than 130 restaurants serving more than 180,000 diners twice a year. Queens Feast creator Bruce Hensley says, “The Charlotte restaurant scene has changed significantly in recent years due to population growth, the expanding culinary savvy and interests of diners, the strong economy, and the recognition of Charlotte as a great place to live, work, play, and do business. We are seeing a lot of local restaurateurs But he says there are other factors at play – the explosion of the craft beer scene and the growth of local farms fueling the farm-to-fork revolution. “Ten years ago you had a handful of farms offering a minimal offering of produce for chefs to fight over- but now we have somewhere north of 350 sources in surrounding counties, offering not just a phenomenal and vast selection of produce, but also cheeses, meats, eggs, dairy, honey, and even sustainable fresh seafood- you can craft entire menus using locally sourced ingredients.” In fact, the CRVA says, from 2008 to 2016, the Mecklenburg County one percent Food & Beverage tax has increased by $10 million, meaning gross restaurant sales have gone up $1 billion every year in that time.
expand their concepts and create new ones, a lot of firsttime restaurateurs and, of course, a fair amount of regional and national chains wanting to stake their claim in our very popular city.” Grogan adds,
“
At its essence, you see a mixture
of "grit and guts" work ethic coupled with incredible creativity- the result is a very competitive market full of
”
amazing offerings.
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BE ORIGINAL
The Changing landscape of Art
I
n the Middle Ages and in the Renaissance Age works
Today the number of people buying original art is on the
of art were commissioned. That is, they were ordered
increase. As a lover of all things beautiful and original CG
by the person who payed for the work of art, and then
couldn’t be happier with this trend. This is due to an in-
created. This was not exactly artistic freedom.
crease in disposable income, an explosion of art galleries
In the Middle Ages and even for much of the Renais-
on the internet, an understanding of interior design, pop-
sance, the artist was seen as someone who worked with
ular art related television programs and awareness of new
their hands. They were considered skilled laborers, crafts-
artists.
men or artisans. Renaissance artists fought passionately
There is less attraction to spending money on mass pro-
against this. They wanted to be considered innovators.
duced hanging art and a desire to want something unique
During the Renaissance the status of the artist changes
and original.
dramatically. Fast forward centuries later and now we
Charlotte is blessed to have an art treasure that is nes-
have the “art stars” of today, Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons or
tled in a lovely neighborhood in SouthPark which is a place
Pablo Picasso, primarily sold at galleries and brokers, such
all art enthusiasts will admire and feel at ease. As soon
as Sotherby’s, and were unattainable to most.
as you come in the foyer there is a large canvas, flowers,
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and candles to greet
canvas sizes and compositions, especially if you are a new
you and on your left
home owner. Judith says, “I’m a firm believer in taking
you’re met with two
artwork out on a loan before you commit to purchasing it
adjoined rooms cov-
because how something feels in my office is not necessarily
ered with hundreds
how it’s going to feel in yours with your lighting, furniture,
of original paintings.
and wall color.”
This is Judith Weston
Judith represents 22 local and out-of-state painters and
Voglesonger’s home
one Charlotte photographer, Heather Liebler. She recent-
office. You’ve official-
ly added four more artists and test markets guest artists
ly entered Art House
to see if she can sell their work before bringing them on
Charlotte.
board. You’re bound to be drawn to a work whether Larry
This
mother
of
Duke’s stunning Audrey Hepburn, a colorful cow by Tyler
three happily wel-
Helfrich, or the gorgeous florals by Amy Abig. Everything
comes you into her
is contemporary and trendy. The inventory is a wonderful-
home by appoint-
ly organized chaos that is constantly expanding and flour-
ment, 7 days a week, no matter if you just came from the
ishing as the artists drop off new works weekly and clients
gym or have your kids with you. Clients and designers can
are sometimes buying 6 pieces at a time. Therefore, she
get an idea of the art in advance on her website and social
doesn’t consider it a home gallery as she is a consultant and
media and then come in for a consultation or just to scope
dealer of art. The art is displayed for the purpose of find-
it out. Judith wants your experience to be as comfortable
ing what attracts you and introducing you to the talented
and smooth as possible. She will sit down with you to look
artists with hopes you find the right match. If you love a
over pictures of your space, discuss your interests and bud-
piece, but the dimensions wouldn’t fit for your intended
get, and find a piece you love that she can deliver for you
space, she will contact the artist to commission a similar
to try it out. She wants you to experiment with different
one-of-a-kind piece with your specifications. That process
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139
can take 3 to 6 weeks depending on the artist’s schedule.
that made $22,000. After a 3 year break, Judith contact-
In fact, 50% of her business is commission work. She also
ed artists from a list of art she could afford, set up in her
does pop-ups at open houses and parties, and has recently
home, and so began her empire.
partnered with the Frock Shop and Wolfgang Puck.
Social media plays a big role to promote artwork now-
It is important to go with your gut when picking origi-
adays. Judith and her marketing director, Jennifer, post
nal art. Judith says, “They’re afraid they’re going to like
pictures of the art in her home on Facebook and Insta-
something wrong.” Judith’s office is a judgement-free zone
gram. Clients can text Judith about the photos then pick it
and art is not “wrong” if your opinion of it is perfect. That
up and buy it the same day. This change of pace makes it
being said, Judith revealed her ultimate challenge: what
easy for busy clients. Judith also suggests design houses,
happens when a husband and wife can’t agree on a paint-
like Slate Interiors or Cotswold Marketplace, as an alter-
ing? Instead of compromising, she recommends they take
native to expensive galleries or just to get an idea of your
turns picking out a piece, but the other person cannot ab-
budget. That being said, Judith maintains a strong, friend-
solutely hate the piece their partner chose otherwise they
ly relationship with the local galleries in Charlotte and will
will end up with a collection they don’t truly love.
direct a client to them if needed. The majority of the pieces in Art House are less than $2,000. There was an intriguing Lauren Reddick piece for just $250. People are under the assumption that they do not have the financial means to begin a collection or could only buy tiny pieces, when they could be hanging up their first painting right now. Or they are ready to buy, but they didn’t know they had this more laid-back option. There has been a change of mindset where people do not only want original work as investment pieces, but rather work you simply think is beautiful or reminds you of something. You don’t need to have an art history degree to buy art either, but as people are becoming more educated about art, the more they strive to own things that are not mass produced. Judith notes that Charlotte’s art scene is “seriously underrated.” Art House is not Sotheby’s, yet it is a trustworthy and
Judith is reaching out to her own demographic who want affordable, accessible original art. It is refreshing to
professional source composed of carefully curated quality originals.
know that you no longer have to be wealthy or royal to own
The art Judith sells will eventually appreciate in value.
original art. Judith recalls how her parents always had art,
Judith notes, “My goal as I’m bringing emerging artists to
but they were all prints. Original art was not available to
market is that I’m allowing them the opportunity to evolve
the masses while she was growing up. When Art House
and spread their wings and increase their price points as
Charlotte, originally JWV Artists, started in 2009, there
they grow.” Both the clients and the artists benefit from
was nothing like it in Charlotte. After working for an art
this business model.
collector at the Honolulu Museum of Art, Judith wanted to
Judith Weston Voglesonger has made Art House Char-
buy some original work within her limited budget, but did
lotte the ideal venue for original, affordable art in Char-
not know where to find it. Her best friend introduced her
lotte. No need to change out of your yoga pants, go check
to a unrepresented artist and they had a show for her work
it out!
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