Women you must
and do business with
Vol 2
#knowcharlotte
2 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
2019 3
from the
PUBLISHER
Launched in 2017, The KNOW Book + Tribe began as a way to bring more attention to dynamic women doing remarkable things in the Phoenix metro. We knew there were an outstanding number of women impacting the community and making big strides in their industries. Our goal was to get those women out from behind their computer screens and into the public eye. Thus, we created the KNOW Book, a carefully curated publication that would feature vision-led women in a glamorous and authentic style. As the momentum grew and we recognized the need for more, we launched our Tribe around the women featured in our KNOW Book. Our mix & mingles soon ensued and we witnessed incredible things happening. We saw our women doing business with each other, creating friendships, supporting each other, collaborating on projects together, and so much more. What started as a fun project to spotlight women, has turned into a full-blown movement. The KNOW Book + Tribe has expanded beyond its birthplace of Phoenix, Arizona; its aim is to launch in every major city across the United States and Canada.
Sarah Benken FOUNDER AND VISIONARY
4 THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
the
tribe WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
COLLECTION We are a collection of highly successful, authentically driven women. COLLABORATION We collaborate to support one another & build clout that inspires & motivates the advancement for all women. COMMUNITY We support our local & global communities by actively searching for ways to pay it forward. MANTRA
Lift & Rise Nominations for the 2020 KNOW Charlotte open April 2020. Follow KNOW Publications for the latest information. www.theknowtribe.com
@knowtribe
@knowtribecommunity / hello@knowpublications.com 2019 5
DESIGN & LAYOUT: EMMA CATARINO
PHOTOGRAPHY: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY VIBRANT PHOTOGRAPHY
PR / EVENT PLANNING: DEFINITA: PUBLICITY & MARKETING FABULOUSLY CREATED EVENTS
CONTRIBUTORS: SHASSITY STEVENSON TIFFANY DIGGS
AMBASSADORS: ARDEN MCLAUGHLIN CEL THOMPSON-SMART
PUBLISHER: SARAH BENKEN
CONNECT: @KNOWTRIBE @KNOWTRIBECOMMUNITY
SUBSCRIBE: WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM 6 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
table of contents 12 BEAUTY 22 BUSINESS 50 FOOD & BEVERAGE 54 HEALTH & WELLNESS
58 HOME & LIFE 74 MEDIA 78 NON-PROFIT 84 NOTABLE 2019 7
8 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
#bts We snapped hundreds of photos to prepare the KNOW Charlotte Book...and we had a whole lotta fun doing it!
2019 9
AMBASSADOR
Oh, Charlotte, you are truly the Queen City – one full of queens who are willing to check their crowns at the door and be in community with each other. This Book allowed us to get to meet and experience so many incredible women as well as the men who constantly support them. From our scouting event and coffee table talks to wine nights and phone calls, we have met hundreds of incredible women as we put together the second volume of our Charlotte KNOW Book. As you flip through these pages, you’ll meet the most dynamic women in the Charlotte-metro area. Individually they are elected officials and nonprofit leaders, CEOs and rising stars, media mavens and behind-the-scenes beauties and collectively they make up a Tribe of women who believe when we lift each other, we rise together. Our hope for each of our KNOW women is that you’ll understand how valuable you are. You matter. Your work matters. Collaborating and connecting with you matters. Our hope for our readers is you’ll be inspired and encouraged. We hope you see someone in here you’ll want to meet. For our younger readers, we hope you see a Tribe of women you want to emulate. And, we really hope you reach out and connect with these women. They want to hear from you! Charlotte, thank you for being a city where Queens can convene and grow. And KNOW 2019, welcome to a sisterhood like none you’ve experienced.
Arden McLaughlin & Cel Smart 10 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY STYLE CREDIT: BESS YORK AT SLOAN
2019 11
STATISTICS ON WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES women employ more than
9 MILLION people
37%
1.6 trillion 0
10
20
30
OF WOMEN EARN MORE THAN THEIR HUSBANDS
40
50
60
70
80
WOMEN FIRMS GENERATE
IN SALES
more than
OF ALL BUSINESSES ARE OWNED AND OPERATED BY WOMEN
11.3 40% MILLION
SOURCE: AMEX OPEN / WOMENABLE
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firms are owned by women
societe JOIN A TRIBE OF WOMEN COMMITTED TO LEVELING UP IN BUSINESS Societe is a complement to the KNOW Book + Tribe, where women work together to grow their businesses. Open to any businesswoman anywhere! Join Today!
THREE WAYS TO GROW:
rise
Our digital community of like-minded businesswomen filled with tips and trainings, collaboration from members and perks to grow your business. Perfect for the businesswoman looking for connections and digital downloads.
elevate
A 3-month long program built for Rise members. This is for female business owners in growth mode who are ready to work in a small group setting and dive deeper on attainable goals related to Sales, Marketing + Finance.
A CLASS OF LIKE-MINDED BUSINESSWOMEN WHO ARE COMMITTED TO LEVELING UP KNOW Societe is a global community of high-level women ready to engage and grow with you. We help tons of women just like you get the education & results needed to take their business to the next level. Our digital platform makes it easy to stay connected and accountable while receiving access to trainings, hacks, and industry leaders.
propel
A 6-month long program for graduates of the Elevate Program. Propel is for those ready to commit with greater focus on expansion and accountability. This program ends with an in-person retreat in Scottsdale, Arizona.
we promise
1. To align you with motivated women. 2. Provide access to female industry leaders who will educate and inspire. 3. An opportunity for lasting bonds and true connections.
KNOW Mantra: LIFT + RISE ~ when we lift each other, we rise together.
theknowsociete.com/join 2019 13
BEAUTY
BLAKELEY SHEA B. SHEA VANITY
Blakeley’s talent for treating each face as a blank canvas was quickly noticed along with her services and her expertise that have been getting continuous recognition. After being in the Beauty industry for almost 20 years now, Blakeley began realizing that many of her peers and colleagues needed help grooming their eyebrows, so Blakeley made it her mission to perfect her skills in finding the best shape for each person’s unique facial structure and has quickly become one of the best PMU Artist’s in the industry. With her business, “B. Shea Vanity” currently based in Charlotte NC, Blakeley balances clients, photo shoots, celebrity requests, makeup lessons, and charity events, all while being a Mom. Her commitment to continuing her education in the beauty industry goes above and beyond in order to provide you with the best quality of trending and up and coming services available.
@bsheavanity vagaro.com/bsheavanity 704.654.6828 PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
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BEAUTY
JACKIE PAYNTER DRYBAR Jackie Paynter knows a great hair day can take an okay mood to a “let’s take on the world” mood and as the Charlotte-area franchise owner of Drybar, she ensures every woman who walks out her doors is confident and ready to take on the world. After years spent behind the chair at local salons across Charlotte, she found her joy came from providing a meaningful experience with everyone who she cut or colored. Jackie’s entrepreneurial spirit mixed with her desire to bring hope and happiness to everyone led her to purchase the franchise rights to Drybar in the Charlotte market. In May 2018, Jackie opened her first location in SouthPark; and 17 months later, she brought Drybar to the lively South End. As a native Charlottean, she is honored to serve the women of the Queen City and offer job opportunities in her beloved hometown. Jackie lives in Charlotte with her husband Matt and daughters Stella (10) and Sloane (4). PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
@jackiepaynter
6401 Morrison Blvd. Suite 9A, Charlotte
2120 South Blvd. Unit 4, Charlotte 2019 15
BEAUTY
JANNIE SMITH SALON J
Warm and inviting...That’s the feeling you get when you’re greeted at the door of Salon J and Master colorist and stylist Jannie Smith. Sunlight spills through the floor-to-ceiling windows as music plays through the speaker. A delicious candle burning, along with a glass of wine or a good cup of coffee, makes the experience of getting your hair done more like an afternoon with a good friend. Jannie, a 20-year veteran of the beauty industry in Charlotte has created a quaint and comfortable place for her clients or as she likes to call them, her glamour friends, to come and enjoy. The one-on-one experience can range from the simplest of highlights to the most extensive corrective color and cut. Jannie wants her clients to truly enjoy their time in her salon and to look forward to returning.
704.472.4774 Salon J 980.207.0192 Salons by JC Carmel Park salonj.u-craft.net PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
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BEAUTY IONE RUCKER JAMISON & ELLEN RUCKER SELLERS RUCKER ROOTS Ione Rucker Jamison and Ellen Rucker Sellers are sisters and the two youngest children of Dr. Douglas and Ruby Rucker. Ione and Ellen are natives of Lancaster, South Carolina. Ione is a proud alumna of Spelman College and received her master’s degree from Converse College. Ione is the founder of the Rucker Education Scholarship Fund. Ellen was a four year varsity cheerleader at the University of North CarolinaChapel Hill. After college, she attended Life University in Atlanta, GA where she received her Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine. The sisters launched Rucker Roots, a natural hair product company, in June 2014 and the company was featured on their reality TV show, Love Thy Sister on WeTV. The ladies use all natural, vegan ingredients from their father’s garden in South Carolina as inspiration for their hair products. The products have been featured on Good Morning America in 2018 and 2019, and was featured as Robin Roberts’ go to products in InStyle Magazine. Both Ione and Ellen pride themselves on balancing their growing business while also being devoted mothers.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
866.960.9613
ruckerroots@gmail.com
@ruckerroots 2019 17
BEAUTY
Jenny always had an entrepreneurial spirit, whether participating in Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams™ in high school or running a commercial photography firm servicing Fortune 500 companies in her 20’s. After a decade-long health struggle with autoimmune caused hypothyroidism, she turned her entrepreneurial energy and chemistry background to helping those who likewise suffer under the radar. In March 2019, Jenny founded Rose and Azalea, a cosmetics company that inspires women to feel beautiful by improving their health. She strives to impact the beauty industry while supporting others with sensitive skin, allergies, and busy schedules. Her passion shines through in creating safe, nontoxic personal care and beauty products with organic ingredients so women can experience healthy beauty. When Jenny isn’t advocating for the modern women and their families, she can be found empowering the next generations, decorating her home with her favorite colors gold and glitter, and enjoying life with her husband and puppies. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
JENNY MELICK Roses and Azalea rosesandazalea.com
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@rosesandazalea
jenny@rosesandazalea.com
BEAUTY
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
JoBrent Austin-Diehl (known as JBAD to her friends) is a native North Carolinian and East Carolina University graduate. JoBrent, a former Lobbyist turned medical spa entrepreneur, founded and is the co-owner of Charlotte’s premier medical spa, Infinity MedSpa+Wellness located in the heart of SouthPark. Upon turning age 40, she realized her true passion was more in the anit-aging arena and began to assemble an elite team of beauty and wellness experts who offer the very best in non-invasive technology and groundbreaking, medical grade skincare thus helping men and women look and feel their best at every age! JoBrent also takes pride in giving back to the Charlotte community through various charities. Just this year, she competed in Dancing With the Stars for Carolina Breast Friends raising over $77,000 for men and women suffering from breast cancer in the Charlotte area. JoBrent is married to Bill Diehl III, has 2 amazing stepchildren, Kase & Laney and 2 fur babies, Cali and Riley.
JOBRENT AUSTIN-DIEHL Infinity MedSpa + Wellness 704.733.9202
2809 Coltsgate Rd., Suite 100, Charlotte
infinitymedspaandwellness.com
2019 19
BEAUTY
PRITI PATEL LE PETIT SPA
Priti and Le Petit Spa have become the benchmark in Charlotte for exemplary service in helping clients improve and love the skin they live in! By understanding that each of us is beautifully unique, Priti’s individualized services bring the results we all deserve. Born and raised in Montreal, Canada, Priti moved to Charlotte to share her passion and expertise with the Queen City. She launched her 1st location in South Park, and ten years later, she opened her second location in Ballantyne to expand to a broader client base with her talented staff that share the same drive for client service. She recently launched a custom line of products for men, LPS4Men, to make quality skincare available to meet the often-neglected needs of male skin. Le Petit Spa has consistently won Charlotte’s Best Of The Best awards for their waxing, threading, and customized facial services, as well as the Charlotte Elevate award for each of the past ten years.
lepetitspacharlotte.com 980.406.3269 @lepetitspaclt PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
20 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
BEAUTY
NAKEISHA NANCE PREMIER BEAUTY STUDIO LLC
Nakeisha Nance is a native of Charlotte, NC. She is a graduate of West Mecklenburg High, Carolina Beauty College and attended Queens University. Nakeisha began her career as a cosmetologist in 1998. Within a very short period, she was known as one of the city’s top stylists. In the year 2000, she added Professional Make-up Artist to her resume. In 2004 Nakeisha wanted to expand her knowledge and joined a major cosmetic brand for 15 years. Over 19 years, Nakeisha has become a well-known and respected artist. She has her work featured on the cover of Carolina Bride Magazine, in Black Enterprise Magazine, OWN Network TV Show “To Have and To Hold”, R&B Artist Olivia Chisolm “Fearless” music video and works with several top photographers in the area. January 2019 Premier Beauty Studios, LLC was launched. Nakeisha now runs a professional mobile studio that provides a luxury VIP pop-up shop service at your desired location. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
info@premierbeautystudio.com
704.930.3493
@premier_beautystudio 2019 21
BEAUTY
Distinguished as a hair expert and trendsetting stylist, entrepreneur Shassity Stevenson is best known for her expert level articulation of creative vision. While she is most sought-out for her expertise in curly hair and hair extensions, she is also a trusted professional resource through her many digital platforms. During over a 7-year tenure in the Ballantyne area, her role as a multi-cultural salon owner progressed into becoming the powerhouse behind the brand, Shassity Styles. The latest development of the multi-faceted brand includes the recent launch of the Curly Littles Campaign, a movement focused on providing professional support and hands-on learning experiences to parents who struggle with maintaining their kid’s curly hair. This campaign also partners with adoptive and foster parents to boost kid’s self-esteem and provides a judgement free learning experience. Shassity Styles is a progressive and innovative brand, striving to promote the synergy between hair, beauty and lifestyle. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
SHASSITY STEVENSON Shassity Styles shassity.com
22 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
sksbeautydefined@gmail.com
@shassitystyles
BEAUTY TONYA REID T. REID AND COMPANY SALON & SPA hello beaut iful
Our goal is to make your day. Well, technically, we make your hair amazing, we make your skin glow, we make your nails fab, and we make your muscles stop aching – we make your soul smile, and that is what actually makes your day. If that doesn’t tell you enough about our mission to be a bright spot in your life, then our big, lavender house will confirm it. Come visit us at 429 East Blvd and turn any frown upside-down. We can’t wait to meet you. Book online at treidandcompany.com
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
429 East Blvd., Charlotte
704.377.1511
@tredico 2019 23
BUSINESS
ARDEN MCLAUGHLIN DEFINITA: PUBLICITY & MARKETING
Arden McLaughlin created Definita: Publicity & Marketing for the person or company who wants to tell a story effectively and for a specific purpose. A storyteller at heart, Arden lives for the moment when her clients see their product’s in an entirely new light through their work with her. She encourages her clients to dream big while also providing practical day-today tasks to ensure their dreams are met. Arden is the publicist who works alongside her clients – she doesn’t seek her own glory; she seeks the glory of the people she represents. She frames your story and tells it to the audiences who will respond to it. When she isn’t creating magic for her clients, Arden can be found working out, reading, or gabbing with girlfriends somewhere around Charlotte.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATION CREDIT: KENT YOUNGSTROM STUDIO
@arden_mclaughlin 24 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
arden@marketingdefinita.com
arden@theknowtribe.com
BUSINESS
WEWORK CHARLOTTE / ASHLUND DUNAWAY | TEAM WEWORK CHARLOTTE WeWork is changing the way people and companies work with over half a million members worldwide across six continents and 100 of the globe’s fastest growing cities. Spanning one-third of the Fortune 500 companies to grassroot nonprofits, our members are empowering employees, fueling innovation, and uplifting communities. Whether you’re an established enterprise or growing startup, discover WeWork spaces in Charlotte, North Carolina that will inspire your people’s most meaningful and impactful work: The RailYard South End, 128 South Tryon Street, and 615 South College Street. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
WeWork Charlotte: wework.com/l/charlotte
WeWork Private Events: elizabeth.ruth@wework.com 2019 25
BUSINESS
Beth Ann Reisinger may be a corporate recruiting maven by day and a sparkly sorority woman by night. She is driven to bring change through serving others. Whether it’s helping her clients land their candidate or partnering across the board room table, Reisinger brings thought leadership to each and every discussion. Reisinger embodies the definition of Servant Leadership in the philosophical and practical application of each aspect of her life. Identifying women who will make a notable difference in the culture of the workforce is integral to her success. Empowering young women to lift each other up is what drives Reisinger to give of her time and talent for Phi Mu. Reisinger is blessed to work for Bank of America, an employer who supports her passion projects. To say it simply, when we can tie passion and practicality together, that is when we harness our power. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
BETH ANN REISINGER Bank of America | Phi Mu beth.a.reisinger@bofa.com
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beth-reisinger-4001675
@bethr1852
BUSINESS
Briana MacIntyre serves as the CEO of The Logos Group and Co-founder of 33Voices. The Logos Group is a diversely owned company dedicated to simplifying technology, risk, and security. Logos empowers clients to Rise Above Reaction helping them regain control, transform operations and maximize information use. She holds undergrads from UNCC and an MBA from MIT. Her own personal challenges have guided her.. She is a founding board member of the Charlotte expansion of Shelters to Shutters and Co-founder of 33Voices, an evolving non-profit focused on strategies for families in distress. She seeks to lift others up, sharing hers and others voices to provide emotional and financial support to break the cycle of abuse and homelessness forever. “The only way we can make a change is to let the fire burn, let it recreate who we are. Once the flames subside, as we rise above the ashes of what we were, we become who we were meant to be…a voice for someone else under fire” — Briana PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
BRIANA MACINTYRE The Logos Group and 33Voices bmacintyre@logosgrp.com
thelogosgrp.com
@phoenix.33
2019 27
BUSINESS
CAMERON WAGNER GMR MARKETING
Years ago, Cameron Wagner found herself at a race track on a 100-degree day in July and wondered how she managed to find a career that was as fast-paced and fun as the cars speeding around the track. Since then, she has gone on to become Chief Client Officer at GMR Marketing, a global experiential agency that works with some of the world’s top brands on sports, music and lifestyle programs. GMR is in the business of making memories that change how people think, feel and behave. That work has taken Cameron across the globe and she has seen firsthand the power that experiences can have in bringing together people of all cultures and backgrounds. However, while she travels intensively, nothing makes her more proud than to introduce people to her hometown of Charlotte and all that it has to offer. In addition to a business leader, Cameron is also a wife, mom and community supporter.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
1435 West Morehead St., Suite 190, Charlotte 28 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
704.295.6366
cwagner@gmrmarketing.com
BUSINESS
Carla loves connecting with entrepreneurs and learning about innovative ideas in the Queen City. Being a trademark and copyright attorney, she recognizes how hard it is to a build a business. As an integral part of her practice, she uses her legal expertise to federally register brands and content. Her goal is to leave her clients feeling confident, secure and protected. Outside of her legal work, she has a passion for education. As a former Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools teacher, you’ll find her volunteering in our local schools as she currently serves on the Board of Directors for GenOne Charlotte, a non-profit that prepares high achieving students to be the first member of their family to attend college. She also serves as a mentor for two students in the program. At home, she cherishes spending time with her husband and three year old son, awaiting the arrival of their new baby girl. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
CARLA CLEMENTS Wagner Hicks PLLC carla.clements@wagnerhicks.law
704.705.7942
831 East Morehead St., Ste 860, Charlotte
2019 29
BUSINESS
CASSANDRA SHUCK BUSINESS GROWTH STRATEGIST + SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR
On paper, Cassandra Shuck is a business growth strategist helping women around the world create aligned, profitable and scalable businesses. In action, she is a serial entrepreneur. Cassandra is the founder of Tola Marketing + Creative, a full-service digital marketing agency, the co-founder of Milkin’ Cookie, a lactation support cookie company and host of the Align. Profit. Impact. Podcast. Her love and expertise for finding creative and innovative solutions has led her to start and grow eight successful businesses, four of which are still operated by her today, and to support hundreds of entrepreneurs around the globe in growing their own empires in the process. She currently runs all of her businesses from her home just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina, only working about 25 hours a week while raising her 2-year-old daughter Diana.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
hello@cassandrashuck.com 30 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
cassandrashuck.com
@cassandrashuck
BUSINESS
ELIZABETH LEVENTIS ARROW & BOW WEALTH ADVISORS Elizabeth Leventis is the president of Arrow & Bow Wealth Advisors. She co-founded the firm with her husband, Jason, based on three core values: education, simplicity, and collaboration. Throughout her tenure as a wealth advisor, Elizabeth has developed and refined a process that enables clients to have a clear, panoramic view of their financial picture. She combines creative thinking with systematic processes to simplify and cut through the clutter in a highly commoditized industry, delivering high-impact service. As a member of the Million Dollar Round Table and a sought-after financial planner and speaker, Elizabeth empowers women to make sound, informed financial decisions. She enjoys traveling to new places and exploring the great outdoors in her RV with her son, husband, and two dogs. Elizabeth joins the KNOW Book + Tribe to connect with a like-minded group of powerhouse women because she believes in the power of the pack. For her, collaboration is more important than competition. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
ELIZABETH LEVENTIS Arrow & Bow Wealth Advisors arrowbowwealth.com
e.leventis@arrowbowwealth.com
980.201.2873
2019 31
BUSINESS SALES IN A
NEW YORK MINUTE tm
JENNIFER GLUCKOW GITOMER SALES IN A NY MINUTE
After successfully climbing the corporate ladder, working 10-15 hour days, corporate politics and unfulfilled promises caused Jennifer to break physically and mentally, and it was just the break she needed. Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, and having graduated from one of the best business schools in the nation, Jennifer left corporate America to fulfill her entrepreneurial dream. Along the way she became a master salesperson, author, speaker, certified yoga teacher, and sales coach. In her membership group, Passion to Profit, and her elite coaching group, Fast Track to Freedom, Jennifer focuses on confidence, mindset and unparalleled sales training strategies that drive female entrepreneurs business success. Jennifer co-hosts the Sell or Die podcast with her husband Jeffrey, and her own segment, Women Crush Wednesday. She has written a bestselling book entitled Sales in a New York Minute, and spends her downtime with her King Charles Cavaliers, husband, and family.
@jeninanyminute 212.951.1151 jennifergitomer.com PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
32 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
BUSINESS HANNAH KAY HERDLINGER THREAD TALK Throughout her professional career, Hannah Kay Herdlinger has created opportunities for growth and change. From serving as scheduler and mentorship program leader for US Senator Mark Pryor to starting the first political office of Facebook in D.C. to serving as Head of Operations for Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In organization, Hannah Kay has an impressive resume. She is also a domestic violence survivor and advocate for all survivors. Because of her diverse experience and personal passion to end domestic violence, Hannah Kay created Thread Talk, a Certified B Corporation which creates high-quality blankets and other cozy items to fund domestic violence shelters across the country. The mission of Thread Talk is to empower women and support victims of domestic violence across the country. Hannah Kay is a powerful public speaker, a contributor to positive change, and a University of Georgia 40 Under 40 recipient. She’s excited to join the KNOW Tribe and to join forces with the incredible women in Charlotte and beyond.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
hannahkay@threadtalk.com
threadtalk.com
@threadtalkstrong 2019 33
BUSINESS
Jenny Zobel Miller is a traditional marketer by trade. She has worked in corporate America for over 20 years, mostly at The Coca-Cola Company, but when the opportunity arose to own a metal fabrication shop, she couldn’t say no. Jenny grew up with 2 brothers, so competing in a male dominated industry was less of an intimidation and more of a fun challenge. Also, owning a business meant learning so much more than her marketing background provided. She and her husband, Josh, acquired Threadline Products, Inc in 2017. Threadline services large distributors and steel fabricators throughout the Southeast and beyond, providing critical construction elements such as anchor bolts, sag rods, misc. steel and rebar. Threadline’s products can be found on many Charlotte construction sites. While her husband manages the day-to-day operations, Jenny collaborates on company vision, leads marketing and invests a lot of time on how to give back to the Charlotte community through partnerships with organizations like Brookstone Schools. Jenny has lived in Charlotte since she was 12 and loves raising their 3 boys here.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
JENNY ZOBEL MILLER Threadline Products, Inc. threadlineproducts.com
34 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
704.527.9052 x101
jenny@threadlineproducts.com
BUSINESS
JENNY MELROSE
Jenny is a former reading specialist who “retired” from her teaching career when her blogging income far exceeded her salary. Through hard work and dedication, her lifestyle blog, The Melrose Family, became regularly sought out by nationally recognized brands such as Neutrogena, Smuckers, Glad, Costco, Stanley Steamer, Sara Lee and many more. She is a content strategist that helps entrepreneurs better understand their messaging and unique position in the online space. Now, she’s combining her passion for teaching with her extensive experience of creating strategic content for online business owners via JennyMelrose.com and her podcast, Influencer Entrepreneurs with Jenny Melrose, as well as her annual conference in Charlotte, NC for female entrepreneurs.
jenny@jennymelrose.com jennymelrose.com @jenny_melrose PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
2019 35
BUSINESS
KELLY BARNHARDT MATTHEWS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Kelly Barnhardt is Executive Director of the Matthews Chamber of Commerce. Prior work experience involved local government and commercial real estate for over 15 years. Kelly’s active within the community sitting on the Board of the RedBrick Partnership and Matthews Human Services Council. She is on the Matthews Economic Development Advisory Committee, a member of the Matthews Rotary club and a member of CREW Charlotte where she serves on the Authentic Leadership committee. Achievements include being a prior Bizwomen Mentor from 2016 to 2018 and past winner of the Charlotte Business Journals 40 Under 40 in 2015, a 50 Most Influential Women 2017 Honoree and a 2018 Charlotte ATHENA Service Leadership Award nominee. Kelly recently completed her Master’s Degree in Nonprofit Management which will help her start a new nonprofit venture soon. She’s been married for 20 years to her husband Stuart and is busily raising two teenage boys.
barnhardt.kelly@gmail.com kbarnhardt@matthewschamber.org @kellybarn1275 PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
36 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
BUSINESS
KRISTEN DANIELLE RILEY FOUNDER OF SHE E.O.
Kristen Danielle Riley, is the founder of She E.O. (She Empowers Others) A women’s empowerment organization founded in Charlotte NC. She E.O. focuses on the whole woman! From being wives, or moms, or corporate women, we wear many hats! We also believe that our success doesn’t have to come at the expense of our marriage, children or mental and physical health. She E.O. holds an annual brunch called The Movement Brunch where we promote the power of working better together with other women. It’s a movement! By day, Kristen is a Director in the grocery industry, Kristen received the Top women in Grocery award, from Progressive Grocer. Recently, Kristen received the 40 under 40 award from, Winston Salem State University. Kristen is also the Author of a self-help book titled From Journey, Not Arrival. Kristen will be launching her new organization at the beginning of 2020, where she will focus on leading corporate workshops as well as motivational speaking. @she.eoinc sheeobiz@gmail.com sheeopower.com PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
2019 37
BETH KLINEMAN Edtechtrain, LLC edtechtrain.com
KATHERINE KATZ Blush & Glow Beauty Collective blushandglowbeauty.com
CHAMPA THAO Champa Beauty & Co champabeautyco.com
38 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
CHRISSY SANTOS Chrissy’s Custom Creations IG @chrissyscruisincreations
ON the
SHELBY JONES Crafting Clean Living craftingcleanliving.com
DAVITA PARKS Davita J Parks, LLC IG @davitajparks
EMILY ZIMMERMANN Grace Communications gracecommunicationsagency.com
RISE
MELISSA GLENNON The Concierge Teacher conciergeteacher.com
... Women to Watch 2019 39
BUSINESS
LAPRONDA I. SPANN, MS LAIN CONSULTING, LLC
LaPronda I. Spann, MS, serves as Owner and Chief Visionary Architect of Lain Consulting LLC, an award-winning certified Minority and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise dedicated to taking your small business from surviving to thriving. She specializes in diversity certification support services, supplier growth planning, program development, and government contracting. In the last six years, Lain Consulting has secured more than $2 million in grants and contracts from foundations and local and state government for local and regional businesses! LaPronda is excited to join the KNOW Tribe to grow her network with other superstars who are heading in the same direction – upward and onward. She KNOWs growth happens when you get comfortable being uncomfortable in places and with changes that challenge you to be more and do more. She finds comfort in knowing that the KNOW Tribe is a start to this new chapter in her life and business. lainconsultingllc.com 40 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
704.966.7622
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
lapronda@lainconsultingllc.com
BUSINESS
LATOYA EVANS LATOYA EVANS PUBLIC RELATIONS LLC
LaToya Evans is a strategic communications executive who has served as a public relations leader and spokesperson for some of the world’s most notable brands including Cisco, Walmart, Bank of America, IBM, Philips, and Compass Group. In 2017, she founded LaToya Evans Public Relations LLC where she has represented politicians, professional athletes and corporations. LaToya has also served as an adjunct communications professor for the last five years. Active in the community, LaToya was appointed by the Charlotte City Council to the community relations committee; serves on a board for the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media and also sat on a c-suite advisory board for M&F Bank. She’s also worked to fundraise with a number of Charlotte nonprofits and was honored as one of Charlotte’s 50 Most Influential Women (2017) and Charlotte Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 (2018).
latoyasevans.com latoya@latoyasevans.com latoyasevans/ PHOTO CREDIT: BRANDON GRATE
2019 41
BUSINESS
LAURIE TURNER WBE, SBE, DBE HIREQUEST DIRECT Laurie Turner, franchise owner for Hirequest Direct (formerly Trojan Labor) a nationally recognized temporary staffing service providing “the right people at the right time”. In 2012, Laurie became a franchise owner and started with 2 locations and currently owns 9 locations. Laurie’s locations are in Charlotte, Fayetteville, Greensboro, and Wilmington, NC; Myrtle Beach, Florence, and Rock Hill, SC; Roanoke, VA; and Reno, NV. Laurie’s offices service a wide variety of clients including construction, warehousing, janitorial services, special events, and hospitality. Laurie and her team set themselves apart from their competition with their commitment to customer service by building relationships for a lifetime. She is a proud member of NAWIC, ABC and AGC. Laurie resides in Charlotte, NC with her husband Todd. They have 3 children; a daughter who is a graduate of the University of Alabama, a son attending University of Redlands, and a daughter attending University of South Carolina. They enjoy traveling, golfing, and spending time with friends and family.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
laurie.turner@hirequestllc.com 42 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
@hqdirectlala
hirequestllc.com
BUSINESS
Lindsey A. Easterling is a family law attorney with more than a decade of experience in collaborative resolutions, custody agreements, and litigation. Lindsey sits at the helm of Easterling Law, a fully staffed family law firm in the greater Charlotte area that’s been in operation since 2015. The goal at Easterling Law is two-fold: for every family to avoid litigation whenever possible AND to assist each family in settling their case with equal parts empathy and dignity. After experiencing the impact of her parents’ painful and litigious divorce, and now living a successful custody arrangement within her own blended family, Lindsey understands firsthand the emotions associated with family law matters and aims for amicable and equitable resolutions at every turn. Easterling Law staff empathizes with the unique family dynamics of each case knowing that they will require a custom action plan and approach. They help families transition from the title of Husband and Wife while remaining Mom and Dad forever. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
LINDSEY A. EASTERLING Easterling Family Law 2526 Plantation Center Dr., Suite B, Matthews
980.272.1365
easterlingfamilylaw.com
2019 43
BUSINESS
LO MYRICK Are you living intentionally? Are you in alignment with your core values in your personal and professional worlds? How can you maximize time and resources in your business? While these questions are seemingly unconnected, Lo believes their answers serve as a foundation for a well-rounded life and successful business. When we live intentionally and are in alignment with our core values, we’ll be more fulfilled, confident, and productive. Once this baseline is established, we can get really innovative and efficient in our businesses. Her experience with multiple start-ups (including MONAT Global), a Fortune 50 company (GE), and as a trained life coach have given her this unique perspective on how we can live more authentically and grow our bottom line. Lo is a business consultant, speaker, and shares tools to help others grow – her #whiteboardingwithLo sessions are an experience you will never forget! Whether in a professional or personal setting, her key strength is being able to turn problems into solutions and ideas into reality with a strategic, focused plan.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
hifriend@lomyrick.com 44 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
lomyrick.com
@lomyrick
BUSINESS
MEL MILLER AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL & BUSINESS SORORITY
Mel Miller connects women in business through unwavering trust, an open heart, and innate ability to build relationships across industries. She has been in the financial services industry since 1995 and in 2009, joined Ameriprise Financial to provide full service financial planning to her clients. By doing so, she empowers her clients to see their entire picture and not just a piece here and there. As the founder and president of Business Sorority, a women in business networking group, Mel provides space for her members to grow their circle, heart, and mind. Business Sorority is now in its 11th year and recently started a 3rd chapter thanks to Mel’s vision and dedication. Mel shines in all encounters she has; whether it’s leading a family to make sound financial decisions or providing a woman with the camaraderie of likeminded business owners.
mel.miller@ampf.com 704.650.5439 mel.miller@businesssorority.com PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
2019 45
BUSINESS
MCKENZIE CUNNINGHAM SurSHE McKenzie Cunninham is the founder and creator of the first for women, by women subscription box named SurSHE. SurSHE provides women with a dose of encouragement, spark of empowerment, and sprinkle of “I get you” in every subscription box delivered to the doorstep. SurSHE, a play on sursee (an unexpected gift) was created by McKenzie because she wants to lift female entrepreneurs onto a higher platform by showcasing their products through the subscription box, which is tailored around the women receiving it. Southern Hospitality weaves its way into every aspect of SurSHE. From the strength of the creator to the power of the products and services, when you open a SurSHE box you will feel the positive energy of every woman who has contributed to your unexpected gift.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATION CREDIT: LANE-BRADY MANOR
mckenzie@surshe.com 46 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
surshe.com
@shopsurshe
BUSINESS
NICOLE PETERNEL REIN COMMUNICATIONS
Nicole is the CEO of Rein Communications, a strategic public relations agency headquartered in Charlotte. She spent the majority of her career in Chicago, working on both the client and agency side in nearly every major industry. She’s represented wellknown brands including the NFL, Kenmore, McDonald’s, Hewlett-Packard and Red Bull. After relocating to the Queen City and having her second child, Nicole struggled with striking a balance between meeting the responsibilities of a full-time executive and being a mother and wife. She co-founded Rein Communications with the belief that working women should support and empower each other to also pursue their passions. Assembling an all-female team and offering flexible working terms, she enables each of them to live life without apology, while growing in their individual ambitions. Nicole now enjoys both working and all the other things she values: social activism, practicing self-care and her family. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
2108 South Blvd., Suite 211, Charlotte
info@reincommunications.com
704.448.1177 2019 45
BUSINESS
SARAH R. PARIS, CSRIC™, AIF® DHG WEALTH ADVISORS
Sarah R. Paris is a financial advisor, women’s advocate, and volunteer extraordinaire. With 20 years of industry experience, she creates the space for women to understand their financial past, present, and future with a personalized, high-touch approach and a commitment to providing financial clarity and peace of mind. Service is at the heart of what she does, and her promise, along with all of DHG Wealth Advisors, is to serve her clients with passion and care. Sarah does this by combining her deep knowledge of investing with compassion and empathy for women in various stages of life. Sarah’s passion also extends to serving the Charlotte Metro community at large – she currently serves on the boards of Urban Ministry Center and Leadership Charlotte, and she is a member of the Women’s Impact Fund and Women Executives. She is a source of comfort, expertise, and joy for all she serves as she inspires everyone she encounters to grow into their best selves.
sarah.paris@dhgwa.com 828.989.5330 @srp811 PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
46 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
BUSINESS
SHELL RICHARDSON ELEGANT CONNEXIONS
Shell has always had a heart for seeking and creating meaningful connections. Her passion for people has been a constant through her career in hospitality and event planning and through her work in the community as an active member of Know Charlotte and board member of Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont. In 2015, Shell opened her business, Elegant Connexions, an event space and planning business in Concord, N.C. that connected people through hosting meaningful celebrations and meetings. Now she is bringing her passion of networking and connecting people by evolving Elegant Connexions to a business coaching service that creates relationships through community, business networking and growth opportunity to help people realize their dreams.
shell.l.richardson@gmail.com shell@elegantconnexions.com elegantconnexions.com PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
2019 47
BUSINESS
TERRIE REEVES EMPOWER HEALTH AMERICA | TRAIN FOR LIFE® Terrie Reeves is the founder of Empower Health America, a research and evidence-based health advocacy company. She focuses her time and energy on Organization Development Consulting, Public Speaking, Coaching, and facilitates Train For Life® Empowerment Workshops and Retreats to inspire individuals, teams and organizations to THRIVE. To inspire positive change, Terrie created the Train For Life® assessment, a self-reflection tool and the Train For Life Method, a holistic coaching model. Both invite individuals to take inventory of their life and help guide them through the change process. Terrie believes that you can only achieve in your life what you can envision in your mind. Her company’s mission statement reflects the philosophy and intention behind her work, “to transform lives, communities, organizations, and the world by encouraging self-study and empowering mindful action.” “Light up the world, not by doing a job but by making a difference.” – Terrie Elizabeth Reeves PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
treeves@ehamerica.com 48 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
empowerhealthamerica.com
704.200.4459
BUSINESS
TRACI SHANKS WELL WRITTEN GIFTS Traci Shanks would tell you founding Well Written Gifts in 2017 wasn’t the outcome of a lifetime of planning, but rather a result of too little time. After buying six white towels for her niece’s wedding gift because she ran out of time to find and buy something more unique, she decided to build a company to fill that need. Leaning heavily both on graphic design experience and business skills she’d learned while a student at Duke’s Fuqua School of Business, she built a portfolio of designs for personalized engraved cutting boards and barware which she and her husband launched through their online store: Well Written Gifts. Traci set out to create a gift buying experience that made it as easy to purchase a gorgeous personalized gift as it was to buy towels at Target. Two years later, customers in 49 states & 18 countries have worked with WWG to create beautiful and personal gifts for those they care about.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
wellwrittengifts.com
wellwrittengifts.etsy.com
traci@wellwrittengifts.com 2019 49
FOOD & BEVERAGE
CHEF VELVET & TREONA KELTY-JACOBS VELTREE
Chef Velvet is a creative beast and celebrity chef, entrepreneur, author, social justice activist, public speaker, and the co-owner of Veltree, the hottest vegan soul food restaurant in Charlotte. Her distinct vegan soul food style is beloved. With her dozens of television appearances and celebrity clients, Chef Velvet has made a monumental footprint in the vegan and transitioning vegan community. Treona Kelty-Jacobs, is the mastermind behind Chef Velvet. As the wife, manager, and business partner of Chef Velvet, Treona affectionately known as “Tree”, is a force! A powerhouse business manager, entrepreneur, and Veltree co-owner, Tree makes it her goal to impact lives. Tree is founder of Beautiful U Yes U; a DC based non-profit organization that has helped countless youth realize their full potential and inner beauty regardless of life’s circumstances. The two also co-founded “Vegan in the Hood”, a global program that teaches underserved communities across the nation the importance of community gardens, self-sustainability, and life benefits of a healthy diet.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
@veltreevegan 50 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
veltree.com
202.413.4083
FOOD & BEVERAGE
KELLY BROWN / SUNSET SLUSH QUEEN CITY Chances are, if you’ve attend family friendly events around town, you are familiar with Sunset Slush of Charlotte/Queen City and have seen Kelly Brown’s hardworking team serving Italian ice from mobile pushcarts. Charlotteans have Kelly, her sister Blair and parents to thank for launching this Classic Italian Ice Company in the Queen City in 2012. Dessert lovers line up for the refreshing, sweetened frozen dessert, and appreciate its unique flavor and texture and extensive range of flavors.
A mom of three, Kelly is a native Charlottean who recruits her children Walker, Mary Catherine and Hayden to help run this beloved multigenerational local business, which has become a mainstay at ballparks, festivals, school sporting events and parties. Kelly’s energy, enthusiasm and work ethic are contagious and she is regarded as a dynamic entrepreneur. Many of her employees started as fans of Sunset Slush and are now learning from Kelly, the many valuable aspects of running a small business.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
@sunsetslushcharlotte
sunsetslushqc@gmail.com
704.607.4938 2019 51
HEALTH FOOD && BEVERAGE WELLNESS
Stephanie joins KNOW Tribe as the co-owner of Green Brothers Juice Co. A local family owned and operated juice and smoothie bar focused on spreading health and wellness throughout the community. After Stephanie and her husband Josh completed an Ironman triathlon and 3 marathons, they quickly realized the importance of having easy, healthy, and delicious food options right at your fingertips. Green Brothers Juice Co opened its first location in 2014, just 2 weeks before the birth of the first Norris Juice baby. Stephanie is passionate about fitness, community, and health. She is able to pursue this passion daily through her work at Green Brothers. Life is complicated enough. Finding delicious, healthy food shouldn’t be a challenging endeavor. When people feel healthy, they are confident, happy, and capable of accomplishing the extraordinary. Green Brother’s primary mission is to encourage everyone they come in contact with to Live well. Love Others. and Be Excellent. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
STEPHANIE NORRIS Green Brothers Juice Co. stephanie@greenbrothersjuice.com
52 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
@greenbrothersjuice
919.880.1472
FOOD & BEVERAGE
LISA THOMAS PHILLY PRETZEL FACTORY
Lisa Thomas is a North Carolina native, who has traveled the country for over 20 years, working in educational publishing for children. Lisa brings her background in sales together with her husband Dwayne’s experience in the hospitality industry to the Charlotte region with the first and only Philly Pretzel Factory. Fulfilling a long-time dream of starting a family business, Lisa and Dwayne are excited to offer Philly Pretzels to their community. A Northeast favorite, Philly Pretzel Factory is sought after by businesses, festivals, schools, and sports teams for fun and delicious event catering that brings people of all ages together. Lisa and Dwayne live in Union County with their son and 2 doxies. They can often be found on tennis courts and baseball fields, but you’re guaranteed to find them at their new Philly Pretzel Factory... WHERE BETTER GETS MADE.
phillypretzelfactory.com/locations/charlotte/ lisahughesthomas@gmail.com Philly Pretzel Factory Charlotte (Steele Creek)
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
2019 53
HEALTH & WELLNESS
AMITY WHALEN / CAROLINA BARRE & CORE
In 2013 Amity Whalen opened the first location of Carolina Barre in Charlotte, NC. After teaching several formats of fitness at many locations around Charlotte, she felt incredibly grateful to have ONE space where she could teach everything that she loved teaching. No choreography, no scripts. Every class is taught with integrity and the ability to modify at any time to meet the needs of the class. Every guest feels welcome and made a part of the community. It quickly grew into a space that many people call their “happy place�. In 2015, Amity moved to Raleigh with her family and soon after Carolina Barre Raleigh was born. There have been changes. Carolina Barre has moved locations, lost teachers, gained teachers, lost guests, gained guests but CBC never lost what matters most- high quality fitness classes that focus on position, alignment and movement in a welcoming, loving environment where guests are more than just a name on a roster. PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
carolinabarre.com 54 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
704.907.3333
@carolinabarrecharlotte
HEALTH & WELLNESS
JADA BLANCHARD F45 TRAINING LANGTREE LAKE NORMAN Being a part of a competitive dance team as a child, a collegiate athlete and professional cheerleader Jada felt confident and strong. She had been physically active her entire life without even realizing she had been exercising. Jada began to study anatomy and nutrition in college. Nutrition, paired with physical activity, became a lifestyle; a lifestyle she teaches her five children to appreciate today. After college Jada began pursuing money over her passion. Fitness became a hobby, climbing the corporate ladder became a reality. Year after year, sales goals were met, but Jada never felt fulfilled in her role. Hanging up her suit jacket for the last time she laced up her sneakers, and ran toward her dreams. Jada is opening her first F45 Training Franchise in Mooresville, NC. Sharing her passion for fitness, and inspiring others to create healthy habits is her mission. F45 Training is her platform.
129 Mecklynn Rd., Mooresville langtreelakenorman@f45training.com 704.433.9262 PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
2019 55
HEALTH & WELLNESS
HOLLY JOY MCCABE Holly Joy McCabe is a serial entrepreneur who’s built numerous businesses all on her passion for empowering women and holistic health. Holly is a licensed craniosacral therapist, personal trainer, reiki practitioner, holistic life coach and nutritionist. Her personal brand, Spiritual Fit Chick, combines these various modalities and centers on radical self-love to facilitate health, heal trauma and release negative energetic patterns. Her travel company, Zen Finders, takes women on life changing, transformational retreats. Her newest endeavor, Zen In A Bottle is a premium CBD wellness and beauty brand that blends nature and science and is inspired by her obsession with safe beauty alternatives and the medicinal healing power of plants. Having struggled with her own chronic illness, Holly’s ultimate goal is to help women get healthy and strong in all capacities! She is enrolled in a Phd program in Natural Medicine to expand this vision. spiritualfitchick.com zeninabottle.biz @spiritualfitchick PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
56 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
HEALTH & WELLNESS
VERONICA SOUTHERLAND VEE THE NP FLO HYDRATION & WELLNESS Addicted to achievement...You’re in great company, with nationally board certified Family Nurse Practitioner, innovator, and serial entrepreneur Veronica Southerland. Veronica, affectionately known as Vee the NP brings 20 amazing years of experience in healthcare to the modern day concierge wellness paradigm. She is currently the owner of her own private medical practice, Advanced Practice Care in Charlotte. She also created FLO HYDRATION & WELLNESS a concierge solution to IV vitamin hydration therapy in a relaxed atmosphere, the comfort of your home/office, or special event. Selfcare is intentional, and the first step to achieving this balance is from the inside out with good FLO & HYDRATION. Vee has made Charlotte her home for the past 13 years, and has made great connections in the Charlotte area. She has recently represented the nursing profession at the United Nations with other esteemed colleagues, and travels the country helping other healthcare professionals excel in entrepreneurship. Vee is ecstatic about being a member of the KNOW Tribe Charlotte and looks forward to helping everyone’s FLO!
@veethenp @flohydrationandwellness advancedpracticecare.com PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
2019 57
HOME & LIFE AMY SHOOK FAITH FAMILY AND A BIT OF HUMOR BLOG
Amy is the voice behind the Blog, Faith, Family and a bit of humor, a fresh look at a family trying to find the balance in life with working full time, having two kids and being active in their community. Amy started her blog to share ways their family makes slowing down and being intentional with their time, money and relationships. After adding a second child to their family, Amy and her husband were struggling to balance work, kids, family, church and everything else going on in their life. It was stressful and overwhelming, but as a family they made goals to take back their priorities to create a strong family culture that slows down to be intentional with their time and relationships. Follow along for a witty blog about what Amy and her family have found that works for them!
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
@faith.family.and.humor 58 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
faithfamilyandabitofhumor.com
amyshook331@gmail.com
HOME & LIFE
Amy Walsh Stock is the founder of Charlotte Candle Company – an all-natural, soy-wax candle company along the shores of Lake Norman with views of uptown Charlotte. Amy, a long-time communications manager in the NASCAR industry, started making fragrant candles as a hobby, and soon turned it into a fullfledged side hustle. Charlotte Candle Company candles are now sold online and in various retail outlets across the region. Amy enjoys growing the business, teaching candle making classes and attending pop-ups around the greater Charlotte area alongside her husband Travis, who handles the operations side of the candle making. Charlotte Candle Company was selected by Google to represent North Carolina in its 2018 Google Economic Impact Report. They have collaborated with Doc Porters, a local craft spirit distillery, Brooke Knaus a local contemporary artist, and various charitable initiatives such as Catwalk for a Cause, The Kyle Busch Foundation, SherryStrong.org and Madelyn’s Fund.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
AMY WALSH STOCK Charlotte Candle Company charlottecandlecompany@gmail.com
charlottecandlecompany.com
@charlottecandlecompany
2019 59
HOME & LIFE
AUDREY ALEXANDER HOOD AUDREY HOOD ART & INTERIORS
A creative soul who thrives on relationship, Audrey Alexander Hood is an interior designer and artist in Charlotte who works to create luscious and livable spaces for her clients. She is also a mother, a wife, a volunteer, a friend, and a connector. A former teacher, Audrey dove into her artistic side when her father passed away. His legacy inspired her to chase her own dreams. In addition to her work as an interior designer, Audrey launched her own product line in September of 2019 called Atelier Alexander Hood. The line includes accessory items featuring art by Audrey and other local artists including handcrafted candles and pillows to custom fabrics and handbags. All pieces from Atelier Alexander Hood are local crafted and economically sustainable. You can find them on her website or in Charlotte-area stores.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
audrey@audreyhood.com 60 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
@audreyhood
audreyhood.com
HOME & LIFE
MEGHAN HAMPTON & CAT LONG COTTINGHAM CHALK | HAMPTON & LONG TEAM Meghan & Cat share an unparalleled energy, passion and love of people and real estate. They both have similar personalities but bring their own strengths that they share with each client. They work together on every transaction ensuring the client is getting two, full-time, top producing agents instead of one. Their goal is to provide industry knowledge, staying in “The KNOW”, exceeding client expectations and offering a seamless transaction. Their clients become like family so finding them the perfect home is always their priority.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
mhampton@cottinghamchalk.com
They both have a deep connection to the community that goes beyond helping families with their real estate needs. Cat co-founded Baby Bundles in 2009, a non-profit that provides newborn essentials to families in financial need. Meghan co-founded the Cottie & Cake fund in 2010, supporting the Neo-natal Intensive Care unit at Levine Children’s Hospital and Charlotte Fetal Care. Both non-profits were created out of love and in memory of the infants they lost. clong@cottinghamchalk.com
704.364.1700 2019 61
HOME & LIFE
CHRISTINA ROTH VIBRANT PHOTOGRAPHY
Christina Roth is the Owner of Vibrant Photography. Since falling in love with her Pink Polaroid 600 in the late 1980’s, Christina Roth has been determined to photograph as many captivating moments as possible. Her lifelong passion for photography inspired the launch of Vibrant Photography in 2000. She specializes in capturing moments with raw emotion and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Blending fitness and photography, Christina has worked closely with the local CrossFit community, as their premiere fitness photographer. Her passion for the community also inspires her volunteer efforts with local charities across the Carolinas, such as the Charlotte Chapter of Flashes of Hope, Project Momentum Fitness, and the DreamOn3 organization. As a self-proclaimed globetrotter, Christina captures landscape images all around the world in pursuit of her travel goals. When she’s not behind the lens of her favorite camera, she’s likely planning her next adventure or searching for the best coffee in town.
vibrant-photography.com @myvibrantphotos christina.roth@rocketmail.com PHOTO CREDIT: ERIN MAYNARD PHOTOGRAPHY
62 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
HOME & LIFE
CRYSTAL GOVAN MCCORKLE FABULOUSLY CREATED EVENTS
Crystal is the owner, creative, and award winning force behind Fabulously Created Events LLC, a boutique event firm located in the heart of the Queen City. This event firm seeks out client’s looking to host an awe-inspiring and unforgettable event. Crystal has always had a niche for noticing the details. Because of her uniqueness to manage details succinctly while adding her own pop of contrast, she knew early on she had a great passion for planning and organization. Prior to having her own firm, Crystal spent 16 years at Bank of America. Her tenure included various roles, however it was the latter career position as a Business Support Manager planning meetings and events domestically and internationally, that her passion was able to thrive and flourish. Personally, Crystal enjoys spending time with family and friends. She enjoys giving back to the community through philanthropic work with the Junior League of Charlotte.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
fabcreatedevents.com
crystal@fabcreatedevents.com
@fabcreatedevents 2019 63
HOME & LIFE
IVY ROBINSON IVY ROBINSON EVENTS
Ivy Robinson is a cutting-edge event planner and designer with over 20 years of experience in the event industry. Ivy graduated from Meredith College and North Carolina State University. Ivy Robinson Events was founded in 2002 when she discovered her passion for meeting and connecting with clients one-on-one. Ivy has experience with high-style weddings and events. She is sought out across the U.S. by social and corporate clients because of their trust in her talent. Ivy Robinson Events’ clients continue to work with her time and time again because she strives to integrate their individuality with original ideas, making it a one of a kind experience.
ivyrobinson.com @ivyrobinsonevents ivy@ivyrobinson.com PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
64 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
HOME & LIFE
DANIELLE AGNEW DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
This former shift nurse turned creative decided to turn the lemons life gave her into the sweetest lemonade. Practically overnight, she transitioned her hobby into a passionate career, creating Dani Nicole Photography in 2016 as a way to provide for her two children and herself as a newly single mom. Not only did she find stability and independence, but a joy and talent she never knew existed within herself. Now as a published, full-time photographer, Dani specializes in intimate weddings/elopements and the sultriest of boudoir, all created in a moody, unique, and gritty way. Whether she’s on a mountaintop in the fog with a madly in love bride and groom or in her studio helping empower a woman through self-acceptance and confidence, Dani lives and breathes visual storytelling in the rawest forms, and always strives to find beauty in the darkness.
PHOTO CREDIT: ARIEL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY
hello@daninicolephotography.com
daninicolephotography.com
dnpboudoir.com 2019 65
HOME & LIFE
JULIE TACHÉ HOMES WITH CACHET What is better than expert service with a boutique feel? In a time where personal attention seems to be vanishing, when it comes to the biggest investment you will ever make, don’t trust it to a website, trust your local expert. If you are talking real estate, then the woman with “Know” is Julie Taché from Homes With Cachet. After years in broadcasting, Julie started her real estate career in 2003, opening Homes With Cachet in 2007. Their tag line is “Find Your Place”, something she truly believes in. She and her team take the time to listen and get to know her clients to make selling, buying or investing in North and South Carolina an exceptional experience! With many advanced designations including in the top 3% of Realtors nationwide, a multi-year “5 Star” Agent named by Charlotte Magazine, and a Realtor consultant for HGTV, Julie has the knowledge and experience you can trust to put you at ease, so you can LOVE the place you LIVE! PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
704.236.7536 66 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
homeswithcachet.com
julie@julietache.com
HOME & LIFE
KATIE ENRIGHT KRAZY FOR RUGS
In 2017, Katie refreshed her room with a fresh coat of paint after a break up. She was on the hunt for a rug to place at of her bed for her dog, Morrison, to jump onto instead of the hardwood floors. She disliked the rug she eventually purchased and put it up for sale. It was a sign, because she fell in love with an antique Persian rug soon after and purchased it. After finding the rug of her dreams, Katie starting sourcing rugs, and Krazy for Rugs was born. Katie operates Krazy for Rugs fulfilling a passion she never knew she had and loving every moment. When she is not working, Katie enjoys spending time with her family and Morrison, traveling, and educating other type 1 Diabetics.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
@krazyforrugs
krazyforrugs
krazyforrugs.com 2019 67
HOME & LIFE
LISA FOLEY / WESTDALE PROPERTIES
Lisa Foley is a Warrior Motivator who took hardships in her past and empowers those around her to live a better future. As the Regional Director for Westdale Real Estate Investment & Management she is highly regarded as a leader, communicator, and a team player with excellent analytical, problem solving skills. Her ability at identifying talent and building teams as well as creative marketing opportunities engaging social and networking opportunities enable her to create healthy returns for her owners. As a community leader, she helps others take their past hardships and allow them to strengthen and empower them rather than define who they are. As Lisa has learned to embrace every scar, she is now in the process of writing her personal biography: “Lisa’s Love Mark: Embracing your Scars.” Lisa’s greatest achievement is being a mother of two amazing daughters. When not working she can be found spending time with her family and friends.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
@lisaf7466 68 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
@lisatfoley1
lisa.foley@westdale.com
HOME & LIFE
Liz Williamson, Owner of metro’s other woman® of Charlotte and her team of assistants bring the solution to your biggest challenges with all-in-one services for the busy professional and business owners who are on-the-go but wise enough to delegate and share the load. A fully licensed and bonded business and personal assisting firm, metro’s other woman® understands your busy life. Offering an array of services that cover every last one of those demanding details that complicate your life. From errands and laundry to complete overhauls and moves, consider it done. It’s through hustle and heart that her team of assistants ensure every client feels like they can breathe again and have accomplished their to do list. Not only does she empower those that work for metro’s other woman® to live their best life, they help empower their clients to do the same. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
LIZ WILLIAMSON Metro’s Other Woman® charlotte@metrosotherwoman.com
metrosotherwoman.com
704.733.7375
2019 69
HOME & LIFE
MAUREEN ANDERS AND ADRIA RUFF AR WORKSHOP
Maureen Anders and Adria Ruff are the designers behind Anders Ruff®, a company featuring trendy graphic design, a DIY blog and party printables since 2010. With the success of their popular do-it-yourself column, “The Ruff Draft,” their followers were eager for more unique inspirations. In 2016, the duo came out from behind the screen to create their very first brick-andmortar DIY decor studio - this is where AR Workshop® was born. Realizing their audience stretched across the nation and wanted to join in on the AR Workshop® classes, fans asked to open studios in their areas too! With scale in mind, the company developed a franchise concept and just three years later, AR Workshop® is growing by the minute and now has over 140 franchise locations in 31 states!
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
@andersruffworkshop 70 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
arworkshop.com
You Tube “AR Workshop”
HOME & LIFE
Shelly L. Henderson has co-owned Henderson Properties, a successful real estate business, for more than twenty years. She and her husband Phil started their business before there was Google, social media, or mobile phones. While they were starting their business, they started a family. The lessons Shelly learned throughout growing a family and business are invaluable so in 2018, she graciously decided to share them with the world in her book Starting from Scratch. Today, Shelly shares hilarious, and true, stories of life as a business owner, wife, mom, carpool chauffeur, fashionista, life liver, and joy bringer through her podcast, blog, and speaking engagements. As you read and listen, you’ll get tips on how to Start From Scratch every day, why it’s important to have a firm foundation, and why the people around you should be a team.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
SHELLY L. HENDERSON Henderson Properties shellylhenderson.com
hendersonproperties.com
@shellylhenderson
2019 71
HOME & LIFE
TIFFANY DIGGS KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY BALLANTYNE AREA
Tiffany Diggs has a passion for guiding people through the process of buying or selling a home, whether it’s leading first-time home buyers to the perfect place to grow or helping clients sell a home as they look to downsize; and every stage in between. Tiffany has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University, so she knows how to build a rapport and relationship with each person throughout her work with them. She understands she is helping her clients make one of the most important decisions of their lives and feels grateful for each person who entrusts her with this decision. Her passion quickly paid off in the spring of 2014, after her first year as a licensed realtor, when Tiffany sold her first $2.5 million home. And, with each sale, Tiffany donates a portion to different charities. When she isn’t helping clients find their dream home, Tiffany is a dedicated mom to two beautiful children and volunteers with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in memory of her mother.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
tiffanydiggsproperties 72 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
tiffanydiggs@kw.com
704.593.6704
HOME & LIFE
Whitley Stewart is a native of Charlotte, North Carolina and owner of Déplacer Lifestyle Management and Director of Stewart Standouts Foundation Inc. Déplacer Lifestyle Management is a full-service concierge and estate management company that assists its clientele by providing the convenience of efficiency in all facets of life. Déplacer services include national and international relocation services, event planning, home management and staffing. A graduate of Howard University with a degree in Advertising, Whitley is often referred to by loved ones as the most resourceful person he/she knows, with a love of organization and a distinction for providing premiere customer service, Whitley opened Déplacer Lifestyle Management in 2019. In addition to managing Déplacer Lifestyle Management, Whitley founded Stewart Standouts Foundation Inc. (SSF) with her husband Darian Stewart in 2014. SSF Inc. is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide educational initiatives for underserved communities. Whitley currently resides in Charlotte, North Carolina with her husband Darian, and daughter Hayden and their toy poodle Fancy.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
WHITLEY STEWART Déplacer Lifestyle Management whitley@deplacerlifestyle.com
deplacerlifestyle.com
704.561.1502
2019 73
MEDIA
*Alarm clocks rings* – It’s 2 a.m. *Back up “Get out of bed now!” alarms rings* – 2:15 a.m. Time for work! That’s when Christine Sperow starts her day anchoring WBTV News This Morning from 4:30 – 7 a.m. and 12 noon. Christine recently celebrated 10 years waking up viewers in the Charlotte market! Yes, coffee and naps are her jam! Christine has anchored coverage of many breaking news events in Charlotte and interviewed newsmakers, most recently the president of the United States. She is a three-time Emmy winner and received regional awards for her anchoring and reporting. Christine leads the campaign at WBTV to help cancer patients at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, raising a record 1.7 million dollars in 2019. Christine is a member of the Junior League of Charlotte and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. You can also find this girly tomboy rooting for her favorite teams on Saturdays and Sundays.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
CHRISTINE SPEROW WBTV @christineontv
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csperow@wbtv.com
MEDIA
COLLEEN ODEGAARD WCNC
Colleen Odegaard is a long time staple on morning television in Charlotte. She is the host of Charlotte Today, a local lifestyle show that can be seen weekday mornings at 11:00 on WCNC. Colleen loves profiling the people and places that make the Carolinas special. Colleen is also the creator of Curler Confessions, a video series that started on social media but can now be seen weekly on Wake Up Charlotte on WCNC as well. Colleen shares insightful, uplifting and humorous musings on parenting, body image and mindset while wearing velcro rollers in her hair. And just this year, Colleen launched her business, Colleen Odegaard Coaching, Wake Up to Your Life. In her work as a certified life coach, Colleen is helping others to stop living on auto-pilot and instead, create lives full of energy, joy and excitement.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
@colleen_odegaard
colleenodegaard.com
colleen@wakeuptoyourlife.net 2019 75
MEDIA
NAKISHA WASHINGTON / THE PROFASHIONALIST Nakisha Washington is a journalist, ghostwriter, consultant and philanthropist. She is the creator of www.theprofashionalist.com, a lifestyle and career platform for xennial and millennial women. Through her company, The Profashionalist, Nakisha writes grants, award nominations, speeches, bios, and website copy to help entrepreneurs grow their brands. Nakisha is a member of the Women’s Impact Fund, a collective of influential female philanthropists focused on education, health and human services. She was appointed by the mayor to serve on the Water Advisory Board for the Charlotte City Council and is a volunteer with Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools. An advocate for social justice, Nakisha was honored as the 2015 YWCA Emerging Leader. She has been featured as a person to watch by Who’s Who in Black Charlotte. Nakisha’s corporate career spans 12 years as a Learning & Development Consultant. She designs training strategies for multi-billion dollar projects for Fortune 500 companies. She lends her corporate experience as a freelance contributor for publications including Her Agenda, Charlotte Five and QCityMetro.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
theprofashionalist.com 76 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
nakisha@theprofashionalist.com
@iamtheprofashional
MEDIA
THE SCOOP WOMEN SCOOP CHARLOTTE
Charlotte’s first and only digital platform devoted to what local women need to know each and every week. Scoopcharlotte reaches thousands of QC women of all ages with shopping, dining, beauty & lifestyle news ~ over 79,000 social media followers get the scoop. Content created by Charlotte women for Charlotte women, using a unique and effective business marketing model. Whether you’re looking for what to do and where to go each week, or you’re a business wanting to reach Charlotte’s best target audience, scoopcharlotte is for you. @scoopcharlotte
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY LADIES PICTURED L TO R: NICOLE BRANTLEY, EMILY CLINE, ERIN BREEDEN, SUSU BEAR, TAYLOR REESE, JENNIFER BRANHAM, ANGELA WILLIAMS. MISSING ALLISON HANCIN
scoopcharlotte@gmail.com
scoopcharlotte.com 2019 77
NON-PROFIT
ALLISON BIRKMEYER THE QUIET CLOT®
Allison Birkmeyer is the Founder and CEO of The Quiet Clot®, a 501 c (3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide blood clot awareness, prevention, recovery and support to all people. In May 2018, Allison was told “she should not be alive” after being admitted to the ER for difficulty breathing. She was diagnosed with bilateral Pulmonary Embolisms and a 3” Deep Vein Thrombosis in her right calf. Doctors said the cardiovascular strength gained from indoor cycling four days a week after running the Chicago marathon in Oct 2017 SAVED HER LIFE. These life changing events coupled with sharing her story, discovering blood clots do not discriminate and are rarely talked about led Allison to a newfound passion and the start of The Quiet Clot®. It is Allison’s hope that she can use her experience and this platform to positively impact one person’s life.
thequietclot.com @thequietclot allison@thequietclot.com PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
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NON-PROFIT
Anna London is a fearless leader, thought disruptor, community advocate, and c-suite executive, currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer for Charlotte Works. Anna London is also a survivor. Through her innate ability to see good even in the darkest of situations, Anna has taken what should have been a story of destruction and turned it into a story of purpose. Anna’s goal is to empower and enable women and men in all walks of life to believe in the power of more. More days ahead, more joy, more authenticity. She does this through her work at Charlotte Works, Mecklenburg County’s workforce development board that ensures the growing region has a skilled workforce. Anna also does this through her day-to-day life where she serves on the Executive Board of Beauty After the Bars, loves on her best friend’s children, participates in a variety of workouts, and simply shines on all she encounters. PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
ANNA LONDON Charlotte Works 704.274.8016
annaelondon@gmail.com
alondon@charlotteworks.com
2019 79
NON-PROFIT
CHRYSTAL ROSE MENTAL MESSAGE
As a child, Chrystal Rose was a victim of her mother’s mental illness. Between being shuffled to her abusive father’s home and a “therapeutic” boarding school (which has since shut down), Chrystal was constantly made to feel unloved and unwanted. Today, she is a fierce advocate for self-love and mental + physical health. She is dedicated to lifting up others through her variety of business and nonprofit endeavors. Chrystal is the founder of Mental Message, a nonprofit in the mental health space, the owner of Rebellia, a national online boutique for athletic women, the author of the upcoming personal development book, I Won’t Tell You to Take a Bubble Bath and the host of the Rebel Babe Cave podcast. Chrystal is a multifaceted unicorn on a mission to empower women to be the best possible version of themselves through self-love and self-empowerment. She is also a dynamic speaker, nutrition coach and listed as one of Charlotte’s Women to watch in 2019.
mentalmessage.org chrystalrose.com @xtalrose PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
80 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
NON-PROFIT
CEL SMART
Cel Smart is a mom, wife, career woman, fitness professional, and community leader with a passion for helping others. Cel believes her family, strong work ethic, community involvement and philanthropic efforts are what help her push daily to “Be Amazing”, which is her personal mantra for being the best version of herself. This “Be Amazing” mantra birthed several entrepreneurial ventures in 2018 including a fitness showcase, bootcamps, and an apparel line. Cel’s hope is to help women across the world to identify and celebrate what makes them uniquely amazing. Cel has become a community leader through her involvement with the GCAA (Greater Charlotte Apartment Association) and Carolina Breast Friends. She currently holds an Executive Board of Directors position with the GCAA. Cel most recently participated in the 2019 Dancing With The Stars Charlotte benefiting Carolina Breast Friends’ Pink House. She raised over $32,000 and took home the judge’s choice award for her routine.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY STYLE CREDIT: BESS YORK AT SLOAN
704.789.3440
@itscelsmart
itscelsmart@gmail.com 2019 81
NON-PROFIT
Claire Talley and Shana Fox are Founding Members of a multi-million dollar fundraiser, Dancing with the Stars of Charlotte to benefit the Pink House. Claire, Shana, and their partner Felipe Gonzalez Edmiston together own one of the fastest growing fundraisers in Charlotte, DWTS of Charlotte, Inc. Claire, recognizing the value of Carolina Breast Friends programs and survivor mentoring, co-created the DWTS fundraiser. Year round recruiting for the show is her top priority and the backbone of the fundraiser. For Shana, a proud wife of a Radiologist and CMO/Co-Owner of Invision Diagnostics, taking the fundraiser to the next level by media, marketing, and engaging public interest became her passion. The significant amount of donations in which CBF has received has contributed to increasing their programs and outreach significantly. Both women share a passion for giving back to the community and ballroom dancing through the creative design and direction of Felipe.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOOT LOCATION : MIDTOWN BALLROOM
SHANA FOX & CLAIRE TALLEY Dancing with the Stars of Charlotte to benefit the Pink House 704.608.9945
82 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
talleycy@gmail.com
shanamfox@gmail.com
NON-PROFIT Kim Lanphear is the CEO of Apparo, a nonprofit connecting local nonprofits to technology expertise & resources that amplify their impact. Recognized for her skills in change management and cultural leadership, Kim has led Apparo to focus on achieving solution sustainability. Kim has had a diverse career with 20+ years in strategy development, marketing, fundraising, P&L management and Board governance/leadership. Previously, she led domestic and international Citibank business lines, and was the MD of a major Chicago theater company. She is recognized for her ability to build consensus and collaborative partnerships. Kim won the Charlotte Business Journal’s Most Admired CEO award (2018) and the Mecklenburg Times Most Influential Women Award (2016). She holds a BA from Duke University and MBA/Masters of Arts Administration from Southern Methodist University. Kim enjoys musical theater, ballet, jazz and singing. She is married to a technology/ banking expert and is the mother of two wonderful young women.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
KIM LANPHEAR Apparo info@apparo.org
@apparoclt
704.716.7767
2019 83
NON-PROFIT NOTABLE
Susan B. Harden is not a politician. She’s an educator, a doer and a dedicated public servant inspired to use her expertise in education and community engagement, as well as her background in finance and economics, to create real, actionable solutions to the challenges facing Mecklenburg County. A 30-year resident of Charlotte, Susan has dedicated her career to public service. She is an Associate Professor in the College of Education at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte, where she educates the teachers of tomorrow. She directs the college’s Civic Minor in Urban Youth and Communities and its Charlotte Community Scholars Program. She recently received Leadership Charlotte’s “Unsung Hero” award, and is a popular national speaker on social trust, service learning, education and community engagement. Susan has been married to Brian Harden for nearly 25 years and they have two beautiful daughters, at UNC-Chapel Hill and Myers Park High School.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
SUSAN B. HARDEN County Commissioner for District 5 susan@susanbharden.com
84 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
susan.harden@mecklenburgcountync.gov
susanbharden.com
NOTABLE
JUDGE TYYAWDI HANDS MECKLENBURG COUNTY JUDGE Judge Tyyawdi Hands, devoted mother, tireless community servant and experienced judge, is a phenomenal woman. She is a first generation college graduate and accomplished entrepreneur. She clerked on two Supreme Courts and built a thriving law firm before being honored by the Governor’s appointment to the District Court bench. Tyyawdi impressed national audiences in the Oprah Winfrey Network docuseries that she was instrumental in developing: “To Have and to Hold: Charlotte.” She is a sought-after keynote speaker, instructor and panelist who inspires many by sharing her journey of overcoming trauma and breaking down invisible barriers through hard work and perseverance. Tyyawdi launched her most recent effort, “Tyyawdi Talks: Empower, Educate & Transform” to further expand her footprint. Fluent in Spanish, active in the community, and confident, Tyyawdi unapologetically shows us that you can have it all—demanding career, television personality, and loving mother to her two sons.
tyyawdi.com 704.851.1854 PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
2019 85
BRING
TO YOUR CITY Featuring women you should KNOW and do business with
The KNOW Book + Tribe We are searching for influencers, tastemakers, and fellow dynamic women that are wellconnected, savvy, in tune with community, and believe in our mission to lift & rise women. If this is you, become a KNOW Ambassador! Connect with us at KNOW Publications to find out how to bring the KNOW Book + Tribe to your City!
For more information: hello@knowpublications.com
86 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
NAME
index BUSINESS
CATEGORY
PAGE
B. Shea Vanity
BEAUTY
12
JACKIE PAYNTER
DryBar
BEAUTY
13
JANNIE SMITH
Salon J
BEAUTY
14
IONE JAMISON AND ELLEN SELLERS
Rucker Roots
BEAUTY
15
BLAKELEY SHEA
JENNY MELICK
Roses and Azalea
BEAUTY
16
JOBRENT AUSTIN-DEIHL
Infinity MedSpa + Wellness
BEAUTY
17
NAKEISHA NANCE
Premier Beauty Studio
BEAUTY
19
PRITI PATEL
Le Petit Spa
BEAUTY
18
SHASSITY STEVENSON
Shassity Styles
BEAUTY
20
TONYA REID
T. Reid and Company Salon & Spa
BEAUTY
21
ARDEN MCLAUGHLIN
Definita: Publicity & Marketing
BUSINESS
22
ASHLUND DUNAWAY
WeWork
BUSINESS
23
BETH ANN REISINGER
Bank of America & Phi Mu
BUSINESS
24
BRIANA MACINTRYE
The Logos Group
BUSINESS
25
CAMERON WAGNER
GMR Marketing
BUSINESS
26
CARLA CLEMENTS
Wagner Hicks PLLC
BUSINESS
27
CASSANDRA SHUCK
Cassandra Shuck
BUSINESS
28
ELIZABETH LEVENTIS
Arrow & Bow Wealth Advisors
BUSINESS
29
HANNAH KAY HERDLINGER
Thread Talk, LLC
BUSINESS
31
JENNIFER GLUCKOW GITOMER
Sales in a NY Minute
BUSINESS
30
BUSINESS
33
JENNY MELROSE JENNY ZOBEL MILLER
Threadline Products, Inc.
BUSINESS
32
KELLY BARNHARDT
Matthews Chamber of Commerce
BUSINESS
34
KRISTEN DANIELLE RILEY
Founder of She E.O.
BUSINESS
35
LAPRONDA SPANN
Lain Consulting LLC
BUSINESS
38
LATOYA S. EVANS
LaToya Evans Public Relations LLC
BUSINESS
39
LAURIE MARTIN TURNER
Hire Quest Direct
BUSINESS
40
LINDSEY EASTERLING
Easterling Family Law
BUSINESS
41
BUSINESS
42
LO MYRICK MCKENZIE CUNNINGHAM
SurSHE
BUSINESS
44
MEL MILLER
Ameriprise Financial & Business Sorority
BUSINESS
43
NICOLE PETERNEL
Rein Communications
BUSINESS
45
SARAH R. PARIS
DHG Wealth Advisors
BUSINESS
46
SHELL RICHARDSON
Elegant Connexions
BUSINESS
47
TERRIE REEVES
Empower Health America & Train For Life
BUSINESS
48
TRACI SHANKS
Well Written Gifts
BUSINESS
49
2019 87
NAME
BUSINESS
CATEGORY
PAGE
VELVET AND TREONA KELTY
VelTree
FOOD & BEVERAGE
50
KELLY BROWN
Sunset Slush Queen City
FOOD & BEVERAGE
51
LISA THOMAS
Philly Pretzel Factory
FOOD & BEVERAGE
53
STEPHANIE NORRIS
Green Brothers Juice Co.
FOOD & BEVERAGE
52
AMITY WHALEN
Carolina Barre & Core
HEALTH & WELLNESS
54
HOLLY JOY MCCABE
My Kaizen Concepts
HEALTH & WELLNESS
56
JADA BLANCHARD
F45 Training Langtree Lake Norman
HEALTH & WELLNESS
55
VERONICA SOUTHERLAND
"Vee the NP" Flo Hydration & Wellness
HEALTH & WELLNESS
57
AMY SHOOK
Faith Family and a bit of Humor Blog
HOME & LIFE
58
AMY WALSH STOCK
Charlotte Candle Company
HOME & LIFE
59
AUDREY ALEXANDER HOOD
Audrey Hood Art & Interiors
HOME & LIFE
60
CAT LONG & MEGHAN HAMPTON
Cottingham Chalk
HOME & LIFE
61
CHRISTINA ROTH
Vibrant Photography
HOME & LIFE
62
CRYSTAL GOVAN MCCORKLE
Fabulously Created Events
HOME & LIFE
63
DANI AGNEW
Dani Nicole Photgraphy
HOME & LIFE
65
IVY ROBINSON
Ivy Robinson Events
HOME & LIFE
64
JULIE TACHE
Homes With Cachet
HOME & LIFE
66
KATIE ENRIGHT
Krazy for Rugs
HOME & LIFE
67
LISA FOLEY
Westdale Properties
HOME & LIFE
68
LIZ WILLIAMSON
Metro's Other Woman
HOME & LIFE
69
MAUREEN ANDERS AND ADRIA RUFF
AR Workshop
HOME & LIFE
70
SHELLY L. HENDERSON
Henderson Properties
HOME & LIFE
71
TIFFANY DIGGS
Keller Williams Realty Ballantyne Area
HOME & LIFE
72
WHITLEY STEWART
Déplacer Lifestyle Management
HOME & LIFE
73
CHRISTINE SPEROW
WBTV
MEDIA
74
COLLEEN ODEGAARD
WCNC
MEDIA
75
NAKISHA WASHINGTON
The Profashionalist
MEDIA
76
SUSU BEAR
Scoop Charlotte
MEDIA
77
ALLISON BIRKMEYER
The Quiet Clot
NONPROFIT
78
ANNA LONDON
Charlotte Works
NONPROFIT
79
NONPROFIT
81
CHRYSTAL ROSE
Mental Message
NONPROFIT
80
CLAIRE TALLEY & SHANA FOX
Dancing with the Stars of Charlotte to Benefit Pink House
NONPROFIT
82
KIM LARPHEAR
Apparo
NONPROFIT
83
SUSAN HARDEN
County Commissioner
NOTABLE
84
JUDGE TYYAWDI HANDS
Mecklenburg County Judge
NOTABLE
85
CEL THOMPSON
88 WWW.THEKNOWTRIBE.COM THEKNOWTRIBE.COM
2019 KNOW CHARLOTTE BOOK + TRIBE COMMUNITY PARTNERS PHILLY PRETZEL FACTORY
WELL WRITTEN GIFTS
DRYBAR
VELTREE
INFINITY MEDSPA + WELLNESS
FABULOUSLY CREATED EVENTS
HENDERSON PROPERTIES
WEWORK
AUDREY HOOD INTERIORS
DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
ARROW & BOW WEALTH ADVISORS
DEFINITA: PUBLICITY & MARKETING
LE PETIT SPA
METRO’S OTHER WOMAN
SUNSET SLUSH QC
GREEN BROTHERS
HIRE QUEST DIRECT
2019 89
KNOW Charlotte is an annual publication that features dynamic women throughout Charlotte in virtually every industry. Every woman featured in KNOW Charlotte has been vetted through peer-review. Because our mission is to showcase the best and brightest, the only way one can claim her spot is through nomination from someone in the KNOW book. The women featured are a compilation of proven leaders, high producers, and rising stars. Those published in KNOW Charlotte are also considered trendsetters, influencers, and women to watch. KNOW Charlotte is published annually and distributed to affluent decision makers through social and networking events and partnering businesses. While deemed the new who’s who, KNOW Charlotte also delivers readers a vetted list of local female-run businesses. Simply open the KNOW Book and find the next local woman-led business you can support with goods and services you need now!
KNOW Charlotte is produced by Know Tribe, LLC. and published annually. The women featured in this issue have been vetted by their peers and are known leaders in their industry. For consideration in an upcoming volume of KNOW, go to www.knowpublications.com.
BEAUTY | BUSINESS | FASHION | FOOD & BEVERAGE | HEALTH & WELLNESS HOME & LIFE |MEDIA | NON-PROFIT | NOTABLE Bring the KNOW book to your city! Š2019 The Know Tribe, LLC., all rights reserved.
Hello@TheKnowTribe.com | www.KnowPublications.com 2019 90