LIFESTYLE
209 Northgate Boulevard Indian Trail, NC 28079 864-581-6617
Dwayne.Heigh@TeamEsplanade.com
Megan.Michaux@TeamEsplanade.com
Letter From the Lifestyle Team
MEGAN MICHAUX YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER
Happy New Year!
As we step into a brand-new year, I want to take a moment to wish you all health, happiness, and prosperity in 2025. Winter is in full swing, and the crisp air and cozy moments remind us of the beauty of this season.
The start of a new year is always filled with excitement and promise, and I’m thrilled to see what 2025 will bring for our community. We are already working on fresh events and activities designed to bring us all together, spark new interests, and create even more opportunities for connection and fun. If you have ideas or suggestions, I’d love to hear them—this is your community, and your input is always welcome.
As we approach February, the month of love, we have some delightful events planned to celebrate. Whether it’s enjoying a fun evening with neighbors or sharing special moments with loved ones, February promises to be filled with joy and heartwarming connections. Stay tuned for details about our exciting lineup!
Thank you for making this community such a special place, and I look forward to all the wonderful moments we’ll share in the year ahead.
Furry Friends Meet Murphy
LOVED BY MARY LOU & MARK MCGINN
Tell us a little about Murphy.
He is 7 years old and very handsome, and he love treats. He especially loves meeting new people. His parents think he is so cute and lovable.
What is his favorite activity?
Murphy loves to run zoomies in the backyard as well as taking long walks with his parents. He also loves taking long naps every day.
What is his favorite toy?
While he has a lot of toys, Murphy’s favorite is his stuffed alligator toy that he plays with every day.
What does he like to eat?
Anything...especially dog treats!
WANT TO FEATURE YOUR PET?
Contact your Lifestyle Manager to be featured in the next edition of the Lifestyle Magazine. Answer a few questions about your furry, feathery, or scaly friend and share a couple pictures.
Mark & Mary Lou McGinn
The Members of our community are truly what make this a wonderful place to live. In each edition, we will spotlight a Member, couple or family to showcase the amazing people that call our community home. If you would like to be featured or want to nominate another Member, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.
We made the move to North Carolina, along with our golden retriever, Murphy, this past August, from Livonia, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. Mark is an Air Force veteran and a retired Wayne County Sheriff Deputy. I previously worked for Crypton, which was based out of High Point, North Carolina. I fell in love with North Carolina back then when I came to visit the factory. I eventually worked for DDI as an HR consultant and retired several years ago.
We both enjoy traveling, reading, cooking and walking with Murphy. Our daughter lives in Manhattan, New York and son and daughter-inlaw, who recently got married, live in Asheville.
While we miss our family and friends back in Michigan, we are enjoying making new friendships here. We truly enjoy the social activities that Esplanade has to offer.
New Year’s Brunch
11:30 A.M. THE VENUE January 1
It’s a brand-new year and that’s cause for celebration! Join your neighbors at The Venue to enjoy a midday brunch! Bring your favorite brunch dish to share with your neighbors. Let your Lifestyle Manager know what you plan on bringing by sending her an email or signing up at the front desk of The Venue.
Valentine’s Day Social
6 P.M. THE VENUE February 12
Join us for a heartwarming Valentine’s Day social with neighbors! It’s a wonderful opportunity to spread some love, enjoy sweet treats, and connect with friends in the community. We will also be playing Love Songs Bingo! We look forward to celebrating the season of love together with great company and festive fun!
Interest Groups & Social Clubs
Doing more of what makes us happy is called the key to life by many. Share your passion and take the first step by attending or creating a club/group today.
Meet fellow Members with similar interests by creating or joining an interest group or club! Your Lifestyle Manager will assist in coordinating when and where is available for your club or interest group to meet at the Sales Gallery. All groups and clubs must be open to any Member of the community who is interested in joining. To receive an application or for more information about creating a club or interest group, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. Check out the current clubs below!
Current Clubs &
Groups
BOOK CLUB
Tuesdays, January 21 & February 18 (Third Tuesday) | 2 p.m. Gathering Room
Join the Book Club to discuss each month’s assigned book led by Teresa Cole. Books chosen are available on Kindle, books.com, Barnes and Noble, Amazon, or anywhere books are sold. To learn more or to join, please contact Teresa at cole3761@bellsouth.net.
BUNCO CLUB
Mondays, January 13 & February 10 | 6:30 p.m. Gathering Room
Gather with your neighbors for a lively evening of Bunco! Join our friendly group where everyone brings their favorite snacks and drinks to share. Just remember, for safety, no glass is allowed in the Venue. Roll the dice, enjoy good company, and create memories with your community. Please text the group leader, Judy, if you have any questions at 412-952-1125.
CRAFT NORTHGATE
Thursday, January 23rd | 10:30 a.m. Gathering Room
Kick off the new year with creativity and fun! Join us for a craft session making a beautiful mason jar or wine bottle décor to brighten your home. Bring your own mason jar or empty wine bottle, and we’ll provide the supplies and inspiration! Let’s get crafty together!
KNIGHTS OF NORTHGATE BREAKFAST
Tuesdays, January 14 & February 11 | 9 a.m.
The Americana Restaurant
Calling all Esplanade at Northgate men! Join your neighbors at The Americana Restaurant for some great food and great conversation. See event on Member website for Club Leader details to register.
THE LADIES OF NORTHGATE
Thursday, January 9 | 1 p.m.
The Fresh Chef
Join us for a delightful lunch at The Fresh Chef! This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy delicious food and great conversation with fellow Members. Seats are limited to 15 Members, so be sure to reserve your spot early!
High Tea
Saturday, February 22 | 2 - 4 p.m.
Gather with friends for an elegant afternoon of tea, treats, and great company. Enjoy the charm of a traditional high tea experience, perfect for connecting and relaxing together. More details coming soon—stay tuned! You won’t want to miss this special event.
MAHJONG
First, Third & Last Monday | 6:30 p.m. Gathering Room
Mahjong is all the rave! As you learn the game and think about how you play and the choices you make, it’s important to remember a couple of points. In the long term, it’s a game of skill. In the short term, luck is a significant factor. With that in mind, this introduction is intended to get you started off and winning games in no time. Contact Rosalind Rokita at roz.rokita@frontier.com for more information.
VETERANS GROUP COFFEE HOUSE SOCIAL
Thursdays, January 30 & February 27 | 9 - 11 a.m.
Waxhaw Baptist Church | 8213 Old Waxhaw Monroe Road
Veterans are invited to join Group Leader David Hiza for an opportunity to make new friends, participate in raffle prize drawings, access resources, and enjoy the company of fellow veteran Members. Contact David at 704-562-6946 to register and arrange carpooling.
Exclusive Concierge Offerings
Part of the Esplanade Lifestyle is rolling out the red carpet and giving our Members VIP access to exclusive offers and services! We are excited to build and foster relationships with local organizations and businesses to offer special rates for our community. If you know of one that would like to partner with Esplanade at Northgate, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.
HOME SERVICES
HYDROSHIELD
ECO-FRIENDLY COATINGS
Hydroshield offers innovative surface protection that takes highmaintenance surfaces in home and transforms them from good to amazing. Their customers receive peace of mind that their surfaces will be easy-to-clean, stain resistant, and guaranteed to stay looking new. Call Noel and Carmen Torres to schedule an appointment for your free consultation. 704-909-9289
QUANTUM SECURITY AND INNOVATIONS
Esplanade Members can choose from three EXCLUSIVE packages: Sonos Home Theater Package, Sonos Package, or Alula Security Package. Members who purchase an exclusive package will also receive a 10% discount on any additional purchase. To view QSI’s state-of-theart systems, visit the Model Homes or stop by the Sales Gallery for a brochure detailing these packages. 704-534-2468
THE TROON CARD
As a benefit of living in Esplanade, current Members receive 25% off standard Troon Card prices. It’s the ultimate way for golfers to experience the World of Troon at the best rates. More than 150 courses are participating in the program. Members can reserve tee times within threedays of their desired date of play and enjoy savings up to 50% off golf fees. Choose from state, region-specific, or national Troon Cards to unlock preferred rates at more than 150 golf courses worldwide. For a complete list of benefits, courses and rates, and to purchase your Troon Card, visit troon. com/product/troon-card-esplanade.
WINDOW COVERINGS
CAROLINA SHUTTERS & BLINDS
Esplanade Members can choose from exclusive package discounts. Contact Nicole Evans-Lane for a free design consultation. When contacting Nicole, Members are asked to supply the offer code: AFFINITY 303. 704-840-8000 nicole@csandb.us carolinashutterandblinds.com
DRY CLEANING
COLLINS CLEANERS VALET SERVICE
Members receive FREE pickup and delivery service directly to their door. Services include dry cleaning, linens, laundry, alterations, shoes, and household items. Stop by the Sales Gallery for the sign-up sheet with the schedule and pricing list or sign up on their website. 704-398-1525 collinscleaners.com
PET SERVICES
CAMP BOW WOW
10% off all services (including grooming) and 5% off all products. Members are given the Wag Bag when they go under contract. 704-708-9663 campbowwow.com/matthews
HOUNDS TOWN USA
10% off Weekday Daycare, 20% off Saturday Daycare, 50% off first bath. Valid at the Indian Trail location only. 704-218-2100 houndstownusa.com
Recent Events
Cooking & Cocktail Series THE WORLD OF LAMB
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this culinary event with the talented Patrick Scully. It was an remarkable evening filled with delicious lamb-inspired dishes, perfectly paired cocktails, and great company. We hope you left inspired to create these flavors at home!
Holiday Martini TASTING
This was a wonderful celebration of the season, featuring festive drinks such as the Santa Spiced Martini, Cranberry Sauce Martini, and Winter Wonderland. A huge thank you to Member, Susan Arcuri for her incredible coordination and execution of this event!
Oktoberfest & Halloween PARTY
This party was a smashing success, bringing neighbors together for an enchanting evening of festive fun and community spirit. The atmosphere was lively with creative costumes, delicious Oktoberfestinspired fare, and plenty of spooky treats to go around.
Recent Events
Pickled Pink PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
Our first annual Pickled Pink event was a resounding success, bringing together our community in support of breast cancer awareness. It was a heartfelt evening filled with meaningful connections, education, and a shared commitment to the cause. A special thank you to everyone who generously donated to The Pink House. Your support will make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer. We are so grateful for the incredible turnout and look forward to making this an annual tradition!
Wine Around the World: ARGENTINA
Guests enjoyed a curated selection of Argentine wines, paired with delicious bites that perfectly complemented the unique flavors of each pour. The evening was a fantastic opportunity to explore Argentina’s wine culture, learn from experts, and indulge in exceptional tastes from this renowned wine region. Thank you to all who joined us!
Southern Grace DISTILLERY TOUR
The unique experience began with a tour of the historic prisonturned-distillery, where Members learned about the art of crafting small-batch whiskey. The highlight was the tasting room, where they savored the rich, smooth flavors of bourbon and rye, appreciating the craftsmanship behind every sip.
Thank you to everyone who participated in our recent blood drive in support of OneBlood! Thanks to your generosity, we were able to make a meaningful impact and help save lives.
OneBlood BLOOD DRIVE
Upcoming Events
All activities and events are subject to change. For full details, please visit EsplanadeNorthgateLifestyle.com/events.
NEW YEAR’S BRUNCH
Wednesday, January 1 | 11:30 a.m.
The Venue
Join fellow Members to enjoy a midday brunch! Bring your favorite brunch dish to share with your neighbors. Let your Lifestyle Manager know what you plan on bringing by sending Megan an email or signing up at the front desk of The Venue.
YAPPY HOUR
Thursdays, January 2 & February 6 | 2 - 3 p.m.
Bark Park
Gather with your furry friends for a dogtastic social event. It is a playdate for both pets and humans! Feel free to bring your favorite beverages to share and enjoy with fellow attendees.
FIRST AID, CPR & AED TRAINING
Thursday, January 16 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m
The Venue | $55 Per Member
We’re excited to announce our very first CPR, First Aid and AED Certification Class! Join us to learn essential life-saving skills in a supportive, hands-on environment. Seats limited to 15 Members. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and be prepared to make a difference in emergencies. Certification cards will be provided by Heart Saver Institute within 48-72 hours after completing the class. Reserve your spot today and take a step toward empowering yourself and your community!
NATIONAL BAGEL DAY
Wednesday, January 15 | 10:30 a.m.
The Venue
Celebrate National Bagel Day with a quick stop at The Venue! Grab a delicious bagel to-go from Panera and kickstart your day with a tasty treat. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavor of the day, no matter how busy you are.
WATCH PARTY FOR THE BIG GAME
Sunday, February 9 | 7 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room | $5 Per Member
ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?! Join us for a fun and exciting football watch party for the Big Game! The Lifestyle team will be bringing delicious wings to keep everyone fueled, and all you need to do is bring your favorite beverage. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy the game, tasty food, and great company.
ONEBLOOD – BLOOD DRIVE
Saturday, February 1 | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
The Venue
Esplanade at Northgate is excited to announce a blood drive donation event. Building on the success of the last blood drive, which saw a great turnout, this event aims to collect even more pints of blood to support local hospitals and save lives. Members are encouraged to participate, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and engage with neighbors in this life-saving endeavor. Together, let’s make a difference and show the power of community spirit! All donors will receive a OneBlood T-shirt and a $20 e-gift card.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH TRIVIA NIGHT
Wednesday, February 5 | 5:30 p.m.
The Venue
Join us in February for a special Trivia Night celebrating Black History Month! Test your knowledge on important figures, events, and cultural contributions that have shaped history. It’s an evening of learning, fun, and community as we honor the achievements and impact of Black history.
Upcoming Events
All activities and events are subject to change. For full details, please visit EsplanadeNorthgateLifestyle.com/events.
WINE AROUND THE WORLD
Friday, January 10 (Chile) & Sunday, February 2 (New Zealand)
The Venue
Are you a wine enthusiast or simply curious to explore new flavors? We’ll embark on a global journey, tasting wines from different countries, learning about their unique histories, and enjoying good conversation. It’s the perfect way to connect with neighbors and discover new favorites. Let’s raise our glasses and explore the world!
Monthly Member Meetings
ESPLANADE 101
Wednesdays, January 22 & February 19
10:30 a.m. | Gathering Room
New Members can meet with the CAM and Lifestyle Manager to briefly discuss HOA and Lifestyle topics outlined in your Member Handbook. Come with your questions!
VALENTINE’S DAY SOCIAL
Wednesday, February 12 | 6 p.m.
The Venue
Join us for a heartwarming Valentine’s Day social with neighbors! It’s a wonderful opportunity to spread some love, enjoy sweet treats, and connect with friends in the community. We will also be playing Love Songs Bingo! We look forward to celebrating the season of love together with great company and festive fun!
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Mondays, January 29 & February 26 10:30 a.m. | Gathering Room
Meet with your Community Association Manager in a relaxed and social setting to discuss the latest news surrounding the neighborhood.
For the Love of Birds
Look for Birds in Winter
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Wednesdays, January 15 & February 12 10:30 a.m. | Gathering Room
Join your Lifestyle Manager for a relaxing and informative meeting. Find out what’s happening on the social scene. Bring your questions and suggestions.
Winter is a great time to look for birds! You will see birds that live where you live year-round and other species that move in temporarily (migrate) from other places. Bird Watching is easy, fun to do alone, or with others, and can be done anywhere you find birds. And, birds are everywhere! Plus, you can help promote greater conservation by joining the Great Backyard Bird Count February 14–17, 2025. Learn more at thegreenhour.org/ activity/for-the-love-of-birds
Simple Strategies for Building Lasting Fitness Habits
As we welcome the new year, it is the perfect time to focus on health and fitness goals that are realistic and rewarding. The following tips are ways you can make fitness a natural and enjoyable part of your lifestyle in 2025.
1. UNDERSTAND YOUR WHY
Your “why” can be a powerful motivator. Why do you want to form a new exercise habit?
2. START SMALL WITH MICRO HABITS
Instead of overhauling your routine, start with small, manageable goals that build momentum. For example, aim for a 10-minute walk every morning or a few bodyweight exercises before bed. These small actions make it easier to stay consistent and build on your progress over time.
3. CONSISTENCY OVER INTENSITY
The key to lasting fitness isn’t intense workouts but rather is consistent activity. Aim for shorter, more frequent workouts rather than long, intense sessions. Even three 20-minute sessions per week can make a big difference.
4. CHOOSE WORKOUTS YOU ENJOY
Explore different types of exercise to find what you enjoy most, whether it’s yoga, strength training, or swimming. Having fun keeps you motivated, making fitness feel like a treat rather than a task.
5. TRACK PROGRESS IN NEW WAYS
Traditional measurements like weight aren’t the only indicators of progress. Track how your energy levels, mood, or endurance improve. This holistic view can be more motivating and rewarding.
6. FOCUS ON RECOVERY AND REST
Rest is just as essential as activity. Make sure to prioritize sleep and add stretching or light yoga into your routine to support muscle recovery and prevent burnout.
MAKE 2025 YOUR HEALTHIEST YEAR YET!
Finding the motivation, starting small with micro habits and setting realistic goals, as well as focusing on consistency and enjoying the process are all keys to making fitness sustainable. Here’s to a healthy, active start to the new year!
Around Town
QUEENS FEAST – CHARLOTTE RESTAURANT WEEK
January 17 - 26
Charlotte Area
Explore new dining destinations and rediscover your favorite spots for 10 days every January and July, as more than 100 of the best restaurants in multiple counties around the metro Charlotte area offer three courses at dinner for a special prix fixe price ($30, $35, $40, $45, or $50 per person, depending on the restaurant, not including tax and gratuity). Reservations are recommended. Take a mouthwatering tour through the participating restaurants’ prix fixe menus, and book your tables today. It’s the best of Charlotte dining for a deal! For more information, visit charlotterestaurantweek.iheart.com
CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY
February 21 - March 2
Matthews Playhouse
Embark on an enchanting journey through Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s novel, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory! Audiences will be captivated as Charlie Bucket and his friends venture into the
whimsical world of Willy Wonka’s iconic Chocolate Factory. Through vibrant characters and stunning visuals, this production celebrates teamwork, self-confidence, and the joy of understanding others. This delectable chocolate-candy fantasy promises to be delightful fun for all! A Musical in two acts with an approximate run time of two hours and 15 minutes. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.matthewsplayhouse.com/charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory.
SIP Wine Club: Coming Soon!
SIP Wine Club is coming to Esplanade at Northgate! Created to empower wine lovers of all levels to discover, purchase and enjoy wine, SIP Wine Club will give Members access to a diverse selection of wine with opportunities to enjoy wine tastings, unique private label selections and Member only discounts. With expert guidance and unmatched convenience, everyone from those just starting to explore the world of wine to a seasoned sommelier can easily find their go-to wines or discover new flavor profiles. Using the QR code below, hear from Patrick Scully, National Manager of Food, Beverage and Culinary Experience as he outlines the details of SIP Wine Club, available soon at Esplanade at Northgate! Additional details about program launch to follow.
ONEBLOOD
Blood Drive
9 A.M. - 1 P.M. THE VENUE ENTRANCE February 1
The drive will support local hospitals and save lives! Members are encouraged to participate, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and engage with neighbors in this life-saving endeavor. Together, let’s make a difference and show the power of community spirit! All donors will receive a OneBlood T-shirt and a $20 e-gift card.
10 A.M. - 2 P.M. THE VENUE January 16
We’re excited to announce our very first CPR, First Aid and AED Certification Class! Join us to learn essential life-saving skills in a supportive, hands-on environment. This course is $55 per Member, with seats limited to 15. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and be prepared to make a difference in emergencies. Certification cards will be provided by Heart Saver Institute within 48–72 hours after completing the class.
Culinary-Inspired Adventures Await!
REGISTRATION DEADLINE EXTENDED UNTIL JANUARY 10, 2025!
Destinations by Esplanade and Patrick Scully, National Manager of Food, Beverage & Culinary Experience, proudly invite you to spark your sense of culinary adventure with the introduction of two new food and beverage inspired travel experiences in 2025!
“One of my greatest joys while traveling is discovering new cultures through their cuisine. As your personal culinary guide on each journey, let’s indulge in the flavors and uncover the stories that make every destination unique!”
TASTE OF ITALY WITH SORRENTO 10 DAYS | 9 NIGHTS
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Italy over 10 days and 9 nights. Explore the iconic sights of Venice, Florence, and Rome, then journey to the historic ruins of Pompeii and the stunning coastal gems of Sorrento and the Isle of Capri.
To learn more about both trips, log in to the exclusive Esplanade Member portal on DestinationsByEsplanade.com and use password “esplanade2023.”
SECRETS OF THE DOURO: PORTO TO PORTO LUXURY RIVER CRUISE 8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS
Embark on an 8-day, 7-night luxury river cruise through Portugal’s enchanting Douro Valley. Discover terraced vineyards, historic landmarks, and charming towns, with an extended stay in the vibrant capital, Lisbon.
EsplanadeNorthgateLifestyle.com