by Suzanne M. Wood illustration by Addie McElwee The first indication that the owl “safari” I was about to embark on would be more of an audio experience than a visual one came when leader Meredith Massengill hoisted a large black boom…
by Mimi Montgomery photograph by Travis Long Tucked into a row of shops off Dixie Trail, Frameworks is a family-owned gallery and frame design shop that’s been in business for 40 years. Owners Charles and Carolyn Younger started it as…
by Jesma Reynolds photographs by Juli Leonard Turning a hobby into a career can be an unlikely dream. But by tapping into her vast trove of flea market finds – old feed sacks and Americana textiles – Jessica Ullom has…
“I wanted to give a better service and still keep it affordable. Catherine felt the same way but she always brought her style and her retail experience and her fashion experience.” – Heather Brewer, co-founder, Paintbar by Mimi Montgomery photograph by Travis…
by Suzanne M. Wood The opportunity to fuel up at one of my favorite restaurants sealed the deal when I considered which local segment of North Carolina’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail to hike on an early winter afternoon. Conveniently, a 2.2-mile section of…
“They think we’re just the typical pawn shop, when really we’re the complete opposite.” – Alan Horwitz, owner of Reliable Loan and Jewelry by Jessie Ammons photograph by Travis Long On the section of South Wilmington Street now defined by a trio…
“We’re both so lucky and have so much that we should be thankful for, and we wanted to be able to give back in some sort of way.” –Harris Parker, co-founder, Boho Beads by Mimi Montgomery photograph by Travis Long…
by Ilina Ewen photographs by Ray Black III Chances are, when North Carolinians hear the word cricket, they’re thinking bugs. Not the game of ball, bats, and wickets first played in England in the 16th century, now second only to soccer…
photographs by Scott Sharpe A recent visit to Cheshire Cat Gallery at Cameron Village led to the discovery of these captivating vintage Christmas ornaments that would add sparkle to any tree. From a classic Santa Claus and Christmas tree to…
Quality, not quantity by Mimi Montgomery photographs by Miller Taylor Raleigh natives Sam and Meredith Kirkpatrick are bringing new life to downtown’s South Street with Holder Goods & Crafts, a new space for art, home goods, furniture, and antiques. Together…
“What I put in the store is what I would want to put on my own children.” – Lauren Hood, owner, Progeny by Mimi Montgomery photograph by Travis Long When Lauren Hood became a mother, she discovered it wasn’t easy…
by Suzanne M. Wood As my paddle parted the clouds reflected on the water’s surface, I marveled – not for the first time that sunny fall afternoon – at how still it was. My husband and I were paddling our tandem…
Charlotte’s celebrates 25th anniversary by Jessie Ammons photograph by Missy McLamb Decades ago, Charlotte Harris was home in Texas for the holidays and in search of a good gift. Her friend told her she must go to Carol’s. “I thought,…
by Ernest Dollar This season, as you’re making your list and checking it twice, our area retailers would be grateful if you remember to “shop local.” That didn’t used to be a matter of choice. Local was the only option, and…