Life + Culture

Sole Mates

The Couple Behind Charlotte’s Coolest Sneaker Studio Article by Taylor Bowler | Photography by Carissa Rogers In early November, Shoedio owners Mike and Emily Griffin had a gender reveal worthy of its name. As the Carolina Panthers players emerged from the locker room to take on the New Orleans Saints at Bank of America Stadium, they wore cleats painted in UV-reactive paint. When the team sprinted onto the field, their shoes changed from white to blue, revealing the surprise: “It’s a boy!” ...

Food + Beverage

Trending in Taste

Why the Carolinas Are Setting the Table for What’s Next Article by Kayleigh Ruller Restaurant trends, be they sensational, viral, and possibly paradigm-shifting, have a reputation for beginning in New York or Los Angeles. After a few laps around the sun, they finally filter their way down to mid-sized cities like Charlotte, creating a washed-out version of the original.  But not in the Carolinas. At least, not anymore.  Spending a weekend at The Food & Wine Classic in Charleston proved that...

Arts + Culture

Troll-Tastic New Kid In Town

The Story Behind Charlotte’s Most Eclectic New Celebrity Article by Elliott Harrell | Photography by Exploredinary Charlotte’s newest celebrity resident is a bit hard to find. He secretly moved into the city in early November, but has quickly become one of the most sought-after and talked-about folks in town. Big Pete is a 90-foot-long troll nestled in the new River District development by Crescent Communities. He's the latest art installation from Thomas Dambo, a renowned Danish artist known...

Shopping

Local Love In A Box

Bonnie + Bud, a Dream-Born Business Rooted in Family, Gratitude, and Local Makers Article by Carroll Walton | Photography by Carissa Rogers Whitney Holofchak was a mother of two toddlers at Christmastime when she recognized the need for a business that curated and delivered thoughtful gifts. Her idea to create Bonnie + Bud crystallized in a dream.  On her grandmother’s birthday, Dec. 28 in 2014, Holofchak dreamed she and her husband owned a stretch of lush land called Bonnie & Bud Farms. When...