Greensboro, NC May 2026

PROFESSIONAL BOLD CRAFTED

AUTUMN HOLLIFIELD

and

the

version of yourself Event

ribbon cuttings, galas and conferences Content and branding photography goes beyond just showcasing products or services; it's about telling a compelling story Branding is an investment in your business It’s how you stand out, connect with your ideal clients, and build trust from the first impression Quality visuals speak volumes about your business, and when you invest in the right branding, you're investing in the growth and longevity of your brand.

Celebrating the Women in Our Community

As the warmth of spring carries us closer to summer, I can’t help but reflect on the beauty and strength of the women in our community. From mothers and sisters to friends and mentors, this month’s issue is all about celebrating the inspiring women who shape our lives and enrich our city.

This month’s stories celebrate women’s contributions in every corner of our community. We’re proud to highlight their achievements and provide inspiration for others to follow in their footsteps. From a pair of compassionate realtors helping families find not just houses but homes, to a former beauty queen channeling her passion into a thriving blowout salon, to an entrepreneur bringing creativity to life through her latest jewelry venture—each story is a testament to vision, resilience, and heart. Together, they remind us that success looks different for every woman, but it’s always rooted in purpose and the desire to uplift others.

As always, we’re deeply grateful to our readers and advertising partners, whose support makes it possible to share these stories each month. It’s a privilege to be part of such a vibrant and supportive community.

Here’s to a month of celebrating the extraordinary women in our lives. May their stories inspire you as much as they’ve inspired us.

Wishing you a joyful and empowering May,

CAITLIN BRAXTON, PUBLISHER

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Caitlin Braxton | caitlin.braxton@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kari Smith | kari.smith@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Autumn Hollifield

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

@ASBURCK

@RUNBUFFALOCREEK

@GUILFORDKIDS

@GSOCHAMBER

@THE.JETSET.MINDSET

@SHIFTEDSCHOLARS

1: Families and friends enjoyed an evening of community at Starmount Forest Country Club's Calabash Night. 2: The W2W Second Annual Give Like a Woman Gala: An evening of community and impact. 3: Congratulations to Mindy Oakley for being shift_ed's 2026 Margaret Bourdeaux Arbuckle Award winner. 4: Coffee and Conversation brought together large and small businesses, organizations, and community members. 5: Buffalo Creek Run Club takes advantage of the weather and sights along the Downtown Greenway. 6: Acropolis Restaurant welcomed guests for Gate City Guide's Dinner Club. 7: NCEDA held its spring conference and 60th anniversary celebration at the Grandover Resort.

MAY 2026

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Tour of Historic Homes and Gardens

Celebrate National Preservation Month at Preservation Greensboro’s Tour of Historic Homes & Gardens, May 16–17, 2026, in Starmount Forest. This annual event offers rare access to beautifully preserved homes, showcasing architecture, design, and local history. Guests can explore the neighborhood while supporting preservation efforts that fund education, advocacy, and protection of Greensboro’s historic places.

Marjae's to Reopen in New Downtown Location

Marjae’s is relocating to Downtown Greensboro with a refreshed name, Marjae’s on Elm. From the beginning, Marjae’s has been about more than just drinks; it’s about creating a space where people can gather, connect, celebrate, and feel comfortable being themselves. The Elm Street location will continue that spirit with wine, cocktails, and small bites, but most importantly a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels included.

New at Cardinal Crossing

At Ark Nutrition, community is at the heart of everything they do. Their menu features vibrant açaí bowls, satisfying protein shakes, and energizing drinks crafted to power your day while bringing people together in a welcoming space. Visit them today at 2203 Fleming Road.

C Deck & Railing Company

Your Summer Memories Start Here

Your Trusted Tri ad Professionals for:

Decks (Composite & Wood)

Deck Repairs

Screen Rooms

Sun Rooms

Patios

Porches (Covered & Uncovered)

Custom Patio Covers & Pergolas

Underdeck Water Management Systems

Custom Handrail Installations & Much More!

Barefoot mornings. Late-night conversations. The kind of moments that only happen when your space feels just right.

This month, celebrate the moms and special women in your life the ones who make a house feel like home with a space designed for slowing down and being together

At NC Deck & Railing Company, we create outdoor environments that feel effortless, inviting, and completely your own from custom decks, screen rooms, and porches to fully covered living spaces

Because the best parts of summer and the moments you’ll remember most happen right at home. NC

Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.

Markets available nationwide

Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com

Opening This Summer: Float Dirty Soda Bar

Coming soon to 1013 Battleground Avenue, Float Dirty Soda Bar will offer a full Coca-Cola line-up with fruit add-ins, 40+ syrup options, cream options, bobas, and candy toppings. They'll have sugar-free and Olipop-based dirty sodas as well. Other offerings include Homeland Creamery ice cream, pretzels, cookies, and specialty popcorn.

Explore New Flavors at SIP LAB

SIP LAB is a modern coffee and beverage concept built around creativity, quality ingredients, and a vibrant community atmosphere. From specialty coffees and handcrafted energy drinks to smoothies and unique seasonal creations, guests can explore new flavors and without the hassle of pesky up-charges for milk alternatives and pumps. Locally owned and a sister company of ICECREAM FACTORY, SIP LAB encourages its guests to “build your brew” in a fun, vibrant, and elegant atmosphere.

JEWELRY meant to be LIVED IN

PRESSIE brings thoughtful design and everyday durability to a growing community of loyal customers

ARTICLE BY KARI SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUTUMN HOLLIFIELD

For Jenny Stilley, entrepreneurship has always been less about following a plan and more about following instinct. Jenny built her career with a natural blend of business acumen and creativity—first in the insurance world, then in fashion as the founder of BohoBlu boutiques, and now with an exceptional jewelry line.

PRESSIE was born from a love of thoughtful gifting and desire to create something lasting. After years of experience designing and curating accessories through BohoBlu, Jenny recognized an opportunity to build a brand rooted not just in style, but in meaning. The name itself reflects her vision: “Pressie” is British and Australian slang for “a little gift.” Jenny’s pieces feel special, whether given to someone else or chosen for yourself.

At its core, PRESSIE is about jewelry designed for real life. Each piece is waterproof, tarnish-resistant, and hypoallergenic. Pieces are created to be worn every day, not saved for special occasions. For Jenny, that practicality is just as important as beauty.

“My heart was yearning for something I could gift confidently and that could be meaningful,” she says.

The creative process behind PRESSIE is deeply hands-on. Jenny collaborates closely with designers, often blending their ideas with her own—sketching concepts, refining details, and sometimes building prototypes herself. Her approach is both intuitive and collaborative, shaped by years of experience and a genuine curiosity about people and how they connect with what they wear. Jenny has found new ways to stay inspired, turning to social media to connect directly with customers and even design pieces in real time during live sessions.

That connection is central to everything she creates. Whether through custom engravings, one-on-one appointments, or spontaneous online interactions, Jenny prioritizes making each customer feel seen. PRESSIE isn’t just a product; it’s an experience rooted in storytelling, relationships, and shared moments.

Shop PRESSIE online or reach out to schedule your showroom visit: https://shoppressie.com/ 4525-B US-220, Summerfield, NC 27358

ARTICLE BY KARI SMITH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUTUMN HOLLIFIELD

Beauty, confidence, and the power of showing up as yourself

Where Good Hair Meets Good Energy

Beauty isn’t just about appearance. It’s about energy, intention, and transformation. Locally, NeAva Davis has created a space where women can show up exactly as they are and leave feeling more like themselves than ever before.

NeAva was raised in Maryland and lived in various cities across the U.S. before settling in the Triad. Her path is one of resilience and reinvention. After relocating to Greensboro, NeAva found herself starting over professionally, eventually landing a job at Blowouts & Bubbles. Last year was transformative as it provided several incredible opportunities for NeAva. First, she met a former Miss North Carolina who encouraged her to enter the pageant. Despite having never competed in a beauty pageant before, NeAva entered and won the title of Miss North Carolina for America Strong 2025. That same year, the owner of Blowouts & Bubbles asked NeAva if she’d consider transitioning into ownership. “I was really honored,” NeAva says, “it was a blessing.”

While running a business was always something she’d been passionate about, NeAva’s connection to beauty started long before titles or ownership. She has been doing hair since middle school, styling for proms in high school, and later earning her cosmetology license

from Paul Mitchell in St. Louis. Every step of her career has remained rooted in the beauty industry, driven by a passion that feels like a true calling.

Today, Blowouts & Bubbles stands out not just for its services, but for its spirit. With two locations (Greensboro and Winston-Salem) and a team of licensed cosmetologists, the salon specializes in blowouts and event styling, with a strong emphasis on technique—particularly the art of round brush styling. NeAva takes pride in training her team to master foundational skills, believing that excellence starts with intention and attention to detail.

Another thing that stands out about the business is its atmosphere. “There’s no dress code here,” NeAva says. “You can express yourself however you want.” Music fills the space—everything from 90s R&B to Beyoncé—creating an ever-evolving, upbeat environment. The vibe is fluid, welcoming, and deeply rooted in positivity. It’s a place where women gather not just to look good, but to feel supported, celebrated, and seen.

That mission extends beyond the salon chair. NeAva is passionate about giving back and uplifting women in tangible ways, hosting events like Galentine’s celebrations and supporting community organizations. Her platform as a pageant

titleholder focused on advocating for survivors of domestic abuse, partnering with local organizations to raise awareness and provide support.

At the core of everything she does is a belief in the power of energy. “Hair is sacred,” she says. It’s a reflection of her philosophy that the care and intention she brings to her craft can impact how someone feels on the inside. It’s a form of connection, it builds confidence, and it instills empowerment.

NeAva’s work ethic and dedication undoubtedly helped get her to where she is today, but she’s quick to credit her family for supporting her along the way. Her father is a business owner and has provided invaluable mentorship. “My mom and my sister are great women, great mothers,” NeAva adds, “and my nieces make me want to be the best version of myself.”

Despite her successes, NeAva remains grounded in growth. She describes herself as a perfectionist learning to embrace flexibility, patience, and trust—both in her team and in the process. She admits she’s typically a shy, quiet person, but she’s flourished in her role as both a businessowner and pageant titleholder.

For NeAva Davis, confidence is simple, but powerful: fully accepting who you are, without apology. And at Blowouts & Bubbles, that belief isn’t just spoken—it’s felt.

Blowouts & Bubbles

Blowouts & Bubbles offers a carefully curated menu of luxury services designed to cater to your hairstyling needs, with indulgent add-on options including hair masks and scalp massage.

Blowouts & Bubbles

2105 W Cornwallis Drive, Greensboro www.blowoutsandbubbles.com/ @blowoutsandbubbles

ARTICLE BY KARI SMITH

Editor’s Picks: 5 Special Spring Outings

Freedom House Farm Stand

Pick your own strawberries or visit the farm stand for fresh produce, flowers, and jams. All proceeds support a women’s recovery program.

6434 US Highway 158, Summerfield, NC 27358

Grab your friends, pack a snack, and wander this beautiful farm after snipping your own bouquet.

2585 Dewberry Farm Lane, Kernersville, NC 27284

O.Henry Hotel

Enjoy scones, finger sandwiches, and sweet treats at afternoon tea in the beautiful social lobby.

624 Green Valley Road, Greensboro, NC 27408

Find a fresh new outfit for the season from this boutique's curated collection of stylish, quality pieces.

2915 Battleground Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27408

Discover a treasure you never knew you needed at this charming shop that offers antiques, gifts, and decor.

2214 Golden Gate Drive, Greensboro, NC 27405

ARTICLE BY KARI SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUTUMN HOLLIFIELD

stronger together

Realtors Kaye Brinkley and Emma Skelton blend strategy, support, and shared success to guide clients through life’s biggest moves

In a business that can feel fast-paced and transactional, Kaye Brinkley and Emma Skelton, realtor/brokers with Carolina Home Partners by EXP, bring a personal touch to real estate.

Emma came to the Triad in 2013 after a career in fitness, raising her family while navigating several moves of her own. Kaye’s background in furniture and design, combined with more than a dozen moves, gave her both a trained eye and a deep understanding of what clients may be going through. For both women, real estate was a career change and a natural next chapter.

Kaye and Emma know firsthand that buying or selling a home is emotional, sometimes overwhelming, and often tied to major life transitions. “I know how stressful it can be and what’s involved in the process,” says Kaye. She describes her work as part strategy, part counseling. Emma agrees, noting that success in real estate requires a wide range of skills, from marketing and finance to problem-solving and adaptability. It’s a role that demands both expertise and empathy.

And it’s that empathy—something they believe many women naturally bring to the table—that helps define their approach. Emotional intelligence, strong communication, and the ability to multitask aren’t

just “soft skills” in this industry; they’re essential. But what stands out most is their commitment to collaboration. Kaye and Emma have built their careers around the idea that sharing knowledge and supporting one another leads to better outcomes for everyone.

Their own partnership reflects that philosophy. While they operate independently, they are constant resources for each other: They share a special friendship, trade advice, and offer steady, trusted guidance. Emma describes Kaye as a calming presence and a wealth of knowledge: “She is an amazing, natural-born teacher.” Kaye, in turn, values the trust they’ve built and the ability to seamlessly support one another’s clients. It’s a dynamic rooted not just in professionalism, but in genuine respect.

Both women are passionate about mentorship—whether through their professional community, women-focused real estate groups, or simply being available to newer agents finding their footing. They believe in sharing what they’ve learned and creating opportunities for others. They don’t gatekeep; they open doors.

At its core, their work is about more than buying and selling homes. It’s about recognizing the significance of the moments tied to them. “My nirvana,” Kaye reflects,

“They've built their careers around the idea that sharing knowledge and supporting one another leads to better outcomes for everyone.”

“is seeing [my client’s] face change when we walk in the right house.” It’s also about the relationships that continue long after the transaction is complete. “We don’t just help them buy a home,” says Kaye. “We stay in contact ... do you need a vendor to fix something? Do you have questions about the new tax reassessment?”

For Kaye and Emma, real estate is a business—but it’s also a community. One where women support each other, share knowledge, and build success together.

Learn more about Kaye, Emma, and Carolina Home Partners | EXP Realty at www.nchomepartners.com.

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 2ND

4th Annual Arts Unbound Festival

Creative Aging Network Campus | 11:00 AM

Head to 2400 Summit Ave. for an arts and cultural experience and vibrant, community festival that celebrates creativity, culture, and connection across generations. Hosted by Creative Aging Network-NC, Arts Unbound brings together artists, performers, community partners, and neighbors for a day filled with music, art-making, food, and fun—creating an inclusive space where people of all ages and backgrounds feel welcome.

MAY 6TH, 13TH, 20TH, & 27TH

Adult Fans of Lego Night

Bricks & Minifigs Greensboro | 5:30 PM

Wednesday nights at Bricks & Minifigs (1570 Highwoods Blvd., Unit B) is a weekly meetup exclusively for adult fans of LEGO (AFoL), ages 18+. This is a great way to meet fellow LEGO fans, level up each other's game by trading tips and brick-crafting secrets, and most importantly, build a community.

MAY 14TH

Candle-Making Workshop

Find Your Flow Fitness & Wellness Studio | 6:00 PM

This hands-on experience invites you to unwind, tap into your creativity, and craft hand-poured candles designed to nourish your mind, body, and spirit. During the workshop, an instructor will guide you step-by-step through blending fragrances, layering colors, and designing your own self-care candles. Perfect for beginners and experienced makers alike. Buy your tickets: https://tinyurl.com/gsocandle.

MAY 16TH

Deep Sky Astronomy

Haw River State Park | 8:00 PM

Join local astronomers with the Greensboro Astronomy Club to observe the night skies over the Iron Ore Belt Access. You may have the opportunity to see closer-than-typical views of the moon, planets, star clusters, and other celestial objects. The event is free, but registration is requested. More info: https://tinyurl.com/DeepSkyAstronomy.

MAY 16TH

An Evening With John Legend

Tanger Center | 8:00 PM

Don't miss an opportunity to see John Legend, one of only 19 people in the prestigious EGOT club—a feat that places him among the most versatile entertainers in history. John Legend continues to inspire and leave an indelible mark on the world. Buy tickets at the Box Office or at Ticketmaster.com.

MAY 31ST

Nate Bargatze: Big Dumb Eyes World Tour

First Horizon Coliseum | 7:00 PM

Prepare to get your giggles out as Nate brings his popular comedy tour to Greensboro. Hailed as “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up,” by The Atlantic Magazine and “One of the Funniest People,” by CBS Mornings, Nate Bargatze is selling out shows and breaking venue attendance records. Buy tickets at the Box Office or at Ticketmaster.com.