Issuu

JA N UA RY 2 02 6

Ring in the New Year with some sparkle!

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Cheers to 2026! We’re so glad you’re here with us as we kick off a new year. In this month’s Health & Wellness issue, we hope to inspire you as you set new goals, embrace fresh opportunities and dream big for the year ahead. In our January issue, we introduce you to Wayne Cooper, a personal trainer and meal prep chef in Charlotte. Wayne has trained some of the city’s top athletes, as well as local personalities like Chef Sam Diminich of Restaurant Constance and food influencer Andrew Colacchio (@andrewloves_ on Instagram). He’s also my personal trainer! I discovered Wayne this past summer through Andrew’s social page. During that time, I lost my father suddenly to a heart-related event, which forced me to reflect on my own health and the genetics I’m navigating. On a recent holiday road trip, one of my kids shouted from the back seat, “Mom’s got muscles!” I guess something is working. I’m not completely there yet, but I feel stronger and hopeful that this foundation will serve me well in the years to come. Next up, figure out how to sleep more! In addition to personal fitness, we celebrate the arrival of Pvolve, the workout method favored by Jennifer Aniston, which is opening its first local studio in the coming weeks on East Blvd. Follow along with Krisha Chachra as she captures a magical winter wonderland in her Lake Louise travel journal. And Dr. Shraddha Mehta of Beyond the Weight in Myers Park tackles modern weight loss myths, particularly as GLP-1 medications continue to reshape health conversations.

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Liz Brown | liz.brown@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Carroll Walton | carroll.walton@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Jennifer Fenner | jennifer.fenner@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Gillian Horn | gillian.horn@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Matias Arredondo | matias.arredondo@citylifetstyle.com P H OTO E D I TO R

Seth Patrick CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Krisha Chachra, Elliott Harrell, Allie Papajohn, Carroll Walton C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Heather Ison, Carissa Rogers, Olly Yung

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson

Be well and stay inspired,

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

LIZ BROWN, PUBLISHER @ Q U E E N C I T Y M AG

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Queen City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Queen City area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

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No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Queen City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

38 22

Featured

22 28

38 48 12

The Power of Low Impact

Pvolve Brings a New Kind of Strength to Charlotte

Craftsman Reimagined

Designer Hadley Quisenberry Blends Bright Colors with FamilyFriendly Functionality for a Modern, Inviting Dilworth Home

Snow Globe Come to Life

Canadian Rockies Offer Alpine Escape North of the Border

Hatching Henrietta’s

An Unlikely Dinner Host Brings a lot to the Table

28 On the Cover

Departments

Pvolve, Jennifer Aniston’s preferred fitness method, arrives in Charlotte this year with a new studio in Dilworth.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Get Active FITNESS

House Call HOME + DESIGN

Healthy Lifestyle LIFE + CULTURE

Travel Journal TRAVEL

Skin Care BEAUTY

Local Limelight FOOD + BEVERAGE

Expert Help HEALTH + WELLNESS

Athlete Life HEALTH + WELLNESS

Events

Image of the Pvolve team taken at the rooftop of Linea South End.

Photography: Olly Yung

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JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

The Mint Museum Auxiliary Fall Enrichment Forum | 1: Elyce Arons, speaker and author with Mint Auxiliary President Katie Hallaway 2: President Elect Meredith Chapman, Event Co-Chair Cate Gutter, Moderator Rachelle Wates, Elyce Arons, Katie Hallaway, Room to Bloom Co-Chair Hope Leak, Event Co-Chair Amanda Roth, Room to Bloom Co-Chair Lindsey Lucenti 3: Florals by City Stems. Stage design by Brooke Adler Interiors. 4: Elyce Arons and Mint Museum President Dr. Todd Herman 5: Camille Rudy, Michel Van Devender, Nathalie Hennebert 7: Jessica Burke and Jennifer Jackson Photography by Christina Hussey CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

NEW YEAR, NEW BEGINNINGS

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city scene CONTINUED

14 13

Charlotte Wine + Food 12th Annual Wells Fargo Kickoff featuring Frescobaldi | 8: Jill Trainor, Courtney and Richard Anderson, Michael Gitter 9: Michael Gitter and Christophe Courteaud 10: Melissa Brannan and Kathryn Pearson 11: Cat Carter, Christophe Courteaud, Lori Spence, Bob Spence 12: Paul and Renee Miller 13: Craig Danforth, Jim and Betsy Deupree 14: Ted and Bonnie Kelly

Photography by Josh Bannen CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

city scene CONTINUED

The Foundation for Tomorrow’s 19th Annual South of the Sahara Gala | 1: David and Michelle Moore 2: Emerich Gutter, Frank Schall, Jamie Gutter 3: Christopher and Kathryn Pearson and Molly and Jay Sarn 4: Heather and Armani McDonald, Miller Bianucci 5: Nazy and Durham Weeks 6: Jacquelyn Tugwell, Kippy Thompson, Jane Caldwell 7: Jacquelyn Tugwell, Amanda McLamb, Tara Cawthorne, Tara Hughes, Rose Hayden, Lisa Fraser, Kate Dullaghan Photography by Dirk Weaver CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

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city scene CONTINUED

The Foundation for Tomorrow’s 19th Annual South of the Sahara Gala | 8: Hillary and Burrell Crittendon, Rhea and Jonathan Greene, Ryan Glinka 9: Chip and Jenna Johnson 10: Meghann Sehorn Photography by Dirk Weaver

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Pvolve Brings a New Kind of Strength to Charlotte

THE

POWER

LOW I M PAC T

ARTICLE BY CARROLL WALTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY OLLY YUNG

G E T ACT IV E | FI TNES S

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

So many women are programmed to push themselves to high-impact exercise. It doesn’t feel like a workout unless you’re drenched in sweat, running miles at a time, or cross-training in competitive programs. But what happens when physical challenges or changes make that difficult?

G E T ACT IV E | FI TNES S

There’s a new fitness brand coming to Charlotte this month that honors the idea of personal evolution. That’s why it’s called Pvolve, and it’s a program that celebrates the power of lower-impact, functional exercises for women of all ages. The national craze is coming to North

SHOOT CREDITS: Hair: Kenna Kunijo Makeup: Suellen Cotrim Models: (From left to right) Rafaelly Xavier, Sandra Riley, Katy Knowles, Mariana Lim, Beth Reisinger, Meghan Lee Location: Linea South End

Carolina for the first time, with a Pvolve studio opening early this year in Dilworth. It’s located on the first floor of the new apartment building at 1700 East Boulevard. For Rachel Katzman, the national founder of Pvolve, the physical challenge that sent her searching for a new workout was scoliosis. For celebrity

Meghan Lee, senior founding trainer at Pvolve

Jennifer Aniston, an avid brand ambassador and Pvolve partner, it was a back injury. For Charlotte’s new franchise owner Mariana Lim, her outlook on fitness started to change as she went through perimenopause. “I was navigating changes that come with midlife,” she says. “My body and my hormones were shifting. I noticed that high-intensity workouts were no longer serving me. It took time for me to accept that, but I think it was meant to be, my involvement with Pvolve.” Lim quit her corporate job and over the past year, has transformed her body, mindset and motivation. “I was asking, ‘What is the meaning of this?’” Lim says of her former job. “There was no meaning, just literally the money part of it. Pvolve for me has a meaning. I had a vision that I wanted to empower women to move with confidence, strength and grace. This is what Pvolve inspires. It’s transformation beyond fitness. It’s fostering health and wellness, with your body, mind and spirit. I thought, ‘I need to bring this to Charlotte and help other people to feel the way that I am feeling right now.’” Pvolve is a low-impact workout that fosters strength, balance, and flexibility. Classes are no more than 50 minutes and can be done in studio or online, using some from 13 pieces of specialized Pvolve equipment. There’s a P.ball, a resistance band with an inflatable fitness ball, and a Precision Mat labeled like a grid, which makes it easy to follow along with the instructor’s movements. “Pvolve is a workout that checks every box because it combines the mobility and flexibility of yoga, the core strength of Pilates and the muscle building of weightlifting all in one,” Lim says. “All the movements are rooted in how we move in everyday life, so they are not only effective but easy to learn.” CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

From left to right: senior founding trainer Meghan Lee, owner Mariana Lim, senior founding trainer Katy Knowles

The program is backed by clinical research and designed to meet women’s needs throughout their physical evolution from their 20s to their 60s. Lim visualizes clients coming in their mid-30s as they recover from pregnancy, at age 42 rehabbing a knee injury from a skiing fall, at age 52 moving a son or daughter into a college dorm room, or in their 60s, staying healthy for hiking trips with grandchildren. Classes can be done online for as little as 5 or 10 minutes. Lim wants Pvolve to meet clients where they are, on family trips, at home with children over the summer and more. Pvolve will also

G E T ACT IV E | FI TNES S

offer the convenience of childcare through The Grove and feature a beauty bar with products from Skin by Blair. Lim began building Pvolve’s local clientele through pop-up classes in SouthPark and Myers Park throughout the fall. “Give yourself permission to prioritize your health and well-being,” Lim says. “Pvolve is here to support you every step of the way. It’s not about perfection, but progress. It’s about feeling strong, confident and happy with your body. Your personal evolution starts here, with movements that honor you.”

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Tailor-made Woodwork, Designed to Inspire Waxhaw Woodworking is a design & build woodworking studio, where we specialize in custom cabinetry and furniture. Each piece that we build must meet the clients wants and needs. We make our clients vision become their reality. Our team of highly skilled craftsmen utilize Passion and Precision in every single build we undertake.

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A Charles Stewart sectional sofa is covered in a chenille fabric. Poufs by Loloi.

H OU SE CA LL | HO M E + DE SIGN

DESIGNER HADLEY QUISENBERRY BLENDS BRIGHT COLORS WITH FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUNCTIONALITY FOR A MODERN, INVITING DILWORTH HOME

ARTICLE BY CARROLL WALTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER ISON

CRAFTSMAN

A Gabby chest, sleek Visual Comfort lighting, and textured Cowtan & Tout grasscloth bring elegance and warmth to the foyer

REIMAGINED When designer Hadley Quisenberry of Perch Collective met with homeowners in Dilworth about renovating their nearly 20-year-old Craftsman-style home, it needed a refresh. The couple wanted a brighter color palette, a more energetic feel and better function for their family of five. They wanted to stay within the existing footprint of the 4,000-square-feet home—and especially their neighborhood. > CONTINUED

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

The kitchen backsplash is a handmade mosaic by Surface Studio, formerly known as Palmetto Tile. The Goodman pendant lighting over the island by Visual Comfort matches the petite pendant with inverse finishes over the sink. Custom roman shade in House of Harris Cambridge fabric.

“They go to the local school,” Quisenberry says. “They walk to school and play with neighbors, so while the home was no longer functioning for the family, and they were a little bit intimidated by renovation, they really didn’t want to leave their community.” Quisenberry enlisted the help of builder Cameron Cooke of Ethic LLC, who had completed a personal renovation for her, only to find out the homeowners’ children had attended the same preschool as the Cookes’. It was a good fit. Cooke’s team completed the project in five months, finishing in October 2024. “Even though from the outside it doesn’t look like much was done, except for a few refreshed areas, when you come into the home, it has this warm and inviting, updated appeal that it was probably lacking before,” Cooke says. “It’s a statement when you walk into the home that this is beautiful.” Quisenberry oversaw the project from start to finish, from advising on architectural plans to choosing fixtures and finishes and overseeing construction.

The stained cabinets offer a traditional feel, while the shakerstyle doors match the architecture of the Arts and Crafts style house

The main points of focus were renovating the kitchen, enlarging the cased opening to the living room, updating the primary suite, adding a bathroom upstairs, and making the entire home more family-friendly and comfortable. She blended painted and stained wood cabinets in the kitchen to set the tone for contrasting light and dark colors throughout the home. “We love to create interest with contrasts, yet repeating tones throughout the design so it still feels CONTINUED >

H OU SE CA LL | HO M E + DE SIGN

“We honored their desire for neutrals, layering in pale blues and textures,” Quisenberry says. “The rattan textured chandelier warmed it up since it’s a high-lofted ceiling.”

Cooler colors continue into the primary suite, where the homeowners wanted a relaxing and calm feel

A polished-nickel Danes chandelier by Visual Comfort shines over the tub, paired with art from Wendover Art Group

Utopia sconces from Visual Comfort cast light top and bottom with lower mounts for easy makeup application, while his-and-her hand towel bars flank the vanity tower. JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

Custom, functioning drapery panels in Carolina Irving’s Mimosa fabric bring tailored elegance to the dining room

“BECAUSE THERE WASN’T MUCH WALL SPACE, I WANTED THE LIGHT FIXTURE TO F E E L L I K E A P I E C E O F A R T,” S H E S AY S . “TO ME THE BLOWN GL ASS GLOBES HAVE T H AT A R T I S T IC F E E L .” cohesive and connected,” Quisenberry says. “The same wood stain is used in the kitchen and in the family room, since those spaces are connected.” Quisenberry’s design featured form and function throughout. The countertops are quartzite, which is as durable as granite with the look of marble, and the low refrigerated drawers give kids easy access to snacks and drinks. The Made Goods barstools were made with performance fabric to complement the wood detailing.

H OU SE CA LL | HO M E + DE SIGN

“We love that they have the natural caning detail with the stained wood perimeter because that really ties into our cabinetry color,” Quisenberry says. “It brings the warmth up to eye level.” The stained wood continues into the living room around the fireplace, which was transformed from its previous stone rustic veneer. The new surround, streamlined in cast stone, was made by WoodCrete Designs. The Charles Stewart sectional sofa was covered in a chenille fabric, providing comfortable seating for watching movies and

The kids’ flex space makeover

football games. Its frame is eight-way hand-tied, rather than made with springs, which “I tell clients, these pieces will last forever.” In the dining room, Quisenberry matched Aegean blue from the painted cabinetry in the family room with modern, floral drapery and vegan-leather upholstered chairs by Charles Stewart, which are wipeable with a sponge. “We love Charles Stewart because they’re in North Carolina and they hand-make everything to last,” Quisenberry says. The showstopper in the room is the chandelier. “Because there wasn’t much wall space, I wanted the light fixture to feel like a piece of art,” she says. “To me, the blown glass globes have that artistic feel. Since it’s not a big space, I like that you can see right through it, and it doesn’t close you in or obstruct the eye visually.” She anchored the room with a pair of demilune, or half-round, cabinets, where the homeowners could store placemats and other accessories. They’re a gray-washed wood to blend in with the wall color. Perhaps the most functional space in the house used to be the husband’s office, located by the front door. Quisenberry converted it into a kids’ “flex” space, which is part drop zone, part homework space, part hangout room. Behind the cabinet doors are cubbies for kids’ coats and bookbags. “They have a separate playroom upstairs, but this is for when they need access to mom to answer homework questions and when they need to drop their junk after school,” she says. Dad’s office was moved to a quieter space upstairs, adding all the more function to the home. “It really was a complete transformation,” Quisenberry says.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

A DAY IN

THE LIFE With Personal Trainer Wayne Cooper, Who Mixes Motivation, Nutrition and Mindfulness Into Daily Routine ARTICLE BY CARROLL WALTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARISSA ROGERS Do you ever wonder where personal trainers get their energy and motivation to stay fit and healthy? Or what they do during the day to practice what they preach? Queen City Lifestyle invites you to follow along on a typical day with Wayne Cooper III, 30, a personal trainer and a meal prep chef in Charlotte. Cooper says his motivation dates back to his sophomore year at Myers Park High School, when he took up wrestling to cope with being bullied. Cooper is half Chinese and was undersized for his age. He began weight lifting, bodybuilding and healthy dieting as a way to answer the sneers. “I think the best way to combat people like that is through success,” Cooper says. “I would bottle this almost anger and use it to

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | L IF E + CU LT U RE

better myself as an unlimited supply of energy. I’d never committed to anything before, and it changed my whole life. It changed my mindset because exercise creates good mental health.” He wrestled for three years, and by his senior year, he didn’t hear any more taunts. “I thought, ‘Man, I kind of wish people were talking trash again because that’s what was getting me through these workouts,’” Cooper says. While attending UNC Wilmington, Cooper got an internship in the strength and conditioning department, helping athletes in softball, baseball, track and field, basketball, swim and diving, tennis and more.

M O R N I N G

9 A.M.-NOON

& A F T E R N O O N

1-4 P.M. 7-8 A.M. He took a job at Velocity Sports Performance in Charlotte, where he worked with elite athletes like Gordon Hayward, formerly of the Charlotte Hornets, and NFL running back Cordarrelle Patterson. He studied meal prep and worked with athletes in all of the major professional sports. He’s also trained top chefs in the area, like Sam Diminich of Restaurant Constance and Andrew Colacchio, food and travel reviewer @andrewloves_ on Instagram. For insight into Cooper’s nutrition and fitness lifestyle, and how he maintains both his physical and mental health, follow him for a day.

7- 8 A . M . WA K E , WA L K A N D B R E A K FA S T I wake up. I drink water. I drink a 40-gram protein shake, which is also good if you are on the go, and I take seven grams of creatine. Creatine is naturally made in the body and found in foods like red meat and chicken. Creatine supplements were once thought to be only for athletes, but new studies show they’re good for women and elderly people. It’s great for brain health, heart health, lowers your blood sugar levels and gives you more energy. I take a 15-minute walk. You get natural vitamin D from the sun, which reduces stress, offsets cortisol. It’s important to get sunlight, especially in your eyes (no sunglasses, hoodie, or hat) to wake up the brain and the body. I cook a breakfast of Yukon Gold potatoes, spinach, turkey bacon (which is a good substitute for weight loss) and eggs.

9 A .M.-NOON TR A INING CLIENTS A ND LUNCH I train clients to gain functional strength for everyday living and train weaknesses like bad posture or bad knees. I add kickboxing for fun, high-intensity cardio. Around noon I eat a Waynethree Meal, which offers a variety of flavorful, balanced meals, for lunch, and I either edit videos or meet with clients while I eat.

1 - 4 P. M . M O R E T R A I N I N G A N D F A R M E R S M A R K ET RUN I work with clients at Cross Conditioning Training on Kings Drive. Afterward, I walk over to Kings Drive Farmers’ Market, which is right next door, and grab groceries for dinner. Chicken thighs or salmon— which is great for weight loss and brain health because of the Omega-3 fatty acids—dark leafy greens and carrots. You want to eat a rainbow of vegetables, a variety of colors. I get tomatoes, green onions. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

E V E N I N G

5-6:30 P.M.

10 P.M. 7-9 P.M. 5-6:30 P.M. PERSONA L WOR KOUT THEN SHA K E I work out at the Dowd YMCA. For strength-building, I use a mixture of free weights, body weight exercises and machines. I incorporate resistance training with dumbbells, bands, cables, sleds, etc. For cardio, I’ll do high-intensity kickboxing, rounds on the punching bag, or run outside. Afterward, I have another 40-gram protein shake. You want to get .7 grams of protein per pound of body weight. That’s something a lot of my clients, athletes or not, are not getting enough of, and adding shakes is an easy way to do so.

7-9 P.M. DINNER, STR ETCHES A ND BR EATHING I cook dinner, usually a recipe from my cookbook, Eat To Move, and update any clients about training programs. By about 9, I’ll do stretches. I’ll stretch anything that’s tight that day. I also practice

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | L IF E + CU LT U RE

diaphragmatic and nasal breathing while I watch TV. That’s really important. I’ve had people improve their cardio in two weeks just from nasal breathing, and that’s something you don’t need a gym for. Breathe in and out of your nose calmly, without sighing or yawning, when you watch TV or read a book. When you breathe through your nose, you filter oxygen better. When it gets to your bloodstream and your muscles, it’s already filtered out. To breathe diaphragmatically, your shoulders shouldn’t rise when you inhale and drop when you exhale. Put your hand on your abdomen. It should get bigger when you inhale, smaller when you exhale. I taught it to myself in 2020, and I don’t even have to do cardio. I can play a full court game of basketball with my friends and smoke them.

10 P.M. BEDTIME A ND M A NIFESTATION While I’m going to bed, looking at the ceiling, I do a lot of positive talk. I do a lot of mental visualization. This is stuff no one really talks about because it’s taboo, but it’s something I’ve tried since high school, and something I learned the greats like LeBron James and Olympic gold medalists do. I don’t say, “I hope to lose 80 pounds,” I say, “I’ve lost eight pounds.” Things I’m grateful for, things I’m good at. It’s manifesting good energy. It helps you fall asleep fast, too. It’s benefited me a lot, without having to spend a bunch of money on a gym membership.

Dr. Shraddha Mehta beyondtheweightclt.com @beyondtheweightclt 704-259-4299 2310 Randolph Road / Suite A Charlotte 28207

Beyond The Weight is a physician-led medical weight loss practice with a focus on obesity and metabolic health, serving both men and women ages 18 and up. Founded by Dr. Shraddha Mehta, a boardcertified specialist in Obesity Medicine and Obstetrics & Gynecology (OB/GYN), the practice delivers evidence-based, personalized care for individuals struggling with overweight, obesity, and chronic metabolic conditions.

Custom Craftsmanship For Every Client. V@blockhauscraftsmanhomes | inquire@blockhausinc.com JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

Snow Globe Come to Life Canadian Rockies Offer Alpine Escape North of the Border

ARTICLE BY KRISHA CHACHRA PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

Fairview Bar and Restaurant at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

You don’t have to cross the Atlantic for an Alpine escape. Alberta’s Lake Louise in the Canadian Rockies offers a winter experience as breathtaking as any in Switzerland or Austria, but much closer to home.

THE MAGIC OF ARRIVAL

Spending the holidays at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is like stepping inside a snow globe. You and your family can skate across a frozen lake framed by towering mountains, ski fresh powder, and laugh together on a sleigh ride pulled by Belgian draft horses. The adventure begins the moment you land in Calgary and head west on the Trans-Canada Highway. The drive winds through the postcard-perfect mountain towns of Canmore and Banff—both worth bookmarking for a future visit—before climbing deep into the Rockies. Leave enough daylight for the full two-hour drive to Lake Louise to enjoy the sheer scale of the scenery as the road snakes through dramatic peaks.

GRAND WELCOME

When the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise comes into view, you’ll notice how its grandeur mirrors the surroundings. The sprawling, Renaissance Revival–style property stands at the base of the mountains, keeping watch over the quiet, frozen lake. Inside, the old-world lobby sets the tone with a sweeping staircase leading to the library, where local historians share stories of the hotel’s past. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame mountain views so vast they can’t be contained in a single glance.

Fairmont Gold or Accor members can bypass the front desk and take a private elevator to the seventh floor, where a concierge handles check-in over hot hors d’oeuvres in a cozy lounge that doubles as the breakfast spot each morning. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased through the “honor bar” system and are available until 10 p.m. Request a lake-facing room; the sunrise over the peaks is worth every penny.

ICE, ADVENTURE AND ALPINE JOY

Children can lace up skates near the lobby and glide across the lake with an instructor. Adults might prefer trekking to a frozen waterfall tucked behind the bend. If the thought of hiking through a light snowfall makes you shiver, bundle up under a blanket on a sleigh ride pulled by massive horses that live in the adjacent stables nearby. Since the lake is a national park, it is open to the public and can get crowded at times. Reserve activities in advance through the concierge to avoid standing in lines. At the outdoor ice bar, built from 20 blocks of crystal-clear ice, you can warm up with mulled wine or orange chili hot chocolate (spiked or not). Nearby, a pop-up grilled cheese station—also only open seasonally—will get your gloves gooey. Both attractions are first-come, first-served, though resort guests get priority.

COZY CORNERS AND APRÈS-SKI CHARM

Indoors, the warmth continues. Take a cocktail class in the ballroom or sign up for a whiskey tasting in the Alpine Social bar CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

Campfire at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

Fondue at Walliser Stube

downstairs. Browse boutique shops and join family scavenger hunts or holiday bingo sessions. For downhill thrills, hop on the shuttle to Lake Louise Ski Resort (LLSR), where 4,200 acres across four mountain faces promise 164 runs—including one that stretches more than five miles. Snow tubing, snowshoe tours and lessons for all ages are available through online reservations. After hitting the slopes, there’s nothing more inviting than a crackling fire, peeling your gloves off and curling your fingers around a hot beverage while sinking into a deep leather chair. Carry this cozy feeling to dinner at the Fairview Bar and Restaurant, where wild-inspired Rocky Mountain cuisine is prepared by Executive Chef Nicholas Issel, using local ingredients from area farms and foragers. Walliser Stube, the resort’s fondue restaurant, pays homage to Canada’s mountaineering past with hearty and creative twists on Swiss and German favorites while diners enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies.

SERENITY IN THE SNOW

“Floor-toceiling windows frame mountain views so vast they can’t be contained in a single glance.”

Finally, build in some time to relax. The Fairmont indoor heated pool and spa offer classic relaxation treatments. But the newly-opened BASIN Glacial Waters experience is an inviting indulgence. The “all-sensory” thermal bathing amenity boasts multi-temperature natural spring pools inspired by the therapeutic benefits of Victoria Glacier’s mineral-rich water source. Architect Matteo Thun spent two decades planning and creating this eco-conscious sanctuary. Designed under Alberta’s strict environmental standards, the experience complements the beauty of Lake Louise and its wild surroundings—vigilantly protected for many snowfalls to come. KRISHA CHACHRA is a Charlotte-based travel writer for regional and national magazines. She has visited more than 50 countries on six continents and loves exploring new destinations with her family. She’s at krishachachra.com or on social media at @destinationsanddelish and @krishachachra CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

BASIN Glacial Waters vitality pool steps at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Banff’s Winter Magic A L B E R TA , C A N A D A Just 36 miles from Lake Louise, Banff is an easy drive—or a scenic one-hour bus ride ($10) through the heart of the Rockies. The Fairmont Banff Springs, the Chateau’s sister property, dazzles during the holidays with grand decorations and old-world charm. Wander through the charming downtown where twinkling lights, boutique shops and snow-dusted streets remind you of a Hallmark movie. Reserve a time slot online for the Banff Upper Hot Springs and bring a swimsuit to soak in mineral-rich waters while downloading sweeping mountain views. Once dry, continue to the Banff Gondola on Sulphur Mountain. Booking ahead helps avoid lines, leaving more time to savor the panoramic vistas from the summit—where restaurants, exhibits and a mountaintop boardwalk stretch across the peaks. After dark, stay for Nightrise, a multisensory spectacle of light, sound and storytelling that transforms the mountain into a living work of art beneath the stars.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

AGE-DEFYING Beauty Essentials January is traditionally a month to assess your health and wellness, so why not do the same for your makeup products and routines? Lindsey Regan Thorne, owner of Be Pretty Charlotte and Instagram content creator, curated a selection of 2026 must-have products for women over 40, offering a polished, on-trend, and elevated look. She anticipates that eyes will have a major moment this year. Expect to see neutrals and rosy gold shadow colors, as well as techniques like adding shadows along

your lash line. She also says that brown mascara will be in vogue this year. It’s softer than black mascara and pairs beautifully with her eyeshadow color predications. For other 2026 must-dos, check out Thorne’s new digital makeup lesson called the Beauty Blueprint. It’s a 20-page e-book detailing how to get her so-called “signature look,” which includes a semi-smoky eye and wearing faux eyelashes. Thorne plans to release new digital lessons regularly this year, too. Keep up with new lessons and helpful tips by following @lindseyreganthorne on Instagram.

Shape Up Your Makeup Routine with the Latest Picks from Top Local Makeup Artist Lindsey Regan Thorne ARTICLE BY ELLIOTT HARRELL

S KIN CA R E | BEAUTY

EYES ARE HAVING A MOMENT Color, texture, and statement shadows are back—neutrals, rose golds, velvety mattes, subtle shimmers. This palette’s smooth, silky shades transition beautifully from day to night. Hung Vanngo Beauty Color Story Eyeshadow Palette (color: New Neutral) $49

SOFT-FOCUS SKIN Lightweight, luminous, skincare-infused texture that’s not dewy or matte—just healthy and radiant. This primer gives a subtle glow while minimizing pores and fine lines for a lifted finish. Iconic London Underglow Blurring Primer $32

LINDSEY REGAN THORNE Lindsey Regan Thorne is a popular local makeup artist, content creator and mom of two. She started Be Pretty Charlotte, her full-service makeup service 16 years ago, and recently launched an e-book sharing her makeup lessons. If you only buy one thing from this guide, make it the Underglow Blurring Primer from Iconic London, she says, because it gives perfect radiant skin without looking too dewy, evens out your skin tone and reduces the look of large pores. Wear it under foundation or on its own with a tinted moisturizer.

SOFT-LIFT BLUSH PLACEMENT Blush moves higher and outward in 2026, instantly lifting cheekbones. Start with cream (love Charlotte Tilbury) and finish with satin. Trending shades: rosy nudes, coral quartz, berry flush. Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Lip + Cheek Glow Blush Stick with Hyaluronic Acid (color: Rosy Glow) $42

SUBTLE GLOW Soft sheen replaces sparkle in 2026. Highlighters shift from metallic glare to light-reflecting radiance, applied only on high points for a lifted, flattering, age-friendly glow. Dior Backstage Glow Maximizer Face Palette $54

THE SOFT-FOCUS LASH TREND Brown mascara is the go-to switch this year—soft, natural and ultra-wearable. It warms the eyes, complements neutrals and earthy tones, and pairs beautifully with rosy shades. YSL Lash Clash Volume Mascara (color: Uninhibited Brown) $34

NOURISHING LIP WITH A SUBTLE STATEMENT Wearable plums, berryrose tones and warm neutrals dominate 2026. Plush, balmy textures replace gloss and matte extremes—nourishing, smoothing lip serums that deliver comfortable, age-friendly pigment. Rhode Peptide Lip Tint Nourishing Glaze (color: Raspberry Jelly) $20

LESS SCULPTED, MORE BRONZED CHEEKS Bronzers shift warmer and softer, mimicking real sun-kissed skin, especially with light-reflective pigments that don’t emphasize texture. Gucci Sun-Kissed Glow Powder Bronzer $65

SECOND GLOW SKIN This is a medium-buildable serum base with a second-skin finish that gives radiant, naturally blurred coverage—never heavy or mask-like. Natasha Denona Hy-Glam Foundation $52

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

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HATCHING HENRIETTA’S

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A N U N L I K E LY D I N N E R H O S T B R I N G S A L O T T O T H E TA B L E

“What would Henrietta do?” That’s what Henrietta’s co-founders Barrett Worthington and Meg Charity are always asking when it comes to their newly opened restaurant in the Lower South End neighborhood. Worthington and Charity, also co-owners of Rally Pickleball, having been dreaming up this concept since Rally’s doors opened two years ago. “At the end of the day, what mattered most to us was creating a space that had a certain vibe and impact on people,” says Worthington. “It’s a rare find in any city to have a restaurant that makes you feel homey and that you belong there but still has this buzzy, intimate vibe to it.” Drawing inspiration from “Henrietta,” the duo was able to bring this idea to life. Henrietta is the “host” of the guest experience here; she’s depicted as an ostrich, which are known to be elegant and beautiful but quirky birds, and she also represents a special nod to the Rally side of the business. “If you know, you know,” says Charity.

CULINARY TEAM

No restaurant is complete without a menu, and that’s where partner-chef Andres Kaifer comes in. Worthington and Charity were

connected to Kaifer, a Rally pickleball player himself, early on in the process. As fans of Customshop, Kaifer’s well-known restaurant in Elizabeth, the two women felt “natural synergy” with the chef, and his experience in the Charlotte market brought a lot to the table. “Beyond just being able to deliver a menu, he was also guiding all of us in taking this grand idea and taking execution experience and really delivering it into this exact location,” says Laura Fusato, Director of Food and Beverage for Henrietta’s. Kaifer and his team trained the Henrietta’s crew and ultimately put faith into the trusty hands of Chef Paul Ciarfella, who leads the kitchen here and at Rally and has previously worked at restaurants like Haymaker and Hello, Sailor.

THE MENU

The menu is designed to be shareable with small plates and a few larger options. Early fan favorites include the hamachi with sesame, preserved blackberry ponzu, radish, and jalapeño and the carrots with whipped ricotta, caramelized honey, dukkah, and espelette. Some guests are even calling the Half Green Circle Chicken the “best chicken they’ve ever had.” CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

“EARLY FAN FAVORITES INCLUDE THE HAMACHI WITH SESAME, PRESERVED BLACKBERRY PONZU, RADISH, AND JALAPEÑO AND THE CARROTS WITH WHIPPED RICOTTA, CARAMELIZED HONEY, DUKKAH, AND ESPELETTE.”

“Growing Charlotte’s food and beverage industry is something that I am super passionate about, as well as collaborating with like-minded entrepreneurs like Meg and Barrett,” said Kaifer. “For the opening menu, I was really passionate about bringing flavorful and seasonal locally-sourced options that align with my same philosophy at Customshop.”

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | FO OD + BE VE RAGE

DRINKS & DESSERT

The beverage menu follows suit with signature cocktails crafted with housemade juices, syrups, and tinctures. Two standouts are the clarified milk punches, designed to bring out nostalgic flavors in an elevated way. The Bamm Bamm is reminiscent of Fruity Pebbles “cereal milk” while the Orange Creamsicle is a sippable ode to the tasty frozen treat. Two spirit-free drinks round out the menu, both intentionally built as memorable drinks sans-alcohol, and an extensive wine list is also available. Diners are encouraged to end the meal with the key lime pie ice cream cake, which came from asking “how would Henrietta do it?” and developing a unique menu item around the classic dessert.

THE SPACE

The Henrietta’s space, formerly the Rally Annex building, is complete with a signature sage wall, warm lighting, light fabrics, and a section of cozy half-circle booths. Designer Alexis Strong was essential in helping tie Worthington and Charity’s ideas together to make things cohesive and bring it all to life. Off to the side, there’s a separate event space still used for Rally meetings and gatherings, but the Henrietta’s team hopes to welcome more event use in their space in the coming months. So, what would Henrietta do? Pull up to the ongoing “dinner party” at this new restaurant and find out.

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ARTICLE BY CARROLL WALTON

Beyond the Scale Dr. Shraddha Mehta Clarifies Today’s Weight-Loss Myths Dr. Shraddha Mehta of Beyond the Weight in Eastover. She is certified in both obstetrics/ gynecology and obesity medicine.”

What shifts are you seeing in weightloss trends since medications like Ozempic became more mainstream? Weight loss medications, particularly GLP-1s, have helped change the narrative about obesity. It’s considered a chronic medical condition, not a lack of motivation or willpower. However, there is increasing concern about the number of people taking GLP-1s without tracking body composition changes. Measuring BMI alone does not capture the full picture of weight loss. Body composition testing goes beyond BMI to identify lean mass (muscle and bone), fat mass and body fat percentage. Measuring body composition allows us to customize treatment to maximize fat loss while preserving muscle and bone. Finally, when it comes to weight maintenance, you must be able to sustain the dietary patterns, physical activity and other behavioral changes.

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How do you determine whether a patient is a good candidate for a GLP-1? I use specific medical criteria along with a detailed health history, lab analysis,

EXP E RT H E LP | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

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What are everyday habits that contribute to long-term health? The most impactful habits are regular physical activity, avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy body composition. Others include getting adequate sleep, minimizing alcohol intake and managing stress.

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It’s important to prioritize strength training because we lose 3-8% of our muscle mass every decade after age 30. Full-body strength training 2-3 times per week helps maintain or build muscle mass, which is critical to metabolism. Eating enough protein (approx. 1 g per kg) also supports metabolism. Some patients may need even more. Move more throughout the day, aiming for 8,000 steps daily.

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

R E GE NE R AT I V E ME DIC INE NEOGENIX OFFERS HOLISTIC ALTERNATIVE IN TREATING JOINT PAIN

ARTICLE BY CARROLL WALTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARISSA ROGERS

AT H LE T E LIF E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

World-class athletes like Tiger Woods, Kobe Bryant, Rafael Nadal and even Charlotte’s own Steph Curry have made regenerative medicine part of the everyday vernacular. Curry once received a PRP, or platelet-rich plasma injection, in which platelets from his own blood were used to treat his sprained knee during the 2016 NBA playoffs. He was back on the court for the Golden State Warriors nine days later.

Former Carolina Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis heard about the treatment from former Panthers lineman Frank Garcia. He was looking for relief from knee pain after undergoing three operations during his football career. Through Garcia, he found Dr. James Altizer and the NeoGenix clinic, which has locations in Ballantyne and Lake Norman. “I cannot tell you enough how much of a difference it made in my life,” Davis told Charlotte TV station WCNC, describing how it allowed him to play basketball with his teenage sons. “These treatments have been life-changing.” NeoGenix, an independent clinic, treats not only athletes but patients from all walks of life. It specializes in patients with arthritis and injuries ranging from meniscus tears, rotator cuff tears, degeneration of the low back, sciatica, thumb, ankle and Achilles injuries, plantar fasciitis and more. Director of Operations Nikitas Miles, who helped Altizer open NeoGenix in January 2020, said Altizer has performed more than 5,000 procedures. “He’s the most experienced guy in the Southeast from a pure volume standpoint,” Miles says. The range of treatments includes both PRP injections and stem cell therapy, which patients can receive from their own platelets or, for more severe cases, stem cells collected from fat cells in either the abdomen or buttocks. Miles says regenerative therapy is for patients looking for more holistic solutions than a cortisone shot. “Our therapies are literally the only treatments out there that are capable of slowing down and even reversing, in some cases, the effects of arthritis and tears,” Miles says.

The procedures are not covered by insurance and range in price, starting at $1,000. Only local anesthetic is used, and patients can walk out of the clinic in about an hour. Each patient is screened during a free consultation with Dr. Altizer, an internist. “We call ourselves the most trusted stem cell clinic in the Carolinas, because we do things the right way,” Miles says. “If your arthritis is too bad, if your rotator cuff tear is too bad, we will not treat you. If our doctors don’t think we can help you, they’ll be the absolute first ones to tell you. That’s why we have such a good reputation around town.” NeoGenix reports seeing improvement in eight of 10 patients who qualify. “All the treatments we’ve had to treat arthritis up until now are just covering up the pain,” Dr. Altizer told WCNC. “Cortisone shots, gel shots— those don’t heal anything; they’re just delaying the inevitable. Stem cells can actually heal tissue damage in joints caused by trauma, wear and tear, time and gravity… It’s a game changer when it comes to arthritis.”

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

JANUARY 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

JANUARY 1ST – FEBR UARY 1 5T H

Winter at Whitewater 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway 10:00 AM Enjoy seeing the U.S. Whitewater Center transformed into a winter wonderland, whether it’s to ice skate, play pond hockey, try Cask Curling, or simply to enjoy taking in all the illuminated areas at night. Enjoy the walking trail, ziplines, suspension bridges and Wildwoods areas all lit up, and explore interactive obstacles that are fun for all ages. JANUARY 1ST – FEBR UARY 21 ST

Ice Skating at the Whitewater Center 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway 10:00 AM The Whitewater Center river transforms into a 24,000-square-foot ice skating center as the largest outdoor ice rink in the Southeast. Guests enjoy four skating areas, two ice trails, two free skate zones, and an Airstream serving hot and cold beverages in the middle of the rink. The cost is $25 for a daily activity pass, with skate rental included.

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Duke’s Mayo Bowl Bank of America Stadium, 800 S. Mint Street | 8:00 PM Watch Wake Forest take on Mississippi State in the clash of ACC and SEC opponents. Since shortly after Duke’s Mayonnaise became the title sponsor in 2020, the bowl’s winning coach has received a now traditional post-game mayonnaise dump of 4.5 gallons of the creamy condiment over his head. JA N UA RY 4 T H

Epiphany Celebration (Día de los Reyes Magos) Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road | 1:00 PM Celebrate Día de los Reyes Magos (Epiphany) in conjunction with the exhibition Art of Devotion: The Santos de Palo Tradition of Puerto Rico. Enjoy exhibition tours and an afternoon of music, dance, storytelling, arts and crafts, a traditional Pastorela performance and a taste of Rosca de Reyes (Three Kings Bread). It’s 1-5 p.m. and fun for all ages. CONTINUED >

New Year, New Radiance This year, embrace your transformation. At Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology, we combine artistry and advanced medical expertise to help you achieve natural, lasting results. With locations across the Carolinas, our board-certified & board-eligible plastic surgeons and dermatology providers make it easy to look and feel your absolute best.

www.ppsd.com JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ Q UE E N C I T Y

Unknown-1

Che s to 2026!

events

CONTINUED

JANUARY 17

MLK JR. HOLIDAY PARADE Tryon Street, Uptown | 9:30 AM Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the return of this parade. It marches down Tryon Street from Ninth Street to Brooklyn Village Avenue. It will feature more than 100 community organizations, marching bands, and step and drill teams. Highlights include floats with the student winners of the CMS MLK Art and Writing Contests and local performance groups. JANUARY 23 R D – FEBR UARY 1 ST

Queen’s Feast: Winter Edition Throughout Charlotte | 6:00 PM Charlotte’s Restaurant Week, known as Queen’s Feast, returns Jan. 23-Feb. 1 at 100 restaurants around the metro area offering three-course, prix fixe dining deals ranging from $30 to $50 per person, usually for dinner. Customers can visit CharlotteRestaurantWeek.com to view the list of participating restaurants. The 10-day event is held each January and July. Reservations are recommended.

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