Contributor: Jamie Richardson   Carolina Mall (Concord) 📍 1480 Concord Parkway North, Concord, NC 28025 Website If you’re looking to support local this holiday season, you won’t want to miss the latest Carolina Mall Pop-Up Winners of Hull Property Group’s American Dream Project! This initiative has been empowering small businesses by offering local entrepreneurs space in high-traffic retail centers, giving them the tools and opportunities to bring their dreams to life. Among the 2024 winners are two standout shops that are now open at Carolina Mall: Vigueur Fragrances …

Contributor: Jamie Richardson   Down South Styles 📍1457 N Main St, Mt Pleasant, NC 28124 The team behind Down South on Main and Man Cave on Main has once again brought something exciting to the community – Down South Styles. This new venture comes from the unique partnership of Susan and Melissa, who have been brought together by more than just business—it’s been a journey of prayer and purpose. Susan, who runs a successful ad agency, felt a calling to use her creativity in additional ways. At the same time, Melissa had been praying for a way to work together on a new …

Contributor: Jamie Richardson   Elle’s Tique Website | Instagram | Facebook 📍109 West Ave, Kannapolis, NC 28081 If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for stylish and comfortable clothing, as well as unique gifts, look no further than Elle’s Tique in Kannapolis, NC. Located in the West Avenue District, this boutique has something for everyone—men, women, and tweens. What began as an online boutique has blossomed into a thriving brick and mortar business as well, recently celebrating its second anniversary right in the heart of Kannapolis. The Inspiration Behind Elle’s…

Contributor: Jamie Richardson   The Spice & Tea Exchange of Kannapolis Website | Facebook | Instagram 📍 102 S. Main Street, Kannapolis, NC 28081 In Kannapolis, where history and revitalization blend together, Dionna Milem has created a delightful destination for food enthusiasts and tea lovers alike. The Spice & Tea Exchange of Kannapolis opened its doors in November 2021, and brings a unique blend of fine spices, handcrafted seasonings, loose-leaf teas, salts, sugars, and gifts to the downtown. Dionna’s journey to owning The Spice & Tea Exchange is as ful…

Where Gourmet Delights, Trendy Apparel, and Bridal Dreams Meet Contributor: Jamie Richardson   Peach Pepper Jam, The Marketplace Website | Facebook | Instagram Rustic Grace Bridal Boutique Website 📍 1325 S Cannon Blvd, Kannapolis, NC 28083 📣 Reader Shoutout! Thank you, Ann Benfield, for recommending we visit this Kannapolis store! Did you know that Kannapolis has a unique shopping spot that blends gourmet delights, trendy apparel, home decor, and even bridal fashion? Located at 1325 S. Cannon Boulevard, Peach Pepper Jam, The Marketplace and Rustic Grace Bridal …

Contributor: Jamie Richardson   📍 4519 School House Commons, Suite 230, Harrisburg, NC 28075 (Lowes’ Foods Shopping Center) Website | Facebook | Instagram | Online Store As a self-proclaimed book aficionado, my love for books is evident in the stacks found throughout my home. One of my favorite vacation activities is to explore local bookstores, so imagine my delight when I learned I didn’t have to wait for my next trip out of town to discover a new bookstore. Right here in Cabarrus County, we have our very own local shop to explore: Second Look Books. Located in th…

Contributor: Jamie Richardson   📍 The Lenz Studio,  70 Union St S, Concord, NC Website | Facebook | Instagram Since its opening in January 2023, The Lenz Studio has become a prominent venue in Downtown Concord. This 1,800-square-foot space, with its beautifully preserved 130-year-old brick walls and wood floors, offers a versatile setting for a wide range of events and activities. Owner Ashley Howell invites guests to explore this adaptable space crafted for fostering creativity and connections. FUN FACT: The historic building was originally constructed as a harness and …

📍 studios @ The Mill, 8750 E Franklin St, Mount Pleasant, NC Facebook If you are looking for ways to support local entrepreneurs, check out the vibrant businesses at studios @ The Mill in Mount Pleasant offering an eclectic range of services and products. Nestled at 8750 E Franklin St, this dynamic hub transcends mere businesses—it’s a fusion of creativity, commerce, and community. Many of the businesses have varying hours, so be sure to inquire with them directly to find out when they are open. Here is an introduction to the unique grouping of businesses at studios @ The Mill: Art…