Belle August 24 : simplebooklet.com

4Multi-Million Dollar ProducerCertiﬁed Luxury Home Marketing Specialist(864) 918-9772 • kjordan@cbcaine.comkatiejordanrealtor.comMid-Year Market Check-InJORDANREALTOR®KATIE“We have moved over 10 times and Katie was the ﬁrst relator who gave us security throughout the entire process, even from 300 miles away. From the initial visit that included house showings, through the house closing, Katie was always there and dutifully checked in frequently to make sure we had everything we needed. I can’t say enough about her capability and work ethic. We were blessed to have her as our realtor and will recommend her to everyone we know.”-Ryan T.Although the market is more balanced than in previous years, it’s still a seller’s market. We expect to see that continue through the rest of the year. Stable (or falling) interest rates are bringing buyers into the market, leaving you well positioned to sell quickly and purchase your next home. It’s a win-win! Give me a call to maximize the value of your current home and ﬁnd your next investment.39 DAYS$317,283Avg Days on Market+8.4% in Avg Sales PriceMarket information provided by the Spartanburg Association of Realtors MLS: 1/1/2024 through 6/30/2024

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5August2024Amanda G. BassEditor and ContributionsMelissa RhineManaging Editor864.612.0745melissa@bellemagonline.comAlison StormFeatures Editoralison@alisonstorm.comfrom the editor...Jeslyn LanierCreative Director843.509.7559jeslynlanier@gmail.comJessie WalkerSmiling Down Photographysmilingdownphoto@gmail.comEditor and ContributionsWe’re thrilled to bring you another fabulous issue of Belle, packed with everything you need to make the most of the last sweet days of summer and gear up for the exciting back-to-school season.On our cover this month, we’re spotlighting Showoffs Kids Boutique, a local favorite that makes dressing your little ones fun! Inside, you’ll find a mouthwatering break-fast pizza recipe that’s perfect for those busy mornings when you need something quick, delicious, and kid-approved.We’ve had the pleasure of chatting with several incredible local businesses and owners this month. Their passion and dedication are truly inspiring, and we can’t wait for you to get to know them better. From personal trainers to sneaker aficionados, we’ve got a bit of everything!As the new school year approaches, we’re here to help you prepare with practical tips to get your home and kiddos ready for a smooth transition. Plus, don’t miss our special page celebrating Women’s Equality Day—because every day should be a celebration of strong, amazing women!This issue also features a captivating artist profile on the incredibly talented Audrey Gore. Her work is a testament to her vibrant and creative spirit, and we’re excited to share her story with you.And of course, we’ve packed in tons of local shopping and business highlights to keep you in the know about all the best spots around town.We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you. Here’s to a fantastic August filled with sunshine, new adventures, and cherished memories! Check Out Our Website!@bellemag_ocialBelle Magazinebelle, a magazine for the modern southern woman, is published monthly and distributed throughout the Upstate of South Carolina by Romelous & Son Publishing Co., LLC. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or content we deem inappropriate for the publication. Contributions are welcome and can be sent via email, please include name, address, and contact number. You will be contacted if we decide to publish your submission. Content must be received by the 1st for the following month’s publication. Letters to the editor are welcome, however, they may require editing due to space limitations. The design, editorial, and photo content in belle is copyright of Romelous & Son Publish-ing Co., LLC and may not be reproduced without written permission by the publisher.Text ‘ADVERTISE’ to 864.612.0745 or email us at bellemagocial@gmail.com to join Belle today!

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Summer’s lazy days are slowly drifting away, making room for the excitement of a brand new school year just around the corner! It’s time to dust off those backpacks, sharpen those pencils, and get ready for the adventure ahead. Whether your little ones are starting their first day of kindergarten or gearing up for their senior year, setting up routines and creating a home where learning thrives are key to making this school year one for the books! Here are some super-smart tips to help your family rock this school year!ESTABLISH A CONSISTENT ROUTINE: Transitioning from lazy summer days to structured school routines can be challenging for children. Start adjusting sleep schedules and meal times at least a week before school starts. Gradually moving bedtime earlier and waking them up closer to their school schedule helps ease the shock of early mornings. Consistency in routines—like bedtime rituals and morning routines—helps children feel secure and mentally prepared for the school day ahead. Create a bedtime routine that includes reading together or discussing the day’s highlights. This not only aids in relaxation but also encourages open communication with your child.CREATE A DEDICATED STUDY SPACE: Designate a specific area at home for homework and study sessions. This space should be quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions like televisions and phones. Stock it with essential supplies such as pens, pencils, rulers, and a dictionary to minimize interruptions during study time. Let the kids help set up a study corner in a quiet part of the house, such as a corner of the living room or a spare bedroom. Personalize it with your child’s artwork or motivational quotes to make it feel inviting and theirs.SET REALISTIC GOALS TOGETHER: Sit down with your children to discuss their academic and personal goals for the school year. Help them break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps. This approach not only builds their confidence but also teaches them valuable skills in planning and achievement. For example, if your child wants to improve their math grades, break down the goal into weekly targets, such as completing homework on time and practicing specific math problems for 15 minutes each day.BACK-TO-SCHOOLSUCCESS TIPS FOR A HAPPY HOME AND BRIGHT KIDS

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11FOSTER OPEN COMMUNICATION: Encourage your children to express their thoughts and feelings about school openly. Actively listen to their concerns and celebrate their successes, creating a supportive environment where they feel valued and understood. During dinner or before bedtime, ask questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” or “Is there anything you’re worried about for tomorrow?” This opens up channels for communication and reassures your child that their feelings are important.TEACH TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS: Introduce tools like planners or digital calendars to help children organize their assignments, extracurricular activities, and family commitments. Teach them to prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance, laying the foundation for effective time management skills. Create a weekly schedule together that includes study time, sports practice, and family activities. Review and adjust it as needed to accommodate changes in school projects or events.PROMOTE HEALTHY HABITS: Start each day with a nutritious breakfast to fuel your child’s brain and body. Pack balanced lunches and snacks that provide sustained energy throughout the day. Encourage regular physical activity and prioritize adequate sleep to support their overall well-being and concentration in class. You could prepare overnight oats with fruits and nuts for a quick and nutritious breakfast option and involve your child in packing their lunch, ensuring it includes a variety of food groups like whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables.STAY INVOLVED IN THEIR EDUCATION: Attend parent-teacher meetings and school events to stay informed about your child’s progress and school activities. Volunteer when possible to show your support for their education and connect with their teachers and peers. Join the parent-teacher association (PTA) or volunteer to chaperone field trips. This involvement demonstrates to your child that you prioritize their education and encourages them to take pride in their academic achievements.CREATE A POSITIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT: Encourage curiosity and exploration at home by providing books, educational games, and opportunities for hands-on learning. Show enthusiasm for their interests and encourage them to pursue their passions both inside and outside the classroom. Visit museums, botanical gardens, or science centers as a family. Discuss what they learned and how it connects to their school studies, fostering a love for learning that extends beyond textbooks.PRACTICE SELF-CARE AS A FAMILY: Model healthy behaviors by prioritizing self-care and relaxation. Schedule family outings or activities that promote bonding and reduce stress levels for everyone. Encourage open discussions about emotions and coping strategies to build resilience. Plan a weekly family hike or bike ride in a nearby park. Use this time to disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other while enjoying nature’s beauty.CELEBRATE ACHIEVEMENTS, BIG AND SMALL: Recognize your children’s efforts and accomplishments throughout the school year, whether it’s mastering a new skill or showing resilience in difficult situations. Celebrate milestones as a family to boost morale and foster a positive attitude towards learning and personal growth. Create a “brag board” at home where you display their certificates, artwork, and achievements. Schedule family celebrations for major milestones, such as completing a challenging project or making new friends at school.By implementing these strategies, you can create a supportive environment where your children feel prepared, confident, and motivated to excel academically and personally. Remember, a proactive approach to education and family well-being sets the stage for a successful and fulfilling school year for everyone involved and THAT is what makes a mama heart happy!JUST A FEW TIPS FROM SOME OF OUR LOCAL CURRENT AND FORMER EDUCATORS TO HELP YOUR FAMILY HAVE THE BEST SCHOOL YEAR! AUDREY AMOS - I would say that practicing a sustained task for an extended amount of time without any electronics would be the best way to prepare kids to return to the classroom. Sus-tained reading, writing, or even working on puzzles is also good practice. Cutting coupons or reading a grocery ad to help plan a budget-friendly meal is a good idea that helps with mental math skills. Besides that, I would encourage parents to enjoy these last few weeks of summer and begin incorporating a schedule!KIM FOWLER - For Kindergarten: practicing opening snacks/bags and putting on coats/shoes/sweaters is a huge help! Also, TALK with your child (have a REAL conversation with them) to help prepare them for the conversations they will be having with their teachers and classmates through the school year. LEAH REXRODE - Plug in! Ask your child's teacher how to stay plugged in: remind 101, class dojo, google classroom- whatever you've got to do to stay in the know!BLAIR KYLE - Consistent routines and adequate rest go a long way each day for a child’s physical, mental, and emotional health!PAULA MCDANIEL - Send them in every morning with a smile and encouraging word and be sure to greet them the same way in the afternoon.JANICE GARDNER - Practicing eating packed lunches before school begins is a great idea! Also, I recommend not choosing shoes that light up for back to school as they tend to disrupt the class.

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INGREDIENTSpizza dough (homemade or store bought)2 tablespoons olive oil8 large eggskosher saltfresh ground black pepper2 tablespoons cool water1 1 /2 tablespoons butter1 1/4 cups shredded provolone1 cup shredded Pepper Jack Cheese6 slices bacon cooked crispy coarsely chopped1/2 lb. bulk pork breakfast sausage browned1/2 red pepper ﬁnely diced3 green onions choppedsalsa optionalINSTRUCTIONSPreheat oven to 425 degrees. Oil a 10x15-inch rimmed baking sheet.Work your pizza dough around the baking sheet by pressing gently with your ﬁngers and hands.It may take a little time to work the pizza dough out as it tends to pull back from the sides.Once it seems to stay put, use your hands to tuck and push a little of the dough up against the side of the baking sheet creating a crust. Bake in the oven for 7-8 minutes.Beat the eggs and water together.Melt butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.Add egg mixture and cook slowly, rotating them gently with a spatula. Be sure to slightly undercook the eggs as they are cooked again in the oven. Season the eggs with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper Spoon the eggs onto the pizza dough.Top the eggs with both kinds of cheese, cooked bacon, cooked sausage, red pepper, and scallions.Place back in the oven for 10-12 minutes, turning on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes. Rotate the baking sheet several times during the broiling process and stay close by, as broilers can be somewhat unpredictable. Cool, slice, and enjoy!BELLE’S RECIPESAs the back-to-school season approaches and mornings become a ﬂurry of activity, having a quick, nutritious breakfast option is a game-changer. This breakfast pizza is the perfect solution, oering a delicious and versatile meal that can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. This recipe is a lifesaver for those hectic mornings, ensuring that everyone in the family gets a wholesome start to their day without the stress. With customizable toppings to suit any preference, this breakfast pizza is not only convenient but also a hit with even the pickiest eaters. Simplify your morning routine and enjoy a delightful, make-ahead meal that sets a positive tone for the busy day ahead!

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21Body Sculptorslocal spotlight //What inspired you to start Body Sculptors in downtown Spartanburg?I started Body Sculptors to give people what I felt I did not get when I was younger and hiring personal trainers for myself. I would get a good workout, but when I left the gym, I didn’t have a clue what I was doing. At Body Sculptors, we give you the tools you need to succeed and also maintain for the rest of your life. We don’t just train you, we teach you nutrition using foods you like designed specifically for each individual. Also, our workouts are designed for what your specific goals are.Can you share a memorable success story from one of your clients that always brings a smile to your face?I have hundreds of memorable stories from over the years, but one of my favorites is a lady that came to me a few years ago- she weighed over 240 pounds was going to a nutritionist that had her on 500 calorie a day diet. At her consultation with me, I told her that was not a healthy caloric intake for a day and we started her around 2000 cal a day. That way, she had enough calories to create a deficit through the process and 14 months later she was 145 pounds. What I am most proud of is that she no longer trains at Body Sculptors and hasn’t in over two years, but we were able to teach her how to live life and eat food she enjoys, while still maintaining her weight and not gaining anything back. We created a healthy lifestyle for her that will add years to her life!With back-to-school season upon us, do you have any tips for busy parents to squeeze in a quick workout?The absolute number one tip I would give is don’t try to start doing too much and get discouraged. If you have 30 minutes for three days a week- start with that. We offer 30 minutes circuit classes at noon, which is very popular and a perfect fit for a busy parent.What are your hours of operation, and do you offer any special classes or services outside of regular hours?Body Sculptors works by appointment since we are a private studio, however we do offer a one hour fit camp on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5 AM. Just give me a call at 864.415.9370 or email at ronniekirby@bodysculptorsllc.com and we can come up with the perfect plan that fits your schedule!How do you keep your group fitness classes fresh and exciting for regular attendees and can you give us a sneak peek into what a typical fit camp session looks like?We keep our classes constantly changing and challenging for any and all fitness levels. Every day is something new and different - one day may be Tabata, the next an obstacle course, and the next working with weights. It keep each day high energy and exciting for everyone!What’s the most common fitness myth you’ve encountered, and how do you debunk it for your clients?The most common myth in my opinion, is that muscle weighs more than fat. A pound is a pound. Picture this: muscle is an apple and fat is a marshmallow. A pound of apples may look like less than a pound of marshmallows, but it’s not- simply more volume.Where can people find you on social media, and what kind of content do you share to keep your followers motivated?You can find us on both Instagram (@bodysculptorsllc) and Facebook at Body Sculptors LLC. We regularly share recipes, motivational stories, and fitness tips. We would love for you to give us a follow!How do you stay motivated and maintain your energy levels as a fitness instructor?I get motivated seeing my clients reach their goals. I believe you just need one person to believe in you and I am that person!What sets Body Sculptors apart from other fitness centers in the Spartanburg area, and what can new clients expect when they walk through your doors?Body Sculptors is TRULY a private training studio. When you walk through the doors for a session, it’s just you and your trainer. All of our meal plans and work outs are designed specifically for the individual and their goals and as a member, you will have 24/7 access via text with Ron. Now THAT is something you won’t find anywhere else!I take my job at Body Sculptors very seriously and when you hire me - your goals become my goals. I love changing peoples lives- from strong high school athletes to senior adults looking to improve their quality of life through fitness and nutrition. Give me a call today at (864) 415-9370 and we can get a plan started for you!- Ronnie Kirby

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BELLE’S BOOKSHELFPLAYS WELL WITH OTHERSBY SOPHIE BRICKMANIt takes a village...just not this one.Annie Lewin is at the end of her rope. She’s a mother of three young children, her workaholic husband is never around, and the vicious competition for spots in New York City’s kindergartens is heating up. A New York Times journalist-turned-parenting-advice-columnist for an internet start-up, Annie can’t help but judge the insanity of it all—even as she ﬁnds herself going to impossible lengths to secure the best spot for her own son.As Annie comes to terms with the inﬁnitesimal odds of success, her intensifying rivalry with hotshot lawyer Belinda Brenner—a deliciously hateful nemesis, what with her perfectly curated bento box lunches and eortless Instagram chic—pushes her to the brink. Of course, this newly raw and unhinged version of Annie is great for the advice column: the more she spins out, the more clicks and comments she gets.But when she commits a ghastly social faux pas that goes viral, she’s forced to confront the question: is she really any better than the cutthroat parents she always judged?A shimmering epistolary novel incorporating emails, group texts, advice columns, newspaper proﬁles, and more, Plays Well with Others is a whip-smart, genuinely funny romp through the mineﬁeld of modern motherhood. But beneath its fast-paced, satirical veneer, Brickman gives us a fresh, open-hearted, all-too-real take on what it means to be a parent—ﬁerce love, craziness, and all.ABOUT THE AUTHOR //Sophie Brickman is a writer, reporter and editor based in New York City. Her work has appeared in The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Saveur, The San Francisco Chronicle, the Best Food Writing compilation, and the Best American Science Writing compilation, among other places. She is currently a columnist at The Guardian. She wrote a monthly column for Elle interviewing influential women—including Nancy Pelosi and Joyce Carol Oates—about their paths to success, served as Executive Editor of a travel publication launched jointly between Hearst and Airbnb, and was the Features Editor at Saveur. As a staff reporter at The San Francisco Chronicle, she won first place in the 2011 Association of Food Journalists’ feature writing category, for a piece about Napa’s French Laundry restaurant, and third place for best column. In a previous life, after attending the French Culinary Institute, she worked the line at Gramercy Tavern, making risotto and lamb ragù for the lunch crowd. And before that, she graduated with honors from Harvard College, where her studies in social theory and philosophy prepared her for very few practical endeavors. Hence the desire to learn how to chop an onion correctly.Her ﬁrst book, Baby, Unplugged, about the intersection of parenting and technology, was published by HarperOne in Fall 2021, received a starred review from Publisher’s Weekly, and landed her a spot on Good Morning America. Her first novel, Plays Well With Others—a satirical epistolary romp through New York City, following the life of one mother as it begins to unravel in spectacular fashion—will be published by William Morrow in summer 2024.

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36LORIE EDENFIELD GOODEART TEACHERFor 36 years, Lorie Goode has either been a student or a teacher in Spartanburg District 5. She’s seen dramatic growth and change over more than three de-cades, but there’s nowhere she’d rather be. “I remember the day I received my very first teaching paycheck in the fall of 1993,” recalls Lorie, an art teacher at River Ridge Elementary School. “My immediate thought was ‘I can’t believe I get paid to do something I sincerely love so much!’ Fast forward to today, and I honestly still feel the same way.” This August she begins her 32nd year with District 5, but this school year she carries a new title: District Teacher of the Year. “I cannot imagine a better place to devote my ca-reer as a teacher!”Congratulations on being named teacher of the year! What’s it like to receive this honor?Rarely do I find myself at loss for words, but the day our superintendent came to River Ridge and announced that I was selected as District Teacher of the Year,I was completely stunned!It is such an honor for me to represent a district that has played such an important role in my life so far, as a student, parent, and educator.What inspired you to become a schoolteacher?During college at Converse University, God made it clear to me that teaching would be my mission field. What better way to communicate and share my artistic passion than to pass it onto others through teaching!When deciding whom to teach, the uninhibited, playful imagination of children attracted me the most. What a joy it would be to channel such creative energy and feelings into their artwork! Children, even adolescents, seem to be less expressive verbally than adults and can usually draw what they feel more easily than they can verbalize.How would you describe your teaching philosophy?My teaching philosophy is very student-centered.I believe that students can do great work at any age, and my job is to inspire and empower them to think and work like artists. In my classroom, I am the facilitator and guide in giving students opportunities to create and solve artistic problems and express themselves, pushing them out of their comfort zone. My goal is to spend time with every child in class before they leave my room each day. With over 500 students a week in my art room, that’s no easy feat! I believe students will listen and be more involved when they know that I care about them!Do you have any special back-to-school traditions?When my two boys were young, I would mark their height on each of their door frames the night before school started to show them how much they had grown over the summer months. The morning of their first day back, I made their favorite breakfast and added a special note in each of their lunchboxes.In my classroom, my tradition is to have the students begin creating art on day one of art class instead of only reviewing rules and procedures. I also begin that day by giving each of the students a portion of a collaborative art project to design. I use this to demonstrate how unique, essential, and beautiful they each are in their own way.What’s your best back-to-school tip for students and families?Take the time to tour your child’s school if it is new to them, but most importantly, meet your child’s teacher(s) and create a positive and supportive atmosphere for your child to enter on the ﬁrst day. Research shows that a child is more likely to act out in class or behave poorly if there is not a good teacher-parent relationship.How would you describe your classroom aesthetic?Many years ago, I painted a large banner to display one of my favorite quotes by artist Pablo Picasso, ‘Every Child is an Artist.’That banner has since hung near the front of my room to remind my students that I believe in each one of them and that they all have something special to contribute. My art room surrounds my students with prints of famous art, students’ artwork, informational bulletin boards, whimsical decor, inspirational quotes, and portions of collaborative projects created with my students from previous years.It is often filled with the sound of relaxing music. As a teacher, I am enthusiastic, sometimes funny, and always energetic! I want my students to feel my enthusiasm when they enter my room!What is your favorite part of the school year?September!!At this point, we have all begun to settle into the year, yet we still feel the newness of a fresh start!This time reminds me of a quote by Tom Hanks from one of my favorite movies, You’ve Got Mail, ”Don’t you just love…. the fall? Makes me want to buy school supplies. I would send you a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils if I knew your name and address.”What’s your favorite elementary school memory from your childhood?While living in South Georgia, the elementary school I attended performed two musicals during the school year. It was so thrilling to come together as a group to perform.Who was your favorite teacher and why?Brenda Story, my senior English teacher at Byrnes High School. She treated her students as valuable individuals, not just another face in her classroom. She set high expectations for each of us and challenged us to be the best version of ourselves. I always knew she cared and had my best interest at heart.

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41Audrey Gore’s artistic journey began with a creative spark at the age of three and has blossomed into a vibrant career in art and design. From her early days of imaginative play to becoming a renowned artist and designer, Audrey’s story is filled with creativity, passion, and resilience.In this issue, we chat with Audrey about her artistic inspirations, her unique creative process, and how she balances the worlds of fine art and design. Plus, she shares her favorite summer activities and travel spots. Get ready to be inspired by the colorful and imaginative world of Audrey Gore!Can you tell us about your journey as an artist and designer? What first inspired you to pursue a career in the arts? My mom told me that when I was around three years old, I got into her yarn basket and created the outline of a face on the floor and she was shocked. I have always loved creating and took every moment growing up to stretch my imagination. My junior year of high school I was accepted into a fine arts program with The Academy. I graduated with a BA in Studio Arts from Coastal Carolina University and later furthered my education in Digital Arts. I was selected to intern as a Graphic Designer with Warren Miller Entertainment in Boulder, CO—it was this experience that propelled me into my career. After a decade of working as the Art & Creative Director within the marketing world, I decided I wanted a change of pace. I accepted a position as the Assistant Art Director with Dorothy Shain and loved it until Covid hit and, like so many others, I was furloughed. During this time, I shared some cards I painted on Instagram and offered to send them to anyone who wanted one for free, as a way to spread joy in a scary and uncertain time. Quickly, I began to receive art commissions in addition to more design projects. I always wanted to have my own business and things were naturally progressing in that direction so I decided to take the leap and here we are today! Could you walk us through your creative process when starting a new piece of fine art or a design project? How do you approach each medium differently? When I set out to create a new piece or collection of art, I typically need a lot of down time to simply sit and think. It’s often when I’m traveling, listening to music or out on a walk that some of my very best ideas arrive. I’ll sketch some things as ‘visual notes’ if you will and write out any specific ideas I want to include. I then use these to create a study. Once I’m ready to get to work, I gather everything I will need in true ‘mise en place’ fashion and begin creating. My design process is all about creative problem solving and has become second nature to me. I have a specific questionnaire that I ask each of my clients to complete. Research is always first, then I create a mood board and select a color palette which is vital for me, as this helps to guide all of my design decisions moving forward. I’ll then begin creating the custom designs and selecting typefaces (sometimes I will hand-draw the type but it just depends on the client). I present two design selections for review. Once a selection is made, I will implement any revisions if desired before fine tuning the final design. From there, I export and finalize all deliverables and collateral, as well as, branding guidelines for my clients.How do you balance your time and energy between creating fine art and running a design studio? I’m naturally self-motivated and organized, which helps tremendously. Working in the marketing world is crazy…if you have ever seen the show Mad Men, it really is just like that. I believe my prior agency experience trained me to be deadline oriented and to always expect the unexpected. However, I can be a bit of a perfectionist, so I have had to learn to delegate certain tasks from my plate. What are some of the unique challenges you face when working on original art compared to commissioned design work? When working on a commission there may be a specific color palette that the interior designer has created or that already exists in the space, in addition to any sizes and/or specifics requested that have a special purpose or meaning to the client. However, with original art I have the freedom to create without specific parameters. Tell us some of your favorite things to do and favorite places to visit in the summer! Recently, I returned from traveling throughout France and it’s one of those magical places that I’ll always find myself visiting. I grew up not far from Pawleys Island, SC and was given my middle name after the sculpture artist, Anna Hyatt Huntington of Brookgreen Gardens, so you’ll find me there and on the beach every summer when I return home to visit family. Some summertime favorites are dining al fresco, clipping fresh blooms, front porch hangs and taking our four mini dachshunds for walks at the park. AudreyGore.com@audreyannagoreARTIST PROFILEAUDREY GORE

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45As the back-to-school season kicks into gear, we caught up with Jill Morris, the enthusiastic and inspiring force behind Hub City Runners in Spartanburg. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to get started, Jill’s passion for running and her love for the local community shine through in everything she does. In this interview, we dive into the story of Hub City Runners, uncover Jill’s favorite running spots around town, and learn about the personalized fittings and top-notch gear that keep Spartanburg on the move. Get ready to be inspired by the heartwarming stories, exciting events, and a few fun surprises that make Hub City Runners a local favorite. Lace up your sneakers and join us for a lively chat with Jill!What inspired you to start Hub City Runners, and why did you choose Spartanburg as your base? I grew up here in Spartanburg and I love the people and the area. I cannot imagine being anywhere else.What are some of your favorite running trails or spots in Spartanburg? Some of my favorites are Tyger River Park, Cottonwood Trail, Rail Trail, & Dorman High School.How do you help customers ﬁnd the perfect pair of running shoes? Do you oer any special ﬁttings or assessments?Fittings are very customer specific. Some customers are looking for better shoes… because their feet ache, maybe they work 12 hr shifts, work on concrete floors, work at the hospital or they are a runner or athlete. So much goes into the initial evaluation. We also offer a free computerized fitting on our Aetrex machine that evaluates your arches, width, size, pronation, instep, and so much more.What brands or types of athletic gear are most popular at your store right now? We offer Brooks, Hoka, On Running, Oofos, and Diadora. We also provide shoes for kids, offering Diadora, On, and Adidas. Our most sold shoe would be the Hoka Clifton. The Hokas are very popular because of the cushion. The most bought accessory would be our swiftwick socks, Goodr sunglasses, and our active wear by Mona.Can you share a memorable story or moment with a customer that highlights what makes Hub City Runners special? There are so many! When I think of the stories the ones that come most to my mind are when covid hit our area and retail slowed down and another would be when I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. The community came together during both of these huge life changing events to keep my doors open. The relationships that we have made over the years are simply irreplaceable and I am so grateful for the community that Hub City Runners has brought me!What upcoming events or group runs are you most excited about this season? We run every Monday night at the store, so I always look forward to a Monday!Our groups run a lot of different races, but one race that always brings us together is the Turkey Trot Run in downtown Spartanburg on Thanksgiving morning. It’s always a favorite for everyone! We also have a small pop up shop downtown at Market on Main!What’s a little-known fact about Hub City Runners that you think our readers would ﬁnd interesting? I formed a run group that met up at Dorman back in 2014. We started with six people. It grew to over fifty people and still today is a thriving and growing group of people who want to stay fit and healthy. One night while on a run, a few ladies were talking about how we needed a run store on the Westside of Spartanburg. What most don’t know is that my first job was at a shoe store. My Mom owned a shoe store in Wellford, but we sold it when she passed away. This was over 29 years ago. I guess hearing these ladies’ requests and my love for running ignited a spark within me and I took a chance. I guess things do come full circle!How does being a local business in Spartanburg inﬂuence the way you operate and connect with the community? It helps me see everything from a different lens. My team and I get to connect with everyone- doctors, lawyers, nurses, local business owners, homemakers etc. Everybody has a unique story and is a blessing to us when they walk through our doors. It really helps us see and meet our community by being a part of it.What tips do you have for someone just starting out with running or looking to improve their performance? 1. Get off the couch. 2. Join a local run group. The hardest part is getting out the door. We have so many local run groups in our area and by joining one, you get accountability and encouragement, not to mention life long friendships.Can you give us a sneak peek into any new products or services you’re planning to introduce soon? The Diadora shoe line will be our newest addition to Hub City Runners. It is an italian made shoe that is doing really well in the US.Hub City Runners has been a part of the upstate community for eight years. We are very grateful to our community for keeping us in business and continuing to support us year after year. We look forward to serving you for many years to come!- JillHUB CITY RUNNERSPHOTOS BY ALLIE HOLLIFIELD

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48Nonie’s Boutique Gifts and Custom Frame Shoppe is a quintessential southern bou-tique. Tonya Proctor started her journey as an entrepreneur in 1979 when her parents bought her a small needlework shop Calle The Patchwork Attic in Union, SC. In 1982, she moved her business to the former Gault Grocery Store on 700 West Main Street. Thus began the transformational journey of the beloved store, Nonie’s. The next 42 years brought stories of striving, overcoming, and flourishing.Throughout the years, Tonya, or as I call her, Nonie, has transformed her boutique to reect the modern southern woman. Her commitment to honor traditions while also bringing in new styles and ideas has been the driving force behind the success of her business. She possesses a unique ability to blend the old and the new, creating a harmonious balance that appeals to a wide range of customers. Her innovative approach has not only set her apart from her competitors, but has also allowed Nonie’s to thrive in a highly competitive market.It is not just Tonya’s business acumen that sets her apart. Her genuine and unpretentious kindheartedness as a hostess is truly remarkable. When you step into her boutique, you are not just a customer, but a welcomed guest. Tonya’s warm and inviting nature instantly makes you feel at home, creating an atmosphere that is both comfortable and enjoyable.The transformation from crafting supplies and endearing gifts to a boutique for the modern woman has been a labor of love. Her carefully curated collection of stunningly beautiful, well-made products, line the shelves and tables quietly waiting to be selected for the perfect purpose. In August, the business will be celebrating its 45th anniversary with an Open House. The event will be an unveiling of the newest transformation of the store.Though the business has transformed and changed throughout the seasons of life, one thing has never changed and that is the unwavering southern charm you encounter when you open the doors to the shop which bears her name and are greeted by the owner, Nonie.

Belle August 24

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