soNCsavvy

Event Recap|6th Annual Bull City Food & Beer Experience @BullCityEXP @DPAC #Durham #Food #Beer #Event

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Yesterday, SobeSavvy.com joined a few thousand others at DPAC for the 6th Annual Bull City Food & Beer Experience! The word, “experience” accurately depicts this now iconic annual event that I had the pleasure of attending last year and sharing with you again. Enjoying 30 restaurants paired with 30 beers sounds like a great way to spend a ‘Sunday Funday’ especially while raising money and awareness for the Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association.

Pale Ale, Stout, IPA, and various ciders were all properly represented here. Small local breweries served their craft beer and stood side by side with international powerhouse breweries. They all coexisted perfectly. A few liquor brands, such as Social House Vodka, also served up some samples of their spirits. Durham has such an incredible food and beer culture and this event does an amazing job showcasing it! Check out my facebook photo album highlighting more from this event, here.

Taking up space on all 3 levels of the beautiful DPAC lobbies, this event is always a crowd pleaser and this year was no different. Inside the actual theatre, they had the Stella Artois Onstage Experience featuring County Fare. This year the food in this area was served by various food trucks based in the Triangle. These meals on wheels have now become a staple in the food scene not just here but nationwide. Guests mingled on stage and enjoyed some awesome live music by Big Fat Gap and beer garden games like bean toss. One of my favorites were the dumplings by the food truck Chirba Chirba. One dumpling was pork, the other offering were their veggie dumplings. Simply delicious.

Guess what else coexisted perfectly with all that beer? FOOD OF COURSE ! Over 30 restaurants of every imaginable genre/cuisine was there. From Italian to sushi and EVERYTHING in between. The restaurants participating gave unlimited samples of the dish they were serving. What also makes this event unique is that most tables paired a specific brew for the specific restaurant dish. Some foods pair better with a stout or pale ale and vice versa. Attendees didn’t have to wander far to find the perfect beer for their dish, it was right there alongside it! My favorite part was the opportunity to meet and talk with the Chefs from some of my favorite local restaurants.

If I had to use one word to describe this event, I would say ‘Incredible’! Where else can you experience local food, beer, beverage,craft artisians, all in one place?! The foodie in me appreciates organized events like this that I can partner with and celebrate what is offered here. Watch this video for recap of all the food + beer + fun!

Thanks for reading and hope to see you next year! Cheers 🍻

Do you have a favorite food and beer pairing? Let me know in the comments below!

My experience opening night viewing @theBlackPanther Movie @Raleighwood Cinema Grill ! #BlackPanther #WakandaForever 

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Disclosure: I received complimentary media passes for viewing of first showing at Raleighwood, however opinions about my experience are my own.


In anticipation of BLACK PANTHER coming to theaters it was with great pleasure that I saw Raleighwood, “Triangles’ top rated movie theater, and only truly unique restaurant since 1993” was showing the movie on Thursday 2/15 !! I have heard about this cinema and how you can enjoy great food and drinks while watching hit movies in a casual and comfortable environment. Raleighwood hosted myself and a guest (my friend, fellow blogger Jen of jenoni.com rolled with me) to a girls night out in Raleigh to see a movie we all have been waiting for…BLACK PANTHER!

Why is this movie so important for us to see? Because as African-Americans we rarely, if ever get a chance to see ourselves as a super hero. Marvel Comic has solved that issue with this movie. Without giving away any spoilers, I will say this movie was Ahhh-maaazzzing! From the costumes, to the script, the setting and of course the great acting and action, this is movie that needs to be seen by EVERYONE! I especially loved the representation of powerful women in this film, which showed a great balance of the women leading and serving. SobeSavvy Tip: Stay past the credits (both of them) for movie extras. Just when you think it’s over. It ain’t over! You don’t want to miss what Marvel Studios have planned for BLACK PANTHER!

Synopsis: Marvel Studios’ BLACK PANTHER follows T’Challa who, after the death of his father, the King of Wakanda, returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation to succeed to the throne and take his rightful place as king. But when a powerful old enemy reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king—and Black Panther—is tested when he is drawn into a formidable conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk. Faced with treachery and danger, the young king must rally his allies and release the full power of Black Panther to defeat his foes and secure the safety of his people and their way of life.

Check out this cool featurette for Marvel Studios’ BLACK PANTHER about how the film went from the page to the screen!

Stay informed….

Like BLACK PANTHER on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlackPantherMovie

Follow BLACK PANTHER on Twitter: https://twitter.com/theblackpanther

Follow Marvel Studios on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marvelstudios/

BLACK PANTHER arrives TODAY in theatres everywhere on February 16, 2018! If you live in Raleigh, plan to see it at RALEIGHWOOD for a unique movie with dining experience. Get there early and choose from the various seating and table arrangements inside the theater. They serve food, beer and wine to be consumed before and during the feature film. We split an order of their chicken wings and a order of steak fries and it was pretty good! The whole experience was great and I plan to go back to see BLACK PANTHER again for the $5.50 matinee today!! Yep..it was that great !

Have you seen or plan to go see BLACK PANTHER? Share your thoughts below! Thanks for reading! Wakanda Forever!

Raleighwood Cinema Grill

6609 Falls of Neuse Road

Raleigh, NC 27615

Event Recap |Fun Times at #GalentinesDayPJBrunch !Celebrating #GalentinesDay in #Raleigh #NC

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Product gifted to SobeSavvy.com by Bedlam Vodka, Hard Candy and Lit Cosmetics

I have never celebrated Galentine’s Day before until this past Saturday when the lovely Nekeyeta Newkirk (Raleigh’s BBU Director, Stylist & Blogger @the_key2style) invited me along with some fellow bloggers and closest friends to a Galentine’s Day Pajama Jam Brunch. I love a great theme party as well as a chance to fellowship with other creatives, so I found me some PJs (shout out Carolina Thrift) and was ready to network and party! But first, I got in a quick mini photoshoot at home because that’s what we bloggers do!

Pajama Set: Soma Intimates, Embraceable Pajama Pants + Top French Scroll Black | Lipstick: Hard Candy Fierce Effects Matte , Crave

If you are like me and never celebrated Galentine’s Day before, it occurs on February 13 and its a chance for women to get together with their friends and celebrate sisterhood, friendship, Valentine’s Day and self-love! It’s a chance to connect with your tribe and support each other. We did all of that over some amazing food and drink of course. Take a look:

THE FOOD + DRINK

The Brunch menu was an amazing fusion of island and southern cuisine with buttermilk waffles including donut, blueberry and red waffle flavors and savory chicken wings sponsored by Big C Waffles + delicious strawberry cupcakes provided by Southern Lady Sweets ! Cohost Laing of Laing & Co., @justlaing, brought the vibes of the island with her saltfish and jerk chicken. Other brunch items like grits, andouille sausage, dumplings, eggs were also on the buffet style spread.

Sangria and speciality cocktails made with Durham’s own Bedlam Vodka were available to enjoy. I highly suggest when you are going to a party and asked to bring an adult beverage, #BringTheBedlam! And feel free to make this Galentine Martini aka Galentini to celebrate on Galentine’s Day or anytime!

THE GIFT BAGS

Parties can be a drag without some kinda of swag..that is a gift bag for your guests to take home to remember how fun it was! The #GalentinesPJBrunch had some great swag bag sponsors. Make sure you check out these brands and upcoming projects:

Original Artwork from @Millifemme

Candles from @habibaloveskenton

Satin Bonnets from @captivatingcaps

Shea Butter Bath Soaps from @nailahs_shea

Upcoming Events

Darkness Rising Project ~ @castcarlita

Upcoming event @baabsbeauty

Upcoming event @shopnoblecompanion

I would like to thank the following SobeSavvy.com gift bag sponsors for the ‘Galentines Day Pajama Jam Brunch’. We randomnly selected a few ladies to go home with the following goodies:

Bedlam Vodka crew super soft t-shirts + Bedlam Vodka mini bottles | @bedlamvodka #bedlamvodka #bringthebedlam

Hard Candy cosmetics | @hardcandylife #hardcandymakeup #hardcandylife

Lit Cosmetics | @litcosmetics #LITCOSMETICS Follow Facebook: www.facebook.com/litcosmetics

…And Crabtree Valley Mall (where I recently went shopping for #MyVioletValentineseries and dining at Brio for Valentine’s Day Preview) and picked up sample goodies from Belk, complimentary dining coupons from Brio and some Crabtree and Evelyn hand cream.

We all had a wonderful time filled with laughs, good eats, great conversation, dancing and pictures of course. Find more of the fun at #GalentinesPJBrunch #BlogBaeBrunch, my instastories @SobeSavvy and my YouTube recap. Until next time ladies…

The Galentines Day PJ Brunch 2018 in Raleigh,NC was so much fun!

Have you celebrated Galentine’s Day before. How do you plan to celebrate this year? Let me know below and Happy Galentine’s & Valentines’s Day to you! 💖💜💖

Part II #MyVioletValentine Shopping + #ValentinesDay Gift Ideas ~ University Place NC @UPlaceNC #chapelhill

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Hey there! I am back for Part II of #MYVIOLETVALENTINE series (click here if you missed Part I). Today, I am sharing my UNIVERSITY PLACE shopping fun and finds with the Pantone Color of the Year- Ultra Violet in mind. My daughter #outandaboutAva (aka my favorite shopping partner) and I headed back to the mall where we did most of her back to school shopping, University Place. Located in Chapel Hill, this mall is known as …”THE place for shopping, dining, entertainment & the arts, fitness & beauty.” This visit, we are on a mission to find purple purchases and Violet themed gift ideas for Valentine’s Day. Here’s what we found:

•Accessories for Girls at Glee Kids

From hair accessories, like bows and headbands to adorable (and adjustable) rings, Glee Kids had some items that I think any little girl would love for a Violet Valentine!

• Fun Gifts for Girls at The Red Hen

The Red Hen always has unique items and great prices, so I was not surprised that we found something for a Violet color themed gift. If you are making a gift basket for your kid on Valentime’s Day, fill it with little toys from The Red Hen. We left with this Girl Bat Cape because my daughter said it was going to activate her shopping powers and help with finding more #MyVioletValentine items!

• Women’s Apparel & Accessories at Dina Porter

Dina Porter is a classic boutique for shoppers interested in one of a kind quality items. Looking for a unique scarf or sweater? Dina Porter has it all! There were all shades of purple in that store and many eclectic selections, like the ultraviolet polka dot raincoat with matching tote bag!

• Food Speciality Items, Flowers & more at Southern Season

Plan to wine and dine your Valentine at home? Is your special someone a foodie? Then a gourmet gift and flowers from Southern Season would be appreciated. I absolutely love that store, especially the organization of their wine section. Surprisingly, I found lavender caramel chocolate which is going to be perfect for #myVioletValentine theme, don’t you agree?!

• Greetings and NoteCards from The Frame & Print Shop

Art galleries always catch my eye, which made me stop in The Frame & Print Shop. I found the most delightful violet Valentines Day card as well as some great Monet inspired note cards. Nothing says pure romance like a handwritten love note!

• Health & Beauty Finds from BE PURE BEAUTY

Be Pure Beauty sells natural products made of clean, non-toxic ingredients. At this store, you’ll find the best of green beauty brands that are conscious of keeping people, the planet, plants and animals safe. They sell makeup, skincare products, bath bombs and more! I found some lavender scented bath bombs and eyeshadow (color ‘Soiree’) that would make great #myVioletValentine gifts!

• Scented Candles & Fragrances from Bath & Body Works

You may be familiar with Bath & Body Works for their fragrant personal care products. You can always find flavorful indulgences, including shower gels, lotions, candles and accessories. I am a big fan of gifting candles for any occassion and for #myVioletvalentine, a lavender scented or any violet purple candle would be a great choice!

• Jewelry at Goldworks

Did you know you can create jewelry at Goldworks in North Carolina? This store specializes in custom jewelry designs, in yellow, white and rose gold, platinum, silver, Mokume gane, and much more. You will find a variety of designs from traditional to truly original and artistic designs. Visit Goldworks jewelry store and gallery to have one of the professional jewelry designers create a unique and original gift for your special Valentine. Jewelry is always a great gift idea and right now for the month of February, the gemstone is Amethyst! It’s the perfect violet hue and fits #myVioletValentine theme. Goldworks is also currently having a 50% off sale on select items you don’t want to miss.

SobeSavvy Tip: Check out this fun Galentine’s event happening TONIGHT, 2/8/18 7pm-9pm at Kidzu Children’s Museum inside UNIVERSITY PLACE.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post as much as I did creating a fun way to be on trend this Valentine’s Day with the Pantone Color of the Year, Ultra Violet. At University Place, shopping all shades of purple was such a fun time and we found some great choices for #myVioletValentine 💜!

Leslie, Lifestyle Blogger & Founder of SobeSavvy.com and daughter, #outandaboutAva enjoy a day of shopping fun for #MYVioletValentine at University Place in Chapel Hill

UNIVERSITY PLACE
201 S. ESTES DRIVE CHAPEL HILL, NC 27514 919.945.1900
http://www.universityplacenc.com

Celebrating #MyVioletValentine with a Romantic Dine at #18Seaboard in #Raleigh ! #seafood #creativecuisine

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A few days ago I introduced a series on SobeSavvy.com called #MyVioletValentine. I encourage all of you to think about putting the color red aside and consider celebrating with the Pantone color of the year in mind which is “Ultra Violet”! Beautiful shades of violet and purple can be found everywhere in nature and also in food. One of those food instances can be found at 18 Seaboard.

Located at Seaboard Station near downtown Raleigh, this restaurant opened its doors in 2006 and is owned by Chef Jason Smith and his wife Lauren. 18 Seaboard serves contemporary Southern inspired dishes with over 60% of ingredients sourced from North Carolina farms, ranches, fishmongers and dairies. We were there recently to enjoy a romantic pre-Valentine’s Day date. They have a wonderful lunchtime menu which featured alot of dishes that satisfied the seafoodie in me! But first…

COCKTAILS/STARTERS

After being promptly seated at a nice table for two we began with two Kir Royale cocktails. Again, I had #MyVioletValentine in mind when we ordered these but alas they photograph more of a blush color. Nevertheless, still a great champagne cocktail to kickoff a romantic dine.

We ordered two starters of Sneads Ferry She-Crab Soup with sherry reduction and a Purple Sweet Potato Bisque. Now this bisque arrived to the table looking too good to eat! Not only did it look pretty and purple, but the taste was pretty amazing.You know what they say, you eat with your eyes first, but I had to close mine and just savor each spoonful!

My favorite out of the two starters was the she crab soup. It had a generous amount of crab meat and just the right touch of sherry. We both are from Maryland and agreed that this soup was not only flavorful but reminded us of our hometown.

CHEF’S ENTREÉS

While there are various choices for lunch we chose two seafood entreés. My husband ordered the Cornmeal-Crusted Carolina Classics Catfish w/champagne tarragon butter and a unique pecan grit cake. It was fresh, flaky and delicious. Oh and the sauteed spinach and apple collard slaw offered not only a brightness to the dish but paired well with the fish.

I went with the Bo Bromhal SafeChild Shrimp & Grits. The restaurant donates 10% of all proceeds from ordering this dish to this amazing Wake County Child advocacy Program. Besides a great cause this was a GREAT.GREAT.DISH. I have had innumerable Shrimp & Grit dishes over my lifetime and I vote this dish as one of the absolute best interpretations of this southern iconic dish! Amazing is really an understatement.

We got a chance to speak with both the General Manager (Brandy, who can suggest a great dry white wine to pair with the seafood dishes) and Chef-Proprietor Jason Smith, whom I had a chance to hear speak at Feed the Dialogue dinner event. He is very personable, talented and passionate about the food served at his restaurants. Also our waiter, who advised to call him “D”, provided excellent service and added to our delightful dining experience.

DESSERTS

We ended our wonderful afternoon on a sweet note by trying the Pecan Pie Creme Brulee and a Mug of Hot Chocolate Cake. Both are creatively made desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth. I mean how cute is this cookie of our state of North Carolina?!

I highly recommend you take your special someone to this restaurant to celebrate life, love or just the color Violet on Valentine’s Day. Anytime you want fantastic food served with love, make reservations to dine at 18 Seaboard!

18 SEABOARD

18 Seaboard Ave

Raleigh,NC 27604

Part I #MyVioletValentine Shopping Picks + Fun #ValentineGift Ideas ~ CrabTree Valley Mall @ShopCrabtree

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#MyVioletValentine Shopping Experience at CrabTree Valley Mall

If you have been following my Instagram @SobeSavvy, then you may have seen my instastories and posts about a new series I am starting just in time for Valentine’s Day called #MyVioletValentine. 💜

In honor of the Pantone Color of the Year: Ultra Violet, I want to inspire you to switch up from the usual color red and make violet purple purchases this Valentine’s Day for yourself or loved ones. With over 200+ stores and restaurants, Crabtree Valley Mall is the perfect place in Raleigh to kick off this series! There are so many great places to ‘SHOP in the name of Love’ just like the sign outside of Bevello says…so let’s get started!

Here are a few ideas for Girls:

Accessories from Claire’s

New Athleta Girl fashions at Athleta

Hallmark for cards + candy

There’s also Purple Disney characters like Doc McStuffins, Sofia the First, Rapunzel available at The Disney Store and fun fashions like this graphic tee from The Children’s Place!

Speaking of fashion, everywhere I looked in the mall there were awesome sales on purple clothing,shoes..take your pick! You must remember to gift yourselves ladies this Valentine’s Day. Check out these gift ideas for HER:

Purple Sweater, Violet Floral Top from American Eagle Outfitters

Find February’s gemstone, Amethyst and other purple gemstones in any of the jewelry stores including Swarovski at Crabtree Valley Mall. I found a beautiful cocktail ring at Sears, which is one of three anchor department stores at the mall.

You can also find Handbags from Coach or Michael Kors, purple candles from Yankee Candle, and shades of violet at your favorite cosmetic stores: Bare Minerals, MAC or Sephora.

Loving this MAC matte lipstick, color: Heroine

As I began to look for things my husband would like, I noticed there were quite a few His & Her Options throughout the mall. Got yours eyes on gifts for a special guy? Here’s some ideas for HIM:

Cool Shades from Aeropostale

..and Sunglass Hut!

Everyone loves a good smelling man right?! Pick up a nice smelling fragrance for the both of you at any of the anchor department stores, Sephora and these from Aeropostale.

Remember those tops I saw at American Eagle Outfitters? While there, I noticed boxers that were perfect for #MyVioletValentine! I plan to box up these (along with a few other surprises) and present on Valentine’s Day, which is just 9 days away!

SobeSavvy Tip: Still can’t decide what to get for him or her? Give “The Gift of Choice”, a Crabtree Valley Mall Gift Card available for as little as $5 or as much as $500! Gift Cards are available at Guest Services.

We had so much fun shopping for #MyVioletValentine at Crabtree Valley Mall and hope you are inspired to make your way there soon!

CRABTREE VALLEY MALL

4325 Glenwood Avenue

Raleigh, NC 27612

shopcrabtree.com | @shopcrabtree #shopcrabtree

4 Reasons To Have a #DayDate for #ValentinesDay at @iPOLISHED Nail Bar #Raleigh #GetPolishedRDU

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Hello February! Did you know it was Creative Romance Month? That’s right, you don’t have to wait until Valentine’s Day to celebrate your love or show off your romance skills, you can start now! If you are in NC, I have just the place you should go: Polished Nail Bar! In a previous post, I shared highlights of the Grand Opening event of Raleigh’s newest premier nail and waxing salon located in downtown’s hip Glenwood South District. I have been back on my own and with a good friend but today I surprised my best friend/husband with a visit to Polished Nail Bar for a pampering day date. While there are so many reasons to come here for a date, take a look at my Top Four:

1. LUXURY PEDICURE THRONES

Sit back, relax and enjoy your luxury pedicure on a throne fit for a King and Queen! Those chairs, along with the decor, are not only appealing to the eye but you can set it to massage your back while you receive your services.

2. COMPLIMENTARY MIMOSAS

Wine, Beer, Soft Drinks..and Mimosas are available for free with your services. While relaxing on your pedicure throne, imagine sipping on mimosas and then a hand appears to refill your glass! Refills are complimentary too…just remember to drink responsibly.

3. GREAT VARIETY OF OPI COLORS

As soon as you walk in take notice of the variety of colors from nail polish brands such as OPI and Essie. You can find the latest in OPI nail polish colors, like the new Lisbon Collection. I can definitely see me selecting any of those in the Spring but today I chose a purple color for #MyVioletValentine series (that I’ll be sharing more about soon..so stay tuned!)

4. COUPLE-FRIENDLY

Just like us, this lovely pair was there enjoying a pampering moment. Women, as well as Men (and little divas too) are welcomed. My husband commented on how comfortable he was and appreciated the cleanliness. We definitely will be coming back to Polished Nail Bar!

SobeSavvy Tip: Looking for Valentine’s Day gift idea? Gift Certificates are available. For a complete list of services, visit ipolished.com. Follow on Facebook at Polished Nail Bar RDU, Instagram @polished_nail_bar, and Twitter @iPolished.

Polished Nail Bar

222 Glenwood Avenue Suite 105

Raleigh,NC 27603

919.615.0092 | http://www.IPOLISHED.com

Open Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m., and Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

#FoodieFriday Feature| 5 Reasons to ❤ @BuiltAlston in @ShopAlston + FREE Tots 12/8- 12/10 #BuiltBurgers

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“Hey, a new burger spot is opening, wanna check it out?” That’s how I asked my husband to join me for the VIP Grand Opening of BUILT Custom Burgers, which is located in the Triangle’s New Alston Town Center. I want to think we all have heard about a new burger bar more than we care to remember. Part of it is our assumption that a burger is a burger is a burger. WELL, have I got some news for you….BUILT Custom Burgers is a speciality burger experience that offers a unique take on the classic burger! 

 I asked the marketing manager what sets them apart from the other various burger chains and he responded by challenging me to Five Questions regarding those “other” burger places:

1. Can you choose from 3 different bun choices like Brioche, Wheat or Gluten Free buns?

2. Do they have Applewood Smoked Bacon as a FREE topping? 

3. Do they have a vegan burger option?

4. Is guacamole a free topping at those places? 

5. Are they antibiotic and hormone free?

These 5 Reasons alone would be reason enough to love this place, but ultimately none of that means much if the burger is not good. After trying the ‘Carolina Style’ and the ‘The L.A. WAY’ we both can say their burgers are beyond GOOD! Both were juicy and uber flavorful.  We learned that the patties are made with 100% Angus Beef that is vegetarian-fed. You can also choose all-natural chicken, turkey or vegan veggie burgers made fresh daily from 11 different ingredients – all hand-formed and grilled to order.

No matter if you choose one of their suggested favorites or if you “build your own burger” from scratch, you can’t go wrong. They are a serious contender in any burger war that anyone wants to wage! With four premium protein options, five cheeses, 20 unlimited toppings, 10 flavorful sauces and the choice of three breads or two fresh greens, guests are encouraged to build a burger or bowl to meet their individual preferences. 

SobeSavvy Tip : Starting Friday, Dec. 8, through Sunday, Dec. 10, all guests will receive a free side of the popular garlic or sweet sriracha tots with the purchase of any burger.

Stop in this fast-casual restaurant today and enjoy customizing your burger your own unique way at BUILT Custom Burgers! To learn more about the BUILT® Custom Burgers Alston location, visit
builtcustomburgers.com and follow along
on Facebook,
Twitter and
Instagram.

BUILT Custom Burgers

Alston Town Center

5033 Arco Street

Cary, NC 27519

Family Fun|Opening Night Review #DisneyOnIce presents Dare to Dream @PNCArena in #Raleigh 12/6-12/10!

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​Disclosure: I received complimentary tickets to review the show, however any opinions are my own.

On Wednesday Dec 6, my husband, daughter and I joined other families for a chance to celebrate what’s possible at Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream! Now showing at the PNC Arena until Dec 10, 2017, this show follows the adventures of five daring Disney heroines who’s mission is to spark the courage inside us all. Here is more about the show:

In her Disney On Ice debut, see how far Moana will go when she embarks on an action-packed voyage with mighty demigod Maui in a quest to save her island, become a wayfinder, and find her own identity. Anna’s devotion to her estranged sister Elsa sets her on a perilous journey to mend their bond, and stop an eternal winter. Rapunzel breaks out of her tower and teams up with an unlikely companion, Flynn Rider, as she goes to great lengths to realize her dream. Armed only with courage, Belle befriends the enchanted castle staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s rough exterior. With help from her friends and a little magic, Cinderella is determined to make the wish in her heart come true. Hosted by Mickey and Minnie, discover why no dream is too big when we find the strength to shape our own destiny at Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream!

SobeSavvy Tip: Make sure you get there early to have some time to walk through the concourse and browse some of the novelty stands. There is plenty of awesome Disney merchandise to choose from!

There’s also face painting and a Disney photo booth to enjoy prior to the show or during the brief intermission. A keepsake mug is a must for our daughter. So after some high level discussions on what style of cup she wanted, we settled on a souvenir Mickey Mouse snow cone mug and some cotton candy {which comes with a crown with Mickey Mouse ears}! 

We got to our seats just in time as the lights were dimmed and the show began. Belle from Beauty and The Beast, Cinderella, Frozen’s Anna & Elsa and Moana were the heroines of the evening. Each main character had their own unique elaborate sets and scenes straight from the big screen played out on ice with plenty of special effects and all the sing along sets we have come to love. Watching my 6 yr old enchanted by all the Disney Magic just made me feel like a kid myself all over again. He denied it, but I swear I caught my husband singing along with a ‘Shiny’ singing crab from Moana! I mean when was the last time you saw a crab dance and skate on ice?!

Disney is known for putting on a top notch show, whether on land or ice and this one did not disappoint. It snowed, got windy, had aerial acrobatics and even had a huge dancing horse. It’s a whole lot of magic and family fun with important life lessons for everyone. The Disney Heroines reminded us to face fears, be courageous, dare to dream and ……. ⤵

Join the magic now until Dec 10 at the PNC Arena. For more information about the show go to http://www.disneyonice.com. Tickets are available for purchase >>> here. 

Watch this video of more #DisneyOnIce magic moments from opening night here in Raleigh,NC at PNC! 

Event Recap | #NCMAEbony ‘Behind the Seams ~ Girls in Gowns in the Gallery @ncartmuseum 

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Disclaimer: Thank you to NCMA for providing tickets to facilitate this recap by blog contributor, Kiara Ruth @kiararuth

Beautiful gowns and heels adorned the halls of the North Carolina Art Museum for the Ebony Fashion Fair Behind the Seams, Girls in Gowns in the Gallery event. Burst of colors and personal closet picks were the hallmarks of the night. Celebrating Inspiring Beauty 50 years of Ebony Fashion Fair exhibition, the sold-out event featured a lip print analysis by Ariana Lightningstorm who has been featured on Dr. Oz, delicate candy floss provided by Mama’s Sugar Shack and methods for fashion illustration with live demonstration by visual artist Karen Campbell. 

During this event you were able to sip and stroll the galleries with your girls dressed in their best gowns. We were able to view the 40 stunning outfits by Christian Dior, Givenchy, Alexander Mcqueen and many more. Designs from the 60’s to the early 2000’s vibrantly worn by the most beautiful mannequins filled the North Carolina Art Museum. 

This portrait was drawn by Karen Campbell. She was gracious enough to make me look like a Disney Princess. She is amazing, and her talent is out of this world. Visit her website at www.karencampbellartist.com for illustrations and live demonstrations.

During this event my favorite thing to eat was the blue raspberry cotton candy from Mamas Sugar Shack; It was just the right amount of sweet and the perfect addition for any party.

I went with this off the shoulder rose gown from Swoon, a local boutique in Holly Springs, NC. Here are more photos from this lovely event:

Overall the Behind the Seams, Girls in Gown Night was simply amazing. I am extremely grateful that I attended this event. ~Kiara Ruth

If you missed the Behind the Seams event, check out NC Museum of Art’s photo stream >>>>here. Be sure to follow @SobeSavvy, @NCartmuseum and share your experience on social media using hashtag #NCMAebony. 

North Carolina Museum of Art

East Building

Meymandi Exhibition Gallery

October 28, 2017- January 21, 2018