Networking, learning, and dancing? Yes please!

This year's theme, "Empowerment Through Innovation and AI," inspired attendees to embrace AI and innovation. The workshops, the speakers, a tradeshow, and the networking proved to be another memorable event!

Event Coverage, BOSS Conference at UNC Charlotte Marriott Hotel & Conference Center

Another awesome CREW Charlotte Signature Luncheon - Leadership Lessons from Captain Sandy of Bravo's Below Deck : Navigating Troubled Waters in Changing Times at The Revelry.

The vibe was great, the conversations flowed, and Captain Sandy was funny, kind, and inspiring.

Here are some of my favorite photos from the luncheon.

Event Coverage, Crew Charlotte at The Revelry

I enjoyed covering the Greenhouse Scholars' Glass Half Full fundraiser at Middle C Jazz Club, where Robyn Springer and her band set the perfect tone with a live performance. Greenhouse Scholars is all about leveraging a community of leaders to drive positive change, and this night was a powerful example of that vision in action. It was an inspiring evening filled with great music, incredible energy, and fundraising for a truly impactful cause. Cheers to everyone who came together to make a difference!

Event Coverage,  Middle C Jazz Club, Uptown Charlotte, NC

A real treat for the fashion community as photographers, models, and designers collaborate to put on an incredible runway show. The vibe was electric, unforgettable, and all-around fun!

Event Coverage,  The Pine Noda, Charlotte, NC

In June 2024, I had the honor of photographing Stephen Satterfield, the renowned food writer, sommelier, and TV personality, during his WBTV interview with Dedrick Russell at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market. Stephen is the celebrated host of the Netflix docuseries "High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America." His natural ease and kindness when engaging with the audience and his passion for bringing people together through food were truly inspiring.

We had a chance to chat between takes, and I shared with him that my most memorable episode was the one featuring Mr. Charles' Chicken in Harlem. Additionally, I was invited to attend the Destination Carolinas: Al Fresco, the second in a series of three farm-to-table community dinners. This exquisite dining experience occurred at Johnson C. Smith University, an HBCU in the heart of Charlotte, on a beautiful evening with perfect weather.

The evening's multi-course menu was crafted by James Beard Award-winning Chef Ricky Moore, founder and owner of Saltbox Seafood Joint in Durham, using many ingredients sourced from Black Carolina farmers. The chef-led dinner was exceptional and surpassed all my expectations. From the first course of shredded carrot salad to the family-style entrees featuring grouper, duck leg, and eggplant, along with sides like peas and okra and lemon butter rice, to the plated dessert of peach malva cake with watermelon coconut sorbet, each dish was a culinary delight.

As a self-proclaimed foodie, it doesn't get any better than this. It was a pinch-me moment and an experience I'll cherish forever.

I'm beyond grateful for this incredibly fun opportunity! Here are some of my favorites!

 Event Coverage, Stephen Satterfield at The Charlotte Regional Farmers Market

Using a 150-600mm lens for the first time was a game-changer, and I’m thrilled with the results! Capturing close-up shots of the boats wouldn’t have been possible without it. Despite the rain from the previous days, the weather turned out perfect with a gentle breeze, calm waters, and eager boaters ready to race. I had an incredible time capturing my first dragon boat race!

The festival also had food vendors, a talent show, and a parade of nations. 

To learn more about this festival check out Charlotte Dragon Boat Festival

Here are some images...

Event Coverage, Dragon Boat Festival at Lake Norman