NXL21 Charlotte Presents the Charlotte Greek Picnic 2011 || The Queen City Edition

NXL21 Charlotte invites ALL GREEKS along the East Coast to the 1st Annual Charlotte Greek Picnic 2011 - The Queen City Edition. This monumental event will be hosted Friday, May 13th and Saturday, May 14th.

We have recognized the endless possibilities to provide an experience that will revitalize the Greek-based fraternity and sorority appeal in Charlotte. Many of our team members and associates are Greek-affiliated; we know the strength of organizations’ influence, the pride of their histories, and the epic memories that generate when Greeks unite. There is no experience, like the Greek experience.

This event will be a chance for ALL GREEK organization members and friends to congregate, reunite, and network. The 1st Annual Charlotte Greek Picnic 2011 will provide a new and exhilarating experience for the entire Greek-based family in North Carolina.

If you have any questions regarding the Charlotte Greek Picnic 2011 – The Queen City Edition, please contact NXL21 Charlotte at Info@CLTGreekPicnic.com.

For undergraduate step-show information, email us at StepTeam@CLTGreekPicnic.com.

Visit the official website: http://www.cltgreekpicnic.com/

More Details Coming Soon!

“Because you are elite, come discover Oomph Boutique,” is their motto. As one of Charlotte’s hidden treasures, Oomph Boutique offers an extraordinary shopping experience for the discerning fashionista. Stunning décor. Complimentary wine. Outstanding customer-service. You will feel like royalty. NXL21 Charlotte chatted with boutique owner Arien Agurs:

NXL21 Charlotte: How long has Oomph Boutique been open?

Arien Agurs: The boutique has been open since October 2010.

NXL21 Charlotte: What does Oomph Boutique sell?

Arien Agurs: We sell women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories.

NXL21 Charlotte: Where did the vision of Oomph Boutique come from?

Arien Agurs: I’m a very big shopper and loyal shopper. I was tired of seeing people in the same garments. I felt that there was a need for something exclusive without the hefty price tag.

NXL21 Charlotte: How did you come up with the name Oomph Boutique?

Arien Agurs: It’s kind of an inside joke. People that know me personally know that I’ve always had a fabulous closet. Some of my girlfriends would come over and get dressed at my house. I would help them with their outfits and say, “It’s cute but it’s missing a little bit of oomph.” That’s how I came up with Oomph Boutique - that extra pizzazz or spice.

NXL21 Charlotte: Who is your target customer?

Arien Agurs: My target customer is women between the ages of twenty to late thirties. There are women in their forties that come in also. There is something here for everyone. I target women that want to look trendy with a conservative edge. Professionals. People that like to have a good time and look different.

NXL21 Charlotte: What makes Oomph Boutique different from other boutiques in Charlotte?

Arien Agurs: A few things. Customer service would be first on my list. Usually, once businesses become stagnant, it seems like that hunger to please customers deteriorates. I feel like all of my customers are my girlfriends. I want them to be able to talk to me. If it doesn’t look good, I’ll let you know. I may suggest it in another color or different style. I give all the women that come in exceptional customer service. Secondly, even though a boutique name is attached to Oomph, there aren’t boutique prices. It’s affordable with great, quality merchandise. Also, we have something new every single week.

NXL21 Charlotte: What trend do you forecast will be popular in spring?

Arien Agurs: Colors. Lots and lots of colors. I think we’re getting tired of earth tones. Purple, fuchsia, oranges, and reds will be in. Don’t be afraid to take risks this season. Flats will also be popular. We have some new flats that are absolutely adorable. They come in yellow, tan, and orange with Swarovski crystals. They are exclusive and you won’t see them on anyone else. I love heels, but don’t be afraid to take off that height sometimes; it’s okay to be in flats.

NXL21 Charlotte: Where do you see Oomph Boutique in the next five years?

Arien Agurs: With this particular boutique, I want to branch out to another location. I have another boutique in the works in Houston, Texas. But, there will definitely be another location in Charlotte. Also, I see us still standing strong with a dedication to our core values - a commitment to our customers and unparalleled customer service.

NXL 21 Charlotte: What personal struggles did you face when opening Oomph Boutique?

Arien Agurs: The biggest difficulty I had was looking for the support of other people. Not monetary support but just support period. People didn’t understand why I would take such a risk, but it’s okay for people not to get it. I truly believe what God has for me is for me. You may not understand it, but it’s for me. I knew it was something I had to do. Not everyone is going to be supportive. You have to believe in yourself.

NXL21 Charlotte: What advice do you have for other young entrepreneurs?

Arien Agurs: My advice is to know your business. Do your homework. Selling clothes is the easy part. Know your finances. Pay your taxes. When you branch out on your own as a small business, there is no Human Resources. You have to be everything. Be prepared. ▪

*Owner - Arien Agurs

*Flats with Swarovski Crystals

Be sure to follow Oomph Boutique on Twitter @oomphboutique.

Visit Oomph Boutique on Facebook at facebook.com/oomphboutiquecharlotte.

Address & Phone Number:

Oomph Boutique

8829 Arbor Creek Drive
Charlotte, North Carolina 28260
704.948.4153

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday - Thursday (11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.)
Friday - Saturday (10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.)

Special Features:

+ Unique Pieces
+ Reasonable Prices
+ Personal Shopping
+ Style Assessment
+ Complimentary Wine
+ Intimate Shopping Atmosphere
+ Exclusive Boutique Parties
+ Exceptional Customer Service

Available Job Position:

-Assistant
-Retail and Customer Service Experience Preferred
-Send resume or inquires to oomph@oomphboutique.com

Next Season, Next Level: CIAA Fashion Trends

- Monique Douglas

On March 20th of each year, we welcome the 1st day of spring. We do this by unlocking our clothing bins or trunks, and packing away our turtlenecks and toboggans. While we prepare for a warmer climate, the Queen City and surrounding areas are preparing for a different type of climate change -the social climate change- that occurs every early March: The annual CIAA basketball tournament.

This year’s college basketball tournament takes place at the Time Warner Cable Arena, February 28-March 5th and garners tourists from up and down the east coast. The ending weekend of the tournament brings tons of revenue to Charlotte’s nightlife, as every club and promoter will be hosting parties at any feasible venue. When a weekend like CIAA approaches, the city of Charlotte has to prepare for the sudden change in social climate…and dress accordingly, of course. Here are some items that are hot fashion trends this upcoming CIAA weekend, and some that just need to stop:

HOT!

·Trendy timepieces. Spring is blossoming and with it brings colorful watches from the inexpensive to the pricier designers, for both men and women

·Rompers. Paired with high heels they can be sexy, flirty, and comfortable. Need I say more?

·Lace. This fabric is being spotted more recent than any other trendy fabrics. Though not a personal favorite, the right article of clothing in a lacey fabric can be attractive and romantic

·Think in Prints. Leopard, safari, floral or exotic themes are all fashionable this season

STOP!

·Retire the rubber-looking leggings. Sorry ladies. I know that as a lady myself, I should be shot and strangled for writing this but the leather look is out this season. Stick to the “jeggings” or regular leggings if need be, to accommodate the change of temperature

·Saving pennies on cheap perfume/cologne. Please do all of the ticket-buying patrons a favor by spending more for an actual eau de parfum. Cheaper scents tend to have an unpleasant smell

·Strutting in “Stripper heels”. You know what I’m talking about. Let’s opt for a more fashionable, classy platform heel instead. They can be found with a visible or hidden platform and in any fabric. I own a pair in suede actually and I find it elongates the legs for a flattering look!

·Throwing on Uggs. Yes, I know that there are day-parties galore however do not attend any of them sporting a pair of these popular Australian boots. Yes we love them, yes they are comfortable but they need to hibernate in the spring

So as you prepare to attend The Ritz-Carlton for the NXL21 on March 5th, be sure to take a quick look at what’s hot enough to wear for this big, eventful weekend!

For more information on NXL21 Charlotte events during CIAA, visit http://charlotte.nxlevelent.com/ .

People will talk about it.

People will remember it.

Some people will forever be changed…

We invite you to Urban Garden @ the Ritz during the CIAA tournament weekend!

The Ritz Carlton is the Queen City’s most inspired design which features a breath-taking, multi-level atrium nestled beside Bank of America’s innovative office tower. The atrium will play host to alumni and party-goers alike in one of the most distinguished venues overlooking the city skyline.

Glass walls create an inspiring backdrop for impromptu socializing, making the Urban Garden Charlotte’s ultimate party place to be front and center. The Urban Garden is a centerpiece for beautiful insanity personified as we celebrate the festivities during CIAA. Located three floors above street level, it offers easy access via a pedestrian pathway from the Bank of America Center Parking Garage, as well as across the sky bridges.

Entry is permitted in at 1 Bank of America Center at the corner of 5th and College Streets in Center City Charlotte.

This is a semi-formal affair. Your finest attire is requested.

• Complimentary Hors D’œuvres Served Butler Style • Multi-level atrium • Multiple Bar Stations • VIP Privileged Tables with Reserved Bottles

Advanced Tickets Exclusively at:

.UrbanGarden2011.Eventbrite.com

Doors open at 10:00 p.m. Dance until 2:00 a.m.

This is a private event. The event will be selective in nature. Admission will be reserved for those with advance tickets and who demonstrate progressive style and execution. We ask that you prepare and dress accordingly.

A Culinary Celebration || Charlotte Restaurant Week

*Above: Chima Brazilian Steakhouse

-By: Chanel Murphy

Wouldn’t it be great to experience the variety of upscale cuisine in the Queen City?

Well, today marks the beginning of a culinary celebration- Charlotte Restaurant Week!

From January 21 to January 30, over fifty of Charlotte’s finest restaurants are offering three-course meals for only $30 per person. This price includes a plethora of food. You’ll receive an appetizer, main dish, and dessert of your choice. A few of the participating restaurants are Chima Brazilian Steakhouse, the Melting Pot, Aquavina, Aria Tuscan Grill, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, Mez, Enso Asian Bistro, and many more!

I’m especially excited about dining at Chima Brazilian Steakhouse because I’ve never been there before. It’s always nice to try something new! The three-course meal includes cheese bread with turkey spread as appetizer, a choice of a traditional Brazilian “rodizio-style” meat, and access the salad bar- which has 35 American and Brazilian food choices.

For more information about Charlotte Restaurant Week, visit their official website at www.CharlotteRestaurantWeek.com. Coupons are not needed, but a reservation is highly recommended.

See you there!

*Chima Brazilian Steakhouse: www.chima.cc

T.I.M.E. to Give!

This holiday season, T.I.M.E. -Taking Initiative Moving Efficiently- LLC, hosted their first annual clothes and canned food drive.

T.I.M.E. partnered with Nxlevel (NXL21) Charlotte Entertainment, Velocity Sports Performance- Charlotte, Ethan & Zoey, Vision by Nicole, Studio Rush- Charlotte, K Kouture, Harris Teeter, and the UPS Store to clothe and feed over fifty families in Charlotte, NC. “Not only did our mission include raising donations, but we unified various leaders, businesses, and organizational bodies to be a valuable asset in their community– by actively participating,” said Curtis Walls, Co-Founder of T.I.M.E.

Paper bags were donated from several Harris Teeters stores. The bags were delivered by volunteers and partner employees. “We were overwhelmed by the response. The volunteers had a great time. The neighborhoods loaded our vehicles with donations. It was amazing to witness our communities giving back. Some households even purchased brand-new clothes,” said Curtis Walls.

T.I.M.E. was founded by Curtis Walls, Lawrence T. Alli, and Samuel Evans. It is a service-based organization that seeks to unify various leaders, organizational bodies, and communities to be a valuable asset to their community. T.I.M.E. is more than a name and phrase; it is an overall philosophical concept. It represents a mindset, idea, and most importantly, a lifestyle.

All businesses, organizations, and individuals are welcome to join “T.I.M.E. to Give” initiatives in the future. Contact ACJ.TIME@gmail.com for more information.

The 2011 countdown has begun!!! “Experience the Lifestyle” again with NXL21 Charlotte. We have provided an exclusive atmosphere for the well-educated, fashion-forward, media-savvy young professional - QUALITY. On Friday, December 31, 2010, join us at the sexy Lava Bistro & Bar located on the University Lake. #WIN

Purchase your “Early Bird” ticket for $10 immediately- only 50 available online! For those who wish to upgrade your New Year’s Eve experience, be sure to get your “Early Bird” V.I.P. ticket online- limited availability. This special package will include complimentary hors d’oeuvres and champagne toast.

“Early Bird” V.I.P. Tables start at $250. This special package includes complimentary champagne toast, hors d’oeuvres, and bottle service for all of your guests!

***Again, these prices are for a limited time only - DON’T WAIT***

Last year, Forever Young 2009 was a sold-out event! With a new and intimate venue facing the waterfront, we know this year will be indistinguishable.

“Experience the Lifestyle…Quality”

Forever Young 2010: New Years Eve Event

Lava Bistro & Bar

8708 JW Clay Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28262

Friday, December 31, 2010

Doors open @ 10pm

Attire: Stylish & Sophisticated

http://www.foreveryoungnye.eventbrite.com/