7 ways to salvage your year (yes, even the rest of 2020), inspired by ‘Schitt’s Creek’
Editor’s note: This article originally published on Jan. 9, 2020, before COVID-19 reached Charlotte. We thought we’d highlight this story in celebration of “Schitt’s Creek’s” sweep in the Sept. 20 Emmy awards, but check to make sure the destination is open before you head out.
If 2019 left you thinking, “Ew, David,” then it’s time to stop acting like a disgruntled pelican and make 2020 your year. (Update September 2020: Forget what we said in January. Nothing to see here.)
In the words of Moira Rose, “One must champion oneself and say, I am ready for this.”
Consider pursuing your passion project or trying something new — like fruit wine. Or visit an apothecary to jump-start a real skincare routine.
If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve rounded up a few ideas inspired by the beloved Rose family from Schitt’s Creek.
We “love this journey for you.”
(1) Try some fruit wine
“Hi! I’m Moira Rose, and if you like fruit wine as much as I do, then you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship and quality of a local vintner who brings the muskmelon goodness to his oak Chardonnay and the dazzling peach crabapple to his Riesling Rioja.” – Moira Rose
Sadly, Charlotte does not have a glass of wine with the Herb Ertlinger label, but it’s conveniently located near several popular wineries, including Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery and Treehouse Vineyards (which is closed for wine tastings and tours under COVID-19 Phase 2.5, but open for other events).
If you want to channel your very own Moira Rose spirit, consider visiting Dennis Vineyards, just 30 minutes outside of the city. Not only does it have fruit wines — strawberry, blackberry, etc. — it also has wine slushies, which are best enjoyed on the patio.
Not feeling quite as adventurous? Relax and enjoy a glass of wine at Foxcroft Wine Co., Reid’s Fine Foods, Napa on Providence or the NoDa Company Store. (Update September 2020: As a response to COVID-19, NoDa Company Store and other local spots have leveled up patios, social-distancing style. Also, check out local wine retailers with curbside pickup options.)
(2) Step up your skincare routine
“It smells like pennies and burps. Anyone who sells counterfeit luxury beauty products is clearly a sociopath.” –David Rose
Amazon Prime is great, but let’s be honest — you’re not always sure what you’re getting. And that $5 face wash is probably only $5 for a reason. Your skin deserves a new skincare routine.
If you’re looking for a space reminiscent of Rose Apothecary, visit Urban Skin Solutions or Jeffre Scott Apothecary (now transforming to use the name Tapp Beauty) or for your skincare, hair care and cosmetic needs. Both of the upscale, contemporary spaces offer personalized service custom-tailored to your cosmetic needs.
(3) Pursue your passion project
“Hide your diamonds, hide your exes … I’m a little bit Alexis.” – Alexis Rose
So, maybe you aren’t planning on starring in your own reality TV show like Alexis Rose this year. But that doesn’t mean you can’t follow your dreams.
Will this be the year you finally draft your novel? The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has resources and workshops to help you along the way. And all you need is a library card.
If your passion project involves a personal fitness journey, consider joining one of several newly opened boutique fitness centers. Or check out tips from Charlotte fitness professionals.
Or maybe you’re ready to launch your own business. Charlotte is known for its entrepreneurial spirit — in 2018, it was ranked No. 11 on a list of the top cities for millennial entrepreneurs. Last year, we saw the opening of a philanthropy-focused nail salon and a collective of local businesses that created a brick-and-mortar storefront through teamwork.
(Update September 2020: Yes, 2020 has done a number on businesses all over the world, but hang in there, entrepreneurs — it will get better. In fact, some of our favorite retailers have opened brick-and-mortar spots in Charlotte during the pandemic: CLT Boutique and Glory Days, and Girl Tribe is opening a storefront in Charleston.)
Now, it’s your turn.
(4) Brush up on your cooking skills
“And just so you’re aware, this has nothing to do with me not knowing my way around a grill. I’ve watched many a personal chef flip a burger in my day.” – Johnny Rose
Do you know how to sear? How about proper cast iron care? If you find yourself in a similar situation to David and Moira Rose when attempting to “fold in the cheese,” it may be time to buckle down and learn some cooking skills. Chef Alyssa Wilen gave us tips on kitchen skills you should have by the time you’re 30.
Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen is designed for interactivity, so you can get personalized guidance to create your own healthy meals at home. Look for seasonal classes, as well as instruction on must-have techniques, like knife skills. Classes are separated by skill level, so you can start from the beginning or build on what you already know.
(Update September 2020: If the thought of cooking classes in person makes you go “ew,” check out our lineup of COVID-19-friendly virtual cooking classes.)
(5) Enjoy a shameless snack
“I will not feel shame about the mall pretzels.” – David Rose
Even if you’re on a health and fitness track, you should still factor in a treat or two every once and awhile — life is meant to be lived.
Skip the mall pretzel and opt for a fresh brewery pretzel instead. The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery and Brewers at 4001 Yancey both have incredible hot pretzels, complete with beer cheese. For more carb-loading, check out the best biscuits in the QC.
(Update September 2020: During a global pandemic, it’s all about sweets delivery. Check out Honeybear Bake Shop, The Cheesecake Studio & More or Sweet Spot Studio.)
(6) Shop local
“Sadly it’s not custom this time around, Alexis. Mommy had to shop off the rack. Fortunately, I discovered something called a promo code.” – Moira Rose
“I walk through life in really nice shoes.” –Alexis Rose
The Rose family knows fashion, from Moira’s extensive collection of wigs for every mood to David’s can’t-miss sweaters. How does your wardrobe match up?
Charlotte’s local retailers carry apparel for every occasion. Sport your Queen City pride at 704 Shop, Glory Days Apparel or CLT Boutique.
If you want to flex your girl boss muscles, Feminist Goods Co. and Girl Tribe have the perfect styles to make you feel bold and beautiful.
Or, compliment your fitness resolution with feel-good apparel from Fit Atelier and The Sporting Gent.
(7) Advance your career
“Um, I actually prefer to be called a freelance brand invigorator.” – Alexis Rose
Feeling a renewed sense of passion? Whether you’re planning on returning to school to get a degree in public relations like Alexis Rose, or planning to open your very own roadside motel, there’s no time like the present to advance your career.
Consider taking a class at Skillpop. Offerings include instructions on how to build your online brand and business, a guide to digital marketing and tips for social media in the business realm. You know, so you don’t encourage anyone to “Tweet us on Facebook!” like Johnny Rose.
Not sure where to make your next career move? We talked to local women about the 30 best places to work in Charlotte. Lululemon Athletica, Fidelity Investments and Deloitte all clocked in top spots.
And, if advancing your career involves managing a side hustle, consider advice from these four business owners in culinary, communications and event management.
This story was originally published February 3, 2020 at 6:30 PM.
