From The Hip Communications

When people ask what I do these days, the immediate answer is “I’m a communications consultant.”

Their next question: “What does that mean?”

“I help people tell their stories,” I reply.

In 2009, after leaving a 20-year career with The Charlotte Observer, I started From The Hip Communications and developed wonderful relationships with “my mainstays.” As the year ended, and my workload shifted, I began to work with some more amazing people.

The newcomers

Angie and Dee Cowger, owners of Custard Stand Hot Dog Chili

CUSTARD STAND HOT DOG CHILI: If you’ve known me for very long, you’ve probably heard me talk about the Chili Queen (aka Angie Cowger, my cousin). She and her husband, Dee, are the team behind Custard Stand Hot Dog Chili and their two Custard Stand restaurants. The chili is carried by Walmart, Sam’s Club, Kroger and independent food retailers in the East.

THE EQ FACTOR: Charlotte native Leslie Palmer created The Q Way: Quest Teen Leadership in 2003 to help teens learn about emotional intelligence, which is often cited as being more important than IQ. Since then, more than 4,000 students have experienced the program. In 2009, Leslie partnered with Nicholas Beamon to expand the vision of The Q Way and to develop a similar program for parents.

LARK & KEY: The gallery and boutique in NoDa and South End showcases the work of artists/owners Duy Huynh and Sandy Snead, as well as other independent artists, artisans and designers from around the country. The duo focuses on creating warm and inviting spaces that offer a distinctive selection of artwork, pottery, jewelry, paper goods and more. Love their blog!

My mainstays

AMELIE’S FRENCH BAKERY: The award-winning, 24/7/365 bakery on North Davidson is one of my favorite places in the world. When owners Lynn St. Laurent and Bill Lamb offered me a chance to come on board, I didn’t hesitate. For many reasons, Amelie’s is a “don’t miss” destination in the city. My role evolved with the start of 2010: I will be doing more community relations and special event planning. You’ll still see me behind the counter every so often. I’m proud to be part of the Amelie’s family.

BEADLUSH: The vibrant shop in Plaza Midwood offers thousands of beads, findings, tools, handmade jewelry and custom designs. Owner Lydia Stern has created THE destination for those who bead or want to learn how. The classes are top-notch. Great place for a Girls Night Out or to find a distinctive gift.

A photo from one of my favorite Crossroads Charlotte posts by Rhiannon Bowman. Click the photo to read it.

CROSSROADS CHARLOTTE: I lead a team of freelance writers, videographers and photographers who document stories of people, groups and institutions who are working to build social capital. Check out their work! I’m honored to be a part of this effort.

POTION: The luxury beauty boutique in Huntersville’s Birkdale Village is a must for make-up and skincare. Owner Samantha Smith often works backstage at runway shows (Miami Fashion Week, Heatherette, Belk and couture bridal houses) and on photo shoots for magazines and other media. Charlotte Magazine selected Smith as the city’s 2009 Best Bridal Makeup Artist in its Best of the Best issue. Did you catch Samantha’s recent appearance on WCNC?

STORY SLAM! CHARLOTTE: This community arts center, headed by Mark Woods, focuses on creativity, thoughtful discussion and the belief that “it’s all story.” The black box theater holds 60-75 people and is at 1401 Central Ave., in the heart of the Plaza Midwood neighborhood. Check out its blog!