Fixer Uppers

The wiggly porch step. The beloved stuffed animal’s missing eye. The outdoor couch cushion disemboweled by a bored squirrel. These are things that a hammer, hot glue gun, and online replacement order could easily fix, with just a little bit of free time. But one handywoman’s house projects are another woman’s passion projects.

For three local women in particular, breathing new life into objects of the past means more than just reduce, reuse, recycle. Leah Sherrill turned an idea of fixing up bicycles into a win-win to pass along bikes while creating job opportunities for those with disabilities. Artist Lisa Strazza built a career out of cleaning up artwork ranging from museum quality to grandma’s personal portrait. Layer by layer, she uncovers the memories the art holds. And in her workshop, Claire Renaud refurbishes old furniture into whimsical, practical, and/or decorative new pieces. You can read more about their work and maybe be inspired to repair instead of toss.

Also in this issue, learn more about how Elizabeth Hill expanded her Hart & Hill Interiors business to include her own collection of upholstery, pillows, and furniture that showcase her own personality and innovation.

With the ongoing renovations on Pine Grove Road for Wave Wellness, we look at the longevity health offerings the new wellness center plans to incorporate into its menu as well as what other practitioners in the longevity space have been doing in our health feature.

And it doesn’t get fresher or more local than a fish market-to-table dinner that highlights coastal flavors for the cooler, firepit-weather months. Find recipe inspiration from Zora’s here.

In WILMA’s Leadership section, we talk with YWCA CEO Jhaniqua Palmer on major updates for the longtime facility, get advice from former WILMA Leadership co-director Maggi Apel on figuring out what’s next, and get some small business insights from Craft Cabana owner Danielle Hedglen.

As we head into the busy holiday season, I fully recommend gearing up by taking a break at the beach. Early November is when kite flyers from around the country converge at Kure Beach, and there’s nothing like a giant scuba diver floating above you to put you in the holiday spirit. Click here to find out how to make the most out of the Cape Fear Kite Festival.

Vicky Janowski
WILMA editor
editor@wilmingtonbiz.com

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