Meet #thesavageway Interns

Meet #thesavageway Interns

We consider ourselves lucky that we are able to surround ourselves with some amazing interns throughout the year and this semester is no different. We have witnessed Maddy Rupert & Renee Gorman learn and grow at #thesavageway for some weeks now. Together they have been a powerhouse and tackled every task that we’ve given them. Individually, they’ve shown us what big hearts and creative brains they each have. We’ve gotten to know them, and now we want to introduce them to you! Meet #thesavageway Interns!

We love our interns!! #thesavageway

We love our interns!! #thesavageway

MEET MADELYN RUPERT (@bohohobo)

Meet Madelyn Rupert! #thesavageway

Meet Madelyn Rupert! #thesavageway

What’s your nickname? Maddy, Mads, Maddog

Where did you go to school? Wake Forest University

How did you hear about #thesavageway? After recently graduating from Wake and moving to Charlotte in August, I was applying to a lot of jobs in the hopes of finding something that would allow me to use my educational experiences, yet also stimulated me artistically. In my searches, I stumbled upon #thesavageway and was immediately intrigued. #thesavageway had something different about them, something that caught my eye. Then when I did more research, and found out about the work they’re doing in the community, and the aspects that make them unique, like the Clean Graffiti and Moss Art, I was sold.

Why did you want to work with #thesavageway? #thesavageway stuck out to me because of its non-traditional aspects. I’ve never been the type to sit at an office job all day, and #thesavageway immediately caught my eye in that it provided an internship experience different than anything else I would get in a more traditional marketing firm. I also liked how small it is, and that I would be able to work closely with Torrie and Paula. It gives you the feeling that the work you’re doing really matters, and I think that’s important when looking for a job.

You’re a few weeks into this internship, what are your thoughts thus far? What I like most about the position is that no day is the same. Each day holds its own infinite set of possibilities. One day we’ll be sitting in on meetings with clients, another we’ll be out taking pictures for social media, and the next we’ll be socializing and enjoying a beer at a client event. So far, I not only feel as if I am learning, but I am also enjoying myself. It is helping me familiarize myself with the Charlotte area, get to know the community while allowing me to grow my professional skills. So, I’d say I think it’s going really well so far!

Name 3 of your favorite songs. This is always a dreaded question for me because 1) I am a huge music lover and my favorites could change based on any number of variables, and 2) I am THE most indecisive person ever, one of the fatal traits of a Libra. So, to avoid giving you a list of a million songs and to avoid hours of painstaking decision making to narrow down my list, I will give you 3 of my current favorites (aka 3 currently on repeat):

  1. Jamie xx – Loud Places 
  2. Tame Impala- The Less I Know the Better
  3. Leon Bridges- Coming Home

Dream job? Fashion buyer / Merchandiser

Favorite Food? Pizza (Also, my most used emoji)

MEET RENEE GORMAN (@reneemichaela)

Meet Renee Gorman! #thesavageway

Meet Renee Gorman! #thesavageway

What’s your nickname? People at my kickboxing gym call me Red because of my hair,  but that hasn’t caught on outside of the gym, although, I don’t think I would mind at all.

Where did you go to school? Queens University of Charlotte

How did you hear about #thesavageway? Once I graduated, I did research for social media and marketing companies and I came across #thesavageway through #WeLoveCLT. I thought what #thesavageway did was crazy cool and innovative and I knew I had to be involved.

Why did you want to work with #thesavageway? In a previous internship I wrote an article on the social media of NoDa (the arts district in Charlotte). I was impressed with the community’s social media use and how they communicate. It wasn’t until I was at my interview with #thesavageway that I learned they do the social media for NoDa. Now I am helping run the social media so I’ve made a full circle and it is awesome to be on the other side.

I like how #thesavageway is a non-traditional company. I was immediately drawn to that. I like that #thesavageway is a small company and that I can work with every project. Additionally, the Clean Graffiti is such a brilliant idea I knew I had to be a part of this company

You’re a few weeks into this internship, what are your thoughts thus far? I LOVE working with the ladies of #thesavageway. I am learning so much about social media and marketing. But more importantly, I am getting to do a lot. This internship is very hands on and within the first two weeks I was helping run different social media accounts. I cannot wait to see what the next months have in store.

Name 3 of your favorite songs. I am totally going to cheat on this question. This is so hard. I have to put down Joan Jett. She is the reason I bought my first leather jacket. Her music and her generally badassery inspired me.

  1. “Pompeii” by Bastille is definitely up there. This song was played all the time at the Open Mic Night at the pub my friends and I frequented when I lived in England. So it holds a special place in my heart.
  2. OneRepublic’s “I Lived” is another song that is important to me. In fact, the whole Native album was important to me. I listened to these songs while I was backpacking by myself. These songs kept me company on my many adventures through Europe.
  3. This is me cheating… Currently, on my drive into #thesavageway I am rocking out to “Renegades” by the X Ambassadors and “What’s Up” by 4 Non Blondes.

 Dream job? I definitely want to work with social media and video production. I see myself working with a nontraditional, creative company. I would like a job that is challenging and that no two days are the same.

Favorite Food? Tacos, I love a good taco. There is this hole-in-the wall Korean BBQ joint in Atlanta that serves amazing tacos. So yeah, any variations of a taco dish.

Keep up with our interns happenings by following Renee & Maddy on Instagram @thesavagewayinterns.

There is Plenty of Value at Value Village

There is Plenty of Value at Value Village

#thesavageway team loves a good bargain. Recently, we had the opportunity to hit up two Value Village locations in search of some hidden gems. Now, thrifting and second-hand shopping is nothing new to either of us (Torrie or Paula), however this trip was our first to visit the new Value Village location on Independence Blvd. We found so many amazing finds, and plenty of value at Value Village!

Checking out the Value Village on Independence Blvd with the lovely Alana Allen. #thesavageway

Checking out the Value Village on Independence Blvd with the lovely Alana Allen. #thesavageway

Upon walking in, the first thing we noticed was the cleanliness and organized appearance of the store. We also noticed that a discount was being offered that day on blue tags. (In fact, a different discount is offered everyday – simply look for the color on the poster!)

Clean & organized racks at Value Village. #thesavageway

Clean & organized racks at Value Village. #thesavageway

Books on books on books at Value Village. #thesavageway

Books on books on books at Value Village. #thesavageway

Sections were broken up into accessories, furniture, clothing, books, toys, shoes, etc. There really was a little bit of everything here! We walked in not necessarily having an end goal. We were exploring and seeing what jumped out at us. Value Village provided some nice thrifting tips to help for a better experience.

  • Don’t Go in With Expectations (True, you never know what you are going to find!)
  • Be Patient (Great piece of advice. If you are looking for something in particular, visit often and there is a chance you will snag it for cheap!)
  • Familiarize Yourself with Good Brands / Look for Vintage (This is clutch – look for pieces that will have longevity and are of good quality!)
  • Bring a Bag (Value Village does provide carts, but carrying a reusable tote is perfect to load up in store & when you leave)
There is plenty of value at Value Village. #thesavageway

There is plenty of value at Value Village. #thesavageway

Torrie’s Finds:

  • 1 gold serving tray
  • 3 candle holders
  • 1 glass carafe
  • 1 mason jar
  • 1 leather handbag
  • 1 unique, amazing jacket
Torrie's finds at the Value Village. #thesavageway

Torrie’s finds at the Value Village. #thesavageway

Nice leather purse from Value Village. #thesavageway

Nice leather purse from Value Village. #thesavageway

Seriously, can there be a better jacket? Torrie rocking her Value Village find! #thesavageway

Seriously, can there be a better jacket? Torrie rocking her Value Village find! #thesavageway

Paula’s Finds

  • 3 baskets
  • 2 metal candle holders
  • 5 mason jars
  • 2 glass carafes
  • 1 SWEET blue poncho
  • 1 small leather handbag
Some of Paula's finds at Value Village! #thesavageway

Some of Paula’s finds at Value Village! #thesavageway

Paula checking out the housewares section at Value Village. #thesavageway

Paula checking out the housewares section at Value Village. #thesavageway

Best part of it all, after the already low prices, & the deals of the day – TOTAL COST $7.27.
Full disclosure – we hit up the Central Ave location and snagged Torrie’s jacket & Paula’s poncho for a total of $20.11 (we just didn’t snag a picture of that register.) 

Yes, that reads $7.27!! What a deal at Value Village! #thesavageway

Yes, that reads $7.27!! What a deal at Value Village! #thesavageway

WHY THRIFTING IS IMPORTANT
There are a million reasons why hitting up the thrift store is a great decision. It helps you stay within budget, recycle & repurpose old clothes, contribute less to new textile production and reduce landfill waste.

DID YOU KNOW:

  • An estimated 13.1 million tons of textile waste is generated in the US alone each year? Only as estimated 15% of that material is captured for reuse of recycling.
  • Average person creates 70 pounds of textile waste each year.
  • 1 pound of textile waste produces 7 pounds of CO2. That is approximately 91.7 Million Tons of CO2 generated each year. (Textiles are one of the largest CO2 emitting waste streams)

DONATION OF OLD CLOTHES
While we do create far too much textile waste, there is a small solution to help reduce that waste stream. Carolina Value Village works alongside the National Kidney Foundation as their chosen non-profit. Through the charitable organization National Kidney Services, Value Village is able to go out into the community, pick up people’s unwanted textiles and then give a percentage of those sales to the National Kidney Foundation. Awesome!

FIND A VALUE VILLAGE

Charlotte

  • 2917 Freedom Drive,
    Charlotte, NC, 28208
  • 4451 Central Avenue,
    Charlotte, NC 28205
  • 5700 E Independence Blvd.,
    Charlotte, NC 28212
  • 6300 South Boulevard #300,
    Charlotte, NC, 28217

Gastonia

  • 2541 West Franklin Boulevard,
    Gastonia, NC, 28052

Greensboro

  • 3407 High Point Road,
    Greensboro, NC, 27407

Kannapolis

  • 912 South Cannon Boulevard,
    Kannaoplis, NC, 28083

Mooresville

  • 219 East Plaza Drive #A,
    Mooresville, NC, 28115

Bonus: Over Halloween, Paula & her friends needed some quick costumes and knowing that Value Village had a ton of clothing options available, they headed to the Independence Blvd location. Paula’s entire National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Aunt Bethany costume (minus the hat) was found at Value Village for $6.14! The other costume was found head-to-toe (except for the wig) from the Village for under $10!

An awesome Halloween costume (Ellen Griswold from Christmas Vacation) found at Value Village (minus the wig). #thesavageway

An awesome Halloween costume (Ellen Griswold from Christmas Vacation) found at Value Village (minus the wig). #thesavageway

Paula is rocking her Value Village finds in her Aunt Bethany from Christmas Vacation costume! #thesavageway

Paula is rocking her Value Village finds in her Aunt Bethany from Christmas Vacation costume! #thesavageway

After seeing that there is plenty of value at Value Village, it makes a lot of sense to plan a trip to the location nearest you! You never know what you might find!!

#NoDaHangout Is A Lunch Break Game Changer

#NoDaHangout Is A Lunch Break Game Changer

What do you get when you combine passion, truly talented people and great beer? A lunch break that’s a real game changer. Join NoDa Brewing Company and #thesavageway on Friday, May 29 at noon for the next Google+ Hangout.

#NoDaHangout is the perfect lunch break! #thesavageway

#NoDaHangout is the perfect lunch break! #thesavageway

NoDa Brewing Company approached #thesavageway team a few months ago to assist them with the launch of an idea. An idea to keep them on the forefront of the craft beer industry. That idea became #NoDaHangout, a monthly series where passionate people discuss the ins and outs of making and consuming craft beer – all virtually.

Each month, NoDa’s Head Brewer, Chad Henderson, and a special guest gather on a Google+ Hangout On Air to talk about a particular topic. Topics vary based upon the guest of honor and what happens to be going on at the time. Past topics included the following:

NoDa has successfully sparked a conversation around all things craft beer. #thesavageway team assists with the social media side of things and fielding questions from the audience. Stay tuned to #NoDaHangout on Twitter & Instagram and ask your questions for Chad, NoDa Brewing & our guest speakers.

Paula & Torrie of #thesavageway working the social media for the #NoDaHangout.

Paula & Torrie of #thesavageway working the social media for the #NoDaHangout.

A screenshot of Twitter following the #NoDaHangout. #thesavageway

A screenshot of Twitter following the #NoDaHangout. #thesavageway

The next #NoDaHangout is scheduled for this Friday, May 29 at noon and we are chatting all things Homebrewing! Special guests include Bethany Burr & Rob Adams (both homebrewing all stars). Click here for the event link to watch it live and join the conversation!

Spend your lunch break with us (and a cold, Hop Drop & Roll of course)!

Cheers!

Side Note: NoDa Brewing Company is hosting the American Homebrewers Association on May 30 for the AHA Rally. Reserve your tickets today!

Growing #thesavageway

Growing #thesavageway

#thesavageway is a company built around creative solutions, thinking outside the box and overall positive thinking. We strive to work with clients, partners and interns who align with our vision in life. Recently, the opportunity presented itself for us to bring on a contract worker and add some additional woman-power around the office. We wanted you to meet her!

Everyone say HEY to Alana Allen!

Alana Allen joins #thesavageway!

Alana Allen joins #thesavageway!

Alana is creative, funny, kind and excited about all things Charlotte. If you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting her yet, you need to! And when you DO meet her IRL (in real life), you’re sure to hear an amazingly “punny” joke or two.

We asked her a few questions.

Why did you want to join #thesavageway?
I absolutely love the brand, the concept and what you ladies are doing in marketing. More importantly, I love HOW you’re doing things. As a creative person, it is beyond refreshing to watch how you both approach a project and then put your own spin on it. #thesavageway does a great job of localizing creative efforts and expanding on a grass roots level.

The ladies of #thesavageway circa 2012 (left to right: Sara Kaloudis, Torrie Savage, Paula Bartlett, Alana Allen)

The ladies of #thesavageway circa 2012 (left to right: Sara Kaloudis, Torrie Savage, Paula Bartlett, Alana Allen)

As “creative queens,” #thesavageway is always coming up with different ideas. What creative energy do you bring to the table?
I thrive in creative environments. When there is opportunity to build on ideas, my mind will just race with creative content. Anyone that knows me knows that I love a good pun, play on words or a silly joke. But when it comes to branding and clients, I love coming up with new ways to do old things.

What is your role going to be at #thesavageway?
I will be an Account Executive working on a contract basis. However, I definitely see myself wearing many hats in the future. Being able to learn all aspects of the business and helping the team develop these creative solutions is so exciting to me!

Meet The Lady, Alana Allen - #thesavageway

Meet The Lady, Alana Allen – #thesavageway

#thesavageway's newest team member, Alana Allen, hanging with NoDa's Funky Geezer

#thesavageway’s newest team member, Alana Allen, hanging with NoDa’s Funky Geezer

Tell us about “The Ldy.”
Ha! My nickname is The Lady. It started years ago while in conversations with friends. I’m pretty awesome at a British accent and it just stuck.

Current obsession?
Viva Chicken. Seriously, I cannot get enough of those quinoa stuffed chicken avocados.

Where do you hang out?
You can always find me at a local, live concert, hanging around NoDa or hitting the pavement on the Greenway (I love to run).

Favorite Songs (that will need to be added to #thesavageway playlist)?

#thesavageway ladies living the concert life.

#thesavageway ladies living the concert life.

Growing #thesavageway
Stay tuned for Alana’s exciting contributing series to this blog:
The Ldy Takes #thesavageway: A creative perspective on Charlotte’s fashion scene.

Popular Food Truck Rally Returns to NoDa this Month

Popular Food Truck Rally Returns to NoDa this Month

NoDa is home to many creative and community-driven events and the NoDa Food. Art. Music Rally is no exception. CLTure announced that the popular food truck rally returns to NoDa this month. This weekly free event brings the neighborhood together with local food trucks, bands, vendors all while raising awareness for local businesses and non-profits.

NoDa Food. Art. Music Rally line up for Spring. #thesavageway

NoDa Food. Art. Music Rally line up for Spring. #thesavageway

The initial launch of March 5 has been postponed due to weather, so the Kick-Off Party at The Chop Shop will be March 12. Expect to see local musicians including The Business PeopleBrian & Megan and DJ Smitty. Local art vendors will be on hand in addition to a variety of food trucks including Taco Green-Go, Maryland Crab Co, Yummi Banh Mi, Plated Pallate, Roaming Fork and Sweet Cakes Bakery.

NoDa News covering the NoDa FAM Rally last Fall. #thesavageway

NoDa News covering the NoDa FAM Rally last Fall. #thesavageway

Pictures of the NoDa FAM Rally last fall via NoDa FAM Facebook page.

Pictures of the NoDa FAM Rally last fall via NoDa FAM Facebook page.

Vendors setting up at the NoDa FAM Rally last Fall.

Vendors setting up at the NoDa FAM Rally last Fall.

Here at #thesavageway, we love supporting local efforts to grow the community and highlight amazing food and artistry. One of the new twists this year is a weekly art competition. Each week, artists can submit their art for a chance to win $400 sponsored by Goose Island, Shock Top, Blue Point Brewing, Stella Artois and Rolling Rock. Event attendees will select the winner and proceeds will benefit local non-profits Green Teacher Network and Behailu Academy.

Click here for official art completion rules.

More on Green Teacher Network.

More on Behailu Academy.

The event, which runs March 12, 19, 26 and April 2 (with possible rain date of April 9) is dog friendly and will feature a weekly dog costume competition and photo booth sponsored by Four Dogs Pet Supplies and NoDa Bark and Board.

NoDA F.A.M Rally takes place in the parking lot and patio area of The Chop Shop, located at 399 E. 35th Street in Charlotte, from 6-9 p.m.