Hello friends!

I hope your week is starting off with sunshine, good coffee, and a little extra joy. This Monday I’m especially excited because I’m introducing something new to our newsletter—and someone very special.

Please meet Brittany Robinson, my friend and neighbor. Brittany is an incredibly talented local artist who recently moved her Virginia-based small business, B’s Custom Creations, right here to Wake County. She designs and handcrafts the most beautiful luxury wreaths you’ve ever seen—gorgeous, custom pieces that turn any front door into a warm, welcoming statement.

When first impressions matter (and they always do), there’s nothing quite like a wreath made just for you. Brittany’s designs perfectly complement your entryway, accent the beauty of your home, and make every guest feel instantly at home.

I can’t wait for you to discover her work. You’re going to fall in love.

Here’s to a wonderful week ahead—and to filling our doors (and hearts) with a little extra beauty.

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

P.S. Keep reading to learn more about Brittany and her beautiful creations! Be sure to visit and follow her Facebook page, linked below, to explore more of her stunning work.

When you shop or advertise in our newsletter, a small portion of your purchase is donated to esophageal cancer research in loving memory of our son, Darren.

Thank you for supporting our mission!❤️

—Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Kids Say The Darndest Things!

“Who’s the boss at your house?”
“My dad—until Grandma comes over. Then he’s just one of us.”

Summer is calling, and North Carolina is answering with barbecue, bluegrass, watermelon, gemstones, Scottish games, live music and mountain magic! Whether you prefer a quick Triangle outing or a full weekend in the Blue Ridge Mountains, there is a festival adventure waiting for you.

Bring your appetite to Koka Booth Amphitheatre on July 31 and August 1 for beer and bourbon tastings, smoky barbecue and live music. Friday’s festivities run from 6–10 p.m., with Saturday’s celebration from noon–6 p.m. Afterward, stroll through the gardens and gathering spaces at Downtown Cary Park or explore Cary’s restaurants and shops. Festival details

Nothing says summer quite like a cold slice of watermelon! On August 1, McLean Farms hosts a delightfully old-fashioned day featuring watermelon contests, family activities, tractors, local vendors and plenty of ice cream. Admission is free, with a parking fee. While in town, visit Fuquay Mineral Spring Park or browse the shops, restaurants, and historic buildings of downtown Fuquay-Varina. Explore Fuquay-Varina

Celebrate women in music and the arts on August 1 at The Backyard Bar in Apex. This creative gathering brings together live bands, poetry, an art market, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Make a day of it by visiting historic downtown Apex, where charming storefronts, local restaurants, and the Halle Cultural Arts Center capture the spirit of “The Peak of Good Living.” Discover Apex

Experience the living traditions of Southern Appalachia at the nation’s longest continuously running folk festival. Held July 30–August 1 at Asheville High School, the festival presents three evenings of mountain music, ballad singing, storytelling, clogging, and traditional dance. Complete your getaway with a visit to downtown Asheville, the Folk Art Center, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or the magnificent Biltmore Estate. Festival information

Prepare to be dazzled! From July 30 through August 2, the Three Peaks Enrichment Center will sparkle with gemstones, minerals, fossils, jewelry, and fascinating exhibits from vendors across the country. Admission is $5, and children under 11 enter free. Spruce Pine is also an excellent base for exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway, visiting area gem mines or enjoying the cool mountain scenery. Festival details

On July 31 and August 1, the Fly Around Festival celebrates the natural beauty, creativity and musical heritage of Appalachia at the Lost Province Center for the Cultural Arts. Expect music, crafts, artists, and mountain hospitality in one of North Carolina’s most scenic corners. Bring a chair or blanket, then leave time to wander through Lansing, enjoy the New River area, and take a leisurely drive through Ashe County. Festival details

Kilts, clans, and Celtic spirit take center stage August 1 at Mills River Brewing Company. The all-ages festival runs from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and celebrates Scottish culture with traditional athletics, food, music and family fun. Extend the adventure with a scenic drive, a visit to nearby Hendersonville, or an outing along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Event information

Get ready to dance! The Old School Block Party brings two free nights of live entertainment and food trucks to Corpening Plaza from 7–11 p.m. on July 31 and August 1. The celebration is part of the 2026 International Black Theatre Festival. During the day, explore Old Salem, visit the downtown arts district, or discover Winston-Salem’s galleries, shops, and restaurants. Event details

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary through history, culture, food, music, and storytelling at the Statesville Heritage Festival. This free community celebration takes place August 1 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Statesville Event Center. While you are there, explore historic downtown Statesville, visit Fort Dobbs, or enjoy the area’s shops, breweries, and local restaurants. Festival details

From juicy watermelon and smoky barbecue to Appalachian music and glittering gemstones, this is a weekend made for exploring. Pick one festival for an easy day trip—or turn the journey into a memorable North Carolina summer getaway!

Festival schedules and activities may change. Check the official event website before traveling.

Brittany’s story began when she became a stay-at-home mother and wanted a meaningful way to continue expressing her creativity while remaining present for her children. What started as a creative outlet soon blossomed into a business built on talent, dedication, and heart.

Today, Brittany creates luxurious, handcrafted wreaths for every season, occasion, home, and celebration. Each design is thoughtfully made with premium materials, careful attention to detail, and an artistic eye that transforms an ordinary doorway into an unforgettable welcome.

From cheerful spring florals and rich autumn colors to festive holiday designs and personalized creations, Brittany’s wreaths are anything but ordinary. Customers can choose a design that speaks to them or work with Brittany to create something completely one of a kind.

A wreath from B’s Custom Creations is more than seasonal décor—it is art for your home. It adds beauty and personality, makes guests feel welcome, and creates a lasting first impression. Brittany’s wreaths also make thoughtful gifts for weddings, housewarmings, birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions.

When you purchase one of Brittany’s creations, you are not choosing something mass-produced. You are bringing home an original work of art while supporting a talented local mother, designer, and small-business owner.

If your front door is ready for something extraordinary, let Brittany create a beautiful welcome that is uniquely yours.

Owner and Designer: Brittany Robinson
📞Phone: 919-374-0535
Email: [email protected]
FB: B’s Custom Creations by BR

_{Read Online}

Wake County continues to attract more people than any other county in North Carolina. Recent Census estimates show it leading the state in net migration—the number of people moving in minus those moving out—adding tens of thousands of new residents each year. Roughly three out of every four new residents arrive through migration rather than births.

The draw is a powerful mix of opportunity and quality of life. Wake sits at the heart of the Research Triangle, with strong job growth in technology, life sciences, education, government, and professional services. Major employers, universities such as NC State, and a steady pipeline of new companies create career options that pull in talent from across the country. Compared with higher-cost metros on the coasts, housing and overall living expenses remain relatively competitive, while the area offers good schools, parks, mild weather, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Newcomers tend to be working-age adults and families. Wake County’s median age is about 37, younger than many large U.S. counties, and more than one in five residents is under 18. The population is also highly educated: about 57% of adults age 25 and older hold a bachelor’s degree or higher—well above the national average. Many arrivals are college-educated professionals seeking jobs, better housing value, or a family-friendly environment.

While Raleigh and Cary remain the largest population centers, the fastest percentage growth is happening in the eastern part of the county. According to the latest Census figures:

These eastern towns are seeing rapid new-home construction as people seek more space and newer housing while staying within commuting distance of Raleigh’s job centers. Western and southern suburbs such as Apex, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina continue to grow steadily as well, though at slightly more moderate rates.

In short, Wake County’s combination of jobs, education levels, family appeal, and expanding suburban communities has made it North Carolina’s clear leader for people choosing to put down new roots.

Be sure to explore our newly updated Events Calendar below for this week’s activities, weekend happenings, and exciting events coming soon!📍

Have an event you would like to share, contact us.

Have an event you would like to share, contact us at: [email protected]

Advertise your business with us! Email us at: [email protected]

Sometimes, email servers can cut off parts of the newsletter, making it tricky to enjoy the full experience. For the best reading experience and to catch all the details, click here to view the entire newsletter!

👇👇👇