Unwind With An At-Home Charlotte Relaxation Kit
No matter how you relax, you can still show some love to the Queen City.
by Callie Langhorne Jan 14, 2021
Whether it’s putting on your favorite pair of lounge pants, lighting a relaxing candle, mixing a new cocktail, losing yourself in a Netflix show, or diving into a book, these activities might as well be Charlotte-based to show love to our city at the same time, right? Look no further for the ultimate relaxation guide, Queen City edition.
Lounge Fashionably
Three words: comfort is key. While you’re chilling at home by yourself (or with your roommate - significant other or otherwise), may we suggest some Charlotte attire to keep you cozy?
704 Shop
Nothing says comfort like an oversized sweatshirt or long sleeve T-shirt. Opt for a new one (or two) from 704 Shop and receive free shipping.
Glory Days Apparel
Just because you’re not leaving the house doesn’t mean outerwear isn’t appropriate for your next Zoom call. From quarter zips to windbreakers to bomber jackets, Glory Days has free shipping for everything right now.
Rose Gold Rebel
Share the cozy with one of Rose Gold Rebel's Quarantine Care Packages. Choose from a variety of different themes or create your own with selections like custom pajama sets, mugs with sassy sayings, relaxing eye masks and more.
Set the Mood
Did you know smell is the most sensitive of the senses? Essential oils have the power to help control emotional stress through calming properties. Light a candle, fill up your diffuser or pop a bath bomb in your next soak — just trust us.
Pretty Honest Shop
Slow and clean burning, the candles from Pretty Honest Shop burn for up to 50 hours without black smoke or soot and are also biodegradable. Try one of their best sellers — Honeysuckle Jasmine, Green Tea and Lemongrass, or Lemon Lavender — and enjoy free shipping on all orders.
Taj Essentials
More of an essential oils person? Taj Essentials sells over 20 100% pure, grade-A and therapeutic options including cedarwood, eucalyptus and peppermint, plus a pure mist diffuser if you don’t already have one.
Waxhaw Candle Company
With the majority of the products still produced in the town of Waxhaw, NC, Waxhaw Candle Company sells candles and melts, pure essential oils, plus natural bath and body products. Go for a double whammy by dropping a fizzy bath bomb and scrubbing down with one of their vegan, antibacterial and cruelty-free handmade soaps.
Pour It Up
Nothing quite takes the edge off like sipping on a good cocktail, glass of wine or local beer. Instead of experimenting with recipes you find online or snagging a six-pack from the store, check out these local options instead.
Bardo
With five cocktail kit options, there's something for every taste. Kits include each ingredient needed, except for the alcohol, and make about two drinks a kit. You can also order one of their to-go cocktails if you're looking to save some time. One cocktail per person, and a valid ID is required at pickup.
Free Range Brewing
Now with two locations, one in Villa Heights and one in Camp North End, it's never been easier to stock up on some of your favorite local craft beer. See what's on tap or grab a pack of fresh cans. Drive-thru and curbside pickup options are available every day from noon to 8pm.
Haberdish
Cocktail kits are now available thanks to master mixologist, Colleen Hughes and the Haberdish team. The best part? They now include booze. There are five different kits to choose from and can be ordered through the Haberdish website and the Bring the Queen pick-up window on North Davidson Street in NoDa. Please note, a valid ID is required for pickup.
Movies & Chill
What was once a slick date idea has now become an act of heroism during social distancing. So, while you’re binge-watching your streaming outlet of choice, check out these movies that were filmed in the Queen City.
Ashby
Even watching the trailer will make you smile. This feel-good movie features scenes of Plaza Midwood and South Mecklenburg High School, in addition to some familiar faces who might’ve been extras in during filming in 2015.
Logan Lucky
From the producers of “Ocean’s 11” and “Magic Mike” comes “Logan Lucky,” a comedy and action movie filmed at the Coca-Cola 600 race at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Did we mention it stars Channing Tatum and Daniel Craig?
The Rage: Carrie 2
In the mood for a horror movie? “The Rage: Carrie 2” was filmed in Charlotte in 1999. We’re not sure which is more frightening, the terror she brings on her high school or the (lack of) special effects, but who are we to judge?
Time for a Page-Turner
Are your eyes going numb from all of the screen time? Take a break with a book. Need some book store recommendations? Check out the list below.
Park Road Books
Since 1977, Park Road Books has been a Charlotte staple. Browse their bestsellers or their staff picks online, order your selections and call for curbside pickup. You'll be supporting local while giving your phone a break from all the scrolling; a win-win for everyone involved.
Julia's Cafe & Books
Not only is Julia's a great spot for local organic coffee and food, but it's also one of the best used bookstores in the area. With a selection from bestsellers to rare books, you're guaranteed to find your next literary adventure. Shop their books online through their Amazon store.
No matter how you choose to spend your days, we hope you make time for yourself as we all process what is happening in our world right now. And while you’re practicing self-care, remember to Pitch In and Take Out and help out our neighbors who are small business owners, authors, actors or actresses, mixologists, sommeliers and beyond.
