Hi {{first_name}}
There are some nights that remind you what really matters.
Saturday night was one of them.
We attended the Reese Ward Foundation’s annual fundraising ball—this year themed Hope in Bloom—and it was one of those beautiful, meaningful evenings that stays with you long after you leave.
Together, the community raised over $400,000 in support of melanoma research and cancer care. Just incredible.
But beyond the number, it was the feeling in the room that struck me most—people coming together not just to give, but to honor, to remember, and to carry forward a legacy of making a difference. Family and friends shared stories of Reese Ward who lost his life at just age 30 to stage 4 melanoma.
There was laughter, connection, a little bit of magic (literally… still not sure how that orange juice appeared!), and a shared sense of purpose.
It was also a lovely reminder of how special this community is—how Raleigh shows up for each other in ways both big and small.
We left feeling grateful… and a little more inspired to keep building things that matter too.
Warmly,
Caroline
P.S. Warmer weather is back! Yay! Enjoy. We are spring breaking in Charleston.
This Week’s Top Events
Hello Spring Break - if you have school aged kids you may be enjoying special time with them this week, either at home or a lovely vacation! There are plenty of events happening in Raleigh this week to entertain you.
Don't forget to enjoy the beautiful weather with free things like - spring hikes, spring blooms, and spring picnics - pollen seasoning ok!
Featured Spotlight: “Prelude to Revolution - Halifax Resolves Days
Did you know that Halifax in North Carolina, just 90-minutes from Raleigh, is the "Birthplace of American Independence?"
It’s home of the Halifax Resolves, the historic document that called for complete independence from Great Britain and urged the other 12 colonies to follow suit.
North Carolina is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Halifax Resolves at Historic Halifax on April 10 - 12, 2026.
Special activities include living history demonstrations, musket firings, a military parade, musical performances and more.
It’s a wonderful town with a really cute downtown.
Fave finds from the weekend
Creative Mornings. Loved discovering this local community chapter for local creatives and entrepreneurs. They hold monthly meetings with speakers on a particular theme.
Moxie Hair Salon - helping us look our best for special events - hair styles and glam makeup from Muna, who is a joy to spend time with.
Shaun from Biscuit Belly in Seaboard Station was an absolute joy to encounter when we popped in for a quck brunch in between work gigs. A star server in Raleigh. Their food was pretty good as well!
State of Thrift Fantastic new store from Cheyenne, owner of Little Oak Collective. This time consignment clothes and accessories are aimed towards teens and tweens. Savannah and I went shopping there yesterday - she’s already asking when she can go back. I also found a pair of almost-new Steve Madden summer sandals for a great price.
Shaun from Biscuit Belly
Delicious breakfast bowl
Litte Oak Collective
Muna - Makeup Wizadress
You May Want to Know…
If you’re feeling the pollen pain, you have been validated. Raleigh came in as no 7 in the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s list of worst US cities for allergies.
Duke are out of March Madness. Last night’s difficult 3-point buzzer beater by UConn Freshman Braylon Mullins was the ultimate. Still buzzing about it! UConn men and women are now who I’m rooting for. Our daughter is UConn women’s biggest fan. Duke women are still in - getting through with their own buzzer beater.
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3 Things Worth Planning Now
Reach, Run, Rally! Join our 5K team - walk or run with us and support a great cause! Select THIS IS RALEIGH team when you register.
Historic Oakwood 35th Annual Garden Tour ( Aprill 11 & 12 Read our guide)
April 25: Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival
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This is Raleigh Reader Discounts
Click the links below and use the code as directed. (We’re personal customers of all below)
NC Courage: Discounted single game and season tickets
Gladwell Orthodontics Free teeth whitening treatment with treatment. Mention THIS IS RALEIGH
Compost Now: Free month for your home composting service. CODE: CAZCOMPOSTS
Orca Blue Soft Water System: $500 off system. Mention THIS IS RALEIGH
Crowd Health: Our alternative crowd health funding program. Ds=usciyt fir first 3 months max crowdfunding request Code: CAZMAK
Trusted Housesitters - great for pet owners who love to travel. CODE: YTRAVEL25 for a 25% discount off your membership fee.
Need a Raleigh Realtor?
No need to spend all your resources trying to find a knowledgeable and trustworthy realtor who puts customer care first! We have partnerships with savvy and experienced, local realtors who can help you find your perfect property (or sell the one you have!) allowing you to focus on the more important aspects of your move. You'll also get personal access to us to help you with questions on life in Raleigh! Reply to this email or click the button 👇
