Happy 2026, everyone! It’s crazy to think about how much has changed since I first joined the Journal in August 2022 as a contributing writer/reporter. For my first editor’s note, I want to tell the somewhat funny story of how I ended up here.
For those of you who may not know, I am originally from Fort Smith, Arkansas. After graduating from the University of Central Arkansas in May 2022, I began my job hunt.
Funny enough, there’s actually a “Fayetteville” in Arkansas, too. In fact, it was the only Fayetteville I knew existed until one fateful day, while browsing through jobs on LinkedIn, I stumbled upon a listing for a business journal in Fayetteville, N.C.
I thought to myself, “Huh, might as well submit my resume, it couldn’t hurt.” Then one interview led to another, and I was preparing to drive 1,050 miles with my car filled to the brim to move into a new apartment in a city where I knew no one.
I’ve told this story countless times, and people continuously commend me for being bold in stepping so far outside of what was familiar to me. I must admit I certainly surprised myself with the decision, and while it wasn’t easy, it has resulted in much personal growth, great professional opportunities and many new cherished memories.
Now, I’m excited to start the new year as editor of Greater Fayetteville Business Journal. I’m proud of the stories I get to help share through this publication, many of which highlight business owners and professionals who made bold leaps similar to my own to get where they are today.
After three and a half years, I’m happy to have been able to share a little more of my own story with you all, our loyal readers. Sometimes your search for a job in a city that’s one hour away from your hometown leads to a new chapter in a new state, and it’s exactly where you’re meant to go.
There’s a popular saying, “do it for the plot,” which means to do something bold or spontaneous because it makes your life story more interesting. While I didn’t move across states for a new job simply “for the plot,” it has definitely made my story more interesting. I encourage you to do something bold this new year. Learn a new skill, visit a new business, start a new business, invest in new ideas, collaborate with someone new–do whatever feels right to grow and push yourself towards new heights. And when you’re ready to share the new chapter of your business’s story with the world, we’re here to help you.
After workshopping the idea for a new restaurant concept with a few regular customers, Brian and Staci decided to take a chance on Napkins, their first business and Brian’s first experience owning a restaurant.
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
