SHAY’S KITCHEN BRINGS CAROLINA FLAVOR

Charlotte’s own Shay’s Kitchen is serving up a taste of home as Carolina comes together for weddings, celebrations, special events and unforgettable moments.

In a city where food and culture have become a major part of the Charlotte experience, one local kitchen is proving that sometimes the best way to bring people together is to put a good plate of food in front of them.

Meet Shay’s Kitchen, the Charlotte-based food and catering brand making noise throughout the Queen City with the kind of comfort-food experience that feels familiar from the very first bite.

Known online as @shayskitchen704, Shay’s Kitchen has been building a growing following by delivering hearty, soulful meals that bring the feeling of a home-cooked dinner into thej world of events, celebrations and special occasions.

And in 2026, that growing presence has taken the brand beyond individual orders and into some of Charlotte’s biggest entertainment moments.

FROM THE KITCHEN TO THE EVENT SCENE

Catering is about much more than simply preparing food. For weddings, birthday celebrations, private gatherings, corporate functions and entertainment events, the food becomes part of the experience.

That is where Shay’s Kitchen has found its lane.

The brand has positioned itself around catering, private events, special orders and custom menus, giving clients an opportunity to bring a taste of Southern comfort to their own celebrations. Public posts promoting the business specifically highlight catering, private events, special orders and custom menus.

That versatility is especially important in Charlotte's event scene, where caterers regularly have to move between intimate gatherings and large-scale celebrations while maintaining consistency in flavor, presentation and service.

Shay's Kitchen appears to be embracing that challenge head-on.

A MENU THAT FEELS LIKE HOME

One look at the buzz surrounding Shay's Kitchen online and the appeal becomes clear: this is comfort food.

Social media posts and customer content have highlighted dishes including turkey wings, baked macaroni and cheese, chicken Alfredo and crab fries, giving followers a glimpse into the variety coming out of the kitchen.

The response has been strong enough that Shay's Kitchen has even promoted "sold out Saturdays," thanking customers for their continued support.

For a growing food business, those moments say something important.

People aren't simply discovering the brand—they're coming back.

And when customers start requesting dishes to return to the menu, it becomes an even stronger sign that a food brand is creating memorable connections. A recent post from Shay's Kitchen specifically mentioned customers asking for the return of smothered turkey wings and baked macaroni and cheese.

SHAY'S KITCHEN JOINS THE CAROLINA MUSIC VIDEO AWARDS

Perhaps one of the biggest opportunities for the brand in 2026 came through the entertainment community.

Shay's Kitchen was selected as an official food vendor for the 10th Annual Carolina Music Video Awards, connecting the culinary brand with an event celebrating music, videos and the creative culture of the Carolinas.

That partnership represents more than simply serving food at an event.

For a Charlotte food brand, becoming part of an entertainment event like the Carolina Music Video Awards puts the kitchen directly in front of artists, creatives, industry professionals, fans and event-goers—all potential future customers and collaborators. It also demonstrates the growing relationship between Charlotte's food and entertainment communities. Music brings people into the room.

Food gives them another reason to stay.And Shay's Kitchen is stepping into that intersection.

MORE THAN A MEAL

There is something uniquely Southern about feeding people. Food has always been part of how families celebrate birthdays, weddings, graduations, reunions and milestones. It is how people welcome guests, honor accomplishments and create memories. That tradition fits naturally into the mission of a catering business. For Shay's Kitchen, the opportunity is to take that same feeling people associate with sitting around the family table and bring it into today's event culture.Whether it's a wedding reception, birthday celebration, private gathering or entertainment event, the goal is bigger than filling a plate. It's about creating an experience.

Shay's Kitchen is entering a Charlotte food and catering market that has become increasingly diverse and competitive. Local caterers serve everything from Southern comfort food and soul food to globally inspired menus, weddings, corporate gatherings and private celebrations. That environment creates an opportunity for smaller, independent food businesses to stand out by developing a recognizable personality and building relationships directly with customers.

Shay's Kitchen's social-media-driven approach is helping it do exactly that. The brand's growing visibility on Instagram, combined with customer-generated content and recurring menu promotions, gives the kitchen a direct connection to the people it serves.And in today's food business, that connection can be just as valuable as traditional advertising.

THE FUTURE LOOKS FLAVORFUL

The story of Shay's Kitchen is still being written. What started with food is developing into something bigger—a catering brand becoming increasingly visible throughout Charlotte's social, culinary and entertainment communities. From individual plates to private events, from special orders to major entertainment gatherings, Shay's Kitchen is showing that there is room at Charlotte's table for businesses willing to put passion behind what they serve.

And with the brand's continued momentum in 2026, don't be surprised if you start seeing @shayskitchen704 attached to even more celebrations across the Queen City.

Because when Carolina comes together, somebody has to feed the people.

And Shay's Kitchen is ready to bring the flavor.

Follow Shay's Kitchen on Instagram: @shayskitchen704

AMaysIn Productions Unlimited: Ms. Dee Mays Is Turning Event Services Into a Household Name

When it comes to creating memorable experiences, Ms. Dee Mays is proving that there is no limit to what creativity, versatility, and quality event services can bring to the table. Through AMaysIn Productions Unlimited, Dee Mays is building a brand designed to be the first name people think of when it is time to celebrate.From photobooths and pool rentals to character visits and officiant services, AMaysIn Productions Unlimited offers a growing lineup of services designed to make events more exciting, convenient, and memorable.But what makes Ms. Dee Mays particularly stand out is her presence across a wide variety of events and experiences. Through events she has showcased online, her work and involvement have extended into major entertainment and community occasions, including the 7th Annual Southern Plug Music Awards and the Stellar Awards, demonstrating the versatility of her event-focused brand and her ability to be part of celebrations ranging from grassroots entertainment events to nationally recognized award-show experiences.

Her involvement with events like the Southern Plug Music Awards is especially significant because it represents the type of event where entertainment, networking, branding, hospitality, and memorable guest experiences all come together. It is exactly the type of environment where a company like AMaysIn Productions Unlimited can showcase its ability to bring an extra level of excitement to an occasion.And that's only part of what makes the company so appealing.Imagine being able to handle multiple elements of your event through one trusted source. Need a photobooth to give your guests something fun to do? AMaysIn has you covered. Looking to add a pool experience to your celebration? They can help. Want to surprise younger guests with a character visit? That's another option. Planning a wedding and need an officiant? AMaysIn Productions Unlimited can help there too.

And the savings can make the experience even better. Clients who bundle services can receive major discounts, making it possible to create a bigger and more memorable event without unnecessarily stretching the budget. Instead of searching for multiple vendors and coordinating several different companies, clients can explore multiple services through one brand. For Ms. Dee Mays, AMaysIn Productions Unlimited is about much more than simply providing individual services. It is about becoming a trusted resource for people who want their special moments to stand out. Her growing presence at different types of events—from celebrations and private functions to entertainment-centered occasions like the Southern Plug Music Awards and experiences connected to the Stellar Awards—reflects the kind of versatility that can help take an event-services company to the next level.As AMaysIn Productions Unlimited continues to grow, Ms. Dee Mays is making it clear that she wants her company to become synonymous with fun, convenience, creativity, and unforgettable events. So, before you start contacting a long list of vendors for your next celebration, do yourself a favor: contact Ms. Dee Mays first. With photobooths, pool rentals, character visits, officiant services, bundled packages, and much more, AMaysIn Productions Unlimited is positioning itself as the one-stop shop for making your next event truly AMaysIn!

Fleet’s #1 DJ: DJ PynkDyamond Makes History With Three DJ of the Year Honors in 2026

From commanding the turntables to dominating the DJ scene, DJ PynkDyamond is proving why she’s Fleet’s #1 DJ—earning the prestigious title of DJ of the Year three times in 2026 alone.

DJ PynkDyamond (born Becky Gaston) is a multi-award-winning DJ, radio operations executive, professional model, and event architect based out of 

Fredericksburg, Virginia. Her musical journey began at age 12, progressing from the flutophone to earning 1st Chair Trumpet in high school before a successful 2011 Dallas fashion show production shifted her focus to 

professional DJing. Since her breakthrough at the 2016 Miami Takeover Pool Party, she has risen rapidly through the ranks of the Worldwide Fleet DJs coalition, which she joined in 2021. Today, she serves as the 

Fleet DJs Operations Manager, Radio Operations Manager, and Radio Program Director for the all-female 2Fli Fleet Radio, managing programming across 

nine streaming and FM stations. 

A 10-time award winner—including multiple Fleet DJs State of the Year honors and Model of the Year—she balances her heavy radio presence with executive event planning, such as the Virginia FleetDjs Music Conference, and modeling management under DCS Entertainment & Management Co LLC.

Ellis Peterson Is Building A Carolina Music Empire Through Penk Entertainment

In the ever-evolving landscape of independent Southern music, few executives have worked as relentlessly behind the scenes as Ellis Peterson. As the Founder and CEO of PENK Entertainment, Peterson has spent years developing artists, creating opportunities, and building a platform designed to showcase talent from South Carolina and beyond. What started as a vision rooted in the small-town culture of Lake City, South Carolina, has grown into a movement that continues to impact artists across multiple genres. For Peterson, music has always been about more than entertainment. Growing up in Lake City, he witnessed firsthand the abundance of talent that often went unnoticed outside local communities. The Pee Dee region has long produced gifted singers, songwriters, and performers, yet many lacked access to the industry relationships and resources needed to reach larger audiences. Those observations would eventually shape Peterson’s mission as an entrepreneur and music executive. Rather than waiting for opportunities to arrive, Peterson set out to create them himself. That determination led to the formation of PENK Entertainment, a company focused on artist development, promotion, live events, and brand building. Through years of networking, event promotion, and grassroots marketing, Peterson established a reputation as someone willing to invest in artists and help them expand their reach. Today, PENK Entertainment boasts a diverse roster that includes artists such as Mainetaine, Mr. Vandross, Tia Catillia, Quanfr, and several emerging performers throughout the Carolinas. Under Peterson's leadership, the label has become known for supporting Southern Soul, Country, R&B, Hip-Hop, and crossover artists who bring authentic Southern storytelling to their music. Among the company's most recognized artists is Mainetaine, whose unique blend of country influences and Southern culture has helped him develop a loyal fan base throughout the Southeast. His music continues to resonate with listeners who appreciate authentic storytelling and real-life experiences. Mainetaine's growing catalog and live performances have made him one of the most recognizable faces associated with the PENK brand. Mr. Vandross has also become a notable part of the company's growth. Known for his smooth vocal delivery and Southern Soul influence, he represents the type of artist Peterson believes can connect multiple generations of music fans. Through performances, recordings, and regional touring opportunities, Mr. Vandross continues to expand his audience while helping strengthen the label's presence in the Southern Soul market. Another standout artist is Tia Catillia, whose releases have helped establish her as one of the emerging female voices within Southern music. Her single releases and growing visibility have contributed to the label's continued momentum. As one of the prominent women on the PENK roster, Tia Catillia brings versatility and energy that complements the company's diverse artist lineup. Peterson has also supported rising artists such as Quanfr, whose growing catalog and increasing recognition throughout South Carolina have positioned him as one of the younger talents to watch. Through PENK Entertainment, Quanfr has gained additional exposure while continuing to build his own unique musical identity. Beyond the music itself, Peterson has invested heavily in creating performance opportunities for his artists. From showcases and community events to larger regional productions, PENK Entertainment has become known for bringing artists directly to fans. The company's event promotions have helped expose audiences to both established performers and rising talent while creating valuable networking opportunities throughout the industry. What separates Peterson from many independent executives is his long-term commitment to artist growth. Rather than chasing overnight success, he has focused on developing careers one step at a time. That patient approach has allowed PENK Entertainment to steadily expand its influence while maintaining strong relationships with artists and supporters. As the Carolina music scene continues to gain national attention, Ellis Peterson remains focused on the future. His vision for PENK Entertainment extends beyond individual releases and performances. He aims to create a lasting infrastructure capable of helping independent artists navigate an increasingly competitive music business. From his roots in Lake City, South Carolina, to building one of the region's growing independent entertainment brands, Peterson's story serves as a reminder that success often begins with a commitment to community. Through PENK Entertainment, he has transformed a local dream into a platform that continues to elevate artists, create opportunities, and contribute to the culture of Southern music. For Elliss Peterson, the mission remains the same as it was from the beginning: discover talent, create opportunities, and ensure that the voices of the Carolinas continue to be heard.

Penk Ent receiving an plaque on the red carpet at 

the 7th Annual Southern Plug Music 

Awards in Charlotte 

Penk Entertainment Execs Pictured With Label Front Runners (Pictured Left To Right): Quanfr, Tia Catillia, Maintaine, Mcbeth864,  & Ellis Peterson 

Mr. Vandross: The Soulful Voice Carrying the Legacy of Southern Soul

With timeless vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and unmistakable soul, Mr. Vandross is bringing a powerful new energy to the Southern Soul movement.

Q. Hey everyone it’s ya boy Darren Southern Plug Brown, here with a mega Southern Plug Exclusive. Introducing to some, Mr. Vandross So, tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do exactly.

A. Mr.Vandross. I am a singer, songwriter, producer, just an all around musician.

Q. So, what inspired you to start your journey asan artist?

A. Watching artists like the O'jays, Stylistics and the Temptations just to name a few inspired me for sure.

Q. How and when did you coin your stage name, Mr. Vandross? And, how do you feel that title fits you?

A. Really it's been my name a few years now. But in some arenas I’m known as The Mystro! 

Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or announcements to make?

A. Yes I do have some new projects on the way.

Q. What would you say is the quote on quote secret recipe for your success?

A. Seeing the satisfaction on the fans faces.

Q. What was your favorite part about being a musical artist?

A. Reaching the audience. 

Q. Tell our readers how they can book you and 

connect with you on the world wide web and on 

the socials.

A. You can find me on Facebook at Steven 

Vandross 

MAINTAINE: THE VOICE OF CAROLINA COUNTRY

By Darren Southern Plug Brown

In the heart of South Carolina, where dirt roads stretch for miles and small-town values still matter, country artist Maintaine has built a career on authenticity. While many artists chase trends, Maintaine has stayed committed to telling real stories about family, faith, hard work, and life in the rural South. That commitment has transformed him from a local performer into one of the Carolinas’ most respected independent country artists. Raised in South Carolina, Maintaine's upbringing was rooted in the traditions that have long defined Southern culture. Growing up around country living, family gatherings, church influences, and the everyday experiences of rural life, he developed a deep appreciation for storytelling. Those early experiences would eventually become the foundation of his songwriting and musical identity. Unlike artists manufactured by major labels, Maintaine built his career through persistence, live performances, and a genuine connection with his audience. His music reflects the people and places that shaped him, allowing listeners to see themselves in his songs. Through years of performing throughout the Carolinas, he has developed a reputation for delivering music that is honest, relatable, and proudly Southern. During previous conversations with Southern Plug, Maintaine discussed his love for country life, the lessons learned growing up in South Carolina, and the importance of staying true to his roots. Like many country storytellers, he draws inspiration from everyday experiences and the values that define Southern communities. Everyday experiences and the values that define Southern communities. 

 

His music celebrates resilience, gratitude, and the simple moments that often mean the most. A major reason for Maintaine's growing popularity is his ability to create records that paint vivid pictures of Southern life. Songs such as "Droptop Mustang" showcase his appreciation for country freedom, backroad adventures, and the lifestyle that many of his fans know firsthand. Meanwhile, "Kentucky Derby" demonstrates his ability to blend Southern culture, ambition, and storytelling into music that feels both personal and universally relatable. These records have helped establish his signature sound while introducing new audiences to his unique perspective as a Carolina country artist. Maintaine continued to build momentum with the release of his latest EP, "Foreclosure." The project represents one of his most mature bodies of work to date, exploring themes of perseverance, sacrifice, hardship, and overcoming adversity. Through heartfelt lyrics and authentic storytelling, Foreclosure further solidifies Maintaine's reputation as an artist who isn't afraid to tackle real-life situations that many listeners face every day. The EP demonstrates both his growth as a songwriter and his commitment to creating music with substance and meaning. The year 2025 marked a historic chapter in Maintaine's career. His dedication to independent country music was recognized when he earned Country Artist of the Year honors at both the Southern Plug Music Awards and the Metro Music Awards. Winning two major regional awards in the same year served as validation of the hard work he had invested throughout his journey and further established him as one of the premier independent country artists in the Southeast. What separates Maintaine from many artists in today's music landscape is his refusal to abandon authenticity. His music isn't built around trends or gimmicks. Instead, it focuses on real stories about real people. Whether performing for a packed venue, a county fair, a festival stage, or a small-town gathering, he approaches every performance with the same passion and appreciation for the fans who support his journey. As his profile continues to rise, Maintaine represents a growing movement of independent Southern artists proving that success can be achieved without compromising identity. His accomplishments have helped shine a spotlight on South Carolina's thriving country music scene while inspiring other independent artists to pursue their dreams. Today, Maintaine stands as one of the Carolinas' most recognizable independent country voices. With award-winning music, a growing catalog of releases, and an unwavering dedication to his roots, he continues to build a legacy that extends far beyond state lines. Yet despite the accolades and recognition, he remains what he has always been—a South Carolina country boy telling stories that matter. For Maintaine, the journey has never been about fame. It has been about creating music that speaks to everyday people. That authenticity is exactly why fans continue to connect with songs like "Droptop Mustang," "Kentucky Derby," and the powerful material featured on his latest EP, "Foreclosure." Those records represent more than music; they represent the experiences, dreams, struggles, and triumphs of the people who proudly call the South home. As Southern Plug Magazine looks ahead, one thing is certain: Maintaine's story is still being written. With multiple award victories, an expanding fan base, and some of the strongest music of his career arriving through Foreclosure, the future appears brighter than ever for South Carolina's rising country star. If his recent success is any indication, the next chapter may be his biggest yet.

Yung Ham: Fresh Off the Road With the AMG Twinz and On His Way to Superstardom

Fresh off the road alongside the AMG Twinz, Lake City’s Yung Ham is turning heads with his relentless grind, undeniable talent, and rising momentum as he sets his sights on hip-hop superstardom with his upcoming string of hits featuring the Super group

Q. Hey everyone it’s ya boy Darren Southern Plug Brown, here with a mega Southern Plug Exclusive. Introducing to some,(artist's name). So, tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do exactly.

A. What it do bru, Yung Ham checking in from Woodruff,SC. I’m pulling up with raw trap music shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of the rural dirt roads of South Carolina. I've been working on my craft for years,but I have been taking it more seriously these last six months. Stay tuned for all that is to come, and tune in to what is already done. #GoHam 

Q. So, what inspired you to start your journey as a rapper?

A. To be able to tell my story, while showing my small town that big dreams are made for us too.

Q. How and when did you coin your stage name and how do you feel that title fits you?

A. My last name is Cunningham, so ham is natural. #Goham

Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or announcements to make?

A. I just came off of the "Juggin like Scooter Tour" head lined by AMG TWINZ ft. Me. I have a E.P. with them dropping and my own solo project dropping later this summer. So tap and #GoHAM 

Q. What would you say is the secret recipe for your success?

A. Consistency and #McBethSaidit 

Q. What was your favorite part about what you do?

A. Watching someone listening to me the first time and gaining them as a fan.

Q. Name a time where you've faced adversity in your career? And, what impact did it have on you or your career?

A. Being apart of the Bankroll movement and that motion faded because of incarnation and death. I learned to build a foundation around what my vision is.

Q. Is there something in particular that you want people to know about you or your art?

A. Yes, I'm here to shed light on the rural Carolina story. Dirt Road trapper without a voice in the industry or streets. Legends come from these woods.

Q. How do you juggle your personal life and professional life?

A. Family First. My children are active in sports so I spend Saturday mornings on a softball field and Saturday nights on stage.

Q. What advice would you give those wanting to start their journey in your field?

A. Stay consistent, always do good business, remember if you're in the room you belong in the room.

Q. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why?

A. Young Dolph, point blank period!

Q. Ok we do this every interview! What creatives would you absolutely die to work with?

A. Trap Dickey for sure! He's that 1.

Q. Tell our readers how they can book you and connect with you on the world wide web and on the socials.

A. Contact Penk Entertainment for all booking inquiries.