Presented with the Support of United Bank
United Bank is the community bank for the markets we serve. We offer local decision-making and the personalized service our customers have come to expect since 1839, with the insights, technologies, products, and services of a large bank - and a deep commitment to the communities in which we operate.
United Bank isn't just growing to get bigger. We are growing to satisfy the continued demand for a bank that focuses on service. We are committed to developing long-term personal relationships with every customer we serve. Our flexible, local decision-making approach enables our team to create customized solutions to help United customers grow and thrive. With more than 240 locations and over 2,700 employees, our experienced leadership, consistent performance, and focus on relationships make United the bank of choice for the customers, investors, team members, and communities we serve.
United is committed to serving its communities and its customers with safe, sound, and secure practices - backed by strong earnings, sound asset quality, and strong capital - that have allowed us to weather any storm for more than 187 years. Because of this, our employees, customers, shareholders, and communities can rely on us to be their banking partner for decades to come.
Premier Sponsor
A Standard of Service, A Commitment to Community
Denver Plumbing Company has proudly served the Denver and Lake Norman area since 1953. From a small one man and a truck business, Denver Plumbing now offers residential and commercial new construction installation, remodel/renovation and has a large service department to handle our customers' plumbing needs. Locally owned and operated by Jeff Smiley, we pride ourselves on providing the most up-to-date plumbing solutions while continuing to provide customer service that has a small town feel.
From 1953 to today, the same founding principles continue to this day: integrity, excellent customer service, and commitment to the Lake Norman community.
Signature Sponsor
Burners Tobacconist & Gentleman's Goods
Burners Tobacconist & Gentleman’s Goods is a refined, boutique tobacconist in Denver, NC, offering premium cigars alongside a curated selection of gentleman’s essentials. Built around cigars and thoughtfully expanded for life, the shop blends tradition with modern craftsmanship—featuring accessories, gifts, and distinctive finds not commonly available in the Lake Norman area. As a locally owned business and new partnership between Ross Bulla and Josh Johnson, Burners reflects a shared commitment to quality, experience, and community.
Champion Sponsors
E S Foods
The team at E S Foods is passionate about school foodservice and helping feed hungry children. Our company was founded to develop products and solutions for school foodservice, and we remain deeply committed to our mission to serve as a resource to nutrition directors and managers. From our initial beginnings we have worked with the following criteria in developing our products.
- “Kid-friendly” and nutritious
- Cost-effective and convenient to serve
- Help increase participation in the school program
State Farm - Rich Lyon, Agent
Rich Lyon brings a thoughtful, client-first approach to insurance. Known for responsive service and clear communication, Rich works closely with individuals and families to create personalized coverage that protects what matters most — from homes and vehicles to financial security and future goals. Deeply connected to the Lake Norman community, he is also an active supporter of local organizations and initiatives that strengthen the region he proudly serves.
Beckley, Wetmore & Whitener Wealth Advisors
Founded in 2020, Beckley, Whitener & Wetmore Wealth Advisors is an independent fiduciary firm dedicated to building lasting, multigenerational client relationships. Proudly rooted in Western North Carolina, the firm provides personalized financial planning and guidance tailored to each client’s goals, always acting with independence, integrity, and a commitment to putting clients first.
Dry Pond Animal Hospital & Pet Resort
Dry Pond Animal Hospital and Pet Resort was founded in 2023 by Dr. Andrew Pierce, a veterinarian whose roots in the Denver, NC community run deeper than most. Dr. Pierce began his career right here in Denver as kennel staff at a local general practice before working his way through vet school and going on to found Denver Animal Emergency, now BluePearl Lake Norman, directly across the street. When the opportunity came to bring that same commitment to exceptional, compassionate medicine into a full-service general practice, he built Dry Pond from the ground up. This is a practice born from genuine love for this community and the people and pets who call it home.
Experience & Hospitality Partners
Oak & Ember Lounge Sponsor
The Oak & Ember Lounge is made possible through the support of Trinity Commercial Cleaning, a veteran- and family-owned company serving businesses throughout the Lake Norman region. Known for their professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to high standards, Trinity provides commercial cleaning, janitorial, and disinfection services designed to keep workplaces clean, safe, and welcoming.
Their sponsorship reflects the same philosophy that defines their work—care, reliability, and pride in doing things well. We are grateful to Trinity Commercial Cleaning for helping create a place within the evening where guests can slow down, connect, and enjoy the atmosphere that makes Cigars, Bourbon & Benefactors special.
House Bars Sponsor
We are grateful for the support of Brooke Lyerly of Mark 1 Realty, whose commitment to the Lincoln County community extends far beyond real estate. Known for her dedication, professionalism, and personal approach, Brooke has built a reputation for helping families not just find houses — but truly feel at home.
Her support of this event reflects a shared belief in strengthening our community and investing in the well-being of those who call it home. We are proud to recognize Brooke as a valued partner in making a meaningful impact right here in Lincoln County.
Culinary Sponsor
Cigars, Bourbon & Benefactors is proud to recognize Fit Realty and Andie Taylor as a Culinary Sponsor.
As the owner and broker of Fit Realty, Andie has built a reputation for personalized service, integrity, and a genuine commitment to helping families throughout the Lake Norman region find the perfect place to call home. Through Fit Realty, she and her team serve buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants across multiple North Carolina counties while remaining deeply invested in the communities they serve.
Beyond real estate, Andie is a dedicated Rotarian and active supporter of numerous local charitable initiatives.
Guest Comfort Sponsor
The Guest Comfort Sponsor helps provide the luxury restroom accommodations that support the comfort and hospitality of the evening. Thoughtfully appointed and professionally maintained, these upscale mobile restroom suites ensure guests enjoy the same refined experience and attention to detail throughout every part of Cigars, Bourbon & Benefactors.
At Certified Waste Management and Services, we are dedicated to providing the best waste management solutions. Our team ensures prompt and reliable service, offering a range of dumpster rentals, junk removal services, and recycling options to meet your specific needs.
Patio Furniture Sponsor
Lowe's Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) is a FORTUNE® 50 home improvement company serving approximately 16 million customer transactions a week in the United States. With total fiscal year 2023 sales of more than $86 billion, Lowe's operates over 1,700 home improvement stores and employs approximately 300,000 associates. Based in Mooresville, N.C., Lowe's supports the communities it serves through programs focused on creating safe, affordable housing and helping to develop the next generation of skilled trade experts. For more information, visit Lowes.com.
Photo Station Sponsor
At Dreaming of Departures Travel, we believe that every journey should be as unique as you are. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic escape, an adventurous cruise, or a magical trip to a theme park, our expert team is here to help you craft the perfect itinerary. Let us take the stress out of planning so you can focus on making memories. Schedule a consultation with us today and let's start turning your travel dreams into reality!
Old Fashioned Cocktail Bar Host
With over 550 whiskies from around the world, a thoughtfully curated wine list, and a robust craft cocktail program, BIN110 is a destination for both enthusiasts and the casually curious.
From rare and allocated pours to classic favorites done right, our knowledgeable team is here to guide—not intimidate. Drink what you love, discover something new, and enjoy every sip.
Official Bakery
LKN Cheesecakery has been delighting dessert lovers since 2015, bringing New York-style cheesecakes to the heart of the Lake Norman community. What started as a passion project in Kim Greene’s home kitchen has since blossomed into a local favorite, known for offering the most diverse and delicious cheesecakes in town.
We aren’t afraid to get creative — our menu is always evolving with new and exciting flavors. From classic New York-style to something different, we have a cheesecake for you!
But that’s not all — we’re more than just a bakery. Our dessert truck travels throughout the Lake Norman area and even to five surrounding states, bringing our signature treats right to your doorstep.
Official Media Sponsor
Reach an active, engaged audience with both the desire to live well and the means to do it.
"Cigars, Bourbon & Benefactors" reaches 88,000 readers in Denver, Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, and Mooresville through monthly half-page print ads and ongoing promotion on the Lake Norman Citizen website. While our advertising will draw thousands to our site, we also encourage sponsors and participants to launch their own campaigns to boost engagement with this exciting event.
Protector Sponsors
Serving Denver, NC since 1976
We’re a family business run by a husband and wife team. Since our founding in 1976, we’ve remained locally owned and operated. We offer a team of the most experienced professionals in the area, focused on flooring and interior design. Our newly-renovated showroom features many of today’s most popular flooring styles and products from the top brand names in the industry including Shaw, Dixie Home, Karastan, and Mohawk. We’re here to handle all of your flooring and design needs, whether you're in need of new hardwood flooring or want to update your window treatments! We are proud to carry top Shaw products including Anso, Caress, Clearly Chic, ClearTouch, EverTouch, Anderson Tuftex, COREtec, and more!
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We are not promised an easy life and the world can be unforgiving. At Carolina Counseling & Consulting Services, clients of all ages can find help when struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance use disorder, addiction, anger management, relationship issues, ADHD, parenting concerns, marital difficulties, grief, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and more.
Understand. Heal. Grow. We Can Do This Together.
The core of our practice is meeting people where they are without judgment in a quiet and comfortable space that allows the freedom to discuss even the deepest personal hurts or struggles. Our therapists will equip you with tools and ideas about how to manage life so you can reduce anxiety and depression, have healthier relationships, find healing, and promote peace.
Valley Storage is proud to be a member of the local community.
We’re deeply grateful to Valley Storage - Denver for generously donating a storage unit to support the success of Cigars, Bourbon & Benefactors. Their commitment to our mission ensured that critical items were kept organized, secure, and ready when we needed them most — from décor and equipment to event essentials.
Valley Storage delivers the convenience and reliability you want when safeguarding your belongings, with a variety of unit options and trusted storage solutions right here in Denver. If you’re looking for a local storage partner that stands behind you — whether you’re storing business inventory, seasonal gear, or life’s extra treasures — Valley Storage has the space and service to fit your needs.
Wealth Management & Financial Planning
As a financial advisor and Certified Financial Planner™, I’ve made it my life’s work to help my clients navigate the complex and ever-changing world of finance.
Every day, I meet with clients who have put their trust in me and my experience to guide them towards their financial goals. Some are just starting out on their journey, while others have amassed great wealth and are looking for ways to preserve and grow it.
Regardless of their situation, I treat every client with equal determination and understanding. It is my responsibility to assist them in pursuing their aspirations, whether it’s purchasing their first house, funding their children’s education, or retiring comfortably.
Building a connection built on trust and mutual respect is crucial. Because, to me, being a financial advisor means more than just crunching numbers and analyzing charts; it’s about empowering people to live the lives they desire and deserve.
Made for the Pour, Built for the Pause
Handcrafted from real whiskey barrels...
Used barrels get hauled to our Southern California shop where the air smells of leather and polish. We sort, cut, and prep each one to become something worthy of the grit it lived through. The oak gets reshaped, the steel gets tightened, and full grain leather gets stitched with care. By the end, that old barrel becomes a recliner - one perfect to enjoy a glass of whiskey on.
every piece carries a story soaked in oak and smoke.
This "Saloon Whiskey" recliner is on display at Cigars, Bourbon & Benefactors as a tribute to craftsmanship and shared ritual.
Made from a once-working whiskey barrel and finished by hand, it reflects the same values behind this event: patience, character, and things meant to be enjoyed slowly. While it won’t be used as general seating during the evening, guests are invited to take a moment, sit down, and experience it for themselves.
Go ahead—sit down. That’s the point.