Meet Michele Morgan | Owner of Charlotte the Figgy

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michele Morgan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michele, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I realized years ago that creativity is my medicine. It allows me to feel fulfilled and happy. If I’m not using my creativity, I feel stagnant and unfulfilled.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am the owner of a rare vintage car. A 1991 Nissan Figaro, lovingly named ‘Charlotte the Figgy’ that I rent out for use as a photo prop for events and photo shoots. What sets me apart is having a car that is quite rare. This automobile was made exclusively for the Japanese market and only around 8K or so, are believed to be operational currently. Most people will never see one in their lifetime here in the states.

It’s not always easy to meet the challenges of owning a vintage car, while simultaneously building a business and a brand around that car. This is a very small niche market, so I am navigating that space, as well as learning about the car and what it needs from a mechanical and cosmetic perspective to maintain it. At times its overwhelming, but it’s worth it. Owning a piece of history is never easy. But it’s always worth it! Seeing how people respond to the Figgy, makes it all worthwhile. It makes people smile. And that is priceless in my book. It’s what I love most about owning this car. Making people happy. Having conversations with people I may not have otherwise spoken to. Showcasing what I love about this city of mine I now call home.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is “knowing my worth”. As a creative business owner, to the car itself. I get to choose where and how I spend my time. Some people won’t get it and that’s ok! Those aren’t my people.

I love being creative and working with creatives and using Figgy in this way, has enabled me to cultivate relationships with other creatives. From content creators, to photographers and clients who just “want a pretty picture with the car.” for weddings or special events. With social media being such a massive presence in our lives, many look for unique ways to stand out from the crowd with their images they utilize on their socials. Charlotte the Figgy gives them that edge. It will always be unique and special, because it is so rare. That’s exciting to me!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Charlotte is an amazing city. Lovingly called the Queen City. We have a city rich in art and history, with some of the most incredible restaurants! I love the Soda Shop in Davidson, just across the street from Davidson university. It’s an old school soda shop where you can get a great burger and a fantastic milkshake. It’s an adorable slice of Americana.

Haberdish, Goodyear House, LaBelle Helene and Flowerchild are a few of my favorite eateries. Each of them do an amazing job at showing love through their food. And we all know that food made with love, always tastes better!

Something else I love, are the murals that can be found around the city. Many of my favorites are in NoDa and Uptown. One thing I do want to call out, is when you take a photograph with any of these murals, be sure to tag the artist. As creators of these special gems, they deserve to be recognized for their art. They are a gift to the world, the least we can do is say thank you by recognizing them.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Dedicating this to my family. My husband Wayne and daughter Emma who always have my back. Who encourage me. Listen to my wacky ideas. They truly believe there is nothing I can’t do and I love them for it. They own my heart. Forever and always.

Website: www.charlottethefiggy.com

Instagram: @charlottethefiggy

Image Credits
LunahZon