For Catherine Bickford, her role is much more than curating experiences and merchandising at our places; it is about serving her community.
Native to Charlotte, Catherine embodies a genuine passion for her North Carolina hometown. With her vast knowledge of the city and its history, to personal memories and love for her home, Catherine has established herself as a true steward of the community.
After graduating from UNC, Catherine returned home to pursue her professional career. While working and spending time with friends and family, Catherine took notice that the community was lacking a true gathering place for retail, dining and meaningful connection.
Seeing an opportunity to make a change in the community, Catherine took a leap of faith and decided to pursue an interest in real estate. Learning of EDENS and the acquisition of Park Road Shopping Center, Catherine joined the EDENS team as a Leasing Representative. With her local insight and charisma, Catherine was tasked with curating a mix of retailers that would resonate with the local community.
“Born and raised in Charlotte, EDENS gave me the opportunity that was a dream come true: to be part of a team that would revive Park Road and ultimately spark new conversation and community connection in my hometown.”
From handshake to opening, Catherine worked closely with retailers and restaurateurs to bring a dynamic place that both retail partners and visitors alike could call home. Notably, Catherine brought in prohibition-style bar Dot Dot Dot to Park Road. What began as a conversation soon shifted to a renovation of the backlot of Park Road— more specifically, a maintenance shed. Catherine and the owners of Dot Dot Dot collaborated on renovating this obscure space into a sleek cocktail bar that has now been recognized as one of the “15 Most Beautiful Restaurants in Charlotte.”
What was once an overlooked area, the backlot of Park Road has also become home to locally famed restaurant Flourshop and a neighboring art gallery. Curating an eclectic mix of retail, Catherine’s innovative thinking and tight-knit relationships with partners have given the community a unique place to socialize and experience something special.
Rooted in the Charlotte community, Catherine’s thoughtful care and commitment are seen throughout Park Road. What once served as a place for quick errand shopping has now become a place of pride, intertwined in the daily lives of residents. Growing up in Charlotte, shopping at Park Road and now an integral part of the development of the center, Catherine represents the past, present and future of this great community.
Culture