Pause Studio Expands Its Charlotte Presence with a New South End Location
Photo: Pause Studio
South End will soon have a new destination for recovery and relaxation when Pause Studio opens its second Charlotte location on November 7th. For those unfamiliar with Pause, the brand brings a range of holistic wellness and recovery services together under one roof.
The 4,600-square-foot space at Kingston South End follows Pause’s Arboretum location and will be its largest studio in the country, according to owner Mike Thaler. A dedicated community room will host wellness classes, educational seminars, and gatherings.
“We want this studio to reflect the neighborhood it serves through meaningful local partnerships, community events, and an exceptional guest experience,” Mike said.
The studio is owned by Mike and his wife, Brooke Thaler, alongside business partners Whitney and Jonathan Culp. The venture builds on a connection that predates their involvement with Pause.
“As former collegiate football teammates, Jonathan and I share a deep appreciation for the importance of recovery, wellness, and longevity,” Mike recalled. “Over time, these principles have become increasingly central to our daily lives, inspiring us to come together to bring this vision to life.”
Photo: Pause Studio
South End’s active population helped draw the owners to the neighborhood. Mike envisions guests stopping by after a workout, scheduling a sauna session during the week, or setting aside time for a float. For Mike, convenience is central to that approach.
“We believe wellness should fit into your life, not feel like another obligation.”
The service menu will include floatation therapy, infrared sauna, cold plunge, contrast therapy, LED light therapy, cryotherapy, and compression therapy. Medical offerings will include IV drips, vitamin shots, and NAD+.
Guests do not need prior experience with the treatments to visit. Medical services will be evaluated by licensed clinical professionals, and staff will help newcomers explore their options.
“Our approach starts with a conversation, not a sales pitch,” Mike explained. “We take time to understand each guest's goals, explain the services, answer questions, and help them find a comfortable starting point.”
Guests interested in combining services can explore what Pause calls “stacking.” Mike described possible pairings such as cryotherapy and compression therapy for someone focused on post-workout recovery, or an infrared sauna and float session for someone seeking relaxation. Recommendations will account for individual preferences and relevant health considerations.
Photo: Pause Studio
“But our philosophy isn't that more is better,” he said. “It's about being intentional.”
Guests can book individual sessions, purchase packages, or choose credit-based memberships that apply to eligible services. Membership is not required, allowing visitors to try a treatment before deciding whether to make it part of a regular routine.
“The Pause philosophy is about meeting people where they are,” Mike emphasized. “There's no one-size-fits-all wellness routine and no pressure to try everything. We want guests to feel comfortable, cared for, and confident in their choices.”
Once open, Pause South End will welcome guests daily from 8 AM to 8 PM. Guests can purchase packages at 50% off through November 13th as part of the studio’s presale.
