Catherine Donaldson has represented the Sotheby’s International Realty brand for over 17 years. Her commitment to the brand is FIERCE. Call her today to discover why.
Sweeping Intracoastal Waterway views take center stage from this remarkable first floor villa at The Charles, Hilton Head Island’s newest waterfront address. One of only 22 residences, this western facing property enjoys breathtaking sunsets over the Intracoastal Waterway. Thoughtfully designed and beautifully finished, the interiors offer refined coastal sophistication with captivating waterfront views from the owner’s suite as well as the main living and dining areas. Just beyond, the generous deck invites effortless outdoor living, with private stairs descending directly to the pool and shoreline. Distinctive and impossible to replicate, this is waterfront living of rare caliber.
Photographed in Hilton Head, SC
THREE BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED WATERFRONT COTTAGES, A 100-FOOT PRIVATE DOCK, AND 3.25 ACRES OF NATURAL BEAUTY. MOON RIVER OFFERS THE RARE OPPORTUNITY TO RENT AN ENTIRE ISLAND-STYLE RETREAT FOR YOUR GROUP.
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Opening June 2
Bluffton was built on closeness — to family, to neighbors, to a way of life worth protecting.
For too long, the one thing far away was health care worthy of this community. That changes June 2. MUSC Health is bringing its network of top-ranked physicians, nationally recognized Hollings Cancer Center and decades of advanced research right to your doorstep. From leading cardiac specialists to physicians who take the time to listen, Bluffton Medical Pavilion was built for the people who call this place home.
Bluffton Medical Pavilion
700 Buckwalter Towne Boulevard, Bluffton
Primary Care | Pulmonary | Vascular Surgery* Children’s Health and After Hours Care* Hollings Cancer Center
*a part of MUSC Medical Center
muschealth.org
CHARLESTON - HILTON HEAD ISLAND -AMELIA ISLAND STAUGUSTINE - VERO BEACH - DELRAY BEACH FORT LAUDERDALE - NAPLES - KEY WEST
“A summer day on the beach.” - LORI
“Exploring remote beaches and wildlife refuges.” - LANCE
“Sitting on the beach, listening to the ocean waves crash.”
- JEREMY
“Food, lore and the green of it all.” - CHARLES
“The scenic beauty.” - ASHLAN
“Nostalgic food.”
- BAILEY
“The food, of course!”
- ALEA
“All the friends I've made here over the past 27 years.”
- REBECCA
“The slow and calming pace of life here.”
- KENNY
“The year-round sunshine.”
- LISA
“Spring days on the porch with hydrangeas blooming.”
- LEAH
“Great weather and the quality of the people.”
- BRUCE
PUBLISHER
Lori Goodridge-Cribb (Local since 1986) lori.goodridge@wearelocallife.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Lance Hanlin (Local since 2007) lance.hanlin@wearelocallife.com
ART DIRECTOR / DESIGNER
Jeremy Swartz (Local since 2003) jeremy.swartz@wearelocallife.com
DESIGNER
Charles Grace (Local since 1997) charles.grace@wearelocallife.com
AUDIENCE & CONTENT DEVELOPMENT
Ashlan Saeger (Local since 2016) ashlan.saeger@wearelocallife.com
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Bailey Gilliam (Local since 2020) bailey.gilliam@wearelocallife.com
WRITER / CONTENT CREATOR
Alea Wilkins (Local since 2024) alea.wilkins@wearelocallife.com
SALES REPRESENTATIVE
Rebecca Kerns (Local since 1999) rebecca.kerns@wearelocallife.com
DIGITAL ACCOUNT MANAGER
Kenny Brister (Local since 2023) kenny.brister@wearelocallife.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Lisa Staff (Local since 2003) lisa@lisastaffphoto.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS & FINANCE
Leah Ortega (Local in spirit) leah.ortega@wearelocallife.com
DISTRIBUTION & LIST STRATEGIST
Bruce Wolff (Local since 2002) info@wearelocallife.com
Southern Comfort
In May Southern comfort isn’t an idea. It’s something you can taste, feel and live. Inside, we wander from storied Southern mansions to homegrown brands, revisit time-tested remedies and meet locals who keep these traditions alive. You’ll find inspiration for easy living at home, along with spring style, soulful art and a lineup of recipes and cocktails rooted in Lowcountry flavor. Pull up a chair. Supper’s just about ready.
and downright irresistible, skillet-fried
people
in the South. When it’s done right, the crust
and the inside stays tender and juicy. Turn to page 156 for tips and tricks to perfect your next batch, along with a lineup of Southern comfort classics worth gathering around.
Grand escapes
Five luxurious Southern stays, each rich in comfort and story
Steady hand
Meet a local who helped shape Bluffton into what it is today
Open-air soak
Create a relaxing outdoor bath designed for quiet moments
148 26 46 96 136
Comfort makers
Southern brands that turned everyday rituals into lasting icons
Porch palette
Haint blue, warm white and black set an easy Lowcountry tone
Southern scenes
Art that reflects comfort, memory and our easy pace
Comfort in a bowl
Nectar Bluffton’s recipe for rich, creamy shrimp and grits
170
Raise a glass
Southern classics, from juleps to sours, to make at home
FINGER LICKIN' GOOD Golden, crispy
chicken brings
together
crackles,
Betty Anglin Smith Oyster Beds On The Sound
In our comfort zone
May is when the Lowcountry finds its stride and everything feels just right
hHere in the Lowcountry, Southern comfort isn’t something we define. It’s something we live. You feel it in the slow sway of a rocking chair, in conversations that stretch longer than planned, in spaces that feel like they’ve always been yours. It shows up in the details, in what’s cooked, what’s built and how we spend our time. And once you settle into it, it’s hard to imagine living any other way.
It shows up on the plate, too. Shrimp and grits done just right. Biscuits still warm. Lowcountry boils and deviled crab that tastes like someone’s been making it the same way for decades. These recipes don’t live on paper. They live in memory, in instinct, in the hands that know exactly when it’s ready. You see it in our homes as well, in soft palettes, natural textures and spaces that feel layered over time, never overthought.
And in May it all clicks. The breeze finds its rhythm. Jasmine drifts through the air. The Lowcountry settles into that perfect in-between, just past the spring rush and just before summer makes its entrance. It’s the moment when everything we love about living here feels fully within reach.
Unlike many parts of the country, the South has always put comfort and hospitality front and center. Not as a finishing touch, but as the foundation. For many it’s what drew them here in the first place: the promise of a slower pace, a warmer welcome and a way of living that values connection over complication. And once you feel it, it tends to stay with you. Or better yet, it convinces you to stay.
SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE
Don’t miss an issue of LOCAL Life. Scan this QR code to subscribe to the upscale lifestyle magazine of Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort and beyond.
This issue leans into that feeling. From historic Southern mansions where you can spend the night, to the businesses that turned regional traditions into lasting icons, we explore the roots and reach of Southern comfort. We revisit time-tested remedies built on nature and necessity and introduce locals who live it every day, from caterers and tea shop owners to longtime residents who remember when roads were paved with oyster shells.
You’ll also find inspiration for creating your own version of comfort at home, from the perfect porch, to an outdoor bath made for long, unhurried evenings. There’s spring style that moves easily from dock to dinner, art that captures the spirit of the South and a collection of local recipes, techniques and ingredients that define Southern cooking at its most satisfying. And, of course, a few quintessential cocktails to wash it all down. Southern comfort isn’t just a look or a setting. It’s a way of living. And in May there’s no better place to settle into it.
LORI GOODRIDGE-CRIBB PUBLISHER lori.goodridge@wearelocallife.com
TELL US EVERYTHING
Calling all LOCAL Life readers and community members.
We want to hear from you.
Your opinions matter, your insights count, and your feedback helps shape everything we do. A quick five-minute survey on our website (locallifesc.com/ reader-survey) gives you the chance to tell us what you love, what you want more of and where we can do better. Be honest. Be bold. We’re listening. As a thank you, you can choose to enter your email address for a chance to win a $200 restaurant gift card. Scan the QR code to get started
CATCH THE BREEZE
Skip the summer traffic to Coligny, and ride instead. The fare-free Breeze Trolley runs through September 7, with daily service from 1 to 10 p.m. and until 11 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Two easy routes connect Shelter Cove Towne Centre, Coligny Beach Park and The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, with convenient stops along the way. Learn more at palmettobreezetransit.com.
ON THE MOVE Have you seen the LOCAL Life Jeep cruising around town? This month we rolled up next to Steve Castner of Lowcountry Transportation, a go-to black car service that knows the Lowcountry inside and out, from airport runs to wherever the road takes you.
EASY DOES IT Lori GoodridgeCribb settles into the season at Point Comfort, where the water is calm, the pace slows and Southern comfort comes naturally.
contributors
MEET LOCAL CREATIVES BEHIND THE SCENES
Jennifer Kenwell Mahjong instructor
FUN FACT: Owner of Pink Palmetto Events FOR THIS ISSUE: Mahjong mastery HOMETOWN: Forest Hills, N.Y. CURRENT HOME: Old Town Bluffton WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY? Salty air, a slower pace, the marsh, mossy live oaks and, most of all, community. WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT YOUR HOMETOWN? The 12-minute train ride to NYC and some of the best museums in the world. FAVORITE LOCAL
PLACES: Downtown Deli, Origins Coffee, CQ’s, FARM, Hush HOBBIES: Mahjong, golf, needlepoint, bike riding and boating CURRENT OBSESSION: This better be obvious... mahjong! HOW DID YOU FIRST FALL IN LOVE WITH MAHJONG? Mahjong introduced me to my community. Having moved here from Palm Beach and not really knowing anyone, it’s where I made lifelong friendships and quickly realized it was about so much more than a game. It gave me the sweetest sense of belonging. Before I knew it, I had found my people, and Bluffton truly felt like home. WHAT SEPARATES A GOOD PLAYER FROM A GREAT ONE? A comprehensive understanding of the NMJL card and speed WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT MAY? May in the Lowcountry feels magical. The weather is warm but not too hot, and everything is in bloom. Longer days, dinners outside, boat rides and that feeling that summer is just getting started.
Valerie Mathijsen-Palay Artist
FUN FACTS: Certified life coach, honorary Key West Conch and dual citizen (Dutch/American). Speaks five languages. Former elected councilwoman in France, CEO of a furniture company, PR consultant and fashion model. Trekked above 17,000 feet on Mt. Vinicunca. FOR THIS ISSUE: Local art, Girl On a Bicycle HOMETOWN: Brussels, Belgium CURRENT HOME: Hilton Head Island WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY? The stunning landscapes, glorious sunsets and Southern hospitality that seems to welcome everyone who lands here. WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT YOUR HOMETOWN? The chocolate, French fries with mayonnaise and wandering cobblestone streets. Not the weather. FAVORITE LOCAL PLACES: The beaches, breakfast at Social Bakery, lunch at Jane’s or Delisheeyo and Red Fish on Wednesdays. GUILTY PLEASURE: Dark chocolate with sea salt, fresh-cut flowers and long phone calls with girlfriends near and far. WHAT INSPIRES YOUR ART? Life, both inner and outer, where reality, memory, emotion and information come together by reassembling pieces of paper to create something new. ADVICE FOR ASPIRING ARTISTS: Everyone has an artist within. Ignore the inner critic. Perfection doesn’t exist. Follow your heart, explore, and have fun. Creativity is both inspiring and therapeutic.
FOR THIS ISSUE: Parting shot
HOMETOWN: Columbiana, Ohio CURRENT HOME: Lady’s Island WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY? The beauty of nature and never having trouble finding a peaceful place to photograph.
FAVORITE LOCAL PLACES: Cypress Wetlands, Crystal Lake, White Hall Plantation HOBBIES: Photography, journaling, hiking and camping WHAT ARE YOU EATING? A Beedos burger WHAT ARE YOU DRINKING? Water WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO? “Shake It Off” WHAT ARE YOU READING? The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE RECEIVED: Do not let anyone tell you your feelings aren’t valid. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE SOUTH? The weather, maybe the beaches or the sunsets. There is so much to love about the South. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT MAY? It’s honestly my favorite month of the year. The flowers are blooming, the temperature is perfect, and the birds are coming back out. WORDS TO LIVE BY: From every wound there is a scar, and every scar tells a story. A story that says, "I survived."
Others who leaned into the art of Southern comfort …
PHOTOGRAPHERS Alan Biggs + Kelli Boyd + Jean-Marie Côté + Arno Dimmling + Peter Frank Edwards
Rebecca Lehde + Amy Lesesne + Amia Marcell + Jeanne Paddison + Daniel Quat + Molly Rose
Lowcountry Wedding: Planning a local wedding? Our guide has everything you need. Explore the digital issue, browse top local vendors, or request a complimentary copy at weddings.locallifesc.com
1 Discover the area’s most untouched outdoor adventures
2 How kayaking Broad Creek differs at high and low tides
3
The truth about our most misunderstood predators
Rethinking how we teach
Scan this QR code to learn how the Beaufort County School District is reimagining education through its new Changemakers program, a grantfunded initiative that blends traditional academics with innovative, student-centered learning.
About the cover
Some places just know how to slow you down. This Moreland Point porch in Palmetto Bluff does just that, where a Cavalier King Charles spaniel has found the perfect spot, ready for what many locals consider the best month of the year: May. It’s a season made for being outside, but just as perfect for settling into a shaded porch and letting the day unfold at its own pace. Photographed by Kelli Boyd of Kelli Boyd Photography (see more at kelliboydphotography. com), the home was completed in 2023 by Court Atkins Group (architecture), Grier Development & Construction (builder) and Kelly Caron Designs (interior design).
With a proven track record of selling homes quickly and achieving top-dollar results, the Drake Real Estate Team has helped countless clients like you achieve their real estate goals. Our personalized approach and deep knowledge of the local market ensure every selling experience is a positive one.
WORD ON THE STREET + COMMUNITY TIDBITS + FAST FACTS + LOCAL LANDMARKS
Grand stays, Southern ways
FIVE UNFORGETTABLE MANSIONS AND INNS WHERE COMFORT COMES WITH A STORY
tSTORY BY LANCE HANLIN
There’s Southern comfort, and then there’s Southern comfort done just right. The kind that doesn’t need to announce itself. It shows up in the details, in the welcome, in the way a place makes you feel like you’ve been there before, even if it’s your first visit. For locals the beauty of these grand stays lies not just in their elegance but in how easy they are to reach. Each of these storied mansions, bed-and-breakfasts and inns sits within a comfortable drive of Hilton Head Island, close enough for a spontaneous escape, yet far enough to feel like you’ve truly gotten away. And May is the moment to go. The weather finds its sweet spot, the crowds thin out, and everything seems to move at a more forgiving pace. Here are five of the region’s most luxurious and distinctive stays, each offering its own take on comfort, character and charm.
Untamed elegance GREYFIELD INN, CUMBERLAND ISLAND
If Southern comfort ever wandered off the porch and into the wild, it would land here. Tucked deep within Cumberland Island and reachable only by ferry, Greyfield Inn is the island’s lone outpost of hospitality, where untamed nature and old-world refinement exist in perfect balance. Built by the Carnegie family in 1890, the inn still carries itself with quiet confidence. Historic furnishings, gracious rooms and wide porches remain true to their roots, offering a glimpse of a more deliberate way of living. Time does not stop here, but it certainly slows. Mornings arrive with the distant rhythm of the Atlantic and the occasional sight of wild horses moving through the grounds. Afternoons invite exploration, whether that means biking beneath cathedral-like maritime forests or wandering stretches of beach that feel wonderfully untouched. By evening, the dinner bell rings, gathering guests for a communal meal that feels less like a restaurant and more like a house party you somehow found your way into. With breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks included, along with a serve-yourself bar, cozy library and breezy veranda, the Greyfield Inn delivers a rare balance of elevated and effortless. It is refined without pretense, indulgent without excess and perfectly at home in its remote surroundings.
Best room: The Master Suite offers a true taste of the Carnegie life. Spacious yet inviting, it blends heirloom character with soft coastal light. A mahogany king bed anchors the space, while window seats and a private sitting room encourage relaxation. A working fireplace adds a final layer of comfort, making it equal parts grand retreat and quiet hideaway.
May rates: From $1,350 per night with a two-night minimum. All-inclusive, covering meals, activities, recreation and ferry transportation.
Drive time: 2 hours, 15 minutes (146 miles) from Hilton Head Island to St. Marys, Georgia, plus a 45-minute ferry to Cumberland Island.
If Southern comfort had a front-row seat, it would be here. Set along Beaufort’s historic waterfront, Anchorage 1770 pairs Lowcountry charm with centuries of layered history, all framed by sweeping views of the Beaufort River. Originally built in the late 18th century and recognized as the oldest and largest tabby structure still in use in Beaufort, the home has lived many lives. It has hosted dignitaries, survived war and weathered the shifting tides of the South, emerging each time with its character intact. Today, that history lingers in the details, from original mantels and heart pine floors to craftsmanship you simply cannot recreate. Life here unfolds at porch pace. More than 1,500 square feet of waterfront porches invite you to settle in, whether that means a quiet morning with coffee or an evening glass of wine as the river slips by. Inside, each room offers its own personality, with four-poster beds, tall ceilings, bay windows and carefully preserved period details. Step outside, and Beaufort itself becomes part of the experience, with walkable streets, historic homes and a story waiting around every corner. Best room: Room 403 delivers one of the best views in the Lowcountry. Perched on the top floor and just steps from the inn’s rooftop deck, it pairs a four-poster king bed with soft natural light and a cozy sitting area anchored by an Adams mantel fireplace. The European-style bath adds a modern touch without taking away from the room’s historic charm. May rates: From $351 per night.
Drive time: 1 hour (40 miles) from Hilton Head Island
Ironclad charm KEHOE HOUSE, SAVANNAH
If Southern comfort had a city address, it would be here. Set on a quiet square in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, Kehoe House blends old-world craftsmanship with hospitality that feels personal from the moment you arrive. Built in 1892 by iron magnate William Kehoe, the home wears its history proudly. Ornate cast-iron details frame the exterior, a lasting signature of the foundry that built both the house and its legacy. Inside, the scale shifts to something more intimate. With just 13 guest rooms, the experience feels less like a hotel and more like being welcomed into a well-appointed private home. Mornings begin with the aroma of a made-to-order Southern breakfast, served wherever the mood strikes, from the formal double parlor to a shaded veranda or the quiet privacy of your room. Afternoons are made for wandering, with Savannah’s cobblestone streets, boutiques and historic landmarks just steps away. As evening settles in, guests gather for wine and hors d’oeuvres, an easy, unhurried ritual that sets the tone for a night in the city. Kehoe House moves at a distinctly Savannah pace. Refined but never rigid, social when you want it to be and quietly tucked away when you do not.
Best room: Room 205, the Johnny Mercer Private Balcony King, captures the spirit of the house. Named for Savannah’s legendary songwriter, it pairs classic elegance with a private balcony overlooking moss-draped streets. High ceilings, soft light and a king bed create a comfortable retreat, while the balcony offers a front-row seat to the city’s slow, steady rhythm.
May rates: From $539 per night with a two-night minimum. Includes breakfast and evening wine and hors d’oeuvres. Drive time: 45 minutes (35 miles) from Hilton Head Island
Equestrian escape THE WILLCOX, AIKEN
If Southern comfort ever took to the saddle, it would land here. In Aiken, where horse culture runs as deep as tradition, The Willcox blends grand hotel elegance with an easy, sporting spirit that feels both refined and refreshingly relaxed. Built in the late 19th century as a winter retreat for wealthy Northerners, the hotel quickly became the center of Aiken’s social season. This was the era of the “Winter Colony,” when days were filled with polo matches, afternoon golf and long rides through Hitchcock Woods, followed by evenings of candlelit dinners and ballroom dances. That sense of ritual still lingers, not in formality, but in the way the experience unfolds. Today The Willcox feels as much like a gathering place as it does a hotel. Guests drift from breakfast to the veranda, from quiet afternoons exploring the nearby horse district, to evenings shaped by exceptional dining and warm, attentive service. Small touches, from turn-down service with a sweet treat to the option of a cashmere-wrapped hot water bottle, add a layer of comfort that feels thoughtful rather than overdone. There is history here, but it never feels heavy. Instead, it moves at its own pace, grounded in tradition, shaped by sport and softened by hospitality that makes it easy to settle in.
Best room: The Roosevelt Suite delivers a stay that feels quietly presidential. Spacious and inviting, it features two fireplaces, a soaking tub and refined furnishings that balance comfort with elegance. The expansive balcony is perfect for morning coffee or a slow evening under the stars. It is a space designed for settling in and staying.
May rates: From $525 per night. Includes a cooked-to-order breakfast for two. Drive time: 3 hours (160 miles) from Hilton Head Island
Southern splendor WENTWORTH MANSION, CHARLESTON
If Southern comfort ever dressed for the evening, it would look like this. Rising above Charleston’s historic district, Wentworth Mansion delivers a more opulent take on Lowcountry living, where every detail leans toward the grand without losing its sense of warmth. Built in the late 19th century, the mansion reflects a time when craftsmanship was meant to impress. Italian crystal chandeliers catch the light overhead, hand-carved marble fireplaces anchor the rooms, and original stained glass adds layers of character you simply cannot replicate. Yet for all its scale and elegance, the experience remains personal. With just 21 rooms and suites, service feels attentive without ever becoming intrusive. Mornings begin with a full breakfast at Circa 1886, setting the tone for a day spent exploring Charleston’s most iconic streets, shops and restaurants, all just minutes away. Afternoons ease into wine and hors d’oeuvres, while evenings close with a quiet nightcap of port, sherry or brandy. The rooftop cupola offers sweeping views of the Holy City.
Best room: The Grand Mansion Suite is where the property truly shows off. This expansive two-room retreat pairs soaring ceilings with two marble fireplaces, original Italian chandeliers and Tiffany stained glass. A king bed anchors the space, while a soaking tub and separate sitting area create a stay that feels indulgent yet inviting. It is the kind of room you plan your day around. May rates: From $1,275 per night. Includes breakfast, afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres and evening cordials.
Drive time: 2 hours (100 miles) from Hilton Head Island
MORE UNIQUE PLACES TO CHECK IN AND SETTLE DOWN
Ballastone Inn, Savannah: Moody, romantic and rich in detail, this design-forward stay leans into Savannah’s darker charm with velvet textures, deep colors and a sense of drama that feels worlds away from the typical Southern inn.
The Gastonian, Savannah: A pair of stately mansions turned boutique retreat, known for its intimate atmosphere, polished interiors and thoughtful touches that make every stay feel like an occasion.
Cuthbert House Inn, Beaufort: Set along the Beaufort River, this waterfront classic delivers front-porch views, sea breezes and the kind of easygoing elegance that defines Lowcountry living.
Rhett House Inn, Beaufort: More residential in feel, this historic stay offers quiet courtyards, shaded porches and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to settle in and feel like a local.
Governor’s House Inn, Charleston: One of the city’s oldest homes, this understated retreat trades grandeur for authenticity, with antique-filled rooms and a lived-in charm that feels connected to Charleston’s past.
Old Town Bluffton Inn, Bluffton: A newer boutique stay with a strong sense of Southern style, just steps from Bluffton’s shops, galleries and restaurants. It is close to home, yet just far enough away to feel like a getaway.
From stunning gemstones and luxury timepieces to aweinspiring art across multiple mediums, Kessler Fine Jewelry showcases unique designs and exceptional craftsmanship that cater to discerning tastes.
Relax and sip
Coravin Wine-by-the-glass System
One glass tonight, the rest next weekend. Coravin’s clever system lets you pour without pulling the cork, preserving what’s left with a touch of argon gas. It’s the kind of low-pressure luxury that makes every bottle feel like it’s in no hurry. coravin.com. $379
Blueair
Breathe in
Blue Signature Air Purifier
Clean air, quietly done. This purifier captures 99.97% of airborne particles while staying hushed enough for conversation or sleep. Wrapped in Scandinavian good looks, it doubles as a side table and automatically adjusts to your home’s air quality. Fresh, functional and easy on the eyes. blueair.com. $450
The sound of comfort
Dyson OnTrac Headphones
Think first-class comfort for your ears. With eight microphones canceling up to 40 dB of noise and a battery that goes the distance, these headphones deliver rich, immersive sound without distraction. Balanced weight and soft microfiber cushions make them an all-day companion, from morning coffee to evening unwind. dyson.com. $250
hot tech
Smart upgrades for slower days, sweeter sips and Southern-style comfort at home
SELECTIONS BY BELLE WHITFIELD
Enjoy the sensation
Woojer Haptic Wellness Mat
Tea time
Breville One-Touch Tea Maker
This is what happens when sound gets personal. The Woojer mat turns music into a full-body experience, sending deep, calming vibrations through six precision transducers. It’s part spa, part sound system and entirely indulgent. Roll it out, press play and let the day melt away. woojermat.com. $999
In the South, iced tea is less a beverage and more a birthright. This sleek glass kettle handles the details, dialing in the perfect temperature for everything from delicate greens to bold blacks. Its near-silent magnetic basket lowers and lifts on cue, so oversteeping is never part of the story. Set it, forget it, and get back to the porch. williams-sonoma.com. $330
Get some ZZZs
Nitetronic Anti-Snore Pillow
Sleep smarter, not harder. This AI-powered pillow detects snoring and quietly adjusts to keep airways open, all without waking you. With cooling memory foam and detailed sleep tracking, it turns restless nights into something far more restorative. nitetronic.com. $350
Swing time
Purpleleaf Double Cloud Hanging Chair
Porch goals, achieved. This cloud-like swing pairs a sturdy steel frame with
handwoven rattan and a cushion that invites you to stay awhile. Morning coffee, afternoon breeze or sunset cocktail, it’s built for all three. purpleleafshop.com. $519
Lowcountry calm
Relaxe Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair
After a long day, this is where you land. AI body scanning customizes every session, while zerogravity positioning takes the pressure off your spine. Add heat, compression and deep-tissue rollers, and you’ve got a full-body reset that feels equal parts science and Southern hospitality. relaxe.co. $2,999
Lights on
Oasis Adaptive Ambient Lighting
Good lighting knows what time it is. These wallwashing lights shift from bright and energizing in the morning to warm and relaxed by evening, all controlled from a simple app. No hub, no hassle, just a home that feels right at every hour. heyoasis.com. $160
Seated front row: Brian Neumann NMLS# 174105, David Crowell NMLS# 12620, Aaron Benton NMLS# 1717095, and Jason Goldstein NMLS# 2180858. Standing back row: Tricia Lowman NMLS# 2440257, Sara Marx, Libby Knapp, Alan Perry NMLS# 866734, Kim Capin NMLS# 158295, Adam Crowell NMLS# 165047, Clara Good NMLS# 2169516, Tanner Ware NMLS# 278238, and Gina Cavano NMLS# 1182146. Not pictured: Susan Smith NMLS# 278903
TECH IT EASY
Comfort, upgraded
Easy tech tools that make home life smoother, slower and a little more Southern
STORY BY LANCE HANLIN
In the South, comfort is not complicated. A few smart tools simply make it easier to create and even easier to enjoy. Whether you are hosting, cooking, relaxing or trying to keep the house cool without a wrestling match with the thermostat, this month’s tech suggestions add a touch of modern ease to classic Southern living.
i
EIGHT iPhone tricks for a smoother day at home
1. Tap the back, get things done. Turn your phone into its own shortcut button. Go to Settings → Accessibility → Touch → Back Tap, then assign a Double or Triple Tap to actions like turning on lights, starting music or opening your go-to recipe app. It feels a little like magic the first time you tap your phone and the porch lights come on.
2. Create a “Porch Mode” because not every notification deserves a seat on your porch. In Settings → Focus, create a custom mode that silences work alerts, unknown callers and other noise while letting calls from family and friends through. Turn it on from Control Center when the day winds down and the only thing buzzing should be cicadas.
3. Snap and save recipes. No more flour-covered page flipping or trying to remember which page you dog-eared. Open your Camera and take a photo of the recipe. Then open the image in Photos, and tap the Live Text icon (it looks like a small box with lines). Highlight the text you want, tap Copy, and paste it into Notes. It works on handwritten cards, cookbooks and even this very magazine you hold in your hands.
4. Name your timers. Give your timers a little context. Ask Siri to “Set a 10-minute timer for cornbread,” and your phone will tell you exactly what’s ready, not just that something is. It’s a lifesaver when the oven’s full, something’s simmering and you’ve stepped outside “just for a minute.” It also works for everyday moments like reminding you to switch the laundry before it sits overnight, or check on something on the grill before it goes from perfect to … memorable.
5. Scan it, skip the stack. Paper piles have met their match. In Notes, tap the camera icon, and choose Scan Documents to save warranties, recipes and lists in one tidy place. No more digging through that one drawer everyone pretends is organized.
6. Soften the screen. A gentler glow for the end of the day. Head to Settings → Accessibility → Display & Text Size, then turn on Reduce White Point to take the edge off bright screens at night. Your eyes will thank you when you’re checking one last thing before bed.
7. Identify what’s blooming. Put a name to that mystery plant your neighbor swears is “easy to grow.” Snap a photo, open it in Photos, and tap the info (i) icon at the bottom to use Look Up. It works best for plants and flowers but can also help identify birds, insects and some animals. Think of it as a handy starting point, not a field guide.
8. Share Wi-Fi in seconds. No passwords, no guesswork. Have your guest select your network, then hold your unlocked iPhone nearby and tap Share Password when prompted. No more hunting for that sticky note on the fridge that disappeared two months ago or trying to remember if the “O” is a letter or a zero.
Get started fast:
ONE must-have app
Let Paprika Recipe Manager organize your kitchen. If your recipes are scattered across screenshots, cookbooks and memory, Paprika pulls everything into one clean, searchable place. Think of it as a recipe box that never overflows
• Open the built-in browser and tap Download to save recipes from websites
• Tap + Add Recipe to enter your own, or paste from screenshots
• Use Scale to adjust servings instantly
• Send ingredients to Groceries for a ready-made shopping list
• Plan your week in Menu so dinner is already decided
FIVE ways to bring smart comfort home
1. Let your thermostat do the thinking. Smart thermostats like Google Nest Learning Thermostat or ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium learn your routine and adjust temperatures automatically. Pair with remote sensors for bedrooms or sunrooms so every corner stays comfortable, not just the hallway.
2. Light the room without leaving your seat. Swap in Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Bulbs or budget-friendly Wyze Bulb Color to dim lights, warm the tone or set a soft “sunset glow.” Add a smart dimmer switch for guests who still reach for the wall.
3. Upgrade your porch sound. A portable speaker like Bose SoundLink Flex or Sonos Roam 2 delivers rich, balanced sound without overpowering conversation. Look for water resistance and long battery life so it can handle Lowcountry humidity and late nights.
4. Keep an eye on things, quietly. Doorbell cams such as Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 or Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell let you monitor deliveries and visitors from anywhere. Add a small outdoor camera for the driveway or backyard for an extra layer of ease.
5. Automate your morning coffee. Turn any coffee maker into a ritual with a smart plug like Kasa Smart Plug Mini. Or upgrade to a connected brewer like Hamilton Beach Smart Coffee Maker. Set it the night before, and wake up to the smell already in the air. That is Southern comfort at its finest.
Five Southern reads perfect for porch season Comfort, cover to cover
Denise Friday, a social worker at Hilton Head Island Elementary School and mother of twins, finds both escape and reflection in a good book. Her May selections capture the spirit of Southern comfort, weaving together stories of family, place and the moments that shape us.
SOUTH OF SOMEWHERE BY T.I. LOWE
Junie Wilder has found herself in a hole of despair after a grief-filled addiction and a DUI cause her to lose custody of her daughter, Fern. She heads to Sullivan’s Island to attempt to turn her life around. It’s a long road to prove to her brother that she deserves to have Fern returned to her and to forgive herself for the mistakes she has made. Along the way she finds a wonderful support group of friends and neighbors who keep her accountable. Junie learns to give herself grace, even when her ugly past threatens everything. A tough but touching story of redemption and acceptance.
WHERE THE RIVERS MERGE BY MARY ALICE MONROE
In 1908 Mayfield is the bucolic Lowcountry estate for carefree Eliza, who spends her days riding and exploring the wildlife of South Carolina. As she grows, many things threaten that lifestyle, including the Great War. In 1988 Eliza has become the family matriarch and has spent her life fighting for her legacy and the land of Mayfield. This multi-generational saga explores sacrifice and family drama as Eliza searches, at the end of her years, for a way to save her beloved home and preserve it for future generations.
MY SOUTHERN JOURNEY: TRUE STORIES FROM THE HEART OF THE SOUTH BY RICK
BRAGG
A large collection of essays drawn from the author’s experiences growing up in the South. Many were published over the years in Southern Living magazine, while others were written specifically for this book. I highly suggest listening to this on audio, if possible. The author reads it in his slow, deliberate, deadpan cadence, and it is delightful. There are stereotypes that endure for a reason, and Bragg addresses them with humor and love. Fishing, football, cooking and family. It’s all here.
THE LAST CAROLINA GIRL BY MEAGAN CHURCH
The Eugenics Board of North Carolina was formed in July 1933 by the state legislature, focusing on sterilizations for inmates or patients of publicly funded institutions who were judged by authorities to be “mentally defective or feeble-minded.” Black people were disproportionately targeted. Fourteen-year-old Leah Payne had a lovely life in a coastal town until her lumberjack father was killed in an accident. She is sent to live with strangers who treat her as an indentured servant, and she must fight to retain control of her own body. A powerful work of historical fiction.
SLIGHTLY SOUTH OF SIMPLE BY KRISTY WOODSON HARVEY
The first in a series about three sisters and their mother in a small Southern town. Mom Ansley is getting back on her feet with her design business after her late husband left her nearly penniless. Then the daughters return. Caroline and her 9-year-old daughter flee New York after her marriage falls apart. Sloane arrives while her husband is serving overseas, and youngest daughter Emerson jumps onboard, all coming home to Mama. Is this heaven for Ansley, or will her past split the family for good?
Chapter chat
LOCAL Life’s Rebecca Kerns shares her take on “Mad Honey” by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan in her video book review series, Rebecca’s Reading Room Chat. It’s a suspenseful story of love, secrets and a mother questioning what she truly knows after tragedy strikes.. Watch the review on LOCAL Life’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/@locallifesc
ACROSS
1. Iconic Southern fruit coming into season
2. Early May zodiac sign, and a retired Ford model
4. A major spring event, also known as the Bluffton Village Festival
6. Unit of distance used in horse racing
7. High-energy acoustic music with Appalachian roots
8. Fluffy Southern staple best served warm with butter or gravy
11. Fruit dessert topped with a golden crust
13. Buttery pecan sweets with New Orleans roots
15. First name of the stadium hosting the French Open
16. An island near Beaufort, commonly known as Monkey Island
DOWN
1. South Carolina island famous for making Marines
3. Historic Bluffton farmhouse museum dating to 1841
4. Federal holiday in May for mourning lost military personnel
5. May birthstone known for its rich green hue
7. Famous track nickname for Indianapolis Motor Speedway
9. Honored on the second Sunday in May
10. Preserving summer harvests for year-round enjoyment
12. Colorful racing attire worn by jockeys
13. Area where horses are viewed before the race
14. What many Southerners call the evening meal
CLUES BY LANCE HANLIN + GRID BY JEREMY SWARTZ
Official Mensa®Challenge
THINK YOU'RE SMART?
Put your knowledge to the test and solve this Mensa quiz.
1. Following the logic in first three triangles, fill in the missing number in the fourth triangle.
2. Five words starting with JUN are defined in the list below. Can you fill in all five?
1) The second of the same name ___________
2) A type of boat ___________
3) An overgrown tropical area ___________
4) A promotional trip ___________
5) A point in time ___________
3. What two words, formed from different arrangement of the same seven letters, can be used to complete the sentence below?
Every actress ______ to see her ______ sung by reviewers in the newspaper.
4. A simple substitution code has been used to conceal a "quote." Work out the code to decipher the original words.
5. Find the five-digit number in which the second and fourth digits are the same, the third digit is the sum of the first and second, the fifth digit is the sum of the third and fourth and the third digit is one more than the first and one less than the fifth. The sum off all the digits is 14.
ANSWER KEY
48 (Add the three exterior numbers and double the sum.) 2. JUNIOR, JUNK, JUNGLE, JUNKET, JUNCTURE 3. aspires, praises 4. We really should have practiced mountain climbing before we started out. (Code: A = Z; B = A , C = B, etc.) 5. 31,415
Mahjong mastery
Get ready to use the 2026 card. The 2026 card is very exciting, but many say it is more complex than the 2025 card, and it certainly has some interesting lines. You’re looking at your first hand in the Charleston and must pass three tiles. Which tiles would you choose and why using the 2026 card?
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Our picks: 1 Crak, 3 Dot and the Soap
What would you do? This suggested pass might surprise you. For a closer look at the strategy behind this pass, watch Mahjong instructor Jennifer Kenwell of @PinkPalmettoMahjong break it down on our website (locallifesc.com) or on LOCAL Life’s YouTube channel (@locallifesc).
STREAMING
MOVIE THEATERS
The hot list
What to watch, read and listen to in May
SELECTIONS BY DAISY DOW
NETFLIX Lord of the Flies (drama) Following a plane crash, a group of school-aged boys find themselves stranded on a remote island. There are no adults, no obvious sources of food and no sign that anyone is coming to save them. Two of the boys, Ralph (Winston Sawyers) and Piggy (David McKenna), try their best to do what they think adults might do in the situation: remain civil and try to find help. Some of the other boys, egged on by Jack (Lox Pratt), lean into something primal and savage within themselves. Release date: May 4
HBO Song of the Samurai (action) The ties of brotherhood among the Shinsengumi samurai are incredibly strong. Based on the manga series Chiruran: Shinsengumi Requiem, this show takes place near the end of the Edo period, when Japanese culture had been refined during a time of relative peace. While things were calm on a political scale, the samurai still trained and prepared for war. Often, the greatest conflicts were among themselves. Release date: May 9
APPLE TV+ Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed (comedy) Paula (Tatiana Maslany) knows her life is not what she hoped it would be. She is divorced, her ex is trying to gain custody of her daughter, and her career is taking a sharp nosedive. She also believes she witnessed a crime, offering her a chance to be the hero for once. Paula takes action to uncover the truth, but like the rest of her life, her best intentions lead her into a tangled mess. Release date: May 20
NBC, PEACOCK The 152nd Kentucky Derby (horse racing) The fastest two minutes in sports returns with pageantry, tradition and plenty of Southern flair. From the iconic garland of roses to the thunder of hooves at Churchill Downs, the Derby pairs high-stakes racing with all the spectacle you’d expect from the South’s biggest show. Post time: 6:57 p.m., May 2
The Devil Wears Prada 2 (dark comedy) The tables have turned in the twenty years since Andrea Sachs (Anne Hathaway) first fumbled her way through the halls of Runway magazine. Andy has found her niche as a digital features editor, and the once-formidable Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) has lost some of her power with the decline of print. The industry may be crumbling, but Andy, Miranda, Emily (Emily Blunt) and Nigel (Stanley Tucci) cross paths again, navigating a new era of shifting power dynamics. Release date: May 1
Deep Water (thriller) A passenger plane experiences a mid-flight emergency, leading to engine failure and a dramatic crash in the Pacific Ocean. Only some of the civilians and crew on the routine flight from California to China survive the initial impact. As bodies fill the water, sharks begin to circle, and those who remain must fight for their lives. Release date: May 1
In the Grey (action) When more than a billion dollars is stolen, there are two options: hope it is returned or send someone to get it back. Bronco (Jake Gyllenhaal), Sid (Henry Cavill) and Sophia (Eiza González) are known in select circles as the go-to team for recovering stolen funds. The trio embarks on a mission to reclaim the money and prove they have better intelligence, tactics and manpower than those who took it. Release date: May 15
BOOKS & NOVELS
Glyph: A Novel By Ali Smith (fiction) Petra and Patch were as close as sisters growing up, letting their imaginations run wild together. After hearing a disturbing story as children, they created a ghost to make the horrors of history easier to understand. The two grow apart in adulthood, but when a phantom horse begins to terrorize Petra, they reconnect. A shadow looms, raising questions about the role of history and how neglecting it creates ghosts for the next generation. Release date: May 19
The Land and Its People: Essays By David Sedaris (nonfiction) Author and comedian David Sedaris has built a career reflecting on his surroundings. In this collection of essays recounting his travels, Sedaris explores cultures and characters that deepen his understanding of himself and what he values most. Told through his signature humor, these stories bring distant corners of the world into sharp focus. Release date: May 26
John of John By Douglas Stuart (fiction) From the author of Shuggie Bain comes a suspenseful human story about identity, memory and the ties that shape us. Set against a working-class backdrop, it follows a man reckoning with the weight of his past and the expectations that have defined him. As he searches for a sense of self beyond inherited roles, Stuart delivers a raw, intimate portrait of resilience, masculinity and belonging, told with the lyrical precision that made his debut a literary standout. Release date: May 5
ALBUMS
The Boys of
By Paul McCartney (pop) Release date: May 29
Sandbox By All-American Rejects (rock) Release date: May 15
Cinematic By Josh Groban (soundtracks) Release date: May 8
Everyone for Ten Minutes By The Beachers (rock) Release date: May 22
PODCASTS
Sidedoor Subject: History
The
Distractible Subject: Comedy
Podcast Subject: Health Walter Edgar’s Journal Subject: Culture and history
TRAVEL
Mel Robbins
Dungeon Lane
Puerto Natales, Chile Visit the Milodón Cave in the off-season.
Positano, Italy Soak up the sun along the Amalfi Coast.
One knock means everything Community in action
A DAILY DELIVERY HELPS MAKE INDEPENDENT LIVING POSSIBLE AT 105
STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM + PHOTOS BY BELLE WHITFIELD
a
At 105 years old, Mary Renner has lived a life full of love, loss, creativity and independence. For more than two decades she has called the Lowcountry home, much of that time on her own, following her husband’s death. Independence has always mattered to her. At 105, though, even the simplest routines can start to feel like obstacles. Cooking was one of them. At a routine doctor’s appointment, when asked if anything had become difficult, Mary didn’t hesitate. Groceries were not the issue. It was the act of preparing a hot meal.
“It’s a hard thing to make dinner,” she says. “I’m so afraid of using the oven and dropping things.”
Soon after, Meals on Wheels became part of her daily rhythm.
“It’s a wonderful organization,” she says with a smile. “I can’t say enough about it.”
More than a meal
Five days a week, there’s a knock at Mary’s door. On the other side is a hot meal and something just as nourishing.
“Who wouldn’t like to have some cheery person come and say, ‘Good morning, how are you feeling today?’” she says. “And hand you a prepared, tasty meal?”
The visit is brief but meaningful. A check-in. A conversation. A familiar face. Across the Lowcountry, Meals on Wheels delivers that same moment to hundreds of residents, providing balanced meals designed specifically for seniors. For Mary, it is not just helpful. It is enjoyable.
“The chicken is always so tender,” she says. “I don’t know what they do to it, but it really is… I can’t believe how good it is.”
And then there are the vegetables.
“I never ate so many vegetables,” she says, laughing. “And I find myself thinking, ‘That tastes pretty good!’”
Meals are thoughtfully prepared to support senior health with balanced portions and heart-healthy ingredients, but always with flavor in mind. Even picky eaters come around. More importantly, the program allows people like Mary to stay where they
want to be — at home. Independent. Connected. Some days she saves half her meal for later. Some days she finishes every bite. Either way, the worry is gone. No planning. No cooking. No stress. Just a knock and everything she needs.
Time well spent
Mary’s independence is also supported by family. Her daughter-in-law, who lives about half an hour away, helps with groceries and day-to-day needs.
“She is wonderful,” Mary says. “Whatever I need, she helps me with.”
Her other children live out of state, which makes that nearby support even more meaningful. Together with Meals on Wheels, it creates a balance that allows Mary to live safely, comfortably and on her own terms. Step inside her home, and you see a life shaped by creativity. She has sewn her own clothes, crafted baskets and made cards by hand. She once tailored a sport coat for her husband, a project that required patience, precision and skill.
“I’m a crafty person,” she says. “I made a coat for myself once, and my mother liked it so much, I had to make her one, too.”
These days, life has slowed, but the curiosity remains. She listens to audio books, works on small projects, enjoys her favorite sweets and reflects on a century’s worth of memories. Ask her the secret to 105, and she does not offer advice or a grand philosophy — just a quiet smile. For Mary, longevity is not something to explain. It is something she has lived, one day at a time. And now, five days a week, it comes with a knock on the door.
Take action
Meals on Wheels Bluffton-Hilton Head provides nutritious meals and meaningful connections to seniors and homebound individuals throughout the Lowcountry. Volunteers deliver meals, check in on recipients and help ensure neighbors can live safely and independently at home. To support Meals on Wheels through volunteering or donations, visit mowblufftonhiltonhead.org LL
A CENTURY AND COUNTING
At 105, Sun City resident Mary Renner continues to live life on her own terms, with a little help and a lot of heart.
SPECIAL DELIVERY Renner receives Meals on Wheels five days a week, bringing not only nutritious meals but also a friendly face to her door.
1: characterized by or relating to position in space: having a definite spatial form or location 2: of, relating to, or characteristic of a particular place: not general or widespread: of, relating to, or applicable to part of a whole 3: primarily serving the needs of a particular limited district of a public conveyance: making all the stops on a route
Barre as you are
Alyssa Petro blends Southern hospitality and movement to create a welcoming wellness community
STORY BY BECCA EDWARDS
STRONG BODIES, STRONGER BONDS
lLocal since the early 1990s, Alyssa Petro and her family infuse Southern hospitality into all aspects of their lives, from fitness to friendships to owning a small business. “I’m a Southern transplant. I moved here in the sixth grade, and from then on I have spent most of my time outside,” Petro said. “The Lowcountry lends itself to being outdoors, whether you’re biking, walking on the beach or hanging out by the pool. This area also lends itself to being gracious and welcoming. Our family is all about being active and being kind.”
To Petro, true wellness is a mind, body and spirit connection that begins the moment someone walks through the front door of her studio, The Yoga & Pilates Co-Op. “At the beginning of each class, everyone says their name so visitors to our island are met with as much enthusiasm and gratitude as our locals.”
Q: Can you tell us more about your welcoming approach to health and movement? A: I developed a
barre-Pilates fusion class called Barre As You Are. It is a play on “come as you are,” a traditional sentiment for social gatherings. People can be intimidated by fitness as well as by a gym or studio setting. I want to make sure every person feels comfortable from the moment they enter my space. Southern hospitality is about lifting people up and allowing them to feel capable from whatever starting point they are in. My intention is to find movement that works for every body.
Q: How have other Southern traditions influenced you, the wellness community and your business? A: Southerners love to be helpful. The Yoga & Pilates Co-Op has grown over the past five years solely through word of mouth. The idea of respecting your elders and keeping our environment pristine has also been passed down to me, and now to my son. He often talks about how beautiful Hilton Head is and how we need to keep it clean. And Southerners are social. It is important for me to create a gathering vibe
before and after class. My clients truly get to know each other. Unlike other places where people may not interact, the people here connect. They talk about everything from serious women’s health issues to fun community activities like festivals and events.
Q: How can people embrace our Southern charm when it comes to the weather? A: There are bike trails that can take you around much of the island, along with plenty of beach access. You can even book beach Pilates or yoga. Our family lives near Celebration Park, so later today we are meeting friends there to kick around a soccer ball. Being in nature is one of our area’s greatest charms.
Q: What is your motto in life?
A: Just like my barre class, I believe in coming as you are. Authenticity is key.
Q: What is one fun fact that no one else knows about you?
A: I wear my heart on my sleeve, so I am an open book. There’s not much I don’t share. LL
LIFE IN MOTION Alyssa has worked in the health and wellness industry since 2012. In 2020 she co-founded the Yoga & Pilates Co-Op and created the popular barrePilates fusion class, Barre As You Are.
Alyssa Petro shares a joyful beach moment with her husband, Phil Mullins, and their son, Mariano. Known locally as the Swolestrum Crew, the family has spent years championing health and wellness through knowledge, action, positivity, and a contagious sense of motivation.
Local business buzz
What’s new, what’s next and what’s shaping the Lowcountry
STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM
May brings steady momentum across the Lowcountry. Spring has settled in, and early promise is turning into real progress. “Coming soon” is becoming open doors, while new plans continue to take shape. This month’s Business Buzz tracks the openings, expansions and ideas driving the local economy into one of its busiest seasons.
Get Stitched Ridgeland
Get Stitched brings its custom embroidery, screen printing and engraving services to a new Riverwalk storefront in Ridgeland. The locally owned business offers a convenient, hands-on space for apparel, branded goods and personalized gifts.
NOW OPEN
Bark & Bubbles Lady’s Island
Now open at 12 Fairfield Road, Suite 3A, Bark & Bubbles offers grooming, daycare and overnight boarding in a calm, thoughtfully designed space. With a gentle approach and 24/7 online booking, it is a strong addition for local pet owners north of the Broad.
Sea Pines Pottery
Hilton Head Island
At The Shops at Sea Pines Center, Sea Pines Pottery invites guests to slow down and create. Choose a piece, make it your own, and return for a glazed, food-safe keepsake. Ideal for a quiet afternoon, a celebration or a paint-and-sip night.
COMING SOON
Cosmetic Skin & Laser Center & RegenCen Bluffton
Opening soon on Persimmon Street, CSLC & RegenCen will offer personalized aesthetic care focused on natural, long-term results. Each visit begins with a complimentary consultation tailored to individual goals.
MUSC Health Bluffton
Medical Pavilion Bluffton
Set to open this spring at 700 Buckwalter Towne Blvd., this 54,000-square-foot facility will bring primary care, specialty services and a Hollings Cancer Center clinic together for more convenient, coordinated care.
Fleet Feet has opened in Okatie Village with a focus on fit and function. Using 3D foot scanning and gait analysis, the store matches customers with the right shoes and gear, then builds community through training programs and group runs.
Hilton Head Pharmacy Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Pharmacy is now open at 5 Park Lane, expanding a trusted Bluffton-based pharmacy to the island. The full-service location offers prescription care, immunizations, health screenings and free delivery, along with specialized compounding for hormone therapy, dermatology, pain management and veterinary needs. Led by pharmacists Rob Vaughn and Cole Holloway, the team combines modern convenience with personalized, community-focused care.
May River Crossing developments Bluffton
Growth continues with a new CVS under construction, a proposed Chipotle and plans for a Beaufort Memorial medical office and Fifth Third Bank branch. The expansion adds convenience to one of Bluffton’s busiest corridors.
BUSINESS NEWS
A fresh look for a local staple
The Farmers Market of Bluffton has unveiled a new logo and poster by artist Amiri Farris, inspired by local farmers, coastal landscapes and GullahGeechee traditions. Limited signed prints give residents a chance to take home a piece of Bluffton’s story.
Fleet Feet Bluffton Bluffton
GUTSTEIN GALLERY
Delectable baked goods, sandwiches, fresh coffee, and signature drinks Host of the SCAD Savannah Film
Home to work in a variety of mediums by SCAD students and renowned international alumni
DINE. SHOP. DISCOVER.
Explore SCAD on Broughton Street
concerts, screenings, and live performances
coffee, made-to-order drinks, tasty bites, and live entertainment
Festival,
Built on comfort
THE BUSINESSES THAT TURNED SOUTHERN TRADITIONS INTO LASTING ICONS
STORY BY LANCE HANLIN
s
Some businesses sell products. The best ones sell a feeling. In the South that feeling is easy to recognize, even if it’s hard to define. It’s the cold sweat on a glass bottle in July, the hum of cicadas beyond a screened porch, the kind of meal that tastes like it came from someone’s grandmother’s kitchen. Around here it might be a cooler packed for Broad Creek or a conversation that stretches long after the sun goes down. Across the region, a handful of Southern brands have found a way to bottle that experience, turning everyday rituals into lasting icons.
The taste of home
If there is a universal language of Southern comfort, it begins at the table.
Few brands capture it better than Coca-Cola. First served at Jacobs’ Pharmacy in downtown Atlanta, it became a staple in a region defined by long, humid summers. Its magic isn’t just in the formula, but in the ritual. Ice. Glass. That first cold sip. Georgia gave us more than just the perfect soft drink. Chick-fil-A began inside Atlanta’s Greenbriar Mall, where Truett Cathy paired a simple chicken sandwich with something just as important: genuine hospitality.
Then there’s KFC, where Colonel Harland Sanders perfected his recipe at a roadside service station in Corbin, Kentucky, during the Great Depression. Fried chicken in the South isn’t just food. It’s a centerpiece. A reason to gather.
In the Carolinas, Bojangles built its name on West Boulevard in Charlotte, serving scratch-made biscuits and boldly seasoned chicken.
Meanwhile, Duke’s mayonnaise got its start in Greenville, where Eugenia Duke first made her signature spread for sandwiches sold to soldiers at Camp Sevier. It’s the kind of ingredient that never makes the menu but defines the meal.
And no Southern table feels complete without a little heat. Tabasco has been produced on Louisiana’s Avery Island for more than 150 years, while Community Coffee began in Baton Rouge, where “Cap” Saurage started roasting beans that would fuel generations of mornings.
Comfort shows up in the small indulgences, too. The glow of a Krispy Kreme sign in WinstonSalem. A cold RC Cola paired with a MoonPie, a working-class favorite from early 20th-century lunch pails. The unmistakable bite of Conecuh Sausage, first produced in Evergreen, Alabama. These are the flavors that last.
HAVE A COKE AND A SMILE In downtown Atlanta near Centennial Olympic Park, the World of Coca-Cola brings the brand’s story to life with vintage memorabilia, interactive exhibits and a recreated soda fountain that captures its earliest days. It’s an easy road trip, about 4 hours and 15 minutes from Hilton Head, roughly 283 miles.
Manor on Broad Creek delivers a lifestyle unlike any other on Hilton Head Island.
Porch-swing pace, packaged
Of course, comfort in the South isn’t limited to what’s on the plate. In Lynchburg, Tennessee, Jack Daniel’s turned a quiet town into a global name, its charcoal-mellowed whiskey meant to be poured slowly and shared at the end of the day.
Not far away in South Pittsburg, Lodge Cast Iron has been crafting skillets for more than a century, the kind that don’t just cook meals but carry them forward. In Birmingham, Golden Flake started with hand-cooked potato chips and grew into a road-trip staple, passed around the car without a second thought.
And in Greenville, Southern Tide took the easy rhythm of coastal living and turned it into something you can wear, just as at home on the water as it is around town. Some of these brands became global icons. Others never needed to. These brands don’t just sell products. They sell a pace. Slower. Simpler. Better.
COMFORT YOU CAN BROWSE
More than a restaurant, Cracker Barrel’s old-time country store is part of the experience, where candy, cast iron and porch-ready finds turn a simple stop into a stroll through Southern nostalgia. Every detail is thoughtfully arranged to make comfort feel right at home, even just off the highway.
Why it works
BUSINESS Visit the Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg, where Tennessee whiskey has been crafted since 1866. With several nearby liquor landmarks, it’s an easy excuse for a well-earned road trip. About 6.5 hours from Hilton Head, roughly 450 miles, it’s a long drive that ends on a high note.
Hospitality as a business model
And then there’s the South’s greatest export of all: hospitality. Cracker Barrel began in Lebanon, just off I-40 in Tennessee, where founder Dan Evins created a place that offered something travelers couldn’t get at a gas station: a hot meal, a friendly face and a place that felt like home. The rocking chairs, the peg games, the old-time store. None of it was accidental.
At the other end of the spectrum, Waffle House opened its first restaurant in Avondale Estates, just outside Atlanta, with a simple promise: good food, fast service and doors that never close. Open 24 hours a day, every day, it became a symbol of reliability across the South. Whether it’s late night or early morning, you know exactly what you’ll find. A hot plate. A familiar menu. Someone calling you “hon.” Even the American road trip got a Southern upgrade with Holiday Inn, which began in Memphis and gave families a clean, dependable place to land at the end of a long day’s drive.
The South has never been in a hurry to reinvent itself. That may be its greatest strength. The businesses that endure understand that the best things don’t need to be reimagined. A biscuit recipe passed down through generations. A glass bottle pulled from an ice chest. A porch that invites you to sit a little longer.
These aren’t innovations, they’re traditions. And that’s the real secret. These businesses are not built on products. They are built on memory, shaped by the places they came from and the people they were created to serve. In the South, memory isn’t just part of comfort. It is the whole thing. And it always has been.
CAVIAR OF THE SOUTH A Southern staple with a cult following, Palmetto Cheese began in Pawleys Island and turned a humble pimento cheese recipe into a regional icon. Creamy, sharp and just a little indulgent, it’s the kind of spread that shows up at every gathering and disappears just as quickly.
SOUTHERN SWITCHEROO With a name like Texas Pete, most people assume it was born deep in the Lone Star State. In reality, this iconic hot sauce comes from WinstonSalem, where it has been adding a little Southern heat to tables since 1929.
SOUTHERN ORIGINALS
The brands that put the South on the map
SOUTH CAROLINA
Duke’s Mayonnaise (Greenville)
Palmetto Cheese (Pawleys Island)
Adluh Flour (Columbia)
Charleston Tea Garden (Wadmalaw Island)
Carolina Gold Rice (Charleston)
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit (Charleston)
GEORGIA
Coca-Cola (Atlanta)
Chick-fil-A (Atlanta)
RC Cola (Columbus)
Waffle House (Avondale Estates)
Savannah Bee Company (Savannah)
Claxton Fruit Cake (Claxton)
NORTH CAROLINA
Krispy Kreme (Winston-Salem)
Texas Pete (Winston-Salem)
Bojangles (Charlotte)
Harris Teeter (Charlotte)
Pepsi (New Bern)
Cheerwine (Salisbury)
Mt. Olive Pickle Company (Mount Olive)
TENNESSEE
Jack Daniel’s (Lynchburg)
Lodge Cast Iron (South Pittsburg)
MoonPie (Chattanooga)
Bush’s Best (Chestnut Hill)
Piggly Wiggly (Memphis)
Little Debbie (Collegedale)
ALABAMA
Conecuh Sausage (Evergreen)
Golden Flake (Birmingham)
Milo’s Tea Company (Bessemer)
Dreamland BBQ (Tuscaloosa)
Wickles Pickles (Dadeville)
LOUISIANA
Tabasco (Avery Island)
Tony Chachere’s (Opelousas)
Community Coffee (Baton Rouge)
Zapp’s (Gramercy)
Abita Beer (Abita Springs)
WHISKEY
A
Lowcountry Living Perfected
At Hampton Hall, mornings begin on a Pete Dye Signature golf course, afternoons unfold on the pickleball courts or beside the pool, and evenings gather around exceptional dining. This is more than a club. It is home.
Rooted in remedy
THE PLANTS, HERBS AND TRADITIONS THAT STILL SHAPE SOUTHERN HEALING
STORY BY LANCE HANLIN
oOn a warm Southern afternoon, the cure was rarely far away. It might be growing along the fence line, tucked beneath your feet or steeping quietly on the stove. Long before pharmacies became routine and wellness turned into an industry, healing in the South came down to knowing what grew nearby and how to use it. In the Lowcountry and beyond, remedies weren’t bought. They were gathered from the yard, the woods or the edge of the marsh, shaped by the land and passed down like a favorite recipe. What took root here wasn’t a single tradition, but a blend. Native American plant knowledge, African healing practices carried through the Gullah-Geechee corridor, and European remedies brought across the Atlantic came together to form a distinctly Southern approach to care, one built on observation, availability and trust in what the land could provide.
Plantain, the backyard healer
Plantain grows just about everywhere: in lawns, along footpaths and tucked between cracks in the sidewalk. While many see it as a weed, it has long been a go-to remedy for skin irritations. Fresh leaves are crushed or chewed slightly to release their juices, then pressed onto insect bites, stings or small cuts to reduce inflammation and draw out irritation. Some steep the leaves into teas for their mild, soothing qualities, while others infuse them into oils for salves that can be kept on hand. It is simple, accessible and remarkably effective; the kind of remedy you do not have to go looking for.
Elderberry and the art of prevention
Few remedies are as lasting as elderberry. These small, dark berries have long been used across the South to support the immune system, especially as cooler weather sets in. Traditionally, they are simmered into syrups with honey, cinnamon and ginger, then taken by the spoonful at the first sign of a cold. Elderflowers, the delicate blossoms of the same plant, are steeped into teas to ease fevers or congestion. Some families dry both berries and flowers to keep on hand year-round, while others make tinctures for longer storage. Whether brewed, bottled or spooned straight from the jar, elderberry remains one of the clearest examples of food and medicine working hand in hand.
Mint, ginger, lemon and the power of tea
In Southern kitchens many remedies begin with a kettle. Mint, which thrives in the Lowcountry, is steeped into tea to calm the stomach and cool the body on hot days. Ginger brings warmth, easing digestion and the early stages of a cold. Sage and thyme are brewed for sore throats and respiratory support, while rosemary adds a piney, grounding note. Mullein, a longtime Southern staple, is steeped to support the lungs and ease coughs. Combined with honey and lemon, these herbs create remedies that feel as comforting as they are functional. Warm, fragrant and familiar, each cup carries a bit of tradition with it. And sometimes the remedy leans more practical than poetic. In many Southern homes onion syrup has long been a go-to for stubborn coughs. Sliced onions layered with sugar or honey release a thick, sweet liquid, taken by the spoonful for relief. It may not taste pretty, but it works.
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Aloe, comfrey and skin soothers
For burns, bites and everyday skin troubles, Southern folk medicine often turns to plants that soothe on contact. Aloe vera, grown in pots or just outside the door, offers instant relief. Break a leaf, and the cooling gel is ready to use. Comfrey, sometimes called “knitbone,” has long been used in salves and poultices for bruises and sore muscles. Calendula flowers are infused into oils to create gentle balms for cuts, rashes and dry skin. For deeper aches, cornmeal poultices were once a common household fix. Mixed with warm water and applied to the skin, they were believed to draw out irritation and reduce inflammation. Simple. Practical. Already in the kitchen.
Chamomile, lavender and calm
Not all remedies are meant to fight something off. Some are meant to slow things down. Chamomile is brewed into tea to promote relaxation and better sleep, while lavender finds its way into teas, sachets and oils to calm the mind. Honeysuckle, sweet and unmistakably Southern, is sometimes steeped into light teas or simply enjoyed for its calming scent on warm evenings. These gentler remedies reflect another side of Southern healing, one that values rest as much as recovery. A quiet cup of tea or the scent of something blooming nearby can be just as powerful as any tonic.
Vinegar, garlic and kitchen cures
The pantry has always doubled as a place for remedies. Apple cider vinegar is a staple, often mixed with honey and herbs to create tonics that support digestion and overall wellness. Some recipes add garlic, along with ginger, fruit or hot peppers for an extra kick. These blends, often called fire cider, are taken in small amounts. Sharp, bracing and unmistakable. The flavor may be bold, but the intention is simple. Keep the body balanced and ready. And in the heat of a Southern summer, relief sometimes comes in simpler forms. A sip of pickle juice, salty and sharp, has long been used to ease muscle cramps and restore balance after long days in the sun.
A remedy for every season
Southern remedies follow the seasons. What blooms, ripens or grows wild at a given time often becomes what is used. Spring greens, summer herbs, fall berries, winter tonics. In the Lowcountry that might mean mint in the heat, elderberry as the air cools or citrus when it can be found. It also means turning to what surrounds you, even the ocean itself. Saltwater has long been used for minor wounds and skin irritations, a simple, effective remedy drawn straight from the coast. It is all part of the same instinct. Pay attention. Use what is available. Trust the process. Because around here, healing has never been about chasing something far away. It is about knowing what is already close and taking the time to let it work. LL
FROM PANTRY TO PRESCRIPTION
Everyday kitchen staples with healing roots
KITCHEN STAPLES
Honey: Soothes sore throats, naturally antimicrobial and the backbone of syrups and teas
Apple cider vinegar: A sharp, tangy base for digestion-supporting tonics
Garlic: A bold, immune-boosting staple used raw, infused or steeped
Lemon: Bright, vitamin-rich citrus for colds, hydration and balance
Ginger: Warming root that settles the stomach and eases early cold symptoms
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth while supporting circulation
SPICE RACK
Turmeric: Earthy, golden root known for its antiinflammatory properties
Cayenne pepper: A pinch of heat to stimulate circulation and clear sinuses
Cloves: Deeply aromatic, used in soothing teas and syrups
Nutmeg: A warm spice often stirred into drinks to promote rest
Black pepper: Enhances other ingredients and adds gentle heat
HERB BUNDLE
Thyme: A go-to for coughs and congestion
Sage: Soothing for sore throats with a savory edge
Rosemary: Piney and invigorating, helps clear the head
Mint: Cooling and calming for digestion and heat
Mullein: A longtime staple for lung support and cough relief
Bay leaves: Simmered for subtle anti-inflammatory benefits
CUPBOARD STAPLES
Onion: Base for old-fashioned cough syrups
Salt: Effective for rinses, soaks and swelling
Molasses: Mineral-rich and long used for energy and iron support
Baking soda: A gentle fix for skin irritation
Oats (oatmeal): Soothing for dry or itchy skin
Cornmeal: Used in warm poultices to draw out irritation
FROM THE FRIDGE
Pickle juice: Eases muscle cramps and restores balance in the heat
Buttermilk: Traditionally used to support digestion
Aloe vera (gel or leaf): Cooling relief for burns and cuts
Citrus slices: Chilled lemon or orange for hydration and immune support
Comfort, found
Pull up a rocker, and set a spell. We have a few locals you should meet
tSTORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA STAFF
There’s a reason why the words “Southern” and “comfort” just seem to belong together. It’s not because of the famed spirit brand, and it’s not because of the iambic poetry of their rhythm or the linguistic string of sibilants and fricatives in their sounds that simply roll off the tongue. Although they do simply sound right together, all science aside.
No, the reason those two words belong together is because each defines the other. The South is a land of comforts, from the gentility of its warm breezes to the succor of sweet tea when those breezes fade. This is a place that invites you to take a load off, visit a while, and maybe hear a few stories while your host offers something from the kitchen. And as far as defining comfort, well, is there any kind of comfort like Southern comfort? We certainly don’t think so, and we imagine these locals would be inclined to agree.
faces
Bess Soper
Carrying forward a Southern tradition of comfort, one plate at a time
wWithout the South, the notion of comfort food simply would not exist. This region was the cradle for culinary comforts like mac and cheese, fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, peach cobbler and fried green tomatoes, dishes that created a rich tradition of meals that feel like a warm hug.
Since 1982 Bess Soper has been carrying forward that legacy of crafting delicious food that feels like a visit from an old friend. From the outside, Bess’ Delicatessen and Catering is easy to miss, despite its perch on a bend in New Orleans Road. But step beyond its unassuming storefront into a space decorated like your favorite aunt’s dining room, and you’ll understand how pure comfort and hospitality can feel.
“I have so many customers who come in for lunch so often, if they don’t show up for four or five days I’ll call them to check in,” said Soper. “It’s a great relationship.”
Soper took something of a roundabout path to become a culinary institution on Hilton Head. Working as a kindergarten teacher in Bluffton after first moving here with her husband, Mike, she was asked to help prep an event by the school nurse, who catered on the side.
“I did a few of those, and then people started calling me at home. I began doing events on my own, then opened this spot in Fountain Center,” she said. The shop doesn’t just feed the regular lunch crowd; it is also the nerve center for a busy catering operation that runs on pure hospitality. Within just a few years of opening, Bess’ was feeding 400 people at a corporate polo event for
Nabisco. “That was probably the biggest challenge I’ve taken on, but everything went beautifully,” she said.
Since then, she has brought her signature Southern fare to events from 200-seat weddings to private parties during Heritage. And each event gets the same warm, friendly treatment.
“I’ve had the same staff for years, and there are certain things I’ll do to put a more personalized touch on an event than some of the big companies, so when we go into a house, we get hugs, and everyone knows us. We’ve become very close to clients,” she said. “We don’t take on more than we can handle because it’s not fair to the client, and it’s not fair to the staff. We want every party to be the best.”
COMFORT, SERVED For more than four decades, Bess Soper has been feeding the Lowcountry with dishes that feel like home, building a loyal following one warm plate and familiar face at a time.
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What’s on the menu at Bess’?
aAsk any restaurateur, and they’ll tell you that regulars are creatures of habit. They come in on the same day, often at the same time, each week. They sit in the same seat. And, above all, they always order the same thing.
It’s no different at Bess’ Delicatessen and Catering. For some, it’s the sweet-and-savory one-two punch of the Soap’s Delight, with cranberry mayo and turkey breast making each bite feel like Thanksgiving. For others, it’s the famous Reuben, a symphony of flavor and texture that could go toe-to-toe with any sandwich shop in Manhattan.
But for the true connoisseur, the pinnacle of flavor can only be found in the indelible epicurean experience that is the Cloudy Special.
“It’s the caramelized onions,” said Bess Soper, creator of the legendary sandwich and owner of Bess’, when asked what sets it apart. “You add that to the horseradish, provolone and the London broil, and that’s it. I use Boar’s Head London broil, which is a little more expensive than regular roast beef, but it’s worth it.”
At the risk of editorializing, it is less a sandwich and more akin to launching yourself headfirst into a sensory overload of perfectly balanced flavor. But of course, it’s not the only thing on the menu.
faces
Kathryn Wall
Drawing inspiration from the rhythms, language and mysteries of
fthe South
Few places nurture a storyteller’s soul like the South. From Faulkner to Cormac McCarthy, some of the finest yarns ever spun started in the soil of the South, a reflection of the region’s unique language, rhythm and spirit.
Kathryn Wall, despite emerging over the last few decades as one of the Lowcountry’s most celebrated authors, is not Southern by birth. Nor did she, as the saying goes, get here as soon as she could. But it was a story that drew her here.
“It was completely serendipitous. My late husband, Norman, and I had taken a long weekend at a resort in Ohio, and someone had left that Friday’s Wall Street Journal by the pool. Norman was reading through it when he asked me, ‘Have you ever heard of Hilton Head Island? That would be a great place for a vacation,’” she recalled. “He ended up flying down and buying a condo.”
That was 1984, and that chance encounter with a newspaper story began Kathryn Wall’s next chapter in the South. Moving here permanently 10 years later, she arrived just as development was beginning to pick up and there were still quietly unexplored corners of the Lowcountry.
“We’d just get in the car and get lost trying to explore. Even something as simple as Marshland Road, you’d go down there and suddenly it dead-ended in a forest,” she said. “A lot of things that seem normal now were all new and fascinating to me. I wanted to write about here because I was a newcomer.”
The thing was, Kathryn Wall was not yet a writer. For 25 years her career had taken her as far from the life of an author as possible, crunching numbers and scrolling spreadsheets as an accountant. But this new life in Hilton Head offered
STORY, FOUND What began as a chance discovery became a second act, as Kathryn Wall turned her love of the Lowcountry into a celebrated mystery series. Her books are available at Gifted and other local bookstores.
the promise of a fresh start, and she took a chance on a fiction contest in the nowdefunct Hilton Head Monthly magazine.
“It was one of those things I’d always wanted to do, but no one was encouraging girls to become writers when I was leaving high school,” she said. “When I won the contest, their publisher told me I ought to pursue this. Her encouragement was the first time that someone actually in the print business urged me to pursue my writing, and it gave me the courage keep at it.”
On a side note, that publisher, Lori Goodridge-Cribb, went on to publish the magazine you now hold in your hands. And that win kick-started a successful run of 13 novels in the Bay Tanner mystery series. All based in the Lowcountry and inspired by her travels along its backroads, it’s possibly one of the best Southern series a Yankee ever wrote.
“I was aware that I might not get some things right, so that’s why I had (Bay Tanner) attend college in Chicago,” Wall said with a laugh. Her secret was simply to observe the world around her, immersing herself in Southern euphemisms and language. “I used to say to people, ‘Be careful what you say in front of me in line at Publix. It might end up in a book.’”
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A Southern education
wWhen Kathryn Wall began work on the Bay Tanner mysteries, she knew that authenticity would be key to capturing the Lowcountry setting. Having moved here from Ohio, building that authenticity meant learning Southern as a second language.
“I just loved how people talked here. And some things always struck me as funny, like how people went by both their first and middle names,” she said. “On Hilton Head, there are a lot of people here who are transplants like me, so when I met someone who was genuinely Southern, I took advantage.”
Carefully studying the language of the Lowcountry helped put flesh on the bones of Bay Tanner, resulting in a fully realized character who felt as local as oyster roasts and boat days. It wasn’t just the sense of place Wall brought to her books, crafted through extensive travels across the region. It was the way the South can turn a phrase that brought them to life.
“My brother lived in the Upstate near Greenwood, and whenever I’d meet people up there, they’d ask, ‘Who are your people?’” she said. “Northerners ask what you do. Southerners ask who your people are.”
Bay Tanner Mysteries
Set against the sultry backdrop of the Lowcountry, the Bay Tanner Mysteries series by Kathryn R. Wall follow a sharp-witted financial consultant drawn into a world of secrets, scandals and murder.
In for a Penny (2000)
And Not a Penny More (2002)
Perdition House (2003)
Judas Island (2004)
Resurrection Road (2005)
Bishop’s Reach (2006)
Sanctuary Hill (2007)
The Mercy Oak (2008)
Covenant Hall (2009)
Canaan’s Gate (2010)
Jericho Cay (2011)
St. John’s Folly (2013)
Jordan Point (2015)
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faces
Todd Ernst
Creating a sensory experience where aroma, flavor and curiosity collide
cComfort isn’t always just a tactile experience. Sure, the perfectly cushioned support of your favorite chair, the soft embrace of a loved one and the soothing pulse of a massage all go a long way toward creating an easy sense of comfort.
But sometimes comfort is an experience savored by every sense. The soothing florals of a warm cup of tea. The savory spice of a homecooked meal. These are comforts we enjoy nose-first before savoring their flavor. If you want a sneak peek of what that could feel like, just walk by Coligny’s The Spice & Tea Exchange when the wind is right.
“It can be sensory overload for some people,” said Todd Ernst of the complex, enticing aroma constantly emanating from his store. “People will say they can smell it from around the corner, especially if we have the door open and there’s a good breeze.”
Todd and Sarah Ernst purchased the Coligny store two years ago after moving down from North Carolina, encouraged by Sarah’s father, Bob Long, who has owned locations for the last 16 years.
“He’s been mentoring us along because this was a new experience for both of us, and it has been great,” said Todd. “There was a lot to learn, and we’re still learning.”
The tallest order was following the precise recipes that The Spice & Tea Exchange uses for all of its products, whether it’s a loose-leaf tea, a spice blend or a complete recipe kit.
Crafted on-site from ingredients
stacked high in the back room, each one is a carefully balanced mix of herbs and spices. If you show up at the right time, you can even watch the entire process at the blending counter toward the back.
“We have to keep everything consistent and as fresh as possible, so we don’t make it until we need it,” said Todd. “There’s constant turnover, so nothing has a chance to sit on the shelf too long.”
Having mastered the company’s often complex recipes, Todd and Sarah have also expanded what the store can be with a full tea bar in the back. Pulling from the blends that made the store famous, the bar lets you walk out with a hot or cold cup of your favorite, whether it’s a lavender and juniper mix, an herbal tea, an oat milk latte or a matcha.
“I love working the tea bar. I feel like Tom Cruise in Cocktail,” said Todd. “When the company first started, this wasn’t a thing, but it’s been a great addition to the establishment.”
The tea bar lets you take comfort to go while picking up something for a relaxed moment later. All you have to do is follow your nose.
FOLLOW YOUR NOSE At Coligny’s The Spice & Tea Exchange, Todd Ernst creates an experience that begins with aroma and ends with flavor, inviting visitors to slow down, explore and savor every step.
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faces
tA warm cup of comfort
Todd and Sarah Ernst might know tea better than anyone else on the island. As the owners of The Spice & Tea Exchange in Coligny, they stock a wide range of teas, each with a carefully curated flavor profile born from a precise mix of ingredients. So you can imagine neither of them has a simple “go-to” tea.
“If I want a hot tea, I’ll usually go for the ginger turmeric, which is good for digestion and a natural anti-inflammatory,” said Todd. “But during warmer weather, I can’t drink hot tea, so I’ll go for the Pineapple Paradise, which is a green tea with a little pineapple simple syrup.”
Sarah’s go-to is more of a moving target. “Currently, I’m loving Mystic Dragon, which is a blend of Japanese sencha and Chinese dragonwell green tea,” she said.
Ultimately, they both agree that the most comforting tea is the one you’re drinking.
“When you think of tea, you just get that picture in your mind of sitting by a fire, drinking a cup of hot tea,” said Todd. LL
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LOCAL LEGEND
A hand on the wheel
Emmett
McCracken
didn’t just witness Bluffton’s explosive growth. He helped steer it
STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN + PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA STAFF
iIt’s been said to the point of cliché, but it’s a truth people live by around here: Bluffton is a State of Mind. Coined by Edith Inglesby in 1968 in her book A Corner of Carolina: The Four Seasons in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort and Bluffton, the phrase fits because it’s only vaguely defined. What the Bluffton State of Mind is varies from person to person, allowing anyone to characterize it however they’d like.
Henry “Emmett” McCracken Jr. speaks with a little more authority than most. He lived through the hardscrabble days of Bluffton, when roads were paved with oyster shells, in a house that was the first in town to be built pre-wired for electricity. After leaving for a career in the Army, he returned in 1989 to a Bluffton poised for tremendous change. He wasted little time becoming a major force in guiding that change. So what is the Bluffton State of Mind to him?
“I think it means friendship and an easy, uncomplicated way of life. You can be assured of walking into any house or store and being comfortable with who you’re going to meet,” he said. “And it’s not difficult to look out at the rhythm of the river and the changing tides and know somebody greater than yourself is in charge of things.”
He’s seen that rhythm accelerate somewhat, but the growth of Bluffton isn’t something he laments. It’s something he’s fiercely proud of.
“My wife, Teddy, and I were driving out of Stock Farm at around 3:00 the other day, and at that time of day it can be kind of awful to try and turn left. I commented to Teddy, ‘Where did all these people come from?’ She told me, ‘You brought them!’”
ROOTED IN THE SOUTH Longtime Bluffton resident Henry “Emmett” McCracken Jr. has worn many hats, from soldier to councilman to mayor. Through decades of growth and change, he has remained a steady voice for preserving the spirit of the town he’s always called home.
She’s not far off. After a failed bid for a council seat in 1992 (“I lost, which is probably good for the soul”), he was elected to county council in 1993, serving for six of the most consequential years in Bluffton’s modern history as development came to this sleepy town.
“Although it’s not in Bluffton, it all really started with Sun City. It was evident by that time that things were going to change,” he said. But even with change, Bluffton was going to be Bluffton. “I remember sitting on this porch in October of 1994 with the manager of Sun City at the time. His bosses in Phoenix couldn’t understand why nothing was being done, but we’d had so much rain that month. Sun City was a swamp, and they had caterpillars and dump trucks getting stuck in the mud. It was amusing hearing him try to explain that to people in Arizona.”
The success of Sun City brought in all the big national developers, like Toll Brothers and D.R. Horton, with the pace of new homes and neighborhoods accelerating to new speeds. When Emmett was elected mayor of Bluffton in 1999, his administration entered an entirely new playing field.
“It was just one thing after another in the early 2000s,” he said. “And either Bluffton was going to be in charge of that, or Beaufort County was going to run the show. I always thought it was better for us to be the engine rather than the caboose. That’s why I was in favor of a lot of the annexations. You can get all that traffic and crowded schools and any other thing, but I think in total that’s been beneficial to the community.”
SIDE BY SIDE Together Emmett and Teddy McCracken have lived Bluffton’s story in real time, holding tight to what matters most while watching their hometown grow around them.
843.723.7557
4350 Bridge View Drive | North Charleston, SC
145 Lockwood Drive | Charleston, SC
3095 Soperton Drive | Bluffton, SC
His term as mayor was defined by a vision that knew development, progress and change were coming. Having someone at the wheel who had been here, who remembered the untamed wild that Bluffton once was, helped keep the State of Mind intact.
“I recall driving cows from one pasture to another down Highway 46, about where Palmetto Bluff Road is. It was probably a mile to a mile and a half, driving 18 to 20 cows. If a car came by, they’d let the cows pass. And if it was someone you knew, you’d stop and chat. You certainly couldn’t do that now, and I don’t even think there are 20 cows in southern Beaufort County.”
As much as it has changed, Bluffton, through the eyes of Emmett McCracken, is still that place of comfort, where everyone knows everyone. Where everyone used community canneries to seal away the summer crop and stored their catch in community freezer lockers. Where people with few TVs would get a phone call to let them know local hero Dan Driessen was up to bat for the Cincinnati Reds. Where a graduating class had six kids and a basketball team that practiced on a court of crushed oyster shells.
“We didn’t make much news in the sports world,” he said with a laugh.
It’s a Bluffton that means just as much to the people who live here today as it did to Emmett and Teddy McCracken when they first returned. His is a Bluffton whose State of Mind is geared toward a brighter future.
“I think we’ll always have tension between development and protecting the river, and we’ve witnessed that from time to time,” he said. “But I think if we are diligent, and town and county government can say ‘no’ at the proper times, things will be OK.” LL
A LIFE WELL COLLECTED Many longtime locals associate Teddy and Emmett McCracken with Stock Farm Antiques, the cherished Bluffton landmark they ran for decades before closing its doors in 2018.
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18 Belmont Drive, Bluffton, SC
A Custom-Designed Belfair Marshfront Masterpiece with Expansive Sunrise Vistas
Set along the serene marshes of Belfair, this exceptional custom residence, designed by acclaimed architect Kermit Huggins, embodies a refined coastal aesthetic with a modern edge.
Privately positioned on a beautifully landscaped .74-acre homesite, the property makes an immediate impression with its gracious approach and striking architectural presence.
Inside, the home unfolds with soaring ceilings, statement lighting, intricate millwork, and wideplank wood flooring throughout. The great room is a true showpiece, where an entire wall of glass frames sweeping marsh vistas and captures the Lowcountry’s unforgettable sunrises. The mainlevel primary suite offers a quiet retreat, while thoughtfully designed living spaces include a private office, media room, and a well-appointed laundry room with integrated workspace. Cleverly concealed storage, tucked behind custom built-ins, adds both function and intrigue.
An elevator provides seamless access to all levels, complementing four bedrooms, five full baths, and one half bath. Designed with entertaining in mind, the lower level opens to expansive covered outdoor living areas, a heated pool, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with bar seating. A gas fire pit and integrated bug misting system enhance year-round enjoyment, while a dedicated pool bath ensures effortless hosting.
Additional features include a four-car garage and two golf cart bays, ideal for Belfair’s lifestyle.
Grand yet inviting. Sophisticated yet relaxed. This is a home where thoughtful design meets the natural beauty of the marsh, a rare and distinguished offering in one of the Lowcountry’s most coveted communities.
4 Beds | 5.5 Baths | 4,491 Sqft MLS# 504917 | Offered for $2,795,000 Listed & Marketed by Diana Sroufe
tHow is Stan Smith?
CHECKING IN ON HILTON HEAD ISLAND’S FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD
TENNIS LEGEND AND FASHION ICON
STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN
The 2024 documentary about our island’s world-famous tennis pro Stan Smith, titled Who Is Stan Smith? had a very specific audience. Specifically, an entire generation raised on hip-hop, who bought a pair of Adidas Stan Smiths after seeing them on the feet of everyone, from Jay-Z to the Beastie Boys, but had otherwise no clue what that name meant. Its title was a question answered over 90 minutes, laying out Stan the Man’s fabled tennis career, from public courts in Pasadena to the pinnacle of the sport, while celebrating the family he built with his beloved wife, Margie.
In between educating sneakerheads on the legend behind the smiling face on the shoe’s tongue, it weighed the cultural impact of his shoe, with everyone from David Bowie to Pharrell bringing them into the zeitgeist again and again. Ultimately, it illustrated a legacy that extends far beyond the shoe store to an audience that had never seen his rise to a No. 1 global ranking.
Here on Hilton Head Island, we are not necessarily part of that audience. As entertaining as the documentary (now on Hulu and ESPN+) is, we don’t need to be told who Stan Smith is. We all live in a community that he has made his own and left his indelible mark on since 1971. So, being that we already know “Who is Stan Smith,” the only question that remains is, “How is Stan Smith?”
ISLAND ICON Stan Smith may be a global tennis legend with a U.S. Open title (1971), a Wimbledon championship (1972) and a year ranked No. 1 in the world, but on Hilton Head Island, he and his wife, Margie, are simply part of the fabric. Since 1971 the Smith family has grown up alongside the community, showing up at schools, on the courts and at countless local events. The iconic Adidas shoe that bears his name may be recognized worldwide, but here he’s known just as much for the life he’s built off the court.
Still in motion
It turns out Stan is just as busy today as when he was crisscrossing the globe as the top tennis player in the world. And not just because, even at age 80, he is a constant presence on the courts of the SmithStearns Tennis Academy that he founded in 2002. What’s keeping him traveling now, this time as an entrepreneur, is the event management firm he founded with Gary Niebur 30 years ago, Stan Smith Events. Focusing on massive sporting events like Wimbledon and the FIFA World Cup, the firm takes him all over the world, creating unforgettable experiences for clients.
“At Wimbledon, for example, we’ll help set up the whole weekend for them,” he said. “We have a house we rent right by Wimbledon, and we have people come in the morning for some drinks and photographs. Sometimes we’ll have another player come by, like John McEnroe, Chrissie Evert or Martina Navratilova, for a little interview and photos.”
Smith’s powerful connections in the sports world, earned by the simple fact of who he is, help drive these experiences for clients like American Express, Delta, AT&T and Indeed.
SKIP THE DRIVE. KEEP THE VIBE.
Save the drive and start your trip right here on Hilton Head Island.
From your home to our airport – in a just a short drive. Enjoy the convenience of a 10-minute drive to the airport, quick check-in and easy parking at the Hilton Head Island airport. With nonstop flights to hub cities and one-stop connections worldwide, you can get to anywhere you need to be, on your choice of major airlines – right from our island’s own airport.
GENERATIONAL GREATNESS Stan caught up with fellow tennis great Venus Williams during her 2015 visit to Hilton Head Island for an appearance at Players’ World of Sports.
Jan Barboglio
GAME, SET, LEGEND
Stan hoists the Wimbledon trophy after a five-set win over Ilie Năstase in 1972. At 6-foot-4, he combined power with unexpected agility, moving with a quickness that made the court seem smaller. His style was all efficiency: sharp strokes, swift trips to the net and points finished without fuss.
“The whole idea is to provide talent, access, experiences and activities that are unique and memorable to the guests, and, therefore to their clients. We’ve had some classic matches that the guests have seen, like the finals and semifinals of Wimbledon, the Rugby World Cup. Those are special moments, and a lot of these events are bucket-list experiences,” he said. “So it’s meaningful to the guests, but it also strengthens the relationship between the company and their clients.”
Hilton Head, 1971
In between jaunts around the world, Stan continues to call Hilton Head Island his home base, as he has since 1971. Having been brought here by The Sea Pines Resort as it was still carving its own storied legacy, he was given a front-row seat to history.
“Charles Fraser realized that tennis was becoming popular in the ’70s, and he’d just started the golf tournament in ’68, so they invited me to come by,” Smith said. In the same year he won his first Grand Slam singles title, Smith saw what Fraser envisioned for tennis on Hilton Head and was eager to be part of it. “Within a year we had a tournament called the CBS Tennis Classic. And then right after that, we started the Family Circle Magazine Cup.”
More than tennis
But Stan and Margie didn’t come to Hilton Head Island just to play tennis. Raising four children who attended nearly every school on the island after being home schooled in their early years, the Smiths set about elevating the community beyond the court.
“We’ve been very involved with the Boys & Girls Club. Margie has been a volunteer for the last 20 years, and I’ve been on the board and continued to support them. We have this big gala coming up, and Margie and the gala committee have been spending a tremendous amount of time on that. It’s our biggest fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Club,” he said. “I would have to say that has been a highlight for us, the establishment of this Boys & Girls Club.”
Of course, the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island is not the only beneficiary of Smith’s generosity. Anyone who has seen him towering over the crowds during the Heritage in his tartan jacket knows his deep ties to the Heritage Classic Foundation.
“I was the chairman of the charities committee for maybe 15 years. We were involved with 85 different charities on Hilton Head, and I think it’s now around $61 million that’s been raised for charities in the Lowcountry since 1986,” he said. “I’m also on the scholarship committee, and this year we had some 80 applicants, which we’ve narrowed to 11 students who will receive scholarships. It’s been a real highlight to see how outstanding some of these kids are.”
Investing in the future
One of the thornier issues facing Hilton Head Island over the last decade has been the availability of affordable workforce housing, and, as always, Smith has been quick to serve.
“A lot of people on Hilton Head are realizing that we need to address the issue and do something,” he said. “I just invested in the workforce housing that’s going to be by the hospital. It’s going to be 140 units, and that is incredibly important.”
With their deep involvement continuing as it has since arriving, Stan and Margie Smith have seen this island through many different eras of growth.
“In the early ’60s, Charles was begging people to buy beachfront property for $5,000. Of course, everybody thought that was ridiculous. No one wanted to live here,” Smith said. “But I think his vision really set the stage not only for Sea Pines, but for Hilton Head. And the town has done a pretty good job of trying to preserve the environment. Charles Fraser really was the most important person in the development of the island because he created covenants that guided development in Sea Pines, and those carried on to the rest of the island.”
Stan also got to witness Fraser at his feistiest, willing the island resort into existence by ensuring the cameras always captured its best side.
the art of design with our all-in-one luxury design firm, serving the Lowcountry with an unwavering commitment to excellence.
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BUILT ON SUPPORT Stan and Margie Smith have helped shape the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island into a cornerstone for working families; a place where support, opportunity and community come together.
“I’ll never forget the one year the golf tournament was in November, and Tom Watson was walking up the 18th fairway about to win,” Smith recalled. “He was wearing a ski cap, and Charles came up to try to take it off his head because in the early stages of the tournament, he didn’t want it televised that you’d need a ski cap.”
One of our own
The ski cap incident was one of many memories Smith holds of Sea Pines’ founder, part of the more than 50 years he has called the island home while securing his status as one of the greatest players in tennis and as an icon for sneakerheads around the world.
“With his vision of what he would like to have seen here, I think Charles would be pretty happy with where we are today,” he said.
As islanders, we know who Stan Smith is. He’s the towering figure in a plaid jacket walking the course at the Heritage. He’s the pillar of the community we see at galas, fundraisers and festivals. He’s the perennial coach, molding the game’s best players at Smith-Stearns Tennis Academy. He’s one of us. He just happens to be the only one of us who has achieved worldwide fame on tennis courts and fashion runways.
And he’s doing just fine, thanks for asking.
WORTH A WATCH
If you know the shoe, it’s time to meet the man. "Who Is Stan Smith?" traces his rise from Pasadena courts to global icon status, while showcasing scenes from Hilton Head Island that feel close to home. Even locals who know him well will come away with something new, making it a story well worth watching. Stream it: Hulu and ESPN+
THE RESUME BEHIND THE SNEAKERS
Long before his name showed up on your favorite pair of sneakers, Stan Smith was busy becoming one of the best tennis players on the planet.
Grand Slam singles champion (2): U.S. Open (1971), Wimbledon (1972) Grand Slam doubles champion (5): Including titles at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open
World No. 1 ranking: Reached the top spot in 1972
Davis Cup standout: Key member of the U.S. team that won the Davis Cup in 1968 and 1969
Career titles: 60+ professional titles across singles and doubles
International Tennis Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1987
Signature style: Known for his powerful serve-and-volley game and calm, sportsmanlike demeanor
Global icon: His partnership with Adidas produced the Stan Smith sneaker, one of the best-selling shoes of all time
STILL SHINING Stan enjoys a fireworks-lit evening in Cabo in 2022. A global tennis icon, he and his wife, Margie, and their children remain familiar and beloved members of the Hilton Head Island community.
FOREVER IN STYLE Clean, classic and instantly recognizable, the Adidas Stan Smith has moved far beyond the tennis court to become a global staple. Introduced in the 1970s and renamed for the champion in 1978, its minimalist design and signature look have remain largely unchanged over the decades.
BEYOND THE BASELINE Stan tips his hat while riding through Santa Fe in 2024, proving that even after a lifetime on the tennis court, he’s still embracing an active, adventurous lifestyle with the same ease and spirit that defined his game.
ROOTED IN BEAUTY
Framed by the outstretched arms of an ancient live oak, the 2024 Southern Living Idea House feels right at home in its Lowcountry setting. The cedar-shingled roof, painted lap siding and glowing windows lend a classic appeal that suggests the home has always been there. A tabby path lined with native plantings leads to a wide front porch that welcomes neighbors and friends.
A house that feels right at home
Built as the 2024 Southern Living Idea House, this Kiawah River retreat blends heritage and high performance
jSTORY BY LANCE HANLIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA LEHDE
Just a few miles down the road from Kiawah Island lies Kiawah River, a waterfront community on Johns Island, where salt marsh meets farmland and modern living bends to the rhythm of nature. Spread across 2,000 acres and 20 miles of shoreline, this one-of-a-kind neighborhood was planned with the land’s natural riches in mind, from the maritime forest and brackish ponds, to the working farm where goats, cattle, bees and wildflowers share space with rows of produce.
In 2024 Southern Living turned its attention to this remarkable stretch of Lowcountry by building its annual Idea House there. The magazine assembled a dream team of South Carolina talents, including builder Tom Dillard of Dillard-Jones Builders, designer Allison Elebash of Allison Elebash Interior Design, architect Kirsten Schoettelkotte of MHK Architecture and landscape architect Scott Parker of DesignWorks. Together they created a home that honors the land’s story while embracing its future. For Dillard, authenticity was the guiding principle. He wanted the house to look as though it had always belonged there, not only in its gabled forms and welcoming porches but also in its materials: cedar shingles, painted lap siding and copper accents that will age gracefully. The craftsmanship nods to the past, but beneath it all hums quiet innovation.
living Easy elegance
The main living space captures what life in the Lowcountry does best: connection. Oak beams stretch across the ceiling, soft linen textures catch the afternoon light, and sliding glass doors open the entire back wall to the view. The layout is open but purposeful, with distinct zones for lounging, dining and cooking that flow together naturally. Neutral tones and natural fibers keep the spotlight where it belongs: on the water and the ever-changing marsh beyond.
Conversation starter
The dining room embraces intimacy within an open plan. Centered by a handcrafted walnut pedestal table, the space invites long dinners and easy conversation. Scalloped slip-covered chairs and a bamboo chandelier lend coastal character without cliché. The large glass doors open completely, connecting the table to the screened porch so guests can enjoy the evening breeze with their meal.
ROOM WITH A VIEW Floor-to-ceiling glass blurs the line between inside and out, framing the tidal creek beyond the porch. This open space unites kitchen, dining and living areas, where light, water and conversation flow together naturally.
Center of calm
The family room side of the home proves that serenity doesn’t mean simplicity. Every layer adds comfort: the limestone fireplace, the vintage handwoven rug, the mix of art and collected objects. Subtle blue and sandy taupes create a palette inspired by the tidal flats visible just beyond the windows. Custom shelving holds books and found treasures, giving the space a lived-in, loved feel that balances refinement with ease.
A FRAMED MOMENT A limestone fireplace and custom built-ins anchor the family room side of the home, where layered textures and art bring quiet depth.
TABLE TALK A walnut dining table is the heart of the dining space, illuminated by a woven treble chandelier that echoes the marsh grass outside.
living
Honest craft
The kitchen is a showcase of craftsmanship and restraint. A plaster hood arches gracefully above a professional-grade range, framed by handmade Moroccan Zellege tiles that shimmer in the morning sun. Open shelving, white oak cabinetry and unlacquered brass fixtures age gracefully over time. A hidden pantry and built-in bar add function without cluttering the view. It’s a working kitchen designed for cooks who value beauty and practicality in equal measure.
Porch perfect
If the Lowcountry has a signature room, it’s the screened porch, and this one gets it right. Ceiling fans hum softly over a seating area designed for year-round use. Durable wicker, performance fabrics and warm decking materials make the space both comfortable and practical. From sunrise coffee to sunset cocktails, this is where the home’s rhythm slows to match the marsh. LL
Walk this way
The hallways in this home are more than passageways, they’re experiences. A handpainted mural wraps the walls in a canopy of greens and grays, creating the illusion of walking beneath live oaks. The subtle pattern softens the light and draws the outdoors in, linking every room with a feeling of continuity.
Stairway to serenity
The white oak staircase rises through a dramatic two-story window wall, giving each step a shifting perspective of the landscape. Its open design and sculptural iron railing create movement, while a porcelain wall installation inspired by barnacles adds an artful coastal touch. It’s both functional and poetic; a daily ascent framed by sunlight and shadow.
LIGHT LIFT Natural light pours through floor-to-ceiling windows along the staircase, where handcrafted details turn a simple ascent into an architectural statement.
BREATHE EASY
The screened outdoor living room blends comfort and luxury, inviting guests to linger in the shade with uninterrupted views of Abbapoola Creek.
ART IN MOTION A tree canopy mural by Rebecca Atwood Designs turns the hallway into an immersive transition space, inspired by the live oaks surrounding the property.
EVERYDAY LUXURY Earthy textures meet high performance in the kitchen, where plaster, brass and oak create a quiet sense of sophistication.
Handcrafted harmony
BRING HOME THE WARMTH AND SOPHISTICATION OF THIS POSH POWDER ROOM
STORY BY LANCE HANLIN+ PHOTO BY REBECCA LEHDE
cCrafted by Dillard-Jones Builders and a dream team of South Carolina designers and vendors, the 2024 Southern Living Idea House is a true celebration of craftsmanship and collaboration. As you walk down the hallway to the left of the front door, the home begins to reveal its personality, one rooted in nature, artistry and quiet luxury. Then you reach the powder room, and everything comes together. Small in size but rich in detail, this space captures the spirit of the home, a perfect balance of coastal ease and thoughtful design. It is earthy, elegant and distinctly Lowcountry, proof that even the most practical spaces can feel poetic.
The walls and trim, painted Sherwin-Williams Bateau Brown (SW 6033), surround you in warmth. The color feels like a deep breath: rich, grounded and unexpectedly soothing. Soft brass fixtures glow against the moody backdrop, while the creamy marble sink and rounded oak vanity bring a touch of softness. Above it all, a vintage mirror reflects the light of Regina Andrew’s Ariel sconces, whose natural brass finish flatters everything it touches.
The real showstopper is the wall treatment. Designer Allison Elebash teamed up with textile artist Rebecca Atwood to create a custom South Carolina camellia stencil, hand-painted in SherwinWilliams Carnelian (SW 7580) over Twenty2’s Wheaton grasscloth wallpaper. The result is subtle yet striking, a handcrafted nod to heritage that feels entirely fresh. It is the kind of detail that makes guests pause before they even reach for the hand towel.
Finishing touches, including the Waterworks brass faucet and white undermount sink from Bird Decorative Hardware and Bath, tie everything together, blending old-world craftsmanship with modern polish. LL
Design tip
To bring this look home, choose a warm, monochromatic palette, pair natural textures with gleaming metals, and experiment with handstenciling for a bespoke finish. The beauty lies in the human touch, which makes any space feel personal.
POWDER ROOM POISE Painted in Bateau Brown and stenciled by hand in Carnelian, this small yet striking space proves that color, brass and craftsmanship can turn even a compact room into a standout feature.
Material: Michelangelo Gold Dolomite
Builder: Randy Jeffcoat
Backyard bliss
THOUGHTFULLY DESIGNED OUTDOOR SPACES TURN THIS LOWCOUNTRY RETREAT INTO A SANCTUARY FOR EVERY SEASON
STORY BY LANCE HANLIN + PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA LEHDE
Rinse and repeat
Hidden along the side of the house, the outdoor shower is one of those small luxuries that feels indispensable once you have experienced it. With its weathered metal fixtures, rustic brick backdrop and pebblelined path, it is equal parts practical and indulgent. Whether rinsing off after a swim or cooling down after a long walk, this little corner captures the essence of coastal living: simple, refreshing and beautifully connected to the land.
Just beyond the back porch, life at the 2024 Southern Living Idea House spills gracefully outdoors. Thoughtfully crafted by Dillard-Jones Builders and a team of South Carolina vendors and designers, the home’s connection to nature extends seamlessly into its surroundings. It is a place where mornings stretch long, evenings glow golden, and the rhythm of the Lowcountry takes over completely.
Gather 'round
Anchored beneath the canopy of a centuriesold oak, the patio feels like a natural extension of the home. Deep club chairs circle a sculptural fire bowl, offering the perfect spot for sunset gatherings or quiet conversation under the stars. A mix of teak, stone and greenery brings balance to the space, while smooth pavers add a clean, coastal finish. Lush native plantings such as gardenia, rosemary and silvery vines soften the edges and fill the air with a gentle fragrance, reminding you that nature is the true designer here.
Dive in
Just steps away, the heated pool glistens like glass in the shifting light. Its clean lines and simple form keep the focus on the view of marsh grass, mossy oaks and sky. Soft chaise lounges with neutral cushions invite lingering afternoons in the sun, while a long teak dining table nearby sets the stage for easy outdoor meals. Every element feels connected, from the calming stone to the way the pool’s edge mirrors the curves of the creek beyond.
A TAILORED TOUCH
Woven shades in a subtle grid pattern from Budget Blinds of Hilton Head bring texture and warmth to this porch, filtering light while enhancing the room’s relaxed, refined palette. Ideal for sunrooms, porches, breakfast nooks and living spaces, they balance privacy with a soft, natural glow.
FRAMED IN COMFORT
Wrapped in windows and rich navy tones, this once-open porch in Palmetto Bluff now feels like a cozy retreat, where natural light, layered textures and a warm wood ceiling create an inviting space to relax in any season.
ROOM OF THE MONTH
Putting up walls
This renovation in Palmetto Bluff reimagines the classic Southern porch
STORY BY ALEA WILKINS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLI BOYD
oOn a perfect day, unwinding on the porch is quintessential to southern living. However, temperamental summers and chilly winters can relegate the best seat in the house to a spot that is less than ideal. To enjoy their outdoor views year-round, the homeowners of this Palmetto Bluff residence consulted Sarah Lettice with Kelly Caron Designs and the experts at Budget Blinds of Hilton Head Island for a total porch makeover. Once surrounded by open-air screens, the porch was transformed with the installation of permanent walls, inviting guests to gather, no matter the forecast. Though shielded from the elements, the space never feels closed off. Nine windows wrap around the exterior, welcoming in abundant sunlight and, with the click of a remote, offering gentle shade and privacy. Navy walls bring contemporary polish, especially when paired with metallic accents. At the same time, the rustic wood ceiling, layered fabrics and plush seating nod to simple, homespun charm. Combined with gingham patterns in the decorative pillows and woven shades, the space offers a more sophisticated take on cottage core that blends seamlessly with the home’s interior. Fending off sudden cold spells and hurricaneseason showers, the newly enclosed porch allows the homeowners to enjoy their lush backyard with total peace of mind. The renovation rethinks what this southern staple can be when yearround comfort is the goal. Now, porch life carries on uninterrupted. LL
Rest easy
A MUTED PALETTE AND WOODEN ACCENTS INVITE CALM, RESTFUL SLEEP
STORY BY ALEA WILKINS + PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOLLY ROSE
The moment you step into this Palmetto Bluff bedroom, a sense of calm settles in. Curated by J. Banks executive designer Lisa Whitley, the space evokes instant tranquility with its hushed palette of grays and creams, subtly warmed by wooden accents and touches of gold. Though quiet in effect, the room never feels dull. Instead, it soothes, setting the tone for peaceful nights and unhurried mornings.
this bedroom in Palmetto
its clean lines echoing the quiet geometry of the grid-patterned rug below. Soft layers of gray and cream keep the palette serene, while natural light pours in through expansive windows, blurring the line between indoors and the lush landscape just beyond.
1. TAKE A SEAT
Beside the window, a chair provides the perfect spot to take in the lush Palmetto Bluff scenery. Upholstered to match the rest of the room, its simple gray cushions and rich umber frame evoke quiet elegance.
2. LIGHT READING
For couples, an overhead reading light is the ultimate solution for both nighttime readers and light sleepers. Its small, targeted beam illuminates just enough of the bed to cozy up with a good book, while the rest of the room remains blanketed in darkness.
3. DRESSED TO IMPRESS
For easy storage, this double dresser delivers on both utility and style. Its six equally sized drawers make divvying up space simple, while its cool-toned stain and cylindrical detailing bring a modern edge to the room.
4. WITHIN ARM’S REACH
Flanking either side of the canopy bed, matching nightstands offer additional storage for books, photographs and decor. The industrial style complements the room’s contemporary finish, while the gold knobs nod to classic luxury.
5. ON THE GRID
A large area rug provides a soft landing when you rise from bed. Its grid-like pattern makes a subtle statement, separating the wooden bed frame above from the flooring below, while tying cohesively into the rest of the room.
6. CRYSTAL CLEAR
Both bold and barely there, a pair of glass table lamps offers gentle bedside lighting. Despite their height, the lamps never overwhelm, thanks to their transparent bases which balance the drama with wide, conical shades above.
FRAMED IN CALM A warm wood canopy bed anchors
Bluff,
Sit a spell
EASY WAYS TO BRING SOUTHERN COMFORT TO EVERY OUTDOOR SPACE
STORY BY ALEA WILKINS
Outdoor living and the Lowcountry go together like sweet tea with a splash of lemonade. Add a little shade, settle in and let the day slow to your pace. Whether it’s a wraparound porch, a poolside perch, a fire pit gathering spot or an outdoor fireplace glowing into the evening, being outside isn’t an occasion in the South. It’s a way of life. With a few thoughtful upgrades, Savannah Surfaces shows how to layer in comfort and style without starting from scratch. It’s the small details that turn a backyard into your favorite place to be.
Create spaces meant for gathering
The best outdoor spaces are meant to be shared, and creating one can be as simple as a little rearranging. Entertainment features like a pool or outdoor kitchen draw guests in, and a generous spread of seating invites them to sit down and stay awhile. For even greater enjoyment, thoughtful layouts, like the picnic chairs around this Savannah fire pit, encourage conversation and hours of effortless hosting. Select furniture that can withstand heat, humidity and heavy use for a stunning space built to last.
Use materials that work with the climate
Replacing worn or outdated hardscapes can instantly transform an outdoor space. When selecting a new material, take inspiration from classic Southern architecture. Natural stone, like travertine and limestone, not only looks beautiful with our coastal landscape, but it also improves comfort and functionality. Its lighter tones keep surfaces cool under the sun, allowing guests in this Beaufort backyard to walk barefoot from pool to patio without getting burned. As it ages, natural stone develops its own distinct patina, a physical reminder that some things only get better with time.
Enhance with year-round upgrades
One of the Lowcountry’s greatest pleasures is its consistently sunny skies. Get the most out of that year-round luxury with a backyard that adapts with the seasons. In summer, covered patios, pergolas and screened enclosures provide relief from insects and intense UV rays, while in winter, a feature like this Wilmington Island fireplace adds warmth and ambiance. To extend daily use, opt for lighting that seamlessly transitions from day to night, letting every moment unfold without interruption. Combining comfort and charm, the best outdoor design embraces the Lowcountry’s year-round beauty. LL
LAYERED LUXURY Sandstone pavers, tiered terraces and a raised wood deck come together to create a relaxed, refined retreat in Beaufort’s Hundred Pines neighborhood.
GATHER ’ROUND THE FIRE
Pennsylvania bluestone and old-world tabby porcelain create striking contrast in this backyard in Savannah.
FIRESIDE FOCUS
This custom brick fireplace on Wilmington Island anchors the landscape with classic southern character.
FLORAL OF THE MONTH
Coastal blue
A layered arrangement that captures May’s rhythm in motion and light
STORY BY KIM EPLEY + PHOTO BY AMIA MARCELL
The arrangement
Centered on coastal blue delphinium, this arrangement balances structure and softness. Snapdragons add depth, tweedia echoes the blue, and poppies bring movement, while green hydrangea ground the base. The result is layered yet breathable, expressive and effortlessly reflecting May at its most confident.
1. Blue delphinium
2. Red velvet snapdragons
3. Blue tweedia
4. White and yellow poppies
5. Emerald hydrangea
6. Butterfly ranunculus
Design notes
Choose what feels familiar. Comfort starts with recognition. Use blooms rooted in your surroundings.
Let it breathe. Looser arrangements feel more inviting and lived-in.
Layer with intention. Depth comes from thoughtful pairings, not excess.
Design for experience. Texture, scent and movement should draw people in, not just the eye.
May finds the farm in rhythm, with rising stems, deepening color and a clear sense of direction. This arrangement leans into that shift, anchored by coastal blue delphinium from Beaufort County, resulting in something elevated, effortless and rooted in the ease of a Southern May.
Kim Epley, artistic director at The Studio at Farmer Blue, designs with blooms grown on her 12-acre farm in Seabrook. This month she creates a study in movement and light, anchored by coastal blue delphinium and layered with snapdragons, poppies and soft supporting blooms.
COLORS OF THE MONTH
Simply Southern
HAINT BLUE, A WARM WHITE AND A DEEP BLACK DEFINE LOWCOUNTRY COMFORT
STORY BY LANCE HANLIN
In the South, comfort has a place. It is not inside. It is out here on the porch, where the air moves, the light shifts, and no one is in a hurry. This breezy palette captures that feeling with a distinctly Lowcountry signature. A soft haint blue floor and ceiling cool the heat and mirror the water and sky, while a warm white and touches of black bring balance. The look is easy, relaxed and made for slowing down.
iCOOL COMFORT Haint blue traces back to the Gullah-Geechee people, who painted porch ceilings this soft blue-green to ward off restless spirits, or “haints.” The color was believed to mimic the sky or water, discouraging spirits from crossing over and even helping deter insects. Today it remains a defining Lowcountry detail, blending cultural tradition with everyday comfort.
FLOOR + CEILING
SHERWIN-WILLIAMS RAINWASHED (SW 6211)
This soft blue-green sets the tone, wrapping the floor and beadboard ceiling in a fresh take on traditional haint blue. A satin floor finish stands up to traffic, while a matte ceiling softens the light for a signature Lowcountry glow.
Get the look ...
Start with a unified color story. Carry a soft haint blue like Rainwashed across both the floor and ceiling to create a cooling effect that softens the light and makes the space feel a few degrees calmer.
Let the architecture do the work. Warm white on columns, curved railings and trim reflects sunlight and highlights those classic Southern lines that never go out of style.
TRIM + COLUMNS
SHERWIN-WILLIAMS ALABASTER (SW 7008)
This warm white frames the view without stealing it. Used on columns, railings and millwork, it keeps the space bright and polished. A semi-gloss finish adds durability with a soft, light-catching sheen.
Add contrast where it counts. Black shutters, railing cap, a simple ceiling fan and metal seating introduce structure and keep all that softness in check.
Arrange seating for conversation. Angle rocking chairs toward each other rather than lining them up, and place a small side table between them for an easy, natural gathering spot. Let the arrangement flow down the porch, anchored by a simple bistro table that works just as well for morning coffee as it does for an evening cocktail.
ACCENTS
SHERWIN-WILLIAMS TRICORN BLACK (SW 6258)
Every soft palette needs a backbone. Used on shutters, railing caps, fans and metal furniture, this deep black adds contrast and structure while grounding the space. A satin finish offers durable depth with a subtle sheen.
Layer in a thread of deep blue. Echo the tone of the chair cushions in a ceramic vase or planter to create a subtle connection that carries through the space without overwhelming the palette.
Bring in life from the landscape. Fresh blooms and leafy greenery pull the outdoors in and keep the palette tied to the season. Most of all, let it feel natural. Southern comfort is not about getting everything just right. It is about a space that feels easy, welcoming and ready for you to sit down and stay awhile.
Bathing bliss
HOW TO CREATE A BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR BATH SETUP FOR SPA DAYS AT HOME
STORY BY MICHELE ROLDÁN-SHAW
SOAK IT IN Michele Roldán-Shaw’s outdoor bath setup in Levy features a simple galvanized tub on a wood deck, framed by greenery and a painted privacy fence, with an outdoor shower for easy rinsing. A few thoughtful details can turn an outdoor bath from simple to special. Mix textures, tuck in meaningful objects, and let your surroundings guide the look.
Choosing a tub
Imagine the luxury of a spa day combined with the healing benefits of nature, all in the comfort and privacy of your own home. That’s the magic of an outdoor bath setup. With a relatively small investment, you can create countless hours of relaxation, customized to your taste and available to you at all times. Unlike pools and hot tubs, which often provide a setting for socialization, outdoor baths are about solitude, presence, connection with nature and indulgence in DIY self-care.
Selecting a site
When deciding where to create your outdoor bath, some important considerations are privacy, views, quietude and access to water lines. You could start with a semi-enclosed space, such as a screened porch or patio. You might find a secluded corner of your garden. Perhaps you build a custom deck or even a tree house. Be practical at this stage, but also have a vision. A Google image search for “outdoor bath” will inspire you.
Vintage clawfoot tubs are a classic choice, but they can be heavy, expensive and hard to find. Japanese wooden soaking tubs are also attractive, yet pricey. If you want a more affordable way to get started, a 100-gallon galvanized stock tank from Tractor Supply will run you about $150. Simply install a valve near the bottom to drain the tub, and connect a garden hose if you want to direct the water elsewhere, such as onto nearby plants, as long as you avoid harsh soaps or chemicals.
Enhancing privacy
You might choose a location that is up against a wall or otherwise partially enclosed. For sides that need screening, the quickest route is to install prefab privacy fence panels. You could also consider building a wall out of stone, planting bamboo or creating a “green wall” by training a climbing vine along a section of cattle panel or wire fencing between two posts. If you have a good view and enough distance from neighbors, leave at least one side open to create a more spacious feeling. For indoor-outdoor spaces such as a screened porch, you could use an Asian-style folding screen to partition the area.
ELEVATED ESCAPE This upscale outdoor bath setup channels a boutique spa, where every detail feels considered. A sculptural soaking tub, layered greenery and warm wood tones create a space that feels both private and indulgent.
VINTAGE MEETS VIBE
A vintage clawfoot tub instantly elevates an outdoor bath setup, adding a touch of luxury to even the most relaxed setting. Here its classic curves and polished feet pop against lush greenery and artificial turf, striking a balance between refined style and easygoing outdoor living.
Supplying hot water
Depending on your budget, you can have plumbers connect everything so your bath setup draws hot and cold water directly from your home. A simple, cost-effective solution is to use a tankless propane water heater designed for outdoor use. I have the Camplux 16L and love it. Although this still requires some light plumbing, a handy person can set it up with minimal time and expense. You can also heat your bath the old-fashioned way by building a fire under an enameled cast iron tub. Be sure to research safe methods.
Beautifying the space
This is where you can get creative and turn the experience into a mini getaway. Love tropical islands? Bring in ferns and philodendrons. Keep tropical plants in pots so they can be overwintered indoors. Crave the grounding influence of stone?
Use flagstone or decorative pebbles on the grond. Consider garden statues, wind chimes, driftwood, tile mosaics or a string of patio lights. Choose elements that cultivate joy, calm and a sense of well-being.
Pro tips
• Install an outdoor shower for cooling off and rinsing after your bath.
• Buy a bath pillow that fits over the tub so you can rest your head comfortably.
• Patio furniture provides a place to lounge and set your things.
• Boost the relaxing benefits of your bath with Epsom salt, bath salts, essential oils, flower petals, fresh herbs or herbal sachets.
• Stay hydrated with refreshing beverages such as fruit smoothies, coconut water, cold herbal tea, homemade lemonade or cucumber water.
• Set up a basin with ice cubes and a washcloth to cool your face while enjoying a hot soak.
• Bring a good book and leave your phone inside.
• Try your bath in every season — on mild winter afternoons, crisp spring and fall mornings and under the stars in summer.
BRING THE HEAT
A Camplux 16L makes outdoor bathing easy and comfortable, delivering steady, on-demand hot water without the hassle of heating it manually. Compact and propane-powered, it’s ideal for backyard or off-grid setups.
PETAL TO SOAK
Turn backyard blooms into a spa-worthy experience
BUILD YOUR BASE
Add 1 cup Epsom salt
Add 1/2 cup sea salt
Fill tub with warm water
PICK YOUR FLOWERS
Gardenia petals for rich, Southern fragrance
Rose petals for a soft, classic soak
Lavender for relaxation
Rosemary for a fresh, herbal lift
Mint leaves for a cooling effect
Chamomile for gentle calm
Pine or bay leaves for a grounding, woodsy note
BOOST THE BENEFITS
Drizzle 1 tablespoon coconut, almond or jojoba oil
Add 1 tablespoon honey for skin-softening
Include citrus slices for brightness
A few drops of essential oil
PREP LIKE A PRO
Tear petals by hand
Lightly crush herbs to release oils
FLOWER POWER
Gardenia petals bring a rich, unmistakable fragrance that instantly elevates an outdoor soak. Scattered across warm water, they add both beauty and a calming, luxurious feel.
Use a muslin bag or cheesecloth for easy cleanup LL
When the beach goes to bed
The nightly ritual that helps Hilton Head’s sea turtles nest and hatch safely each season
STORY BY BELLE WHITFIELD
HEADING HOME
The journey is just beginning for this hatchling as it makes its way to the Atlantic Ocean. In the Lowcountry, sea turtle nesting season runs from May through October, when tiny travelers like this take their first determined steps toward the water.
tThe real magic of a turtle’s journey begins as the sky darkens, painting the sand in a soft coastal glow while the tide settles into its steady rhythm. In these quiet hours from May to October, the beach becomes something else entirely. A sanctuary. A starting line.
Before a mother turtle makes her way ashore to nest, Lynette Shields and Cynthia Hass, along with a small army of dedicated volunteers, step onto the sand as the island’s unofficial night shift. They are the Turtle Trackers. Now celebrating their 10th anniversary, this group has become a steady, reassuring presence on Hilton Head’s beaches, protecting nests, educating the community and helping ensure the next generation makes it to the water.
From small beginnings
What started as a small effort within the Women’s Club of Sea Pines has grown into a true islandwide movement. Today volunteers come from across the region, from Sun City to Bluffton to Margaritaville, all drawn by the same simple goal: take care of the beach so the turtles can do the rest.
Along the way, Turtle Trackers has become as much about education as it is about conservation. Their “turtle time” bring the mission into classrooms from Pre-K through fifth grade, while their presence at places like The Salty Dog Café and Greg Russell concerts at Harbour Town keeps the message visible for locals and visitors alike.
One of the group’s most meaningful legacies honors former president Linda Zambelli. Following her passing, the Linda Zambelli Family Scholarship was created through the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry to support students pursuing marine biology, environmental science and related fields.
“It warms my heart to know that as we age out, our legacy will continue to grow through the next generation,” Shields said.
Nesting season on Hilton Head runs from May through October, and during those months the work becomes part of the island’s rhythm. About 30 minutes before sunset, volunteers head out with rakes in hand for what they call “putting the beach to bed.”
“We make the beach flat and inviting for the mamas when they nest and later for the hatchlings on their way,” Shields said.
It sounds simple, and in many ways it is. Smooth the sand. Fill in holes. Knock down sandcastles. But those small actions can mean the difference between a successful hatch and a struggle to reach the water. A clear, level shoreline gives nesting mothers a better place to lay and hatchlings a better chance to survive.
Moments that stay with you
Ask anyone involved why they keep coming back, and eventually you will hear a story like this one. Shields recalls a night near beach marker 39 after a successful nest had been laid two months earlier. Under a full moon, the group gathered quietly as the sand began to shift.
“It looks like a bowling ball has been dropped in the middle of the nest,” she said. “There’s so much movement under the sand because they all come out at once.”
Then, suddenly, they are everywhere. Dozens of tiny turtles, instinct taking over, moving toward the glow of the ocean.
“It was magical,” she said. “A memory that will last a lifetime.”
A SOUND FUTURE
Photo by Miles Sanders
A SLICE OF AWARENESS Spreading awareness in creative ways, volunteers partnered with Giuseppe’s Pizza to distribute more than 25,000 flyers across the island.
WHERE THE SAND TELLS THE STORY Captured in the early morning, these delicate tracks mark the path of a nesting sea turtle from the night before. Before the shoreline fills with footprints, they offer a brief, untouched glimpse into a quiet and powerful moment that often goes unseen.
A simple mission, a real impact
At its core, Turtle Trackers operates on a belief that feels very Lowcountry. If people understand why something matters, they will take care of it.
“I’ve had people take my rake and start filling in holes themselves,” Hass said.
Their message is as straightforward as it gets. Clean up after yourself. Better yet, pick up a little extra. With trash cans at every beach access, it is an easy habit that carries real weight.
Because the truth is, the biggest threat to sea turtles is not the tide or the weather. It is us. Plastic in the ocean is often mistaken for jellyfish, one of their food sources, turning everyday waste into a serious danger.
As another nesting season approaches, the mission remains the same. Keep the beaches clean. Keep the lights low. Keep spreading the word. Do that, and when the sun goes down and the sand cools, the turtles will keep coming back.
BEACHSIDE BEGINNINGS As the season approaches, volunteers gather for hands-on training, learning how to properly prepare the
and protect future hatchlings.
HOW TO HELP SEA TURTLES
Small actions make a big difference during nesting season. From May through October, a few simple habits can help protect sea turtles and give hatchlings a better shot at reaching the water.
Get involved: Join Turtle Trackers as a volunteer or Beach Ambassador. Walk the shoreline, share what you know, and play a direct role in protecting nests.
Leave no trace: Before you head home, fill in holes, knock down sandcastles, and take everything with you. A smooth, clear beach gives hatchlings a straight path to the ocean.
Keep it dark: Turn off or shield outdoor lights at oceanfront homes and rentals. Artificial light can confuse hatchlings and send them in the wrong direction.
If you see turtles: Give them space. Stay quiet, keep your distance and skip the flash photography. Let nature take the lead.
Learn more: Visit the Turtle Trackers’ website (turtletrackershhi.org), the Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island website (seaturtlepatrolhhi.org) or local conservation groups to find volunteer opportunities and stay connected throughout the season.
VOICES BEHIND THE MISSION With the sun setting along the coast, Cynthia Hass and Lynette Shields work together in Turtle Trackers gear to “put the beach to bed,” preparing the shoreline for nesting sea turtles by smoothing the sand and clearing debris.
shoreline
FREQUENT FLYER
Now you hear it, now you don’t
THE ORCHARD ORIOLE MAKES
A BRIEF
STOP IN THE LOWCOUNTRY BEFORE
HEADING
STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM
SOUTH
AGAIN
LISTEN UP
Scan this QR code to hear the soft, whistled call of the orchard oriole.
BURNISHED IN BLOOM Burnt orange and black, the male orchard oriole trades flash for richness, with a deep chestnut body, jet-black head and throat and a sleek dark tail. Look for him in the Lowcountry each May through early summer, moving quietly through treetops along marsh edges, rivers and open woodlands.
mMove over, Baltimore. There’s a quieter oriole in town, and if you blink, you’ll miss it.
The orchard oriole is the smallest member of the blackbird family in the United States, but it carries itself with a kind of understated confidence. The male trades the expected blaze of orange for a deeper chestnut-russet paired with black, a more tailored look that fits its low-profile personality. These birds do not announce themselves. They move through treetops along rivers, marsh edges and open woodlands, offering a soft, whistled song that rewards those who slow down enough to hear it.
Even their appearance keeps you guessing. Males and females look so different, they could pass for separate species, with females dressed in muted yellow-green and no black at all. It is all part of the orchard oriole’s quiet approach. Nothing flashy. Nothing forced.
That easygoing nature extends to how they live. Orchard orioles are surprisingly social, often nesting near other species with very little drama. You might find them sharing space with kingbirds, robins or sparrows, sometimes even building several nests in the same tree. They are not territorial in the usual sense. They seem to understand that good habitat is better than a good argument. Nesting near more aggressive birds also has its perks, especially when those neighbors are willing to chase off predators.
For all their charm, orchard orioles do not stay long. They arrive in May, raise a single brood and begin heading back toward Central and South America by July. It is one of the shortest stays of any migratory bird in the Lowcountry; more of a cameo than a season. While they are here, they make it count. Spring and early summer are all about insects and spiders, fueling nesting and feeding their young. Later, fruit and nectar take center stage, and orchard orioles shift into an unexpected role as pollinators. Sort of. With their slender bills, they sometimes pierce flowers at the base to sip nectar without touching the pollen, skipping the work entirely. Efficient or a little sneaky? Depends on your perspective.
They will also stop by hummingbird feeders, sample ripe fruit and, if you are lucky, hang around just long enough to remind you that not all of the Lowcountry’s wild moments are loud. Some are quiet. And gone before you know they were there. LL
Where to find them
“Orchard orioles are one of the most beautiful birds in the bird world. While their cousins, the Baltimore orioles, get all the attention with their blazing orange feathers, orchard orioles are more understated, with feathers of deep burnt orange and a shy personality. As the smallest oriole in North America, they are sexually dimorphic, meaning the females and males do not look anything alike. Although primarily insectivores, orchard orioles eagerly visit backyard feeders for orange halves, grape jelly and nectar during the breeding season. They wield a sharp, slender bill to pierce the base of a flower, ‘robbing’ the nectar from the side rather than entering to pollinate it. The orchard oriole is a shy bird that forages quietly through the upper canopy for insects. Sometimes you will not even know they are there. They arrive late and depart early, marking one of the shortest stays of any migratory bird."
– Mary Alice Tartler, Audubon master birder
Essentials
Get everything you need for backyard birding at Wild Birds Unlimited in the Festival Centre at Indigo Park on Hilton Head Island.
FOOD & ACCESSORIES
• Hummingbird & oriole nectar
• Mealworms
• Oriole feeder
• Nectar bottle
• Oranges, grapes and other juicy fruits
• Jelly, sugar water and nectar
• Bark Butter, Bark Butter Bits and suet with fruit
SOFT IN THE SPOTLIGHT Dressed in gentle yellow-green with soft gray wings, the female orchard oriole keeps a lower profile than her bold male counterpart. Orchard oriole populations have declined by about 46 percent since 1966.
WILDLIFE WONDER
A life unseen
RARELY SPOTTED BUT DEEPLY ESSENTIAL, THE MINK MOVES THROUGH THE LOWCOUNTRY MOSTLY UNNOTICED
STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM + PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEANNE PADDISON
tThey move like shadows with purpose. One second, nothing. The next, a ripple along the marsh edge, a flash of dark fur, gone again before your brain catches up. Mink are out there, whether you see them or not. Sleek, muscular and built for efficiency, these small predators are among the Lowcountry’s most elusive residents. With glossy brown coats, short legs and long, flexible bodies, they slip through tidal creeks, spartina grass and wooded banks with ease. Most people never spot one. That does not mean they are not watching the marsh unfold in real time, playing their part in keeping it balanced.
Marshland hunters
Oscar is shown sleeping as a baby and as a growing kit, enjoying the full amenities of Savannah Wildlife Rescue Center until his release date.
Mink may be small, but they are serious hunters. Fish make up much of their diet, along with crabs, shrimp and the occasional unlucky rodent. They are strong swimmers, capable of diving deep and covering surprisingly long distances underwater. Around here they have learned to take advantage of dolphin strand feeding, darting in to grab fish left behind on the flats. Unlike their mostly nocturnal relatives inland, Lowcountry mink are often active during the day. Catching a glimpse of one moving along a creek bank or slipping between oyster mounds feels like being let in on a secret. They are not pests. They are part of the ecosystem.
A little trouble, a lot of personality
At Savannah Wildlife Rescue Center, Jeanne Paddison has seen that up close. The first mink she cared for, a tiny orphan named Ricky, arrived with his umbilical cord still attached.
“He was our first baby mink at SWRC, and what a mischievous one he was,” she says. “Minutes before his adventure into the wild, he was full of curiosity and energy.”
BLINK, AND YOU’LL MISS IT Rarely seen but right at home in the Lowcountry, mink move quietly through marsh grass and creek edges, living among us whether we notice them or not.
GROWING BOY
A CLOSER LOOK
A close look reveals the telltale white patch under the chin, a key feature that distinguishes a mink from an otter.
Mink are intelligent, intense and endlessly curious. They climb, dive, explore and test everything around them. Jeanne points out a small but helpful detail for identification. Look for the white patch under the chin, a subtle mark that separates a mink from an otter at a glance. Up close, they are captivating. In the wild, they are nearly invisible.
Coexisting with a predator
Conflicts with mink tend to happen when humans forget one simple truth. Chickens, ducks and small pets look a lot like dinner.
“In my chicken coop, a mink can cause damage, but that’s the responsibility of the person who owns the chickens,” Jeanne says. “Protect them with a coop like Fort Knox, and you can coexist with nature while keeping local predators safe.”
Her message is straightforward. Secure what needs protecting. Do not blame the animal for doing exactly what it was built to do. Mink are native to this landscape. They belong in the marsh as much as the oysters, the egrets and the tides themselves.
Small, wild and essential
Mink face growing pressure from habitat loss, water pollution and development. Regulated trapping still exists in South Carolina, though most fur on the global market now comes from farms. Even so, their biggest challenge is often us. Shrinking habitat and fragmented waterways make survival harder for a species that depends on access to both land and water. They breed from January through March, raising a single litter each year. Young mink stay with their mother into the fall, learning how to hunt and navigate the marsh. It is a critical window, and one where wildlife rehabilitators often step in to give orphaned kits a second chance. Spotting a mink is rare. Appreciating one is rarer still. They are not just a flicker along the shoreline. They are proof that the Lowcountry is still, in all the best ways, a little bit wild. LL
May
A brief, beautiful window when everything feels just right
mMay might be the Lowcountry’s best month, though locals rarely say it out loud. Tucked between the spring break and Heritage crowds of early spring and the rush of summer, it’s when everything feels just right. Warm, breezy days invite bike rides, wildlife-filled wanders and that first long-awaited dip in the ocean. With guidance from the 2026 Old Farmer’s Almanac and Grow Great Vegetables South Carolina, this month’s almanac helps you make the most of nature’s peak.
Weather predictions
May brings steady warmth, longer stretches of sun and the first real taste of humidity, balanced by passing showers.
Average temperature: 72 degrees
Rainfall: 5 inches (about 1 inch above average)
FORECAST BY WEEK
May 1-10: Scattered thunderstorms, then sunny and cooler
May 11-14: Rainy and cool
May 15-18: Sunny and warming
May 19-31: Hot with scattered afternoon storms
Astronomical events
Clear skies and warming nights make May ideal for stargazing.
May 1: Full “Flower Moon,” named for the season’s peak blooms
May 2: Asteroid Vesta will be at its brightest and most visible of the year
May 6-7: Eta Aquariid meteor shower peaks, producing fast-moving meteors from debris left by Halley's comet
May 16: The first of two Super New Moons in 2026, where the moon is closest to Earth
May 31: Blue moon, the second full moon of the month, a rare break from the usual lunar cycle
Tides & currents
Life here follows the water. Scan this QR code for the latest tide and current predictions from NOAA, and plan your days accordingly.
In the garden
Night & day
Daylight takes center stage this month, with evenings that seem to stretch forever.
Sunrise: 6:17-6:36 a.m.
Sunset: 8:03-8:24 p.m.
May is go-time in the Lowcountry garden. Warm soil and long days mean everything grows fast, including what you didn’t plant.
PREP Plan ahead for fall crops, stake or cage tomatoes and peppers, weed weekly, and protect ripening blueberries with netting.
HARVEST Expect a generous mix of late spring and early summer produce, including asparagus, beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, chard, cherries, collards, garlic scapes, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, peas, radishes, rhubarb, scallions, spinach, squash, strawberries, turnips and zucchini.
Best days
Based on lunar phases, these are May’s most favorable days for select activities:
Fishing: May 1, 16-31
Perm your hair (embrace the humidity): May 8, 10
Travel: May 21, 22
Weeding: May 13, 14
Tacos and margaritas: May 5
Brunch with mom: May 10
Host a cookout: May 25
THE SCENT OF SPRING Confederate jasmine begins to bloom in mid-April and lasts through early June, with May delivering its most fragrant show. At peak, the vines are blanketed in white, pinwheel-shaped flowers that perfume the air, drifting across local porches, railings and garden paths.
A gardener’s guide to Mother’s Day gifts and sprucing up your iced tea
A GIFT THAT GROWS Instead of flowers that fade in a few days, consider giving something she can plant and enjoy all season long. Zinnias like this bring lasting color and attract butterflies, turning a simple gift into a living reminder of your love.
[LL] As the weather heats up, how can I protect my garden?
[SB] The best way to get ahead of the heat is to ensure all your irrigation systems are working and to start mulching early. Mulching helps protect plants by keeping the soil evenly moist. By midsummer you won’t want to be working in the garden, so it’s best to get it done now. You can also side-dress warmweather vegetables like tomatoes, peppers and eggplants with compost. Sprinkle it at the drip line so when it rains, that organic matter works in and helps retain moisture.
MULCH MATTERS
In the Lowcountry’s heat and humidity, organic mulches are your best friend. Pine straw, shredded hardwood and bark blends all work well, helping soil hold moisture while still allowing it to breathe.
f
STORY BY ALEA WILKINS AND SUZANNE BARTON
Florals never feel more present than at this time of year. Gardens burst with vibrant blooms, and supermarkets stock their shelves with the sweetest Mother’s Day arrangements. To embrace all of the season’s beauty, certified professional horticulturist and manager of The Green Thumb, Suzanne Barton, shares how she gets ahead on summer gardening, her favorite herbs to add to iced tea and the perfect present for Mom.
[LOCAL Life] What florals do you recommend for Mother’s Day? [Suzanne Barton] Bouquets are lovely, but for a gift that will last, I suggest a flower she can plant in her own garden. Annuals like zinnias attract butterflies, so she can enjoy beautiful blooms and the presence of wildlife. If you’re struggling to choose, consider where she would plant it: how much space she has and how much sunlight the area receives. From there, it’s all about what will make her smile.
BRIGHT AND CALMING Lemon balm adds a gentle citrus note to iced tea and is known for its soothing, stress-relieving qualities. Easy to grow and quick to spread, it thrives in the Lowcountry and keeps your glass and garden full all season.
[LL] How can I dress up my iced tea?
[SB] You can grow all sorts of herbs for your iced tea, and they’re wonderfully lowmaintenance. Planting in the ground is best, but they can also thrive in containers if they have room to grow. Basil, mint and lemon balm have delicate leaves that don’t hold much water. If a storm is approaching, bring in any stalks you plan to use, but don’t remove more than a third of the plant at a time, and never place them in the fridge. This is the biggest mistake I see gardeners make. Herbs don’t like cold temperatures. Instead, treat them like cut flowers. Place the stems in a glass of water on the counter, and they’ll be ready to add to your favorite summer drinks.
SWEET AS A LILY
May’s birth flower promises brighter days ahead. With petite blooms that cascade in gentle waves, lily of the valley symbolizes the end of winter and a return to happiness. In bouquets or arrangements, its sweet floral scent freshens the air as spring gives way to summer, serving as a gentle reminder that the best is yet to come. LL
Summer’s warm-up
Smart seasonal tips from Lowcountry Gardening, a trusted guide written and produced by the Lowcountry Master Gardener Association
Wait until the foliage of spring-flowering bulbs has died completely before removing it. The green foliage nourishes the bulbs for next season’s growth. Mark the area before cutting so you don’t disturb dormant bulbs.
Now that nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees, set out warm-season vegetable plants such as tomatoes, peppers and eggplant.
Nurseries and garden centers will tempt you with a wide variety of plants. Do your homework to ensure you’re choosing the right plants for the right places.
Experiment with annuals for containers, but be cautious of pre-planted arrangements. Many are already rootbound and difficult to keep watered. Creating your own containers is a fun and rewarding process. Think thrillers, fillers and spillers.
Excerpted from Lowcountry Gardening, written and published by the Lowcountry Master Gardener Association. Pick up a copy of this handy guide for $5 at The Greenery, Bruno Landscape & Nursery, The Green Thumb or the Master Gardener booth at the Bluffton and Port Royal farmers markets. For more information, visit LowcountryMGA.org
. INSTALL . MAINTAIN . REJUVENATE
We have transitioned to cutting-edge top of the line, environmentally responsible electric landscaping equipment. This allows us to provide a quieter outdoor experience for the community.
Request a landscaping quote or schedule a lawn care appointment today. Our lawn care experts and landscapers are more than happy to help.
t Golden oldies
SIMPLE WAYS TO KEEP YOUR SENIOR PET COMFORTABLE, CONFIDENT AND CARED FOR
STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM
There’s a certain sweetness that comes with age. The zoomies slow, the naps get longer, and the bond deepens in ways that only time can create. Senior pets may move at a gentler pace, but what they lose in speed, they make up for in soul. As their needs change, so does the way we care for them. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can help your dog or cat stay comfortable, confident and surrounded by the love they’ve always given so freely.
SWEET GOOFBALL
Olga, 9, is a gentle mixed breed with Renegade Paws Rescue. She lives for soft beds, quiet afternoons and easygoing companionship with both people and smaller pups.
Rest easy, sleep better
Gone are the days of curling up just anywhere. Aging joints need support, and comfort becomes essential. Orthopedic or memory foam beds cushion pressure points, while heated options soothe stiffness and add a layer of cozy. Place beds in their favorite rooms so they can stay close to the action, even while they rest.
Smooth moves, soft landings
What used to be effortless can now feel like an obstacle course. Jumping, climbing and even walking across slick floors may cause hesitation. Rugs for traction, ramps or pet stairs and elevated bowls can restore confidence and independence. Keeping everything within easy reach helps your pet move through the day with less strain.
Steady spaces, safe steps
Changes in vision, hearing and cognition can make familiar spaces feel confusing. Keep furniture in place, add nightlights for visibility, and block off tricky areas like stairs if needed. A quiet retreat away from household noise can also provide comfort. When the world feels uncertain, consistency becomes everything.
Warm in winter, cool in summer
Older pets are more sensitive to temperature swings. Thinner fur and slower circulation make it harder to regulate body heat. In cooler months, offer blankets, sweaters or heated beds. In warmer weather, make sure there’s shade, cool surfaces and plenty of fresh water. A comfortable home environment goes a long way.
TINY TREASURE
Quinn, a senior Chihuahua with Noah’s Ark Rescue, may be small, but she’s full of confidence, affection and happiest tucked into your lap or trotting by your side.
Softer suppers, smarter nutrition
Aging pets often need fewer calories but more digestible meals. Wet food or softened kibble can be easier on aging teeth, especially if dental issues are present. Joint supplements, fish oils or vet-recommended medications can help manage stiffness and inflammation. Shallow bowls and extra water stations make mealtime easier from start to finish.
Gentle grooming, extra grace
Grooming gets harder with age, which means your help matters more than ever. Regular brushing prevents matting, while frequent nail trims keep them comfortable on their feet. These moments are also a chance to check for changes and spend a little extra time together. It’s care, but it’s also connection.
Stay ahead, stay healthy
Senior pets benefit from more frequent veterinary care. Twice-yearly visits can catch issues like arthritis, kidney disease or dental problems early. Preventive care, especially dental, can make a big difference in comfort and quality of life. A proactive approach keeps them feeling their best longer.
Slow strolls, strong bodies
Even if they’ve slowed down, movement still matters. Short walks, gentle play or even a swim can help maintain muscle tone, support joints and lift spirits. The key is moderation. Let your pet set the pace, and pay attention to when they’re ready to rest.
Sharp minds, simple games
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Aging pets can experience cognitive decline, but simple games, puzzle feeders and short training sessions can help keep their minds engaged. A consistent routine and calm interaction offer reassurance and reduce anxiety.
Small shifts, big comfort
As abilities change, small adjustments can make a big impact. Nightlights help pets with vision loss, while hand signals can support those with hearing loss. More frequent bathroom breaks, shorter outings and predictable routines all help reduce stress. Familiarity becomes their anchor.
Patience, presence, plenty of love
Above all, senior pets need patience. They may take a little longer, need a little more help or develop new quirks, but their loyalty never fades. Gentle affection, calm reassurance and simply being there offer the greatest comfort. This stage of life may slow things down, but it also deepens everything that matters. It’s a time to reflect on the years you’ve shared and to return, in full, the unconditional love your pet has always given.
Why senior pets steal hearts
There’s a quiet magic to senior pets. While puppies and kittens get the spotlight, older animals offer something deeper: companionship shaped by time, trust and gratitude. Most are already house-trained, have established personalities and are long past the chaos of youth. What they want is simple. Comfort. Consistency. Someone to share their days with. Adopting a senior pet is also one of the most meaningful ways to make a difference. They are often overlooked in shelters, yet they are among the most loyal companions you’ll ever meet. They settle in quickly, bond deeply and seem to understand they’ve been given a second chance. If you’re looking for a calmer, more predictable companion and the chance to truly change a life, a senior pet might just be the perfect fit. LL
LOYAL COMPANION Sullivan, 11, a Retriever mix with One Love Animal Rescue, is a laid-back charmer who loves car rides, cozy nights and squeaky toys.
HOT DOG Meritt, 12, a Dachshund mix at Hilton Head Humane, is a wiggly, happy-go-lucky little guy always ready for adventure or a warm lap.
THE CAT’S MEOW Stevie Whiskers, 10, a visually impaired tabby at Palmetto Animal League, forms fast bonds and brings warmth, trust and unwavering companionship.
IN THE BLACK Tenille, 9, a domestic shorthair with Salty Paws of the Lowcountry, is shy at first but blossoms into a deeply loyal companion in a quiet home.
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SOUTHERN STYLE
From dock to dinner
FRESH, FEMININE LOOKS INSPIRED BY THE EASE OF A SOUTHERN SPRING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
tLISA STAFF STYLED
BY
BAILEY GILLIAM
There’s a rhythm to Southern style. Polished, never fussy. Refined, yet easy. In the Lowcountry, that means airy fabrics that catch the breeze, soft coastal hues and thoughtful details that feel just as at home on the dock as they do at dinner. Photographed along the water at a private dock in Point Comfort, this month’s looks strike that balance. Feminine silhouettes meet everyday function, and each outfit carries the quiet confidence that defines dressing in the South. Our models, all part of the team at Couzens Dental, bring it to life with a natural grace and bright, effortless smiles, proof that good style, like great care, is all about attention to detail and a polished finish.
Sweet as tea
With the marsh glowing in soft afternoon light, Dr. Susan Couzens and Jennie Gregus of Bluffton strike that perfect balance of relaxed and refined, a quiet toast to spring in the Lowcountry. Susan stands with effortless poise in a flowing pink-and-white floral dress from Jean-Pierre Klifa, its airy silhouette softened by a sheer wrap that moves with the breeze. Nearby, Jennie lounges in woven wicker in a look from Evelyn & Arthur, pairing a vibrant pink blouse with tailored white pants in a subtle seashell print. Bright heels and a long necklace add a confident finish. Together the scene feels unmistakably Southern, polished, easy and perfectly at home by the water.
Tickled pink
With the marsh and Broad Creek stretching quietly behind her, Bluffton’s Jennifer Tevepaugh steps into a look that feels both playful and poised. Her pink dress from Currents, patterned with palms and subtle motifs, brings a fresh, coastal charm. The puffed sleeves and tailored fit add a hint of preppy structure, while pearl accents keep things timeless. Soft, floral-detailed heels finish the look with a light touch, echoing the easy femininity of the setting. It is the kind of outfit that belongs here, where style feels natural, colors reflect the landscape, and getting dressed is part of the pleasure of the day.
SOUTHERN TIDE SIGNATURE STORE
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
Adjacent to the Neptune Statue
17 Harbourside Ln, Suite A & B, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
MON-SAT 10AM - 9PM | SUN 10AM - 6PM
888-974-0519 | southerntidehiltonhead.com
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BEAUTY Where beauty meets technology
tThe conversation around aging is shifting. Today’s most effective treatments go beyond surface-level fixes, focusing instead on regeneration, collagen stimulation and long-term skin health. Designed to work with the body’s natural processes, these innovations deliver results that feel subtle, refreshed and authentically you.
Lift and tighten
At Coastal Skin Studio Ultherapy PRIME brings next-level precision to non-invasive lifting. Using focused ultrasound energy, this FDA-cleared treatment stimulates collagen and elastin deep within the skin to lift and firm areas like the brow, chin and neck. With no downtime and results that develop naturally over time, it’s a go-to for those seeking a noticeable refresh without surgery.
No-surgery lift
Totality Med Spa introduces Ellacor, a breakthrough treatment that tightens and rejuvenates skin without lasers or heat. Through innovative micro-coring technology, tiny columns of skin are removed to activate the body’s natural healing response and boost collagen production. The result is smoother, firmer skin, with minimal downtime and improvements that continue to build.
Next-generation regeneration
At MedSpa by Symbiosis Health, the focus is true skin renewal. Hybrid Laser Skin Regeneration with Biologic Enhancement pairs advanced laser technology with biologic stimulation to improve tone, texture and collagen production in a single, customized treatment. By working at a cellular level, it delivers healthier, more resilient skin, with less downtime and longer-lasting results.
Light therapy glow
At Beaufort Eye Center, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy offers a dual benefit. Often used to treat dry eye, it also acts as a gentle photo-facial, improving tone and texture while targeting sun damage, redness and uneven pigmentation. With a series of treatments, skin appears clearer, brighter and more even, all with minimal disruption to your routine.
Services and Treatments include:
Lymphatic Therapy
Myofascial Therapy
Therapeutic Massage Golf Massage • Fascia Facial
Kathryne McCracken offers therapies based on the latest research in Innovative Aging, making her the Lowcountry’s premier anti-aging Licensed Massage Therapist.
“I chose to pursue a graduate degree in “Innovative Aging” because in my many years of experience, I have seen so many of my clients turn back the hands of time through therapeutic bodywork treatments. Not only do they look and feel younger, but they can get back to enjoying their favorite activities and sports”.
ABOUT KATHRYNE MCCRACKEN
Kathryne is a science-based Licensed Massage Therapist and LANA Certified Lymphedema Therapist with a Graduate Certificate from the University of Florida School of Medicine in Innovative Aging. The focus of Kathryne's study was the causes and effects of premature aging, and the focus of her work is the prevention and reversal of said effects.
style GET THE LOOK
Effortlessly Southern
Southern style never feels forced. It’s easy, a little polished and always comfortable in its own skin. This look, pulled from local boutiques, hits that sweet spot: feminine, relaxed and ready to carry you from a slow morning to a last-minute dinner by the water.
Softly tied
This Spartina 449 blouse does the heavy lifting without looking like it tried. Breezy sleeves, a delicate blue floral and subtle bow details give it a soft, romantic feel with just enough personality to stand out.
Step in comfort
These Taos sandals from Outside Hilton Head are built for real life. Supportive enough for all-day wear, polished enough to hold their own, they ground the look without slowing it down.
Shades of charm
Pink sunglasses from Eyeland Optique add the finishing touch. A hint of color, a bit of attitude and just enough polish to pull everything together without overthinking it.
Easy denim
A great pair of jeans should feel like you’ve owned them forever. This wide-leg pair from Maggie & Me brings that relaxed, broken-in ease while balancing the softness of the top. Comfortable, flattering and quietly cool.
FRESH FINDS
Southern gentleman
Southern menswear doesn’t chase trends; it lets them come around if they’re worth it. Built on breathable layers, relaxed tailoring and a few well-chosen details, the look is equal parts ease and intention. You look put together, even if you just threw it on five minutes ago. These local finds do exactly that, carrying you from daytime plans to whatever the evening holds.
Classic stripes
Some shirts earn permanent status. This blue-striped Oxford from Palmettoes is one of them. Crisp, cool and quietly reliable, it’s the kind of piece that works hard without ever looking like it’s trying.
Little gents
Style starts early, and this plaid button-down from Island Child proves it. Soft, breathable and ready for anything, it’s polished enough for family photos and durable enough for everything that happens right after.
An Elevated Way to Renew
At Moor Spa Hilton Head, wellness is rooted in nature, guided by intention, and delivered with quiet sophistication.
Signature finish
Here’s where things get interesting. A dark brown felt hat from Brims on the Bluff, finished with a feather quill, adds just enough personality to separate you from the pack. Not loud, not subtle, just right.
Light layering
A sport coat in the South should never feel like a commitment. This gingham soft jacket from John Bayley Clothier keeps things light, literally. The wool, silk and linen blend breathes easy, while the relaxed cut delivers polish without the pressure. Toss it on, and suddenly everything else steps up its game.
As Hilton Head’s only holistic spa, each experience is designed to restore balance – mind, body, and skin.
Signature Experiences Include:
• Customized, results-driven facials using natural, highperformance skincare
• Halotherapy and holistic wellness offerings that calm the nervous system
• Therapeutic and relaxation massage tailored to how your body truly feels
The takeaway? Dress like you’ve got somewhere to be, even if it’s just the porch. LL
• European-inspired body rituals featuring detoxifying Moor Mud
• Curated spa journeys and private memberships for those who value intentional self-care
shopping Love Local
TWO
FOR TEA
Made from linen, this SnowbellIndigo tea towel is handcrafted by European artisans and features a delicate floral design. Available at Marsh on the May
Available
DIAMONDS ARE A MOM'S BEST FRIEND
Give Mom something both beautiful and practical this Mother’s Day with a jewelry armoire featuring a stylish butterfly pattern.
Available at Forsythe Jewelers
ON HER GAME
This Mahjong Birdie Tile Set from Oh My Mahjong makes game night with Mom even more fun.
at Gifted
A MOTHER'S LOVE
Show Mom just how special she is this Mother’s Day with a collection of thoughtful finds she’s sure to love.
LOVE IS IN THE AIR
Brighten any room with this pretty floral diffuser. Its blue-and-white design makes it a perfect fit for any coastal home.
Available at J. Banks Design
BEST BUDS
Celebrate Mom this Mother’s Day with a thoughtful touch. Le Cookery is offering a complimentary floral arrangement with the purchase of a Vietri Hibiscus Vase.
Available at Le Cookery
I'VE BEEN FRAMED
These mother-of-pearl frames, available in blue and pink, offer a beautiful way to showcase the moments that matter most in Mom’s life.
Available at Pyramids
PEACHY KEEN
Serve up something sweet this Mother’s Day with a mango wood bowl featuring a playful hand-painted interior of peaches, blueberries and leafy greens.
Available at Hilton Head Oils and Balsamics
Always be on Island time with this delightful Palmetto pendant. South Carolina Palm & Moon Pendant
With over 75 years of combined experience in the jewelry
5-MINUTE HISTORY
Holding the line
Fort Frederick’s rise, retreat and lasting mark on the Lowcountry frontier
STORY BY RICHARD THOMAS
Richard Thomas is an owner and guide for Hilton Head History Tours and is the author of Backwater Frontier: Beaufort Country, at the Forefront of American History.
iTABBY DEFENSE This illustration captures Fort Frederick at sunset in the 1730s, its low tabby walls and water-facing cannons guarding the edge of Port Royal Sound. Today, the site stands as South Carolina’s oldest surviving tabby fort and Beaufort County’s earliest known tabby structure. Visitors can explore the grounds, relax under a covered pavilion and read interpretive signage at 601 Old Fort Road in Port
In the years leading up to the expulsion of the Yemassee from South Carolina, the incidence of Spanish and Indian raiding parties and privateer attacks in the Beaufort area had reached alarming levels. Calls from settlers to the Lords Proprietors for greater protection, and from the Lords to the Crown, finally took effect in 1731 with the establishment of a British Army garrison on Port Royal Island. A fort was soon constructed of tabby,
measuring 75 by 125 feet, with walls five feet high and five feet thick. Built to house the garrison and anchor the area’s defenses, it was named Fort Prince Frederick. It included interior barracks and a powder magazine, a bastion on the southwest corner, and a battery of cannon along the eastern, waterfacing wall.
As the southernmost fort in the thirteen colonies, it was considered of immense
open daily from dawn to dusk.
strategic value. In 1733, the expedition led by James Oglethorpe arrived at the fort on its way to establish the colony of Georgia. The settlers stayed in the barracks while scouting the Savannah River for a suitable site, ultimately founding the city of Savannah, Georgia’s first city. The fort was completed in 1735 with assistance from Beaufort merchants, whose financial support helped bring the project to completion.
Royal,
Shifting frontiers
The following year, Colonel John “Tuscarora Jack” Barnwell, Chief of Indian Affairs and commander of the colony’s southern defenses, traveled to England to lobby Parliament for funds to improve fortifications along the Southern frontier. Barnwell was very successful, and by 1737, blockhouses and scout boat guard stations were being built and manned at strategic points along the waterways of the Beaufort District.
When Georgia was established as a colony, the British constructed additional forts farther south. Palisaded forts King George and McAllister at Savannah, along with tabby Fort Frederica, built in 1736, shifted the frontier southward. As a result, the Beaufort District became more secure, and the garrison at Fort Frederick was transferred in 1737 to Fort Frederica on St. Simons Island to protect the port of Brunswick. With its military importance diminished, Fort Frederick fell into disuse and was intermittently used as a base for scout boat and militia operations.
From stronghold to historic site
By the time of the French and Indian War, Fort Frederick had deteriorated significantly and was no longer effective as a base for British military operations against potential French or Spanish threats, or the increasing activity of privateers taking advantage of regional unrest. In response, and in addition to increased British Navy patrols, tabby Fort Lyttleton was constructed circa 1755 closer to town in a more defensible harbor position. It was occupied by two companies of British regulars and supported by a small complement of warships moored at the Port Royal docks.
Inactive as a primary military installation during the Revolutionary War, Fort Frederick was occupied at various times by both Loyalist and Patriot forces, though it never played a central role in any major engagement. Later, during the American Civil War, the site — then owned by Frederick Joiner Smith — became Camp Saxton, home to the First South Carolina Regiment of Colored Troops. It is recorded as one of the first places in the South where the Emancipation Proclamation was publicly read.
Today, the remains of Fort Frederick stand exposed, shaped by tidal erosion and time. They are the vestiges of the oldest tabby fortification in South Carolina and are preserved within the Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve in Port Royal, part of the Beaufort County park system. LL
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Robert Daughters (NM/AZ, 1929-2013), Mountainous Landscape, Oil on Canvas, $6,000-8,000 John Wesley (NY/CA, b. 1928),
Carol Iglesias: Nature in vibrant colors and imagination
STORY BY CAROLYN MALES
wWe’re not seeing the same thing
It’s midmorning on a not-quite-spring day, and plein-air artist Carol Iglesias and I have been walking the pathway in Shelter Cove Community Park, seeking out the most interesting part of the waterway for her to paint. Meanwhile, I’m looking through a “photographer’s lens,” disappointed in the flat light over this stretch of Broad Creek and the muted colors of the marsh.
But Iglesias, who is viewing the panorama spread out before us with different eyes, is delighted with what she sees. “I'm looking at what captures my eye. What excites me at this moment.” She’s discovered an irregular puzzle piece of water breaking through the sea of grass. “That may not be there later in the day,” she points out, pleased with the opportunity to capture this transitory moment.
What’s more, where I see browns and dull grays, she’s noting shades of emerald greens, burgundies and yellows in the cordgrass, and turquoise and purples in that irregular pool of water. We both look up. Overhead, a few wisps of clouds drift in a washed-out pale sky. Iglesias considers the possibilities. As the morning goes on, those wisps may billow out as the sky darkens into a more intense blue.
“I’ve been a plein-air painter for 20 years and I tell my students, plein-air painting is the best teacher in the world because you are studying color for hours when you're on location and discovering how it changes with the light and in the shadows. All the Impressionists did this,” she says.
In the shade of palms and live oaks
Keeping that view in her sights, Iglesias chooses to set up her easel just off the pathway beneath a cluster of trees out of bike and pedestrian traffic. “I like to work in the shade because your eye sees color better if your pupil is not contracted from the sun,” she explains as she zips open the large, wheeled backpack she’s brought.
The other advantage of shade, she adds, is that the canvas, or in this case the sanded paper she’s chosen to work on, will be situated in dispersed, even light, not dappled by the sun’s rays.
Another tip she offers: If you’re going to paint outdoors, no matter what the medium, make your equipment portable. She unpacks her gear quickly, opening the legs of a lightweight but sturdy easel. Today she’s decided to paint with soft pastels, a medium that looks like pieces of chalk but are (as she explains to curious onlookers throughout the day) sticks of highly concentrated pure pigment with minimal binders, unlike chalk, which is a dye-limestone or gypsum blend used for blackboards or sidewalk art.
“I don't come outside thinking I want to create a masterpiece. I’m really out here to get the feel of a place and the atmosphere and to study the colors because every painting, for me, is an experiment. You just see where it goes.”
— Carol Iglesias
SkyFire
After she mounts and opens her hinged box of pastels, I do a quick count — 228 pieces neatly arranged by hue. When I marvel at the number, Iglesias laughs. “My set of pastels back at the studio is three times this size. But I try to bring the maximum number I can carry because en plein air, the joke is that with pastels, you never seem to have the color you want.”
Getting the lay of the land: The quick sketch
Before making a single stroke, she pulls out a small sketchbook, one of scores she’s filled over the years, and, wielding a black pen, makes a rough value sketch of marsh, land and sky with a low horizon. It will be a roadmap for how she’ll set up her composition.
“I’m not putting in any detail. I’m just working on the four big shapes — that odd piece of water, the marsh, the line of trees in the distance, the sky.” Her hand is in constant motion as she tells me this.
Outside the square, she places an arrow indicating the direction of light and then, using gray markers, “colors in” each section according to its value, from darkest to light. “The beauty of this value study is that it gives me more freedom. I don't have to put in the actual colors I'm seeing, which aren't as exciting to me.”
culture
When done, she clips the sketch to a lower corner of the easel to the left of a 9 x 12 sheet of sanded terra cotta–colored paper. Quickly, she replicates the initial line drawing of big shapes in charcoal on the latter. Then it’s off to the races.
Making marks
Iglesias attacks the empty sheet with bold strokes. Working quickly, she makes short vertical and slanted lines in yellow for the marsh, adding a rugged band of chunky purples and greens for the trees, while leaving a few loosely outlined empty boxes to suggest the houses on the opposite bank that she may paint in later.
“It's my painting and my interpretation of what I’m seeing,” she declares, “and I can leave out anything or change anything I want.”
So it’s not surprising when she fills the sky with chunky white shapes broken with streaks of pinks and aquas, and the water with a range of blues and purples. All the while, she looks toward the real-life scene she’s painting, editing forms, layering in more colors, darkening shadows and adding light. Through all these changes, she keeps in mind her focal point: that “crazy shape of water” in the marsh, dabbing in reflections and depths and adding the small tufts of tall grasses that edge it.
Meanwhile, I’ve noticed that over the hour or so we’ve been here, the sunlight has intensified over the marsh, bringing out a new range of hues. The water and sky have grown bluer and the clouds have become puffier. And as she predicted, that “crazy shape of water” is narrowing into a slit.
Little by little, Iglesias has turned what had seemed lackluster to me this morning into a compelling piece of art. I can see that absolute accuracy is not important. The real scene in front of us has provided a suggestion. For plein-air artists like Iglesias, painting is about creating mood, an interesting composition, a piece that draws someone passing by to lean in and take a good look.
And they do. Couples, dog walkers, solitary passersby and photographers stop and admire. Even bikers pedaling by shout, “Beautiful.”
Before Iglesias packs up, we trade places, and I stand behind the easel, taking in both the view and her vibrant painting. I think of how Impressionists like Claude Monet could take an ordinary haystack or a lily pond and transform them into paintings you’d want to wander into. She leaves me not only with lessons in plein air, but with insight into the joy she brings to creating something extraordinary and imaginative in a real-life setting. LL
Upcoming exhibits
Carol Iglesias is the featured artist at Maye River Gallery through May. The gallery is located at 16 Church St. in Bluffton. From May 14-18, Iglesias, who is on the faculty of Plein Air Magazine’s 13th Annual Plein Air Convention & Expo in the Ozarks, will be featured on the Pastel Stage. Learn more at pleinairconvention.com. You can also see more of her work on her website, caroliglesias.com.
Colorful Umbrellas
Men vs. shark
A DECADE IN, LEAN ENSEMBLE CELEBRATES WITH A SHARP-WITTED STORY OF HOLLYWOOD CHAOS AND A FAMOUSLY FAULTY FISH
STORY BY CAROLYN MALES
THE CHAOS Blake White and Lean Ensemble dive into theatrical waters with The Shark Is Broken, a sharp, behind-the-scenes look at the chaos, camaraderie and creative grit behind an iconic film, running May 15-24 at HHPS Main Street Theater.
iI’d stopped in at the Lean Ensemble Theater office to talk about sharks. That is, the play The Shark is Broken, the comic drama centered around the mechanical mishaps of the great white that menaced Amity Island beachgoers and drove its three main stars bonkers during the making of Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster movie, Jaws. Remember that ominous two-note theme song portending a shark coming in for the kill? If composer John Williams had been scoring to echo the production’s real-life technical difficulties, he might have punctuated those iconic musical lines with trumpet splats as the shark’s gears executed each pratfall.
Galeophobia: Fear of sharks
The backstory: At the time (1974), a water-themed movie like Jaws might have been filmed in a big tank on the Universal Pictures backlot. But Spielberg had bigger ideas and hauled his cast and crew to Martha’s Vineyard and the Atlantic Ocean. To stretch a metaphor, you could say he was filming in “uncharted waters.” While Jaws, upon its release the following summer, would create “fear and loathing” among coastal beach lovers and spark a hunting mania among fishermen, shooting that scenario in situ proved nightmarish for the technicians, who were forced to wrestle the gears of the prickly predator into submission before it could be unleashed for its “feeding frenzy.” In frustration they took to calling the movie “Flaws.” Meanwhile, the stalled sea monster thrust the three main actors, the often-tipsy and volatile Robert Shaw, anxious newcomer Richard Dreyfuss and the more cool-headed Roy Scheider,
CUE
into creating their very own melodrama.
Playwrights Ian Shaw (Robert Shaw’s son) and Joseph Nixon place the unhappy trio of actors on the deck of a boat fittingly named Orca. Irritation rises and insults fly as those three egos clash during their endless waits for the maritime man-eater’s revival.
Taking the plunge
Blake White, founding artistic and executive director, chose this dramedy to close out Lean Ensemble’s 10th season, with Jay Briggs as director and actors Matt Mundy (as Dreyfuss), J. Richey Nash (Shaw) and White (Scheider). Cue the low strings and tuba. But when we meet in late March, he’s in the middle of preparations for The White Chip, a dark comedy about alcoholism and recovery that he’s directing. Here in Lean’s office-rehearsal space, we sit surrounded by walls lined with posters for the 44 shows the company has produced over the past decade, beginning with its first venture, God of Carnage. “Carnage,” the Tony Award–winning play about the perils of parenthood, had been a test run, putting a toe in the water, so to speak, to see if White’s idea of creating a regional theater would sink or swim. It
“No one was doing what you might call 'off-Broadway-type,' less commercial productions, the stories that make you think about the world in a different way. And I knew there was an audience for that here.”
— Blake White
See the show
What: The Shark is Broken
When: May 15-24
Where: HHPS Main Street Theater, Hilton Head Island
Details: Directed by Jay Briggs and featuring Matt Mundy, J. Richey Nash and Blake White. The open ocean, 1974. Filming is delayed … again. The lead actors, theatre veteran Robert Shaw and young Hollywood hotshots Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider, are crammed into a too-small boat, entirely at the mercy of foul weather and a faulty mechanical co-star. Alcohol flows, egos collide, and tempers flare on a chaotic voyage that just might lead to cinematic magic … if it doesn’t sink them all.
Tickets: Leanensemble.org, 843-715-6676
sold out four of its five shows, clearly signaling a winner.
[LOCAL Life] At Lean Ensemble’s launch party in February 2015, I remember the excitement among the people who had come to cheer you on. The South Carolina Repertory Company had recently folded, and while we had the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina producing big, glitzy shows, we didn’t have a professional theater doing the smaller plays, the ones that seldom made it to this corner of the Lowcountry. Launching Lean was clearly a brave thing to do.
[Blake White] My grandfather was a guy with an eighth-grade education, but he was an entrepreneur who ended up starting a couple of businesses that made a lot of money. So whatever this is, it’s like my genetics of entrepreneurship. Of course, I turned my idea into a nonprofit, so I wanted to be an entrepreneur who couldn’t get rich. [He shoots me a wry grin.] No one at the party that night handed me a check for more than $100. We had no real estate, and my only rules were that I wasn’t going to ask my family for anything, and I wasn’t going to put anything on a credit card. To this day, Lean Ensemble Theater doesn’t have a credit card, and we have no debt. We’re on solid footing, and we’re not going anywhere.
[LL] Why start a regional theater company here in the Lowcountry?
[BW] I knew that the arts community in Hilton Head was very robust and that the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina did an amazing job of putting on large-scale productions. But no one was producing the intimate, conversation-driven plays that do more than simply entertain. And don’t get me wrong, entertainment, especially now, is a hot commodity. Diversion is important for Lean too, but no one was doing what you might call “off-Broadway-type,” less commercial productions, the stories that make you think about the world in a different way. And I knew there was an audience for that here.
I’ve always been enamored of the regional theater model. Why? Because it gives you the chance to connect beyond what happens at a stage door when somebody’s leaving a Broadway theater. It offers the opportunity to become part of the fabric of a community and to be part of its identity. I wanted the roots of this organization to go deep into the soil of Hilton Head. That means embracing the artists who live here and cultivating a board of directors based here. My goal since this company started has been for it to outlast me. Whether I leave in a year or twenty, I want Lean Ensemble Theater to be such an entwined part of this community that it has no choice but to continue without me.
[LL] Over the years, I’ve seen you as an actor. One of my favorites was your portrayal of Father Brendan Flynn, the charismatic yet somewhat enigmatic priest in South Carolina Rep’s Doubt, and more recently as a director both at Lean and at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Like many talented theater actors or directors, you could have set your sights on the footlights of Broadway or beyond.
[BW] I would never have turned down fame and fortune. But when I’m working with Peggy White, Nick Newell, Jenny Zmarzly and Jeffrey Watkins in God of Carnage, or on The White Chip with Thomas Azar, Maggie Kettering and Brock Koonce, I am, in a way, working my dream job. This room [he gestures to the sparsely furnished office that also serves as a rehearsal space] is the happiest place in the world for me. I can’t believe I’m getting to tell these stories with these people who are lending me their talents. I’m so tired right now [it’s 11 a.m.], but at 5:30, when we start rehearsal, I’ll be completely energized. I’m doing plays that I get to choose with people I want to do them with. LL
FREEDOM’S ROOTS Aurin Squire’s Mitchelville made its world premiere with Lean Ensemble in 2023, telling a powerful story of a young man fighting to save his Gullah family home, woven through the legacy of America’s first self-governed town of formerly enslaved people.
SHIFT CHANGE In 2025 Lean Ensemble Theater’s production of Dominique Morisseau’s Skeleton Crew delivered a gripping portrait of working-class people, capturing the tensions, loyalties and quiet hopes of factory workers fighting to hold on as the world around them begins to shift.
RECOVERY ROAD In March Blake White directed The White Chip by Sean Daniels, a wry and unflinching journey through one man’s rise, fall and hard-won path to sobriety.
CAMELLIA ART
A sense of place
ARTWORK THAT CAPTURES THE QUIET BEAUTY, MEMORY AND EASE OF SOUTHERN COMFORT
tThere’s a feeling that settles over the Lowcountry this time of year. You’ll find it on a shaded porch, in marsh grass glowing at golden hour and in days that unfold at their own pace. Southern comfort isn’t something you chase. It’s something you notice.
We asked local galleries and artists to share artwork that captures that feeling, and they delivered in soft light and familiar scenes: breezy landscapes, weathered docks, sunlit rooms and everyday moments that feel both personal and shared. A few even look back to a quieter Lowcountry that moved to the rhythm of tide and season.
Together these pieces capture Southern comfort as we know it; easy, familiar and unmistakably Lowcountry. See them for yourself in local galleries, where the story continues, one brushstroke at a time. LL
Lighting the Way by Dottie Leatherwood
ART THAT ELEVATES
“Lowcountry -8 Egret”
“Lowcountry -9 Egret” Featured Artist: Brian Hibbard
hilton head’s destination for distinctive men’s clothing
SOCIETY OF BLUFFTON ARTISTS
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Days Catch by Sandy Rhodes
Living His Best Life by Julia Kamenskikh
Red Door by Julia Kamenskikh
Boathouse by Jeanne Landreth
The Orchard Oriole is a gorgeous but somewhat tricky feeder bird — here are the best tips to attract them. Fill an oriole feeder with a 4:1 waterto-sugar solution. (Avoid red dye.) They are a big fan of grape jelly. Offer it in a shallow dish or dedicated jelly feeder. Use sparingly as too much isn't great for them. Halved oranges skewered on a spike are classic. Ripe mango, cherries, and berries also work well.
Join the owners of Wild Birds Unlimited Hilton Head for every aspect of backyard birding. From equipment and outings, to solutions and resources. 45 YEARS CELEBRATING OF SAVING SONGBIRDS
Orchard Oriole THE RED PIANO ART GALLERY
Gullah Gold by Sonja Griffin Evans
Fish Camp by West Fraser
MARGE AGIN
Favorite Flavor by Anne Blair Brown
Summertime at Alljoy by Marge Agin
8
culture
Coming over the last bridge, HOME, HOME that sensation, crossing the over, soft moisture seeping into skin, windy heat fingering hair, spartina stretching across horizons hope golden-pink as the daily lightshow closes.
Breathe in a spectrum of wild color on solid clouds.
Where the body nourishes and thrives
Where the mind percolates and lives
Where the heart finds purpose and poise
Where the spirit meets dreamscapes inside noise
Where the comyah feels like a binyah Home is that feeling.
— Elizabeth Robin
This is part of an eight-part poem, “Dream Home” first published in Coast Lines (2025 Class Publishing).
LOCAL ART & POETRY
Girl On a Bicycle by Valerie Mathijsen-Palay
WHAT’S FRESH IN MAY?
Lavender, reconsidered
SOFT, FLORAL AND FAR MORE VERSATILE THAN YOU THINK, THIS CLASSIC HERB EARNS ITS PLACE IN THE LOWCOUNTRY KITCHEN
STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM
Pro tip
Start light with the lavender syrup and adjust to taste. A little goes a long way.
GARDEN TO GLASS Lavender brings a soft, floral note to drinks that feels both refreshing and a little unexpected. Steep it into a simple syrup, and it becomes an easy way to elevate everything from lemonade and iced tea to cocktails and mocktails.
lLavender has a reputation. Soft purple fields. Linen closets. Spa days with soft robes and bath soaks. But tucked behind all that calm is a surprisingly versatile kitchen player. Used with a light hand, its delicate floral flavor can turn everyday dishes into something just a little more interesting, a little more memorable. It has been doing that for a long time. More than 2,500 years, in fact. From ancient rituals to modern recipes, lavender has always lived at the intersection of beauty and usefulness. And yes, it can grow here in the Lowcountry, even with our heat and humidity trying to prove otherwise. This month we’re giving lavender a second look: where it comes from, how to grow it, how to cook with it and how not to accidentally make your dinner taste like soap.
Lavender
Lime Refresher
Light, floral and perfectly refreshing, this lavender lime drink blends citrus brightness with a subtle herbal note. Fresh mint adds a cooling finish, making it ideal for warm Lowcountry afternoons.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4-5 limes) 2 cups cold sparkling water (or still water) Ice
Garnish: Fresh mint sprigs, fresh lavender sprigs, lime slices
DIRECTIONS[1] In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar over medium heat. Stir until dissolved. Add lavender, remove from heat and let steep for 1015 minutes. Strain and cool completely. [2] In a pitcher, combine 1/2 cup of the lavender syrup with fresh lime juice. Stir well. [3] Fill two glasses with ice. Add a few mint leaves to each glass, and gently muddle to release their aroma. [4] Pour the lavender-lime mixture over ice, then top with sparkling water. Stir gently to combine. [5] Garnish with lime slices, fresh lavender sprigs and mint. Serve immediately.
BOOZE IT UP
Add 1 to 1.5 ounces of a Southern-made vodka like Charleston’s Dixie Southern Vodka for a clean, crisp kick, or swap in a floral-forward gin like Hilton Head’s Bulrush Gin for a botanical twist that pairs beautifully with the lavender.
LOCAL LIFE TEST KITCHEN
Flower of the flock
First rule of cooking with lavender: not all lavender is invited. English lavender is the one you want. It is softer, slightly sweet and far less aggressive than its showier cousins. French and Spanish varieties may win the beauty contest, but in the kitchen they tend to overpower everything in sight. The buds are where the flavor lives. And they do not need much help. A pinch is plenty. More than that, and you risk crossing the line from elegant to edible air freshener.
Taking root
Lavender has been pulling its weight for centuries. Ancient Egyptians used it in mummification. The Greeks turned to it for medicinal remedies. The Romans? They put it in their baths, which is how it likely got its name from lavare, meaning “to wash.” By the Middle Ages, it was everywhere. Soaps, oils, remedies. When it made its way to the Americas, it slipped easily into gardens and kitchens alike. Some plants are pretty. Some are useful. Lavender has always been both.
Flower power
That calming scent is not just for show. Lavender has long been used to ease stress, support sleep and take the edge off a long day. It is rich in antioxidants and carries natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In the kitchen it does more than smell good. It can help with digestion and bring a subtle sense of balance to dishes. Think of it as flavor with benefits.
Petals of promise
Growing lavender in the Lowcountry takes a little strategy. Sun is easy. Drainage is everything. Clemson Cooperative Extension recommends full sun and sharply draining soil. Translation: keep it dry. Terra cotta pots work well indoors. Outdoors, raised beds or containers can help you stay ahead of our sandy, humid soil.
Prune lightly in spring, trim again in midsummer, and cut back by about one-third in late summer. Harvest when the buds are full and just starting to open. That is when the flavor is at its best.
Fresh pick
Good lavender should look alive. Bright blue-purple, not faded or gray. Give it a quick smell. It should be fresh and slightly sweet, not overwhelming. And make sure it is labeled for culinary use. Not all lavender is meant for your plate, and essential oils definitely are not. Like anything else, better in means better out.
Pretty delicious
Lay in lavender
Fresh lavender will hold for about a week in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel. For longer storage, drying is the move. Hang small bundles upside down in a cool, dark space with good airflow. Give it a couple of weeks. When the stems snap, you are ready. Strip the buds, toss the debris, and store the buds in an airtight container out of the light.
Scent-sational flavor
Lavender brings a soft floral sweetness with hints of citrus and herbs. The key is restraint. Dried buds are about three times stronger than fresh, so start small. Grind them into baked goods, or steep them into syrups, teas or cream for a gentle infusion. A simple lavender syrup can elevate everything from lemonade to cocktails.
Lavender may be known for desserts, but it has a savory side, too. Use it like rosemary or thyme, just a touch, to deepen roasted chicken, lamb or even a light dressing. It is also part of Herbes de Provence, which should tell you everything you need to know. Pair it with lemon, honey, vanilla or herbs like basil and mint. Done right, it adds a quiet sophistication. The kind people notice, even if they cannot quite put their finger on why. LL
THE PURPLE COW Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Lisa “Bernie” Bernstein, owner of The Purple Cow on Office Park Road, shares her delicate and fragrant Lavender Shortbread Cookies. They’re subtly floral, perfectly sweet and ideal for tea time or gifting.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups flour
1 stick salted butter
1 cup sugar, divided 1/2 teaspoon dried lavender buds 1 to 2 tablespoons water
Purple food coloring
DIRECTIONS[1] Crush the lavender and set aside. [2] In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and 1/2 cup sugar for 2 full minutes. [3] In a separate bowl, sift the flour, add the lavender and stir to combine. [4] Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until crumbly. Add 1 tablespoon water and mix until a dough forms. If it is too crumbly, add another tablespoon of water. If too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour. [5] Roll the dough into a log on parchment paper. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour. [6] Add 2 drops of purple food coloring to the remaining 1/2 cup sugar on a sheet of plastic wrap. Roll the chilled dough log in the sugar. If the sugar does not stick, brush the log lightly with egg white and roll again. [7] Slice into cookies about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick and place on a cookie sheet 2 inches apart. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
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JUNE • JULY • AUGUST 10AM UNTIL 2PM
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Local flavor: Southern comfort edition
The dishes we grew up with, the techniques we trust and the flavors we crave
tSTORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM
There’s something about Southern comfort food that never goes out of style. It’s the dishes we grew up with, the ones passed down, shared and remembered long after the table is cleared. Here in the Lowcountry those flavors are part of everyday life, rooted in tradition but always evolving in the hands of the people who cook them. This month’s Local Flavor celebrates that balance. From soulful classics to time-tested techniques and signature recipes with a personal twist, these are the dishes that feel like home; simple, satisfying and meant to be shared.
Crab it up
For an extra touch of Lowcountry luxury, gently fold in 1/2 pound of pasteurized, fullycooked lump crab meat just before serving, keeping the pieces intact so their sweet, delicate flavor shines through.
A LOWCOUNTRY CLASSIC Plump local shrimp rest in a rich, Creole-kissed sauce over a bed of creamy grits, with blistered tomatoes adding a pop of sweetness. Finished with fresh green onions, it’s a comforting, flavor-packed bowl that captures the coastal Southern soul Nectar does so well.
NECTAR BLUFFTON
Shrimp and grits
Few dishes feel more like home than shrimp and grits. It’s the kind of Lowcountry staple that shows up in cast-iron skillets, on white tablecloths and everywhere in between, always delivering that perfect mix of comfort and coastal flavor. At Nectar Bluffton, executive chef Adam Marshall gives the classic a polished lift without messing with what makes it special. Creamy, slow-simmered grits lay the foundation for tender local shrimp and a velvety Creole-spiced sauce that brings just enough kick. It’s rich but not heavy, refined but still relaxed; the kind of dish that works just as well after a long day as it does when company’s coming over. Serves 4.
INGREDIENTS (grits)
3 cups chicken stock
Lowcountry Style FRENCH FLAIR
2/3 cup Congaree Milling Company White Quick Grits
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup heavy cream Salt, to taste
DIRECTIONS [1] In a medium saucepan, bring chicken stock and butter to a boil. [2] Gradually whisk in the grits. [3] Reduce heat to low, and simmer about 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender and creamy. [4] Stir in heavy cream, and cook 5 minutes more. [5] Season with salt, to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve.
INGREDIENTS (shrimp, crab & sauce)
1-2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola, vegetable)
1 pound 21/25 local shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
1/2 cup white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon chopped garlic
1 tablespoon Zatarain’s Creole Seasoning Salt and pepper, to taste Green onions, sliced
DIRECTIONS [1] Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. [2] Add 1-2 tablespoons neutral oil (or 1 tablespoon oil + 1 tablespoon butter), and sauté tomatoes for about 2 minutes, until they begin to soften and lightly blister. [3] Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook about 1-2 minutes per side, just until pink. [4] Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant. [5] Deglaze with white wine and reduce by half. Cook until alcohol smell dissipates. [6] Add heavy cream and Creole seasoning, simmering until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
TO SERVE Spoon warm grits into shallow bowls. Top with shrimp and sauce, letting it spill over the edges. Finish with a scatter of green onions, and serve immediately.
eats WHAT THE PROS LOVE
We asked local chefs and restaurateurs to share their favorite Southern dish:
“New Orleans-style gumbo (chicken and sausage) is my favorite. It reminds me of the six years I spent in New Orleans. Our son was born there, and we loved the city, its history and its culture. Gumbo takes a while to make, so it gives me an excuse to open a nice bottle of bourbon and turn on some jazz when I cook it at home. It brings back memories of long days walking through the Quarter.”
— Chef Josh O’Neill
TRUFFLES CAFE
“My favorite dish is cast-iron skillet fried chicken. It reminds me of childhood family gatherings and picnics. We have a large family, so it was always festive and fun.”
— Price Beall
CACTUS STREET CANTINA
“Shrimp and grits, but it can’t be a brown gravy. A Tasso ham gravy is best, mixed with creamy grits, chunks of ham and sautéed shrimp. I’m hungry just thinking about it!”
— Lauren Jordan
HAMPTON HALL CLUB
“I love chicken pot pie because my daughters love it when I cook it and want to help me make it. Also, with three girls we go through a lot of dishes, so being able to make the pot pie all in one cast-iron skillet is a game changer.”
— Chef John Huffenberger
COLLETON RIVER CLUB
Pour it on
A splash of buttermilk makes almost everything better
cCould one humble ingredient be the secret behind cloud-like biscuits and crackling, juicy fried chicken? In Southern kitchens, the answer has always been yes. Buttermilk may not look like much, but it’s one of the quiet workhorses of comfort cooking, shaping texture, flavor and that unmistakable Southern soul. And despite the name, it’s lighter than you think.
Traditionally, buttermilk was the liquid left behind after churning butter. Today’s version is cultured, made by adding live bacteria to milk and letting it ferment. The result is thicker, tangy and packed with lactic acid, which is where the magic happens. That gentle acidity gives buttermilk its signature zip and a surprising list of kitchen superpowers.
In baking it reacts with baking soda to create lift, producing tender biscuits, fluffy pancakes and soft, delicate cakes. It also softens gluten, giving baked goods a finer, more tender crumb. When used as a marinade, that same acidity breaks down proteins, turning fried chicken into something impossibly juicy with a flavorful, wellseasoned crust. Beyond texture, it adds balance, a subtle tang that cuts through richness and keeps dishes from feeling heavy.
Buttermilk earned its place in Southern cooking through both thrift and tradition. On early farms nothing went to waste, and this byproduct became a staple in everything from biscuits to dressings. Over time, it became synonymous with comfort itself. Today it still anchors classics like buttermilk biscuits, cornbread, ranch dressing and, of course, fried chicken.
Its versatility goes well beyond the basics. Use it to marinate chicken or pork, stir it into mashed potatoes for a tangy twist, or whisk it into batters for pancakes and waffles. It makes a perfect base for dressings and dips and can even brighten soups and sauces.
Best bet: Organic Valley Cultured Buttermilk
This is the closest thing to “chef-level” buttermilk you’ll find in most stores. It has a balanced tang and creamy texture, which makes it ideal for biscuits, pancakes and fried chicken. Many cooks prefer it because it’s less harsh than cheaper brands and produces better texture in baking.
Spoonfuls of comfort
Master the art of sausage gravy
HOW TO
fFew breakfasts feel more Southern than biscuits and gravy, a dish born from both comfort and necessity. Originally known as sawmill gravy, it dates back to the late 1800s in Appalachia, where cooks stretched pork drippings, flour and milk into a hearty meal that could fuel long days of labor. What began as humble sustenance has since become a creamy, peppery staple, still holding court on tables from roadside diners to Lowcountry kitchens.
GOOD GRAVY A generous ladle of rich, pepper-speckled sausage gravy cascades over warm, flaky biscuits at Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe, soaking into every layer and turning a simple plate into pure Southern comfort.
At its core, sausage gravy is simple, but technique makes all the difference. According to Leslie and Paul “Stew” Stewart of Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe, it starts with properly browning the sausage. As it cooks, it releases rich fat and leaves behind golden bits that build depth into the final gravy. Flour is stirred directly into the skillet, coating the sausage and absorbing those drippings to form a roux. Let it cook briefly to eliminate any raw flour taste and lay the foundation for a smooth, well-rounded sauce.
From there, patience takes over. Add milk slowly over low heat, stirring constantly and scraping up every bit of flavor from the pan. As the mixture warms, it thickens into a velvety, spooncoating gravy. Black pepper delivers its signature bite, while seasoning can be adjusted to taste. The goal is simple: rich but balanced, thick yet still pourable.
While biscuits are the classic pairing, this gravy doesn’t stop there. Spoon it over toast, grits or crispy hash browns for a stickto-your-ribs meal that works any time of day.
Sausage Gravy
For more than 20 years, Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe has been the kind of place where locals don’t need a menu. They already know why they’re there: the quiche, the eggs Benedict and the biscuits and gravy, arguably the island’s best. For owner Paul “Stew” Stewart, sausage gravy is more than a staple. It’s a craft, honed over decades and built on simple ingredients done right. His version follows the Southern playbook with one quiet twist: a spoonful of Better Than Bouillon chicken base. It’s not traditional, but it adds a subtle depth that takes the gravy from good to “what did you put in this?” good.
INGREDIENTS
2 pounds sausage 3/4 cup flour
1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon chicken base
6-8 cups milk, added gradually until desired consistency
2 teaspoons black pepper
Salt to taste
1 can good-quality biscuits (or homemade)
DIRECTIONS [1] In a large skillet, brown the sausage until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. [2] Sprinkle flour over the sausage, stirring to absorb the rendered fat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Stir in chicken base and black pepper. [3] Reduce heat to low. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly and scraping the bottom of the pan, until smooth and thickened. Bring to a gentle simmer. [4] Season with salt to taste. The gravy should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still pour easily. [5] Spoon generously over warm biscuits and serve immediately.
PALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFE
Shell game strong
Sweet crab, rich flavor and a recipe worth sharing
eEvery cook has that one recipe: the dish friends request by name, the one that shows up at every gathering and the one they can make without a second thought. Our Signature Dish feature celebrates those standouts, spotlighting a favorite from someone in the local community each month. After sharing their recipe and the story behind it, they pass the baton by nominating the next cook to keep the chain going. This month’s recipe comes from Bess Soper, owner of Bess’ Delicatessen & Catering, nominated by Brantley King.
DISH THAT DELIVERS Bess Soper’s deviled crab casserole is a staple at her Lowcountry catering events, served warm and crisp-topped to crowds who come back for seconds. A sought-after caterer and local favorite since 1983, Bess also runs her popular delicatessen at Fountain Center off New Orleans Road.
BESS SOPER
Deviled Crab Casserole
For Bess Soper, this dish is a true reflection of her cooking style: generous, flavorful and made to be shared. Her deviled crab casserole strikes a perfect balance between rich and bright, letting the sweetness of the crab shine while layering in just the right amount of seasoning and texture. It’s the recipe that’s always requested, the one that disappears first at gatherings and the one people associate with her the moment they take a bite. Comforting and crowd pleasing, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone back for seconds. Serves 8.
INGREDIENTS
2 pounds special crab meat
1 pound claw meat
3 cups onion, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups celery, finely chopped
2 bell peppers, finely chopped
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 cups mayonnaise
4 tablespoons yellow mustard
2 cups Pepperidge Farm herb stuffing mix
1 teaspoon paprika
Dash of salt
Black pepper, to taste
TOPPING & FINISH
Butter
Old Bay seasoning
Ritz crackers
DIRECTIONS [1] Gently pick through crab meat to remove any shells. In a skillet, lightly sauté onion, celery and bell peppers until softened. [2] Combine crab, sautéed vegetables and remaining ingredients, mixing thoroughly. If mixture feels too wet, add a bit more stuffing mix. Place mixture in a 9x13 baking dish or individual ramekins. [3] Crumble Ritz crackers (about 1-2 sleeves), and sprinkle evenly over the top. Lightly dust with Old Bay seasoning. [4] Drizzle with melted butter, or dot the top with butter. [5] Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and golden on top.
Shell yeah, it’s tradition
Long before it showed up on restaurant menus, deviled crab was a staple in Lowcountry homes, especially among those who grew up here. Made from fresh local blue crab and stretched with pantry staples, it was both practical and celebratory. Families passed down their own versions, some spicier, some richer, but all rooted in the same idea: make the most of what the coast provides. For many locals deviled crab isn’t just a dish. It’s a memory. It’s church suppers, holiday tables and backyard gatherings where someone always brings “their” version. Whether served in a shell, a ramekin or a casserole dish, it remains a true taste of the Lowcountry: simple, soulful and meant to be shared.
Pro tip
Keep batches small. Overcrowding drops the oil temperature and turns crisp chicken greasy.
Finger-licking good
The science, the crunch and the secret to perfectly fried chicken
STORY BY LANCE HANLIN
The science of the crunch
Great fried chicken starts long before it ever hits the skillet. Moisture is the enemy of crispness, which is why a well-seasoned dredge and a brief rest before frying are essential. That coating hydrates just enough to cling, setting the stage for a proper crust. When it meets hot beef tallow, around 350 degrees, moisture rapidly evaporates, creating steam that pushes outward and forms that craggy, golden crunch. Double dredging adds extra texture, while a steady tallow temperature keeps the crust light instead of greasy. And once it’s out of the pan, a wire rack, not paper towels, preserves that hardearned crispness. Get these details right, and you’ll have fried chicken that shatters on the outside and stays tender within.
Eleven herbs and spices
For decades, cooks have chased that perfect balance of crunch and flavor. Few stories capture that pursuit better than the legend of Colonel Sanders’ 11 herbs and spices. Claudia Sanders, his second wife, was said to have a handwritten list tucked among his papers. Whether myth or truth, the legend endures, fueling curiosity and countless attempts to recreate that unmistakable flavor. This recipe is one of those attempts, a take on the iconic blend that made fried chicken history.
tThere’s a moment when fried chicken tells you everything you need to know. The first bite lands with a crisp crackle you can hear as much as taste. Then comes the payoff: juicy, tender meat that makes you forget every bad piece of chicken you’ve ever had. That contrast, crunchy outside and succulent inside, isn’t luck. It’s technique, timing and just enough kitchen magic to make you chase that first bite again and again.
Secret recipe fried chicken
INGREDIENTS
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/3 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon celery salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dry mustard
4 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons garlic salt
1 teaspoon ground ginger
3 teaspoons white pepper
2 cups flour (1 1/2 cups all-purpose + 1/2 cup Wondra), plus extra for dredging
1 cup buttermilk
1 egg
1 whole chicken, cut into 10 pieces
1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (for tang, not heat)
Beef tallow, for frying
DIRECTIONS [1] Cut the chicken into 10 pieces: two wings, two legs, two thighs and two breasts halved. [2] In a large bowl, whisk together the flour with all herbs and spices until evenly combined. [3] In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, hot sauce and buttermilk. Add the chicken, turning to coat. Let sit for at least 20 minutes or up to a few hours in the fridge. [4] Remove chicken, letting excess drip off. Dredge in flour, pressing to adhere. For extra crunch, dip again and dredge a second time. Let rest 15-20 minutes, until the coating looks slightly tacky. [5] Heat 2-3 inches of beef tallow in a cast-iron skillet to 350 degrees. Fry in batches at 315-325 degrees, allowing for the natural temperature drop when the chicken hits the oil. Turn occasionally until deeply golden and cooked through, 12-18 minutes depending on size. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees. [6] Transfer to a wire rack. Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Collard greens
INGREDIENTS
2 large bunches collard greens, washed, stems removed and leaves chopped
1 smoked ham hock
4 cups chicken broth
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
DIRECTIONS [1] In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the ham hock, chicken broth and diced onion. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20-30 minutes to start pulling out that smoky flavor. [2] Pile in the collard greens. It will look like too much at first, but they’ll cook down quickly. Stir to coat them in the broth. [3] Add garlic, vinegar, sugar and red pepper flakes. Partially cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The greens should be soft, silky and deeply infused with flavor. [4] Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot, discarding the bone and excess fat. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. [5] Spoon into a bowl with plenty of the potlikker. Serve hot as a side or alongside cornbread to soak up every drop.
Baked mac and cheese
INGREDIENTS
1 pound elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Colby Jack or mild cheddar, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra for topping)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
DIRECTIONS [1] Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside. [2] In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream and eggs. Stir in the shredded cheeses (reserving a small handful for the top), garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper. [3] Add the cooked macaroni to the mixture, and stir until every piece is coated. Pour into a generously buttered baking dish. [4] Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, followed by breadcrumbs and a generous dusting of Parmesan for that golden crust. [5] Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Let it rest 10 minutes before serving to help it set cleanly.
Sweet cornbread
INGREDIENTS
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for the pan)
DIRECTIONS [1] Heat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly butter an 8x8-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet. [2] In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. [3] In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs and melted butter. [4] Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, and stir just until combined. Do not over mix. The batter should be slightly thick. [5] Pour the batter into the prepared dish, and smooth the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. [6] Let cool slightly, then cut into squares. Serve warm, either plain or with a pat of butter.
Fried green tomatoes
INGREDIENTS
3-4 large green tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Vegetable oil, for frying
DIRECTIONS [1] Slice the green tomatoes, and lay them on a paper towel. Lightly salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry. [2] Place flour in one shallow dish. In a second dish, whisk together eggs and buttermilk. In a third dish, combine cornmeal, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, paprika and garlic powder. [3] Dredge each tomato slice in flour, dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the cornmeal mixture. Press lightly so the coating sticks. For extra crunch, double-dip the slices in the egg and cornmeal mixture before frying. [4] Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat to about 350 degrees. Once hot, add the tomato slices in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. [5] Transfer to a paper towellined plate to drain. Sprinkle lightly with salt while still hot. Serve warm, stacked high, with a dipping sauce like remoulade, ranch or a simple drizzle of hot sauce.
Banana pudding
INGREDIENTS (pudding)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
4 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
INGREDIENTS (for layering)
4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafers
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
DIRECTIONS [1] In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, cream, sugar and cornstarch. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thickened and just beginning to bubble. Add a pinch of salt. [2] In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot mixture into the yolks to temper them, then return everything to the saucepan. Continue cooking until thick and smooth. [3] Remove from heat, and stir in butter and vanilla. Let cool slightly. [4] In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Set aside. [5] In small glasses, start with a layer of crushed vanilla wafers. Add a layer of banana slices, then spoon over the warm custard. Repeat the layers, finishing with custard on top. [6] Top with a few banana slices, whole wafers and wafer crumbs. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours (overnight is even better) so the flavors meld and the wafers soften. Serve chilled.
Sweet tea
INGREDIENTS
4 cups water
4-6 black tea bags
3/4 to 1 cup granulated sugar (to taste)
4 cups cold water
Ice
Fresh lemon slices
DIRECTIONS [1] Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat, and add tea bags. Let steep for 5-7 minutes, depending on how strong you like it. [2] Remove the tea bags, and stir in the sugar while the tea is still hot. This helps it dissolve completely and creates that smooth, balanced sweetness. [3] Pour the sweetened tea into a pitcher, and add 4 cups of cold water. Stir well and refrigerate until chilled. [4] Fill mason jars or glasses with ice. Pour in the tea, and add lemon slices for a bright, refreshing finish. Serve ice-cold with plenty of lemon.
Classic Lowcountry boil
THIS ONE-POT MEAL IS A SOUTHERN FAVORITE STEEPED IN TRADITION AND OLD BAY
wSTORY + PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEA WILKINS
When it comes to Southern comfort, no dish represents our particular stretch of the coast more than a Lowcountry boil. Popularized in mid-20th century Beaufort as “Frogmore stew,” this familysized, one-pot meal combines the best offerings of the region: fresh shrimp, savory sausage, hearty potatoes, sweet corn and plenty of seasoning. For spring and summer hosting, LOCAL Life publisher Lori Goodridge-Cribb serves the dish alongside homemade cocktail sauce, crusty bread (to soak up the brothy goodness) and local brews from Lincoln & South for extra points on local flavor. Best enjoyed around a full table, it is a crowd-pleaser that tastes like home.
SHRIMPLY THE BEST
For an authentic Lowcountry boil, locally sourced shrimp is non-negotiable. Lori recommends purchasing large shrimp in the 21 to 25 per pound range. These retain their size during cooking while still being small enough to enjoy in one bite. As a general rule, plan on 1/4 pound of shrimp per person.
Lowcountry boil
INGREDIENTS
Watch & learn
Watch Lori prepare this dish “From Scratch” on LOCAL Life’s YouTube Channel @LocalLifeSC
2 pounds jumbo shrimp (21 to 25 per pound)
2 pounds red potatoes
1 pound smoked sausage
4 to 6 ears sweet corn, halved
1 large sweet onion, quartered
1 lemon, halved 1/4 to 1/2 cup Old Bay seasoning
8 to 12 quarts water, depending on pot size
DIRECTIONS [1] Quarter the onion. Chop the corn and sausage into roughly equal-sized pieces. [2] Fill a large pot three-quarters full with water. Add the onion, lemon and Old Bay seasoning, and bring to a boil. [3] Once boiling, add the potatoes. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until fork-tender. [4] Add the corn and sausage and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. [5] Add the shrimp and cook for no longer than 2 to 3 minutes. [6] Use a spider strainer to remove all ingredients from the pot, then season with additional Old Bay to taste. Serve immediately with cocktail sauce and crusty bread.
Cocktail sauce
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup ketchup
2 to 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Pinch of salt and black pepper
DIRECTIONS Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust horseradish, lemon juice or seasoning as desired. Chill until ready to serve.
From Scratch
an online video cooking series featuring publisher Lori Goodridge-Cribb
COMPANY’S COMING. The table needs setting. The oven is warming up. And LOCAL Life publisher Lori Goodridge-Cribb is right there with you. Each month on From Scratch, Lori invites readers into her kitchen to share a seasonal recipe made for gathering. She believes the best memories happen around the table, and she is happy to show you exactly how she brings it all together. For May, she is preparing a traditional Lowcountry boil.
Follow the recipe on the left, then head to LOCAL Life’s YouTube channel at @LocalLifeSC to watch the full episode. You will pick up smart kitchen shortcuts, simple hosting ideas and a few well-earned stories from Lori’s years of cooking for family, friends and anyone lucky enough to pull up a chair.
To see Lori in action and watch every episode of “From Scratch,” scan the QR code or visit LOCAL Life’s YouTube channel at @LocalLifeSC.
RESTAURANT
news¬es
FRESH FOOD + NOW OPEN + HOT PRODUCTS
BY BAILEY GILLIAM
A fresh round of flavor
Late spring brings a fresh surge of energy to the Lowcountry dining scene, with new openings, creative concepts and a few exciting transitions unfolding across the area. From laid-back neighborhood hangouts to globally inspired flavors and reimagined local favorites, May’s restaurant news captures a community that continues to grow, evolve and welcome new ideas. Here’s what’s now open, what’s on the way and what locals are talking about this month..
NOW OPEN
Pan Casero Bakery BRIDGE CENTER, HILTON HEAD
Taking over the former Odd Birds space, Pan Casero Bakery brings traditional Mexican baking to Hilton Head. The menu features handmade breads and pastries crafted without machines or preservatives, alongside savory sandwiches served on house-made rolls. Expect everything from croissants and crepes to paninis, plus coffee, cold drinks and shaved ice topped with real fruit syrups. For the owners, this marks their first standalone storefront after years in the business.
Pour & Proper
19 DUNNAGANS ALLEY, HILTON HEAD
A new bar and music lounge has opened on Dunnagans Alley, blending dive bar ease with elevated cocktail culture. Pour & Proper made its debut with a lively soft opening packed with local musicians, setting the tone for what’s ahead. The concept splits into two distinct experiences: the casual “Pour” side with cold beer and familiar favorites, and the moodier, more intimate “Proper” side. With live music, strong drinks and a clear focus on community, it’s already shaping up to be a go-to late-night hangout.
Cocos Lokos
216 MAY RIVER ROAD, BLUFFTON
A new stop for fresh, fruit-forward treats has opened just outside La Poblanita. Cocos Lokos specializes in made-to-order snacks and drinks, from chilled coconut water and prepared coconuts to tepache, mangos and over-the-top creations like sandía loca. Everything is assembled on the spot using fresh ingredients, including coconuts imported from Mexico, delivering bold, refreshing flavors perfect for Lowcountry heat.
Sumo Sushi & Hibachi
NORTHRIDGE PLAZA, HILTON HEAD
A new fast-casual option for Japanese cuisine has arrived. Sumo Sushi & Hibachi serves freshly prepared sushi rolls, hibachi dishes and other favorites, all made to order. Located in the shopping center with HomeGoods and Dollar Tree, it offers a convenient, quality-driven option for quick, flavorful meals.
NOW OPEN
Greenhouse Restaurant
1260 MAY RIVER ROAD, OLD TOWN BLUFFTON
A new farm-to-table concept has arrived in Old Town Bluffton, offering a refined yet inviting dining experience. Greenhouse Restaurant focuses on seasonal menus and craft cocktails in an intimate setting. Created by sisters Jennifer and Melissa Perri, the restaurant blends elevated cuisine with a personal story rooted in family and hospitality.
Lowcountry Crawfish Company MOBILE FOOD TRUCK
This “boiling house on wheels” is bringing fresh, perfectly seasoned crawfish to communities across the Lowcountry. Lowcountry Crawfish Company serves hot, ready-to-eat crawfish as well as live sacks for at-home boils, offering a flexible, authentic seafood experience. Watch for pop-up locations throughout the season.
Coast Roast Coffee
1628 PARIS AVENUE, PORT ROYAL
A familiar coffee spot has been reimagined with the opening of Coast Roast Coffee, now in the former Corner Perk space. New owners Camie and Ryan Messick have created a cozy, coastal-inspired café featuring houseroasted coffee, homemade syrups and in-house baked goods. The shop also showcases local art and plans to roast beans on-site in the near future.
Pure Cafe & Bakeshop
7 ROBERT SMALLS PARKWAY, BEAUFORT
Now open in Beaufort, Pure Cafe & Bakeshop is quickly building a following with its house-made baked goods and thoughtfully crafted coffee drinks. Open Thursday through Monday, the café offers rotating seasonal pastries, in-house syrups and a welcoming morning-to-early-afternoon vibe.
NEWS & NOTES
Ralphie’s Pizza now Jersey Pie
A familiar pizza spot is entering a new chapter. Formerly Ralphie’s Pizza, the restaurant is now operating as Jersey Pie, unveiling a refreshed identity while keeping many longtime favorites on the menu. The transition has come with a few growing pains, including temporary cash-only service as new systems are put in place, but the team remains focused on a smooth evolution. With updates to the space and more changes ahead, Jersey Pie is aiming for a fresh start while asking for a little patience along the way.
Fire closes The Southern Peel
The community is rallying around The Southern Peel pizza truck after a devastating fire temporarily halted operations. The blaze caused significant damage to essential equipment, leaving the beloved business facing both logistical hurdles and financial strain. As a mobile operation, the loss hits especially hard. In response, locals have stepped up with fundraising efforts and word-of-mouth support. For a business that has become a staple at gatherings and events, it’s now the community returning the favor, helping them rebuild and, hopefully, get back on the road soon.
Wingfest winners
One of the Lowcountry’s most anticipated food events returned for its 29th year, drawing crowds eager to sample the area’s best wings. This year’s Wingfest delivered a strong mix of longtime favorites and standout newcomers. The Hilton Head Fire Association claimed first place from the judges, followed by Street Meet and One Hot Mama’s. In the People’s Choice category, top honors went to Coconutz, Fraser’s Tavern and Sprout Mama. As always, the event celebrated bold flavors, friendly competition and the community spirit that keeps locals coming back year after year.
COMING SOON
Cintli: Ancestral Corn Kitchen LOWCOUNTRY POP-UPS
Chef Isaac Jimenez is developing a thoughtful, chef-driven concept centered on the tradition of corn. Cintli will explore heirloom grains and the ancient process of nixtamalization, transforming locally sourced corn into fresh masa while highlighting the connection between food, culture and community. Launching first as chef’s tables, pop-ups and demonstrations, the concept offers an immersive look at the craft behind each dish, with plans to expand later this summer.
Barnacle Brews Coffee 614 WILLIAM HILTON PARKWAY, HILTON HEAD
A new coffee concept inspired by slow island mornings is preparing to open next to Barnacle Bill’s Seafood. Barnacle Brews will focus on fresh brews, local charm and a relaxed coastal feel, aiming to become a goto stop for both residents and visitors.
Quick Quick
Bites Bites
NUGGETS FROM THE LOCAL FOOD & BEVERAGE SCENE
Chill-N Bluffton is under new ownership and gearing up for a reopening soon. A new Corner Perk location is in the works just north of the Bluffton and Buckwalter parkways.
Chow Daddy’s in Sea Pines has reopened for the season, bringing back its laid-back island favorites.
The new Island Bagel & Deli on Buckwalter is officially open and ready to serve up breakfast and lunch staples.
Okàn’s ice cream window is now open, just in time for warmer days and after-dinner strolls.
Rotten Little Bastard Distillery and Frosted Artistry have both closed. Plans for a new Chipotle at May River Crossing in Bluffton are currently under review.
Southern comfort is having a moment across the Lowcountry, with chefs leaning into the rich, familiar flavors that never go out of style. From slow-simmered staples to coastal classics, these dishes deliver warmth, nostalgia and a true taste of home.
DOCKSIDE INDULGENCE
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks leans into bold flavor with its Reel Deal Shrimp, beer-braised and bathed in a buttery, garlicky New Orleans-style BBQ broth made for soaking up with crusty bread.
ELEVATED TRADITION
At The Quarterdeck, deviled crab cakes get a refined twist, paired with Sea Island red pea and corn hash and finished with a bright beurre blanc.
SLOW AND SOULFUL
At Ruby Lee’s, oxtail stew is all about patience and payoff. Tender, fall-off-thebone meat served over rice with collard greens makes for a deeply comforting, stick-to-your-ribs meal.
CLASSIC COMBO
The meat and three at One Hot Mama’s is Southern comfort, plated. Think fried pork chop with dirty rice, lima beans and okra, plus a slice of jalapeño cornbread to round it out.
CRISPY BITE
Fried green tomatoes at SliderBar get a bold upgrade with jalapeño pimento cheese and a drizzle of hot pepper jelly. Crispy, tangy and just indulgent enough.
SWEET CLASSIC
Fresh South Carolina peaches take center stage in Cahill’s Market’s peach cobbler, a warm, comforting dessert that captures the essence of Southern baking.
WWMD
What would Margaret drink?
Afternoon delight
EXPERIENCE A SOUTHERN FRENCH WHITE MADE FOR ROCKING CHAIRS AND SECOND POURS
nNothing embodies southern comfort quite like an afternoon relaxing on the porch, savoring the gentle breeze off the water and good company. It’s the heart of southern hospitality, a place where friends gather, stories are shared and the worries of the day fade away. To pair with these moments, an easygoing white wine fondly dubbed a “porch pounder” is essential. Enter Klara White Blend, a perfectly balanced white from southern France, organically and sustainably produced.
Klara White Blend is bright, crisp and refreshing. It’s the ideal wine to beat the heat and enjoy outdoors, with its light body and vibrant flavor profile. You’ll find notes of citrus, green apple and a hint of honeysuckle, bringing refreshing complexity without overwhelming the palate. This blend is versatile, made from Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc, and is perfect on its own or paired with classic southern snacks, from fried chicken to pimento cheese dip.
White Blend from southern France is made for May. Floral notes of linden and honey meet ripe pear, apricot and quince, while a hint of salinity keeps it bright and refreshing. Priced around $18 to $30, it’s an easy, porch-perfect pour for slow, sunlit afternoons.
Whether you’re hosting an impromptu gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, this wine invites you to slow down and savor life’s simple pleasures. So pour yourself a generous glass, settle into your favorite porch chair, and let Klara White Blend be your go-to for southern comfort all season long.
Margaret Pearman, a certified sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers, curates the acclaimed wine list at Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte. For May, she’s pouring a bright, easygoing white that feels right at home on a sunny spring afternoon.
LIGHT, BRIGHT & JUST RIGHT
Klara
Porch pours
LAID-BACK COCKTAILS THAT TASTE LIKE SPRING IN A GLASS
STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM
There is a certain kind of comfort only a Southern spring can deliver. Porch chairs fill, screens swing open and suddenly there is nowhere else you need to be. That same easy rhythm carries into the glass this month, where cocktails lean into peach, watermelon and fresh herbs, brightened with citrus and finished with a clean botanical lift. These seasonal sips from Broad Creek Spirits Group, led by Tony Bagnulo, showcase Hilton Head Island’s Bulrush Gin in a way that feels both refreshing and unmistakably Lowcountry. Unfussy and full of flavor, they are made for slow afternoons, long conversations and warm evenings when summer is just beginning to show its hand.
BROAD CREEK SPIRITS GROUP
Peach Mint Bulrush Gin Slushee
Ripe peaches and garden mint meet in this breezy slushee that tastes like sunshine in a glass. Built on Bulrush Gin and brightened with fresh lemon, it blends sweet, herbal and citrus notes into a smooth, icy sip made for porch lounging. Light, fragrant and endlessly drinkable, it is Southern comfort with a cool twist.
INGREDIENTS
2 ounces Bulrush Gin
1/2 cup sliced fresh peaches
3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup
4-6 mint leaves 1/2 cup ice
DIRECTIONS [1] Blend all ingredients until smooth and slushy. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed. [2] Pour into a chilled glass. [3] Garnish with fresh mint and a peach slice.
BROAD CREEK SPIRITS GROUP
Watermelon Bulrush Gin Gimlet
Clean, crisp and quietly refreshing, this cocktail captures the ease of a southern evening. Fresh watermelon and lime keep it bright, while mint adds a soft herbal note that lingers just enough. It is simple, balanced and effortlessly cool, the kind of drink that never begs for attention but earns it anyway.
INGREDIENTS
2 ounces Bulrush Gin
1/2 cup fresh-cut watermelon
3/4 ounce fresh lime juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup
4-5 mint leaves
DIRECTIONS [1] Muddle watermelon in a shaker until juicy. [2] Add remaining ingredients with ice and shake well. [3] Double-strain into a chilled coupe. [4] Garnish with a watermelon wedge.
Raised right
iQUINTESSENTIAL SOUTHERN COCKTAILS AND HOW TO MAKE THEM AT HOME
STORY BY LANCE HANLIN
In the South, a good drink is never rushed. It’s poured as the light fades, passed across a porch rail or set down beside a plate no one is quite finished with yet. Trends come and go, but these are the cocktails that stay. They show up at Derby parties, after long beach days and during quiet evenings when the only plan is to sit a while longer. Simple by design and built on quality ingredients, they rely on balance, tradition and a little bit of hospitality in every glass.
Pro Tip
Pro Tip
Mint Julep
The official sip of Derby Day
Clap the mint before garnishing. The aroma is half the experience.
Frosty, fragrant and unapologetically simple, the Mint Julep is ritual in a glass. Synonymous with Derby Day, it is less about innovation and more about getting it just right. Keep it local by pouring Burnt Church Distillery Anita’s Choice Bourbon from Bluffton, named for Lowcountry native, photographer and suffragist Anita Pollitzer. It is a meaningful nod to place in a drink that already knows how to tell a story.
INGREDIENTS
2 oz Anita’s Choice Bourbon
1/2 oz simple syrup
8-10 fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
Crushed ice
Old Fashioned
Skip the extras. With a high-end bourbon like Jimmy Red, simplicity is the point.
A Southern classic, done right
There is nothing flashy about an Old Fashioned, and that is exactly the point. Built slowly over ice with a careful hand, it lets the bourbon do the talking. Here that means High Wire Distilling Co.’s Jimmy Red Bourbon from Charleston, made from heirloom Jimmy Red corn that brings a richer, slightly nutty depth to the glass.
INGREDIENTS
2 oz Jimmy Red Bourbon
1/4 oz simple syrup (or 1 sugar cube)
2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
Large ice cube
Orange peel
DIRECTIONS Add simple syrup and bitters to a rocks glass. Stir briefly. Add bourbon and a large ice cube, then stir for 20-30 seconds. Express an orange peel over the glass, run it along the rim and drop it in.
DIRECTIONS Gently muddle the mint with simple syrup, just enough to release the oils. Fill halfway with crushed ice, add bourbon and stir briefly. Pack more ice on top, and stir until the glass turns frosty. Garnish and serve immediately.
Pro Tip
Serve it neat. No ice. Let the whiskey lead from the first sip.
Sazerac
Bold, aromatic and steeped in Southern tradition
Dark, complex and unmistakably refined, the Sazerac is less a cocktail and more a statement. It is built with intention, layered with spice and finished with a bright twist of citrus. This version uses 13th Colony Distillery’s Cask Strength Rye Whiskey from Americus, Georgia, for a bold backbone that stands up to every element in the glass.
INGREDIENTS
2 oz 13th Colony Cask Strength Rye Whiskey 1 sugar cube (or 1/4 oz simple syrup) 2-3 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
Absinthe (for rinsing)
Lemon peel
DIRECTIONS Chill a rocks glass, rinse with absinth, and discard excess. In a mixing glass, muddle sugar and bitters, add rye and ice, then stir until chilled. Strain into the prepared glass. Express lemon peel over the drink, and discard or drop in.
Bluffton’s Only Dining with a Water View
With sweeping views of the May River, Bu alos serves American classics for lunch and dinner, as well as brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Located in Palmetto Blu ’s charming Wilson Village, it’s an ideal setting to watch the comings and goings of the water.
Reservations encouraged.
MONTAGE.COM (843) 706-5455
Pro Tip
Brandy Milk Punch
Silky, spiced and quietly indulgent
Whole milk gives the drink its signature richness.
Soft, smooth and just a little decadent, this is comfort in a glass. It feels right at any hour, especially the ones that linger. ASW Distillery’s Armour & Oak Apple Brandy from Atlanta brings subtle fruit and warmth that pairs beautifully with cream and spice.
INGREDIENTS
2 oz Armour & Oak Apple Brandy
3 oz whole milk
1/2 oz simple syrup
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ice
Fresh nutmeg
DIRECTIONS Shake all ingredients with ice until chilled and slightly frothy. Strain over fresh ice or serve up. Finish with freshly grated nutmeg.
Pro Tip
Tap the rosemary before adding it. The aroma elevates the entire drink.
Sweet Tea Citrus Spritz
Light, herbal and unmistakably Lowcountry
This starts with the South’s unofficial drink and gives it a fresh, modern lift. Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka, crafted on Wadmalaw Island near Charleston, brings a smooth, familiar base, while citrus and rosemary add brightness and depth.
INGREDIENTS
2 oz Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka
1 oz fresh lime juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
2-3 oz club soda
Ice Lime wheel
Fresh rosemary
DIRECTIONS Fill a glass with ice. Add vodka, lime juice and simple syrup. Top with club soda, and stir gently. Garnish with lime and rosemary.
Alabama Slammer
Bright, bold and built for a good time
Originally a college-town favorite, and it still behaves like one. Bright, citrusy and just a little over the top, this is a drink that leans into fun. Southern Comfort, born in New Orleans, brings its smooth, fruit-forward character to the forefront.
INGREDIENTS
1 oz Southern Comfort
1 oz sloe gin
1 oz amaretto
2 oz orange juice
Splash of grenadine Ice Orange slice
DIRECTIONS Shake all ingredients except grenadine with ice. Strain over fresh ice, add a splash of grenadine and garnish.
Whiskey Sour
Smooth, citrusy and finished with a silky crown
A proper Whiskey Sour is all about balance. Bright citrus, soft sweetness and a smooth whiskey backbone come together under a velvety foam. This version uses Bluffton Whiskey from Burnt Church Distillery, offering a rich, slightly sweet base that pairs beautifully with fresh lemon.
INGREDIENTS
2 oz Bluffton Whiskey
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
1 egg white Ice
Dried citrus wheel
DIRECTIONS Dry shake all ingredients without ice to build foam. Add ice and shake again until chilled. Strain over fresh ice, or serve up. Garnish with dried citrus and optional bitters.
L M A
on SUNDAY MAY 17TH 2 - 4PM
Pro Tip
Fresh orange juice keeps it from tipping too sweet.
Pro Tip
Do not skip the dry shake. That silky top is what makes the drink.
A cause worth fighting for
Ahead of Concert for the Heroes, MMA legend Randy Couture reflects on military life, motorcycles and finding meaning beyond the octagon
STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM
tThere’s something unexpectedly disarming about hopping on a call with Randy Couture and finding him mid-fight. Not in a cage, but battling a stubborn nosebleed with a tissue stuffed up his nose. He laughs it off. Years of broken noses, dry desert air at his Arizona ranch — nothing he can’t handle. Just like that, whatever intimidation you might expect from a six-time UFC champion fades fast.
Couture, known to fans as “The Natural,” is one of the most accomplished mixed martial artists in the sport’s history. A six-time champion across two weight classes and a member of the UFC Hall of Fame, he has spent much of his life pushing limits. Since stepping away from competition in 2011, he has built an equally dynamic second act as an actor, entrepreneur, author and founder of the Xtreme Couture GI Foundation, which supports wounded veterans and their families. That mission is what brings him to the Lowcountry this month.
BUILT TO BLAST Couture brought brains and brawn to the big screen as Toll Road in The Expendables 3 (2014), earning praise for his convincing physical presence and holding his own alongside an all-star action cast.
A KNOCKOUT MOMENT
Couture celebrates his TKO victory over Gabriel Gonzaga at UFC 74 in 2007.
Kathy Nolan & Sean Nolan
Members
happenings
Couture will be in town as a special guest for Operation: Ride for the Heroes and the 5th annual Concert for the Heroes, a full day of events benefiting Operation Patriots FOB. The inaugural ride will take participants on a 75-mile escorted route through the Lowcountry before ending at OPFOB’s Ridgeland property, where the evening continues with a benefit concert headlined by Lee Brice, with Jerrod Niemann, Craig Campbell and Rick Trevino also taking the stage.
For Couture, it is a natural fit, pun intended. A U.S. Army veteran who reached the rank of sergeant in the 101st Airborne, he has spent years advocating for those facing the often difficult return to civilian life. His foundation, like OPFOB, is built on connection, community and the belief that no veteran should have to navigate that road alone.
Over the course of our conversation, Couture moves easily between stories of motorcycles and movie sets, hard-earned lessons and a few self-deprecating laughs. These days, however, his focus is clear: showing up for fellow veterans and making sure that long after the spotlight fades, no one is left behind.
STATEMENT VICTORY
[LOCAL Life] We understand you’re planning a bike run for the upcoming Concert for the Heroes. Can you share a few details about that and how it came together?
[Randy Couture] I attended the OPFOB event with Clay Walker last year and had an incredible experience. I was there with Four Branches Bourbon, which I represent, alongside a group of veterans. Everything about the weekend, from the people to the purpose, just clicked for me. So when JR [OPFOB founder Roy Brown] reached out about coming back, it was an easy yes. Once he learned more about my foundation and the work we do, the idea of adding a ride came up. We’re teaming up with a local motorcycle group to organize an escorted ride from Savannah to the event, which is always a special experience. However many bikes show up, that’s how long the line will be rolling in together, and there’s something powerful about that kind of shared momentum heading into an event like this.
[LL] Why does supporting this cause matter so much to you personally?
[RC] Because at 19 years old, I took that oath. I joined the Army, and that experience fundamentally changes you. It’s not something you just switch off later in life. Those years were incredibly formative for me, and in many ways they shaped the person I became. After 9/11, I felt a strong pull to reconnect with that community, and I had opportunities to visit troops overseas in Iraq and later spend time at Walter Reed with wounded service members. Seeing firsthand what they were dealing with, not just physically but financially and emotionally, was a turning point. It made me realize I needed to do more, which led me to start my foundation. At the end of the day, if we can help ease that transition and take even a little pressure off these men and women, it’s worth everything.
[LL] What lessons from your time in service still guide you today?
[RC] The military instills a deep sense of accountability and attention to detail. You learn quickly that those things matter. You’re trained to stay focused on the mission and push through just about anything to get the job done. But there’s also a downside to that conditioning, because you’re not taught to show vulnerability or ask for help, and that can become a real obstacle later on. Even so, the camaraderie and shared understanding among service members never leave you. Nobody gives other service members a hard time quite like fellow service members do, but underneath that there’s a bond. At the end of the day, we’re all standing on the same foundation, the Constitution we swore to uphold and protect. That connection is hard to explain unless you’ve lived it, and it continues to influence how I approach both my personal life and my work with veterans.
Couture celebrates his victory over Tim Sylvia during UFC 68 in 2007 at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio.
FINAL PREP Couture gets his hands wrapped by legendary cutman Jacob “Stitch” Duran before his 2008 clash with Brock Lesnar at UFC 91 in Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena.
Meet our new clinicians in your neighborhood.
We are committed to providing expert care close to home. Whether you are looking for a primary care clinician or a specialist, Novant Health is the neighbor you can count on. Let us care for all your healthcare needs.
Family medicine
Cindy Steinberg, MD
Hilton Head Island
Novant Health Hilton Head Primary Care
843-682-2004
Internal medicine
Tore Flavin, FNP
Bluffton
Novant Health New Riverside Primary Care
854-235-2840
Vascular surgery
Christopher Wixon, MD Bluffton
Novant Health Heart & Vascular - Persimmon
854-235-2810
Internal medicine
Kyle McMillen, DO Bluffton
Novant Health New Riverside Primary Care
854-235-2840
Interventional cardiology
Donald Yakel Jr., MD
Hilton Head Island & Okatie
Novant Health Heart & Vascular - Physicians Plaza
843-682-2800
Vascular surgery
Melissa Brown, FNP-C Bluffton
Novant Health Heart & Vascular - Persimmon
854-235-2810
Internal medicine
Paige Wooten, AGPCNP-BC
Bluffton
Novant Health Westbury Park Primary Care
854-235-2830
Cardiology
Vicki Wild-McLeod, NP-C
Hilton Head Island & Okatie
Novant Health Heart & Vascular - Physicians Plaza
843-682-2800
Internal medicine
Karen Henrichsen, DO Bluffton
Novant Health Buckwalter Place Primary Care
854-278-2760
Electrophysiology
Mark Liwanag, DO
Hilton Head Island
Novant Health Heart & VascularPhysicians Plaza
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Find your care team at NovantHealth.org/Doctors
happenings
[LL] What do civilians often misunderstand about the transition back to civilian life?
[RC] I don’t think people fully grasp the level of sacrifice involved or how deeply those experiences change you. It’s not just time away from family. It’s the reality of training for and sometimes experiencing combat, and everything that comes with that. You’ve essentially written a check with your life in service to something bigger than yourself, and that doesn’t just disappear when you come home. The transition back into civilian life can be incredibly challenging, especially when you’re trying to process everything you’ve seen and done. It’s not always visible from the outside, which is why it’s so often misunderstood.
[LL] Motorcycles are clearly an important part of your life. What does riding give you, both personally and mentally?
[RC] When I was 12 years old, my parents won a little Yamaha 80 in a raffle, and it became my bike. I quickly broke off the turn signals, pulled the baffle out of the exhaust pipe so it was louder and started tearing around the dirt roads. That became a happy place. The rest of the world went away when I was on that bike. When you’re riding, everything else fades: the stress, the noise, the distractions. You’re completely present in that moment. There’s a real connection there, especially for veterans, because it offers a kind of mental reset. That sense of focus and freedom is powerful, and it’s one reason motorcycle events have become such an important part of what we do. It’s not just about the ride. It’s about what the ride does for people while they’re on it. That’s how we gravitated toward motorcycle poker runs. This year XCGIF will host five rides in different cities around the country.
[LL] How did the discipline and mindset required in wrestling and MMA prepare you for life beyond competition?
[RC] That mindset really started with wrestling when I was a kid, and it carried through into fighting later on. Wrestling teaches discipline, resilience and how to solve problems under pressure, and those lessons apply far beyond the mat. Fighting just amplified that. It’s intense, it’s physical, and you’re going to get your butt kicked
RANCH LIFE Away from the roar of the crowd, Couture finds his rhythm among horses and open skies on his Arizona ranch.
on occasion. That’s life in a nutshell. You get out of it exactly what you put into it. The key is how you respond when things don’t go your way. That’s something I’ve carried into every aspect of my life. You learn that effort matters, setbacks are part of the process, and perseverance is what ultimately gets you through.
[LL] Your acting career took you in a very different direction. What attracted you to that challenge, and what surprised you most about it?
FROM SERVICE TO STARDOM
Captured in his Army years, Couture (center, in shades) served as a sergeant in the 101st Airborne Division before becoming a UFC legend.
SUPPORT THE CAUSE
OPERATION: RIDE FOR THE HEROES
When: 1:30-5 p.m., May 9
Where: Savannah Harley-Davidson (Savannah) to Operation Patriots FOB (Ridgeland)
Details: Start the day with a 75-mile escorted scenic motorcycle ride through Georgia and South Carolina with special guest rider Randy Couture. $25 per bike and $10 per passenger. Register online at xcgif.org
5TH ANNUAL CONCERT FOR THE HEROES
When: 7-11 p.m., May 9
Where: Operation Patriots FOB (Ridgeland)
Details: Attend the annual concert featuring Lee Brice as headliner, with Jerrod Niemann, Craig Campbell and Rick Trevino also performing. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $80 and can be purchased online at opfob.org
[RC] Like a lot of things in my life, the opportunity presented itself, and I had to decide whether I wanted to walk through that door or not. In the early 2000s I got a call from the UFC, and they wanted some authentic cage fighters for a movie called Cradle 2 the Grave with DMX and Jet Li. They called me, Chuck [Liddell] and Tito [Ortiz] for that film, and all three of us said yes, we’d love to try it. That experience opened my eyes to a completely different world, and I found it really interesting. I started taking acting classes, got representation and eventually began landing more roles. It’s been a unique journey, especially coming from a background where I spent years suppressing emotion as an athlete, only to step into a profession where you’re expected to express it openly.
[LL] When people attend the Concert for the Heroes, what do you hope they walk away feeling or understanding after hearing your story?
[RC] I hope they walk away with a sense of connection, whether that’s to the veteran community or to the mission itself. For veterans, I want them to know they’re not alone, that there’s a network of people who understand what they’re going through and are ready to support them. And for everyone else, I hope it creates a deeper appreciation for that community and the challenges they face. At the end of the day, it’s about bringing people together and reminding each other that we’re all in this together. LL
happenings
Arts & Culture
Terpsichore, Too
When: 7 p.m., May 8-9
Where: Seahawk Cultural Center
Details: A polished and energetic showcase where rising dancers take the stage. Expect a mix of graceful ballet and expressive contemporary pieces that highlight the next generation of local talent. hiltonheaddance.com
OTHER EVENTS
Eloise: Times vary, May 9
May Palmetto Bluff Artist in Residence
When: Times vary, May 6-9
Where: FLOW Gallery + Workshop
Details: Not your average workshop. Join celebrated mixologist Tiffanie Barriere for a hands-on experience that blends craft cocktails with storytelling, technique and a little bit of showmanship. palmettobluff.com
Hilton Head Island Art Festival
When: Times vary, May 22-24
Where: Shelter Cove
Harbour & Marina
Details: Three days, one beautiful harbor and more art than you can take in on a single lap. Grab a drink, a bite, and let the live music carry you from booth to booth. hiltonheadartfestival.com
Whispers from the Soul
When: Times vary, May 19-June 19
Where: Art League of Hilton Head Gallery
Details: Step into a quieter, more reflective space with Theresa King’s latest work. Rich in emotion and detail, this is the kind of exhibit that invites you to slow down and take a second look. Opening reception 5-7 p.m., May 20. artleaguehhi.org
OTHER EVENTS
Layers of Life: Times vary, now-May 15
Seussical, Jr.
When: Times vary, May 15-17
Where: USCB Center for the Arts
Details: Bright, playful and full of heart, this family-friendly production brings Dr. Seuss favorites together in a colorful world where imagination leads the way. uscbcenterforthearts.com
OTHER EVENTS
Taste of the Arts: Juried Exhibition: Times vary, May 1-June 10
YOU DID IT AGAIN
happenings
Charity & Community Arts & Culture
The Shark is Broken
When: Times vary, May 15-24
Where: Main Street Theater
Details: What really happened behind the scenes of Jaws? This witty, fast-paced play dives into the tension, humor and egos that shaped one of cinema’s most iconic films. leanensemble.org
Hairspray
When: Times vary, now-May 24
Where: Arts Center of Coastal Carolina
Details: Big hair, big laughs and a feel-good story that still resonates. This high-energy favorite promises catchy songs, colorful characters and a message that sticks after the curtain call. artshhi.com
OTHER EVENTS
An Evening with Mentalist Matt Cooper: 4 & 7:30 p.m., May 18
OTHER ARTS & CULTURE EVENTS
Now-May 8: Annual High School Art Show at the Bluffton Public Library
Now-May 17: Nikon’s Small World Photo Competition Exhibit at the Coastal Discovery Museum
Now-June 20: The History and Archaeology of Fort Motte at the Morris Heritage Center
Now-Oct. 23: All Creatures Great and Small at the Sea Pines Community Center
May 1-17: Steel Magnolias at Coligny Theatre
May 1-June 27: Water Water Everywhere at the Beaufort Art Association Gallery
May 7-9: Alice in Wonderland Jr. at Hilton Head
Preparatory School
May 9: Second Saturday Sips at Maye River Gallery
May 12: Lower School Spring Arts Showcase at Hilton Head Christian Academy
Mayfest 2026
When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., May 9
Where: Historic Downtown Bluffton
Details: One of Bluffton’s most beloved traditions returns for its 46th year, bringing the town to life with local art, live music, great food and that unmistakable small-town energy. Come for a quick stroll, and you’ll likely stay all afternoon. blufftonrotary.org
NOTABLE EVENTS
Pie-Eating Contest: 11:30 a.m. at Dubois Park Pavilion
Ugly Dog Contest: 1 p.m. at the Heyward House
Wine Down Wednesday
When: 5-7 p.m., May 6
Where: Village at Wexford
Details: Midweek plans solved. Sip your way through Wexford with wine tastings, live music and in-store specials, all while supporting the Hilton Head Humane Association. Easy, social and for a good cause. villageatwexford.com
Original Gullah Festival
When: May 22-24
Where: Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
Details: This longtime celebration of Gullah culture fills the waterfront with music, storytelling and incredible food. Expect jazz, blues and African drumming, plus a chance to experience traditions that continue to shape the Lowcountry today. gullahfestival.org
OTHER CHARITY & COMMUNITY EVENTS
May 9: Renegade Paws Rescue Adoption Event at Petco Bluffton
May 14: Beaufort-Jasper VIM 9th Annual Bourbon & Bubbly Gala at Hewitt Oaks
May 15: Town of Bluffton Movie Night at Martin Family Park
May 16: The Lafayette Soirée at Historic Beaufort Foundation
May 17: Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue May Carnival at Fire Station 1
May 17: IACHH Italian Sunday Dinner at St. Francis by the Sea Catholic Church
May 17: Salsa in the Park at Naval Heritage Park
May 30: For the Love of Summer Annual Community Event at Martin Family Park
Photo:
Food & Drink happenings
Hilton Head Olive Oils & Balsamics events
Learn how to elevate everyday cooking with hands-on classes that are as fun as they are flavorful. From perfecting dressings to experimenting with bold new combinations, these sessions are made for curious home cooks. hiltonheadoils.com
UPCOMING EVENTS
The Flavor Lab: 1 p.m., Wednesdays
Salad Dressing 101: 1 p.m., Thursdays
Olive Oil Masterclass: 1 p.m., Fridays
Rollers events
Your weekly excuse to discover a new favorite bottle. These casual tastings make it easy to sip, learn and stock up, whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just in it for a good time. rollerswineandspirits.com
Details: A five-course experience led by executive chef Craig de Villiers, paired with Cakebread Cellars wines and insights from guest speaker Niki Williams. A must for Cakebread lovers. wiseguyshhi.com
WeAreInvested In:
•YourReal
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Ken &Clay Provide:
• ExemplaryService
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Food & Drink happenings
LEGACY OF IMPACT
At Community Foundation of the Lowcountry (CFL), we make charitable giving simple, personal, and powerful. With over 30 years of trusted service, CFL connects generous people with causes that matterright here in the Lowcountry.
When you partner with CFL, you have the opportunity to choose flexible charitable fund options and witness the tangible results of your philanthropic efforts.
Contact Community Foundation of the Lowcountry at 843-681-9100 or visit cf-lowcountry.org to learn how your generosity can create lasting change!
To support CFL’s grantmaking in the four-county region, please scan the QR code.
Culinary events at The Sea Pines Resort
From curated wine dinners to lively tap takeovers, this lineup offers something for every palate. Go hungry and thirsty. seapines.com/events
UPCOMING EVENTS
Links Somm Series: Meet Cakebread Cellars Winemaker Niki Williams: 5 p.m., May 6, Links, An American Grill
Long Meadow Ranch Wine Dinner: 6:30 p.m., May 14, Harbour Town Clubhouse Tap Takeover: 5-8 p.m., May 19, Fraser’s Tavern
Yappy Hour
When: 4-6 p.m., May 6
Where: Nectar Bluffton
Details: Good food, live music and adoptable pups. Bring your friends, meet a few furry ones, and support the Hilton Head Humane Association while you’re at it. nectarfarmkitchen.com
Shafer Vineyards Wine Dinner
When: 6-9 p.m., May 21 Where: Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar
Details: A refined evening of standout wines and thoughtfully paired dishes, with plenty of conversation to match. Ideal for those who like their dinners a little more elevated. alexandersrestaurant.com
DREAM IN PARADISE!
YOU CAN’T STOP THE BEAT!
In 1962 Baltimore, Tracy Turnblad has big hair and even bigger dreams: dancing on TV and winning the heart of teen idol Link Larkin. After becoming a local star, Tracy uses her fame to fight for integration—all without denting her “do.” Hairspray is an irresistible, feel-good musical guaranteed to have you dancing!
happenings Food & Drink
Rombauer Vineyards Wine Dinner
When: 6 p.m., May 14
Where: Nectar Bluffton
Details: Expect bold wines, a thoughtfully crafted menu and a lively evening hosted by Rombauer’s Amelia Rauzin, alongside chef Adam Marshall. Come ready to indulge. nectarfarmkitchen.com
Prepare to be amazed, amused, and completely ba ed. World-class mentalist Matt Cooper invites you into a thrilling, high-energy show where the secrets of the human mind are brought to the stage.
JUN 8 – JUL 24
OTHER FOOD & DRINK EVENTS
May 5: Welcome to Alba — May Wine Dinner at Chez Georges
May 7 & 21: The Art of Tiki Cocktails Class
May 8: Cinco’s Last Call Tequila Tasting at Captain Woody’s Hilton Head
May 9 & 29: The Art of Pasta Making at TCL Culinary Institute of the South
May 9: Momosa Brunch at Hewitt Oaks
May 10: Mother’s Day Brunch at Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
May 10: Mother’s Day at Skull Creek Dockside
May 10: Barre to the Bar at Shellring Ale Work
May 12: Women Winemakers Dinner at Alfred’s Restaurant
Summertime fun is ahead for ages 6+ with the Arts Center’s creative, action-packed summer camps. Dive in and create your ultimate summer with themed crafts and meaningful skill-building projects!
May 15: Fridays at the FOODseum: Oysters of the Coosaw River at TCL Culinary Institute of the South
May 16: The Lot 9 Anniversary Bash at Lot 9 Brewing Co.
May 21: Cigar Night at Shellring Ale Works
May 21: Chef in Residence Dinner Series at May River Manor
May 26-June 5: Pop-Up Southern Tea Room at Praise Assembly in Beaufort
May 30: Lowcountry Boil at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
WEEKLY FOOD EVENTS
Tuesdays: Battles & Bread at Wine Time Bluffton
Wednesdays: Pasta Night at Wine Time Bluffton
Wednesdays: Wine Tasting at Wine Time Washington Square
Thursdays: Featured Wine Tasting at Wine Time Bluffton
Thursdays: Pint Night at Fraser’s Tavern
Thursdays & Fridays: Private Latte Art Class at Origin Coffee Bar HHI
Fridays: Friday Uncorked at Windhorse Gallery & Marketplace
Sundays: Mimosas & Melodies at Windhorse Gallery & Marketplace
Markets & Shopping
FARMERS AND ART MARKETS
Enjoy the local flavors of the Lowcountry with some of these regular farmers' and art markets:
Bluffton Farmers Market:
12-4 p.m., Thursdays, 68 Boundary St.
Hilton Head Island Farmers Market:
9 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesdays, Coastal Discovery Museum
Port Royal Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-noon, Saturdays, Naval Heritage Park
5-8 p.m., first Friday of each month, Downtown Beaufort
Hilton Head Community Market: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Saturdays, Shelter Cove Community Park
Habersham Farmers Market:
4-7 p.m., Fridays, Habersham Marketplace in Beaufort
Farmers & Fishermen Sunset Market at Savannah Harbour:
4:30-8:30 p.m., 1st, 3rd & 5th Saturdays, Hutchinson Island
Side Hustle Brewing Co. Farmers Market:
1-5 p.m., third Sunday of each month, Side Hustle Brewing Co.
Second Saturday Shop & Stroll: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., second Saturday of each month, The Shops of Paris Avenue
First Thursday Artisan Alley: 3-6 p.m., first Thursday of each month, Shops at Sea Pines Center
Sip and Shop: Local Artisan & Makers Market: 12-5 p.m., May 24, Burnt Church Distillery
Spring Tingz Maket’: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., May 9, Ma Daisy’s Porch
COASTAL
Tavia Osterstock, L.E.
May 6th
5-7pm
FOR A CAUSE
Proceeds to bene t
Hilton Head Humane
Improving the lives of homeless dogs and cats while also working to substantially lower the numbers of animals reproduced or relinquished.
Enjoy wine tastings at participating merchants
Special promotions, Live music & more
Tickets available online at villageatwexford.com
$15 per person
Limited tickets available day of event $20
Lectures & Classes
Art League Hilton Head classes
Looking for a creative reset? These hands-on workshops at the Art League Academy offer a fun way to learn something new, make something beautiful and maybe discover a hidden talent in the process. For a complete list of classes, visit artleaguehhi.org
Resin Casting: Jewelry, Dog Tags, Keychains & More: 9:30 a.m., May 15
Wine & Design: Mosaics Edition: 5 p.m., May 28
Restorative Medicine Seminar
When: Noon-1 p.m., Tuesdays
Where: Fraum Center for Restorative Health
Details: Bring your questions and your appetite. This free lunchtime seminar covers the latest in restorative medicine, with insight into noninvasive options that may help the body heal itself and ease chronic pain. fraum.com
SOBA art classes
Whether you are picking up a brush for the first time or getting back into the studio, these featured classes at the SOBA Gallery offer a great excuse to get creative. For a complete list, visit sobagallery.com
UPCOMING CLASSES
Introduction to Watercolor: 10 a.m., May 7
Acrylic Painting: Marshes of the Lowcountry: 12:30 p.m., May 6, 13 & 20
OTHER LECTURES & CLASSES
LIBRARIES FOR KIDS INTERNATIONAL EVENTS
SCAN FOR TICKETS
May 18: Author Series: Laura Elizabeth HILTON HEAD AUDUBON EVENTS
May 30: Certified Bird & Wildlife Habitat Ribbon Cutting & Celebration at HH PSD
COASTAL DISCOVERY MUSEUM EVENTS
May 23: Sweet Basket Workshop BEAUFORT COUNTY LIBRARY EVENTS
May 6: Composting, Food Waste Drop-Off Program at the Bluffton Branch
May 21: Beaufort Strummers Community Jam at the Beaufort Branch
May 28: Revolutionary Roots at the Hilton Head Branch WACHH EVENTS
May 8: Linda Weissgold: Seeing the World Through an Intelligence Lens PAT CONROY LITERARY CENTER EVENTS
Perfectly positioned on a beautiful homesite overlooking the 16th green, this stunning 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath residence offers over 5,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space and a rare level of privacy and tranquility. Every detail reflects quality, from the extensive high-end woodworking and custom trim throughout to the show-stopping great room featuring a striking custom cupola domed ceiling that creates both grandeur and warmth. The expansive screened back porch is a true highlight, complete with a built-in grill and fireplaceperfect for enjoying Lowcountry evenings while taking in serene golf views. The seamless indoor-outdoor flow continues to a beautifully finished paver patio, offering even more space to relax and gather. Inside, the layout offers incredible bedroom separation, providing comfort and privacy for family and guests alike. Each bedroom is generously sized with its own en-suite bath, while additional features like climate-controlled storage and a spacious 3-car garage add convenience and functionality. This is one you truly need to experience in person to fully appreciate the craftsmanship, condition, and setting.
Richard MacDonald (843) 384-8797
richard@rmacdonald.com
Joey Doyle (843) 290-5055
joeydoyle@charteronerealty.com
Sanders MacDonald (843) 816-4800
sanders@charteronerealty.com
CORE AERATIONS
• Improved air exchange between soil and atmosphere
• Improved drainage and soil water rate absorption
• Improved fertilizer uptake and use
• Stronger turfgrass roots and root growth
• Reduced soil compaction
• Reduction of the thatch layer
• Healthier more durable lawn
• Allows room for grass to fill in thicker
ORGANIC TOP DRESSING
• Increased growth and color of your lawn
• Reintroduces micro-organisms and organic matter back into your lawn
• Reduces stress fromfoot traffic
• Helps lawn fill into thinner areas
• Helps retain nutrients in soil and delivers them to the plant.
LAWN LEVELING
• Sand helps to fill in low spots, prevent waterlogging, and promote healthier, more resilient turf.
• Aids in breaking down thatch and improving soil aeration.
ALSO OFFERING
Weed Control • Insect Control • Fertilization Disease Management and More
Music & Entertainment
Music & Taste
When: 6-9 p.m., May 7 & 14
Where: Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
Details: One of the best ways to spend a spring evening. Grab a drink, sample local bites, and let the music carry you onto the dance floor as the sun sets over the harbor. sheltercovehiltonhead.com
BAND LINEUP
May 7: Target & Headliner Horns May 14: Deas Guyz
Celebrate America
When: 7 p.m., May 24
Where: First Presbyterian Church
Details: A moving season finale from the Hilton Head Choral Society, honoring the men and women who have served through a powerful program of patriotic music. hiltonheadchoralsociety.org
Gregg Russell Spring Concerts
When: 8-9:30 p.m., Monday-Saturday starting May 21 (except May 25-26) Where: Harbour Town
Details: A Lowcountry tradition under the Liberty Oak. Bring the family, grab a seat on the grass, and enjoy an evening of sing-alongs, stories and timeless tunes with a Hilton Head favorite. seapines.com
OTHER MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS
May 6: Middle School & Upper School Spring Concert and Art Walk at Hilton Head Christian Academy
May 9 & 23: Street Music of Paris Avenue in Beaufort
May 15: Bluffton Sunset Palooza at Bluffton Oyster Factory Park
May 11: Montessori Musical Recital at Hilton Head Preparatory School May 24: Drivin' N Cryin' at Shellring Ale Works
Regular live music venues
Life is better with music, so why not enjoy live music every day of the week?
Check their websites and Facebook pages for details.
DAILY SHOWS
Brother Shucker’s Coast, Oceanfront Dining
Coligny Center Stage
Fishcamp on Broad Creek
FISH Casual Coastal Seafood
Frosty Frog
Harbourside
Kind of Blue
Lincoln & South Brewing Company
Luther’s Rare & Well Done
Quarterdeck
Ruby Lee’s
San Miguel’s
Scott’s Fish Market
Skull Creek Boathouse
The Boardroom
The Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek
The Jazz Corner
The Salty Dog Cafe
The Sandbar Beach Eats
The Studio
Tiki Hut
MORE GREAT SPOTS (SELECT NIGHTS)
A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant (Mondays-Fridays)
Agave (Thursdays-Saturdays)
Big Bamboo Cafe (Mondays-Saturdays)
Black Marlin Bayside Grill & Hurricane Bar (Wednesdays-Saturdays)
Bluffton Oyster Co. Family Seafood House (Fridays & Saturdays)
Burnt Church Distillery (Thursdays-Saturdays)
Captain Woody’s Bluffton (Tuesdays)
Celeste (Fridays & Saturdays)
Cheap Seats Tavern 2 (Fridays)
Chophouse 119 (Fridays)
Hilton Head Brewing Co. (Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays)
Hop Dog (Fridays)
Island Winery (Saturdays)
Lot 9 Brewing Company (Saturdays)
Nectar Farm Kitchen in Old Town Bluffton (Fridays-Sundays)
Okàn (Thursdays and Saturdays)
Pomodori Too! (Thursdays-Saturdays)
Red Fish (Tuesdays-Saturdays)
Reilley’s Grill & Bar (Wednesdays-Fridays & Sundays)
Rollers Wine & Spirits (Tuesdays & Thursdays)
Santa Fe Cafe (Wednesdays-Saturdays)
Shellring Ale Works (Fridays-Sundays)
Sprout Momma (Wednesdays)
The Clubhouse at Okatie Creek (Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays)
The Dunes House (Mondays-Fridays)
The Rooftop Bar at Poseidon (Wednesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays)
Tio’s Latin American Kitchen Bluffton (Fridays)
Oriental & Specialty Rug Washing
MAY RACES
UPCOMING RACES
PRC Group Run: 7 a.m., May 9, Corner Perk Bluffton District Dash 5K: 9 a.m., May 9, Coligny Beach Park Bluffton May Day 5K: 8 a.m., May 16, Martin Family Park Hilton Head Freedom 5K: 8 a.m., May 25, Port Royal Plantation Turtle Trot 5K: 8 a.m., May 27, Palmetto Dunes (Dunes House)
Palmetto Bluff Conservancy events
Step into the wild side of the Lowcountry with guided experiences that bring you closer to the land, the water and everything that calls it home. From birding to fireflies, these programs make conservation feel personal. Visit palmettobluff.com/conservation for a complete list of events.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Global Big Day: 7 a.m.-1 p.m., May 9
Explore PBC: Firefly Foray: 8:30-10:30 p.m., May 15 Let’s Talk About…Insects!: 12-1 p.m., May 27
OTHER SPORTS & OUTDOORS EVENTS
May 9 & 16: Beaufort Water Festival Fishing Tournament at Beaufort Boat & Supply Dock
May 17: Beaufort Water Festival Sailing Regatta at Beaufort Yacht & Sailing Club
May 17: Special Olympics Area 8 Drive to Inspire Golf Classic at Dolphin Head Golf Club
May 20: Hilton Head Island Ride of Silence beginning at Port Royal Plaza
May 22-24: Stan Smith Super Series at Sea Pines Racquet Club
SAVANNAH EVENTS
May 7: Tracy Lawrence at Johnny Mercer Theatre
May 8: October London at Johnny Mercer Theatre
May 15: Ella Langley at Enmarket Arena
May 15: TEDxSavannah 2026: “Shaping the Future at the Fine Arts Auditorium on Georgia Southern University’s Armstrong Campus
May 16: Chicago the Band at Johnny Mercer Theatre
May 16: Sting at Enmarket Arena
May 17: Flute Wine Festival at Forsyth Park
May 18: Alison Krauss and Union Station at Johnny Mercer Theatre
May 21: 2026 Margaret Gray Thomas Lecture at Telfair Academy
May 29: Foodeefest at Savannah Tanger Outlets
May 30: Nate Bargatze at Enmarket Arena
May 31: Journey at Enmarket Arena
SCAD May events
Check out one of these artistic events this month at the Savannah College of Art and Design, the University of Creative Careers. scad.edu
UPCOMING EVENTS
SCAD Jewelry Trunk Show 2026: May 14-15
SCAD Fashion 2026: May 15
A Courtyard Concert Series at the SCAD MOA: May 21
elebrate
— Memorial Sunday — May 24, 2026 • 7:00 pm
Join the Hilton Head Choral Society as we honor the brave men & women of our Armed Services. In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, this inspiring program features a string quartet, guest musicians, a military speaker, & dramatic readings of authentic service member correspondence presented by Lean Ensemble Theater as the grand nale to our 50th anniversary season.
Dr. Dustin Ousley, Artistic Director Category V Brass from Columbia, SC
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happenings
SAVE THE DATE
June 2: June Southern Estates and Collections Auction at Everard Auctions & Appraisals
June 2: June Wine Dinner at Alfred’s Restaurant
June 3: Palmetto Dunes Turtle Trot 5K at Dunes House
June 4: National Cheese Day at Holy Tequila
June 4-5: Sankofa Nights at USCB Hilton Head Campus
June 5: Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce
Annual Meeting at The Cove
June 5: Annual Fun in the Sun for Everyone at The Marriott Vacation Club International’s SurfWatch Resort
June 5: Mastering the Five Mother Sauces at TCL Culinary Institute of the South
June 5: 5th Annual Black Moses Freedom Festival at Penn Center
June 5: Fast Times at Hilton Head High at Hilton Head High School
TO SHOWCASE AN EVENT
You may be able to post your event for free in our Happenings section. Head to locallifesc.com, click “Contact Us,” and include a title, date, time, location, description, a link to the webpage and photos if possible.
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Local Impact.
Through hands-on service and fundraising, we help provide critical resources, protect our environment, and strengthen lives right here on Hilton Head Island.
HILTON HEAD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA brings world-class music to the Lowcountry, blending timeless artistry with a vibrant, contemporary spirit. From soaring symphonic works to intimate chamber performances, the HHSO engages both longtime patrons and new audiences, creating unforgettable musical experiences. LOCAL Life Insider Tip: Enjoy a pre- or post-concert meal at one of the nearby waterfront restaurants.
7 Lagoon Road, Suite 100, Hilton Head Island • 843.842.2055 • HHSO.org
KAYAK HILTON HEAD Whether experienced or a first-time family group, going on a dolphin kayak tour will likely be a highlight of your vacation. Many dolphins are known by name. Founded in 2001, Kayak Hilton Head's knowledgeable and experienced guides have been showing guests a great time on the waters of Hilton Head for 25 years. LOCAL Life Insider Tip: The early morning tours are our favorite! Reservations recommended. 18 Simmons Road, Hilton Head Island • 843.684.1910 • kayakhiltonhead.com
THE SHOPS AT SEA PINES CENTER Discover one of Hilton Head’s most charming collections of boutiques, galleries and dining. Shopping meets community with signature happenings like the Farmers & Makers Market and First Thursday Artisan Alley bringing the
to
Stroll, browse and experience a
Lowcountry
LOCAL Life Insider Tip: Time your
with the
& Makers Market or Artisan Alley for the
71 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island • 843.363.5699 • theshopsatseapinescenter.com
Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new culinary delights or a family seeking fun and engaging activities, these carefully curated selections of restaurants and activities have something for everyone.
HILTON HEAD OLIVE OILS & BALSAMICS Bring a taste of the Island home. Each day the freshest extra virgin and high-phenol olive oils and uniquely aged balsamics are bottled and available to sample. They make a great gift for someone back home (or you!). LOCAL Life Insider Tip: Don't miss a chance to learn to make fresh salad dressings — a great activity for friends and family — every Thursday.
1000 William Hilton Parkway (Wexford Village) • 843.681.2722 • HiltonHeadOils.com
FIRST TEE — THE LOWCOUNTRY Experience golf on the Island with the only par-3 course — perfect for instruction, children and senior play. Driving range and putting green are open to everyone. $10 donation for adults, $5 donation for kids — all you can play. LOCAL Life insider tip: You don't need to bring clubs — the pros at First Tee will loan you a set at no charge.
151 Gumtree Road, Hilton Head Island • firstteelowcountry.org/about/facility
FUN ON HHI The only website you need during your vacation. Used by visitors and locals. Exciting things to see and do; places to eat and shop; and rental options like bikes, beach equipment, golf carts and Moke. Also a great resource to plan your next trip to HHI.
LOCAL Life Insider Tip: Download the Fun On HHI app for curated discounts and offers not available on the website, sent directly to you. Plus an interactive bike map. 59B New Orleans Road, Hilton Head Island • 833.386.6644 • FunOnHHI.com
Lady’s Island photographer Amber Hewitt captured the essence of Southern comfort in this goldenhour view of a bench swing at Pigeon Point Boat Landing in Beaufort. She didn’t set out to take the photo and only discovered it later, but it quickly became one she would never forget. “I snuck away to just be alone for a few minutes,” she said. “For once, I let the moment be enough, where nobody needed anything from me, and I didn’t have to do anything.” More than a scene, it’s a feeling. A reminder that sometimes the deepest comfort comes when the world slows and you simply let it.
US WITH YOUR BEST SHOT Have you taken a great local photo? Send your high-res image to info@wearelocallife.com or upload it at locallifesc.com/partingshot.
