The Mill Magazine Edition 15 No. 2 Makers + Doers

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Character

inspiring small town living

Beat Summer’sHeat with IV HYDRATION

Text by Aubrey Ducane

As the summer sun blazes, we’re preparing for another season of scorching temperatures and relentless humidity in the Carolinas. With the mercury rising and the heat index soaring, staying hydrated is more crucial than ever. But sometimes, plain old water doesn’t cut it in the battle against dehydration. That’s where Hydrate Medical steps in, offering a great solution that not only provides immediate relief and comfort but also delivers essential vitamins and minerals directly into your system: IV hydration.

Summertime is for outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to nearby picnicking in the parks, concerts, and baseball games. However, as enjoyable as these activities may be, they also come with risks, mainly when staying hydrated in the face of intense heat. Dehydration can sneak up on even the most seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and even heat stroke. That’s why it’s not just essential but crucial to take hydration seriously, especially during the scorching summer months.

While drinking water is undoubtedly essential, sometimes more is needed to keep up with the body’s demand for fluids, particularly during extreme heat or intense physical activity. The average person loses 10 cups of water daily through sweating, urinating, and breathing. Dehydration can lead to severe health issues, including headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. It can also impact your mood and concentration. The amount of water needed to rehydrate versus one IV bag of fluids can vary depending on individual hydration status, activity level, environmental conditions, and body size. A one-liter IV bag typically contains 1000 milliliters of fluids. To provide a rough comparison, an average person may need to drink approximately 2 to 4 liters of water to rehydrate, equivalent to 2000 to 4000 milliliters. With IV hydration, you get 100% absorption which decreases recovery time, prevents upset stomach, renews energy, and gets you back to life faster.

There is more than just fluid in IV hydration. There are essential vitamins and minerals in IV hydration therapy, including sodium, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Sodium, often associated with table salt, helps regulate fluid balance and nerve function, while calcium is essential for muscle contraction and bone health. Magnesium supports energy production and muscle relaxation, while potassium aids nerve transmission and muscle function. These electrolytes work harmoniously to ensure proper hydration and overall well-being. Hydrate Medical’s Myers Cocktail IV drip has been used for decades to treat various dehydration conditions, from chronic fatigue to migraine headaches. The Myers Cocktail includes 250 milliliters of IV fluid, Super B, Vitamin C, B12, Magnesium, and calcium.

“I visited the Fort Mill location yesterday and had such a great experience. I have visited this location previously, and the service has always been wonderful. Yesterday, I had a migraine, and Stacia, Michelle, and Tyler could not have been nicer. Stacia made sure I had a blanket because I was chilly, and lowered the lights since my head was pounding and I was sensitive to light. I have horrible veins, and Tyler and Michelle were so patient and found one that would work. They kept me distracted as they tried to find one. The people at this location are so incredibly caring and thoughtful. Don’t think twice about visiting. I can’t thank them enough - they are truly AMAZING!” - Reshma Patel

Hydrate Medical is Fort Mill’s premier hydration clinic, led by a team of experienced medical professionals. With a range of customizable IV hydration treatments, Hydrate Medical offers a safe, effective way to combat dehydration. Whether recovering from vigorous outdoor activities, fighting the effects of heat exhaustion, or simply seeking a refreshing boost, IV hydration provides a quick and efficient way to rehydrate and rejuvenate the body, enabling individuals to stay energized, revitalized, and ready to tackle the summer’s challenges headon with confidence. To learn more about Hydrate Medical, visit hydratemedical.com.

Photos courtesy of Hydrate Medical.

inspiring small town communities

MAKERS DOERS &

Join us as we celebrate the heartbeat of our community: our local small business owners. In every corner of our neighborhoods, these passionate individuals pour their creativity, dedication, and love into crafting products and services that enrich our lives in a myriad of ways. From the artisans who handcraft unique goods to the entrepreneurs who provide essential services, each small business owner contributes to the local tapestry, making life easier, better, healthier, and more beautiful.

These local businesses are the embodiment of innovation and resilience, tirelessly striving to meet the needs of our community while infusing their creations with a personal touch that sets them apart. Whether it’s the neighborhood chiropractor promoting wellness, the boutique offering unique gifts, or the local florist adorning our homes with nature’s beauty, small

businesses are the lifeblood of this place. As we celebrate their remarkable contributions, let us not only recognize their entrepreneurial spirit but also pledge our support to ensure their continued success. By patronizing these establishments, we not only enjoy high-quality products and services but also nurture the vibrant ecosystem that makes our neighborhoods thrive.

Explore the dreamers, the risk-takers, and the hardworking souls who enrich our lives every day. Raise a toast to our local small business owners, champions of innovation, and guardians of community spirit. We celebrate their dedication, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to making our world a better place, one product and service at a time.

Text by Tracey Roman

WHITNEY SHEA

The visionary behind Green Space, Whitney began this journey with a mobile plant shop serving York County. Now, her passion has blossomed into a captivating oasis nestled on E. Main Street in downtown Rock Hill. Green Space isn’t just a haven for plants and gifts anymore; it’s an enchanting destination boasting a fully stocked wine bar. Offering a meticulously curated selection of wines from around the world alongside local beers, it’s an experience like no other. At Green Space, the offerings extend far beyond plants and libations. Services range from expert consultations to container planting, custom arrangements, and even plant education. But that’s not all – immerse yourself in the world of wines with custom tastings and a bespoke wine list. Dive deeper into creativity with workshops led by local artisans in a lush, inviting atmosphere. Whether you seek a rejuvenating plant revamp, a romantic date night, or the perfect gift, Green Space has everything you need and more.

DR. TERESA MERCADO

A dentist with over two decades of experience, Dr. Mercado completed her undergraduate at UC Irvine and earned her doctorate from UCSF School of Dentistry in 1997. After running a successful private practice in Northern California for 16 years, the family decided to relocate in 2013 to Fort Mill where Christian and family values are more suited to them. After getting acclimated to the Carolinas, Dr. Mercado created a first-class private practice, Monarch Dentistry of Gold Hill, where there is integrity in the care provided to each client. Her mission is to provide first-class service through her passion for dentistry, done with a servant’s heart. She maintains the private practice through a high-touch, high level of customer service, and care. Specializing in Cosmetic, Full Mouth Reconstruction, and Implant Dentistry, she also focuses on treating conditions like Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Temporal Mandibular Disorder, recognizing their impact on overall health. Dr. Mercado offers Sedation Dentistry, accommodating patients with dental anxiety or tight schedules. “With Sedation Dentistry, I can take care of more dental procedures with fewer visits and my patients love that,” Dr. Mercado explains. Driven by a commitment to exceptional care, she operates a concierge practice, prioritizing one-on-one attention. With a belief in the interconnectedness of oral and systemic health, she emphasizes patient education and tailored treatment plans. Beyond dentistry, Dr. Mercado pursues excellence in various aspects of life, from gourmet cooking to interior design. Family-centered, she cherishes time with her husband, two children, and their French Bulldog, Boomer.

REBECCA ADAMS STARRS, FRANK ADAMS, & JEFF ADAMS

Nestled within Charlotte’s tree-lined streets and historic neighborhoods is a family legacy deeply ingrained in the city’s fabric. For siblings Frank Adams and Rebecca Adams Starrs, Co-Presidents of Helen Adams Realty, and eighth-generation Charlotteans, this legacy is not just a professional milestone — it’s a continuation of their family’s storied history in the community they have called home for generations. Helen Civil Adams, Frank and Rebecca’s grandmother, had real estate in her blood. Her great-grandfather was the president of Charlotte’s Mutual Building and Loan Association in the late 1800s. Her father, a prominent figure in the community, had extensive land holdings across town. In 1975, Helen embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, founding Helen Adams Realty – a firm that quickly became synonymous with excellence and personalized service. Jeff Adams, Helen’s son, took the reins in the early 90s, steering the firm through decades of growth and innovation. Under his leadership, Helen Adams Realty flourished, expanding its reach by opening three additional offices across the metropolitan area. Jeff’s guideposts encompassed upholding the firm’s founding values, delivering an agent- and client-centric experience, and fostering a pervasive family-oriented culture. Now, as Jeff passes the torch to his children on the heels of its 50th anniversary, Frank and Rebecca are poised to embark on a new era of growth and success. Raised with an entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication to service, they bring a unique blend of tradition and innovation to the helm and are ready to write the next chapter in the story of their family’s legacy in Charlotte.

WENDY HICKEY

The Founder and Executive Director of the SC/NC Charlotte Regional Arts 501c3 nonprofit, ArtPop Street Gallery, Wendy has a background in marketing and advertising. On May 1, 2018, she left her corporate career to pursue her heart’s dream of supporting local artists’ small businesses and local artists’ ability to achieve sustainable success while making art accessible to all. Wendy’s deep knowledge of the billboard advertising industry and connections have made it possible for 16 billboard companies to donate ad space to the mission to support local art. Over $8mm in ad space is donated to the ArtPop mission each year. You know those art-filled billboards you see all over the region as well as all over the country? Yes, ArtPop makes local artists of the region, household names and beautifies our commutes. Wendy exclaimed, “For 4 weeks in 2024, our 20 Cities Program artists were featured in Times Square. Even our Senior High School student, from Fort Mill High School was featured in Times Square!” The ArtPop mission is now in its 11th year and over 300 artists of the Charlotte Region have been supported through the program. ArtPop’s Cities Program supports local artists’ small businesses through marketing, advertising, business training, scholarships, and more. Through ArtPop’s Inspiration Projects, a newer division of ArtPop has made paid commissions possible for local artists, and as of April 2024, local artists have been paid $671,000. ArtPop’s team manages the projects and makes public and private art projects possible through the clients who hire ArtPop. ArtPop also hosts many events each year and the most popular event is the Upcycled Fashion Show, to be held on September 14, 2024, featuring fashion created by local designers made of the retired ArtPop billboards.

DR. JESSICA HARDEN

For more than a decade, Dr. Jessica and her team at Providence Chiropractic have served the Carolinas with neurologically based chiropractic care. Whether a person with multiple spinal fusions or a newborn just hours old, we believe it is your family’s right to be healthy. Providence uses the latest technology to thoroughly assess the function of the nervous system and spinal biomechanics; including thermography, surface electromyography, heart rate variability scans, and dynamic digital imaging (motion x-ray). As a wife and mother, Jessica is focused on improving the health of the families of Fort Mill and the surrounding area. Jessica says her goal is “always to serve my community with the knowledge (and people) I have been blessed with”.

BRITTANY HAGER

An introverted corporate professional, Brittany is married to her best friend, Ryan, and they cherish family life with four wonderful children: Kayden, Zyan, McKinley, and Hendrix. With her children becoming more independent, Brittany sought a hobby and discovered a passion for crafting. Thus began her journey of Gifted Culture, where she finds joy in creating bracelets, necklaces, lanyards, and wood slice ornaments but also finds herself stepping out of her comfort zone. Engaging with the community and fostering relationships have become her favorite aspects of Gifted Culture. As the small business continues to thrive, it has become a family endeavor, showcasing the values of hard work and dedication to her children. While serving customers nationwide, Brittany acknowledges that Gifted Culture owes its success to the supportive Fort Mill community.

JENNIFER WAGENER

Jennifer Wagener leads Jennifer Wagener Interiors, a comprehensive interior design firm located in Rock Hill, SC. The firm offers a spectrum of services, including complete home transformations, kitchen and bathroom renovations, single-room revamps, bespoke drapery, and hard window treatments. Affiliation with the NARI (National Association of Remodeling Industry) Charlotte chapter grants Jennifer access to a wide array of reputable general contractors spanning the Carolinas. Collaborating with the right contractor ensures projects align with clients’ visions while alleviating the stress of overseeing renovations. Operating within the Decorating Den Interiors network, Jennifer Wagener Interiors benefits from a vast pool of suppliers situated in the Carolinas. Pricing is structured into tiers of quality—good, better, or best—to accommodate diverse budgetary needs. The majority of custom upholstery originates from the High Point, NC, or Hickory, NC areas, renowned for their superior craftsmanship. Moreover, Jennifer Wagener Interiors boasts access to suppliers typically requiring minimum orders to establish accounts. Jennifer attends the High Point Market semi-annually to explore, interact with, and stay abreast of emerging products and trends. This firsthand exposure, coupled with manufacturers’ educational resources, enables Jennifer to offer comprehensive insights into the production processes and material compositions of furnishings. Setting itself apart, Jennifer Wagener Interiors delivers a turnkey, white-glove service, eschewing cookie-cutter designs. Jennifer’s approach encourages clients to venture beyond their comfort zones, ensuring a remarkable design journey culminating in a bespoke, professionally curated space. With Jennifer’s extensive professional network, expertise, and talent, clients can realize their dream spaces efficiently and with unparalleled attention to detail.

TRISHA JAMES

A devoted single mother and licensed esthetician, Trisha channels her passion into Pinkology Cosmetics, a line of skincare products rooted in the healing power of natural ingredients. Inspired by her journey through anxiety and depression, Trisha’s love for all things pink sparked the inception of her business. Pinkology isn’t just about skincare; it’s a movement, spreading awareness and fostering self-love through its mission statement: “Pink: It’s not just a color, it’s an attitude.” At the heart of Pinkology Cosmetics lies the transformative essence of Shea butter, carefully infused into each product. From silky lip glosses to indulgent body butter, Trisha’s formulations deliver moisture and healing to the skin, enhancing beauty and confidence. Driven by her dedication to skincare and her mission to make a difference, Trisha continues to innovate while navigating the demands of motherhood and entrepreneurship. With every Pinkology Cosmetics purchase, customers not only indulge in luxurious self-care but also contribute to spreading love and positivity—one pink-infused product at a time.

JONATHAN LEAKE & KEITH PARRIS

As a board-certified Emergency Physician, Jonathan has treated dehydration and illness with IV fluids and medications for 10 years. His understanding of the havoc that overindulgence, viral illness, overexertion, travel, and sports training have on the body, allowed the development of specified treatments for each. Being an avid traveler and a CrossFit regular brings personal experience in line with his medical knowledge. Jonathan is an Atlanta native. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Georgia State University with a B.S. in Psychology then attended Emory University Medical School where he earned his M.D. Jonathan completed Emergency Medicine residency at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, N.C. Jonathan is the co-owner, CEO, and Medical Director of Hydrate Medical.

Keith graduated from Clemson University in 1992 with a degree in Biological Sciences, Gardner-Webb University in 1995 with an Associates degree in Nursing, Western Carolina in 1997 with a Bachelors degree in Nursing, and The University of South Carolina in 2001 with a Masters degree in Nursing. He has been a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner since 2002. Keith has 20 years of experience in the Emergency Room with the last 13 as a Nurse Practitioner. He has personally treated thousands of patients with hydration therapy. He also has a passion for endurance sports and has completed 6 Ironman triathlons. He understands the stress and fatigue that goes along with training at high levels and can help you recover or get ready for your next adventure. Keith is the co-owner and COO of Hydrate Medical.

JACKIE KIMBRELL

Jackie Kimbrell, a longstanding resident of Fort Mill for 40 years, transitioned from a 23-year career in healthcare to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams as the proud owner of Apricot Lane Boutique. With unwavering dedication, Jackie and her team have cultivated Apricot Lane Fort Mill into a 1700-square-foot haven boasting a chic “glam bohemian vibe” nestled within Brayden Village. Driven by a passion for providing women of all ages with flattering, timeless, and affordable clothing and accessories, Jackie ensures that each customer’s experience is nothing short of delightful. At Apricot Lane, friendly faces are greeted warmly, and a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere invites customers to explore the curated selection at their own pace. With a commitment to exceptional service, Jackie and her team strive to make every visit memorable, ensuring that patrons feel empowered and at ease while discovering their perfect ensemble.

HOLLY SIMPSON

Formerly a family therapist, Holly Simpson founded Simpson Law Firm in Fort Mill to fulfill a pressing need in her growing community: comprehensive, informed, and personally tailored estate planning guidance. At the heart of her mission is an emphasis on relationships; Simpson Law Firm aims to connect with every client personally to ensure that their individual needs and wishes are permanently honored. Since 2018, Simpson Law Firm has rapidly expanded its team to include six attorneys and dozens of support staff. Holly places special interest in cultivating a team that recognizes the importance of manifesting warm, professional, and service-oriented synergy, between both staff and clients. The Simpson Law Firm team emphasizes the unique individuality of every family in our community. Conversation is at the heart of every interaction, and no concern is left unaddressed. With Simpson Law Firm, clients are provided comprehensive estate planning, estate administration, and special needs planning services. Simpson Law Firm distinguishes itself with a thoughtful approach in an often impersonal wealth planning industry. Boasting over 250 five-star reviews, their dedication has garnered well-deserved recognition. As they celebrate the opening of their second office in Ballantyne, they continue to strive to be, above all else, the kindest law firm in the Carolinas.

ANA ROMAN

As a local artisan, Ana shines as a beacon of faith and family with her small business, Godly Tallow. A stay-athome mom with two small kiddos, Ana understands the challenges of maintaining a healthy home and running a small business. Ana’s path began with personal struggles, battling her own acne and her son’s eczema. Seeking remedies, she discovered the transformative properties of beef tallow, a revelation she attributes to divine guidance. Embracing this newfound knowledge, Ana witnessed remarkable healing for herself and her son, sparking the birth of Godly Tallow. Driven by her unwavering faith, Ana transitioned from veganism to craft healing tallow, a decision deeply rooted in her belief in God’s providence. Her small business stands as a testament to her commitment to both her faith and her family, a labor of love born from a divine calling. Beyond her healing tallow, Ana’s creativity extends to jewelry making and artistry, reflecting her heartfelt connection to crafting beauty from scratch. Each creation carries the essence of her faith and her love for nature, resonating with those who seek solace and healing in the simplicity of natural ingredients. Through Godly Tallow, she intertwines faith, motherhood, and the healing power of her all-natural beef tallow creations.

DR. JESSICA MENDELSOHN

Meet Dr. Jessica Mendelsohn, owner of New South Family Medicine and MedSpa located in Springfield Town Center. Dr. Mendelsohn moved to Charlotte in 2003 to begin her residency training. Upon completion in 2006, she practiced in Charlotte for 8 years, and hospice in Rock Hill for 5 years before opening New South Family Medicine in 2019. New South has grown into a booming primary care practice and a full-service medspa. Dr. Mendelsohn employs 15 teammates, including her husband, Dr. Dave Mendelsohn, who joined her in 2022. Along with two amazing PAs, they serve more than 1000 DPC patients. The MedSpa at New South opened in 2021 and has a team of amazing providers that offer a wide range of medical-grade aesthetic services, including injectables, laser treatments, and hormone therapy. Dr. Mendelsohn is passionate about physician independence. Intent on restoring the relationship between physician and patient, Dr. Mendelsohn is expanding New South into a holistic model that will include mental health, nutrition, and preventive health services. In addition to New South, Dr. Mendelsohn is partnering locally to bring health advancement suites to the area in the Fall of 2024. In addition to her multiple business ventures, Dr. Mendelsohn is an avid philanthropist and is actively involved in multiple nonprofits throughout Fort Mill and beyond. She loves yoga, running, hiking, and spending time with her family. She and Dr. Dave have lived in Fort Mill for 16 years and she is forever grateful to raise their two boys, Charlie and Henry, in this community.

DR. ALYSON KUROSKI-MAZZEI

Alyson Kuroski-Mazzei, DO, DFAPA, FASAM is the CEO and Chief Medical Officer at HopeWay. Based in Charlotte, N.C., HopeWay is a Joint Commission-accredited nonprofit mental health treatment organization with residential, day, and outpatient treatment programs to help clients find hope and healing to live healthy and fulfilling lives. Dr. Kuroski-Mazzei helped HopeWay open its doors as its first CEO in the fall of 2016 and has successfully helped grow the organization to 159 employees and serve more than 3,360 clients from across the US. She has also led HopeWay in three strategic growth areas: 1) building and expanding the outpatient psychiatry practice, HopeWay Psychiatry and Associates; 2) launching innovative Veteran and First Responders Services; and 3) introducing a new teen mental health day program and teen and young adult eating disorder day programs. Under her leadership, Dr. Kuroski-Mazzei also established a joint venture with Novant Health to bring HopeWay’s premier psychiatric services to uninsured clients in two community clinics. She has been instrumental in creating a therapeutic and nurturing culture for clients and building a team of passionate, highly qualified individuals to offer top-notch, life-changing care. In addition to her expertise and experience in psychiatry, addiction medicine, and forensic medicine, she is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (DFAPA) and maintains her academic appointment at UNC-Chapel Hill School of Medicine. Through Dr. Kuroski-Mazzei’s leadership, vision, and expertise, HopeWay is leading the way in mental health treatment and has put the Charlotte region on the map for premier mental health care nationwide.

BECCA BOND

A lifelong photographer, Becca developed a passion for the craft at an early age. Throughout middle and high school, she eagerly enrolled in photography classes, immersing herself in the art form during the film era. Pursuing her love for photography, Becca attended SCAD as a photography major. Over the years, Becca’s career has evolved through various roles. Fresh out of school, she worked as a product photographer in New York City. After relocating to Charlotte, she transitioned to family and newborn portraiture. Subsequently, she delved into product photography and even ventured into the realm of weddings. However, as a single mother to her remarkable daughter, Becca’s priority has always been her child. With her daughter now navigating high school with an active social life, Becca finds herself with the opportunity to explore a new avenue in her photography career: architectural photography. Primarily focused on commercial projects, Becca can often be found in her Rock Hill studio capturing product images or on location photographing rooms and buildings for interior designers, builders, or architects. Becca shares, “Interior photography has my heart.” This aspect of her work allows her to utilize the skills she has refined over the years to create artful images that narrate the story of a space. Becca sees this as the culmination of her previous experiences, recognizing the significance of photographing someone else’s creation. For her, these spaces are the designers’ babies, and their vision holds paramount importance. Even when alone with her camera gear in an empty Airbnb, Becca views her work as a collaboration, acknowledging the essence of teamwork inherent in bringing a space to life through photography.

FREDDA SMITH

Owner and creative director of Buy the Bunch floral studio, Fredda Smith is originally from Camden, SC, but has been in Fort Mill for over 30 years. Her studio is located in downtown Fort Mill behind Crossings on the trackside where she’s been in business for over 22 years. With more than 35 years in the floral industry, Fredda started when she was 15 years old and she eventually bought the first shop she worked in. She specializes in weddings and events but also offers everyday florals including funerals, birthdays, and more. She offers plants and flowers by the stem or premade arrangements. You can even bring in your containers or vases and she’ll fill them. Special order flowers are available with advanced notice as well as delivery. Fredda says, “I love my work. Flowers make everyone smile and I love spreading joy.”

Texture

inspiring small town culture

WOMAN FOUNDED. FAMILY OWNED. LOCALLY OPERATED. SINCE

1975.

MARIE SCHYBERG 704. 763. 1426

MARIE DEMARTINO 704. 502. 7426

MELISSA BROWN 704. 654. 9700

Exploring the Mystique of on Bulls Island Boneyard Beach

Text by Elle Christensen

Tucked away within the barrier islands off the coast of South Carolina lies a hidden gem that defies conventional beauty. Boneyard Beach, situated on Bulls Island, is a place where nature showcases its raw and unfiltered allure, captivating visitors with its hauntingly beautiful landscape.

A SURREAL LANDSCAPE

As you step onto Boneyard Beach, you are immediately struck by the surreal sight before you. The beach is lined with the skeletal remains of ancient trees, weathered and bleached by the elements over time. These ghostly silhouettes stand sentinel against the backdrop of the ocean, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that is both eerie and enchanting. “We took this trip on a whim, and it was incredibly wonderful and entertaining. We saw lots of wildlife,” Mac explained. “You take a small ferry to the island where you learn of its history and why it has such an odd look. It’s just a strange, prehistoric-looking site.”

THE STORY BEHIND THE NAME

The name “Boneyard Beach” is a fitting tribute to the countless trees that have succumbed to the relentless forces of nature. The fallen giants, with their twisted limbs and gnarled roots, evoke images of a long-forgotten graveyard, where the passage of time is etched into every weathered surface.

Photos courtesy of Discover South Carolina.

NATURE’S SCULPTURES

Despite their skeletal appearance, the trees of Boneyard Beach possess a strange beauty all their own. Carved by wind and water, they have been transformed into natural sculptures, their intricate shapes and textures a testament to the power of erosion. As the tides ebb and flow, the landscape is in a constant state of flux, with new patterns and formations emerging with each passing day.

A HAVEN FOR WILDLIFE

Boneyard Beach is not just a feast for the eyes—it is also a haven for wildlife. The fallen trees provide shelter and nesting sites for a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and ospreys. Dolphins can often be spotted playing in the surf, while ghost crabs scuttle along the shoreline in search of food. For nature enthusiasts, the beach offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

CONSERVATION EFFORTS

Bulls Island, home to Boneyard Beach, is part of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, a protected area managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Efforts are underway to preserve the island’s delicate ecosystem and ensure that future generations can continue to experience its natural beauty. Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and tread lightly on the land, respecting the fragile balance of nature.

EXPLORING BONEYARD BEACH

Access to Boneyard Beach is limited, as Bulls Island can only be reached by boat. Guided tours are available for those looking to explore the island and its unique attractions, including Boneyard Beach. Visitors can stroll along the shoreline, marveling at the intricate formations of the fallen trees, or venture further inland to discover the island’s diverse array of habitats, from maritime forests to tidal marshes.

Boneyard Beach is a place of contrasts, where the beauty of nature is both awe-inspiring and humbling. It is a reminder of the impermanence of all things, as the relentless forces of wind and water shape and reshape the landscape with each passing day. For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Boneyard Beach offers a glimpse into a world untouched by time—a world where the whispers of the past echo through the trees, and the mysteries of the natural world unfold at every turn.

Elle Christensen is a freelance writer with many interests that take her near and far, but her home in Waxhaw, NC is her favorite place to be.

Photos courtesy of Discover South Carolina.

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND

Nestled at the mouth of the Charleston Harbor and neighbor to the Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island is an inviting mix of wide beaches and watersports, history and folklore, local restaurants and shops, peace and perfect - just minutes from one of the country's most beloved cities, Charleston, South Carolina.

charlestoncvb.com/beaches/sullivans-island/

Provisions

inspiring small town flavors + shopping

dolce lusso salon & spa dolcelusso.com

2 burns cadillac burnscadillac.com

providence chiropractic providence-chiropractic.com

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dewils fine cabinetry dewils.com

palmetto eye palmetto-eye.com

blackhawk hardware blackhawkhardware.com

the trailer store thetrailerstore.online

bryson city, nc visitnc.com

ibma bluegrass live! worldofbluegrass.org

guild of charlotte artists guildofcharlotteartists.online

66 summer in seagrove discoverseagrove.com

monarch dentistry of gold hill monarchdentistryofgoldhill.com p.17

highpoint at fort mill highpointfortmill.com p.15 hydrate medical fortmill.hydratemedical.com p.21 beaufort, nc visitnc.com

artpop street gallery artpopstreetgallery.com p.23 mackey realty mackeyrealty.com

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helen adams realty helenadamsrealty.com

explore charleston charlestoncvb.com p.58

crystal coast tourism authority crystalcoastnc.org

artpop street gallery artpopstreetgallery.com

ITONLY FEELS LIKE A DREAM.

Centuries of maritime history and breathtaking beach scenery come together in one magical place. Make a dream vacation a reality at the Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

Barbara Curry