Local Life Magazine October 2024

make scents

LOWCOUNTRY STYLE & ELEGANCE

Catherine Donaldson has represented the Sotheby’s International Realty brand for over 16 years. Her commitment to the brand is FIERCE. Call her today to discover why.

DONALDSON GROUP THE

170 Oldfield Way

$3,895,000

This gorgeous recently built home is the quintessential model of Lowcountry style and elegance. Designed by world renowned Court Atkins Architects, this home has custom features in every room. New Orleans lanterns and French topiaries draw you into an open great room with 22 foot ceilings and a magnificent view of the Okatie River. An adjoining 1,000 square foot of heated and air conditioned porch space boasts that same southern exposure plus a view of the 11th green of Oldfield’s Greg Norman championship golf course. A coastal chic designed guest house with tea kitchen overlooks the pool with jetting fountains, jacuzzi and river vistas. This outstanding property also includes a four car garage and a large carriage space above.

With over 20 years of experience Kendrick Construction remains true to the commitment of building with distinction. Building each home as if they are building their own, Kendrick’s “client first” approach allows them to work closely with the clients throughout the entire process. Taking note of needs and desires for each build, the result is a truly custom home built to each client’s precise specifications with a quality and craftsmanship that will last for many generations to come.

Photographed in Savannah,GA

Celebrating over 50 Years of Fine Art in the Lowcountry.

ARTIST RECEPTION

AND SHOW OCT. 25, 5-7PM

Jennifer Smith Rogers

Tripp Smith

Shannon Smith Hughes

Casas de Colores Johns Island Tidal Flat

36" x 36" Oil

36" x 60" Oil

Surf And Sky V

20" x 30" B&W Photography

Betty Anglin Smith

SERVING HILTON HEAD, BLUFFTON, BEAUFORT & HARDEEVILLE

Join us on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina for four days of motoring excellence as we honor Rolls-Royce and Bentley, recognize the 125-year legacy of Packard and celebrate 60 Years of Ford's Mustang.

Daily highlights include Thursday's Grand Motoring Film Festival; Friday's Flights & Fancy at the Hilton Head Island Airport, featuring airplanes, automobiles, craft beverages, gourmet food and live entertainment; Saturday's Car Club Showcase & Aero Expo and Rolls-Royce Owners' Club National Mini Meet; and Sunday's Concours d'Elegance showcasing hundreds of historically significant automobiles, motorcycles and boats on the fairways of the Port Royal Golf Club.This year's classes include Rolls-Royce and Bentley, Packard 125th Anniversary, Pop Culture Cars of the 50s & 60s, Ferrari GT, Italian GT Cars of the 60s & 70s, Classic Japanese Performance, four generations of supercars and more.

the team

What have you made that you are the most proud of?

“When I was an art teacher, I made a Tiffany Lamp. I still have it in my kitchen today.” - LORI

“Nothing fuels football-watching weekends like the hearty goodness of my slow-cooker chili." - LANCE

“My most recent creation ... My Dog Doesn't Stink artisan candle.”

- JEREMY

“Working for a design and fabrication firm, we made everything from film and television props to museum exhibits.” - CHARLES

“My younger self was super proud of the clothes I made and sewed for my dolls.”

- ASHLAN

“The music I made as a classical pianist. In particular, I loved performing works by my favorite composer, Prokofiev.” - BAILEY

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

“Last Thanksgiving I made the best mac 'n' cheese ever, and no, I will not share the recipe.”

- SHEILA

“Recreating my Nanny's egg custard pie. It's a special way to honor her memory and bring a touch of her love back into our home.” - REBECCA

“This summer my green thumb thrived, and I successfully grew organic cucumbers in my garden.” - LAUREN

“A tranquil spot on my porch full of lushness.”

- MARCI

“A business out of something that brings me joy and happiness.”

- LISA

“Trying a new recipe and having it come out looking like the picture — and as yummy!”

- LEAH

“The VibraWrap. A patented, mobile, battery-operated vibrating joint wrap that stimulates blood flow to sore joints.” - BRUCE

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Sheila Paz (Local since 2021) sheila.paz@wearelocallife.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Rebecca Kerns (Local since 1999) rebecca.kerns@wearelocallife.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Lauren Alston (Local since 2019) lauren.alston@wearelocallife.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Marci Atkins (Local since 2018) marci.atkins@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

Main Street

Head Island, SC, 29926 843-802-2258 + LocalLifeSC.com

LOCAL Life is published monthly by Momentum Media Group, Inc. All contents are copyrighted by Momentum Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. For back issues or advertising information, call 843-802-2258. Publisher is not responsible for claims and contents of advertisements. Product submissions should be mailed. LOCAL Life is not required to use your submission in any manner, and whether anything from your submission is included in our magazine is in our sole discretion.

Now available in stores and online only at Palmetto Running Company

WE ARE DEPENDABLE GUARDIANS. GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND. CREATING RAVING FANS . MAKING EVERLASTING MEMORIES. FORMING PARTNERSHIPS THAT MATTER. OFFERING QUALITY PLACES. BOTTOM LINE, WE CARE.

Makers Issue

Handcrafted creations are expressions of passion and skill, and many in the Lowcountry value quality local craftsmanship over mass-produced items. However, local makers often struggle for visibility. This issue celebrates our community’s artisans, giving them the recognition they deserve, as gifting season approaches, and aims to inspire you to embrace the maker's spirit and create something memorable of your own.

FORGED IN TRADITION

A crescent moon rises above a palmetto tree in a striking piece of steel art, a design sure to resonate with South Carolinians. This unique creation comes from Hailey King, who has been crafting custom steel artwork since 2017. Drawing on welding techniques passed down from her father, King uses plasma cutting to bring her vision to life through her business, HK Steel Art. Discover more of King’s work, along with other local makers, on page 106

cool techniques makers,

Make stuff

Discover new skills and make cool stuff at local workshops

Seasonal splendor

Easy projects that will transform your home

Brighten your home with fall's best blooms Master

An artistic tour

A journey through Beaufort County’s top galleries

Cradle in creativity

Meet the local behind a super trendy baby brand

Lowcountry made

Check out some of the best locally made products

Make a fall salad

As seasons change, so should your salad ingredients

Made with passion

Celebrating the heart, soul and skill behind locally made creations.

“Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind.”

- JOHANNES BRAHMS, GERMAN

tCOMPOSER

Publisher Lori Goodridge-Cribb is pictured with her Tiffany lamp, a handcrafted piece that has graced her home with its light for more than four decades.

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.

There’s something undeniably special about a handcrafted creation — whether it’s a work of art, a meticulously designed piece of furniture, a piece of lovingly crafted heirloom jewelry or even a beautifully composed song. These are not just products; they are stories, skills and passion poured into something tangible. Many locals in the Lowcountry appreciate this. In fact, surveys have shown that our readers consistently choose quality over quantity, hand-crafted over mass-produced and local over imported. This preference is more than a trend; it’s a lifestyle.

Unfortunately, local makers often struggle with visibility. They create incredible work, but it’s easy for their talents to go unnoticed in a world of mass production. That’s why this issue is dedicated to the artists, crafters and artisans right here in our community — those who have mastered both the art and science of their chosen craft. We aim not only to celebrate their work but to give them the recognition they so richly deserve, heading into gifting season.

We shine a light on some of the best locally made products and share the inspiring stories behind them. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in hands-on experiences. From workshops in Beaufort, Bluffton and Hilton Head to projects you can tackle at home, this issue invites you to explore your own creativity.

For those who love to make things, we’ve gathered some of the coolest tools that local makers use to bring their visions to life. If you’re inspired to try your hand at a fall floral arrangement, we’ve provided a step-by-step guide using locally grown blooms. Looking for DIY projects? We’ve got you covered with easy, fun ideas that can transform both the inside and outside of your home.

In addition, we take you on a tour of Beaufort County’s top art galleries, where you can admire the work of both local and nationally acclaimed artists and makers. For foodies, we celebrate oyster season with local recipes and expert tips.

We also offer a glimpse of some extraordinary vehicles coming to this year's Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival, an event only gaining momentum after two decades. Like the RBC Heritage and Seafood Festival, it’s a must-attend event.

Tiffany lamps: You can do it!

Back in the early 1980s, I crafted a Tiffany lamp with the small amount of free time I had after teaching. The process was more difficult than expected. If you wonder why those beautiful lamps come with a hefty price tag, try cutting, foiling and soldering hundreds of tiny pieces by hand on a round mold. It took me seven months, but to this day, it proudly hangs over my dining table. Luckily, it can’t repeat the colorful language I used while making it!

DRIVING WELLNESS

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, a new skill to master or simply to appreciate artistry, this issue has something for everyone. We hope it inspires you to embrace the maker’s spirit and create something memorable of your own.

LORI GOODRIDGE-CRIBB PUBLISHER lori.goodridge@wearelocallife.com

Have you spotted the LOCAL Life Jeep around town? This month we pulled up alongside the team from Discover Specific Chiropractic.

Pictured from left to right are Dr. Ken Horup, Tristan Horup, Reily White, Chantal Horup, Paige Baltimore and Lexi Smythe. Visit them to enhance your physical and mental well-being through spinal adjustments.

THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE

contributors

MEET LOCAL CREATIVES BEHIND THE SCENES

Lola Jarzemsky Writer

OTHER CREDS: Graduated from Iowa State with a bachelor’s degree in fashion communications and journalism. FOR THIS ISSUE: Cradle in creativity, adopt this pet

HOMETOWN: Gilberts, Illinois

CURRENT HOME: Hilton Head Island HOBBIES: Reading, wake surfing, styling outfits, taking long walks and cooking with friends and family. WHAT ARE YOU WATCHING? 20th Century Women WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO? TV Girl, Hozier, Amy Winehouse WHAT ARE YOU READING? This Summer will be Different by Carley Fortune WHAT ARE YOU LOVING ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY? Beautiful beaches and delicious seafood. FAVORITE LOCAL SPOTS: Burkes Beach and Old Town Bluffton. BUCKET LIST: Catching the sunset at the north end of the island. WHAT DO YOU MAKE THE BEST? Omelets and lattes. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE FALL? Those trees whose leaves turn bright orange. FAVORITE HALLOWEEN MEMORY: Raking the leaves from my backyard into a massive pile and jumping right in.

Daisy Dow Writer

FOR THIS ISSUE: The hot list

HOMETOWN: Fayetteville, Georgia

CURRENT HOME: Chicago LOCAL

CONNECTIONS: My family has lived on Hilton Head since 2019.

Gwen Callas-Miller Photographer

OTHER CREDS: I have a wonderful daughter in Charlotte, I retired from a fulfilling career in global executive education and leadership development, managed my own executive coaching practice and now am able to spend significant time on my lifelong hobby of photography. FOR THIS ISSUE: Parting shot HOMETOWN: East Liverpool, Ohio CURRENT HOME: Bluffton HOBBIES: Wildlife photography, birding, travel to nature and wildlife preserves as well as exotic bucket list locations like Africa and Egypt. WHAT ARE YOU WATCHING? House of the Dragon, Presumed Innocent, Big Brother (a guilty pleasure) and waiting for the next season of Bridgerton. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO? Mainly classic rock from the '70s and '80s. WHAT ARE YOU READING? Demon Copperhead (eBook) and First Lie Wins (Audio) FAVORITE LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS: Cypress Wetlands in Port Royal, Fish Haul Beach, Pinckney National Wildlife Refuge, Sea Pines, Jarvis Creek Park and my backyard. FAVORITE HALLOWEEN MEMORY: Every year my old neighborhood organized a flatbed truck with hay and Halloween decorations for the smallest children to ride up and down the streets for trick or treat. It was safe and fun for all.

HOBBIES: Painting, bike riding and, of course, writing. WHAT ARE YOU WATCHING? The Bear WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO? Sunday Morning Put-On by Andrew Bird WHAT ARE YOU READING? Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHICAGO? It's fun to walk to the grocery store and unintentionally find yourself in some event or festival you didn't know was going on. WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY? Without a doubt, I miss the food in the Lowcountry the most. WHAT DO YOU MAKE THE BEST? I make great brownies (out of the box, but no one knows the difference). WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE FALL? Crunchy leaves and the smell of cooler air. FAVORITE HALLOWEEN MEMORY: My birthday falls right around Halloween, so I always loved having spooky-themed birthday parties growing up. The photo below is a little odd, but it's me with the best thing I made for my art degree!

Others who helped craft this Makers Issue ...

PHOTOGRAPHERS Alan Biggs + Kelli Boyd + Katie Bradham + Arno Dimmling

Aurélia Dubois + John McManus + Mike Ritterbeck

Lisa Staff + Mary Alice Tartler

WRITERS Naya Battle + Daisy Dow + Becca Edwards + Denise Friday + Barry Kaufman

Carolyn Males + Margaret Pearman + Leslie T. Snadowsky + Richard Thomas

CONTRIBUTORS Beth Birdwell + Amanda Castillo + Marcia Cornell

Diana McDougall + Jean Meaney Wheatly + Caroll Williams

Corryne Jackson, Beth Drake, and Lauren Dooley

In the Chef's Kitchen

Instagram exclusive: Experience culinary excellence at Charlie's Coastal Bistro, where Chef Josh Castillo takes you step-by-step through creating a mouthwatering lamb dish. @locallifesc

1 A guide to the best dog parks in the Lowcountry

2 A closer look at the state ban on invasive ornamental trees

3

Ultimate vacation rentals on Hilton Head Island

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The Buzz LOCAL Life’s latest must-reads The Nest Home trends and tips

About the Cover

This month’s cover features handcrafted soap bars, elegantly wrapped in rustic twine and displayed on a weathered wooden board with lavender sprigs adding a touch of natural charm. Captured by Aurélia Dubois, the image beautifully showcases the artistry and care behind handmade creations. Known for her ability to infuse everyday objects with life and character through her lens, Dubois brings an authentic, organic warmth to her work. Discover more of her photography at aureliaduboisphotographie.com or on Instagram (@aureliaduboisphotographie).

Charlie's Coastal Bistro

“

Pictured left to right – Back row: Alan Perry NMLS# 866734, Susan Smith NMLS# 278903, Aaron Benton NMLS# 1717095, Gina Cavano NMLS# 1182146, and Jason Goldstein NMLS# 2180858. Front row: Tricia Lowman NMLS# 2440257, David Crowell NMLS# 12620, Kim Capin NMLS# 158295, and Clara Good NMLS# 2169516.

local blend

WORD ON THE STREET + COMMUNITY TIDBITS + FAST FACTS + LOCAL LANDMARKS

FIND INSPIRATION AND DISCOVER NEW SKILLS WITH THESE LOCAL WORKSHOPS AND EXPERIENCES.

tThe Lowcountry is brimming with opportunities for creative exploration, and there are places all around where you can make something beautiful with your own hands. Whether you’re in Beaufort, Bluffton or Hilton Head, workshops abound, inviting you to unleash your creativity, learn new skills and take home something uniquely yours. Here’s a look at the best spots to let your artistic side shine (and maybe get a little messy in the process).

Bluffton Candles

54 Bridge Street, Bluffton

Blend your own soy candles: At Bluffton Candles, the create-your-own candle workshop is a fragrant, hands-on experience where participants craft their own custom soy candles from start to finish. Guests are guided through the process of selecting their favorite scents, blending oils and pouring their unique creations into stylish containers. The workshop encourages creativity, allowing you to mix and match fragrances to design a signature scent that reflects your personality or mood. Whether you're new to candle-making or a seasoned DIYer, Bluffton Candles' welcoming atmosphere makes it easy and enjoyable to craft a candle that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Sign up for the next workshop ($65) at blufftoncandles.com.

The Art League Academy

106 Cordillo Parkway, Hilton Head

Paint your pets in an impressionistic way: The Art League of Hilton Head offers an array of workshops and classes designed to inspire artists of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Whether your passion is painting, drawing, sculpture or mixed media, the academy provides handson instruction across a variety of media. Led by experienced instructors, courses cover everything from watercolor and advanced acrylic techniques to more unique offerings like glass fusion, abstract art and figure drawing. Special workshops often feature guest artists, introducing fresh styles and techniques that invigorate the classroom experience. From 3:30-5:30 p.m. on Oct. 22, instructor Debi West will teach students to paint their pets in an impressionistic way. Sign up for $40 at artleaguehhi.org

©BLUFFTON CANDLES

©ART LEAGUE OF HILTON HEAD

Willow Works

900 Port Republic Street, Beaufort

Hilton Head Pottery

21 Mathews Drive, Hilton Head Island

Take the potter’s wheel for a spin: Always wanted to try your hand at the potter’s wheel? Many Friday and some Saturday nights throughout the year are open-wheel night ($45) at Hilton Head Pottery, with no commitment to classes. Just show up at 6:30 p.m., and get down and dirty. Wine, beer and snacks are welcome. Hilton Head Pottery also offers clay classes for beginners, which provide a foundational introduction to working with clay, and intermediate classes for those looking to take their pottery to the next level. Single-day workshops are also offered. Learn more at hiltonheadpottery.com

Make stained glass and more: Willow Works, Beaufort’s newest creative space, is a haven for art enthusiasts eager to enrich the Lowcountry’s thriving arts community. Offering a diverse range of hands-on classes — from stained glass and watercolor to mosaics, jewelry making, printmaking and beyond — Willow Works provides an inviting atmosphere for artists of all skill levels. Its recent stained glass workshop ($100) supplied everything needed for participants to craft a stunning stained glass sunflower while learning to cut, assemble, solder and polish their pieces. In addition to scheduled workshops, the studio offers open studio hours, where artists can drop in and work on their own projects using the provided easels, tools and workspace by appointment. Discover upcoming classes at willow-works-beaufort.square.site

OTHER COOL & CREATIVE EXPERIENCES

Recycled art contest: Make a treasure out of trash and register for the Port Royal Sound Foundation’s Recycled Art Contest at portroyalsoundfoundation.org by Oct. 25. The theme for all artwork should relate to the Port Royal Sound – think ocean, animals, beaches, local culture and fun in the sun. The art must be at least 80 percent recyclables or trash.

Lantern Parade prep: Want to wow at the Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade (Nov. 23)? Join the free Large Lantern-Making Workshop on Oct. 18 at Lowcountry Celebration Park. Local artist Doug Lonneman will guide you through the process. Sign up via oca@hiltonheadislandsc.gov.

Custom hats: At Bluffton’s Brims on the Bluff, design a custom felt or straw hat with a professional stylist. Details at brimsonthebluff.com.

Sweetgrass baskets: Learn the traditional Lowcountry art of sweetgrass basket-making at Coastal Discovery Museum on Oct. 12 or Oct. 26. $80 per class. Sign up at coastaldiscovery.org.

Writing workshop: Turn your life stories into print at a memoir workshop on Oct. 17 with Estelle FordWilliamson at the Pat Conroy Literary Center.

SOBA Art School: Take adult art classes at the Society of Bluffton Artists. Kids' classes are available too. Visit sobagallery.com for more.

Flow Gallery + Workshop: Check out an evolving schedule of workshops and events at palmettobluff.com. Four Corners Art Gallery: Sign up for workshops at fourcornersgallerybluffton.com.

Crochet camp: Learn crochet or knitting at Adult Crochet Camp on Oct. 19 or Oct. 26 at Low Country Shrimp and Knits in Bluffton. Sign up at shrimpandknits.com.

Pottery painting: Choose from hundreds of pottery pieces to paint at The Art Cafe, an artsy studio located above Rockfish Seafood and Steaks on Hilton Head Island. Get all the details at artcafehhi.com.

DIY sugar scrub: Craft your own luxurious hand scrub at Wendala’s Sugar Scrubs Class. It's the perfect blend of creativity and self-care. Learn more at wendalas.com. Cooking classes: Sharpen your culinary skills with cooking classes from local favorites like Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana, Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar, Charlie’s Coastal Bistro and H3 Healthy Kitchen. Perfect for any foodie looking to level up.

©HILTON HEAD POTTERY

©WILLOW WORKS

Just a whittle bit

BeaverCraft Comfort Bird Carving Kit

Looking for a craft that’s equal parts zen and charming? Why not carve your own little wooden bird with the Comfort Bird Carving Kit? It’s like whittling away your worries — one tiny bird at a time. This kit includes everything you need to create your very own avian masterpiece, perfect for a little desk companion or a handmade gift. beavercrafttools.com. $30.

Rub-a-dub-dub

CandleScience Melt and Pour Soap-Making Kit

Got paint stuck under your fingernails from your latest creation? Don’t worry, the Melt and Pour Soap Kit is here to the rescue. This kit has everything you need to whip up a bar of soap so luxurious it could make your store-bought stuff jealous. Choose between rich goat milk soap base, two essential oils and fun dyes to create your own artisan soap. Plus, you’ll be so proud of your handiwork that you might never go back to boring storebought soap again. candlescience.com. $39.

Print your imagination

Asani Mini 3D Printer

Got a brilliant idea stuck in your head? Why leave it there collecting dust when you can bring it to life with the Asani Mini 3D Printer? Whether you’re printing out custom gadgets or quirky home decor that’ll have your friends asking, "Wait, you made that?" this beginner-friendly machine makes the process as easy as pie (minus the oven mitts). No complicated setup, no hours of frustration — just the pure magic of watching your ideas literally materialize in front of your eyes. amazon.com. $200.

hot tech

Bring your ideas to life with these cool tools for makers.

All that glitters isn’t gold

Diamond Art Club Painting Kit

Ready for a little sparkle in your life? The Diamond Art Club Painting Kit is like paint-by-numbers meets bejeweling, and the results are stunning. With a coastalthemed scene called “Weekend in Paradise,” this kit will bring a little vacation vibe to your home while keeping your hands busy. It’s beginner-friendly, stress-relieving and utterly addictive. diamondartclub.com. $75.

Handmade with love

The Woobles Easy Peasy Beginner Bundle

Forgot your bestie’s birthday again? Don’t panic! Whip up an adorable handmade crochet version of their favorite animal or character —nothing says "I care" like a DIY gift. The Woobles Easy Peasy Beginner Bundle is perfect for first-timers, and it comes with everything you need to create four super-cute animals. Not crafty enough? Fear not — the instructions are foolproof. For those feeling a little more adventurous, there are intermediate kits waiting for you to level up. thewoobles.com. $100.

Sew easy

Cricut Maker 3

Ready to cut loose? The Cricut Maker 3 is here to make your wildest crafting dreams come true — whether you're whipping up custom tees or finally tackling that leather pillow project you saw on Pinterest (you know the one). This sleek machine can handle over 300 materials, from delicate fabrics to tough leather. Easy to use and guaranteed to steal the spotlight at crafting parties, this handy gadget is every budding seamstress’s new best friend. cricut.com. $430.

Just happy little accidents

Bob Ross Master Paint Set

Ever felt like life could use a few more happy little clouds? With the Bob Ross Master Paint Set, you can create your own peaceful landscapes and embrace the mantra that there are no mistakes, just happy accidents. If you’re feeling lost in the process, don’t worry — Bob’s got you covered with step-by-step videos that will keep you calm and confident. It’s basically therapy with a paintbrush. bobross.com. $145.

I scream for ice cream

Breville Smart Scoop Ice Cream Compressor Tired of chasing down the perfect pint at the grocery store? The Breville Smart Scoop Ice Cream Compressor is about to change your life. No more weird freezer burns or sad, melty ice cream puddles — this machine lets you churn out your dream flavor combinations right at home, from soft serve to firm, no pre-frozen bowls required. You’ll go from “I wish I had that flavor” to “I made that flavor” in under an hour. williams-sonoma.com. $500.

Hargray is now Sparklight.

Internet that’s always working for you.

Say hello to Sparklight, formerly Hargray! Same great team, new promise: “Always working for you.” We pioneered internet for small towns and cities. Now, with our new name, we’re all about advanced technology, top-notch customer service, and unbeatable connectivity.

We believe connection makes a house a home. As our network grows, we’re more dedicated than ever to delivering fast, reliable internet for years to come.

21-year-old Mallory lands a summer job as a live-in nanny for 5-year-old Teddy Maxwell. Strange noises and the feeling of being watched aside, she begins to panic when Teddy starts to draw disturbing pictures of a person being dragged into the woods and buried in a hole. Each day Teddy's drawings become more detailed and sophisticated. Mallory is drawn into a race to find the truth and save Teddy, and herself, before it is too late. Located in lovely Sea Pines Center

Dare to be scared?

A literary journey through four-legged companions and unforgettable stories.

Denise Friday, an avid reader, is a school social worker at Hilton Head Island Elementary School. She is also the mother of twins. With Halloween just around the corner, here are her chilling reading suggestions for October to get you in the spooky spirit.

THE CELLAR BY NATASHA PRESTON

In a sleepy little town outside of London, it is perfectly safe for Summer Robinson to walk a few blocks to meet up with friends. It should be anyway, until she disappears without a trace. She finds herself tossed into a basement with three other girls, all to satisfy their captor's idea of having a “family.” Several months go by as these girls learn how to survive while Summer’s family never gives up looking for her. This is a YA novel and reads like one, but the suspense will keep you reading to the end.

HIDDEN PICTURES BY JASON REKULAK

EVERYONE

IN MY FAMILY HAS KILLED SOMEONE BY BENJAMIN STEVENSON

Author and self-professed crime connoisseur Ernie Cunningham has been told he must be present at this year’s annual family reunion. The location is an isolated mountain resort with a pending storm. What could go wrong? The following morning the first body appears. Told in a colloquial, conversational manner peppered with deliciously dry, dark humor, this twisted family had more secrets and lies than the long list of suspects. Delightful.

HOW TO SELL A HAUNTED HOUSE BY GRADY HENDRIX

When Louise gets a call from her brother that their parents have been killed in an accident, she reluctantly flies to her childhood home in Charleston. Creepy dolls and hundreds of puppets her mother made are among the many reasons she wants to get rid of everything and sell the house. But she and her brother start to realize something is off, and the house may just not want to be sold. Hendrix is a master at mixing horror with laugh-out-loud humor and absurd occurrences.

CHASING THE BOOGEYMAN BY RICHARD CHIZMAR

A brilliant combination of true crime and fiction writing will make you keep checking what is true and what is made up. The author has inserted himself into this story as a bystander searching for a killer in his hometown in Maryland in the late '80s. Several teenage girls go missing and then turn up mutilated and posed. The entire town is gripped with fear, and rumors are spreading fast. If you love this genre, check out his sequel, Becoming the Boogeyman.

Sponsored By Carolina Vet Critical Care

w2024 Forbes Best-ln-State Wealth Management Teams: Awarded January 2024; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/22–3/31/23 (Source: Forbes.com) The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC, which does not receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a rating. Investment performance is not a criterion. Selfcompleted survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a

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Winnie, a beautiful Beagle mix, arrived at Hilton Head Humane shy and afraid of almost everything. Though still a bit timid, she's slowly blossoming into quite the charismatic canine. Her greatest love? Toys. If she thinks something might be a toy, it's instantly her baby, and she'll proudly sneak it back to her kennel. The staff has to "declutter" her space regularly. Winnie’s also a total social butterfly with other animals — she adores both dogs and cats like Cornelius (see below). She especially lights up around dogs who love to run, chase and be her personal marathon partners. And yes, she loves humans too… but let’s be real: pets just know how to have more fun! Adopt this Pet: Winnie FOR THIS AVID TOY COLLECTOR,

MORE ABOUT WINNIE

Colors: White and brown Age: 3 1/2 Weight: 35 pounds

Likes: Fellow furry companions and playtime with her toys. Dislikes: When Cornelius won’t help her steal his extra food. Adopt: You can meet Winnie from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily at Hilton Head Humane. For more information, call 843-681-8686 or visit his profile at hhhumane.org

COOL CAT: Cornelius

Cornelius is finally embracing his role as the resident cool cat. When he first arrived at the shelter, this white and gray beauty was shy and spent most of his days tucked under blankets. But thanks to the care and attention from staff and volunteers, Cornelius has blossomed into a confident, playful companion. Nearly 2 years old and weighing 9 pounds, he’s particularly fond of yummy treats, sparkly toys and sneakily playing with the office phones. His confidence has grown even more with the help of his office buddy, Winnie (yes, the dog above). Though he hasn’t met other cats yet due to being FIV+, he’s eager to make some feline friends in the future.

Official Mensa®Challenge

CAN YOU KEEP UP?

Don't fall behind, get moving and solve this Mensa quiz!

1. “It's remarkable how time flies," said the husband to his young wife. "When we were married, 25 years ago, I was exactly twice as old as you." He looked at her in astonishment, and continued, "But now I am only half again as old." How old are they now, and how old were they when they were married?

2. You are at the track, watching your favorite horse lose by two lengths. If you can be distracted from this fact long enough to take a good look, you will see that there are 2 horses in front of a horse, 2 horses behind a horse, and 1 horse in the middle. How many horses are you looking at?

3. Give the word that is the opposite of the scrambled word below: P P S S E I A N H

4. Jane is older than Susie. Susie is older than William. William is younger than Jane. William is older than Nancy. Nancy is younger than Susie. Who is the youngest (provided, of course all are telling the truth about their ages.)?

5. The number in the middle of each triangle is related to the numbers at the points. The same relationship applies to all 4 triangles. What should the center number be in the last triangle?

ANSWER KEY

1. They are now 50 and 75. They were 25 and 50 when they were married 25 years ago. 2. Only 3. 3. Sadness (or an equivalent of sadness.) The jumbled word is happiness. 4. Nancy 5. It is product of multiplying the numbers on the points. The answer is 24.

ARE YOU READY FOR MENSA?

American Mensa is where brilliance belongs – it’s where friendships are forged for life, business connections and opportunities are made, and where brilliant minds find the chance to engage with others in an intellectually stimulating environment. Just for LocalLife readers: Take the Mensa Practice Test for just $5! Visit americanmensa. org/mht and use offer code: Local21. Quiz © 2018 Dr. Abbie F. Salny

Mensa provides official tests and answers to LOCAL Life as part of an exclusive license agreement. Answers are available on LocalLifeSC.com/Mensa

Lowcountry’s #1 choice for medical and surgical eye care services is proud to offer LASIK surgery services performed by preeminent surgeon Dr. Paul Bell, MD. At Bishop Eye Center, we’re helping set the world standard with the best surgeons, the best technologies, the best patient care, and the best value in the Lowcountry.

Inside LOCAL Life

oOctober marks our seventh year, so it’s our birthday month! Instead of receiving a wooden plaque to mark our seventh, we once again hired an independent auditor to review all of our data to ensure our claims to our advertisers about you, our reader, are true and accurate. October is also the month that the U.S. Post Office requires mailed periodical publications to publish an “Ownership Statement” that summarizes its distribution.

We live for the action-packed, active lifestyle shared with friends and complemented by our award-winning Racquets Center at the very heart of Moss Creek. We love the perfect match of living at the epicenter of burgeoning Bluffton, SC and the pristine beaches of Hilton Head Island. We love the option of a day trip to our choice of Savannah or Charleston. Join us at the perfect marriage of location and lifestyle.

SURVEY SAID...

No one can predict the future - that’s why we have insurance.

As an independent insurance agency, we do the di cult work of finding the best rates and coverages for your specific needs. We want you to spend less time worrying if you’re properly insured and more time enjoying your life. No one can predict the future, but Kinghorn Insurance Agency can make sure it’s protected.

The hot list

What to watch, read and listen to in October

WHITE BIRD (adventure)

STREAMING MOVIE THEATERS

NETFLIX THE MENENDEZ BROTHERS (true crime) In the chilling tradition of Dahmer, The Menendez Brothers is the latest installment in Netflix’s Monster anthology. This true-crime drama revisits the infamous 1989 murders of Jose and Kitty Menendez by their sons, Lyle and Erik. The series dives deep into the twisted psyches of the brothers, who are still serving time for their crimes. Thirty-five years after the murders, the Menendez brothers once again capture the nation’s attention. Release date: Oct. 9

APPLE TV DISCLAIMER (drama) Cate Blanchett stars as a documentary filmmaker who receives a mysterious package, igniting a whirlwind of suspense. The package contains a novel in which she unknowingly becomes a character, threatening to reveal a dark secret she has kept hidden for years.

Release date: Oct. 11

PRIME VIDEO ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A CELEBRITY? (game show) Remember Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader? This reboot is hosted by NFL star Travis Kelce, adding a fresh twist to the classic game show. Contestants face off against celebrities, answering trivia questions for a shot at a $100,000 prize. Will the celebrities hold their own, or will the everyday contestants outsmart them?

Release date: Oct. 26

FOX 2024 WORLD SERIES (baseball) Baseball fans, get ready for the most exciting time of the year! The 2024 World Series will be broadcast live on Fox, with streaming available on Fox Sports and other streaming platforms. Whether you’re rooting for your team or just in it for the thrill of America’s favorite pastime, the World Series promises edge-of-your-seat action, unforgettable moments and a chance to witness history in the making. Game 1: Oct. 25

White Bird, based on R.J. Palacio’s novel, continues the heartfelt storytelling of Wonder. Julian (Bryce Gheisar), reeling from his expulsion, is visited by his grandmother (Helen Mirren), who shares harrowing tales of surviving Nazi-occupied France. Through her stories Julian learns about compassion, heroism and unconditional love.

Release date: Oct. 4

THE OUTRUN (drama)

In The Outrun, Saoirse Ronan portrays Rona, who returns to her roots in Scotland’s remote Orkney Islands after a turbulent life in London. As she revisits her past, Rona discovers a part of herself she thought was lost. This film is adapted from Amy Liptrot’s bestselling memoir.

Release date: Oct. 4

SATURDAY NIGHT (comedy)

Celebrating 50 years of Saturday Night Live, this biopic takes viewers behind the scenes of the first cast and production team. It chronicles the tense moments before the iconic phrase

“Live from New York – it’s Saturday Night!” was broadcast for the first time, defying naysayers and launching a comedy institution.

Release date: Oct. 11

BOOKS

REVENGE OF THE TIPPING POINT

By Malcolm Gladwell (nonfiction)

Malcolm Gladwell revisits the concepts from his groundbreaking book, The Tipping Point, with 25 years of new insights. In Revenge of the Tipping Point, Gladwell explores the power of viral trends, social media and the modern internet landscape in shaping human behavior and societal shifts.

Release date: Oct. 1

THE GLASS GIRL

By Kathleen Glasgow (fiction)

Fifteen-year-old Bella feels trapped by the pressures of high school, family and social life. Turning to alcohol to cope, she soon faces a night she can’t remember and a future she can’t escape. The Glass Girl is a poignant exploration of addiction and the strength of community in helping a young girl find her way.

Release date: Oct. 1

MY MAGNOLIA SUMMER

By Victoria Benton Frank (local)

Maggie returns to Sullivan’s Island from New York to help her sister and finds herself reconnecting with her roots. As she helps her family’s restaurant get back on track, Maggie discovers that sometimes coming home is the best way to find yourself.

Release date: Out now

W. A. Hunter Montgomery, Esq.

Since joining the South Carolina Bar in 2002, Hunter Montgomery has specialized in estate planning and probate law, offering free resources to secure clients’ legacies for their families and pets. He enjoys facilitating client support for cherished charities. Actively supporting Bluffton Self Help, Hunter contributes to a community empowered by education, training, and basic needs assistance. Additionally, he helps organizations focused on Alzheimer’s and dementia care, underscoring his commitment to both individual financial security and broader community welfare. Hunter’s work reflects a blend of professional expertise and a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact.

Making an estate plan is a big and important step; a step that no one should take without being fully informed. Our mission and our passion is to make a difference, one family at a time.

Halloween movie night

ONCE THE PORCH LIGHT IS OUT AND THE COSTUMES ARE OFF, SETTLE IN FOR THE BEST HALLOWEEN MOVIES FOR YOUR NIGHT.

The classic horror buff

Halloween (1978)

Personality: You appreciate the genre’s roots and don’t shy away from a little oldschool slasher gore. You find joy in the eerie silence before Michael Myers strikes and get a thrill from the perfect build-up of tension.

Why you’ll love it: This movie is a true horror classic and encapsulates everything that makes Halloween chilling. Plus, the mask? Iconic. Perfect for the brave viewer who loves a slice of terror.

Stream it: Prime Video

SCARE METER

Spookiness:

Entertainment: Halloween vibes:

The comedy fan

Shaun of the Dead (2004)

Personality: You’re more about the laughs than the frights. Give you some zombies, but make it funny. You’re always in for a good laugh even when the undead start roaming the streets.

Why you’ll love it: This horror-comedy mix is a delight for anyone who doesn’t take Halloween too seriously. With a good balance of laughs and light scares, this one will keep you entertained without giving you nightmares.

Stream it: Hulu

SCARE METER

Spookiness: Entertainment: Halloween vibes:

oOnce the candy bucket has been emptied and costumes have been peeled off like sweaty banana peels after surviving a neighborhood walk through our absurdly warm October evenings, it’s finally time for the real fun to begin. Now, with the porch light off and the house cloaked in dark, air-conditioned bliss, it’s the perfect moment to stream a Halloween movie. Whether you're in the mood for laughs, chills or scratching your head at a mystery, there's a flick just waiting to fit your Halloween vibe.

The “I can handle anything” type

Hereditary (2018)

Personality: Nothing gets under your skin ... or does it? You consider yourself an aficionado of all things disturbing and want a movie that challenges your psychological limits. The more haunting, the better. Why you’ll love it: Hereditary is not for the faint of heart. Its combination of psychological horror and shockingly intense moments makes it a great pick for those who truly want to be disturbed this Halloween.

Stream it: Prime Video

SCARE METER

Spookiness: Entertainment: Halloween vibes:

The whimsical spirit

Coraline (2009)

Personality: You prefer your Halloween with a touch of magic, a bit of darkness and a visually stunning world. You like your films to feel like a storybook come to life, even if there are some scary parts along the way. Why you’ll love it: Coraline is the perfect mix of whimsy and creepiness. Its visually striking stop-motion animation and otherworldly story make it a beautiful (and slightly eerie) Halloween treat for the dreamers out there.

Stream it: HBO Max

SCARE METER

Spookiness: Entertainment: Halloween vibes:

The laughing scaredy-cat

Hocus Pocus (1993)

Personality: You want a little witchcraft but prefer it served with a side of laughs rather than jump scares. You enjoy charming characters, a magical storyline and maybe a sing-along or two.

Why you’ll love it: The Sanderson Sisters bring all the right ingredients for Halloween fun without the fear factor. This one’s for those who prefer family-friendly, cozy Halloween vibes but still want to join in on the spooky season.

Stream it: Disney+

SCARE METER

Spookiness: Entertainment: Halloween vibes:

The 'I'm here for the thrills' person

The Conjuring (2013)

Personality: You love highstakes horror that makes your heart pound. Jump scares, demonic possessions and nerve-wracking tension are all right up your alley. You watch these films with all the lights off — if you dare. Why you’ll love it: Packed with scares and a spinechilling storyline, The Conjuring is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. This is for the brave souls who seek out scares that will stay with them long after the credits roll.

Stream it: Prime Video, HBO Max

SCARE METER

Spookiness: Entertainment: Halloween vibes:

Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund

MISSION

The Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund, previously known as the Hargray Charitable Fund, is dedicated to advancing education, strengthening communities and improving lives across the regions served by Cable One and its family of brands (Sparklight, Fidelity Communications, ValuNet Fiber and CableAmerica). Through strategic philanthropy and impactful partnerships, the fund supports nonprofit organizations that foster strong, vibrant communities, enhance quality of life and drive positive change where we live and work.

HOW TO HELP

Get involved by identifying local organizations that resonate with your passions or support causes important to you. Sparklight partners with many nonprofit organizations that rely on volunteers and donations to further their missions. Visit sparklight.com/ charitablegiving to learn more about these organizations and how you can make a difference.

HISTORY

Hargray, a longstanding provider of cable, phone and internet services in the Lowcountry, was acquired by Cable One in 2021 and was rebranded as Sparklight. In line with this transition, the Hargray Charitable Fund became the Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund. Each year the fund distributes $250,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations, demonstrating Sparklight’s continued commitment to supporting community-based initiatives.

SPARKING CHANGE

Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund applications are accepted in April and October of each year, and funds are granted in May and November. Fall applications will be open from Oct. 1-31. Learn more at sparklight. com/charitablegiving.

WHOM IT HELPS

Guided by its core values of serving communities, fostering progress and extending a helping hand, the Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund supports a diverse array of programs. These include STEM education in local schools, vocational training and life-skills development for individuals with disabilities, capital campaigns for social services and advocacy for vulnerable populations such as abused and neglected children, families in crisis and the homeless. The fund provides grants to nonprofits focusing on education, digital literacy, hunger relief, food insecurity and community development. Recent grants have supported initiatives in teen suicide prevention, homelessness resources, poverty alleviation and child advocacy.

MORE INFORMATION For additional details about the Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund, including ways to contribute or apply for a grant, visit its website at sparklight.com/charitablegiving or email charitablegiving@cableone.biz.

Considering a Knee Replacement?

Did you know that celebrities and athletes avoid surgery and fly to Panama, Mexico, or Germany to receive stem cells?

Since 2018, The Fraum Center has helped thousands of patients get their lives back through restorative medicine therapy. If you’ve been considering a knee or joint replacement and have been seeking an alternative to surgery, call our office to book a private consultation today.

Heather Hinshelwood, MD is passionate about healthy living and influencing others to make healthier choices to improve their lives. She focuses on non-surgical solutions to joint replacement surgery.

Hinshelwood, MD

What makes them

local

adjective. lo·cal | lō-kəl

INSPIRED BY NATURE

Little fish BOATEAK’s coastal-inspired jewelry is more than just an accessory — it’s a reflection of the Lowcountry’s natural beauty. You can find it at local retailers, festivals and pop-up events across the region.

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

Little fish, big dreams

LOWCOUNTRY JEWEL

Lissy Rawl is the visionary behind little fish BOATEAK, a distinctive jewelry line inspired by the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. What began as a passion project in her one-car garage on Hilton Head Island quickly transformed into a thriving business, gaining widespread attention in 2017 when one of her pieces was featured in Southern Living.

iSTORY BY BECCA EDWARDS

In high school Lissy Rawl earned the title of "the next Martha Stewart," a fitting prediction for someone whose creativity would eventually flourish into a thriving business. A Lowcountry local since 2000, Rawl’s family moved to the area while she was a freshman at Michigan State. In the summer of 2014, inspired by the natural beauty of the Lowcountry, she launched little fish BOATEAK from the modest space of her one-car garage. "I worked while my then 2-year-old played nearby with a water table and a hose," Rawl recalls. Today, her handcrafted custom jewelry has become a favorite across the Lowcountry. LOCAL Life sat down with Rawl to learn more about her inspirational journey.

[Q] What is it like to work with your hands and make beautiful things for a living? [A] I absolutely love working with my hands and creating all kinds of things, from knitting and painting to sewing.

[Q] What are some of the materials you work with? [A] I am known for combining my signature hammered-earring shapes with wallcovering, leather and fabric. I find the most inspiration in working with different materials and love the challenge of creating unique pieces in a crowded jewelry market. From wire wrapping and bead stringing, to painting textiles, hammering metal, sewing fabric and knotting rope, I’m always pushing myself to craft one-of-a-kind designs.

[Q] You also made a beautiful family. Do they also like to make things? [A] My family has been the heart and soul behind my brand. My husband, Bill, gave me the push I needed to turn my idea of making earrings from fabric-sample books into reality. He’s been by my side through it all — setting up tents at festivals, packaging orders and even managing the sales tax. Our daughters, Woodley and Willa, have also been along for the ride, starting out by stringing beads and packaging pieces, and now they've launched their own small capsule collection.

[Q] Who are some of your favorite artists? [A] I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by so many talented artists, like my friends Leli Holmes, Andrea Smith from 7th and Palm and Susan Rafetto from Peace by Piece. We really lean on each other for support and often grab a coffee to motivate and inspire one another.

[Q] What is your biggest inspiration? [A] I'm deeply inspired by the Lowcountry and the coast. The incredible vibe and style of our area come so naturally to me in my designs — it feels like a seamless, intuitive process.

[Q] What do you consider your greatest achievement? [A] I feel like my greatest achievement is still to come. I’m deeply grateful for my family and my small business, but I believe there’s much more for me to achieve. Each day brings new opportunities and insights, and I’m excited to use my ideas and energy to reach new heights.

[Q] What is your motto in life? [A] Dreams don’t work unless you do.

[Q] What is one fun fact about yourself that no one else knows? [A] I listen to Christmas music all year long and was in a traveling dance group with Katie Holmes. LL

Local business buzz

NEW VENTURES READY TO MAKE THEIR MARKS ON THE LOWCOUNTRY.

STORY BY SHEILA PAZ

The Lowcountry is buzzing with new businesses, and we’ve got the scoop. Whether you’re looking to stretch, sculpt or sip your way to bliss, these new ventures are here to help you do it in style. So dust off those sneakers, polish up those nails, and prepare to indulge in some serious retail therapy.

TrainersLab

Now open Business news

StretchLab 890 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head

If touching your toes feels like an Olympic sport, StretchLab is here to save the day. Their services promise to turn your stiff-as-a-board self into a limber yoga master. Whether you're looking to enhance your sports performance or simply want to tie your shoes without pulling a muscle, StretchLab has you covered.

1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head

Ever feel like the gym just isn't exclusive enough? Enter TrainersLab, where cuttingedge equipment and personal fitness programs meet VIP treatment. Whether you’re sculpting abs or just pretending to know what all the machines do, you’ll feel like a fitness elite.

Pretty Nails & Spa 807 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head

Nails looking like they’ve been through a horror movie? Fear not,

Pretty Nails & Spa is here to rescue your digits. With a menu full of manicure and pedicure options — and new owners with more experience than your grandma’s recipe box — you’re guaranteed to leave feeling like a whole new person.

Kayla DeVito Fine Art

811 Bay Street, Beaufort

Hawaii

Fluid Art

20 Hatton Place, Hilton Head

Hawaii Fluid Art isn’t just a studio — it’s a creativity hotspot. If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at fluid art, resin tumblers or glass painting, this is the place. And if you’re less of a doer and more of a buyer, there’s plenty of stunning art to take home. It’s the perfect spot to get your creative juices flowing — or to just appreciate someone else’s.

Dive into the art scene at Kayla DeVito Fine Art, where you can marvel at original works, watch art being created and even take a class to unleash your inner Picasso. This studio and gallery combo is the newest addition to Beaufort’s cultural landscape, and it’s quickly becoming a favorite for both artists and art lovers.

Charleston Shoe Company

41 Calhoun Street, Bluffton Who says comfort can’t be stylish? Charleston Shoe Company is here to prove that you can strut your stuff without suffering. Whether you're walking around Old Town or busting a move on the dance floor, these shoes will keep your arches happy.

Elis and Nash

Habersham Marketplace, Beaufort

Elis and Nash is where your Pinterest home-decor dreams come to life. This modern, bespoke home-furnishing store offers high-quality furniture, fine art and decor that looks like it belongs in a magazine. Stop by and pick up a piece that will make your home the envy of the neighborhood.

Wildflower Girls

54 Bridge Street, Bluffton Calling all mini fashionistas. Wildflower Girls is your new go-to spot for everything trendy and fun. With clothes, shoes and accessories for girls aged 6-16, this boutique is the perfect place to find that next outfit for your little style icon.

One Tree Planted update

Earlier this year LOCAL Life embarked on an environmental mission, vowing to plant over 5,000 trees. We are thrilled to announce that this month we have almost reached the mark with 4.500 trees planted. Our commitment offsets our environmental footprint and contributes to the reforestation efforts across North America. Learn more at onetreeplanted.org

Port Royal library now open

A new Beaufort County library has opened in Port Royal. It carries child, teen and adult collections of books with more than 5,000 materials, including books, movies and much more. The new library includes meeting and conference rooms, public computers and a self-service scan, fax and email station.

BE THE BUZZ

Discover a new business gem in the Lowcountry? Share your find. Email details to info@wearelocallife.com to help us spotlight the newest local treasures.

DO YOU SUFFER WITH WE CAN HELP!

Have you been told there is NOTHING to do about your neuropathy? We have ANSWERS.

Dr. Ken’s NON-INVASIVE Neuropathy Relief Program has helped many in Beaufort County restore their bodies.

His promise to you is to recommend the BEST treatment option, morally, ethically, and physically to help you reach your goals.

PATIENT STORY:

“For years I had been developing tingling and stinging in my toes. It was just getting worse and worse. I was only sleeping 2-3 hours a night. I knew I had to do something about it. I can’t be more pleased with the results I have. The stinging is gone, and I can sleep 6 hours! My only regret was not meeting Dr. Ken 12 years earlier.” – Jim C.

Words of warriors

INSPIRATIONAL QUOTES FROM LOCAL BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS.

STORY BY BECCA EDWARDS

Becca Edwards is a wellness professional, freelance writer, owner of Female IQ and a breast-cancer survivor.

a

A breast cancer diagnosis, regardless of type, stage or prognosis, feels like a punch in the gut — not just for the patient, but for their friends and family as well. When the news comes, it can feel suffocating, making it hard to breathe, even harder to speak and nearly impossible to comprehend. Though breast cancer is not a club anyone hopes to join, the women — and some men — who are encountered along the journey offer invaluable lessons about the strength of the breast cancer community and the person one aspires to become. It is our hope that if you or someone you know is facing breast cancer, these words from local survivors will offer comfort, positivity and the strength to embrace the warrior within.

"Keep a positive attitude. Do your own research so you can weigh in on treatment recommendations. Ask questions to be sure you fully understand what’s recommended. Seek out friends that have gone through treatment and let them help and encourage you."

— CAROL KEENAN

"My faith, family, and friends all played a crucial role in my cancer journey. I leaned hard on my faith when things were difficult. My family motivated me to continue to fight, even on the most difficult days. I learned to say 'yes' to my friends when they offered to help. Cancer taught me many life lessons: it’s all about faith, perspective and being grateful for the little things."

— JULIE RICHARDSON

"Be gentle with yourself and embrace the grief after the diagnosis. We have a choice on how we respond to our suffering. Keep the faith and hope that everything will work out for the best. Life can still be wonderful after breast cancer."

— MEG MECCARIELLO

Knowledge is power

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the significant progress in early detection and support that is improving survival rates. Thanks to advancements in screening, the five-year relative survival rate for breast cancer detected in its earliest, localized stages has reached 99 percent. Early detection — catching cancer before it spreads — is key to saving lives. Download a free guide to learn how to recognize the signs of breast cancer and take proactive steps for your health at nationalbreastcancer.org

“When you are given a cancer diagnosis, you have two choices: you either throw in the towel and say 'Why me?' or you do your research, stay proactive and continue to dance in the rain — because the sun will most definitely shine again soon. A year and a half later, I see nothing but the sun!"

— DEBI WEST

"One of the most important things I learned in my breast cancer journey is to reach out to other survivors. Having a team of 'boob buddies' in place has been invaluable to me. I have met so many women willing to share their experiences, information and advice. The options after diagnosis are sometimes overwhelming. Having women talk about their surgery, treatment and post care has been a huge help in my personal recovery."

— LINDY RUSSELL

“Select doctors that you genuinely like and trust. Get your answers from them. Leaning on social media sites for information can introduce a lot of fear and unnecessarily plant seeds of worry.”

— JOY VINSON

A screening mammogram is one of the best tools for detecting breast cancer early. Isn’t your health worth it?

Easy as 1-2-3

3 LOCATIONS!Beaufort, Okatie, and Hilton Head Island

Select Your Location

To purchase your screening mammogram, visit BeaufortMemorial.org/SaveOnMammos.

Select your preferred location (Beaufort, Okatie or Hilton Head Island) and click “Add to Cart.”

Buy

Now,

Schedule

Make Your Purchase Online

Pay in advance by October 31 with a credit card, HSA/FSA account, or PayPal. Vouchers can be used up to six months from the time of purchase.

Schedule Your Mammogram

Visit BeaufortMemorial.org/ MammoAppointment or call 843-522-5015 to schedule your mammogram. Bring your voucher receipt to your appointment.

Later – Purchase a $99 screening mammogram voucher from MDsave during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, then schedule with Beaufort Memorial in the next six months. Promotional pricing applies to 3D screening mammogram vouchers purchased through MDsave between October 1-31. If other procedures or views are necessary at the time of the exam, there may be additional charges for the patient and/or their insurance plan.

Meet the makers

ANYONE CAN DREAM A DREAM. WHAT’S INSPIRING IS SEEING THAT DREAM COAXED INTO EXISTENCE.

tSTORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA STAFF

There’s an old saying that talk is cheap. It’s nothing more than wind, carrying thoughts and ideas that die as quickly as the words vanish in the breeze.

What’s worth something, perhaps the only thing worth anything, is what you make from those words. You can talk about creating a beautiful work of art, but that art doesn’t exist until you create it. You can carry around an idea for a tune, but it’s nothing more than electric static in your brain until you birth it into song. You can know the way to make something, but that’s not the same as making the commitment to see it take shape.

This month we salute those makers who turned their dreams into reality, no matter what form that dream took. They had the vision, then they got busy making it happen. Meet three makers who prove that when you stop talking and start doing, the possibilities are endless.

additional images from these photo shoots online at LocalLifeSC.com

This

Matthew Morris

master craftsman is carving his legacy with a subtractive philosophy.

aAccording to Matthew Morris, the biggest trick of woodworking isn’t making something. It’s unmaking something.

“Woodworking is a craft of removing things to make something. It’s not an additive art,” he said. “If you’re removing something and you make a mistake, that’s OK. You just set it aside and move on. You’re not failing; you’re learning to be better the next time.”

It’s a philosophy he’s gained over the last 15 or so years, as he’s watched his woodworking grow from a hobby to an obsession to a calling. Originally a side gig while he oversaw the software company he’d built, he realized soon after starting that he had an aptitude for the subtractive art of woodworking. It’s not only the knowledge of different woods and how they come together but how the art form has evolved, intertwining different influences.

“It started because I bought a condo and decided to remodel it myself, including building the furniture,” he said. “Doing that inside the condo isn’t the easiest thing in the world, so I got a commercial site.”

From there he started building pieces for people he knew, customized down to the last grain. Realizing there was a bigger market for his art, he began running ads in Robb Report, the famed luxury magazine aimed at the upper crust. From there his reputation grew, leading to working with California’s Gamble House and the homes of famous athletes around the world as he caught the eye of several professional players associations.

“When I started, I was doing other people’s stuff, and that really helped me get into a style and learn why people did certain things,” he said. “You learn someone else’s language, then develop your own. And that was the hardest part.”

WIZARD OF WOODCRAFT Matthew Morris, master craftsman and owner of MM Wood Studio on Hilton Head Island, has been creating heirloom-quality furniture since 2010. Initially gaining recognition for arts-and crafts-style pieces, he later launched an online woodworking school. Now he focuses on smallbatch, custom furniture, available locally at Carolina Jasmine. His work has been featured in Popular Woodworking and Fine Woodworking

His style leans heavily on the arts and crafts pieces of early 1900s America, with clean lines and exposed joinery. As he says, “It’s just letting the wood speak for itself.”

He spent several years sharing the secrets of his art, leading an online woodworking school whose student body stretched around the world. He enjoyed the ability it gave him to interact with other woodworkers, while passing along the knowledge he’d acquired, but ultimately shuttered it last year to focus more on building custom pieces.

Today his creations keep the saws running at his MM Wood Studio, where he crafts custom pieces of every kind that are sold through Carolina Jasmine, the boutique opened by his wife, Elizabeth. With some pieces he’s creating furniture for a client across the world. For others, he’s taking in red oaks harvested from a lot near Dolphin Point to create furniture in the home for which the trees were cleared.

“That was great. They cut down the red oaks, a guy on the island helped mill them, they were dried upstate, then we built furniture using the trees from their own property,” he said.

faces

Dr. Lunsford!

Have a seat Welcome

We are thrilled to welcome Tristan Lunsford, DMD, to our practice! A Detroit native, Dr. Lunsford practiced dentistry in Chicago before moving to the Lowcountry to join our incredible team. He is kind, patient, and talented at surgical dentistry, including implants and smile restoration. His arrival enables us to better serve our patients and contribute more to our local community.

Call today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Lunsford.

wWhile he’s built countless pieces of furniture in his years behind the table saw, there are several pieces of which Matthew Morris is particularly proud. One is an intricate rocking chair created in partnership with the Gamble House, a California landmark and icon of the arts-and-crafts movement.

“That is the most complicated and intricate piece I’ve ever built,” he said. Still, it was worth it just for the unprecedented access it gave him to the home’s secret spaces as he took detailed photographs to craft a replica of a historic rocking chair –albeit one scaled up to modern size. “If you sat in the original, your knees would come up to your chest.”

Another piece is the Nova dining chair seen here. “I’ve been wanting to build more of a modern chair for a while, so when we moved to Hilton Head, I designed the nova dining set for our house here,” he said. “It’s really comfy: the seat is ash, and the frame is walnut, so the light ash contrasts with the darker walnut.”

Courtney Cutchins

This vocal coach and performer is crafting a new sound, merging the soul of jazz with the edge of grunge.

wWhen you think of a maker, you probably picture someone working with their hands. But not everything that is made is built from elements of the physical world. Take a song, for example. Even the simplest of melodies represents a corralling of notes that exist only in the moment they’re being played, grasped from the air during their fleeting lifespan and woven together to make music. And even then, this tune is only effective if it resonates with the listener, playing on some part of our universal experience.

And once all that’s done, that song must be performed. And even as intuitive an instrument as the human voice must be mastered before it can create music.

Courtney Cutchins knows this too well as a 20-year vocal coach and performer. And if she looks entirely too young to have a 20-year career as anything, you should know she got her start very young.

“I first began teaching when I was in high school, working with the children of people who had heard me sing,” she said. “It’s been an incredible evolution, from those early days to now working mostly with adult clients, helping them tap into their own vocal and creative freedom in profound and deep ways — however best serves them. Because we all have a voice, and we use it every day of our lives.”

The Seattle native eventually made her way to New York City, where she earned her master of music degree in jazz vocal performance from the prestigious Manhattan School of Music. While she was studying, however, a little bit of that classic Big Apple magic nearly derailed her singing career.

“I started getting sick, and it turned out I had black mold in the walls of my apartment. While the apartment was very clean, I lived in it for three years not even knowing,” she said. “One doctor I went to just told me, ‘Welcome to New York. It’s a gross place. You get sick; what are you going to do?’”

Having to work against the constant strain of what she thought was laryngitis provided to be a pyrrhic blessing.

“I was exploring exercises to reinspire and encourage myself in creating more music and not feeling exhausted and stuck. One of them was to revisit music from my childhood,” she said. And that’s when Cutchins discovered the way her distinctive voice, once removed from the illness of her apartment, gave fresh air to the grunge music she’d grown up with. “I’m heavily rooted in jazz music and love the traditional sounds of that, but it started to feel a little limiting in my head.”

That exercise launched her headlong into finding the intersection of jazz and grunge, two wildly disparate music styles that she brings together in her debut album, Grunge to Grace, which drops on Oct. 18.

“I was rearranging grunge tunes, and as I started writing my original stuff, there were elements that you’d typically hear in grunge that started working their way in,” she said. “Some people are saying, ‘Yeah, this is jazz.’ Some are saying, ‘I don’t know what this is.’ It’s kind of fun to have something that people can’t put their finger on. The whole point is the journey to your unique and authentic self, musically and otherwise, so it’s fitting to think that this is being reflected on the album.”

MELODY MAKER Courtney Cutchins, a jazz/rock vocalist and entrepreneur, made the move to Hilton Head Island from New York City a few years ago. With nearly two decades of experience as a vocal coach, she has guided clients from across the country and the Lowcountry through her studio, Seadragon Songhouse. This month Cutchins is set to release her debut album, Grunge to Grace, featuring top-tier jazz musicians from NYC, including David Cook, musical director for Taylor Swift.

No Tricks!

Street Medical is a premier urgent care and family practice serving individuals and families in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Led by Joel Johnson III, MD, the team aims to treat all their patients with dignity and compassion by providing comprehensive medical care services that promote a healthy community.

A physician-owned practice, Main Street Medical has a large team of health care professionals able to provide a wide variety of services that include both primary and urgent care. In addition to adult and pediatric care, the team also provides women’s care, x-rays, laboratory services, medication assistance, and employment physicals.

Main

(from left) Franics Imbarrato, MD, Carlos Cordero, MD, Joel Johnson III, MD, Van Gauby, MD, Nicole Clegg, MSN, APRN, FNP-C,

fSweet release

Featuring six original songs and three jazz-flavored reimaginings of ‘90s grunge-era classics, Courtney Cutchins’ new album, Grunge to Grace, represents the culmination of a musical journey that started when she was in college. It was then that the first bars of what would become the second track on the album, "Star on the Sea," crossed her mind.

That original will join Soundgarden classics like “Boot Camp” and “The Day I Tried to Live” as well as Nirvana’s iconic “All Apologies” on an album that blends genres into something entirely Cutchins’ own.

You can hear it for yourself at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 at SoundWaves on Hilton Head Island (tickets online at Eventbrite). There, during an epic release party, she’ll be joined on stage by musical royalty, Taylor Swift musical director, David Cook.

“I was referred to him through the grapevine of musicians I was reaching out to when I was putting this project together,” said Cutchins. “He really dug the music and said, ‘People need to hear this.’ It’s always amazing to work with people who are ridiculously talented and ridiculously kind.”

EVER VIGILANT

WOUND & HYPERBARICS

Some wounds don’t heal quickly. That’s why our physician-driven, multidisciplinary healthcare team at St. Joseph’s/Candler specializes in the advanced treatment of acute and non-healing wounds.

Smart care that focuses on a wholebody approach to wound healing, including state-of-the-art hyperbaric chambers that utilize pure oxygen to speed up the process, with no physician referral required. Expect the very best when it comes to healing complex wounds. All conveniently located in the heart of our community. At St. Joseph’s/Candler, we keep the healing close to home.

WE LOOK AFTER THE LOWCOUNTRY.

1-843-837-9000 | WWW.SJCHS.ORG/LOWCOUNTRY

19 MOSS CREEK VILLAGE, SUITE B-4, BLUFFTON, SC 29926

Michelle Lindberg

iThis Bluffton woman is raising the bar in soap making and creativity.

“I can’t do what everybody else does. I have to go the extra mile,” said Michelle Lindberg, standing amid the dizzying kaleidoscope of powders, tinctures and raw materials that is her workshop. “It’s all or nothing. If it’s a craft, I can do it.”

This relentless urge to create has been the biggest strand of Lindberg’s DNA since her youth, picking up cooking because she decided she’d like something fancier than what her mother was making. Over the years this urge has driven from one medium to the next – sewing, quilting, cake decorating, playing the trumpet.

“I’ve always done those things,” she said. “I like to be unique. I’m a little bit extra.”

But one fateful trip to New Orleans in 2019 launched what might just be her biggest obsession yet.

“We walked into a shop selling this old handmade soap. They wanted $15 a bar for this stuff! I just said to myself, ‘Well, I can make that,’” she said. “So as we were driving home, I started researching and ordered my first few tools off of Amazon.”

That first set of tools, and she still has them, are now just a small part of the absolute arsenal at her disposal. Oils, butters, powders, fragrances. Towering stacks of bins bearing inscrutable labels. A kaleidoscope of jars containing mica. Custom-built molds for setting soap in massive blocks to be cut down. Smaller molds for the detailed shapes she adds to some of her more artistic soaps. They line the shelves and cabinets in a workshop that she and her husband, Jim, built themselves, extending the barn where he works on motorcycles and hot rods.

And across one table – the heavenly scented fruits of that labor. Lined up in orderly rows that contrast with the chaos

LATHERED ART Michelle Lindberg is a legal technology consultant who spends her evenings and weekends immersed in her true passion: soap-making. Michelle’s business, Mosaic Garden SoapWorks, specializes in handcrafted, cold-process soaps made with natural oils and butters that are both beautiful and aromatic. Each bar is a unique work of art, from a batch taking anywhere from two to eight hours to create. From formulating the soap to perfecting the design and packaging, Michelle personally handles every detail, even handwriting a thank-you note with each order.

surrounding them, these blocks of soap dazzle with their colorful contours. Some mingle purples and browns, some tan and mocha. Some are embellished with hand-crafted apples, Christmas tree trucks or pumpkins that she meticulously molds one at a time. Some have their designs emblazoned within the bar itself, extruded using tools that Lindberg makes herself using a 3D printer. Some await packaging, some are all ready for shipping, proudly displayed in their Mosaic Garden Soap Works package.

“I’m making everything. I’m marketing, I’m doing the website, I’m doing the packaging… OK, so I don’t lie, my mom does come out to help me clean up sometimes,” she said with a laugh.

Having built everything from the ground up – quite literally, including her workshop – Lindberg has created a business out of her relentless pursuit of learning, making and creating.

Family Focus Financial Group’s Grand Opening

Join Us for a Day of Celebration and Community!

Friday, October 25 at 10:00 AM 7 Carroll Court, Bluffton, SC 29910

We’re thrilled to open our doors in Bluffton, and we’re celebrating with an event you won’t want to miss! Join us for a grand ribbon cutting ceremony with town officials, local leaders, and community members as we kick off this exciting new chapter.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

With special guests, including town officials. Delicious Bites & Refreshments

Celebrate with us and enjoy a variety of tasty treats! Giveaways & Prizes

Receive exciting door prizes and enjoy exclusive surprises! Office Tours

Explore our new space designed to better serve you.

Meet & Greet Our Team

Learn how Family Focus Financial Group is here to support the Greater Bluffton and Hilton Head Island community. Discover how our personalized financial planning can help you secure a brighter financial future for yourself and your loved ones.

This isn’t just about opening a new office — it’s about opening doors to new possibilities for our clients and community. Let’s celebrate the start of something special together!

faces

Silky creations in every batch

aAlong with the ingredients you’d expect to find in soap –fragrances, oils, shea butter, etc. – Michele Lindberg has developed a recipe over the years that includes a few unorthodox ingredients. For example, she adds a bit of mulberry silk to every batch.

Ask her what that does, and she’ll give you the obvious answer –“it makes it silky.”

“You develop soap friends and watch what they do, but I have my recipe, you have yours. One friend of mine, she has goats, so all of her soaps have goat milk. I sometimes use goat milk, but I have it as a powder. You have to be careful how you add it, because the lye will burn it, affecting the color of the soap. It’s about creating something special that people can enjoy every day.”

And for Lindberg, that satisfaction goes far beyond the soaps themselves. It’s in the joy of creating, the connection with her customers and the quiet pride that comes from knowing she’s turned her creative obsession into a business that raises the bar –quite literally – on handmade soaps. LL

The Golf Club at Indigo Run

Country Club of Hilton Head

BRIGHT AND BREEZY The owner of this Sea Pines home envisioned a coastal retreat with traditional accents, featuring a soft color palette complemented by subtle pops of brightness.

HOME SHOWCASE

A new happy place

WHEN DESIGNERS AND OWNERS ALIGN, THEY CREATE MAGIC.

STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN + PHOTOS BY JOHN MCMANUS

m

Most of us who live here were at one point merely regular visitors, with Hilton Head Island as our “happy place” until we could call it our home. The owners of this Sea Pines house were no different, summering here since the age of 14 and continuing their annual pilgrimage as their family grew to include four children.

And when they finally chased their dream to its inevitable conclusion, buying a second-row home in Sea Pines, they had found their happy place. Or they thought they had, until Covid lockdowns brought the entire family under one roof for three months.

“We came to the conclusion that the house we purchased was a great house, but not a great retirement house,” said the owner.

Enter Mike Ruegamer with Group 3 Designs. He had already worked with the owners on the remodel of their previous happy place and was a natural choice for their beach-front one. Knowing what worked and what didn’t with their home was key to a design that blends form and function, allowing the home to expand and suit the entire family or contract when the kids leave.

“We spent a lot of time doing programming, determining what rooms they use, how they use them and the different relationships the rooms have with one another,” said Ruegamer. “And of course it’s all about the view to the beach, so when you come in you get a glimpse of it, but you also get this sense of interior space. It draws the eye to the view upstairs as well, as the house unfolds and draws you to the back.”

The home embraces that beach view with a trio of outdoor areas that bask in ocean scenery. At ground level a brick-walled grotto segues to the pool deck with outdoor dining and a lounge set before a fireplace. Above it a wraparound porch rises via a spiral staircase to a sun-kissed upper terrace.

“The view from that second floor porch is so panoramic,” said Ruegamer. “That’s exactly what they wanted.”

Throughout the home, what they wanted is largely what they got and more. By the owner’s estimation, there were around 15,000 decisions that needed to be made, and they were nearly always in alignment with Ruegamer and Taylor Stone, interior designer with Group 3.

Having the architect and interior designer under one company created an integrated approach. This alignment helped ensure that the many architectural and interior design elements complemented each other, resulting in a harmonious final product.

“The attention to detail was phenomenal,” said the owner.

One of the most important requests was one that Ruegamer not only fulfilled, but elevated in nearly every way.

“It’s a big family, so the kitchen was a very important part of the house,” said Ruegamer. Set beneath a coffered ceiling that unites the space, a center island of dark walnut anchors a gleaming kitchen of custom cabinets, recessed LED lighting and stone counters that run to an eye-catching curved bar.

“They wanted informal dining and seating at the counter, and the curve of that counter opens up the flow as you walk in from the front,” said Ruegamer. “And the owner is a gourmet cook, so we knew we had to have a great kitchen.”

And surrounding that kitchen is a home brilliantly designed to allow the owners to bask in the silence of an empty nest or welcome the entire crew with open arms.

“The way Mike designed the house, it’s multi-faceted. When it’s the two of us, we use the ground level and the kitchen, and we never go upstairs,” said the owner. “But when we have friends, there’s plenty of space and privacy, and when we have our whole family here, it expands and everybody has a place.”

The dedication to form is evident in every beautifully crafted detail. The dedication to function reveals itself when the entire family gathers under one roof, sharing in their new happy place and the way it was designed to bring them together.

“The project began at the onset of the Covid pandemic and took almost three years from the design phase through completion” said Ruegamer. “In that time, you get to know the clients really well, and that ensures a beautiful and functional end result.” LL

VIEW The elegant staircase frames a glimpse of the beach, guiding your eye to the view upstairs as the house unfolds and leads you toward the back.

EFFORTLESS ENTERTAINING

The open floor plan was meticulously crafted to enhance both entertaining and family gatherings, ensuring a seamless flow for socializing and connection.

FRAMING THE

Three times the bliss

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM, THIS SEA PINES HOME COAXES OUT EVERY BIT FROM ITS MAGNIFICENT OCEAN VIEWS.

wSTORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN + PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MCMANUS

When you have an oceanfront home, it’s a given that you’re going to need a beautiful outdoor space from which to take in those views. Faced with a slightly narrow lot and homeowners who wanted to create an interior roomy enough for their extended family to stay, Group 3 Designs enhanced this home’s al fresco profile. Mike Ruegamer with Group 3 pounced on the opportunity to create a three-level space with completely different experiences on each story.

A hidden retreat

Carved out of space opened by the home’s elevated main floor, the grotto blends to the pool deck while carrying the brick from the pool deck, creating a shaded oasis all its own. “When we first showed it to the owners, they thought it was just left over space. As it got built, they realized the possibilities of it, and now they really enjoy it,” said Ruegamer.

Porch perfection

The home’s main floor opens up to a spacious wraparound porch, serving as the main outdoor retreat for the owners between visits from the family. At one end the brick floor wraps to a grilling patio. At the other, a spiral staircase leads to the sun terrace.

Skyward sanctuary

The home’s second story is essentially reserved for family visits, and the terrace that wraps around a central lounge has become their go-to spot. “Interestingly, it’s become a place where people go up to nap,” said the owner. “When my daughter is working remotely, she’ll sit out there with a laptop and work from there.”

SUBTLE SOPHISTICATION This cozy yet vibrant living room in Palmetto Bluff is anchored by a sleek, custom-built fireplace that serves as the room's undeniable focal point. Crafted by Derek Fox of Calhoun Concrete, using glass fiber-reinforced concrete and ultra-high performance concrete, it is both a functional marvel and a stunning work of art.

STORY BY SHEILA PAZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLI BOYD

wWhether it’s the soft glow on a crisp autumn evening or the visual anchor in a beautifully curated space, a fireplace offers both literal and figurative warmth. In this Palmetto Bluff living room, the custom-built fireplace does exactly that, embodying form and function in a way that elevates the entire atmosphere of the home.

Masterfully crafted by Derek Fox of Calhoun Concrete, the fireplace takes the concept of a traditional hearth and transforms it into a modern work of art. Made from glass fiberreinforced concrete and ultra-high performance concrete — three times stronger than standard materials — it allows for intricate detailing while maintaining exceptional durability. Subtle navy hues peek through its polished gray surface, offering a refined touch that commands attention without overpowering the room.

The living area surrounding the fireplace was designed by interior designer Shell Neely of Kelly Caron Designs. It was designed with relaxation and comfort in mind, anchored by a plush gray sectional with vibrant throw pillows. Two soft-green swivel chairs complement the serene tones of the floral-patterned rug, while large windows with floor-length patterned curtains flood the space with natural light. A built-in bar with deep teal cabinetry and brass hardware adds functional flair, making the room ideal for entertaining.

The fireplace is the focal point, but the harmonious blend of vibrant accents, cozy seating and modern elegance creates a welcoming space for connection and style. LL

Ready to entertain?

'TIS THE SEASON FOR THE PERFECT KITCHEN ESSENTIALS

With the holidays approaching, having all the right kitchen essentials for holiday gatherings is a must. We asked Cassandra Schultz from Cassandra’s Kitchen about her must-have kitchen necessities for the festive season. With these essentials you'll be well-equipped to handle everything from elaborate holiday feasts to simple weeknight dinners.

STORY BY SHEILA PAZ

1 . Hotel Silver handled bowl

Take your serving up a notch by placing your holiday snacks and treats in a silver-footed bowl. Their sturdy bases provide elegance while ensuring stability. Clean them regularly with gentle polish and a soft cloth to safeguard their shine. Additionally, store them in tarnish-resistant cloths and bags for long-term preservation.

2 . Stainless steel mixing bowls

Stainless steel bowls are meant for all that life drops, literally. They are known for being extremely strong and durable, making them a kitchen essential. Look for bowls with non-slip bases for stability and rims for easy pouring. To keep them in top condition, wash them with mild detergent and avoid abrasive scrubbers. They can often go in the dishwasher, but hand drying helps prevent water spots and maintains their appearance.

3 . Professional half-sheet pan

One of the most versatile kitchen tools is a professional half-sheet pan, ideal for baking, roasting, one-sheet-pan meals and more. Made from impact-resistant aluminum, it ensures even heat distribution and high-temperature cooking. For the best results, line the pan with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and facilitate cleaning.

4 . Wüsthof knives

Wüsthof knives are known for their precision and durability. Each knife is made from highcarbon stainless steel, allowing for perfect edge retention and resistance to corrosion. Start with the basics–a chef’s knife (8-inches is standard), a paring knife and a bread knife. With these three you can handle most kitchen tasks with ease.

5 . Oval turkey-serving platter

An oval turkey-serving platter is a stylish presentation for poultry and other large dishes. When selecting one, prioritize a size that accommodates the largest turkey or roast you typically serve. Choose a material that suits your serving style — ceramic for a classic look, stainless steel for modern elegance or glass for versatility. Ensure the platter is sturdy enough to handle the weight of the turkey without bending or warping.

Seasonal splendor

BRIGHTEN YOUR HOME WITH FALL'S BEST BLOOMS.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE RITTERBECK

tThe Studio at Farmer Blue is a floral event and design business rooted in the beauty of a 12-acre sustainable cut-flower farm in Seabrook. Led by artistic director Kim Epley, the studio champions the use of local, seasonal blooms to inspire more eco-conscious floral design. Epley and her team create stunning arrangements with flowers sourced from local growers and primarily with blooms grown on the family farm.

FLORAL OF THE MONTH

If you're looking for a great reference to elevate your designs, Epley highly recommends Flower Color Theory by Putnam & Putnam. “It’s a fantastic guide for creating lush, effortlessly elegant arrangements,” she said.

This month we’re featuring a vibrant arrangement by Epley that beautifully blends local plants and flowers, creating an ideal fall display. As a striking centerpiece on a dining room table, it sets the perfect tone for seasonal gatherings. On a kitchen island it brings warmth and a pop of color to the heart of the home. In the living room it can serve as a captivating focal point on a coffee table or mantel, adding a cozy, inviting feel. For a touch of elegance, place it in the entryway to greet guests with its seasonal charm and welcoming beauty. Recommended reading

Words of wisdom

One of my greatest mentors and favorite floral designers is Noah Sanderson, The Bearded Florist in Charleston. His bold use of bright, vibrant colors continues to inspire me. Whenever I work on a design, I often recall his wisdom on the fundamentals of floral arrangement: "Flowers are like divas, each needing their own spotlight to truly shine. Give them space to thrive without competing with other blooms."

Essential flowers in the arrangement

Sunflower

Aster

Zinnia

Calla lily

Curly willow

Gardenia leaves

Why it works

Pop of color: This arrangement is ideal for October as the leaves change and cooler weather sets in. Sunflowers, abundant from late summer into fall, bring a vibrant pop of warm color that pairs beautifully with seasonal foliage, capturing the essence of autumn. Seasonality: Featuring fresh, locally sourced flowers from South Carolina, this arrangement is perfectly in sync with the season, embracing the golden, earthy tones of fall. It reflects the natural beauty of the region during this time of year.

Balanced elegance: Sunflowers, with their relaxed, casual charm, are quintessentially fall. Paired with the more intricate blooms of zinnias, asters and complementary foliage, the arrangement gains a sophisticated complexity. This blend creates a balanced, refined composition that embodies the season’s warmth and richness.

Design tips

Embrace creativity — there’s no wrong way to design an arrangement, so have fun with it.

Play with varying heights to add visual interest and dimension. Sunflowers have an impressive vase life, so make the most of their longevity by removing or replacing any wilting blooms to keep your arrangement fresh and vibrant longer.

COLORS OF THE MONTH

Neutral harmony

TRANSFORM YOUR LIVING ROOM INTO A SERENE SANCTUARY WITH A PERFECT BLEND OF EARTHY HUES.

When it comes to crafting a living room that feels both inviting and timeless, the combination of Benjamin Moore Brandon Beige (977) and Benjamin Moore White Down (970) is a perfect choice. Brandon Beige, with its subtle green undertone, draws inspiration from nature, grounding your space with an earthy warmth. Paired with the soft, feathery greige undertone of White Down on the ceiling and trim, this palette offers a soothing and versatile foundation. Whether your style is modern, rustic or traditional, this neutral duo provides a blank canvas that effortlessly adapts to any décor.

FOUNDATION COLOR

Brandon Beige (977)

Grounded with a gentle hint of green, this versatile taupe hue captures the essence of natural landscapes, bringing a subtle yet sophisticated connection to the outdoors. Its earthy undertone not only warms up the room but also creates a serene backdrop that evokes the tranquility of nature. Whether you’re aiming for a modern rustic vibe or a cozy, classic ambiance, Brandon Beige serves as the perfect foundation, inviting a sense of calm and timeless elegance into your living space.

Simply White (OC-117)

COORDINATING COLORS

Incorporating coordinating colors

To enhance the serene atmosphere of your living room painted in Brandon Beige with White Down trim, consider incorporating complementary hues through your furniture and accessories. A soft, muted rug in Straw Hat (270) can add a warm, sunny undertone to your floor, while accents in Prescott Green (HC-140), such as throw pillows or a statement chair, bring a refreshing touch of nature indoors. For a cohesive look, incorporate Half Moon Crest (1481) in drapery or artwork, and layer in Simply White (OC-117) for a crisp, clean contrast in decorative pieces or upholstery. Together these colors will create a harmonious and inviting space that you'll love to relax in.

COORDINATING COLORS

CEILING AND TRIM

With the faintest hint of greige, White Down exudes a cozy warmth that envelops your space in a soft, feathery embrace. This delicate undertone adds depth and dimension to the classic white, making it more inviting and versatile for any room. Whether used on walls, ceilings or trim, White Down brings a gentle sophistication that pairs beautifully with both bold and neutral palettes.

Half Moon Crest (1481)

Straw Hat (270)

Prescott Green (HC-140)

White Down (970)

w DIY ideas

FUN, CREATIVE AND EASY PROJECTS THAT WILL TRANSFORM YOUR HOME, INSIDE AND OUT.

Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just someone who occasionally wields a hammer more like a magic wand, there’s nothing like spending a weekend transforming your home. DIY projects don’t just spruce up your space — they allow you to leave a mark that says, "I built this (and it only took five trips to Grayco).” Here are some fun ideas that won’t break the bank, though they may break a few nails (sorry, manicure).

Succulent planters

Succulents are perfect for people who want the joy of plant ownership but prefer their plants to be as lowmaintenance as possible. Why settle for a store-bought planter when you can stick your succulents into anything from an old mug to that one odd box that’s been lurking in your kitchen cabinet? It’s time to get creative — and maybe finally justify why you saved those random knick-knacks.

Accent wall

Floating shelves

Need a spot to show off your favorite plants, books or that weird statue your aunt gave you? Floating shelves are the perfect stylish addition. With just a few brackets, some wooden boards and the patience of a saint, you can create sleek, minimalistic shelves that make it look like you’ve got this DIY thing under control (even if your spirit level disagrees).

Ah, the accent wall. It’s like saying, “Yes, I’m committing to this color... but only on one wall.” You can go bold with a splash of bright paint, or you can play it cool with some peel-and-stick wood planks. Either way, it’s a great way to make a statement without saying, “I’ve painted the entire room neon green, and now I regret it.”

Painted furniture

Before you throw out that old dresser or chair, stop! It still has a few years left in it — with a bit of TLC and a whole lot of paint. Give your furniture a fresh look, then wait for your guests to ask, “Where did you buy that?” Just smile and say, “Oh, this little thing? I painted it myself.” Then bask in the DIY glory.

Tile backsplash

Installing a peel-andstick tile backsplash is an easy, budgetfriendly way to update your kitchen or bathroom. Clean the wall, measure and start applying the tiles from the bottom center, pressing firmly to remove air bubbles. Cut to fit around outlets and corners, and enjoy a sleek, refreshed look without the hassle of traditional tiling.

OUTSIDE INSIDE

Raised garden bed

Gardening doesn’t have to involve back-breaking labor — unless you want it to, of course. Raised garden beds are perfect for planting your veggies, herbs or flowers while keeping everything neatly contained (and possibly away from your dog’s digging habits). Plus you can finally start that Instagram-worthy garden you’ve been dreaming of.

Garden pathway

Put down that shovel, and step into your next project: a garden pathway. With a few stepping stones, bricks or gravel, you can create a charming trail that guides visitors (or just yourself) through your outdoor oasis. And if you mess up the pattern? Just call it “rustic.”

Mirror makeover

Turn that boring bathroom mirror into something worthy of a home-design magazine with a quick DIY frame or some decorative trim. Not only will you get an elegant touch, but you'll have a perfectly good excuse to admire yourself while pretending you’re inspecting your handiwork.

Bottle tree

Add a splash of color and whimsy to your garden with a cobalt-blue bottle tree. This Southern tradition is not only visually stunning but believed to catch evil spirits. Simply collect colorful blue glass bottles, affix them to a sturdy metal frame, and watch your yard become an enchanting display of light and color as the sun hits the glass.

Outdoor string lights

Want to turn your backyard into something out of a fairytale? Hang up some string lights. Instantly, your space transforms into a magical evening retreat that screams Pinterestworthy. Just try not to get tangled up in the process — and remember, untangling lights is excellent cardio. LL

Luxury Custom Home Builders Serving the Carolinas

The art of collecting, lighting, moving and installing art

STORY BY CAROLYN MALES

vVisual art enhances our lives –– at home, in public spaces, business offices, hotels, restaurants, as well as in museums and galleries. We set out to explore four important aspects of art collection: selection, illumination, moving and installation. LL

Maria Hooper: Creating a sense of place

“I’m a firm believer in art that elevates your surroundings,” art consultantcurator and owner of EMROSE projects, Maria Hooper, says as we sit among the artworks she has selected for Coastal Refresh, the Coastal Lighting Studio’s inaugural art exhibition. Indeed, the art that lines the walls of this Bluffton lighting showroom holds standout work, ranging from local painters, photographers, mixed-media and pen-and-ink artists. She and lighting specialist Ron Angner have illuminated each piece, using color temperature, aperture and vibrancy that bring out details, colors and texture.

“I have always been driven by the way spaces make us feel,” the Blufftonbased curator said. “Art has the power to change the way you experience your surroundings. The best art is inherently engaging. I love walking into a hotel lobby that’s exquisitely designed or has art everywhere.”

I have to agree. The choice of paintings, wall hangings, sculpture, ceramics says something about the collector, business or its patrons.

Hooper’s 15 years of experience include working for galleries, the international auction house Phillips and staging corporate branding events for companies like Motorola. That, along with degrees from Vassar (art history), The New School (master’s in media studies) and a certification in creative placemaking from the N.J. Institute of Technology, has sharpened her expertise in creating one-of-akind collections that connect to the history, place and culture of a community.

Humbled Giant | Thomas Flynn II

Marsh in Green | Ann Parker

Today Hooper works with a range of clients: corporate offices, hotels, developers, designers and individual collectors both in the Lowcountry and nationwide. She begins each project with a conversation about art preferences and goals (Do you want to create a high impact? Create an intimate space?).

After developing a vision, she finds artists, craftspeople, installers, printers or other partners to bring that vision to life. One current project, for example, involves designing and fabricating a large wall of ornamental iron- and steel-framed mirrors for a rooftop bar.

Meanwhile she’s preparing an exhibition titled Forests/Facades for the Coastal Lighting Studio gallery. This two-person show of contemporary painting, featuring Keith Crowley and Thomas Flynn II along with local artists, opens from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 10. EMROSEprojects.com

Ron Angner: Bringing out color, texture and detail of your art with custom LED lighting

Lighting specialist Ron Angner and I are standing in his Coastal Lighting Studio showroom gallery in front of Pam White’s mixed-media encaustic painting “Looking Beneath” with its blue, white and gray circles piled upon circles. It’s a stunning piece even under normal lighting, but when Angner taps an app on his cell phone, adjusting the color temperature and vibrancy of the overhead light to the artist’s preference, suddenly the colors pop with a translucent glow, and the circles seem to leap from the canvas.

I turn around and watch another dramatic transformation, this time to a photograph of a Savannah street scene on a rainy night. Again, a few taps on Angner’s phone and voila!, the overhead Lutron monopoint light fixture changes, and the reds, blues and greens of the image grow more vibrant. A brick building turns three-dimensional as if it’s coming out towards us, and the wet street glistens with highlights — just as it would have looked when photographer Corey Gibson snapped it.

At that moment I’m struck by the realization that most artwork, whether in a home, gallery or business, is often lit by ordinary spotlights, overheads, cannisters or lamps that mute or oversaturate the colors, textures, details of wall art, sculptures and, yes, even furnishings and fabric.

“Light isn’t just light anymore,” Angner says. Lighting is not just about basic illumination but using the wellplanned placement of color-and-aperture adjustable lights to transform the mood or ambiance of a room or outdoor area. “Lighting can affect your biorhythms and health as well,” he adds. I think about the restaurants, stores and business offices that beckon you in when the lighting is right, versus the ones that make you feel stressed or want to leave in a hurry when lighting is harsh and unpleasant. Imagine changing the light temperature of a space to warm on a cold, dreary day…

The company’s lighting designer-certified specialist, Christina Gomez, works with architects, builders, interior designers, galleries, stores, businesses and luxury homeowners to figure out their needs, whether it’s creating a new space, making renovations or replacing old incandescent and ballast fixtures with the latest LED smart lighting. On the way out, I take a last look at Lucy Rosen’s “Portrait of a Heron,” a large photograph on fabric. In this lighting I can see every feather in detail. Amazing. coastallightingstudio.com

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Derek Smith: Moving and installing important works of art

Being in the middle of a move myself, I know only too well the stress and uncertainty of handling a delicate piece of artwork. So our big, ornate, ceramic-framed mirror is at the top of my mind as I talk to Derek Smith, owner of Axis Fine Art Installation. “If you’re moving, whether you have one important piece of art or a whole collection, you might have anxiety about that,” he says. “If a sofa is damaged in a move, you know you can always get another one, but with artwork, not so much.”

Axis specializes in moving wall art that often needs special handling, although the company will transport small collections of 3-D works as well. “We come in before the household movers and take the artwork down, pad it, protect it and take it to our storage facility until you’re ready for us to move it back. We carry only the client’s artwork on our truck.”

Then whether you’re awaiting a home renovation, construction or a late move-in date, Axis stores your artwork on elevated racks or blocks in climate-controlled warehouses. While the Riverwalk facility services this area, there are also warehouses in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Atlanta, the headquarters. “Then when you’re settled in and the boxes are unpacked, we’ll bring out your artwork and install it,” he adds.

For installation, Axis often works at the direction of interior designers, gallery owners or the collectors themselves. “But because we get to see all the work of all the best interior designers and gallerists, we know what looks right,” Smith says. “We can help clients decide whether this large piece of art or mirror should go here in the foyer, in the hallway or whether this grouping should go up the stairs or in the dining room.”

He says having a professional art mover and installer is like buying an insurance policy. "If we install it, it’s not going to come crashing down in the middle of the night.” Axisfineart.com

gGet ready for an evening celebrating the artistry of Lowcountry legend Betty Anglin Smith and her triplets — Shannon, Jennifer and Tripp. This talented family shares a deep connection to their surroundings, often weaving the essence of the Lowcountry into their work.

The Red Piano Art Gallery in Bluffton will host an artists' reception for the artistic family from 5-7 p.m. Oct. 25.

Betty has spent the past 40 years living and painting in the Charleston area, where she owns Anglin Smith Fine Art. Her work is deeply rooted in her reverence for and spiritual connection to the natural landscape. Having spent the past decade living along the coastal marshlands and tidal sounds, her focus has been capturing the raw beauty of these elements. Her subjects include meandering waterways, maritime forests, expansive marsh vistas and dramatic skies. Through expressionistic brushwork and bold use of color, she conveys the power, peace and emotion that these scenes evoke. Smith’s work has been featured in galleries across the nation, from New York to San Francisco, and her exhibitions have appeared at the Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston and the Columbia Museum of Art. Her collectors include corporations like Walt Disney World, IBM and Johnson & Johnson.

Generations of creativity

BETTY ANGLIN SMITH AND HER TRIPLETS CAPTURE THE BEAUTY OF THE LOWCOUNTRY THROUGH ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY.

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

SEE THE SHOW

THE SMITHS: A FAMILY ART EXHIBITION

When: 5-7 p.m., Oct. 25 (artists’ reception)

Where: The Red Piano Art Gallery, Bluffton Details: Meet the artists and view their work in this exclusive event. redpianoartgallery.com

Sunny Fields | Betty Anglin Smith

Sturgeon Moon | Tripp Smith

ART THAT ELEVATES

“From Shadows to Radiance” Featured Artist: Millie Gosch

When asked about her children following in her footsteps as artists, Smith called it serendipitous.

“I could have never imagined that the children would become artists also, and that one day we would be sharing a partnership in an art gallery,” she said. “I couldn’t have dreamed anything better. I think the influence was that I always had a home studio and that they had the freedom to watch me paint and to access my painting materials themselves. They were exposed to the art world of painters and museum exhibitions from a young age, and the influence stayed with them.”

The Smith triplets each forged their own creative path. Jennifer Smith Rogers often paints the contrast between buildings and bright skies. Shannon Smith Hughes, also working in oils, focuses on capturing light in her work. Both graduated from Clemson as fine arts majors and actively participate and exhibit with the Oil Painters of America and the American Impressionist Society. Tripp Smith turns his lens to the landscapes of the Lowcountry through photography.

Related reading

THE SMITHS: LOWCOUNTRY FAMILY OF ARTISTS

This art book features over 140 pages of stunning works by all four Smith family members, with a foreword by New York Timesbestselling author Mary Alice Monroe and testimonials from collectors and friends. Purchase a copy at anglinsmith.com

THE ART OF FAMILY Oil painter Betty Anglin Smith is shown with her triplets — Shannon, Tripp and Jennifer. Tripp is a black-and-white photographer. Jennifer and Shannon are oil painters like their mother. Meet all four artists on Oct. 25 at Red Piano Art Gallery in Bluffton.

Though the exhibition won’t have a set theme — the artists plan to present pieces that resonate with them at the moment — there likely will be a lot of local subject matter.

“Tripp has always been into photography,” Betty said. “All of his work focuses on the natural landscape. While I primarily do landscapes, Shannon and Jennifer are more diverse in their painting. Shannon enjoys still life, figurative work and capturing everyday scenes — like chefs, kitchens, or people at bars. Jennifer often paints the old beach architecture of Sullivan's or Edisto, as well as historic downtown homes. She especially loves rooftops, cityscapes and church steeples with red roofs. So it will be a diverse show, but all centered on local themes.” LL

our

October 10th from 3PM until 7PM

Frogmorestew | Shannon Smith Hughes

Maritime Forest | Jennifer Smith Rogers

Creative corners

A journey through Beaufort County’s top art galleries.

a

Artists are the makers who bring creativity to life through their inspired work, and local galleries provide the perfect backdrop to showcase their talents. From Hilton Head Island to Bluffton and Beaufort, the region is home to an impressive array of art galleries that highlight the creative work of local creators alongside fine art from acclaimed national artists. Whether you’re browsing coastal landscapes, fine art photography, intricate sculptures or contemporary masterpieces, these local galleries offer a rich and diverse art experience. LL

BLUFFTON

A cultural treasure

The Red Piano Art Gallery 40 Calhoun St

Established in 1969, The Red Piano Art Gallery has become an iconic presence in the Lowcountry art scene. Founded by Alan and Mary Palmer, it earned the affectionate nickname "piano in the red" due to slow early sales. Nonetheless, the iconic red piano became a central feature of the gallery's gatherings, complete with champagne receptions. Now owned by Ben and Lyn Whiteside, The Red Piano continues to honor its legacy while cementing its status as a Southeast landmark for fine art. Among its distinguished artists is Stephen Scott Young, regarded as a living American master of his generation.c

Stars And Stripes | Stephen Scott Young

Capturing nature's majesty

Ben Ham Gallery 210 Bluffton Road

Ben Ham is a fine art nature photographer whose black-and-white landscapes, captured on film with a classic folding wooden camera, are featured in private, corporate and government collections from Australia to Dubai and Canada to South America. His work also graces the walls of his gallery in Bluffton. Inspired as a teenager by Ansel Adams, Ham is known for his evocative and serene images of the Lowcountry. However, his extensive travels have led him to capture stunning collections from the Rockies, the Southwest, the Pacific Coast and Italy.

An artful treasure

Maye River Gallery 16 Church St.

Founded in 2007 by a collective of 15 local artists, Maye River Gallery has been a cornerstone in Bluffton's art scene. Located in the heart of Old Town, the gallery offers an ever-evolving collection that caters to a wide range of tastes. With a dynamic roster of artists — including collagists, photographers, pastel and acrylic artists and oil painters specializing in landscapes and still-lifes—the gallery ensures a varied selection that reflects a blend of artistic styles and mediums.

Oct 22–Nov 22

Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance

Opening Reception: Wed, Oct 23 • 5-7pm

Enjoy refreshments and meet the artist • Free and open to the public

Gallery Talk: Fri, Nov 1 • 12-1pm

Join the artist on a walk through her work

Hudson’s Docks | Judy Saylor McElynn

High Tide Cathedral | Ben Ham

BLUFFTON

An artistic vision

Go with the flow

Flow Gallery + Workshop

76 Boat House St., Palmetto Bluff

FLOW Gallery + Workshop is a space dedicated to artists from the Palmetto Bluff Artist in Residence program, alongside a curated selection of Southern artists. Situated in the heart of Wilson Village, the gallery presents a range of art forms, from sweetgrass weaving and oil painting to cake artistry. Designed to inspire curiosity and deepen appreciation for the arts, FLOW Gallery + Workshop offers a fun and engaging environment where visitors can explore and connect with creativity.

Rooted in creativity

Pluff Mudd Art 27 Calhoun St.

Founded in April 2002 under the name “A Guild of Bluffton Artists,” Pluff Mudd Art began as a cooperative gallery with a mission to support and promote local artists in Old Town. After four successful years in its original location, the gallery expanded across the street and rebranded as Pluff Mudd Art. Since its relocation, the gallery has thrived. Today, Pluff Mudd Art showcases the work of 20 artists.

Four Corners Gallery 1263 May River Road

In 1989, Charlene Gardner established Four Corners Framing with a dedication to offering top-notch, custom framing services for designers and galleries in the Bluffton area. As Bluffton evolved into an art destination, Charlene recognized an opportunity to expand her vision and broaden her offerings. Today, Four Corners Gallery features a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, photography, and pottery by local artists and creators from the surrounding region.

Bluffton’s artistic soul

SOBA Art Gallery 6 Church St.

The Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA), founded by seven local artists in the spring of 1994, emerged during a time when Bluffton was known as a slow-paced art and fishing village. Since then, this nonprofit has grown to more than 100 members. SOBA's mission is to create a nurturing environment for local artists to develop their skills and explore their creativity. The SOBA Art Gallery, showcasing works from over 100 artists, is a space where all art is locally created. With fresh exhibits unveiled each month, the gallery is always alive with new and original works.

Small space, big talent

La Petite Gallerie 56 Calhoun St.

Housed in a historic building on Calhoun Street in Old Town, La Petite Gallerie is a celebration of local talent, with a focus on painting, pencil art and sculpture. The gallery showcases the work of regional artists, offering an ever-expanding collection. Featuring five painters and a sculptor, La Petite Gallerie presents an array of art, with many pieces extending into the adjacent garden. You might catch an artist at work on the shady garden deck.

Red Butts / Donna Rains

Quiet Action / Vickie Jourdan

Choppy Day / Murray Sease

May River Chapel / Chris Martin

May River Moon / Jim Lewis

Located in Palmetto Bluff with views of the May River, our award-winning gallery features a diverse collection of more than 25 artists and celebrated Southern creators.

FLOW Gallery + Workshop is a cornerstone of Palmetto Bluff’s Artist in Residence program, featuring talented artists who create and educate through hands-on workshops. Both the gallery and the program are open to the public, offering a chance to engage with the Bluff’s vibrant artistic community.

UPCOMING Workshops & Events

OPEN: TUESDAY - SUNDAY | 10AM TO 6PM 76 Boat House Street Bluffton, SC flowpalmettobluff.com • 843.706.5483

HILTON HEAD ISLAND

Framing the Lowcountry

Camellia Art Gallery

1 Office Way, Hilton Head; 45 Calhoun St., Bluffton

Founded in 1986 by Adrianne Lively, Camellia Art began as a small frame shop featuring local folk art. Over the years, it has evolved into an art gallery and custom framing studio, with locations on Hilton Head Island’s south end, within J. Banks Retail Showroom on Main Street and on Calhoun Street in Bluffton. Originally showcasing the work of just eight local artists, Camellia Art now represents over 30 artists.

Island inspirations

Art League of Hilton Head Gallery 14 Shelter Cove Lane

Founded in 1972 by Walter Greer, the Art League of Hilton Head is a nonprofit dedicated to visual arts. It offers a platform for artists at all stages of their careers to exhibit their work, inspire the community and gain insights from experienced art educators. Located mid-island within the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, the Art League Gallery features a diverse array of local artwork in various media, created by over 200 member artists. The gallery's exhibits change monthly, and all pieces are available for purchase. It is open seven days a week and 90 minutes before any Arts Center performance.

Art on the edge Endangered Arts

South Island Square

Clay and Julie Roberts created Endangered Arts in 1994 with the hope of exhibiting a diverse selection of fine art. The name Endangered Arts is a double entendre: the pieces are limited in quantity, “in danger of selling out,” and many of them highlight endangered species. The gallery showcases a wide variety of media, including bronze sculptures, glass pieces and limited edition and original artwork.

Miles and Miles | Marc Hanson

Apex in Blue | Art Cornell

A Peaceful Path | Phillip Anthony

Choose the Best Type of Light for Your Art

Older light bulbs have higher UV output than contemporary LED bulbs. Lutron’s Ketra integrated LEDs emit zero UV and have a long lifespan, making them a safe and convenient option for lighting art. Halogen bulbs, while good for casting cool tones, produce higher levels of heat and UV rays. If using a halogen bulb, the fixture will require a UV-filtering lens in order to conserve the artwork. Older incandescent bulbs should be avoided altogether. They’re bad for the environment, produce a lot of heat, and damage art more severely.

“Light is a fundamental element in design, influencing the atmosphere, aesthetics, and how people feel and live in a space.” You pick art that speaks to you. Why not choose lighting that lets it speak clearly?”

Lutron’s Ketra Integrated LED

BEAUFORT

Where creativity shines

Thibault Gallery 815 Bay St.

Beaufort natives Mary and Eric Thibault founded their gallery in 2014 with a vision to create a space dedicated to both artistic creation and supporting fellow artists. Today, the gallery represents 11 local artists, showcasing a range of artistic expressions. From intricately hand-painted wine glasses and giclée prints to photography, the gallery offers something to captivate every visitor.

Art and tradition

The Rhett Gallery 901 Bay St. Billy and Nancy Rhett opened their Bay Street gallery in 1989, quickly capturing the interest of Beaufort locals with their diverse offerings. The gallery features a collection of family paintings, wood carvings and antique maps and historical prints. Nancy specializes in watercolor, Billy excels in oil paintings and wood carvings, their son William creates acrylic and watercolor pieces and their daughter-in-law Jamie is a photographer.

Fine art with soul I. Pinckney Simons Gallery 711 Bay St.

This gallery earned the title of “Best Art Gallery” in the Guide to South Carolina’s “Best of South Carolina 2024” list earlier this year. For over 40 years, this family-owned and operated gallery has showcases contemporary artists from the region, with a special emphasis on capturing the beauty and essence of the Lowcountry. In addition to featuring original paintings, the gallery also offers a selection of sculptures, custom framing, and art jewelry.

Beacon of White | Josh Lambert

Radiance | Neil Walling

Far Horizon | Nancy Ricker Rhett

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Whitaker Gannon: The fine art of storytelling on stage

Theater has a unique opportunity to help us connect not only with our own experience, but to empathize with others.

iSTORY BY CAROLYN MALES

In 2009 a 10-year-old Whitaker Gannon climbed atop the barricades in the musical Les Misérables at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. She’d chopped off her long hair to play Gavroche, a streetwise urchin who had joined a ragtag group of rebels railing against the injustices of King Louis-Philippe in 1830s Paris. Then as Gavroche is defying fate by collecting ammunition from the bodies of the slain National Guardsmen and singing defiantly ‘’we won’t give up,” he is shot and killed. It was a dramatic moment that had stuck in my mind, and I’d caught other glimpses of Gannon in Arts Center shows like The Who’s Tommy and Hairspray. When she made her directorial debut at the Arts Center in 2022 with The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night, a play about an autistic British teenager accused of killing his neighbor’s dog, she proved a master of stagecraft and storytelling. This coming season the now 27-year-old will direct the center’s season opener, the comedy farce Something Rotten. Then in May she’ll direct Pegger Trecker White as Maria Callas in Lean Ensemble Theater’s production of the Tony-award winning Master Class. In the meantime, Gannon continues as Lean’s Director of Community and Arts Engagement, developing local initiatives like Lean Unbound, a theater education and outreach program where participants explore the possibilities of storytelling.

[LOCAL Life] What was it like making your big stage debut at age 10?

[Whittaker Gannon] Les Miz was the show that made me passionate about theater. It gave me the opportunity to work with actors who had resumes longer than I’d been alive. I had auditioned for a girl’s role but was cast as Gavroche, a boy. I did five other shows there — South Pacific, The Who’s Tommy (as the 10-yearold Tommy), Anything Goes, 42nd Street, and Hairspray. They all challenged me in different ways. And I had to balance schoolwork with late nights at the theater. Later I went to Wake Forest University, where I majored in communications and minored in visual arts.

[LL] You weren’t a theater major?

[WG] I took a theater course for fun during my London semester, where we would read a play each week and then go see it. So I was experiencing theater in different places, different environments, different styles. I discovered how theater could impact an audience on so many levels.

[LL] Did this experience influence you to direct?

[WG] There was one show, Us/ Them, about two kids who survive the 2004 Beslan [Russia] school hostage crisis that I saw there and couldn’t get out of my mind. It delivered a powerful message about how we talk about traumatic events with children, how we try to shield them and how much more observant of the world around them they are than we give them credit for. Just because children process trauma in a different way doesn’t mean they’re not understanding it. So when I went back to Wake Forest and told one of my theater professors someone should do it there, she said, “You do it!” I took her directing class, applied and was selected to do the annual student production, and I’ve been directing ever since.

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[LL] Us/Them is interesting because it has some humorous moments in what was a real-life terrifying situation.

[WG] There’s a moment in the play when bombs are going off, the theme from Mission Impossible is playing and you get caught up in the laughter. Humor at its core is about tension and release. Using it as a coping mechanism in a heartbreaking moment is shocking in a way that’s impactful but also effective, giving the audience a breath while dealing with an intense topic.

[LL] How do you see the difference between acting and directing?

[WG] As a performer, you have a very specialized vision of what you’re focusing on and what you contribute, but as the director, it’s much more of a puzzle. I can still be passionate and do deep dives into who these characters are, but I’m also focused on seeing the big picture –– the events and what’s important in the storytelling and on the impact beyond a moment of entertainment, that we’re working to achieve.

[LL] I’m always in awe of the grand collaborative effort it take to create great theater.

[WG] It’s exciting to see how all these creative individual minds come together in a production and figure out how I can help translate different ideas to ensure that we’re all telling the same story. When you get to tech week, and all the creative elements of the show — acting, sound, light, sets, props, costumes –– come together, it’s magical.

[LL] I How did your visual arts background influence the staging of the murder mystery/comedy Clue and The Curious Incident of the Dog In the Night?

[WG] Sculpture along with installation art were two of my favorite art forms when I was at Wake, and that has translated into my thinking of the human body as a form of three-dimensional art and how bodies can interact to make a composition in space. Just a slight shift in the way characters carry themselves can change their whole persona. When you get into the more choreographed moments and get them to come together as one, it’s exciting.

[LL] I was intrigued by the way you used lights and shadows and sound in those shows to create mood and punctuate action.

[WG] From a sensory point of view, light is important in directing focus. In movies, directors have more control over what they get people to pay attention to. If you want them to zoom in on one moment, viewers have no choice but to look at what the camera is focusing on. But with stage there’s this large expanse where the audience can be looking at any part of that at any time. So, as director, you and the lighting designer must figure out how you can get playgoers to pivot their focus in a particular moment. For example, a punchline can be sold with a sharp shift of lights or a sound cue. Clue, which combines farce with murder mystery, pokes fun at the genre. So sometimes when we wanted to accentuate or lean into some of the cheesier moments, we would do a quick light cue along with a melodramatic sound and a visual of actors in a quirky posture.

[LL] In your role as Lean’s Director of Community and Arts Engagement, you’ve spoken of theater as a catalyst for change.

[WG] Theater has a unique opportunity to help us connect not only with our own experience but to empathize with others. In a world where we’re often isolated in our own bubbles, we get to sit back and receive something without other distractions. Theater makers have unique opportunities to start dialogues around a subject that may often be ignored. Theater can create a shift in the ways we think and let us see the world through someone else’s eyes.

[LL] Where do you see yourself in five years?

[WG] I’d like to experiment with more interactive or immersive theater, blurring the line between audience and performer. It transforms the audience into active participants, and they become co-creators in the narrative. LL

Is it Art, or Craft?

Sticking magazine clips to a board with a hot glue gun, stitching bits of cloth, squishing clay whirling on a wheel. Collaging, decoupaging, foraging for popsicle sticks, odd cartons, loose string.

Dream-making The Arabian Nights inside the perfect shoebox, where paper scorpions lurk behind rice cracker box doors, under reused carpet scraps, foil moon above.

One project transforms a room. Has the hobby become art? Craft room, art studio? Not a quilt-maker, but fabric artist cross-stitching a forest, tree leaves in French knots.

The collector walks a visionary wire toward hoarding sees infinite potential in trash, the inherent beauty in the grainy paper of an avocado basket, Christmas in a box of old buttons and snips of colored paper.

Art with function, crafting a masterpiece.

— The Pop-up Poets of Hilton Head

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Poetry trail site map

The Pop-up Poets are locals who meet weekly to share and sometimes write poetry together. Their first poem is on display at LOCAL Life headquarters (800 Main Street), stop No. 22 on the Hilton Head Poetry Trail. This unique experience combines technology, creative writing, public art and community spirit, offering a fresh perspective on Hilton Head Island through the voices of 24 local poets. To discover the full trail and see the island through their eyes, scan this QR code to access the site map.

Industrial Chic #1 by Caroll Williams

Cradle in creativity

WHIMSICAL PATTERNS AND SOUTHERN CHARM MEET IN A SUPER TRENDY LOCAL BABY BRAND.

STORY BY LOLA JARZEMSKY

sSaltwater Swaddles, born in Charleston, beautifully captures the spirit of Lowcountry heritage in the coziest way possible. Merging Southern charm with playful watercolor patterns and cloud-like fabrics, the brand’s collection of children's swaddles, sheets, clothing and pajamas is designed with both comfort and style in mind.

Co-founders Charlotte Fraser and Meredith Darr first crossed paths at Clemson University, bonding over a shared love for art and design. Years later, as both were expecting baby boys, the idea for another “baby” was born — Saltwater Swaddles. Charlotte, whose family has a long history on Hilton Head Island, drew on her deep roots and artistic flair to create the brand’s whimsical watercolor paintings, while Meredith expertly transformed them into vibrant patterns that now grace their products. As Charlotte notes, “The evolution of our brand reflects the growth of our kids.” What began as a line of swaddles quickly blossomed to include children’s pajamas — and even matching sets for adults.

Charlotte’s transition from a refined artist to a successful businesswoman serves as an inspiration for local creatives looking to launch their own ventures. By infusing artistic charm into every product, the brand has found a niche where quality, comfort and local

Gamecock snuggles: Get your little one game-day ready with this spirited Gamecock swaddle. Wrapped in garnet, black and white, your baby will stay snug and cozy while showing off some serious team pride. Perfect for football season or anytime your family is feeling that school spirit, this swaddle brings comfort with a sporty twist. $38.

Lowcountry inspired: Charlotte Fraser works on a Saltwater Swaddles creation in her Charleston studio. She was born and raised on Hilton Head Island.

Duck, duck, pajamas: Get ready for a slumber party in style with these fun, nature-inspired pajamas. Featuring prints of diving ducks, pheasants and quail, these PJs are perfect for cozying up at bedtime or for giggling with cousins during a sleepover. With sizes ranging from 6 months to 8 years, they’re sure to keep everyone comfy and cute all night long. $46.

Pointer PJs: Twinning is winning, and these German Shorthaired Pointer pajamas are here to prove it. Featuring an adorable dog design, these cozy PJs are sure to capture the hearts of your little ones, who will love snuggling up, playing fetch with their imagination or simply showing off their love for pups. Sizes range from 6 months to 8 years. $46.

craftsmanship take center stage. Customers not only invest in beautifully made items but also support a homegrown artisan, making each purchase feel that much more meaningful.

In the early days, Saltwater Swaddles thrived on creativity and a dash of optimism. For Charlotte and Meredith the business offered a creative outlet that allowed them to craft products that benefited their own children as well as those in the community. This personal connection quickly sparked a loyal customer base, which has been instrumental in the brand’s growth and continued success.

Each pattern tells a story, drawing on meaningful aspects of Lowcountry life. Charlotte, inspired by her Hilton Head roots, finds her greatest inspiration in the natural beauty of the region. Her designs — whether they feature diving ducks, seashells or colorful crabs — reflect the vibrant environment that shaped her upbringing. “I was lucky to grow up on Hilton Head,” Charlotte said. “My family has always been tied to this island, and my parents encouraged me to appreciate the outdoors, which isn’t hard to do in the Lowcountry.” LL

t

Made in the Lowcountry A

SHOWCASE OF UNIQUE ARTISAN CREATIONS FROM LOCAL MAKERS.

The Lowcountry boasts a thriving community of artisans who draw inspiration from the region's natural beauty, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern artistry. From hand-thrown pottery to intricate jewelry, these makers craft unique pieces that reflect the charm of the area and their individual talents. Here's a closer look at some of the creators bringing their one-of-a-kind work to life.

Shattuck Clockworks

Product: Custom hand-crafted clocks and tide clocks

Where it's made: Hilton Head Island

What makes it great: Blake Shattuck’s clocks combine artistry with functionality, crafted entirely by hand with traditional tools. Each clock is a commissioned piece, making it personal and meaningful to every customer. Blake has been passionate about creating since childhood, starting with whittling and later honing his wood carving skills with chisels from his grandfather. During the pandemic, Blake found himself unemployed and turned his hobby into a full-time pursuit, now exhibiting at Pluff Mudd Art Gallery.

Where to find it: Visit Shattuck Clockworks at Pluff Mudd Art Gallery in Old Town Bluffton or online at ShattuckClockworks.com.

Clay on the May

Product: Handmade polymer clay earrings

Where it's made: Abby Doyle crafts each piece from her dorm at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, infusing her love for Bluffton’s May River into her designs. What makes it great: Founded in 2023, Clay on the May started as a hobby with a basic Amazon kit. Abby creates trendy, lightweight earrings with whimsical designs, perfect for comfortable, all-day wear. She also uses custom 3D-printed clay cutters, bringing customers’ unique visions to life. Originally from Virginia, Abby’s frequent visits to Hilton Head inspired her to major in Hospitality Resort and Tourism Management. She’s found Clay on the May to be the ideal way to connect with the local community, recently raising funds for the Hilton Head Island Sea Turtle Patrol through earring sales.

Where to find it: Check out her jewelry at Jarvis Creek General Store & Southern Kitchen or the Hilton Head Oyster Festival on November 9. For custom orders, follow her on Instagram (@clay.onthemay).

Finch Sign and Design Metalworks

Product: Custom aluminum art

Where it's made: Hilton Head Island

What makes it great: Charlie Finch and Pamela Chanay’s custom metal art combines CNC plasma cutting with handfinishing, creating durable and intricate Lowcountry-themed pieces. Charlie and Pamela elevate traditional metalworking with their precision and creativity. Where to find it: Instagram (@finchsignanddesignmetalworks)

Wendala’s Lowcountry Sugar Scrub

Product: Hand, foot and body scrubs, all-in-one shave scrubs and lip scrubs

Where it's made: Bluffton

What makes it great: Wendala’s Lowcountry Sugar Scrubs are crafted with natural ingredients, offering a luxurious self-care experience. Infused with essential oils and fragrances, each scrub leaves the skin soft and refreshed. Wendy Kushel, a former stand-up comedian and actress, started making sugar scrubs for friends before launching her business in 2020. Her products now include around 30 SKUs, all inspired by her motto, “Live. Laugh. Scrub.”

Where to find it: Wendala’s scrubs can be found at the Hilton Head Farmers Market, at many local shops and online at wendalas.com.

Little Red Hen

Product: Eco-friendly food wraps

Where it's made: In Sarah Thomsen’s outdoor studio in Bloomingdale, Georgia.

What makes it great: Made from beeswax and upcycled cloths, these eco-friendly food wraps are designed to reduce environmental impact. Each wrap is reusable, easy to clean, and perfect for storing everything from bread to casseroles. Originally from the UK, Sarah has been a Lowcountry local for 15 years. She began making wraps as sustainable gifts for Earth Day and officially launched Little Red Hen in 2022. Where to find it: Hilton Head Farmers Market and at littleredhenwraps.com.

Calilou Clay

Product: Modern lightweight polymer clay jewelry and accessories

Where it's made: Bluffton, at Denise Palmer’s in-home studio

What makes it great: Named after her two dogs, Cali and Louie, Denise’s one-of-a-kind jewelry incorporates local materials like Hilton Head sand. She mixes polymer clay with elements like leather and rattan, creating pieces that are both lightweight and distinctive. Originally from Philadelphia, Denise moved to the Lowcountry in 2017 and found renewed inspiration in polymer clay. Where to find it: Hilton Head Community Market and on Instagram (@calilouclay).

©WENDALA’S SUGAR SCRUBS

©CALILOU CLAY

©SERGIO APARICIO

makers

Deb Staub Designs

Product: Unique stoneware

Where it's made: Saint Helena Island

What makes it great: Deb Staub’s handmade stoneware showcases the natural beauty of clay through unique textures and glazes, all while fostering an appreciation for the Lowcountry’s ecosystem.

A retired teacher and Master Naturalist, Staub draws inspiration from nature, incorporating the region’s landscapes into her clay, metal and glass works. Where to find it: debstaubdesigns.com

Helen Tavern Designs

Product: Chainmaille jewelry

Where it's made: Originally crafted in Bluffton and now in New Jersey

What makes it great: Each piece of chainmaille jewelry is hand-woven from hundreds of rings, creating intricate patterns and a beautiful finish. Helen, inspired by her father’s engineering background, has been making chainmaille jewelry for over 15 years, finding joy in the process of metal manipulation. Where to find it: Maye River Gallery in Bluffton or helentaverndesigns.com.

©LISA STAFF

Beachside Wood Art

Product: Cedar wood coastal wall art

Where it's made: Hilton Head Island

What makes it great: Each piece is crafted from select cedar wood, enhanced with hand-rubbed teak oil and finished with multiple coats of spar urethane for protection and a lasting shine. Peter Brunn is passionate about showcasing the natural beauty of wood in his coastal-themed creations. Where to find it: beachsidewoodart.com

Aloha K Designs

Product: Reclaimed surfboard art

Where it's made: Bluffton

What makes it great: Kate and Dan Brown transform damaged surfboards into vibrant, one-of-a-kind works of art that celebrate coastal culture and sustainability. They turn vintage surfboards into stunning statement pieces, adding a creative twist to surf culture.

Where to find it: Instagram (@alohakdesigns)

Fishsticks Coastal Crafts

Product: Coastal-inspired home decor

Where it's made: Bluffton

What makes it great: Each piece is handcrafted from natural and reclaimed materials, capturing the uniqueness of the Lowcountry in every design. Amy Starnes creates coastal decor that reflects the beauty of her surroundings.

Where to find it: fishstickscoastal.com or Hilton Head Community Market.

These Two Hands

Product: Handmade silver, leather, fiber and paper goods

Where it's made: Patte Ranney crafts each piece at her home studio on Hilton Head Island's South Beach.

What makes it great: Patte is known for her meticulous craftsmanship, attention to detail and original designs. Each piece is either a one-of-a-kind creation or part of a small batch, reflecting her passion for quality and functionality. A Hilton Head resident since 1978, Patte pursued a career with Outside Brands while making art in her free time. Now a full-time artisan, she finds inspiration in southwestern designs, often spending time at Ghost Ranch in New Mexico to refine her skills.

Where to find it: Shop her work at Hilton Head Community Market, Hilton Head Farmer’s Market, and on Instagram (@TheseTwoHandsStudio).

©THESE TWO HANDS

PillowSak

Product: Travel pillow covers

Where it's made: Springfield, Georgia

What makes it great: PillowSak is a travel-friendly pillow cover with adjustable straps, suitcase sleeves, and cord locks, ensuring your pillow stays clean and protected during travel. Debby McIncrow created PillowSak after struggling to keep her pillow clean while traveling. Her innovative product now offers a stylish and practical solution for travelers.

Where to find it: pillowsak.com or Hilton Head Farmers Market.

MW3 Woodworks

Product: Handcrafted wood culinary items

Where it's made: Bluffton

What makes it great: MW3 Woodworks specializes in handcrafted cutting and charcuterie boards, using sustainably sourced wood and food-grade finishes. Mike Walsh’s love for woodworking and cooking inspired him to create culinary boards that are functional and beautiful. Where to find it: Instagram (@mw3_ woodworks) or mw3woodworks.com.

The Junk Bug

Product: Oyster shell art

Where it's made: Hilton Head Island

What makes it great: Each oyster shell is sealed and preserved before being transformed into art, maintaining the natural beauty of the shells while enhancing their durability. Stephanie Vojnovic began her art business after moving to Hilton Head and has since balanced creating unique pieces with the joys of motherhood.

Where to find it: Hilton Head Farmers Market, Hilton Head Community Market and Instagram (@thejunkbug).

Two Bay Horses

Product: Southwestern-inspired jewelry

Where it's made: Sea Pines

Kara Artman Art

Product: Reconsidered trifles

Where it's made: Mid-island on Hilton Head

What makes it great: Kara Artman creates porcelain replicas of ancient bottles found along Lowcountry shores, turning them into food-safe art pieces that tell the story of the past. Kara draws inspiration from debris and forgotten objects, transforming them into meaningful art that connects with the region’s history. Where to find it: karaartman.com or Hilton Head Community Market.

What makes it great: Named after the horses that have influenced her life, Megan Taylor creates unique, limited-edition pieces with a personal touch. Megan’s lifelong love of horses and jewelry culminates in her handcrafted designs that reflect her passion for both. Where to find it: twobayhorsesdesigns.com.

Customer satisfaction i s our top priority.At Old Tow n Floor ing,we recogniz e that a oorcan serve as the focal point ofany room enhancing the look and feelofan entirespace. at i s why producing ourow n oors and sourcing thebest suppliers ofthemost luxuriou s materialhas been ourgoal. We provide qualit y hardwood ooring,vinyl plank ooring andinnovative oor ing solutions with remarkable designs for ever y application!

Hidden Treasure!

Join the owners of Wild Birds Unlimited Hilton Head for every aspect of backyard birding. From equipment and outings, to solutions and resources.

Northern Parulas primarily eat insects, so try offering mealworms (live or dried) or suet mixed with insects. You can also try specialty suet cakes made with insect blends to appeal to their diet.

Parulas are attracted to fresh water, so setting up a birdbath with a dripper, mister, or small fountain can encourage them to visit. Moving water is particularly appealing.

Hilton Head Soap Co.

Product: Handmade soaps

Where it's made: Hilton Head Island

What makes it great: Each soap evokes memories of iconic Hilton Head locations, with sustainable, responsibly sourced ingredients ensuring luxurious self-care. Jonathan Suhre blends his love for Hilton Head with his knowledge of scent, creating soaps that capture the essence of the island. Where to find it: hiltonheadsoap.com

Jolly Pig Pottery

Product: Functional stoneware pottery

Where it's made: Seabrook

What makes it great: Jolly Pig Pottery’s functional stoneware is oven, microwave and dishwasher safe, with unique textures and glazes adding creative flair. Traci Walter blends her background in painting and pottery to create beautiful, functional pieces inspired by the Lowcountry’s natural beauty.

Where to find it: Jolly Pig Pottery on Facebook, Instagram (@JollyPigPottery), Wimbee Creek Farm and the Beaufort Art Association Gallery.

Northern Parula

HK Steel Art

Product: Hand-cut plasma steel art

Where it's made: Hardeeville

What makes it great: Each piece of steel art is hand-drawn and hand-cut by Hailey King, finished with a clear coat for durability and a custom touch. King learned plasma cutting and welding from her father and has been crafting beautiful steel art since 2017, inspired by the Lowcountry’s natural beauty.

Where to find it: Bluffton General Store, Grayco (Lady’s Island), hksteelart.com

Banana Stitches Co.

Product: Handmade crochet plush toys

Whereit's made: Bluffton

What makes it great: Banana Stitches Co. offers whimsical, hand-crocheted plush toys, from crocodiles to toast, that are perfect as gifts or collectibles. Anna Jane, who learned to crochet from her grandmother, creates plushies with unique, playful designs that add a dose of cuteness to everyday life.

Where to find it: Jarvis Creek General Store, Hilton Head Farmers Market, Hilton Head Community Market, bananastitchesco.com. LL

Adopt a little magic

THE CASE FOR BLACK CATS

STORY BY SHEILA PAZ + PHOTOS BY KATIE BRADHAM

a

As the nights grow longer and Halloween approaches, black cats emerge as iconic symbols of the season — graceful, mysterious and often misunderstood. For generations these sleek and loving felines have been unfairly linked to superstitions; yet beneath their sleek exterior lies a gentle and affectionate nature that’s frequently overlooked. This fall, as you get into the spooky spirit, consider adopting one of these enigmatic creatures, and help them rewrite their story of bad luck into one of good fortune and companionship.

Turning superstition on its head

For centuries black cats have been associated with superstition, often feared as omens of bad luck or even witchcraft. Yet if you dig deeper into history, you’ll find that black cats have been revered in many cultures as symbols of good fortune and prosperity. In Japan a black cat is considered a sign of a happy and successful marriage; while in England sailors once believed black cats brought safe voyages. Even ancient Egyptians worshipped black cats, believing they had protective powers. So rather than fearing a black cat crossing your path this Halloween, see it as a sign of good things to come.

Jaden

At 5, Jaden still plays like a kitten. Despite being surrendered to Hilton Head Humane, his positive, snuggly nature remains intact, and he’s eager to bring warmth to your life.

Hidden genetic benefits

Beyond their beauty, black cats possess unique genetic traits. Their dark coats are the result of melanism, a genetic mutation that has been linked to potential health benefits, such as enhanced resistance to disease. According to studies conducted by the National Cancer Institute and the University of Maryland, black cats may exhibit a stronger immunity to certain diseases like feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), which mirrors some aspects of human diseases, offering fascinating insights for medical research. Owning one of these cats could mean welcoming not only an affectionate companion but also one with strong, hardy genes.

Clockwork A playful 3-month-old kitten with a boundless energy for fun and purring, Clockwork will bring endless joy to any household. Meet him at Hilton Head Humane.

Bacopa Rescued from the ocean, Bacopa’s adventurous spirit still thrives. Now a thriving 3-month-old kitten at Hilton Head Humane, she’s ready to bring her love of exploration into your home.

We have been proudly serving Hilton Head and Blu ton since 2007. Whether you have Travertine, Marble, Limestone or Ceramic Tile with dirty grout lines, we would welcome the opportunity to serve you. Call us anytime to schedule your free estimate.

“My husband and I own a home with a very richly detailed onyx countertop in the kitchen. Over the years the countertop had become etched by numerous spills. We searched carefully for people who could restore the counter to its original beauty. After much deliberation, we chose Sir Grout to do the work. The result is simply beautiful.”

— Maureen D.,Blu ton, SC

pets

Popular breeds for adoption

Black cats are often admired for their mystique, but they vary widely in personality. Here are some popular breeds to consider:

Bombay: Often called the "minipanther" for their sleek, shiny coats and piercing copper eyes, Bombays are playful and loving. They are known to form deep bonds with one owner, shadowing them from room to room.

American shorthair: This easygoing breed is a hit with families. Black American shorthairs are not only affectionate but are also known for their sturdy health, making them an excellent choice for a low-maintenance, lovable pet.

Maine coon: The gentle giant of the cat world, black Maine coons are large, fluffy and have dog-like personalities. They are sociable, loyal and adore playing, especially with children.

Domestic shorthair: Often found in shelters, domestic shorthairs come in all shapes and sizes. Black cats of this type are known for their adaptable nature and wide range of personalities, making them ideal for households of all kinds.

Mixed breeds: Many black cats are of mixed heritage. These cats often carry traits from various breeds, giving them distinctive personalities that make them oneof-a-kind companions.

ADORABLE & ADOPTABLE

Shelters across the Lowcountry are brimming with black cats in need of loving homes. Here are a few more available for adoption at Hilton Head Humane:

A 2-year-old stray found on Hilton Head

a lover-boy who adores human companionship and treats. He’s waiting to charm his way into your heart — and maybe sneak an extra treat or two.

Sandpiper This reserved 8-year-old might be shy at first, but once you’ve earned his trust, he’ll be your most loyal companion, always ready for a back scratch or a game of hide and seek.

Maluka Sun-loving and affectionate, 3-month-old Maluka spends her days soaking up rays and nights cuddling up for warmth, making her the perfect blend of playful and cozy.

Jarvis

Island, Jarvis is

Wilder This 2-month-old tuxedo kitten has soft fur and emerald-green eyes that captivate everyone who meets him. Wilder is a bundle of energy and the perfect playful companion for any cat lover.

Northern parula FREQUENT FLYER

EXPLORING THE HIDDEN LIFE OF

A

MOSS-LOVING SONGBIRD

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

iFemale parulas do most of the nest building, hollowing out a mass of vegetation to create a side entrance and a cozy cup lined with additional moss, hair, fine grasses or pine needles.

Interestingly, northern parulas have developed a peculiar break in their breeding range, likely due to their moss obsession. They breed from Florida to Canada's boreal forests but skip over parts of the Midwest and Northeast, possibly because of habitat loss and air pollution that affect the growth of the mosses they rely on for nesting. If you want to attract these picky birds to your yard, consider planting live oak, black gum or bald cypress trees, which are most likely to host Spanish moss on the island. LL

Where to find them

LISTEN UP

Scan this QR code to hear the call of the northern parula.

If you peer closely into the Spanish moss draped high in the treetops, you might spot a particularly striking warbler with a bluish-gray body and vibrant yellow highlights. The northern parula, with its bright white eye crescents, chestnut breast bands and yellowgreen back patch, is a colorful little songbird that brings a splash of life to the Lowcountry. But calling it a "songbird" might be a bit generous — rather than melodious tunes, it hops from branch to branch, emitting a rising, buzzy trill that pinches off at the end.

These birds are frequent visitors to the Lowcountry, thanks to their love for epiphytes like Spanish moss, beard moss and lace lichen. The abundance of these mossy hideaways keeps them here longer than in most southern regions. Fluttering at the edges of branches, northern parulas pluck insects and spiders from their favorite mossy hangouts, almost obsessively.

Northern parulas are closely associated with mosses and lichens, which they use not only as hunting grounds but also as nesting material. Their nests are typically hidden in hanging clumps of Spanish moss, high up in the trees — sometimes as high as 100 feet — making them elusive and difficult to observe.

The key to spotting a northern parula is to look in forests draped with long, wispy plants like Spanish moss. During the breeding season, these birds tend to stick to the canopy, so you’ll need to spend some time looking up. Luckily, during migration, they forage lower in the forest and sing often; just listen for their distinctive buzzy trill.

“I find them at Jarvis Creek Park during the migration season (spring and fall). In my experience, the early migrants are often high up in the trees, feeding at the ends of branches. They can be hard to see. As migration progresses, the later ones are easier to find and usually lower. Most of my photos of them are from August, September and October.”

– Local birder, Alan Biggs

“You will find northern parulas in the lower to medium canopy in spruce and fir trees. Their name comes from the Latin word ‘parulus,’ meaning ‘little bird.’ Northern parulas are in our area for about eight months, so you have a great chance of easily finding one in Jarvis Creek Park, Audubon Newhall or just about anywhere. They are even in my parking lot in Shipyard!”

– Local birder, Mary Alice Tartler

TARTLER Essentials

ALICE

© MARY

Get everything you need for your backyard birding at Wild Birds Unlimited at the Festival Centre at Indigo Park on Hilton Head Island.

FOOD & ACCESSORIES

• Mealworms

• Bark Butter

• Nuts & Berries Suet

• Sunflower Chips

• Tail Prop Suet Feeder

©ALAN BIGGS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA

STAFF

STYLED BY BAILEY GILLIAM

STREET STYLE

Diana McDougall

LOWCOUNTRY REGIONAL PRESIDENT AT COASTAL STATES BANK

Local since: 1998

What are you wearing? Maggie & Me

How would you describe your style? Casual conservative. Favorite type of art:

Anything with waterways.

Artistic flare

With bold patterns, vibrant colors, unconventional silhouettes and unique textures, looks from local stores and boutiques celebrate the fusion of fashion and artistry

these curated

Available at Palmettoes

Available at The Back Door

Available at Evelyn & Arthur

HIT THE TRAIL

The Shelter Cove Sculpture Trail links Shelter Cove Community Park and Shelter Cove Veterans Memorial Park to a newly established trailhead parking area, offering visitors a scenic and artistic experience. The trail features a rotating display of public art, with both permanent and temporary sculptures that reflect the island’s rich wildlife and environmental themes.

STREET STYLE

Beth Birdwell

SENIOR BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP MANAGER AT COASTAL STATES BANK

Local since: 1988

What are you wearing? Haven

How would you describe your style?

Casual, classic and coastal. Favorite type of art: Oil paintings that are coastal-oriented.

FASHION NEWS

Sweater weather

Stay warm in the new Southern Tide Haisley Stripe Crew Neck Sweater this fall. The relaxed fit with ribbed hems offers effortless comfort and timeless fall style. The rich color palette and stripes add personality to any outfit.

Step it up

John Bayley Clothier now offers the pinnacle of luxury with its exclusive collection of shoes by Armin Oehler. Known for designing high-end leather products, Oehler blends timeless elegance with modern craftsmanship in each small-batch creation. His men’s dress shoes, inspired by the Southern U.S., embody classic style with a contemporary twist. The hand-sewn construction features a Goodyear Welt, allowing for easy sole re-crafting, making these shoes a sustainable choice. A cork insole adds extra cushioning and shock absorption, providing all-day comfort and support.

Into the garden

Shop the new capsule collection at Spartina 449. Highlands is known for its biodiversity, making it a grand botanic garden with hundreds of native trees, thousands of flowering plants and more. Inspired by the cool and mild climate that allows this natural wonder, Spartina 449’s Botanic Garden capsule collection features floral prints in dark and bright, neutral and punchy colorways.

Sock it to ‘em

It’s time to elevate your footwear style and comfort game with compression socks by Clove. Featuring 20-30 mmHG of compression and soft, cushioned bottoms, these socks keep your blood flowing in style. Clove is the perfect blend of comfort, durability and style and is now available at Palmetto Running Company

GUIDE

Handcrafted accessories

Handmade is always better. The individualism and attention to detail are just some of the perks of purchasing a handcrafted item. Here are some of the best handmade fashion accessories you can get here in the Lowcountry.

Handmade on Hilton Head Island by Stephanie Michele exclusively for SM Bradford Co. Pearls, sea glass and agates with nautical sterling silver pendants. Custom-made necklaces are available to suit your own personal style.

Available at SM Bradford

Brackish began with a feather bow tie designed by Ben Ross and gifted to his groomsman, Jeff Plotner. Since its inception, the brand has blossomed into a full line of men's and women's accessories designed and hand-crafted in Charleston, with each piece focused on honoring the beauty found in nature.

Available at John Bayley Clothier

Handknit children’s sweaters and accessories are the core of Heartside Handworks. This handcrafted in the U.S. brand makes 100% cotton knitwear for babies and toddlers, including blankets, buntings, cardigans, leggings and pullovers.

Available at Island Child

Waxing Poetic believes that love, as well as gravity and natural forces, are crucial to our overall existence on this planet and that love for the earth, her people, her resources and her ecosystems is an imperative.

Available at Island Girl

Handcrafted in Italy from authentic Italian acetate, PULPY is a circular sunglass complemented by an edgy beveled design to give a retro-futuristic look. Available at Eyeland Optique

Selina King Jewelry features ethical and effortless pieces made by hand. Most jewelry is crafted with high-quality, sustainably sourced materials, such as recycled gold and silver; ethically sourced or post-consumer diamonds; and upcycled stones from antique pieces.

Available at Palmettoes

Destination Palmetto Bluff

Exquisite Home with Captivating River and Marsh Views

Nestled in the heart of Palmetto Bluff, this home is a masterpiece of luxury living designed for the discerning buyer. Meticulously crafted, this home boasts breathtaking river and marsh views and has been completely renovated in 2022 to the highest standards.

Highlights include an inviting wrap-around porch with living and dining areas, a fireplace & built-in grill, an infinity-edge saltwater pool, and a fenced-in backyard. Discover custom window treatments, beautiful millwork, a wine cellar, a geothermal HVAC system, an elevator, and an exercise room inside. A private guest suite with a separate entrance and a spacious two-car garage with a golf cart bay adds to the convenience and luxury. This is more than just a home—it’s a lifestyle. Don’t miss your opportunity to own one of Palmetto Bluff’s finest properties.

With

A CUT ABOVE

This functional and comfortable oyster knife was specially designed in collaboration with Andrew Carmines from Hudson's Seafood House on the Docks, making it the perfect addition to your kitchen tools.

Available at Hudson's Seafood House On The Docks

PUMPED FOR PUMPKINS

These locally hand-painted pumpkins make a wonderful gift or wonderful grouping for your fall or holiday table.

Available at Marsh on the May

WINE TIME

These wine glasses bring both style and class to any gathering. Whether enjoying a nice cocktail with friends or as a glass for a meal with family, these are a must-have.

Available at Coastal Home

I'M ON BOARD

FLOWER POWER

Inspired by nature, this Hibiscus Glass vase's curved design makes it a beautiful centerpiece for your table.

Available at Cassandra's Kitchen

This beautiful, locally made serving board is the perfect addition to any Lowcountry home.

Available at Pelican Pouch

PICK OF THE PUMPKIN PATCH

Discover a curated collection of handcrafted, artistic décor and functional tools to elevate your home this autumn season.

OH MY GOURD

This decorative dish features a festive pumpkin ornament and makes a great accessory for the fall season. Available at Gifted

AHEAD OF THE CARVE

These handmade silk pumpkins use real pumpkin stems to create an elegant decor for your home this fall. They are available in a variety of different colors. Available at Pyramids create variety

FALL-ING FOR YOU

LIGHT OF MY LIFE

Light up your space with this hand-blown glass light in a charming mushroom silhouette by Abigail Ahern. Available at Carolina Jasmine

Bring a touch of fall to your home with these accent pillows featuring unique and festive fall patterns. Available at Forsythe Jewelers

HOPE THIS PANS OUT

Smithey's latest and greatest... The Little Farm House Skillet is hand-forged by artisan blacksmiths right here in the Lowcountry in Charleston. Available at Le Cookery

5-MINUTE HISTORY

Crafting an island’s legacy

HOW HILTON HEAD’S MAKERS HAVE SHAPED ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

STORY BY RICHARD THOMAS

a

Adaptability is a hallmark of human survival, and much of it hinges on creativity. That creativity often manifests in the tools and methods people devise to navigate their surroundings. Hilton Head Island’s history is rich with examples of this maker spirit, stretching back thousands of years.

The island’s first Native American inhabitants arrived roughly 6,000 years ago, bringing with them the ingenuity to carve dugout canoes from fallen tree trunks. These canoes, essential for travel and trade, were crafted through a process of controlled burning and scraping, with tools fashioned from chert and quartzite sourced from the Appalachian region. This method of “knapping” — chipping one rock with another — produced sharp tools that revolutionized the ability to hunt, gather and survive in the coastal environment.

As they settled, the native people found new uses for these tools. They pounded spartina cordgrass into fibers, which were used to make rope and nets. Oyster and conch shells, stronger than stone, became the preferred tools for scraping deer hides, while the tough auger shells were turned into needles for sewing hides into clothing and coverings. Spanish moss, woven into durable cord, replaced the less reliable cordgrass in nets for shrimp and fish traps, another hallmark of early innovation.

By 3,500 years ago, pottery-making had become a vital craft. Using clay carried down the Savannah River, the locals created simple containers that dried in the sun. Over time, they discovered that firing the clay made it stronger, a technique improved by mixing in Spanish moss for durability. This pottery, shared and refined by neighboring communities from Edisto to Savannah, was among the most advanced of its time.

With the arrival of European settlers, metal tools further advanced local craftsmanship. Though natives taught settlers to girdle trees with mud and fire to fell them, saws quickly replaced these methods, turning local timber into lumber for homes and fortifications. Shipbuilding emerged as another key industry. In 1562 French settlers at Charlesfort built the first ships in what is now the U.S., using native lumber caulked with pine pitch and Spanish moss. One of these ships famously made the perilous journey back to Europe, though not without grim consequences, including cannibalism among the survivors.

The pre-Revolutionary shipbuilding industry thrived on Hilton Head and in nearby Port Royal Sound. Shipwrights used abundant cedar and live oak, the latter prized for its dense, durable wood, perfect for shipbuilding. By 1773 Hilton Head had produced one of South Carolina’s largest wooden ships, a 280-ton schooner. After the Revolution, live oak became essential for building the new American navy. Leasing land across the sea islands, naval constructors led massive operations to harvest this hardwood. Joshua Humphrey, chief constructor for the Navy, noted that it took 55 men working around the clock for two months

Richard Thomas is an owner and guide for Hilton Head History Tours and is the author of Backwater Frontier: Beaufort Country, SC, at the Forefront of American History.

CARVING HISTORY Approximately 6,000 years ago Hilton Head Island's first Native American inhabitants arrived, crafting dugout canoes from tree trunks, using controlled burning and scraping techniques. These canoes not only facilitated movement and communication but also represented the remarkable craftsmanship and resourcefulness of its earliest residents.

WEAVING TRADITION The Gullah-Geechee people have long used sweetgrass baskets for essential tasks like storing food, carrying crops from the fields and fanning rice (tossing the grains into the air to let the wind whisk away the husks). You can learn how to make one from a Gullah basket weaver at the Coastal Discovery Museum. Join a hands-on class from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Oct. 12 or Oct. 26. Reserve your spot for $80 at coastaldiscovery.org

to gather enough live oak for just one frigate. This demand only increased after the War of 1812, attracting families like the Swifts, who moved from Massachusetts to Hilton Head in 1825 to capitalize on the live oak industry.

Agriculture was the island’s mainstay in the years leading up to the Civil War, but industry shifted over time. In the 20th century turpentine production and timber harvesting were key economic activities. Yet it wasn’t until the 1960s that Hilton Head’s modern identity as a maker truly took shape. The explosion of home building to accommodate retirees and a growing service industry made construction the dominant force in the local economy.

Today, as the island nears the limits of available land for development, the question arises: What will become the next great wave of makers on Hilton Head? Will it be in a familiar form, or will new kinds of creativity rise to define the island’s evolution? Only time will tell, but the island’s legacy of ingenuity ensures that whatever comes next, it will continue to be shaped by the hands of the makers. LL

FALL SOUTHERN ESTATES

October 23rd, 24th and 25th: 10-5 or by appointment 2436 Waters Ave, Savannah, GA 31404

10th-31st

Christopher Kiesel,

, Heidi Yoshida, CFP®, Michelle Myhre, CFP®, Sarah Huie, CFP®, Kevin Myhre

BUILT TO LAST Tabby walls are all that remain of StoneyBaynard Ruins in Sea Pines. Created from a mixture of lime, sand, water and oyster shells, tabby was widely used in the Lowcountry from the 1700s into the 19th century. Many early structures on Hilton Head were constructed from this material.

WHAT’S FRESH IN OCTOBER?

Ginger: The spice of life

A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO GROWING, STORING AND COOKING WITH NATURE’S WONDER RHIZOME.

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

fFresh ginger brings a lively zing to dishes across the globe, serving both as a culinary staple and a natural remedy for various ailments. This tan, knobby rhizome hails from Southeast Asia and is found in most grocery stores, typically near the garlic and shallots. However, many remain uncertain about how to prepare and use it effectively. Ginger is a culinary chameleon, offering a range of fragrant flavors from spicy to sweet. Whether you’re new to this aromatic root or a seasoned enthusiast, we’ve gathered everything you need to know about using fresh ginger, including tips on incorporating it into your favorite recipes.

LOCAL LIFE TEST KITCHEN

Stir-fried chicken with ginger

Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe is easy to prepare and offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The fresh ginger adds a warm, zesty kick that complements the juicy chicken and crunchy bamboo shoots, while the simple yet tasty sauce ties everything together. Whether you're looking to spice up your dinner routine or enjoy a comforting dish with an Asian flair, this stir-fry is sure to satisfy.

INGREDIENTS

1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 tablespoons fresh ginger, julienned

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red chili, sliced

1 small onion, thinly sliced

1 cup bamboo shoots, julienned

1/2 cup green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 t tablespoon oyster sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon white pepper

1/4 cup chicken broth or water

THIN STRIPS, BIG IMPACT

Julienned is a culinary technique where vegetables or other ingredients are cut into thin, uniform matchstick-sized strips. This precise method is often used to enhance the presentation and texture of dishes, making the ingredients easier to cook and more visually appealing.

DIRECTIONS [1] In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and a pinch of white pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes. [2] Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. [3] Add the marinated chicken to the pan, stir-fry until it's no longer pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. [4] In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the julienned ginger, minced garlic and sliced red chili. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. [5] Add the sliced onion, bamboo shoots and green onions to the pan. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender. [6] Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar and chicken broth or water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. [7] Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.

Root to wellness

Ginger is well-known for its anti-nausea properties, but it also aids in weight loss, relieves osteo arthritis and indigestion and may boost brain function. Additionally, ginger helps fight infections, reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s and heart disease and has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, due to its natural oils, primarily gingerol. Young ginger offers even more antioxidants and micronutrients, making it valuable if homegrown. Dogs also benefit from ginger's anti-inflammatory properties, which help with arthritis, joint issues and motion sickness — just be sure to follow dosage guidelines.

Growing your own

This tropical, heat-loving perennial thrives in the Lowcountry, even indoors in containers. Starting with fresh, organic ginger from the grocery store is often easier than using seeds. The ginger we know is the plant’s rhizome, a fleshy stem with buds that sprout into new plants. Choose lightcolored, thin-skinned rhizomes with multiple nodules, cut into 2- to 3-inch pieces, and let the ends dry before planting. Hilton Head Plantation gardener Joan LaBoiteaux said it’s best to plant ginger in rich, well-draining soil with added compost after the last frost date (March 15). With our long growing season, you can often leave the rhizomes in the ground until late fall or early winter to allow them to reach their maximum size. Harvesting can be done as needed, and the plant can be left in the ground to regrow in the spring. If using non-organic ginger, soak the rhizomes in water for 24 hours to remove any sprout inhibitors. After harvesting, rinse the ginger well and remove shoots and large roots. The leaves can be dried and used to make tea.

Freshness at your fingertips

When selecting fresh ginger, look for firm, smooth skin. A simple scrape with your fingernail should easily peel back the skin, indicating freshness. If the skin is too thick, the ginger may be older and less desirable for cooking. You also can check freshness by snapping off a piece; if it breaks away easily, it's good to go. Fresh ginger is usually sold by the pound, so don't hesitate to break off what you need from a larger piece

Storage secrets

Store fresh ginger in reusable storage bags in the refrigerator crisper drawer or freezer. Avoid wrapping it tightly in plastic, as this can promote mold growth. Unpeeled ginger keeps for about a month in the refrigerator or up to a year in the freezer. If you have an abundance of ginger, consider freezing it in pieces — it’s actually easier to grate when frozen. Freshly grated ginger can also be frozen in ice cubes; simply grate with a microplane or blender, and add the frozen ginger directly to recipes. Alternatively, thinly slice the ginger, dehydrate it until crisp, and grind it into your own ginger powder. Dried ginger should always be stored in your pantry. You also can pickle ginger or preserve it in alcohol.

Cooking with ginger

Peel ginger using a thin-edged teaspoon to scrape away the skin. While peeling isn’t always necessary, it's recommended if you're not using organic ginger. Before cutting, break off the amount needed for your recipe. This keeps the rest of the root fresh and makes it easier to handle. Sliced ginger is ideal for flavoring soups and stews, as the pieces can be easily removed when the flavor is just right. For a more potent flavor, grate the ginger, which also separates the flesh from the fibers. Be sure to grate over a bowl to catch any juice. Keep in mind that grated ginger's flavor can intensify over time, so consider this when preparing dishes in advance. Ginger is a common spice in teas, ginger ale, ginger cider, gingerbread and gingersnaps. Ground ginger is typically used in baking for its robust flavor, while fresh ginger can be grated, sliced, minced, crystallized, candied or pickled. Here are some basic ways to prepare fresh ginger:

Dehydrate: Peel and slice ginger, then dehydrate at 95 degrees for 8-12 hours. It can easily be ground into powder.

Candy: Peel and cut 6 ounces of fresh ginger, and add to a large saucepan with water and two cups of sugar. Boil for 2 hours, then sprinkle with 1/2 cup of sugar.

Preserve: Peel, slice and cut ginger into oneinch pieces, then place them in an airtight container and fill with vodka.

Roast: Peel, slice and roast ginger on a baking sheet for 45 minutes at 425 degrees. Add other root vegetables for a delicious side dish. Tea: Simmer one ounce of ginger per cup of water over medium heat for 15-20 minutes. Strain before serving. LL

Carrot-ginger bisque

Experience the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with this delightful blend of fresh carrots and zesty ginger. This recipe from the team at Frankie Bones offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, enhanced by the richness of cream and the savory depth of vegetable stock. The bisque is pureed to achieve a velvety smooth texture, making it a luxurious starter or a satisfying meal on its own.

INGREDIENTS

1 stick unsalted butter

2 medium onions, roughly chopped 5 pounds carrots, peeled and roughly chopped 1/4 cup fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped 1 gallon vegetable stock

3/4 quart heavy cream

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional toppings: Blue crab meat, savory whipped cream, chives

DIRECTIONS[1] In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. [2] Add the chopped carrots and ginger to the pot. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the carrots begin to soften, about 10 minutes. [3] Pour in the vegetable stock, ensuring that the carrots are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the carrots are completely tender, about 30-40 minutes. [4] Carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and puree until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to achieve a velvety consistency. [5] Return the pureed soup to the pot (if using a blender). Stir in the heavy cream, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. If the bisque is too thick, add a little more stock or water to reach the desired consistency. Ladle the bisque into bowls. For an elegant touch, top each serving with a dollop of savory whipped cream, a sprinkle of fresh chives and a few pieces of blue crab meat.

FRANKIE BONES

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Local flavor

DISCOVER THE SECRETS TO COOKING WELL

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

wWelcome to this month’s edition of Local Flavor, where we celebrate the rich and comforting tastes of fall. As the season shifts, so do the ingredients that inspire us in the kitchen. This month we’re bringing you a collection of recipes and tips to make the most of autumn’s bounty. From a hearty oyster stew to crafting the perfect soup base, we’ll show you how to highlight the best of fall’s harvest. Explore the wonders of tupelo honey, learn how to create a fresh, seasonal salad, and check out our guide for making the most of pumpkins. Get ready to embrace the flavors that make fall so deliciously unforgettable.

Charlie’s Bluffton Oyster Stew

Nothing captures the essence of fall quite like a comforting cup of stew, and this time-tested gem from legendary local chef Charlie Golson, the namesake of Charlie’s Coastal Bistro, is perfect for easing into oyster season. With its rich flavors and local ingredients, this stew will have you savoring the Lowcountry’s take on cooler weather.

INGREDIENTS

1 quart heavy whipping cream

1/2 pint freshly shucked Bluffton oysters

5 tablespoons chili sauce

Seasonings to taste: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, celery seed and Tobasco

DIRECTIONS [1] In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the whipping cream, chili sauce and seasonings. [2] Bring to rapid boil over medium to high heat, stirring frequently. The cream blend should be a nice salmon pink color when all the ingredients come together over the heat. [3] Lastly, drop in the oysters and cook for one minute. Divide and serve in large bowls with French baguette for dredging.

CHARLIE’S COASTAL BISTRO

How do you take your oysters?

There are as many ways to prepare oysters as there are names for oysters. You can fry them, steam them, roast them, smoke them or just slurp them right off the shell. So which way is the best?

“I’ve probably cooked them 20 different ways. Most people around here like them roasted, but I like them raw with nothing. Maybe a little hot sauce,” Bluffton oysterman Larry Toomer said. “People ask, ‘Are the oysters OK to eat raw?’ I tell them, ‘Check the obituaries. If I’m not in there, they’re still good. Because I eat them every day.’”

A flavorful twist on the old tradition is something that Andrew Carmines of Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks calls a “Carolina Rooster.” Lightly smoke your oysters (5 to 7 minutes at 220 degrees so they’re still nice and moist) then serve on a saltine with a dab of horseradish, a dab or cocktail sauce, a slice of jalapeno and a dash of hot sauce.

“It gives you this slight smokiness, along with the saltiness and the heat,” Carmines said. “I love smoked oysters; that’s such a Southern delicacy.”

RECYCLE YOUR SHELLS

After enjoying a delicious oyster roast, help protect the Lowcountry’s coastlines by recycling your oyster shells at any of these convenient locations:

Coastal Discovery Museum, Hilton Head Island

H.E. Trask Boat Landing, Bluffton

Edgar Glenn Boat Landing, Lemon Island

Sands Beach Boat Landing, Port Royal

Russ Point Landing, Hunting Island

The ultimate oyster knife

Oyster season in South Carolina runs from September through April — if the month has an “R” in it, you can count on fresh harvests. It’s also the ideal time to celebrate this coastal treasure, with oyster festivals and roasts lighting up social calendars across the Lowcountry. Elevate your oyster roast experience with the Waterman by Wölfe Oyster Knife. It was created through a collaboration between Andrew Carmines of Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks and Devlin Forsythe, co-founder of Wölfe Cutlery and Waterman Wares. Get one for $205 at Hudson’s or order one online at watermanwares.com.

FRENCH FLAIR

CHEF'S FAVORITE THINGS

We asked local chefs their favorite fall ingredient:

TRUFFLES CAFE

“Local oysters are my favorite. At just 10 calories each, they are healthy and delicious.”

– Price Beall

RED FISH

“Butternut squash. It is a very versatile vegetable. You can make soup with it, put it as a side dish, create a sauce for pasta, roast it to use on salads, make pastries with it, and it’s a great filling for ravioli. I also love really good fall spices like nutmeg, clove, cinnamon and sage.”

– Chef Melissa Coocran

THE SALTY DOG CAFE

“Collard greens grown in South Carolina. They’re very versatile – use them as a side dish, in a salad or in a soup – and they’re very good for you!”

– Chef Herb Britton

BIG JIM’S BBQ, BURGERS, PIZZA & CATERING

“I love pumpkins. You can do so much with them. Pumpkin cheesecake, pumpkin pie – you can even use them in soups or sautéed with other root vegetable as a side dish or make a pumpkin latte. If these do not sound appealing, you can always carve them.”

– Chef Patrick Blankenship

NUNZIO RESTAURANT + BAR

“Butternut squash. It is a very versatile ingredient. You can roast it, grill it, and you can make a creamy soup. You can use it as stuffing for raviolis and, finally, a tasty dessert like panna cotta, soufflés and pies.”

– Chef Nunzio Patruno

ASK THE CHEF

Dear chef, I want to use fresh ingredients and leftover items I have on hand more frequently. With it being soup season, I would love to know how to make a good soup base. How do you create your own stock or soup base that anyone can add different ingredients to?

Question: Answer:

“For our veal stock (from which we make demi-glace), we rub down veal bones with tomato paste, then roast them with carrots, onion, celery and red wine. After they have chilled, we add them to a stock pot, cover them with water and wine, add Italian fresh herbs and then slowly cook for 20 hours. If you’re pressed for time, for our chicken or pork stock/base, the steps are the same as above, but we don't add the tomato paste or wine, and we only cook the ingredients for a few hours (2-4 hours).”

– Chef Will Overacre, Michael Anthony’s

STOCK UP

For home cooks, leftover bones and vegetable scraps are perfect for crafting a flavorful stock. Roasting the ingredients first deepens their flavor, and then a slow simmer draws out all their richness. After straining the broth and seasoning it to your liking, you'll have a versatile base ready for any soup or stew. Make a large batch and freeze the extra, ensuring you have homemade stock on hand for quick, comforting meals all season long.

VEGETABLE STOCK Ingredients: Onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, fresh herbs, water, salt, pepper. Instructions: Simmer all ingredients in water for 45 minutes. Strain, season and store.

CHICKEN STOCK Ingredients: Chicken carcass, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, water, salt, pepper. Instructions: Simmer carcass and veggies in water for 2-3 hours. Strain, season and store.

BEEF STOCK Ingredients: Beef bones, onion, carrots, celery, tomato paste, garlic, herbs, water, salt, pepper. Instructions: Roast bones and veggies, then simmer with water and herbs for 4-6 hours. Strain, season and store.

Savannah Bee Company Tupelo Honey

hHoney, often called liquid gold, has been cherished as a superfood since ancient times. Harvested from the nectar of flowers and transformed into a golden elixir by the remarkable honey bee, it’s one of the world’s oldest and most beloved food sources. Beyond its natural sweetness, honey has a long history as a powerful remedy, used to treat wounds, aid digestion and soothe coughs and sore throats. Its value was so great that ancient Greeks, Vikings and Egyptians even used it as currency.

GOLDEN NECTAR

Tupelo honey, prized for its light, floral flavor, is produced in only two U.S. regions: the Okefenokee Swamp along the Georgia–Florida border and Georgia’s Apalachicola River Basin. The unique conditions of these wetlands, where white Tupelo trees bloom for a few weeks each spring, allow bees to create this honey known for its smooth texture, sweetness and resistance to crystallization. Find it at Savannah Bee Company stores and in many local shops around the Lowcountry.

Now, you might be thinking, "Honey isn't exactly a secret ingredient!" But for some, local honey from Savannah Bee Company just might be. We asked Scott Hastings, chef and owner of Lulu Kitchen, to share an underused ingredient, and his pick was Savannah Bee Company’s Tupelo Raw Honey.

“We use it in a couple of different applications,” Hastings explained. “First, this is the main ingredient in all of our salad dressings, giving them just a hint of all-natural sweetness. We also use it in our house polenta, for our halibut dish and our sweet corn coulis. But be mindful that a little bit goes a long way!”

This is the honey that sparked it all for Savannah Bee Company. Founder Ted Dennard fell in love with beekeeping among the Tupelo trees along the Georgia-Florida border, beginning a passion that endures to this day. Known for its distinct buttery flavor and golden-green hue, Tupelo honey remains one of the most coveted honeys in the world, offering a rich, buttery undertone with a delicate sweetness that fades gracefully.

Sweet ways to use Tupelo honey

From savory dishes to desserts, Tupelo honey’s rare, smooth sweetness is a simple way to elevate your culinary creations.

Sweeten your tea: Swap out sugar or other sweeteners for Tupelo honey to give your favorite tea a delicate, floral note. Its smoothness blends beautifully in both hot and iced teas.

Drizzle over cheese: Add a touch of elegance to your cheese board by drizzling Tupelo honey over creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The contrast of savory and sweet creates a delightful bite.

Glaze for meats: Create a rich, flavorful glaze for roasted meats such as ham, chicken or pork. Combine Tupelo honey with mustard or citrus juice for a sweet and tangy finish.

Dress up salads: Whisk Tupelo honey into a simple vinaigrette with olive oil, lemon juice and mustard. Its mild sweetness pairs perfectly with fresh greens and fruit.

Enhance your baking: Use Tupelo honey in baked goods like cakes, muffins and cookies. Its resistance to crystallization keeps desserts moist and flavorful longer.

Spread on toast: For a quick and delicious breakfast, spread Tupelo honey over warm toast, or mix it with butter for a sweet twist on a classic.

HOW TO Make a fall salad

LOCAL LIFE TEST KITCHEN Warm fig salad

Embrace the flavors of fall with this delightful blend of roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts and fresh figs. Bursting with color and packed with nutrients, this hearty dish is elevated with the tang of feta, the crunch of pomegranate seeds and a drizzle of maple-balsamic dressing. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a holiday side, this salad showcases the best of seasonal ingredients in every bite.

INGREDIENTS (SALAD)

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth

1 large sweet potato, peeled and sliced

1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved

2 tablespooons olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

6 fresh figs, quartered

1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

2 cups arugula

1/4 cup pecans, toasted

INGREDIENTS (DRESSING)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon maple syrup

Salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS [1] Heat oven to 400 degrees. On a baking sheet, toss the sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread them out evenly and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through. [2] While the vegetables are roasting, bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside. [3] In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt and pepper until well combined. [4] In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, arugula and toasted pecans. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Add the halved fresh figs, crumbled feta cheese and pomegranate seeds on top. Serve warm.

sSalads are among the healthiest and most versatile dishes, but many of us stick to the same old favorites — Caesar, wedge, Cobb or chef. Once we find a go-to salad, we rarely venture beyond it. However, salads should evolve with the seasons, just like the fresh fruits and vegetables available. As ingredients change throughout the year, so should your salad.

With fall approaching in the Lowcountry, we asked local chefs what they include in their fall salads, and their creative responses did not disappoint.

“We use Tuten Farm's products harvested in the fall, such as acorn or butternut squash, and then roast them with honey and cinnamon,” said Skull Creek Dockside chef Alecia Angioletti. “We also use Grow Carolina, who gets products from all the local farms around Charleston such as apples, pears, figs, beets and grapes. Combining all those ingredients with spicy toasted pumpkin seeds and a honey-based dressing is a good way to finish a fall salad.”

Frankie Bones chef Luke Lyons also recommended a few fall ingredients to throw in the mix. “For a fall salad, our Thanksgiving menu features an Autumn Salad, which features a mix of artisanal lettuces, candied pecans, cranberries and apples, with a balsamic vinaigrette,” Lyons said.

Tips for making the perfect fall salad

Roast seasonal vegetables: Incorporate hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts or butternut squash. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and adds warmth to the salad.

Use hearty greens: Opt for sturdy greens like kale, arugula or spinach, which hold up well to warm ingredients and offer a crisp, nutritious base.

Add a crunch: Include toasted nuts like walnuts, pecans or hazelnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements fall ingredients.

Incorporate fresh and dried fruits: Seasonal fruits like figs, apples, pears or pomegranate seeds add a burst of sweetness. Dried cranberries or apricots also work well for a touch of chewiness.

Balance with creamy elements: Crumbled feta, goat cheese or even blue cheese add creaminess and balance to the roasted vegetables with a tangy contrast.

Layer in grains: Quinoa, farro or barley can bulk up your salad, making it more filling and hearty for cooler days.

Use a sweet-tangy dressing: Pair autumn flavors with dressings that combine sweetness and acidity, like maple vinaigrette, balsamic or apple cider-based dressings. Don’t forget protein: Add roasted chicken, turkey or chickpeas for a protein boost, turning the salad into a complete meal.

Play with color: Make the salad visually appealing by combining vibrant autumnal hues like orange (sweet potato), deep green (kale), red (pomegranate) and white (feta). Serve warm or at room temperature: Serving the salad warm or at room temperature enhances the flavors of roasted vegetables and ensures a cozy autumn vibe.

Skull Creek Dockside

LULU Kitchen

WINE DINNER OCTOBER 12TH

Join us for our monthly wine dinners featuring gourmet cuisine and award-winning wines.

Fresh Market Shoppes 890 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island 843.648.5858 | LuluKitchen-HHI.com

Pumpkins are more than just a fall decoration or pie ingredient — they’re incredibly versatile, and with a little creativity you can make the most of every part of this autumn staple. Chef Greg Tucker from the Country Club of Hilton Head shares his top tips to ensure no part of your pumpkin goes to waste.

Pumpkin purée: Roast the flesh and blend it into a smooth purée. Use it for soups, pies, breads or even savory dishes.

Save the seeds: If you're working with heirloom pumpkins, keep the seeds for planting next year to grow your own pumpkin patch.

Roast the seeds: Toss the seeds with your favorite seasoning and roast them for a crunchy, nutritious snack.

Pumpkin cider:

Steep the stringy insides in water with spices to create a warming pumpkin cider.

Pumpkin chips: Slice the skin, season it and bake for a crisp, healthy alternative to traditional chips.

Serving vessel: Hollow out the pumpkin and use it as a unique, rustic serving bowl at your next gathering.

Wildlife feeder: Place leftover pumpkins in your yard to provide a tasty treat for wildlife like birds, deer, squirrels and more.

ORIN SWIFT WINE DINNER

Pet treats: Both the flesh and seeds are great for pets. Pumpkins promote digestive health, and the seeds act as a natural dewormer for chickens. LL

SCAN TO RESERVE A TABLE

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10 • 6:00 - 8:30 PM Prix Fixe Menu with Wine Pairing Open 7 nights a week • Dinner 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Rev up your appetite

SPICE, JEEPS AND GOOD TIMES AWAIT AT THE KIWANIS CLUB OF HILTON HEAD ISLAND CHILI COOK-OFF.

iIt’s that time of year again — the weather is cooling, the smell of savory spices is in the air, and the Lowcountry’s best cooks are heating up their outdoor stoves for one of Hilton Head Island’s most beloved traditions: the annual Kiwanis Club of Hilton Head Island Chili CookOff. Mark your calendars for Oct. 12, when Lowcountry Celebration Park will come alive with mouth-watering chili, cold drinks and a stunning display of Jeeps from across the East Coast.

A spicy showdown

At the heart of the event, of course, is the chili cook-off. Talented cooks — both seasoned professionals and enthusiastic amateurs — will go head-to-head, vying for first, second and third place in professional and amateur categories. What makes this competition even more special is that the first-place winners in each category earn cash prize donations to the youth charity of their choice.

FEELING CHILI?

HILTON HEAD ISLAND KIWANIS

CHILI COOK-OFF & JEEP ISLAND

When: Noon-3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 12

Where: Lowcountry Celebration Park, Hilton Head Island

Details: Enjoy chili from over 25 local vendors competing in professional and amateur categories. The entry ticket is $10, with $1 tasting tickets sold on-site, or $30 for all you can eat. Admission is free for ages 10 and under. Purchase tickets at hiltonheadkiwanis.com

One of the fan favorites returning this year is Bernard Burton, Ryan Wise and the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island. Their team has racked up many awards over the years, thanks to their unique take on chili and the collaborative spirit they bring to the competition. As Wise explains, their secret to great chili isn’t just about the ingredients — it’s about teamwork and love.

“The kids at the Boys & Girls Club know that the best chili comes from collaboration, creativity and a bit of fun,” Wise said. Their famous recipe includes a mix of black beans, cannelloni beans, corn and Rotel tomatoes, all seasoned with a blend of cumin, chili powder and ranch dressing mix. The chili is finished with precooked chicken breast for that extra hearty touch.

CHILI CHAMPION Orchid Paulmeier and her team at One Hot Mama’s have long reigned over the professional category, with numerous victories under their belt. Last year Orchid’s legendary brisket burnt-end chili once again proved unbeatable, claiming top honors in both professional categories.

LAND SEA By &by

perennial

Jim Hewitt and his Hilton Head PSD team, the Red-Hot Chili Preppers, also will be heating things up this year. The team has been competing since 2017, and after several close calls, it finally broke through to win the amateur division last year. Known for its meat-heavy chili, which features brisket, ground beef, bacon, bison and steak, the team prides itself on using fresh ingredients and crafting a flavor-packed chili that’s as bold as it is delicious. “The more meat, the better,” Hewitt said. They whip up an impressive 7-8 gallons of chili each year, and it always sells out.

If you’re looking for a truly unique chili experience, don’t miss the tent from Giuseppi’s Pizza and Pasta, led by executive chef and partner, Jason Galizia. This year Galizia is bringing his A-game with a three-meat smoked chili, featuring beef grilled over oak, pork smoked over hickory and chicken smoked over mesquite.

2023 WINNERS

JUDGED PROFESSIONAL 1. One Hot Mama’s

British Open Pub

Charbar Co.

JUDGED AMATEUR

Hilton Head PSD

Bluffton High School JROTC

Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island

POPULAR VOTE, PROFESSIONAL

One Hot Mama’s

Giuseppi's

Sonesta Resort

POPULAR VOTE, AMATEUR

1. Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island

2. Hilton Head PSD 3. Amy Aurelio & Associates

A WINNING RECIPE The Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island is a

favorite in the People’s Choice category, thanks to their time-tested recipe featuring a hearty mix of beans, corn, chicken and Rotel tomatoes, seasoned with cumin, chili powder and ranch dressing mix.

HOT AND HEARTY Chili lovers can savor a variety of styles at the event, from the hearty, sweet-spiced Cincinnati-style chili, known for its use of cinnamon and chocolate, to the creamy, comforting white chili, typically made with chicken, white beans and a zesty blend of green chiles and spices.

Fun for the whole family

The event features a Kids Zone packed with fun activities for the little ones, making it a perfect day out for the whole family. The Kiwanis Grill Team will be on hand, serving up its legendary burgers and hot dogs for those who want to take a break from chili-tasting. And for the adults, there will be plenty of beverages available to wash down all that spicy goodness.

A key aspect of this event is its focus on community. Each team brings its own flair to the competition, but everyone is there to support great causes and have a good time. As Hewitt puts it, “We truly love the interaction with the locals throughout the day and the trash-talking between some of the other teams, especially the firefighters.” LL

JEEP LOVER’S PARADISE While the chili cook-off may be the main attraction for food lovers, Jeep Island is sure to thrill auto enthusiasts. The exposition showcases Jeeps from all over the East Coast, with participants competing in various best-in-show competitions.

news&notes RESTAURANT

FRESH FOOD + NOW OPEN + HOT PRODUCTS

NOW OPEN

EXCITING NEW RESTAURANTS TO EXPLORE

The Lowcountry dining scene is buzzing with the arrival of several new restaurants that promise to satisfy every culinary craving. Whether you're seeking eclectic dishes, bold international flavors or a quick coffee pick-me-up, these fresh openings are ready to welcome you. Here’s what’s new and worth checking out:

GG’s Restaurant & Bar, Port Royal: GG’s isn’t just a spot to eat — it’s a place to connect. With the motto “play, eat, vibe, drink = community,” GG’s creates a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy a diverse menu of eclectic dishes and refreshing beverages. The spacious outdoor area features plenty of seating, a stage for live music and a fully fenced-in playground, making it a perfect destination for families. Conveniently located at 1003 Paris Avenue, it’s open seven days a week for all to enjoy.

Viet Kitchen, Bluffton: Craving the rich, authentic flavors of Vietnam? Viet Kitchen brings the best of Southeast Asian cuisine to the Lowcountry. Offering everything from hearty bowls of pho to vermicelli dishes and crispy rolls, this spot is perfect for lovers of bold, comforting flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or want to try something new, Viet Kitchen delivers. Visit them in Buckwalter Plaza at 8210 Pinellas Drive, open daily for lunch and dinner.

Cafe Al Dente Take Out Kitchen, Hilton Head Island: Fans of the original Cafe Al Dente in Coligny will love this new takeout concept. Located at 19 Dunnagans Alley, the Cafe Al Dente Take Out Kitchen offers a delicious selection of grab-and-go entrees, sandwiches and ready-to-eat family meals. Whether you’re in need of a quick lunch or an easy dinner for the whole family, this spot has you covered. It’s the perfect solution for busy nights or when you’re craving a taste of their classic dishes without the wait. Open Tuesday through Saturday.

7-Brew, Bluffton: On the hunt for a fast and delicious coffee fix? 7-Brew might be your new go-to. Known for serving premium coffee at lightning speed, this drive-thru chain delivers a blend of classic coffee favorites and sweet treats, all while cultivating an atmosphere of kindness and positivity. Located at 1553 Fording Island Road, 7-Brew is open seven days a week, ensuring you can always get your caffeine kick when you need it. Swing by and start your day with a smile.

New restaurants and rooftop bar coming to Beaufort

A new three-story, 18,000-square-foot building is set to transform downtown Beaufort. Slated for completion in 2025, this structure will feature up to two restaurants and a rooftop bar, making it the tallest building on Bay Street. Located at 101 Scott Street, the building will overlook picturesque Waterfront Park. The project is being spearheaded by property owner and developer, Graham Trask. As part of the construction, YoYo’s Ice Cream, currently on the site, will be demolished. However, neighboring businesses — Cook on Bay, YoYo’s Frozen Yogurt and The Rustic Pup Biscuits and Boutique — will remain unaffected.

Local favorites say goodbye

While the Lowcountry welcomes exciting new restaurant openings, some beloved spots have recently closed their doors, leaving a void in the hearts of loyal patrons. These closures mark the end of an era for several community favorites that will certainly be missed:

Stacks Pancakes, Hilton Head Island

Aunt Chiladas, Hilton Head Island

TJ’s Take & Bake Pizza, Hilton Head Island Pizza Co., Bluffton

Fat Patties, Beaufort

Side Hustle unveils new taproom events

As Side Hustle Brewing Company's new location at 10 Buck Island Road in Bluffton continues to grow in popularity, exciting new activities are being added to the mix. The Side Hustle Bluffton Taproom now hosts Community Night every Thursday from 4-7 p.m., offering $1 off all draft beers. In addition, the taproom has introduced Trivia Tuesdays and Music Bingo Wednesdays, both running from 6-8 p.m. To top it off, a food truck is on-site daily, providing delicious bites to pair with your favorite brews. Visit sidehustlebrewingcosc.com for more details.

Fill the Well

This year Deep Well has been responding to requests for help in numbers we have not previously seen.

Working islanders–stable and productive–are challenged to meet the rising costs of rent and mortgages, food, electricity, gasoline, and the basic needs of their families.

The need is great, and it’s a daily struggle to keep food on our shelves and assistance funds flowing. Help us continue to be the safety net for local families.

Your donations and support are welcomed now more than ever. We appreciate your assistance.

To learn more about Deep Well, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram. deepwellproject.org

DONATE ONLINE: www.deepwellproject.org/donate

DONATE BY MAIL: P.O. Box 5543 • Hilton Head Island, SC 29938

DONATE IN PERSON: 80 Capital Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

VOLUNTEER: Call Lori Alexander or email volunteer@deepwellproject.org 843-785-2849

Big changes ahead for SERG Group

Exciting news is on the horizon for One Hot Mama’s as it prepares for a major relocation. After an incredible 17-year run at Reilley’s Plaza, the beloved Hilton Head barbecue spot is moving to a new venue set to open in December 2024. The new location, just outside the Sea Pines main gate at the corner of Greenwood Drive and Office Park Road, will take over the space formerly occupied by Nectar Hilton Head.

SERG Group, which has owned the property since 2006 when it was Marley’s Island Grille, sees this move as the perfect opportunity for One Hot Mama’s to continue its legacy for the next 20 years. While Nectar Hilton Head has thrived over the past four years with positive feedback and a loyal following, the partners believe the new site is an ideal fit for One Hot Mama's award-winning BBQ. In the meantime, Nectar will continue to serve customers from its Old Town Bluffton location, and SERG has plans to explore future opportunities for the Nectar brand on Hilton Head.

Nectar Hilton Head closed its doors on October 1 to make way for the renovation process, transforming the space for One Hot Mama’s grand reopening. Meanwhile, Marley’s Shrimp and Burger Shack will also undergo changes, with plans for an upgraded indoor/outdoor bar concept. Many of Nectar's management and staff will transition to the Bluffton location, the new One Hot Mama’s or other positions within the SERG Group, which continues to expand with exciting new ventures. Among these is Local Legend Brewing Company, set to open at 1014 William Hilton Parkway in January 2025. It will feautre a full-service restaurant, brewery, beer garden and will offer a variety of games alongside its food and brews. Keep an eye on each restaurant’s social media pages for the latest updates.

Coming soon: The Shoppes at Okatie Village

Bluffton’s dining scene is about to expand with the arrival of The Shoppes at Okatie Village, a brand-new retail complex set to house some exciting restaurant options. Conveniently located at 201 Okatie Village Drive, near the intersection of SC 170 and U.S. 278, this 9,911-square-foot development will feature spacious patio dining areas and plenty of parking. Positioned next to Wells Fargo Bank and across from Food Lion, The Shoppes at Okatie Village is shaping up to be a must-visit destination for food lovers. Here's a sneak peek at what’s on the menu:

Parlor Doughnuts: This craft doughnut and coffee shop is known for its Famous Layered Doughnuts, offering a unique twist on a beloved treat. In addition to their signature doughnuts, Parlor offers vegan, gluten-friendly and keto-friendly options, along with artisanal breakfasts and specialty coffee.

Omelette Cafe: Breakfast lovers, rejoice! Omelette Cafe promises a standout morning dining experience, serving dishes made with locally sourced, fair trade ingredients. Expect top-notch quality and an unforgettable breakfast in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Firehouse Subs: Known for its hot subs and sandwiches, Firehouse Subs uses premium meats and cheeses, steamed to perfection and stacked high on their signature toasted sub rolls. It’s a favorite for anyone craving a quick, quality sub.

New Italian spot is coming to Beaufort

While many are saddened by the closure of Fat Patties, a beloved Beaufort institution for 12 years, owner Nick Borreggine has exciting plans to fill the void with a fresh concept. Fat Patties, known for its gourmet burgers, closed its doors due to rising inflation and a desire to diversify the customer base. In its place, Borreggine will introduce Scratch Italian Kitchen + Bar, bringing a muchneeded Italian dining experience to the area north of the Broad River. This casual new spot will offer pasta made from scratch right in the dining room, allowing guests to enjoy fresh, house-made dishes. Additionally, customers will have the option to purchase pasta to cook at home, adding a unique twist to the traditional dining experience. Borreggine, who also owns Shellring Ale Works and Avlin Ord’s Sandwich Shop, is aiming to open Scratch next month, if all goes as planned. For updates on the grand opening, be sure to follow Scratch on Facebook.

A larger-than-life donation

SERG Restaurant Group donated $25,000 to Pockets Full of Sunshine, a beloved local nonprofit dedicated to providing support and resources for adults with special needs. This substantial contribution will aid the organization in retrofitting its newly acquired building, aptly named “The Sunshine House,” helping to ensure that it meets the needs of the community it serves. serggroup.com

Lincoln & South named official beer of Seafood Festival

Our grab-and-go box sets make the perfect gift at seasonal soirees, birthday bashes, major milestones, and for everyone on your gift list, from holiday hostesses, to corporate clients, to terrific teachers.

Lincoln & South Brewing Company has been named the Official Beer for the 2025 Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival. Get ready to enjoy our craft brews alongside local seafood and festivities February 17-23. Tickets are on sale now, so grab yours for an unforgettable celebration of great beer and coastal flavors. hiltonheadseafoodfestival.com, lincolnandsouth.com

Quick Bites

FOOD & BEVERAGE SCENE

Ralphie’s Pizza is open again since renovating.

South End Seafood relocated to 2 Greenwood Drive, near the Sea Pines circle.

Local Pie and Frosty Frog are opening new locations in New Riverside Village.

Beaufort Station restaurants Chicken Salad Chick, Panda Express and Surcheros Fresh Mex are opening this month.

Blacksheep x Sabbatical now offers online ordering.

Marley’s Shrimp & Burger Shack is closed for the season and undergoing renovations. All Lincoln & South Brewing Company burgers will now be served on fresh Sprout Momma Bread

Hilton Head Brewing Company is selling its own dog treats.

The Kitchen in Beaufort is expanding; check their Facebook page for updates.

Wine Time Bluffton launched a Win-ology: Fun, Engaging Wine Education for Everyone, a program inviting you to explore the diverse universe of wine through fun tastings, enlightening lunch & learn sessions, food & wine pairing events and a range of immersive activities that will boost your wine wisdom.

Lemon Island Seafood is now doing pop-ups around Beaufort and Jasper counties.

GIVING BACK

Java Burrito donated a portion of sales one night to Sea Pines Montessori School.

During September, Burnt Church Distillery donated 5% of its revenue from tours, cocktails of the month, memberships and community events to Cure Childhood Cancer.

Dough Boys Pizza Hilton Head donated a portion of sales one night to St. Luke’s Preschool.

SERG Restaurant Group donated $2,000 to Sea Turtle Patrol as part of their Community Strong program.

Wine Time donated $1 of every sale to Tunnels to Towers Foundation through their September “Buck-a-Battle, Buck-a-Bottle” program.

The SERG Star Readers Challenge is back through the end of the month. Last month a portion of Zunzibar’s sales went to Cure Childhood Cancer.

Cactus Street Cantina donated $1,373 to Jasper Animal Rescue Mission for August. 10% of September bowl sales went to Turtle Trackers of Hilton Head Island.

SERG Restaurant Group donated a portion of T-shirt sales for $5,000 to Hilton Head Humane.

At Mellow Mushroom until Nov. 11, $1 from every Go Pink cocktail and every whole order of pretzel ribbons sold will be donated to Susan G. Komen, the world’s leading breast cancer organization.

WHAT TIME IS IT?

Jarvis Creek General Store has new fall hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days a week.

Bluffton Pasta Shoppe has extended its hours and will now be open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday-Friday and 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday.

Captain Woody’s Bar & Grill in Bluffton is open on Sundays again.

Plums Sunday Supper is back at Plums Restaurant in Beaufort from 5:30-9 p.m., Sundays.

Cantaritos Mexican Kitchen now serves a Mexican traditional breakfast daily from 7-11 a.m.

La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant is now serving brunch.

Mixx on Main has weekly Sunday Funday tailgate parties every Sunday from noon-8 p.m. during football season.

MILESTONES WORTH CELEBRATING

The South Carolina Chef Ambassador Program celebrated 10 years.

Calhoun Street Tavern celebrated eight years of business.

Tin & Tallow and Locals Only Taproom celebrated one year of business.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU?

Daily Café and Market announced that it will soon be expanding the menu with high-quality, locally sourced gelato, authentic Italian paninis and more.

SliderBar Bluffton has a new cocktail menu including a Bergamont Spritz with Rosemary, a Strawberry Rhubarb Spritz and Brazilian Lemonade.

The Smokehouse has a new and improved menu.

Reilley’s Grill & Bar has a special menu for football season.

The vanilla cake donut ice cream sandwiches at Duck Donuts are now a permanent menu item.

Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar has an early dining menu from 4:30-5:45 p.m. daily during the fall season.

The Sports Bites menu is back at The Bonito Boathouse at Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort.

Kilwins is serving a seasonal Apple Pie Caramel Apple featuring a crisp granny smith apple dipped in Kilwins copper kettle-cooked caramel, covered in Kilwins heritage white chocolate and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar.

Corner Perk has a new seasonal drink menu for fall in all three locations.

Lulu Kitchen has a new fall menu.

Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana has new fall menu items including five new appetizers, several new pasta creations and four new meat and seafood dishes.

Holy Tequila launched a new menu featuring old fan favorites, new must-try drinks and dishes like the Torta De Carolina Cubana.

Hilton Head Tavern introduced a new seafood menu with everything freshly cooked and steamed by the pound daily.

If there’s one thing that drew me to wine, it was the stories behind each bottle. Whether it’s a tale of struggle, serendipity or a legacy passed down through generations, these stories are what make a wine memorable. Today, however, the wine industry is shifting. The next generation often isn’t there to carry on family traditions, and global corporations are stepping in and buy up wineries. The result? Fewer handcrafted wines and more mass-produced brands. For brands, consistency is key — creating a wine that tastes the same year after year. But for winemakers, that’s never the goal. Winemakers work with nature, tasting grapes as they ripen, adapting to the challenges each season brings. The wine they produce is a reflection of that journey, with all its unpredictability. In contrast, branded wines rely on additives and tricks to maintain uniformity, making the process feel more like a science experiment than an art form.

A prime example of this transition from maker to brand is The Prisoner, a popular red blend originally crafted by winemaker Dave Phinney. Launched in the early 2000s, it became a cult classic, thanks to its bold spice and depth. Phinney built the brand to 85,000 cases before selling it to Huneeus Vintners in 2010 for $40 million. Huneeus doubled production to 170,000 cases, eventually selling The Prisoner to Constellation Brands for a staggering $285 million just six years later — a record-breaking deal in the wine world.

This fall, instead of reaching for The Prisoner, consider trying Venge Vineyards’ Scout’s Honor red blend. Made from old-vine Zinfandel, Charbono, Petite Sirah and Syrah, this wine offers rich blue fruit with silky tannins. The Venge family’s winemaking tradition stretches back to their Danish roots at the turn of the century. Nils Venge broke away from the family’s wine importing business to follow his passion for winemaking, and today his son Kirk carries on that legacy.

in

carries on a legacy of meticulous winemaking, crafting each vintage to capture the unique essence of its growing season. Their Scout’s Honor blend is an ideal choice for October, offering bold, comforting flavors that complement pleasant evenings and hearty seasonal dishes perfectly.

Margaret Pearman is a certified sommelier under the Court of Master Sommeliers and is responsible for curating the award-winning wine list at Charlie’s Coastal Bistro. Here is her sipping suggestion for October:

drink?

SCOUT'S HONOR

Located

the heart of Napa Valley, Venge Vineyards

Trick or treat

COCKTAIL CONCOCTIONS FOR HALLOWEEN.

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

As the Halloween season rolls in, it’s time to embrace the spooky spirit with some ghoulishly good cocktails. Whether you're throwing a party, settling in with a horror flick or simply sneaking in a sip between trick-or-treaters, these spine-chilling drinks will add a perfect touch of seasonal fun. Try one of these devilishly delightful concoctions inspired by the eerie and enchanting vibe of Halloween.

HILTON HEAD DISTILLERY

Zombie Cocktail

Unleash the Tiki magic with this hauntingly tropical blend that started the Tiki craze. Beware — this Zombie Cocktail isn’t for the faint of heart: it features a trio of aged, gold and dark rums that pack a powerful punch.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 ounces E.S.D. (Extra Special Dark) Rum

1 ounce Ghost Pirates Gold Rum

1/2 ounce Solera Rum

1 ounce passion fruit juice

1 ounce pineapple juice

1 ounce lime juice

1/2 ounce lemon juice

DIRECTIONS [1] Add all ingredients into a shaker tin with ice. [2] Shake well and strain into an ice-filled Tiki mug or glass. [3] Garnish with tropical fruit to complete the tropical terror!

ROLLERS WINE & SPIRITS

Spooky Sangria

Carson Copeland and the ghoulish gang at Rollers Wine & Spirits have conjured up the perfect potion for your Halloween festivities. To brew this devilishly delicious sangria, Copeland suggests a bottle of Cueva de Lobos Rioja, Evodia Garnacha or Isabella Bobal — each bringing a wickedly rich flavor to this spine-chilling seasonal sip.

INGREDIENTS

2 large granny smith apples

Juice of 1 Lemon

2 blood oranges, sliced into thin rounds

1 cup blackberries

1 cup pomegranate seeds

1 750ml bottle of light red wine (Roller’s suggestion: Cueva de lobos Rioja, Evodia Garnacha or Isabella Bobal)

3 cups Italian soda, blood orange or pomegranate flavor

3 ounces crème de cassis

1 1/2 ounces simple syrup

Ice

DIRECTIONS [1] Slice apples lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick slices. Using a ghostshaped cookie cutter, cut out 12 ghost-shaped apple pieces. Using a straw or skewer, punch 3 holes into each apple to form eyes and a mouth. Transfer to a medium bowl, add lemon juice, and lightly toss to coat. [2] Fill a large punch bowl with ice. Add apple ghosts, orange slices, blackberries and pomegranate seeds and gently toss to combine. Add wine, soda, créme de cassis and simple syrup and stir until combined. Serve cold.

The drive for excellence

EXPERIENCE THE INTERSECTION OF LUXURY, INNOVATION AND HISTORY AT THIS YEAR’S HILTON HEAD ISLAND CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE & MOTORING FESTIVAL.

T.

MOMENTS IN MOTION

Each day of the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival (Oct. 31–Nov. 3) showcases a unique collection, a distinct form of automotive artistry, with each exhibition capturing a one-of-a-kind moment in time that will never be replicated.

STORY BY LESLIE

SNADOWSKY + PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARNO DIMMLING

tThe wheel, invented in the 4th millennium BC, and the motor, introduced in the early 1800s, together revolutionized the world of transportation. This fall, from Thursday, Oct. 31 to Sunday, Nov. 3, the 23rd Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival will celebrate this legacy by honoring the past, championing the future and highlighting the visionary spirit that has propelled the evolution of mobility. Designed to entertain, educate and inspire, the festival also serves a greater cause, with proceeds benefiting local charities and providing scholarships for students pursuing careers in the automotive and mobility industries.

More than 20,000 attendees are expected to gather on the island to marvel at the elegant and innovative cars, motorcycles, planes and boats showcased at venues like the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Hilton Head Island Airport and Port Royal Golf Club. With an abundance of experiences, exhibits and ticket options to explore, the festival offers a lot to navigate. To help steer you through four thrilling days of nonstop Hilton Head horsepower, LOCAL Life takes a lap around the key highlights to keep you on track.

If your business manufactures products for the aerospace industry, owns aviation sites, offers aviation services or operates aircraft or drones, you may have exposures that are not covered under your current insurance policies. As an independent insurance agency and consulting firm specializing in aviation, JCL Aviation Services is here to help. We’ll identify and assess your risk and create solutions that match your exposure.

843-757-2983

www.JCLAviationServices.com Follow us on LinkedIn

Rolling out the red carpet

tThe festival kicks off in style from 5-9 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31, with a glamorous red carpet event. The 8th annual Grand Motoring Film Festival, held at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, celebrates the fusion of Oscar-worthy elegance and high-octane cinematic thrills. Guests can indulge in heavy hors d’oeuvres, enjoy a cocktail cash bar, admire classic and collector cars, explore sponsor exhibits and witness the theatrical premiere of this year’s headliner, Chrysler Turbine Car

REDISCOVERING A LEGEND Catch the premiere of Chrysler Turbine Car at this year’s Grand Motoring Film Festival on Oct. 31 at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. This experimental two-door hardtop coupe, powered by a turbine engine, was manufactured by Chrysler from 1963 to 1964 and remains an

Filmmakers from around the world have submitted their documentaries, web videos, brand films and TV shows to the festival, with an on-site awards ceremony honoring the best motoring films of the year.

“This event is a great experience,” says festival communications coordinator Kelly B. Smith. “It’s a Hollywood affair for people who want to experience automotive and cinematic arts.”

START YOUR ENGINES VIP passes, priced at $130, include two reserved tickets for the Grand Motoring Film Festival on Oct. 31, along with access to the awards program, filmmaker reception and priority seating. General admission tickets are available for $62 per person and can be purchased at grandmotoring.com.

iconic piece of automotive innovation.

©HILTON HEAD ISLAND CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE & MOTORING FESTIVAL

New Adventure!

•Brand new luxury Aloha pontoon boat rentals

•150 horsepower Yamaha engine

•Easy to operate with Garmin GPS navigation

•Comfortable seating for up to 12 people

•9 ft Sunbrella for fun in the shade

Operating exclusively out of Shelter Cove Marina

Sky meets style

sStep into an evening of sophistication and elegance at Flights & Fancy, happening from 7-10 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1, at Hilton Head Island Airport (general aviation). Indulge in gourmet culinary delights and premium beverages while surrounded by a dazzling array of vintage and modern aircraft, as well as sleek, highperformance automobiles.

“We take over a hangar as well as part of the tarmac at the Hilton Head Island Airport,” Smith said. “We work hard to curate a collection there that you will not see the rest of the weekend. We will be pairing cars with similar-era planes. It’s magical because of the way it looks at night. So many people never get up close and personal with these kinds of planes, so it is very special.”

©MICHAEL HRIZUK

Adding to the excitement, the festival has partnered with BMW Performance, allowing party guests the chance to experience the thrill of their high-performance vehicles firsthand.

“It’s one of the best-kept secrets at the festival,” Smith reveals. “If you attend Flights & Fancy, you could potentially take a little nighttime ride on the flyway. They get you up to a hundred miles an hour for a ride in their performance cars with their professional drivers.”

Attendees are encouraged to don cocktail attire (jackets recommended for gentlemen) and dress for the weather, as the venue features both indoor and outdoor experiences. The gala will offer an array of gourmet food stations, premium beverages, guest chefs, live DJ entertainment and special guests — including 2013 X-Factor winner Alex Kinsey.

SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCE

Alex Kinsey, formerly one half of the duo Alex & Sierra, will make a special appearance at this year’s Flights & Fancy event. The duo rose to stardom after winning the third and final season of The X Factor. Since their split in 2017, both artists have pursued successful solo careers.

NEED FOR SPEED

One of the best-kept secrets of the festival is the high-speed nighttime rides with professional drivers during Flights & Fancy at Hilton Head Island Airport (general aviation).

©MICHAEL HRIZUK

A day of automotive and aviation splendor

ttheir representatives. Close to 200 magnificent cars will line the 1st and 18th fairways of the Planters Row golf course at Port Royal, vying for the top honors.

The festival will embrace its passion for both automobilia and aerophilia on Saturday, Nov. 2, with the highly anticipated Car Club Showcase & Aero Expo. More than 250 meticulously curated cars and aircraft will be on parade, representing distinguished car clubs and aviators from across the country.

At the Port Royal Golf Club, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., an impressive lineup of vehicles will be displayed along the 1st and 18th fairways of the Planters Row course, where invited clubs will compete for prestigious awards. Each vehicle, a testament to modern engineering, has been selected for its unique story and craftsmanship. The Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club (RROC) and its Southeast Region will also host a “national mini meet,” featuring an opulent display of “Proper Motor Cars,” showcasing the luxury and elegance synonymous with the brand.

PRESTIGE ON THE FAIRWAYS More than 20 esteemed clubs will grace the Car Club Showcase on Nov. 2, making for an exhilarating day at Port Royal Golf Club. This isn't your ordinary “cars and coffee” gathering; here, clubs handpick members to stand as

Tickets for the Car Club Showcase also grant access to the Aero Expo from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hilton Head Island Airport (general aviation), where attendees can enjoy not only the stunning aircraft but also the latest highperformance models from BMW, McLaren and Porsche. For convenience, a complimentary shuttle service will transport ticket holders between the Port Royal Golf Club and the Aero Expo at the airport. There will be no on-site parking available at the airport venue.

WINGS AND WHEELS

The Aero Expo on Nov. 2 at Hilton Head Island Airport takes guests on a journey through automotive and aviation history, showcasing vintage aircraft alongside modern airborne marvels. Paired with iconic classic cars and the latest models from BMW, McLaren and Porsche, this event highlights the evolution of engineering excellence on both land and air.

INVITED CLUBS

The Car Club Showcase on Saturday, Nov. 2, will feature cars from:

Alee Shriners Mobile Unit

Audi Club of NA

BMW CCA M Chapter

BMW CCA Sandlapper Chapter

Carolina Dreamers Car Club of Bluffton

The Classic Car & Truck Club of Beaufort

Coastal Empire Region PCA

Corvettes of Hilton Head

Ferrari Club of America

Heart of GA Corvair Club

Hilton Head VW Club

The Low Country Sports Car Club

Lowcountry Oyster & Motorcar

Mercedes Benz Club of NA

Moss Creek

Oglethorpe Driving Club

Palmetto Drivers Syndicate

Rolls-Royce Owners Club

Sun City

Three Rivers Region PCA (Columbia)

©HILTON HEAD ISLAND CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE & MOTORING FESTIVAL

A competition of elegance

tThe fairways of Port Royal Golf Club’s Planter’s Row Golf Course will come alive on Sunday, Nov. 3, for the grand finale of the festival — the 2024 Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance. Nearly 200 exceptional vehicles will grace the event, judged by 75 esteemed experts from across North America. Amid the elegance and history, only one will claim the prestigious title of Best of Show. Attendees will be immersed in the rich heritage of classic automobiles while marveling at today’s most impressive modern innovations.

“Approximately 30,000 wheels have graced the show field over the past 22 years, and that doesn’t include wheels on boats, motorcycles and planes,” Smith said. “On Sunday the show field transforms into the Concours d’Elegance, where some of the rarest, most extraordinary cars are showcased, judged and compete for top honors.”

This year’s Concours, running from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., will feature an impressive array of cars and motorcycles, including Ferraris, Jaguars, Mustangs, Porsches, American sports cars, rare English classics, open and closed European cars, Italian GTs, classic Japanese performance cars, pop culture vehicles, Cannonball Run motorcycles and more. The event will also celebrate the 125th anniversary of Packard and honor marque cars such as Bentley and Rolls-Royce.

The Life Exhibit: More Than Just Machines will be a captivating exhibit, embodying the spirit of motoring beyond the limits of the road. Meanwhile, On The Water: A Nautical Narrative will display a stunning selection of antique watercraft, offering a glimpse into the world of classic maritime craftsmanship. The thrilling Velocity Collector exhibit showcases high-performance supercars and favorites from the honoree's collection. Building on last year's excitement with Vin-Wiki founder Ed Bolian, this year’s exhibit promises another breathtaking lineup of speed and style.

2024 CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE CLASS LIST

Honored Marque: Bentley and Rolls-Royce (post-war)

Honored Marque: Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost

Honored Marque: Bentley (pre-war)

Honored Marque: Rolls-Royce Phantom and Small HP

125th anniversary of Packard

CCCA full classics

Brass era

Class of '64 (American cars of 1964)

60 years of Ford Mustang

Pop culture cars of the 50s & 60s

Classic Japanese performance

Open European 50s, 60s & 70s

Closed European 50s, 60s & 70s

Jaguar XK class

Rare English

American Sport

Micro cars: Co-presented Lane Motor Museum

Fast cars & big block

Radwood supercars (80s & 90s)

Italian GT cars of the 60s & 70s

Ferrari GT

Barn finds

Automotive orphans

Supercars 2000 to today

International prototypes

MOTORCYCLES

Cannonball Run motorcycles

British & European from the 50s, 60s & 70s

Pre-war American & European

BEST OF SHOW A 1935 Duesenberg SJ Convertible Victoria, proudly owned by Chip Cofer of Tucker, Georgia, was crowned the Best of Show winner at the 2023 Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance. Who will win the title in 2024?

1964 1/2 Ford Mustang 289 convertible

Motoring with purpose

aAttendees of the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance and Motoring Festival truly get value for their ticket purchase, knowing their contribution extends beyond the event itself. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the festival supports the education, inspiration and creativity of young people with aspirations in the automotive, aviation and mobility industries. The festival also strengthens the local community by backing youth programs and organizations that play a critical role in its success.

“It’s one of the biggest shows in the Southeast that focuses on everything motoring,” Smith said. “That’s very unique for an event of our scale. The Charitable Fund has donated more than a million dollars back to local charities, so the cost of your ticket goes right back into our community, while also funding scholarships in design and engineering that help put children on the path to careers in motoring. People don’t realize how influential South Carolina is. We have Volvo, BMW and a Michelin plant. Our youth don’t have to go to Detroit for engineering school — they can learn a lot right here in South Carolina. Whether they want to design cars, innovate them, conceptualize them or even become pilots, we’ve made it our mission to support those ambitions through scholarships.”

The Pinnacle Society, a membership organization dedicated to the festival’s longevity and charitable initiatives, provides critical support. With minimum contributions of $1,000, Pinnacle Society members help fund youth programs and scholarships. In return, they receive general admission tickets to the Car Club Showcase and Concours d’Elegance, along with access to an exclusive invitation-only dinner.

©ARNO DIMMLING

1928 Isotta Fraschini

The Good Life Starts With A Great Look

Festival notes

CAN’T MISS EVENT The Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance and Motoring Festival (Oct. 31-Nov. 3) is one of Hilton Head Island's premier annual events, attracting over 20,000 car enthusiasts each year. It’s the ultimate destination for motoring aficionados and a social scene where seeing and being seen is all part of the experience.

• There will be complimentary parking at the Hilton Head Island Public School Complex (70 Wilborn Rd.) for Saturday and Sunday’s events at the Port Royal Golf Club. Continuous shuttle service (with wheelchair access) will be provided from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. To park on site, you must be issued an event-parking hang tag. You can purchase individual parking hang tags with daily admission.

• Those staying at The Westin will have access to a shuttle throughout the day, running from the hotel to the Port Royal Golf Clubhouse.

• Complimentary bicycle parking is located on site at Port Royal Golf Club.

• At the golf course, be prepared to walk to view the majority of the event spanning several fairways, the driving range and the short-game practice area. There will be limited courtesy shuttle golf carts on property that run on a fixed path around the venue to assist guests. Attendees in need can bring or rent mobility scooters. A limited number of mobility units can be rented locally from Burke’s Main Street Pharmacy. They will assist in coordinating delivery and pick-up at the venue.

• Pets, large bags, backpacks and large purses will not be permitted past the ticketing gates. Diaper bags, strollers and camera bags will be allowed. Attendees will be permitted to bring chairs and blankets.

• There is no dress requirement. “It’s a casual and approachable event,” Smith said. “We want everyone to be comfortable. But we see a lot of really amazing style, even from our exhibitors who will dress the part of the era of their car, which is so fun. And we’ve seen a lot of our attendees style it out quite a bit, which is a neat aspect of the event as a whole, but we don’t have a dress code. Wear whatever is comfortable and feels right for the weather.”

• The festival is a rain or shine event.

“The collective efforts of multiple individuals during the whole process was impressive. and especially the top quality marketing.”

-Sellers & Clients for Life at 24 Ocean Point N

Chip Collins Listing Specialist, Broker-in-Charge

THE PRIDE OF THE INGRAM COLLECTION IS SET TO MAKE ITS HILTON HEAD DEBUT.

STORY BY LESLIE T. SNADOWSKY + PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE INGRAM COLLECTION

a All eyes on 'El Tigre'

As a fleet of rare, vintage and collector cars roars into Hilton Head for the 2024 Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival (Oct. 31 –Nov. 3), one vehicle is sure to grab attention: the long-nose, shorttail 1967 Porsche 906E “El Tigre,” courtesy of the Ingram Collection.

“Our ‘El Tigre’ has a black and bright yellow tape livery that looks like tiger stripes,” says Rory Ingram. “It was an important model in the Porsche race lineage, and we’re proud to be its caretakers. My brother, Cam, actually raced it at the Rennsport Reunion 7 at Monterey. It’s a pretty special car.” Rory and Cam Ingram, guardians of the Ingram Collection in Durham, North Carolina, oversee a priceless collection of Porsches originally started by their late father, Bob Ingram. Bob’s passion for Porsche ignited in the 1970s after a ride in a Porsche 911 S. Coming from humble beginnings, Bob eventually climbed the corporate ranks to become the CEO of GlaxoSmithKline and a venture capitalist, allowing him to realize his Porsche dreams in the 1990s.

“My dad got his first Porsche at 50 and never imagined owning two, let alone becoming a prominent collector,” Rory recalls. “You go through phases — from a hoarder to a collector, then to a connoisseur. The relationships you develop with each car, which was someone’s cherished possession for decades, make it feel like an adoption process.”

As the family’s Porsche collection grew, Bob and his wife, Jeanie, generously shared their cars at events and charity functions. Now Rory and Cam continue to honor their father’s legacy by showcasing the collection.

Rory keeps quiet about how many cars are in the Ingram Collection or its value, emphasizing that “quality, not

STRIPES OF VICTORY After suffering damage at Daytona, this Porsche 906E underwent extensive restoration and modifications, including the creative addition of yellow and black electrical tape to form its iconic tiger-stripe livery. Dubbed "El Tigre" and driven by its owner, Armando Capriles, the car went on to capture the Bolivian Championship in 1967. In 1969 "El Tigre" roared back to competition at the 12 Hours of Sebring, finishing 10th overall and securing third place in the two-liter prototype class.

FIRST-CLASS LANDSCAPE

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VI

FOR A CAUSE

October 9th

5-7pm

Proceeds to bene t Meals on Wheels

So Much More than a Meal!

Providing homebound older neighbors with not only hot nutritious meals, but also wellness checks and much needed social connections.

Enjoy wine tastings at participating merchants Special promotions, sales & in-store demos

music & more Tickets available online at

$15 per person

Limited tickets available day of event

at the 2024 Hilton Head Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival. Built at the Porsche factory in 1967, this specific chassis — 906-158 — is one of just four long-nose, short-tail fuel-injected 906Es, all originally designed for competitive racing.

quantity,” is their guiding principle. Among their prized possessions are original 356 models, all eight generations of 911s and numerous competition cars. Bob used to say, “The cars are the stars, but the people are what matter most,” a sentiment Rory carries forward by sharing the stories behind each car’s racing and ownership history.

“There were people who owned these cars before us, and there will be others after us,” Rory says. “Porsche is an iconic brand, probably the most widely raced in the world. It’s always been about performance, and that attracts people who value those things.”

In addition to managing the Ingram Collection, Rory runs the Ingram Driving Experience at Virginia International Raceway, offering private racing events, curated experiences and expert coaching.

“We have a fleet of GT4 Clubsports for rent, and we take out cars from our collection,” Rory explains. “We host small groups and corporate retreats, with special guests from the Porsche world. It’s a unique setting where professionals and novices can come together.”

Cam Ingram, a Porsche race car driver, has competed in prestigious events like the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and is the founder of Road Scholars, a Porsche sales, service, and restoration shop. His team brings the Ingram Collection’s vintage cars to shows around the world, including Pebble Beach and Amelia Island.

Despite its museum-quality curation, the Ingram family actively drives and shows their cars for maximum enjoyment, ensuring the collection remains intact for future generations. “My dad never liked to keep a ‘ship in a bottle,’” Rory adds.

As Porsche celebrates its 76th anniversary, the Ingrams’ focus has shifted toward GT models. “We’re very GT-focused right now — especially the GT3s and GT2s. We’re missing a couple of production cars, and if they come around with the right specs, we’ll be interested,” Rory says. He’s also on the hunt for the elusive limited-production 911 GT1 Strassenversion (street version) to add to their collection.

“We’re really excited to participate in the 2024 Hilton Head Motoring Festival & Concours d’Elegance,” Rory says. “At these shows, you always meet friends and make new ones. We’re looking forward to sharing ‘El Tigre’ with fellow aficionados.” LL

BELLY OF THE BEAST The Ingram Collection’s striking, tiger-striped 1967 Porsche 906E, famously known as "El Tigre," will take center stage

a The Cord that binds

STORY BY LESLIE T. SNADOWSKY

AMELIA EARHART'S LEGENDARY CAR IS MAKING ITS WAY TO HILTON HEAD, WHERE IT WILL BE SHOWCASED ALONGSIDE AN ICONIC AIRPLANE, CREATING A PERFECT PAIRING OF AVIATION AND AUTOMOTIVE HISTORY.

Amelia Earhart’s personal automobile will take center stage at the 2024 Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival, one of the island’s most highly anticipated annual events.

Earhart’s iconic 1937 Cord 812 Phaeton Convertible, which she once owned and drove, will be featured at the festival’s Flights & Fancy event on Nov. 1 and the Aero Expo on Nov. 2 at the Hilton Head Island Airport. This same car, famously captured in a photograph of Earhart just before her ill-fated 1937 flight over the Pacific Ocean, provides a unique glimpse into the legendary aviator’s life off the runway.

A LEGENDARY RIDE See aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart’s 1937 Cord 812

Phaeton Convertible at the Aero Expo on Saturday, November 2, part of the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival. Earhart reportedly loved this car because of its interior and exterior aerodynamic features.

FINAL PREPARATIONS

Amelia Earhart is shown sitting in the cockpit and checking equipment on her Lockheed Electra airplane in 1936. In July 1937 Earhart, her navigator and the airplane were lost over the Pacific Ocean.

The Cord, painted in Palm Beach desert tan and featuring a luxurious burgundy leather interior, was designed by renowned American automobile architect Gordon M. Buehrig. Its distinctive louvered, wraparound “coffin nose” grille and advanced front-wheel drive set it apart when it debuted at the 1935 New York Auto Show, where it was hailed for its cutting-edge design and high-end features.

Some speculate that Earhart’s admiration for the vehicle stemmed from its aerodynamic design. The car’s cockpit-like front seat and dashboard, along with aircraft-inspired disappearing headlights, reinforced its appeal to someone with a passion for flight.

“She did have a compass in the car, which is mounted above the dash,” says current owner Jack Boyd Smith, Jr. “It’s unique because it’s something she would’ve used in flight.”

The fully restored Cord, complete with period details like the ashtray and suicide knob, now resides in The JBS Collection based in Elkhart, Indiana. Smith notes that the car was inducted into the National Historic Vehicle Register in 2023 and was prominently displayed under glass on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., during the Cars at the Capital event.

Smith, whose collection boasts over 70 cars housed in a private museum, remains tight-lipped about the Cord’s current value but revealed that he once declined an eight-figure all-cash offer for the rare vehicle.

During the festival, Earhart’s Cord will be displayed alongside a 1938 Lockheed 12A airplane. The aircraft, known as the Electra Junior, was built as a commuter airliner, though its legacy extends far beyond. Earhart was piloting a twin-engine Lockheed 10E

©HILTON HEAD ISLAND CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE & MOTORING FESTIVAL

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happenings

Electra when she embarked on her illfated attempt to circumnavigate the globe. The 1938 12A model echoes her legacy in the skies.

“It was actually used more as a corporate airplane by all the oil companies and flown by people like Amelia Earhart and Howard Hughes,” explains owner David Marco. “It kind of epitomizes the deco era of aviation. It’s a beautiful airplane with a beautiful shape. Even by today’s standards, it’s a wonderfully built airplane with fabulous performance.”

Only 125 Electra Juniors were ever made, with production halting as Lockheed shifted to manufacturing aircraft for World War II. Marco’s plane, originally purchased by Phillips Petroleum in 1938, was restored to its original configuration, complete with the same wood, cabinetry and leather interior that defined its executive style.

“It was their corporate airplane based in Oklahoma,” Marco shares. “The interior was redone in the 60s, but we worked with Phillips Petroleum to bring it back to its original 1938 design.”

The restoration process for Marco’s Electra Junior took an impressive 10,300 hours, and the plane is still flown regularly.

“It’s very comfortable,” says Marco, noting its cinematic fame. “And it may look familiar.”

Lockheed’s Electra Junior made a memorable appearance in the classic film Casablanca, serving as the backdrop for Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman’s famous farewell scene.

At the festival, Marco’s plane and Smith’s 1937 Cord will together pay homage to a timeless era of design and engineering.

“I think it will be a fabulous pairing,” says Marco. “People will get to see the inside, and a few might even get a chance to go in it. I have nine planes in my collection, and I am fascinated by the romance and history of it all.” LL

NATIONAL TREASURE

Amelia Earhart’s 1937 Cord 812 Phaeton Convertible took center stage under glass on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. in 2023 as part of the Cars at the Capital event. See the car at this year’s Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival.

A HISTORIC PAIRING David Marco’s 1938 Lockheed 12A Electra Junior will be on display alongside Earhart’s 1937 Cord at the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival. A Lockheed 12 appeared as the French airliner in the climactic final scene from the 1942 film Casablanca.

©HILTON HEAD ISLAND CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE & MOTORING FESTIVAL

STRENGTHENING NONPROFITS

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry is excited to announce the opening of the Ekedahl Center for Nonprofit Excellence!

The center became a reality due to the generosity of Dave and Patty Ekedahl, and it builds on CFL’s commitment to nonprofits who provide programs and services to those most in need in our four-county service area.

The Ekedahl Center for Nonprofit Excellence offers a full slate of programs for nonprofit leadership, staff, and board members, including a year-long training program and various workshops.

To learn more about the Ekedahl Center for Nonprofit Excellence, visit cf-lowcountry.org or call 843-681-9100.

(From left, front row) Dave and Patty Ekedahl with daughter Anne. (Back row) CFL Board Chair Lynn Jennings Taylor and President & CEO Scott Wierman

happenings

Coastal Rhythms

When: Times vary, Now-Nov. 21

Where: JCostello Gallery at Redfish

Details: Artist Gerard Erley’s work will be displayed this month at Redfish. This collection showcases Erley’s deep connection to the natural world. jcostellogallery.com

May River Theatre events

Celebrate the spooky season with one of these chilling musical performances. For a complete schedule, visit mayrivertheatre.com

UPCOMING SHOWS

Rocky Horror Picture Show: October 18-19

Carrie The Musical: October 25-November 3

Forests/Facades

When: Times vary, Oct. 10-Dec. 31

Where: Coastal Lighting Studio

Details: Make an appointment to see this two-person exhibition of contemporary painting featuring the work of Keith Crowley and Thomas Flynn II. Attend the opening reception from 5-7 p.m., Oct. 10. coastallightingstudio.com

What the Constitution Means to Me

When: Times vary, Oct. 31-Nov. 10

Where: Lean Ensemble Theater

Details: This boundary-breaking play performed by Lean Ensemble breathes new life into our Constitution and imagines how it will shape the next generation of Americans. leanensemble.org

Arts & Culture

October Palmetto Bluff Artist in Residence

When: Times vary, Oct. 17-19

Where: FLOW Gallery + Workshop

Details: Clay Ross is this month’s featured artist. Hear his work or attend a workshop. palmettobluff.com

The Smiths… A Family Art Exhibition

When: 5-7 p.m., Oct. 25 Where: The Red Piano Art Gallery

Details: Join The Red Piano Art Gallery as they feature the paintings of Betty Anglin Smith, Jennifer Smith Rogers, Shannon Smith Hughes and the photography of Tripp Smith. redpianoartgallery.com

This is Not: Aldwyth in Retrospect

When: Oct. 16-Mar. 23

Where: Coastal Discovery Museum

Details: Check out rarely seen works of Hilton Head-based artist Aldwyth, and attend the opening reception from 5-7 p.m., Oct. 17. coastaldiscovery.org

30th Anniversary Fall Artist Show

When: 6-9 p.m., Oct. 11 & 12

Where: Endangered Arts Limited

Details: Artists will discuss their latest work, unveil new pieces and do live painting/sculpting during this two-night anniversary event. endangeredarts.com

Flow Fest

When: 2-6 p.m., Oct. 13

Where: Boathouse Lawn in Wilson Village in Palmetto Bluff

Details: Peruse an artisan market, indulge in tasty food and treats, and dance to Deas-Guyz at this music and arts festival on the May River. palmettobluff.com

Featured Artist: Carol Iglesias

When: Times vary, Oct. 22-Nov. 22

Where: Art League of Hilton Head

Details: View the work of Carol Iglesias this month during gallery hours and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance. Attend the opening reception from 5-7 p.m., Oct. 23. artleaguehhi.org

What Do You See?

When: Times vary, Oct. 6-Nov. 2

Where: SOBA Gallery

Details: Jane Capraro, also known as “JC Kuller,” is the Society of Bluffton Artists’ featured artist for October. The opening reception is from 5-7 p.m., Oct. 11. sobagallery.com

Recycled Art Contest

When: Oct. 25

Where: Port Royal Sound Foundation

Details: Use your imagination to bring awareness about keeping the Lowcountry clean. Submit your recycled art piece by October 25th. Winners will be announced on November 11. portroyalsoundfoundation.org

Our exciting 2024-2025 season kicks o this month with two Free Symphony Under the Stars concerts and the Orchestra Series.

SYMPHONY UNDER THE STARS “COUNTRY DIVAS”

MARTIN FAMILY PARK, BLUFFTON

(part of the Historic Blu ton Arts and Seafood Festival) FREE!

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2024, 7:30 PM

LOWCOUNTRY CELEBRATION PARK AT COLIGNY, HILTON HEAD ISLAND FREE!

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2024, 7:30 PM

FREE lawn sea�ng. LIMITED TABLE SEATING AVAILABLE. Call (843) 842-2055 for reserva�ons.

BRUCH AND TCHAIKOVSKY

OPENING WEEKEND

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2024

MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2024

John Morris Russell, Conductor

Melissa White, Violin

Mikhail Glinka Ruslan and Lyudmila Overture

Max Bruch Violin Concerto No. 1

Piotr Ilych Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 4

“White’s playing was breathtaking. I have no other words for the grace, precision, and warmth she brought to the stage.”

— MD Theater Guide

THE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2024

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2024

John Morris Russell, Conductor

Duke Ellington The River

Antonín Dvořák Symphony No. 9, “From The New World”

“Dvořák and Ellington represent the past, present and future of American music—their infectious rhythmic drive, soulful harmonies and richly nuanced orchestration de ne the American sound.”

— John Morris Russell, Music Director

Orchestra Series subscrip�ons and �ckets are available now. Visit hhso.org or call (843) 842-2055.

Charity & Community

Hilton Head Humane

Halloween Party

When: Noon-2 p.m., Oct. 27

Where: Hilton Head Humane Hilton Head Island Campus

Details: Meet adoptable pets, enjoy Halloween activities and refreshments, and support your local animal shelter at this fun Halloween party. hhhumane.org

Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival

When: Times vary, Oct. 1-20

Where: Locations vary

Details: Celebrate with activities showcasing locally harvested seafood and Lowcountry cuisine while highlighting the rich history and culture of the area. The celebration culminates with a juried fine art show and street fest Oct. 19-20. blufftonartsandseafoodfestival.org

Hounds on the Harbour

When: 10 a.m.-noon, Oct. 5

Where: Harbour Town

Details: Meet adoptable dogs at this Hilton Head Humane event featuring raffles, a DJ, activities and more. seapines.com

39th Annual Kiwanis Club of Hilton Head Chili Cookoff & Jeep Island

When: Noon-3 p.m., Oct. 12 Where: Lowcountry Celebration Park

Details: In this exciting annual event, chili cooks compete to earn awards, and winners donate cash prizes to youth causes of their choice–not to mention the jeep raffle, delicious food and more. hiltonheadkiwanis.com

The 14th Annual Italian Heritage Festival

When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 19

Where: Coastal Discovery Museum

Details: Don’t miss this annual event celebrating Italian culture with food and live entertainment. iachh.org

8th annual Sips & Seafood Party

When: 5-10 p.m., Oct. 18

Where: Hewitt Oaks

Details: Come together as a community to make a lasting difference for thousands of Lowcountry neighbors at this annual event benefiting Bluffton Self Help. blufftonselfhelp.org

Paws and Heroes: A Charitable Calendar Featuring Firefighters & Therapy Dogs

When: 6-8 p.m., Oct. 16

Where: Shellring Ale Works

Details: Don’t miss the Rebecca Bass calendar launch promoting care and compassion. Meet the firefighters and therapy dogs featured in the calendar, enjoy local craft beer, and purchase calendars before they sell out. seabassproperties.com

Halloween on the Harbour

When: 1:30-3:30 p.m., Oct. 27

Where: Harbour Town

Details: Celebrate Halloween with activities, games and trick-or-treating around Harbour Town. Showcase your costume with a Halloween fashion show starting at 2:30 p.m. seapines.com

Hilton Head Island

Concours d’Elegance

When: Times vary, Oct. 31-Nov. 3

Where: Locations vary

Details: Don’t miss this annual grand motoring festival, which features a different collection and automotive art form daily. hhiconcours.com

The team at Richard MacDonald & Associates has a lifelong love of the Hilton Head Island area ... and a lifelong passion for Lowcountry Real Estate. Looking to buy or sell? Contact our team today.

‘We have known Richard MacDonald for 10 years since we first moved to Hilton Head. Richard sold our first Hilton Head home in 2017 and was our buyer’s agent when we bought our next home. He was also our listing agent on its sale in 2024. We recommend him highly to anyone looking to buy or sell in the area. Richard’s knowledge and expertise are both excellent. Richard was always there to help with any requests or questions we had and guided us through the selling process expertly and efficiently. Richard is a pleasure to work with and we will miss his friendship and expertise as we move out of the area. — Seller, Hilton Head Island, SC

“We recently had the pleasure of working with Joey Doyle from Charter One Realty on the purchase of our vacation property. From start to finish, it was an absolute pleasure! From our initial conversations and throughout the whole process, Mrs. Doyle was professional. She was highly knowledgeable about the local market and made sure we always felt like a priority.” — Buyer, Bluffton, SC

“Sanders MacDonald did a great job finding exactly what we wanted in our price range. He was knowledgeable, patient, and available when we needed him. Sanders clearly understands the market and changing dynamics of the South Carolina lowcountry. He is a true local, born and raised. He sees things an average realtor might not. The buying process was very smooth and we couldn’t be happier!” — Buyer, Bluffton, SC

Our team truly believes that there’s no place like home ... and our hundreds of satisfied clients believe that there’s no team like Charter One Realty/Richard MacDonald & Associates.

Charity & Community

Crescendo 2024

When: Times vary, Oct. 15-Nov. 23 Where: Locations vary Details: This regional event highlights and showcases the vast array of arts, culture and history organizations and individual artists, performers and authors residing and working on Hilton Head Island. The opening celebration is on Oct. 15 at Shelter Cove Community Park. For a complete list of festival events, visit culturehhi.org

Songwriters in the Round

When: 6:30 p.m., Oct. 24 Where: The Hangar Details: This SC Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Foundation event features award-winning singer/songwriters and benefits arts education in South Carolina. scgsah.org

Night on the Sound

When: 6-9 p.m., Oct. 19

Where: Port Royal Sound Foundation Maritime Center Details: Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and music in the Maritime Center, followed by elegant four-course dining in the Weezie Educational Pavilion. portroyalsoundfoundation.org

Rock N Ribs

When: Times vary, Oct. 17-20 Where: Coligny Plaza Details: This four-day extravaganza promises an unparalleled celebration of world-class BBQ, electrifying rock music and a vibrant community of foodies and music lovers. rocknribshhi.com

Pumpkin Patch

When: 4-7 p.m., Oct. 18

Where: Shelter Cove Community Park

Details: Head to the pumpkin patch for a costume contest, bounce houses, games, train rides, concessions and, of course, pumpkins. islandreccenter.org

Coligny Halloween 2024

When: 4-7 p.m., Oct. 24

Where: Coligny Plaza

Details: Don’t miss Coligny Plaza’s annual trick or treating and costume contest, with stores staying open late for the occasion. colignyplaza.com

Bluffton Halloween Spooktacular Celebration

When: 3-7 p.m., Oct. 26

Where: Martin Family Park

Details: This Halloween event by Bear Foor Sports features a fun run, a Halloween golf cart parade and a block party with games, contests, live music, food trucks and more. bearfootsports.com

8 th Annual Food Festival

When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 19 Where: Gullah Museum Hilton Head Island

Details: Don’t miss Gullah Museum’s annual celebration of Gullah cuisine displaying unique and vibrant traditions that have evolved over centuries. gullahmuseumhhi.org

2024 Habersham Harvest Festival

When: Oct. 11-13

Where: Habersham Marketplace

Details: Set against the backdrop of a quaint, walkable village, this beloved event promises a weekend filled with family fun, local culinary delights and a vibrant array of artisan vendors. habershamharvestfestival.com

Spotlight Talent Night

When: 7 p.m., Oct. 19

Where: Main Street Theatre

Details: This evening will feature vocalists, dancers, musical theater performers, instrumentalists and actors ages 8th grade and older from Southern Beaufort County. isca-online.org

Family Focus Financial Group’s Grand Opening

When: 10 a.m., Oct. 25

Where: Family Focus Financial Group Bluffton (7 Carroll Court)

Details: Celebrate this grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, delicious bites and refreshments, giveaways and prizes, office tours and a meet and greet with the team. fffgonline.com

Food & Drink

Tap Takeover at Big Jim’s

When: 2-5 p.m., the first Friday of every month

Where: Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza

Details: The first Friday of each month brings a tap takeover of three Southern Barrel Brewery draft beers to Big Jim’s. palmettodunes.com

Wine events at Nunzio

Sip delicious wines, paired with delectable food prepared by chef Nunzio Patruno at one of these upcoming wine events. For more information, visit nunziohhi.com

UPCOMING EVENTS At the Heart of DuMol Wine Tasting: 4 p.m., Oct. 9 MASI Amarone Wine Dinner: 6:30 p.m., Oct. 30

Burgundy - Cru Beaujolais Wine Dinner

When: 6:30 p.m., Oct. 17

Where: The Harbour Town Clubhouse

Details: Join The Sea Pines Resort for a tour of Burgundy while exploring the 10 Crus of Beaujolais. seapines.com

Chappellet Wine Dinner at Montage Palmetto Bluff

When: 6 p.m., Oct. 22

Where: Montage Palmetto Bluff

Details: Don’t miss this 6-course wine dinner featuring the exceptional wines of Chappellet Winery from Napa Valley. montage.com/palmettobluff

Charlie’s Coastal Bistro events

Don’t miss one of these upcoming culinary events at one of the island’s best restaurants. Call 843-784-9277 to reserve your spot. charliesgreenstar.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

October 18: Burgundy Wine Dinner with Michael Corso Imports

October 26: Cooking Class with Chefs Josh & Joe: Shrimp and Grits & Butterscotch Pudding

Best Decision Ever.

Top 1% Hilton Head and Mainland Real Estate Team 11 years in a row. #1 Hilton Head Plantation Real Estate Team 28 years in a row. #1 Moss Creek Real Estate Team 13 years in a row.

Lawrence Taylor • 843.338.6511

Dick Patrick • 843.384.4020

Rob Moore • 843.384.5118

Kim France • 513.476.2658

“Lawrence was a fantastic Realtor for us from beginning to end. His expertise in pricing our home to the multiple o ers and ultimate sale within days was spot on. e Team worked awlessly and his recommendations from contract to closing were great. We highly recommend Lawrence and the Patrick & Taylor Team as a Realtor and Team who truly care and will get the job done the way you want & expect. Great experience working with Lawrence and the Team!” — Clay & Susan M

#1 Ranked Real Estate Company in the Lowcountry

happenings THE MAGIC OF ROTARY

ROTARY FOR THE KIDS!

Food & Drink

Cassandra’s Kitchen Store demos

Join local chefs and artisans as they show you how to prepare decadent foods in one of these upcoming demos. cassandraskitchen.com

UPCOMING DEMOS

Southern Conserve Demo: Oct. 7

Knife Sharpening with Bill Jankoski: Oct. 9

Fall Entertaining with Cranberries and Regina Hild: Oct. 22

Hardee Greens Demo: Oct. 22

Hilton Head Distillery Cocktail Classes

Take a mixology class (or two) to learn how to shake up creative sips. Classes are from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Hilton Head Distillery. hiltonheaddistillery.com

UPCOMING CLASSES

Boos & Booze Cocktail Class: Oct. 10 & 24

European Wine Dinner

When: 6 p.m., Oct. 10

Where: Sprout Momma

Details: Experience a taste of Europe with an importer and food with European flare. sproutmomma.com

Orin Swift Wine Dinner

When: 6-9 p.m., Oct. 10

Where: Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar

Details: Don’t miss the first wine dinner this fall at Alexander’s. Enjoy beautiful wines, spectacular food and lively conversation. alexandersrestaurant.com

Oyster Roasts

When: 1-4 p.m., Saturdays starting Oct. 12

Where: Coast, Oceanfront Dining

Details: The Sea Pines Resort hosts this popular seasonal event with a special menu of fresh, local and roasted on-site oysters from Maggioni Oyster Company on St. Helena Island. seapines.com

Upcoming events at Salty Dog

Here are the October events at The Salty Dog Cafe. For a complete list, visit saltydog.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

October 5: Baconfest

October 12: Hushpuppyfest

October 18, 19, 25 & 26: Land’s End Tavern

Transforms into Captain Jamar’s Sunken Pirate Ship

October 19: Shrimp Celebration

happenings

Food & Drink

TCL culinary classes

Head to the Culinary Institute of the South for a cooking class, and expand your knowledge of cooking techniques and recipes worldwide. Classes are from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. tcl.edu

UPCOMING CLASSES

October 11: The Mediterranean Way: AntiInflammatory Foods for Better Gut Health

October 26: Karma Kitchen: Indian Dishes for Entertaining

Tasty Tuesday and Thirsty Thursday Wine Tastings

When: 5-7 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays

Where: Rollers Wine & Spirits

Details: Enjoy a wine tasting with live music and small bites led by Rollers’ certified sommeliers. The tasting will feature 4-6 new wines and some familiar favorites. Call 843-842-1200 to reserve your spot.

Murder Mystery Adventure on Daufuskie Island

When: Times vary, Oct. 26 & 27

Where: The Sportsman at Melrose

Details: Don’t miss the chance to experience suspense and fun on picturesque Daufuskie Island at this captivating scavenger hunt, murder mystery game and delicious food and drink. sportsmanatmelrose.com

Suds & Sunshine

When: 4 p.m., Oct. 17

Where: Nectar Farm Kitchen

Details: Come support Pockets Full of Sunshine at this fundraising event featuring live music, delicious bites, merchandise and more. nectarfarmkitchen.com

Black Stallion Wine Dinner

When: 6-9 p.m., Oct. 12

Where: Lulu Kitchen

Details: Enjoy a five-course meal, paired with wines from Black Stallion, with speaker Cameron Pember and special guest Jeffery Keefer from VIVID Galleries. lulukitchen-hhi.com

Lectures & Classes

Restorative Medicine Seminar

When: Noon-1 p.m., Tuesdays

Where: Fraum Center for Restorative Health

Details: Attend a free education event on the latest advancements in restorative medicine with a complimentary lunch. Learn how you can help your body heal itself with highly effective, non-invasive solutions to chronic pain. fraum.com

Tuesday talks

Learn from the experts on a variety of topics including history, ecology and culture at Port Royal Sound Foundation. Each Tuesday Talk is from 3-4:30 p.m. at the Maritime Center. portroyalsoundfoundation.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

October 15: Andy Jones: How Native Landscapes can Benefit your Community

October 29: Hannah Hoover: Indigenous Women in Colonial South Carolina

November 5: Dawn Brut: Horseshoe Crabs – A Living Fossil

SOBA Art Classes & Workshops

Head to the SOBA Art School to learn a new artistic skill. Sobagallery.com has a complete list of workshops and more information.

UPCOMING CLASSES

Painting Wet Reflections: 2-Day Transparent Watercolor Workshop: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 16 & 17

Composition/Value Acrylic Painting: 12:30-3:30 p.m., Oct. 20 & 21

Coastal Discovery Museum events

The Coastal Discovery Museum presents a wide variety of classes for any interest. Here are some of our favorites from the Discovery Night at the Museum series this month. coastaldiscovery.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

Crafting Suet Cakes: 5:30 p.m., Oct. 17

Pumpkins, Posies & Prosecco: 5:30 p.m., Oct. 24

Indigo Exploration: 5 p.m., Nov. 7

Let’s Talk Cancer Forum

When: 3-5 p.m., Oct. 15 Where: St. Gregory the Great Church Details: Join the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center oncology team for an afternoon panel discussion about cancer and cutting-edge treatments. eventbrite.com

Art League Hilton Head Island classes

Learn a new skill and unleash your creativity with one of these art classes at the Art League Academy on Cordillo Parkway. For a complete list of classes, visit artleaguehhi.org

UPCOMING CLASSES

Color & Texture in the Pastel Landscape: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 11-13

Finding Delight in Color: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 16-18

Colors of the Lowcountry & Beyond: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 26

Farmers and Art Markets

Enjoy the local flavors of the Lowcountry with some of these regular farmers and art markets:

UPCOMING MARKETS

Bluffton Farmers Market: Noon-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

Forsythe Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturdays, Savannah

The Saturday Market: 4-6 p.m., Saturdays, The Bridge Collective on Calhoun Street

Beaufort First Friday: 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

Farmers & Makers Market: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesdays, The Shops at Sea Pines Center

Wednesday Market: 3-6 p.m., Wednesdays, Sprout Momma

Habersham Farmers Market: 3-6 p.m., Fridays, Habersham Marketplace in Beaufort Bluffton Night Bazaar: 5-8 p.m., Oct. 3 at Burnt Church Distillery Hilton Head Night Bazaar: 5-8 p.m., Oct. 19, The Bank HHI

Palmetto Bluff Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Oct 9 & 23

Roberto Coin Trunk Show at Forsythe Jewelers

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 17-19 Where: Forsythe Jewelers

Details: Join the team at Forsythe Jewelers for an exclusive Roberto Coin Trunk Show as they showcase the elegant designs and fine craftsmanship of the legendary Italian jewelry designer. forsythejewelers.biz

Wine Down Wednesday for a Cause

When: 5-7 p.m., Oct. 9 Where: Village at Wexford

Details: Shop, drink wine and support Meals on Wheels with live music, in-store demos and wine tastings at participating merchants. $15. villageatwexford.com

Old Town Bluffton Trick-or-Treat

When: 3-7 p.m., Oct. 24 Where: Old Town Bluffton

Details: Wear your favorite costume, and collect stamps and candy at each Old Town Bluffton business. Turn in your stamped card and be entered to win a special gift basket. shopoldtownbluffton.com

Sip and Shop

When: 3-7 p.m., Oct. 11 & 12 Where: Maggie & Me

Details: Celebrate Maggie and Me’s four-year anniversary with shopping and a little wine. Check the Maggie & Me Old Town Bluffton Facebook page for details.

Island Child’s 40th Anniversary

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 25-26 Where: Island Child

Details: Celebrate 40 years of Island Child with special treats and more. islandchild.com

Scan

October races

Sign up for one of these October races, and support a great cause. UPCOMING RACES

Run Forrest Run 5K: 8 a.m., Oct. 5, Best Western Sea Island Inn

Memory Matters’ Move Your Mind 5K: 8 a.m., Oct. 12, Marriott’s Grande Ocean

Flying Frog 5K: 7 a.m., Oct. 12, Beaufort Executive Airport

Bluffton Oyster Run 5K/10K: 8 a.m., Oct. 19, Oyster Factory Park

Zombie Mile: 2:30 p.m., Oct. 26, Martin Family Park

Yoga Class at Moor Spa

When: 6-7 p.m., Tuesdays Where: Moor Spa Hilton Head

Details: Enjoy slow flow and stretch yoga with local treasure Jennie Garcia at Moor Spa. Call 843-681-6060 to reserve your spot. moorespa.com

Palmetto Bluff Conservancy events

With a vast outdoor classroom at its fingertips, the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy team facilitates tours, classes and workshops, programs, research and field trips to promote conservation. Check the website for a complete list of events. palmettobluff.com/conservation UPCOMING EVENTS

Bat Week: Bats of the Lowcountry: 5:30-6:30 p.m., Oct. 24

Bat Week: Bat Walk: 6:30-8:30 p.m., Oct. 24

Brown Bag Lunch: Ghost Stories of the Bluff: Noon-1 p.m., Oct. 30

Grace Social Cruises

Palmetto Bluff’s beloved 1913 motor yacht, Grace, is available for regularly scheduled group cruises and private charters, all of which are open to the public. thegraceclub.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sunset Social Cruise: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Oct. 11

Ghost Stories Cruise with First Mate and The Grace Club Historian, Gray Stahlman: 5-7 p.m., Oct. 26

HBF Fall Festival of Houses & Gardens

When: Oct. 19-20 Where: Locations vary

Details: This annual Historic Beaufort Foundation event is the perfect chance to experience Beaufort’s extraordinary architecture as property owners share their private homes and gardens. historicbeaufort.org

happenings

Music & Entertainment

Regular live music venues

Life is better with music, so why not enjoy live music every day of the week? These are some of our favorite local spots with regular live music this month. Check their websites and Facebook pages for details.

DAILY LIVE MUSIC VENUES

Brother Shucker’s

Coast, Oceanfront Dining

FISH Casual Coastal Seafood

Frosty Frog

Harbourside

Kind of Blue

Luther’s Rare & Well Done

Quarterdeck

Ruby Lee’s

Scott’s Fish Market

Skull Creek Boathouse

The Boardroom

The Jazz Corner

The Salty Dog Cafe

The Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek

The Sandbar Beach Eats

The Studio

Tiki Hut

OTHER MUSIC VENUES

A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant (Mondays-Fridays)

Big Bamboo Cafe (Mondays-Saturdays)

Black Marlin Bayside Grill & Hurricane Bar (Wed-Sat)

Bluffton Oyster Co. Family Seafood House (Fri & Sat)

Burnt Church Distillery (Thursdays-Saturdays)

Captain Woody’s Bluffton (Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays)

Carolina Crab Company (Sundays)

Celeste (Fridays & Saturdays)

Cheap Seats Tavern 2 (Fridays)

Chophouse 119 (Fridays)

Deano’s Wood-Fired Grille (Tuesdays, Thursdays-Saturdays)

Dunes House Oceanfront Bar & Grill (Mondays-Fridays)

Fishcamp on Broad Creek (Tuesdays-Sundays)

Grooby’s, Too (Sundays)

Hilton Head Brewing Co. (Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays)

Hilton Head Tavern (Mondays & Tuesdays)

Island Winery (Fridays)

Jarvis Creek General Store (Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays)

Lincoln & South Brewing Company (Wednesdays-Sundays)

Local Pie (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays)

Lucky Beach Bar + Kitchen (Fridays)

Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar (Fridays & Sundays)

Nectar Farm Kitchen in Old Town Bluffton (Fridays-Sundays)

Pomodori Too! (Mondays & Wednesdays)

Red Fish (Tuesdays-Saturdays)

Reilley’s Grill & Bar (Wednesdays-Fridays)

Rollers Wine & Spirits (Tuesdays & Thursdays)

San Miguel’s (Thursdays-Saturdays)

Santa Fe Cafe: (Tuesdays-Saturdays)

Sundown Saloon (Saturdays)

The Rooftop Bar at Poseidon (Wednesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays)

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa (Every 3rd Friday)

Tio’s Latin American Kitchen Bluffton (Fridays & Sundays)

UnCorked Wine, Bar, Food, and Music (Tuesdays-Saturdays)

Zunzibar (Mondays-Thursdays

Fall Music & Taste on the Harbour

When: 6-9 p.m., now-Oct. 17

Where: Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

Details: Head to the Neptune Statue, and enjoy the best local bands with delicious food and drinks. sheltercovehiltonhead.com

MUSIC LINEUP

October 3: Deas-Guyz

October 10: Target the Band & Headliner Horns October 17: Deas-Guyz

Bob Masteller’s Jazz for All Ages

When: Times vary, Oct. 13-14

Where: Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island

Details: Enjoy award-winning jazz while supporting the Junior Jazz Foundation at this annual music festival. For a list of performances, visit jazzforallages.com

HHSO concerts

Our local orchestra has an extraordinary number of events this month as they open the 2024-2025 orchestra season, welcome back piano competition winners and celebrate Crescendo 2024 with Symphony Under the Stars concerts. For details, visit hhso.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

Grunge to Grace - Courtney Cutchins Album Release Party: 7:30 p.m., Oct. 5, SoundWaves Arianna & Robin: 7 p.m., Oct. 12, SoundWaves

Symphony Under the Stars - Country Divas: 7:30 p.m., Oct. 17 & 18, Martin Family Park & Celebration Park Bruch and Tchaikovsky: 4 p.m., Oct. 20 & 7:30 p.m., Oct. 21, First Presbyterian Church

Kurt Thomas

When: 6:30 p.m., Oct. 17 & 18 Where: Holy Tequila

Details: Award-winning country artist from Atlanta, Kurt Thomas, is performing again at Holy Tequila this month. holytequila.com

Tony Starlight Double Feature: Ole Blue Eyes and Dino

When: 6 p.m., Oct. 6 Where: SoundWaves

Details: This month’s Coastal Home Supper Club dinner and cabaret series features Tony Starlight and supper from Skillets. hhso.org

Fun with the Fox

When: 6-8:30 p.m., Oct. 9

Where: The Shops at Sea Pines Center

Details: Don’t miss this annual benefit concert featuring Deas-Guyz to benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation and help find a cure for Parkinson’s disease. funwiththefox.com

BravoPiano! Recital Series: Anthony Ratinov

When: 7:30 p.m., Oct. 25 Where: SoundWaves

Details: The opening concert for Hilton Head International Piano Competition’s 2024-25 BravoPiano! Recital Series features works by Schumann, Chopin and Schubert performed by pianist Anthony Ratinov. hhipc.org

Fabulous Local Italian Food & Wine & Fun Entertainment

happenings

SAVANNAH EVENTS

October 8: Teddy Swims at Johnny Mercer Theatre

October 11-13: Mustangs in Historic Savannah at the Savannah Convention Center

October 20: Locally Made Savannah Market & Renegade Paws Rescue Adoption Event at Locally Made Savannah

October 25-27: Crafts on the River at River Street

October 26-November 2: 2024 SCAD Savannah Film Festival

Fall Southern Estates and Collections Public Exhibition

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 23-25 Where: Everard Auctions & Appraisals

Details: This auction features fine and decorative art from various southern estates and collections. Attend the preview reception from 5-7 p.m., Oct. 22. The live online auction is from Oct. 10-31. everard.com

SAVE THE DATE

November 1: Bluffton Music Series at Buckwalter Place Amphitheater Park

November 2: The Petals & Stars Pup Tank at the Hilton Garden Inn on Hilton Head

November 2: Swing Bridge 5K at Best Western Sea Island

November 2: 3rd Annual Vintage Bike Show at Savannah Harley-Davidson

November 3: 3rd Annual Bike Bluffton at various locations

November 3: Holiday Open House at Pyramids

November 3: Hilton Head Island Half & Quarter Marathon

November 3: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Walk at Oyster Factory Park

November 4: 35th Anniversary Open House at the Hilton Head Island Computer Club

November 4: Southern Conserve Demo at Cassandra’s Kitchen Store

November 4: Tee It Up For Life Golf Classic at the Country Club of Hilton Head

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.

TEDxHiltonHead SHIFT Happens

When: 2-5 p.m., Nov. 9 Where: Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

Details: Learn from an inspiring group of top local and national speakers at this thought-provoking event filled with insight shared by today’s movers and shakers – and watch how SHIFT happens. tedxhiltonhead.com

Wag-O-Ween

When: Oct. 26-27 Where: Downtown Savannah and Savannah’s Starland District

Details: Don’t miss this annual family- and pet-friendly fundraising event where humans and animals alike dress up in Halloween costumes and follow their event maps to over 100 businesses to get dog treats and goodies. In 2023 over $100K returned to community efforts and local rescues. wagoween.org

Life is what you make it

“Though pied-billed grebes may resemble ducks, they are not closely related. Their long, lobed toes set them apart from their web-footed counterparts. These skilled nesters create floating homes from aquatic vegetation, perfectly suited for life on the water. While pied-billed grebes are common migratory birds across much of North America, many choose to remain year-round in the wetlands and marshes of the Lowcountry, finding a permanent haven amidst the tranquil waters.”

— GWEN CALLAS-MILLER, HILTON HEAD ISLAND

Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

Roberto Coin Trunk Show | Thursday - Saturday, October 17-19, 10 AM - 5 PM Enjoy a complimentary gift with your Roberto Coin purchase.

VENETIAN PRINCESS