Skirt Magazine July 2019 Explore Your World

JULY| 2019

It’s Summertime: Explore Your World

Discover Deeper Meaning Go with the Flow

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under the skirt Never would I have thought I’d be sharing these words of gratitude and exhilaration with you as the owner of a publication that continually elicits the response, “I love Skirt magazine!” Taking the helm of the magazine during its 25th anniversary commemoration is by far one of my proudest moments. My pledge is to make you proud of the work we all do together for a future that will be miraculous.

The last 25 years have been a springboard of strength training exercises for women as we navigated an unruly obstacle course to advance women’s economic and social empowerment. We all know that it takes muscle fatigue to get stronger, and no weight can be too great for us to carry together. We are an endless source of the powerful, natural will of this universe. We have taken bold and innovative steps setting a new course of action for gender equality and respect in both our domestic lives and the workforce. We have made our mothers feel righteous and dignified and our daughters feel safe and uninhibited.

Kudos to the Skirt team members who have eloquently and seamlessly passed the baton of inspiration and fine journalism, covering 25 years of growing pains as well as ultimate delight.

We are an amazing group of women brought together in Charleston, but expand globally through our hospitality, tourism, and media presence.

We are stronger than ever together, on the path to our highest good.

Since we desire to offer a compelling ear to our Skirt community, we indeed are here to listen! Please feel free to share your heart with us as we take this journey into the next 25 years together!

Spiritually Speaking,

Paula Dezzutti

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CEO/OWNER Paula Dezzutti paula@holycitypublishing.com PUBLISHER Thomas J. Giovanniello, Jr. thomas@holycitypublishing.com ART DIRECTOR Laura Staiano laura@skirt.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Betsy Padilla EDITORIAL INTERN Raegan Whiteside raegan@holycitypublishing.com INTEGRATED ACCOUNT MANAGER Whitney Brenkus whitney@skirt.com PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Caroline Knopf, Erin Turner, Daniel Velasco CONTRIBUTORS Dena J. DiOrio, Taylor DuVall, Lorna Hollifield, Kate Ledbetter, Helen Mitternight, Angie Mizzell, Allyson Sutton, Shelley Hill Young BUSINESS MANAGER Cassaundra Tebben cass@skirt.com DISTRIBUTION C&R Marketing, Tina Tartaglia

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Skirt is published monthly and distributed free throughout the greater Charleston area.

Subscriptions are available through www.skirt.com. Subscription rates are $24.95 for 12 issues. Back issues may be obtained by contacting the Skirt offices. Back issues are $5.99.

All contents of this magazine, including without limitation the design, advertisements, art, photos and editorial content as well as the selection, coordination and arrangement thereof, is Copyright© Holy City Publishing, LLC. All rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Postage paid at Charleston, S.C., and additional mailing offices. Skirt is a registered trademark of Holy City Publishing, LLC. Skirt and skirt.com are licensed under the authority of Morris Media Network. Printed in the United States.

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JULY | 2019

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contents IN EVERY ISSUE

F E AT U R E S

Skirt Forward! 12 A Woman’s Work 6

By Raegan Whiteside Cloistered and Contemplative

By Dena J. D’Orio

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Let Your Love Light Shine

By Kate Ledbetter

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Summer Fashion: Adventure Awaits

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Skirt Community

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Skirt Books 24 Men in Skirts 26 Skirt Wellness 28 Skirt Table

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Skirt Essay 32

Skirt Calendar 34 Surf Sisters 20

By Taylor DuVall Skirt Social 36 Don’t Skirt the Issue 39

on the cover PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLINE KNOPF

Styled by Alexandra Munzel Set Design/Props by Meredith Giltner of Polished Flair Model: Chloe with Fenton Models NYC Production by Jacqueline Lawrence of inventivEVENTS Hair by Mac McAbee of Coven HairCraft Make-up by Elina Mille of Bellelina Studio Photo Assistants: Blake Shorter & Ashley Stand Production Assistant: Whitney Gumpert Retouching by Camera Works, Inc.

On Chloe: Golden Goose dress, Hampden Clothing, $1005; LOVAT&GREEN scarf, Fieldshop, $125; Parts of Four choker and bracelet, Haven’s; CYDWOQ sandals, Out of Hand

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skirt . | july 2019 5

Fiber artist Kristy Bishop shares her passion and reminds us to slow down and appreciate the process.

By Raegan Whiteside

A Woman’s Work

T

he upcoming visiting artist at the Gibbes Museum of Art (July 8 - Aug. 9) is Kristy Bishop, a young and vibrant fiber artist and Charleston native. I recently had the opportunity to interview Bishop, and even over the phone you could feel her passion and enthusiasm for her art and the strong message she wants to send through her work. Besides nurturing her dedication to weaving, dyeing and corsetry, she teaches in and around Charleston with summer camps, classes and workshops for adults and kids.

During our interview, Bishop discussed where she learned her skills as a fiber artist, what her upcoming project and residency at the Gibbes is all

ber was Intro to Costume, so I took that there. I did a school exchange program in Buffalo, New York and they had a fibers program there, so that’s where I got my first taste of weaving and dyeing.

Skirt: I don’t really hear a lot about corsetry and weaving. I feel like those are two very different things.

KB: Yeah, yeah they are. [laughter]

Skirt: Was the exchange program where you learned all of it then?

KB: No, that was just a very, very intro. Everything else, like all the natural dye stuff, I’m selftaught. I love research and read books and online articles. For weaving, I took a class at Penland School of Craft in North Carolina and one at John C. Campbell [Folk School in North Carolina]. Those are craft schools where you can take

Skirt: Is there one that you enjoy more between the two?

KB: Probably weaving. I feel like I lean towards that a little more because I like it better than sewing.

When I did the corsets it was with 701 Center for Contemporary Arts in Columbia. I had dedicated time to do it in a studio and a live work space. It was way more productive to do because I didn’t have to stop and go to work or stop and do all these other normal things in everyday life. I was just living and working there. Whereas with weaving, I can take breaks, jump back into it, step away—I think it’s a little more conducive [to everyday life]. With the corsets, I want to actually do some more [like I had at the Charleston Museum show]. I would love to revisit and make some more.

“ [The project will] touch on the value of labor and labor in time, and how something that’s utilitarian automatically is devalued rather than something that is considered a piece of art...” about, the feminsit messages found in her artwork, her teaching career and what her definition of a fiber artist is.

Skirt: You are a College of Charleston graduate; is that when you started getting into corsetry, weaving, dyeing, etc?

Kristy Bishop: No, actually there is not a whole lot of curriculum at [The College] in fiber arts, unfortunately. The closest I could get to any fi-

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KRISTY WEARING HER HAND WOVEN CROPPED TUNIC

classes that are one week, two weeks, and eight weeks. I learned a lot about weaving up there.

Then, I just kept troubleshooting and weaving, until every time I do another warp I get better, or have gotten better. With the corsetry, I knew how to sew already. I just followed some patterns and just did it. [laughter] It’s kind of ambitious because sewing is not what I primarily do, you know, as often as a person that is considered a seamstress or a tailor.

Skirt: Can you describe your project that will be showcased at the Gibbes?

KB: I’ll have my loom there and primarily I will be weaving. I’m going to be doing woven-in cloth that transforms from artwork and tapestry into actual fabric and becomes wearable pieces. [The project will] touch on the value of labor and labor in time, and how something that’s utilitarian automatically is devalued rather than something that is considered a piece of art. I’ll be making artwork that, instead of being a short 2-foot or 3-foot long tapestry—it’ll start out like that, then grow and I’ll

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continue that cloth and make actual fabric.

During the residency, after I weave it and take it off the loom, that’s when I want to play around with draping and installation, and how I’ll present it. Some of it I want to be draped to go from art to fabric cloth [so I can] show people that [the process] is all very fluid. And then some of it I want to actually turn into garments.

Another thing that I’m doing right now that has to do with the residency is in the Gibbes store. For every visiting artist, they feature limited edition work that is related to the residency.

I’m weaving some crop-top tunics which will be debuting right when my residency starts.

Skirt: Have you ever done anything like that? Weaved pieces to be sold and worn during an exhibit?

KB: No, I haven’t. It’s something I’ve wanted to do, so this is obviously a great opportunity to actually do it and have [the pieces] somewhere to be seen and sold. There will be three—at least three right now—that I’m actually finishing up weaving today.

Then I’ll shake them off tomorrow and sew them together. They are hand-woven, hand-sewn—some of the yarn is naturally dyed, some of it is synthetic-like metallic—so, it’s a mix. Like, the only thing I didn’t do is spin the yarn, essentially. [laughter] Skirt: A lot of your work has feminist ties and messages in them. Has this always been a passion of yours? Or is this something you wanted your art to represent and reflect?

KB: Well, with fiber art in general, for a lot of people, it’s associated with women’s work. Even in the past, a lot of really famous female artists couldn’t, for instance, go to school and paint. They were only allowed to weave. For some reason that was deemed okay. So, weaving and textiles and fibers, at least in the western world, has always been a strong part of women’s work. And I don’t think that’s a bad thing. I like doing it because of the repetition and watching the time pass as it grows. Even the colors I use, they’re supposed to use a lot of pinks and I love pink, but I think I like pink, too, because it’s a very fleshy color of the body and obviously the female parts.

Even the tassels reference an almost gaudiness, but there’s also burlesque and going between what’s modest and what’s not, what’s appropriate and what’s not, and how fluid all that is.

That’s another thing I want to do [at the Gibbes]. As I weave this cloth and fabric and make some of it into tunics and garments, [I want to] play on those rules of modesty, essentially, and how clothing is used for that—for good and bad, I guess.

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Weaving is a slow art.

It’s really wonderful and beautiful. Essentially, [I want to] get people to appreciate cloth and fabric and see how cloth is made. Like, actually see a loom, because I don’t think many people have ever really seen a loom or watched one in action or understand the basic construction of clothing, so they don’t have a huge appreciation for it. And obviously we live in this culture of fast fashion, and [getting] the cheapest thing.

[But] just because it’s cheap, there’s still [the people who make it, putting in] time—everyone’s time is important and you can’t really put a price on it, even though we do. So just getting people to understand the cost of clothing and how much work goes into it and how it’s made [is important to me]. And, obviously, most clothes around the world are made by marginalized groups, people from poor countries, kids and obviously women. So I think, essentially, [the goal is] getting people to appreciate [cloth and fabrics] and appreciate this art form.

Skirt: Would you say your target audience is the public in general?

KB: Yeah, I think the public. It’s kind of broad, but I think [my audience is] just anybody. I would really like anybody to have an appreciation and see how fabric is made.

Skirt: A little off topic, but you do a lot of teaching and workshops as well?

KB: Yeah, that’s mostly what I do. I teach as a partner with Engage and Creative Minds, so I do art integration. I’ll do a week long weaving lesson that’s mass focus where we do fractions and area and perimeter and measuring—because this is all the stuff I do to prep a weaving anyway—so I implement that into activities with kids in public schools. I teach [the history of] indigo [as] social studies in schools, and I teach that for adults as well, mostly at Wild Dunes. I teach natural dye workshops, [which is] usually put towards the scientific method theory. So, I take what I do and then I go teach a whole grade level. Then, this summer, I’m teaching four summer camps, one of which is at the Gibbes. It’s a textile camp that’s influenced by the Black Refraction show up in the gallery that they just opened. That

will be for kids from ages 10-14. I have three or four more spots still left in that class.

I’m also on the South Carolina Artist Roster for the arts commission and I can go into schools where teachers have gotten grants and teach. It’s funded by the arts commission and endowment for the arts. So yeah, I teach a lot. [laughter] I’m teaching a weaving class at the Gibbes too, for adults, Intro to Weaving, on table top tapestry looms. Through that I’ll also give a demo on my big loom.

Skirt: I guess I should’ve started with this question, but we can just end with it. What does a fiber artist do, exactly?

KB: Like, how do you define it?

Skirt: Yeah.

KB: In my opinion, a fiber artist is anyone that works with textiles, paper, sculpture—there’s so many realms. You could sew and make sculpture or clothing—you’re a fiber artist. You could do embroidery, cross-stitch, weaving, knitting, crochet, there’s so many different facets—which I don’t even know how to do all that stuff. It’s a really fun field because it’s one of those fields where you get so excited about learning new techniques and it’s not limiting at all.

I went to [College of Charleston] for painting.

When I began school I was like, 18, and graduated at 21. I was really young and painting was all I knew. When I started there I didn’t know I wanted to do fiber. By my final year I was sewing on photographs and playing around with that. When I graduated I still did some painting but I never really liked painting representationally or narrative wise. I always felt if there was a canvas I had to put a picture on it. And abstract painting does not come naturally to me. I felt like every time I would paint something like that it was just stupid looking. [laughter] But, [with] textiles, it’s not paint. You don’t have to use it to make something represent something in real life. The material itself, for me, automatically pushes me to be more abstract in general and [I’m] not worried about it looking like something or telling a story necessarily. You know, it can represent a feeling or, like for me, the process is important.

The making of it is the most important part and that’s why I love it. I like making stuff that doesn’t have to look like things that exist. I know painting can do that too, but painting wasn’t for me. For textiles, once I dipped my toes into it, I never looked back. I don’t paint anymore but I don’t miss it. I just really love working with fibers.

skirt . | july 2019 7

Cloistered

Contemplative

A DAY TRIP TO MEPKIN ABBEY

O

ne can learn a great deal on how to live a more simple and fulfilling life from monks, I found one lazy Saturday afternoon, as I treated my mother to a day trip to Mepkin Abbey in Berkeley County.

About an hour’s drive north of Charleston, the Abbey is situated on the former Mepkin Plantation, skirting the banks of the Cooper River.

Home to a small community of Roman Catholic monks living in accordance to the Rules of St.

Benedict, known as Trappists, they live mostly in solitude, silence, and in meditative study, quietly and communally in search of God. The monks rise early at 3 a.m. to begin their daily ritual of prayer, meditation, scripture readings, agricultural work, and hosting guests by way of tours, retreats and lectures.

I was in search of the famed Mepkin Abbey shiitake and oyster mushrooms that are cultivated on premise and grace the menus of numerous Low-

By Dena J. DiOrio

rated selection of cookbooks, rosaries, handmade soaps, flower-inlaid candles and a bevy of monastic sundries made by monks the world over, including the famed Mepkin Abbey mushrooms, lined the shelves.

Our small group gathered outside the visitor center and we were met by Father Joseph Tedesco, the superior, who recapped the history of these sacred grounds, from the early days as a rice plantation, to the second home of Henry and Clare Boothe Luce

country restaurants, but there were no farm tours in my future on this sun-kissed day. The experience of being there, however, was much more transcendent We turned right at the entrance and commenced the long, quiet drive down the grand boulevard of live oaks (the allée of live oaks, as its referred to in the Mepkin brochures). Immediately, my soul was put at ease, being drawn to this majestic land like a horse to water.

After parking, we headed into the visitor center that was both welcoming and inviting. A well-cuLIVE OAKS ABOUND AT MEPKIN

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of the Time Magazine empire, to the donation of the land to the Roman Catholic Church in 1949.

And we listened, with great attention, to this history so rich and complex that it would take a true scholar to fully comprehend.

From the visitor center, our tour guide led us into the abbey toward the church, pausing only to admire the exterior of the Clare Boothe Luce Library, home to a collection of over 43,000 volumes spread over two floors and available to the public by appointment only. Mrs. Luce was an integral part

LEFT: DENISE MARIE FUGO; DENA J. DIORIO

“ Graced by an infinite number of footsteps before you, ask yourself the question “Where am I going?” as you plod along the winding rows. The short answer is, nobody knows, and the labyrinth suggests that you are not alone.

Let Your Love Light

SHINE

by Kate Ledbetter

T

his is not a friendship based on idle gossip or getting pedicures, although those are cool, too. This is about being there for each other while you endure your lowest lows and highest highs. This is about friendship that goes beyond the inevitable physical and emotional distance or the pettiness that arises in cliques of your youth.

We are friends-that-are-family. Together we are 8 adults, 9 kids, 17 winning attitudes. Despite the occasional physical exhaustion we all must endure, we are fulfilled spiritually and creatively, probably because love oozes from this group. It’s almost visible, tangible. This is the essence of the thing that I can’t put my finger on, but I believe is illustrative of the implicit value of human connection.

Each one of us contributes his or her own unique essence to the bond we still share. When we first formed, our eclectic group was fueled by youth, a sense of humor and the common love language of live music. We were there in the early days of the Pour House, along for the ride as Alex and Vanessa Harris began building the now legendary music venue (there’s a soundtrack in there somewhere). Fran “Fatty” (Barrett) Powell comes from a long line of educators, which I believe is something that’s in your genetic composition.

Her general irreverence and refusal to be bogged down by household chores continues to baffle and inspire me. Kristina (Isobe) Wildes has likely designed or executed the floral arrangements at any and every event you’ve attended in Charleston, but at that point she was still behind the bar. We were in front of the bar. Everyone was dancing. We still dance

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LEFT TO RIGHT: FRAN POWELL, KRISTINA WILDES, KATE LEDBETTER, VANESSA HARRIS

together, though sometimes it vacillates between traditional noodling, the Floss and the Fortnite dance.

After my boys were born, I was detached because I was terrified. I actually thought that my friends would abandon ship because, you know, I was no fun anymore. But lo and behold, here we are. Sometimes you’re the one receiving the MealTrain and sometimes you’re the one deliv- ering the boiled peanuts and granola. There’s a give and take, push and pull, yin and yang in quiet effect always.

Now we get to see each other’s offspring as hilarious extensions of the humans we love so much. You tell them not to sass their mama and and to stop aggravating their brother. You give them your old dresses and clutches. In the summer we swap out wet towels and goggles and in the winter we trade coats and toys. It’s seasonal -- that’s how it works, right?

The dinners we share are also seasonal. These are legendary and lingering events. There are clams to be purged and shrimp to peel. Who brought herbs? Is there butter? It will be deli- cious. Though our family contributes fresh produce and flowers from our garden, I can usually be found propped by the charcuterie witnessing the magic unfold in the kitchen. We recognize our strengths and I do a bang up job washing dishes. What are the kids doing? Preparing a performance, building LEGOS, being ‘tweens. Incessant banter and zingers are all fair game and with any luck you’ll make someone laugh so hard they spit their drink across the room. (The kid’s equivalent is to make each other pee their pants in fits of uncontrollable hysterics.)

There’s music, always music. Vinyl spins, new albums discussed, old albums discussed, notes compared. Every so often

JACK POWELL

Celebrating the value of friendships that grow with you

a “remember that show” but not in a stereotypical, forlorn “those were the days” way because there’s an unspoken knowing that these are the days. It’s busy and hectic and often very noisy. And I’m wiped. And we’re leaving. And that’s okay, everyone understands. There’s nothing to prove. We live in these moments. After many years of spending time together, these

about it because everyone is connected. We just keep connecting without expectation or anticipation, and in turn, it’s this human connection that stirs and feeds the soul.

Toni Morrison wrote it perfectly: “She is a friend of mine.

She gather me, man. The pieces I am, she gather them and give them back to me in all the right order.”

“ AFTER MANY YEARS OF SPENDING TIME TOGETHER, these common threads have revealed themselves as the foundation of our friendship: deep seeded beliefs in presence, peace, love, community, and connection with the earth.” common threads have revealed themselves as the foundation of our friendship: deep seeded beliefs in presence, peace, love, community, and connection with the earth.

Our kids are in different schools, we live in different neighborhoods, we have different roles in the broader community which we must serve in our own ways. There is a vast and growing network of people and places. There’s nothing exclusive

Kate Ledbetter is a mother of two darling boys, one dog, eight chickens and wife of one drummer on Johns Island, South Carolina. She hosts the “Easy Does It Radio Hour” on 96.3FM Ohm Radio Thursday 5 p.m. / Saturday 7 p.m. Kate is a student and teacher at Mission Yoga. She can often be found dancing through the aisles of Whole Foods or in her car. If you see her and she’s not dancing you should check her pulse.

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skirt . | july 2019 11

LEFT: DENISE MARIE FUGO; DENA J. DIORIO

PASSING A CRECHE ON THE GUIDED TOUR

of the soul of Mepkin, having laid plans for its exquisite gardens that she designed with the then-renowned landscape architect, Loutrell Briggs.

Our tour continued to the church where the inhabiting monks pray seven times a day. A stark study of minimalism, its natural beauty was overwhelming yet calming at the same time. Designed

by Ted Butler and Frank Kacmarcik, Obl.S.B., the church won the 1995 American Institute of Architecture award for religious architecture. Upon visiting, one will see why. Three main architectural elements were achieved: the use of natural light, natural materials, and balanced proportions. The aesthetics provoke a nondescript stillness that both quiets the mind and creates the space for intense meditation.

As our tour ended, we were left to roam the public grounds. If strolling the garden path leading you past centuries-old live oaks, naturally beautiful lawns and a blue-green wading pond are not enough to feed your soul, a restorative walk through the labyrinth is just in order. Graced by an infinite number of footsteps before you, ask yourself the question “Where am I going?” as you plod along the winding rows. The short answer is, nobody knows, and the labyrinth suggests that you are not alone.

After spending some time at Mepkin, I couldn’t help but feel that I had been to a place reminiscent of this in my past. Visions of my travels to the Norbulingka Institute in Sidphur, India, near the Himalayan town of Dharmsala and not far from the town of McLeod Ganj where the Tibetan government resides in exile, swirled through my head. The parallel was astounding— similar, yet extremely different. Was it that both places, steeped in history and surrounded by bountiful nature, are used in a spiritual context favoring hospitality, selfless service and community, that was so compelling to me? Or was it the extraordinary majesty of their natural worlds pulling the soul closer to the sublime? In any

case, the déjà-vu was real and a reminder to do this more often.

Cloistered and contemplative is a monk’s life, our tour guide explained. The takeaway for the layperson might be a lesson of sacrifice, or perhaps one of reverence for the unknown. In any event, the old adage of “less is more” holds true. A day trip to Mepkin Abbey goes beyond the mushrooms. Every visitor will have their own unique experience of this sacred place, but the realization that we are all worthy of a personal retreat from the pressures of the everyday and the mundane is real. Admission to the public grounds is free, and a guided tour is only $5 a person, which raises the question: why not go more often?

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skirt . | july 2019 9

forward!

RAEGAN LOOKING OUT AT THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS IN NORTH CAROLINA

RAEGAN HIKING IN THE WICKLOW MOUNTAINS IN IRELAND

JUST GO

EXPLORING THE NECESSITY OF SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE

By Raegan Whiteside

M

y sister and I like to play a game with my dad which isn’t even really a game. We ask him to tell us a story about his life and he tells us a story. Sometimes we ask him to repeat certain stories and sometimes we discover new ones that we have never heard before, always learning more about the crazy, adventure-filled life my dad lives. From stories of his adventures on the Appalachian Trail, to pranks he played on his friends in his childhood, to an incident involving a four wheeler and a snowsled, my dad has lived a life far from boring. One of my favorite stories is when my dad and his friends camped out under an overpass on a small highway in the Midwest when they were in high school. And that’s the whole story. No crazy plot twists or scary turn of events—these young men just wanted to do something adventurous, and they did without a second thought about it. The carefreeness and spontaneity of the whole experience awed me from a young age and still does today. This story that I have my dad retell has always felt like just that, a story, because society has taught me that this experience is fictional for someone like me—a female.

I’ve constantly been told by the media, family members, teachers and even strangers that women can’t travel alone. “It’s too dangerous,” “You won’t be able to defend yourself if something happens,” “Oh gosh, what if something happens?!” Whether it’s in the United States, a destination overseas or even a 45 minute car drive from where I live, a woman traveling alone has always been perceived by me as an impossibility. While people think it’s bold to imagine a woman traveling in broad daylight, a woman traveling at night is just crazy talk in their eyes.

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From a young age, however, I also learned the name Amelia Earhart— the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. For me, this name meant that maybe traveling wasn’t out of the question. Now I know the names Elspeth Beard, the first woman to ride a motorcycle across the world; Junko Tabei, the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest and the first woman to reach the top of all seven summits; Krystyna Chojnowska-Liskiewicz, the first woman to sail solo around the world, and countless other women. Women who overcome all the doubts, hesitations and straight out no’s that are told to them and dare to say “yes” anyway.

Growing up with an older sister, we were always told to stick together. If one of us wanted to go to the park in our neighborhood, the other had to go, too. If one of us had to go to the bathroom in a store, the other had to go, too. It wasn’t until I got my driver’s license that I had the freedom to travel by myself, and even then it was only within town limits.

I always accepted these restrictions because I wasn’t naive to the world around me. I saw the newspapers and television coverage of the appalling events involving women and children. But I’ve always had an urge to go. When I got to college and heard stories about study abroad, I quickly gained blinders with travel being the only objective in my vision. I took the first chance I could, and after my freshman year I studied abroad for a month in Ireland.

I finally tasted the freedom of travel and after that short month I was hungry for more. It wasn’t long until I found another opportunity to travel and took it—this time for a full semester in London. There were a lot of

RAEGAN EXPLORING IN SANTORINI, GREECE

IN BUDAPEST, HUNGARY WITH NEW FRIENDS MET WHILE STUDYING ABROAD

AT THE SWAMINARAYAN MANDIR IN LONDON WITH FRIEND

reasons to stay and a lot of voices telling me not to leave Charleston, but there was a part of me screaming to go—to go adventure, to learn and just to travel. I chose that voice and when I did, I chose me.

The world can be a scary place, there’s no doubt about that. Horrible incidents and situations happen to women every day, all over the world. But wouldn’t it be scarier if women never got to experience the amazing and life-altering consequences of travel? Wouldn’t it be more dangerous if women never learned a different way of life? Who would they be if they never experienced a new culture, saw ancient and stunning architecture, or tasted authentic food in an authentic restaurant? Wouldn’t it be more shocking if women never became stronger, smarter, more intuitive, brave, wholesome, independent, open-minded, curious, and so much more because they couldn’t travel? Who would I have been if I hadn’t traveled to Ireland? Or if I hadn’t traveled around Europe and lived in the multicultural city of London for the past five months?

What would be different in my life if I was able to sleep under an overpass in high school? Maybe I would have had a life-changing thought or idea as I fell asleep that night listening to the cars drive by and watching the stars.

Women aren’t scared of traveling. Society is scared of women traveling because when women travel they become empowered, and when women become empowered they don’t listen to the world constantly telling them “no.” They become the Amelias, Elspeths, Junkos and Krystynas of the world, and they demand to go. They demand to make waves.

They demand to be heard and to be seen. Do you hear a voice inside demanding to travel, learn and grow? Well, there is no time like the present.

Yes, you read that right—THE PRESENT. No more, “college is the only time to travel,” “I won’t be able to travel until retirement,” “I have too many responsibilities, I can’t just up and leave,” or “I can’t afford to go to another

country.” These are excuses that society tells women in order to keep us stagnant and unchanging. But a tree doesn’t stop changing once it’s fully grown. Leaves fall; new leaves take their place; sometimes flowers bloom on the branches and sometimes a swing or birdhouse is added to its limbs.

Women aren’t done changing and blooming, either, once they hit adulthood or a certain age. The difference between women and trees is that women are given the ability to move. They are given legs to wander, minds to learn and keep hold of new memories, eyes to take in beautiful sights and hearts to strengthen with compassion for others around the world.

Women are given these gifts the same as men. Women can—and should

“ There were a lot of reasons to stay and a lot of voices telling me not to leave Charleston, but there was a part of me screaming to go—to go adventure, to learn and just to travel. I chose that voice and when I did, I chose me.

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—travel the same as men. Women can bloom the same as men. So, go. Sleep under that overpass, travel to the next town over or to a country halfway around the world. Just go and never stop going.

Raegan Whiteside is a rising senior at the College of Charleston majoring in English and Women’s and Gender Studies and minoring in Spanish. She just got back from a semester abroad, living in London and traveling around Europe. Currently, Raegan is back in Charleston and interning at Skirt magazine for the summer, though she suspects her travels are far from over.

skirt . | july 2019 13

Charleston Boutique Warehouse Sale

All your favorite boutique’s sale items under one roof!

August 3-4, 2019 | Omar Shrine Temple 176 Patriots Point Dr., Mt. Pleasant

CBWS is a semi-annual event for boutiques, designers and online shops to show and sell their merchandise at discounted end-of-season prices up to 90% off!

August 3 ~ Saturday 10-7

•

August 4 ~ Sunday 10-5

NO Parking Fees | NO ENTRY FEES | Open to the Public Contact chasboutiquesale@gmail.com for vendor space availability.

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Join Us Friday, August 2nd Charity Benefit for the Turtle Survival Alliance

5:00-9:00pm | Tickets: $35 Food & Drinks | Cash Bar Enjoy the first selections on merchandise, fashion show, and gift bags for first 100 people!

TO BUY TICKETS VISIT:

FOLLOW US

http://tiny.cc/2c2q8y

Headline Here Endi tem atiur as nos ea ipsa aculles tio quaes vellorum expli cae. Id mol oribus ev elit et, as es dolor ad que nos dolupit odicide li atquibus sinciis ex plit faccustiam hit la adi unt dis Photography by Caroline Knopf • Styled by Alexandra Munzel

Retouching by Camera Works, Inc.; Photo assistants: Mason Brown and Trista Hernandez; Models: Katarina Pavic, Tommy Pavic, Carrington Wright and Bela Kirk from Directions USA; Makeup by Lisa Burson; Hair by Shawnee Heltsley

adventure

AWAITS

This summer, whether you stay in Charleston or travel abroad, don’t be afraid to explore different paths, learn something new and go for an adventure!

Let go of what’s holding you back, and live free!

Photography by Caroline Knopf Sea New York trench, Hampden Clothing, $690; Mara Hoffman swimsuit, Goldbug, $150; Necklace, Out of Hand, $159

Styled by Alexandra Munzel Model: Chloe with Fenton Models NYC Hair by Mac McAbee of Coven HairCraft Makeup by Elina Mille of Bellelina Studio Photo Assistants: Blake Shorter and Ashley Stand Retouching by Camera Works, Inc. Production by Jacqueline Lawrence of inventivEVENTS Production Assistant: Whitney Gumpert Set Design/Props by Meredith Giltner of Polished Flair Props from Celadon and from the private collection of Melissa Brown

take the HELM Be ready for adventure and look stylish this summer. Choose lightweight neutrals in classic silhouettes. Don’t forget a hat.

It protects your face from the sun and ensures you look totally chic.

Uma Wang pants, Worthwhile, $995; On Katarina: Rundholz DIP jacket, Replika layered dress, Havens, $603; $575; Johnny Farah Bed Stu boots, belt, $238, Havens Out of Hand, $300; Ring, Out of Hand, $44

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Silvia Tcherassi blouse, Hampden Clothing, $408; Rag & Bone shorts, Hampden Clothing, $225; Hat, Goorin Bros., $170; Bed Stu boots, Out of Hand, $300; Imperial Jasper ring, Out of Hand, $260; Leopard scarf, Amazon, $18

SPECIAL THANKS Shot on location aboard the Spirit of South Carolina. Thanks to Michael Bennet and Tommy Baker for welcoming the Skirt crew.

The Spirit of South Carolina offers one-and two-week-long, hands-on summer programs for students 13 and up. The educational programs are designed to challenge and engage students while promoting responsibility, teamwork and stewardship. The programs teach students the science and art of traditional seafaring, maritime history and marine environmentalism. The curriculum focuses on math and science with extensions into the history and literature of South Carolina and our relationship to the sea.

Learn more at spiritofsc.org.

call of the WILD Spice Xxxxup neutrals by choosing exotic animal prints and adding a bold necklace. Explore your wildest dreams!

On Katarina: Hat Attack hat, “Jane” jumpsuit, $198, and heavy weave beach blanket, $66, Pink Chicken On Carrington: Yellow stripe Garden dress, $72, Pink Chicken

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Mara Hoffman swimsuit top, Goldbug, $94.50; Mara Hoffman swimsuit bottom, Goldbug, $101.50; Lafayette 148 trench, Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant, $648; Wooden necklace, Out of Hand, $85; Messenger bag, Out of Hand, $530

On Bela: Monroe gray stripe dress, $76, Pink Chicken

STAUD jumpsuit, Hampden Clothing, $177; Bed Stu boots, Out of Hand, $300; Leather cuff, Out of Hand $57; Hat, Goorin Bros., $170; Leopard scarf, Amazon, $18;

Surf Sisters Women Ride Waves on Wemoons Weekends

By Taylor DuVall • Photgraphy by Erin Turner

A

fter 16 years of teaching surfing lessons, all-star surfer and Shaka Brown and her team ensured each of us—even rookies like me—were catchSurf School owner Jenny Brown noticed a pattern: women would ing wave after wave by morning’s end.

The story could end there a success, but something deeper happens at take a lesson, feel confident, recognize how capable their bodies Wemoons Weekends. were, have a blast…yet they would never surf again on their own.

The morning starts with a talk circle where women introduce themselves – Some didn’t have a friend to go with. Some worried they weren’t good enough. Some were intimidated. Brown understood. Though the women’s an experience that goes beyond the practicality of introduction. Each woman realizes she is surrounded by other women who may be nervous but ready to surf community has grown over the past 20 years, and even received equal feel the fear and do it anyway. Suddenly, a group of strangers become… pay this year, with three decades of surfing experience Brown surf-sisters, cheering each other on the entire morning. knows what it’s like to paddle out and feel the need to Speaking with my fellow participants before class, the conprove yourself in a male-dominated sport. sensus was clear: I am here to feel confident and connect with But as she tells her students, women have every other women. Back on the sand after surfing, the women right to be there. “It is an aggressive sport and you echoed: “That made me feel so confident.” And, “I really have to have a little bit of aggression to get in the shakasurfschool.com connected with new friends.” wave, to paddle out, to be in the ocean. Yet when FollyBeach@shakasurfschool.com There was a palpable excitement—we all experienced you see women come out and they have that REMAINING WEMOONS two things many of us yearn for: women empowering othbeautiful, graceful style, it really is a beautiful WEEKENDS IN 2019 er women and a morning of being grounded in the present balance,” Brown says.

Saturday, July 13: 9:00-11:30 moment. There’s no doubt our joy was connected to our Like other world-changing women, Brown Saturday, July 20: exuberant leader—a strong woman by every metric. noticed a problem and created a solution: 9:00-11:30 Beyond competitive surfing and running her business, Wemoons Weekends, an event she calls “a day honBrown is an artist, yoga teacher, wife, and mother. She’s also a true oring the feminine.” lover of the water, accepting the responsibility of teaching respect for Throughout the summer, Brown gathers small groups of the ocean. “We take waves, and then we give back…we have to protect the women on Folly Beach to surf together no matter their experience level, or lack thereof. “Women really support each other. It’s so fun to be things we love.”

Wemoons Weekends run at Folly Beach on various summertime Satable to surf with your surf-sisters.”

On an unusually warm morning in May, a handful of diverse woman and urdays. Shaka Surf School also offers Wemoons Surf and Yoga Excursions I experienced this special gathering, some learning for the first time, some to places like Mexico or Nicaragua (women can dive more deeply into honing their skills. From a lecture on safety and a beachside yoga sequence surfing and community-building), private and group surfing lessons, and for prepping the body, to individualized help and technique suggestions, surfing camps.

Ride the Waves

community

Cultivating Community Planting Neighborhoods with Fresh Future Farm

By Helen Mitternight

G

ermaine Jenkins remembers the day of the video. It was a rainy day own food up to a point,” Jenkins says. “The introduction of these fertilizers you in October 2015. Fall had been good for the farm and farm stand can buy in bags came after World War II when there was bomb material sitting she’d built on a tiny plot of land in North Charleston, but this was around and they turned it into agricultural products. I got on the internet and a cold, rainy day and she and her son were alone. The video, taken figured out how our ancestors fed themselves before that. When I say ancestral by her son, then 17 years old, shows her singing forlornly about the rain and conservation and farming, it’s what people are calling permaculture, but that term was coined in the 70s and people have been growing since the beginning the lack of customers. And, as she’s talking to the camera, a gush of rainof time.” water falls right on her head.

Jenkins experimented at home. A concrete slab that used to hold Fortunately, Jenkins isn’t one to let a little water dampen her CLAIM OUR water was covered with soil, mulch, and waste from her chicken dreams. By February, she realized that people were not going ROOTS: coop, then planted with sweet potatoes. to brave the cold to come buy vegetables at a farm stand; Help Us Build a Com“I got 100 pounds of sweet potatoes I didn’t have to take care

by May, she had built a store to sell her produce so they munity Food Operation. kickstarter.com/projects/ of,” she says. wouldn’t have to. freshfuturefarm/claimAt first, neighbors were skeptical about her methods, which Jenkins is the creator of Fresh Future Farm, a farm that our-roots-help-us-buildinvolve putting cardboard over the ground, then layering wood sits on less than an acre of land in what is known as a food a-community-foodchips, soil and mulch. Plants are watered and then, when the plant desert. She started the farm when she realized she had to operation can grow on its own, she stops watering and allows nature to take shop outside of her North Charleston neighborhood to find over. The garden is built up rather than dug down. fresh ingredients for her son, who has allergies. Making purchas“People, men especially, thought something was wrong with me because I es outside of her neighborhood was not only inconvenient, it meant her money was leaving the neighborhood, and she was determined to change that. didn’t dig any holes,” she recalls. “They’d say, ‘How you gonna’ get that to grow?’

Jenkins had taken courses to become a Master Gardener, but she wanted to We were handing out flyers to neighbors in 2014 before we had anything but build something that didn’t rely on the chemicals and expensive processes the grass. We might have been a little early on that messaging.”

By fall 2015, Jenkins and her family had opened up the farm stand, selling program recommended.

“A lot of folks don’t realize that everybody, 80% or more, was growing their pumpkins, some vegetables she grew herself, and some vegetables she bought wholesale from Limehouse Produce.

“It was cool because folks were buying pumpkins and then taking them down the street in our wheelbarrows to their houses,” she says.

But after that cold dose of rain and reality that October, she knew she had to expand.

Fresh Future Farm has grown to include five employees, a board of directors and an advisory committee. The store has sold or distributed 15.5 tons of groceries, more than a quarter of which is grown on the farm. Neighbors have turned from skeptics to supporters.

“The reason we were able to get this store open in two months is because of the volunteer support from East Cooper and Sundrops Montessori Schools families. They really dug in and helped us,” she says.

The farm grows greens, squash and other vegetables but Jenkins says she’ll probably always have to supplement from places like Limehouse Produce and Sam’s Club. They can provide a wider variety than she can for Fresh Future’s grocery store, which is necessary since the store is about more than just selling produce grown at the farm.

“The store is for people who don’t have access to transportation,” she says.

“That’s what I’m most proud of: you can get the most nutrient-dense produce

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“ We’re focused on creating relationships with our neighbors and we’ve done that. Whether you live in the neighborhood or not, you become our neighbor.

I’m so proud of the fact that we have a place where no matter your socioeconomic background, we’re all getting along with each other. No matter how much money you make, we all have to eat.” from us with your EBT card (the card administered by the state welfare depart- the farm’s produce. She also hopes to add a pavilion where she and volunteers can talk to people eager to learn without standing in the blazing sun ment to provide benefits).”

For years the farm has required Jenkins to work more than 60 hours a week; or having their own experience with rainwater incidents.

And, she’s dreaming of expanding the definiit’s grueling. tion of “neighbor.”

“People say I look young for my age,” she says. “I don’t “I was listening to this show on NPR about feel young for my age.”

HOW YOU CAN HELP how the communities that bounced back the The farm will be reducing its hours soon since most Fresh Future Farm accepts donafastest from natural disasters were the ones that customers show up only in the afternoons. Jenkins has tions on its website, FreshFutureneighbors knew each other and helped each been showing people how to grow gardens using her Farm.org. They have a kickstarter other,” she says. “We’re focused on creating remethod, but she’d like to refine her systems so that others campaign to raise $60,000 by Aug. lationships with our neighbors and we’ve done can start similar farms without her input.

19, which will allow them to purchase that. Whether you live in the neighborhood or “There are lots of Germaines out there,” she says. more land. They also could use help not, you become our neighbor. I’m so proud of “They just don’t have the resources and information.” with labor in building the pavilion. the fact that we have a place where no matter Cutting hours and refining systems, however, doesn’t Also, Jenkins says telling people your socioeconomic background, we’re all getmean she’s slowing down. about Fresh Future Farms is another ting along with each other. No matter how much Jenkins says she’s dreaming of expanding with an way to help. money you make, we all have to eat.” incubator kitchen that can sell foods prepared from

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skirt . | july 2019 23

books

I Miss You When I Blink A life-long perfectionist learns to let go and finds her own way to happiness

H

appiness is an odd little thing, isn’t it? We have symbols in our minds of what represents happiness, and those symbols vary from person to person.

Society also rolls out its own blueprint for us to follow. It starts in childhood: happiness means getting good grades, and being quiet in the halls at school so you don’t have to sit out at recess (cue the operant conditioning). Then, it’s getting into a good college so that you get the right kind of job, so you can get the right kind of house, so you can become president of the HOA and write by-laws about hedges. It’s making sure your oil is changed every 3,000 miles so you won’t end up sitting on the side of the highway in tears. But soon enough, this sort of risk manager’s road to happiness becomes a book of rules that we are to follow without fail. And if it’s all going smoothly—meaning, we have the perfect job, appropriate house, and that big wildcard, our health—we have no right to be depressed, right? Problem is, we sometimes forget to ask ourselves, what do I actually want? Mary Laura Philpott, author of the essay collection, I Miss You When I Blink finally asked herself that question, and it became a book that I couldn’t put down.

Mary Laura (after meeting her I found she’s so personable that I can only call her by her first name) got very good at following all the rules. If it were possible to get an A+ for following all of the social rules set up for us, she earned it. She had amazing jobs, writing for the likes of The New York Times,

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The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, and even US Weekly. Mary Laura had climbed to these amazing career heights and settled into a nice life in Atlanta with her husband and kids. She was enjoying perfect health, financial freedom, and a manicured lawn the neighbors would smile at. But she wasn’t happy. She was following rules written by someone else, and following them so well that she forgot to do anything else.

When circumstances caused her own series of “Aha!” moments to start trickling in, she didn’t light a grenade and throw it on her life. She didn’t go on a globe-trotting adventure like Elizabeth Gilbert or peel her toenails off somewhere along the Pacific Crest Trail like Cheryl Strayed. She stayed a fiercely devoted wife and mother. But, she slowly began to unravel and rework the parts of her perfectly patterned quilt that didn’t fit in her world anymore.

Then she wrote about it and accidentally garnered a near cult following of women who said, “I get that,” to which Mary Laura offers with a shrug, “There’s just something about storytelling.”

Without giving too much away, I want to encourage you to pick this one up. I Miss You When I Blink is the artistic representation of life. It’s a series of snippets, some funny, some sad, some a mix that didn’t even make sense when Mary Laura wrote them, but formed a hero’s journey when rearranged.

When we sat down to discuss the book, she said to me, her light eyes literally transferring adventure and wonder straight into mine, “I wasn’t sure the essays were even sticking together. I wondered if it was all for nothing.” But then she real-

LEFT: SAMANTHA FUENTES

BY LORNA HOLLIFIELD

“ if it’s all going smoothly—meaning, we have the perfect job, appropriate house, and that big wildcard, our health—we have no right to be depressed, right? Problem is, we sometimes forget to ask ourselves, what do I actually want? ized it was just a puzzle, and when put together, it meant everything. “People need a reinvention story that isn’t just a blow-up-your-life story.” That’s precisely what her seemingly disjunct sojourn with moments of both determination and defeat have created. I Miss You When I Blink is just the tale of a woman who misstepped her way to true happiness, her own way, with some tradition that fits the mold just fine, and other parts that break the bowl to pieces. It’s a story that proves we don’t

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have to fit one archetype, but can actually be anything we want to be, keeping the pieces that make sense to our souls and changing the ones that don’t.

Mary Laura leaves us with this thought: “I’m a big fan of ‘and,’ not ‘or.’ Part of the adventure is realizing you can put pieces together that don’t look like they fit at first. You just have to keep working that puzzle…and without the box directions, wedging squares into circles where you must.”

skirt . | july 2019 25

men

If you’re an entrepreneur in Charleston, Patrick Bryant is a name you probably recognize. Co-founder of the Harbor Entrepreneur Center and former chairman of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, Bryant’s passion is hanging out with small business owners and learning about how they solve problems.

A self-proclaimed serial entrepreneur, Bryant says, “There is always a problem. The problem creates an opportunity to solve it.”

Bryant knows a thing or two about launching, growing and scaling businesses: Teamphoria, Bidr, Shine Papers, and Go To Team are included in his list of professional credits. He has a knack for developing a clear vision, creating a timeline, and building a team of talented and creative people who execute.

“You have to be someone who can see the big picture and partner with excellent people that complement your strengths and weaknesses.”

Patrick Bryant: SKIRTING TRADITION

The self-proclaimed “serial entrepreneur” loves to take a risk Bryant has never done things the traditional way. Raised by

By Angie Mizzell entrepreneurial parents, his busiPhotography ness-oriented mindset was cultiBy Erin Turner vated in at a young age. He started his first company at 16, designing logos, menus and advertisements on his brand new (and newly invented) Macintosh computer. As a senior in high school, he was awarded an internship at WIS-TV in Columbia, SC, and when he started college at the University of South Carolina, he went back to work at WIS as an editor and cameraman.

As a broadcast journalism major on the management track, Bryant convinced administrators to allow him to create his own custom curriculum, using his wealth of work experience to gain college credit. While at USC, he launched his second company, which provided sound and lighting for events. He later sold that business to his partner and it’s still in business today.

From the beginning, Bryant knew that one of the great secrets to entrepreneurial success is creating a business that’s self-sustainable, even after the founder exits. This mindset served him well for the endeavors that were just on the horizon.

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After college, the Olympic Park bombing in 1996 led to the launch of Go To Team. It all started when Bryant was visiting his friend, a WIS-TV cameraman who was in Atlanta covering the Olympics. They were having dinner when the lights went out.

They knew something was wrong. They ran into the park before police had a chance to cordon off the area and immediately started covering the breaking news story. Their fast action got the attention of the networks and theirs became some of the first footage to make air.

From there a business idea was born. Bryant wrote the business plan and secured a loan from the Small Business Administration.

For a while, Go To Team operated out of a spare bedroom in Bryant’s house. He and business partner Dwayne Scott were “living lean,” taking on any assignment they could get. The Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky scandal was the company’s big break; covering that story for the network was the beginning of Go To Team offering video services on a national level. Bryant ran the company for 15 years then passed it on to business partner Shawn Moffatt. Today, Go To Team continues to thrive with 20 offices around the U.S. and is the largest staff video crew services provider in the country.

When you step out into the world as an entrepreneur, others will perceive you as “stupid or brave” based on whether you fail

“ There is always a problem.

The problem creates an opportunity to solve it.” or succeed, Bryant says. “But that perception is unfair, because you were brave either way.” Businesses will fail. But Bryant says those who take the risk are better for it, because they’re smarter than they were before.

Bryant’s latest endeavor is CODE/+/TRUST, a software development firm serving early-stage entrepreneurs starting new apps and corporations developing software. Bryant believes that software is the number one business opportunity in Charleston and the city’s software and IT cluster will continue to grow.

The learning, growing and problem-solving never ends. Bryant remains committed to driving opportunities, like the Harbor Entrepreneur Center, that “create collision” between entrepreneurs in the Charleston area.

What’s the next business opportunity for Bryant? Time will tell. You just never know when a new inspired idea will hit.

Patrick’s Top 5 Books For the Business Minded 1. “Blink” by Malcolm Gladwell 2.

“Originals: How Non-conformists Move the World” by Adam Grant

3. “ Contagious: Why Things Catch On”

by Jonah Berger

4. “E Myth Revisited” by Michael E. Gerber 5.

“The Go-Giver” by Bob Burg and John David Mann

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skirt . | july 2019 27

go w ith th e

W O FL

Heart work and hustle come together for an inspired yoga instructor

T

he sound of a Beyoncé beat bumps powerfully in the background as fifty students flow, jump, and sweat on their yoga mats. The mirrored walls fog as 85-degree heat fills the room. A neon sign emblazoned with the word “grace” casts a soft pink glow over the class as we all chase an endorphin rush with Sarah Frick as our guide.

Frick is the founder of The Works, a newly-opened boutique fitness studio located on upper Meeting Street. I recently took her signature class by the same name, an invigorating 60-minute method she developed that blends vinyasa yoga, cardio, strength work and mindfulness, all set to a musical beat.

With its sold out classes, hundreds of positive online reviews and nearly 5,000 Instagram followers, it’s hard to believe that The Works has only been in its current home for a couple of

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months. But, as Frick shared over coffee on Sullivan’s Island, her new “sweat studio” has been a long time coming, slowly manifesting after years of loss, risk and hustle.

Frick first discovered yoga at age 21 when a friend invited her to take an intense Hot 26-style class.

“I was blown away,” she remembers. “It was the hardest thing I’d ever done but I immediately went back the next day.”

A year later, she completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training and was quickly hired to manage a new studio in Charlotte. But after going through a divorce, her exciting new career (and her life) shifted. Friends encouraged her to move to Charleston for a fresh start.

“A lot of the fitness studios felt like I was young and inexperienced, so I just kept auditioning and teaching anywhere I could,” she recalls. “I was

also hostessing, delivering flowers, babysitting… hustling to make it work.”

She eventually got a gig managing a Lululemon pop-up on Market Street. Frick recruited Beth Plant as her assistant manager, a friend she’d met while subbing classes at Eco Fitness.

When the recession hit and the pop-up shuttered eight months later, Plant suggested they start a yoga studio together. The duo opened Charleston Power Yoga on Upper King Street in 2009; Frick remarried, and a second location in Mount Pleasant followed suit.

As the business grew, so too did Frick’s soulful approach to teaching. Just a few years after opening CPY, she and her husband John lost their first child, a little girl named Grace.

“That changed everything for me. The heart work became really important,” she shares. “The fitness is the obvious piece. But ultimately, what

PALE GIRL PHOTOGRAPHY

By Allyson Sutton

we’re all looking for is to be heard, to be seen, to be loved and to feel connected. If you can do that as you’re moving your body, there is something powerful that happens.”

Frick and her husband would later welcome a son (now 6) and twins (a boy and a girl, now 21/2), a physical and emotional experience that continued to evolve her practice.

“After having four kids and getting older, I needed to do more,” she shares. She began incorporating cardio and sculpt moves into her classes, a new approach that quickly gained a devoted following. That’s when she knew “The Works” method needed its own space.

“I wanted to run a whole studio that was doing this method and really drive it home because I believe in it so much,” says Frick.

The second she saw the floor-to-ceiling windows on the ground level of The Guild, she knew it was the perfect space. But it still had a dirt foundation and wouldn’t be ready for months.

“I had instructors following me after parting ways with CPY, but no space,” she shares. “I said, ‘All right, I gotta hustle.’”

Frick and her loyal crew of teachers started hosting pop-ups downtown and on Sullivan’s Island, eventually securing a temporary lease at the

The heart work became really important,” she shares. “The fitness is the obvious piece. But ultimately, what we’re all looking for is to be heard, to be seen, to be loved and to feel connected. If you can do that as you’re moving your body, there is something powerful that happens.” former Redux Yoga space on President Street.

“Our lease there ended on May 31st. We opened on Meeting Street on May 29th,” says Sarah. “It was super kismet.”

In addition to her signature “The Works” class, Frick’s new studio offers “The Sweat,” a high intensity interval training class she created in her driveway, as well as traditional hot vinyasa, a deep stretch class and a slow flow class called “The Revive.”

In the short time since opening, she and her team have already begun expanding The Works beyond the physical studio. They recently launched a streaming service so Works-lovers can access classes from anywhere. They released a

podcast called “Are You For Real,” featuring conversations with inspiring risk-takers. And they’re hosting a wellness retreat in Mexico this October, with plans to host a few retreats per year.

More than anything, though, Frick is excited to use The Works as a platform for community impact. She recently tapped into her growing social media following to raise money for kids in MUSC foster care, collecting a whopping $10,000 in just five days.

“What I want to see with the brand is more than fitness,” she says. “There is so much more that we can be doing. If we’re going in and healing ourselves, then in turn we have the capacity to do more for others.”

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table

Husk’s Fix-It Woman On what it takes to keep people—and herself—happy

BY HELEN MITTERNIGHT

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skirt . | july 2019

“ General Manager is a catch-all title for everything that nobody else wants to do.

I’m the first line of defense responsible for staff happiness.” bar food are served from a separate kitchen.

Bresnahan says she loves challenges and they keep her from feeling stuck in a rut after being GM for five years.

“The key is being organized and having answers before getting asked,” she says. “A lot comes with the experience of seeing things go not so well. It’s having forethought and coming up with a solution and having the humility to ask for help. Confidence goes a long way. If I look at someone and say, ‘I’ve got this,’ people will calm down.”

Her love of problem-solving has led to her volunteer work on the board of Bread & Butter, a nonprofit dedicated to providing culinary skills to high schoolers who can’t or don’t want to attend college, and to helping mitigate the food and beverage staff shortage in Charleston.

That doesn’t mean she can’t take a break when necessary. Bresnahan says she loves to cook at home (“You can’t help but watch and learn if you really love something,” she says), garden, and going to the beach.

“I love lying under the warm, beautiful sun. I’ll tell you I’m taking a book but, honestly, I’ll probably just fall asleep.”

She’s not sure what her next steps will be.

Some days, she thinks she’d like to move up to manage multiple locations.

“But, other days, I can’t imagine leaving.

These people have become like family,” she says. “As long as I get challenged and keep learning, I’ll be happy.”

FERRIS KAPLAN

J

ennifer Bresnahan studied sports medicine at the College of Charleston and she still patches the odd scrape or cut for the staff at Husk, where she is general manager.

“I probably do it more than I should,” she says, sitting at a booth in Husk’s bar, a separate building adjacent to the storied restaurant. “I’m the in-house nurse. From cuts to falling down, they ask me to bandage them and ask if they need to go to a doctor. If there’s any doubt, I send them.”

Patching up humans is just part of the fix-it duties required to keep the popular restaurant running smoothly.

Bresnahan says she’s sealed leaks, cleaned the toilet, even stepped in to assist on the pastry or bar lines. It’s a job that keeps her hopping 50 hours a week and she still checks email and comes up with ideas on her off time.

“GM is a catch-all title for everything that nobody else wants to do,” she says, “from doing the financials to human resources. I’m the first line of defense responsible for staff happiness.”

Travis Grimes has taken over for celebrity chef Sean Brock, who left for Nashville. Bresnahan says she and Grimes have worked together for so long that they have a true partnership. It frees her up to solve the myriad challenges that pop up on any given day at.

Husk is a place people travel just to dine and they count on the restaurant to make their memories. “The biggest challenge is not having the wiggle room to go above and beyond for everybody,” she says. “I have to say ‘no’ a lot. It’s the most frustrating part of the job, but there’s no way to hold 20 tables knowing everybody has an anniversary tomorrow.

We can do special menus and personalize them if you let us know, but at the end of the day there are only so many people one restaurant can take care of. It doesn’t make everybody happy.”

Husk serves around 400 to 430 people a day and another 90 in the bar, where snacks and

table

NEWS OPENINGS & CLOSINGS

Betty’s Eatery, home of elaborate breakfasts in Mt. Pleasant, has closed. Owner Kelly Chu says she and her husband are going to focus on the continued growth of Red Orchids and their Cirsea ice creams.

After five years of offering artisan brews on Skylark Drive, Craft Conundrum has closed.

STU ROGERS

with family and growing the business. The West Ashley outpost will stay open.

Stella’s, the downtown Greek transplant from Richmond, VA, is halting its brunch service, citing the shortage of food and beverage workers.

Washington, DC-based Estadio is bringing a branch to 122 Spring Street this summer. Chef Alex Lira, formerly of Bar Normandy, will be in the kitchen turning out modern, Spanish-style food.

Herd Provisions, combining a butchery, a restaurant, and takeout food, is now open at 106 Grove Street.

Pho King (and yes, if you say it right it’s naughty!) is now open in Mt. Pleasant at 700 S. Shelmore Avenue.

CHEF & STAFF MOVES

Semilla (featured in the May issue) is closing its restaurant. The owners will still be operating their food truck of the same name offering Mexican street food, as well as Street Bird Westside, a chicken sandwich pop-up.

Vicious Biscuit is opening a second location in Summerville this fall and has plans to open even more locations soon.

The downtown—original—WildFlour Pastry is closing in mid-July. Owner Lauren Mitterer says she wants to pull back and spend more time

Kelly Franz is ending her long tenure as executive chef at Magnolia’s and is heading to the Beeliner at the Beach Club on Kiawah Island to cook for famed chef Mike Lata.

Jeremiah Bacon is back to being chef-partner at the Indigo Road Hospitality Group as Stuart Rogers relieves Bacon in the kitchen at the Macintosh. Rogers is the new executive chef and comes from the group’s Oak Steakhouse in Atlanta.

Vintage Lounge on King Street has brought in new executive chef Dylan Walker, who’s bringing in some new small plates for diners.

EVENTS

Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co. is hosting Drayton Hall’s Palladian Society for a fundraiser to preserve one of Charleston’s most iconic historic structures on July 11 from 5-8 p.m. You can reserve through the restaurant.

Fund all during July. The philanthropy is in celebration of the restaurant group’s 10th anniversary.

KELLY FRANZ

Take a trip to Puerto Rico on the last Sundays of the month this summer as Wild Common’s executive chef Orlando Pagán celebrates his Puerto Rican roots with a pop-up dinner series.

A four-course tasting menu will showcase his family recipes and go for $65 a person. You can also get piña colada specials and a selection of Puerto Rican rums. Use Resy for reservations.

Taste of Charleston is returning on Oct. 13 at Riverfront Park after taking a 2-year break. The event, which features food from all over the city, will be cashless this year. Attendees can pre-load wristbands so they can eat their way around the city without leaving the park. Tickets are available at freshtix.com/events/taste-of-charleston.

All of the Indigo Road restaurants—Indaco, O-Ku, Oak Steakhouse, Macintosh, Mercantile and Mash, the Cocktail Club, Bar Mash and the Cedar Room—are donating 100% of the proceeds from select menu items to the Homeless to Hope

MENU & VENUE CHANGES

Minero is changing its dinner hours. It will now be open Sunday-Thursday from 4:30 p.m to 9:30 p.m and Friday and Saturday from 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

KUDOS

People Magazine is infatuated with the fried oyster rolls at Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop—they named it #1 best sandwich in the state!

Queen Street Hospitality Group and the Charleston Restaurant Foundation have partnered with nonprofits I Heart Hungry Kids and the Lowcountry Blessing Box Project for Catch Up on Lunch, a fundraising effort to repay past due lunch debt for public school children in Charleston, Dorchester and Berkeley Counties.

After raising more than $25,000 through “Spirit Nights” that donated partial profits to the cause, four schools had their lunch debts paid off.

Open Table is calling Fleet Landing one of the country’s best Al Fresco Restaurants for the year.

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SUMMER’S

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essay

LEAVING MY OLD LIFE BEHIND Waking up to the present moment

Y

ears ago, early in my adult life—after marriage but before children—I packed up my entire life in Charleston and moved 3,000 miles across the country to Portland, Oregon.

My husband had already left Charleston to start his new job, so I drove the moving truck, which was packed to the edges, my hatchback Hyundai Elantra in tow. My mom followed me in her Toyota Camry with a small portable storage container trailing behind. My mom was a bundle of nerves about the heavy load we were hauling. The life I was leaving—my job, my friends, a new house that I loved—felt just as heavy.

I hoisted myself up into the driver’s seat and adjusted its position, raising it as far up and forward as possible. I sat on a pillow for an extra boost. My cat was in the passenger seat, tucked away in his crate. Like my mom, he was nervous too. I, on the other hand, had my favorite CDs and a 6-pack of diet Cokes on ice in my Igloo cooler, and this comforted me somehow.

I’m not sure why, or how, I remained calm as I turned the key in the ignition, put the moving truck in drive and slowly rolled away, leading the

“In the days and years ahead, I’d discover that I had a lot about my life that I would need to unravel.” funky parade out of my suburban neighborhood. All I know is that I was acutely aware of how dramatically my life was changing. It was a clear turning of the page.

There’s something about a road trip that conjures up images of Thelma and Louise, that early 1990s movie starring Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis about two best friends who escape their lives to experience the thrill of the open highway. Before we left for Portland, my mom and I watched that movie, romanticizing the journey we were about to take. In reality, our trip was nothing like the movie. We didn’t pack light and we didn’t take off in a top-down convertible, waving our hands in the air. We also weren’t running from the law. And, to state the obvious, we had no immediate plans to drive off a cliff.

Still, the movie symbolized the freedom that I craved. In the days before our departure, I chopped off my hair and removed my Britney-Spears-inspired belly-button ring, physically shedding pieces of the old me. I welcomed the

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idea of living where no one knew me and reinventing myself.

On the road, Mom and I communicated with yellow walkie-talkies, which she used frequently to tell me to slow down. I can only imagine the scene from her point of view. Her small car was low to the ground, the large moving truck towering above her. The fact that I was towing my car made it worse, the way it kept bouncing around and looking like it could roll off the trailer at any moment.

For me, the view was different. Sitting up high with my hands firmly clasped around the steering wheel, my thoughts and feelings moved through me as easily as the scenery breezed by on the other side of the glass. I wouldn’t say that I felt empowered, but I definitely wasn’t afraid.

There was, however, one moment when I thought I might die—fly right off the side of the mountain—just like in the movie. We’d just crossed the Oregon border and I didn’t see the signs issuing a warning about the steep decline up ahead. Suddenly I was picking up speed and when I tapped the brakes, the whole truck shook. There was too much weight, too much momentum as I traveled down, down, down the winding mountain road. So I did the only thing I could think of: I pulled the truck out of drive and dropped it down to second gear. The engine moaned in protest, but miraculously, the truck slowed down. I never touched the gas, and each time the truck picked up speed, I’d repeat the cycle. I did this again and again, for miles.

And then, suddenly, the road flattened. I exhaled. I made it.

There’s a powerful scene in Thelma and Louise, when Thelma says, “I feel really awake. I don’t recall ever feeling this awake. You know? Everything looks different now.”

On the road, I was awake. I experienced what it means, and how it feels, when people talk about being fully present. The fog that sometimes covers my eyes and senses had quietly evaporated. And in those brief moments of fear—especially then—I was definitely awake. And, it quite possibly saved my life.

When I arrived in Portland, it was raining. Second-guessing and selfdoubt began to creep in. The fog over my eyes would return. In the days and years ahead, I’d discover that I had a lot about my life that I would need to unravel. I’d have to do more shedding of the old self —more than simply cutting my hair and removing a belly ring.

Those days are long behind me, but even today, when things get foggy, I have that Thelma and Louise-inspired road trip to point back to. It serves as my compass. It helps me return to center, back to the present. To the place where I feel alive and awake.

CALLIE CRANFORD

By Angie Mizzell

CALLIE CRANFORD

FREE TO BE A MORE CONFIDENT YOU.

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calendar

events J U LY

Ready for an adventure? Get out and explore a world of culture, imagination, cuisine, and history at events like the 15th

06.18 - 08.08 Family Tours at the Aiken-Rhett House and Nathaniel Russell House Museums

Take the family out for a day of experiencing fun and history in Charleston. Families can take part in a guided tour of the Nathaniel Russell House on Tuesdays and the Aiken-Rhett House on Thursdays but the fun doesn’t end there! Activities, historic games and historic toys will also be a part of this special family outing. Tickets are $12 for adults, $5 for children 6-16 and free for children under 6. Tours start every half hour between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Nathaniel Russell House Museum, 51 Meeting Street; Aiken-Rhett House Museum, 48 Elizabeth Street. Visit historiccharleston. org/museums.

CRY JOY PARK— GARDENS OF THE DARK AND LIGHT

event. All eight films will be screened on various dates throughout the summer in the Harry Potter theme decorated Music Hall. A Harry Potter themed art exhibit will also be on display and the bar will be serving Harry Potter themed treats. Feel free to dress up in your Hogwarts House robes or as your favorite character and be on the lookout for prizes, surprises and trivia. Tickets are $8 per film or $50 for a 8-Film Pass.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and each film starts at 7 p.m. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John Street. Visit charlestonmusichall.com.

ONGOING THROUGH 07.07 Jennifer Wen Ma, Cry Joy Park—Gardens of Dark and Light

The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art is hosting Jennifer Wen Ma and her solo exhibition. Her exhibit, inspired by the history of Charleston, is more than just art to look at—it’s an experience. She is collaborating with the College of Charleston’s School of the Arts with performances by students in the visual arts, theatre, dance, music and more. There will also be community dinners to discuss specific issues Charleston is currently battling. There will also be Luncheons where the public is invited to be a part of the conversation.

Bring a bag lunch and join your fellow community members and the artist herself. Free admission. Luncheon is 12:00 p.m–1:00 p.m. Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, 161 Calhoun Street. Visit halsey.cofc.edu for more information.

07.10 Mamma Mia Sing Along

06.10 - 08.05 The Summer of Potter

Step into the Wizarding World at Charleston Music Hall with this summer-long

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“Mamma Mia, here I go again” with the Summer Sing-Along series at Charleston Music Hall presenting this month’s Mamma Mia. Bring your very own Dynamos and let your inner “Dancing Queen” shine by singing and dancing along to Meryl Streep.

Charleston Music Hall offers an add-on din-

SHAGGIN’ ON THE COOPER

ner option at Vincent Chicco’s or Virginia’s on King for an extra $32. Tickets are $8.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Show begins at 7 p.m. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John Street.

Visit charlestonmusichall.com.

music starts at 8 p.m. Mount Pleasant Pier, 71 Harry Hallman Blvd. Visit ccprc.com.

07.10 - 07.11

Sweetgrass basket art is a prominent attraction in the Charleston area and an art form that originates in the Gullah people’s history, culture and traditions. The Sweetgrass Festival is a way to honor and celebrate this art with entertainment, activities and local basket makers given the opportunity to promote and sell their sweetgrass merchandise to all that join the festivities.

Admission is free. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront, 99 Harry Hallman Jr. Blvd. Visit experiencemountpleasant.com for more information.

Merry Makers

Come explore this pop-up market that is hosting local vendors, food and drinks.

With up to 50 vendors at the newly renovated South Carolina Society Hall, guests will be able to browse, shop and enjoy a lovely evening all the while enjoying the historic building. The market is free to the public and all proceeds will go to the Charleston Pro Bono Legal Services, a local nonprofit providing free civil legal services to low-income residents of the Charleston area. Admission is free. Open 12 p.m–6 p.m. on both days. South Carolina Society Hall, 72 Meeting Street.

07.11 Hot in the City: Drinks for a Cause

Do you like brews? Do you like to help preserve historical structures in Charleston? Then this event is for you! Edmund’s Oast Brewing Company is hosting Drayton Hall for a “Fun Fundraiser”—no cover, just beers, fun and fundraising. 5 p.m.–8 p.m.

Edmund’s Oast Brewing Company, 1595 King Street #115. Visit draytonhall.org to RSVP and for more information.

07.13 Mount Pleasant Pier’s Shaggin’ on the Cooper series

Get out your dancing shoes because the Shaggin’ on the Cooper series is back.

A variety of live music from local bands will be performing and beverages will be available for purchase on site. All ages are welcome to come dance in the open air under the stars. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 on site. Gates open at 7 p.m. and

07.13 15th Annual Sweetgrass Festival

07.19 Reggae Nights Summer Series

Nothing gets you more relaxed on a summer night than the Reggae Nights Summer Concerts. Join the Charleston-based band Well Charged and get ready for good times and great vibes. All are welcome to bring chairs or blankets for the outdoor concert series. Tickets are $10 for ages 13

CLOCKWISE: GARY COLEMAN; COURTESY OF CHARLESTON MUSIC HALL; COURTESY OF THE HALSEY INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART

Annual Sweetgrass Festival, The Summer of Potter, Bizarre Bazaar, and the Charleston Caribbean Jerk Festival.

07.20 Charleston Caribbean Jerk Festival

Caribbean food, culture and music—it can’t get much better than that! Bring your family and friends to this year’s 6th annual festival celebrating Caribbean culture and food. Feel free to bring blankets and chairs but, most importantly, bring smiles because you won’t be able to stop having fun at this event. Tickets are $10 in advance and $20 at the gate. 6 p.m–11 p.m. Riverfront Park, 1001 Everglades Avenue, North Charleston. Visit chsjerkfest. com for more information.

07.20 Charleston Zine Fest 4.0

Come celebrate independent publishers from comic book writers to illustrators and artists. You will be able to meet these creative individuals while shopping and supporting their work. There will be panel discussions and workshops among other events to look forward to. Free admission.

and $10 for children 6-12 years old. The event is 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. with ladybug distribution at 10 a.m. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, 3550 Ashley River Rd. Visit magnoliaplantation.com.

PUSH—An Event for Mocha Moms

Sister Summit, an organization that provides events that celebrate women of color and their children, is hosting an event for moms.

It’s a day to Pause, Unwind, Share and Harness your power (PUSH). Through seminars, a vendor marketplace, games and entertainment—it’s a playdate for moms, FINALLY. Tickets are $10. 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Exquis Event Center, North Charleston SC. Visit sistersummit.com for more information.

07.20 - 07.21 All-New Charleston Variety Show

From dancing and comedy skits to pop, rock and country favorites, this show is unlike any other. Charleston producers and entertainers, Brad and Jennifer Moranz have brought together a talented cast for this all-new show that will be performing three shows in two days. You won’t want to miss it! Ticket prices vary. Shows are at

XXX REGGAE NIGHTS

p.m. AR Workshop, 280 W. Coleman Blvd.

Suite B, Mt. Pleasant. Visit arworkshop.com.

07.26 Moonlight Mixer

The summer season is finally here which means the Moonlight Mixer series on Folly Beach is back and better than ever! Enjoy a night out with the family, your significant other or a group of friends as you dance the night away with DJ Jim Bowers. All are welcome to bring chairs but leave your drinks and coolers at home. Beverages will be available for purchase on site. Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 on site. 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Folly Beach Pier. Visit ccprc.com.

Charleston Margarita Festival

2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John XXX Street. Visit charlestonmusichall.com.

More than 20 margaritas to sample from the best bars and restaurants in Charleston, delicious food, beer and great music—it sounds like a dream. But it’s real and it’s the Charleston Margarita Festival. Grab your friends and get ready to have a fun–filled night along the waterfront. Get your tickets online before they’re sold out! $55 for Early Admission Tickets or $45 for General Admission. Early Admission is 6 p.m. and General Admission is 7 p.m. Brittlebank Park. For more information and to buy your tickets visit charlestonmargaritafest.com.

07.24

07.26 - 07.27

DIY For a Cause with Brides for Breasts

John’s Island Book Sale

LADYBUG RELEASE

11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, 161 Calhoun Street.

6th Annual Ladybug Release

LEFT TO RIGHT: COURTESY OF MAGNOLIA PLANTATION AND GARDEN; NATHAN CHAPLAIN

COURTESY OF THE HALSEY INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART

and up; free admission for ages 12 and under. Gates open at 7:30 p.m. Music begins at 8 p.m. James Island County Park. Visit ccprc.com for more information.

Experience the amazing event of releasing 200,000 ladybugs into the gardens at Magnolia Plantation. This beautiful displays purpose is to help control the population of other more harmful insects.

Not only will you be able to watch the ladybugs being released, but kids get to release their very own group of ladybugs. Exhibits will also be on display, as well as activities and face painting. But it gets better! Come dressed in your best ladybug costume as there will be a costume contest with prizes for the winners! Tickets are $20 for adults

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Do you like crafts and DIY activities? Then come to AR Workshop and choose from a variety of wood projects that you can customize, paint and take home with you! All proceeds will go to Brides for Breasts, an organization that has partnered with Keep a Breast Foundation and is focused on breast education, support and seeing an end to breast cancer. Don’t forget to bring your own wine or beer to sip while you enjoy a night out with friends! Prices vary. 6:30 p.m. - 9:30

If you like books and you’re on a budget, this is the event for you. Over 10,000 books, DVDs and CDs will be on sale for the low price range of $0.50 to $3. Open to the public. 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. on the 26th and 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on the 27th. John’s Island Regional Library, 3531 Maybank Highway.

Visit charlestonlibraryfriends.org.

07.27 Family Movie Day

Want to hang out with Elsa, Dory and Shrek

all in one day? Well Charleston, Music Hall’s Family Movie Day is your chance.

Charleston Music Hall is hosting three movies in one day for the whole family. The bar will be open for parents and popcorn, snacks, candy and drinks will be served for the kids. Special surprises will be given to those that dress up as their favorite characters from the films, so break out your favorite costumes! Tickets are $8 per film. Frozen will be shown at 12:00 p.m. Finding Nemo will be shown at 3 p.m. Shrek will be shown at 6 p.m. Door will open 30 minutes before each showing. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John Street. Visit charlestonmusichall.com.

Bizarre Bazaar

Do you like yard sales? Do you like art?

Then this Bazaar is for you! Original artwork, prints, posters and more collected over thirty years of exhibitions will be available for purchase. Prices will range from $5 to $5,000 while there will also be a chance for freebies. Like any good yard sale, haggling is encouraged so don’t forget to bring your cash, checks, credit cards and a love of art. Free admission. 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, 161 Calhoun Street. Visit halsey.cofc.edu for more information.

2nd Annual Charleston Grand African Ball

The Conscious Connection of Charleston will be hosting the 2nd Annual Charleston Grand African Ball at the Founders Hall. This event will unite Africans from many cultures: Gullah-Geechee natives, Caribbean Africans, Africans in North/ South/ Central America and all other Africans from home or abroad. With African themed cuisine, multiple DJs, live entertainment and so much more this event is sure to be a night to remember. Ticket prices vary. 6 p.m -11 p.m. Founders Hall, 1500 Old Towne Rd. Visit chsgrandafricanball.com for more information.

skirt . | july 2019 35

social

06. 25 .19

COURTESY OF THE SPOTTED PIG

Clockwise: Mary Edna Fraser, Cecelia Dailey; Paula Dezzutti, Polly Buxton, Mary Edna Fraser, Cecelia Dailey

“THE BATIK ART OF MARY EDNA FRASER” LAUNCH PARTY

SAMI FUENTES

Skirt Summer Series and Buxton Books hosted a cocktail style reception for the release of The Batik Art of Mary Edna Fraser, written by Cecelia Daly.

Guests had the chance to mingle with the author and artist, who both reside in the lowcountry. Signed books were available for purchase and Kendra Scott donated a beautiful raffle item. Light bites were provided by Dish & Design Catering and Events.

Local Choice Spirits provided wine and a signature summer cocktail. Visit skirt.com/Bookclub to learn about upcoming Skirt Summer Series events.

06.09.19 SKIRT BOOK CLUB WITH BUXTON BOOKS AT DOCKERY’S

JESSE MCCANN

Skirt Summer Series and Buxton Books hosted New York Times best-selling author Mary Alice Monroe for her official launch of The Summer Guests.

Attendees enjoyed a cocktail style event where they mingled with the author, enjoyed hor d’oeurves, sipped cocktails and received a signed copy of the book. Amazing raffle items provided by Diamonds Direct of Mount Pleasant, Erika Lynn Boutique & Studio and Charleston Fine Cabinetry.

Left to Right: Guests mingle at Dockery’s; Paula Dezzutti, Mary Alice Monroe

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skirt . | july 2019

COURTESY OF THE SPOTTED PIG

social

06.03.19 Striped Pig Distillery hosted the 2019 Founders Ball, celebrating Charleston’s entrepreneurial community.

Once a year, The Harbor Entrepreneur Center holds this special event to toast the achievements of the Lowcountry’s foremost business founders.

Left to right: Dave Brown, Matthew Pardieck; John Osborne, Pixie Paula

JESSE MCCANN

SAMI FUENTES

FOUNDERS BALL AT STRIPED PIG DISTILLERY

Clockwise: Mary Alice Monroe, Whitney Brenkus; Diamond Necklace provided by Diamonds Direct of Mount Pleasant; Mary Alice Monroe, Sylvia Folk; Mary Alice Monroe greets a guest

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You Youknow knowyour yourFAMILY. FAMILY.We Weknow knowSENIOR SENIORLIVING. LIVING. Together, Together, we we will will find find the the RIGHT RIGHT PLACE. PLACE.

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Joan host ofof Good Morning JoanLunden, Lunden,journalist, journalist,former former host Good MorningAmerica Americaand andsenior seniorliving livingadvocate. advocate.

Joan Lunden, journalist, former host of Good Morning America and senior living advocate.

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Bravely taking steps to change the world Raising awareness Raising our voices Working to remove resistance Cultivating community Doing the heart work We dance We breathe We dive in And go with the flow Daring to explore Our world expands Truths unfold Lessons are learned We do this With heads held high

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PAID ADVERTISING

locals Skirt believes in women supporting women. That's why we created this special advertising section to highlight small, local, women-run businesses. Join us in buying their products and using their services when you have the opportunity.

GOLDBUG ON SULLIVAN’S ISLAND

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GOLDBUG is a coastal lifestyle shop located in a sunlit nook on Sullivan’s Island. Mostly known for their inhouse line of jewelry, made on the island by owner Ashley Reid Martin, GOLDBUG has also fast become a go-to spot for standout resortwear and swimwear, as well as curated gifts for the modern beach lover.

At CorePower Yoga, studio manager Jackie Skinner leads a team of passionate and encouraging certified instructors teaching the incredible, life-changing things that happen when an intense workout is rooted in the mindfulness of yoga. Through a variety of classes in spa-like studios, our students experience CPY’s unique form of fitness.

FER CAGGIANO ART

FLUFF & CO

Fer Caggiano is a Brazilian born painter, who specializes in landscapes, still lifes and portraits.

Ranging from a traditional to modern style, Fer creates colorful, textured, impasto oil paintings that capture visions of the world she sees. Using her canvas as her window, she provides a bright, new perspective to showcase our beautiful world.

Consult. Design. Fabricate. Fluff & Co is a creative instrument of change designing in the collaborative fields of Products, Furniture & Interiors. Applying user-centered thinking, Fluff & Co is creating Designs for Daydreamers. We dream of beautiful products in beautiful places in a beautiful world. What do you dream of?

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J. MELISSA DESIGNS

CHARLESTON DOG WALKING CO.

BEADS & BRUSHSTROKES Can you believe 33 years?!! Serving third generation creatives who got started here (formerly Country Bumpkin.) Gazillion Beads (think: semi-precious, pearls, sterling, tribal, seeds,wire,etc.)

Only LOCALLY OWNED art supply source (think: oil paint, acrylic, canvas, watercolor, sketch, brushes,etc) Come start your creative venture! (Think: joy, relaxation,) Beginners assisted, Designers thrilled. countrybumpkinarts.com beadsandbrushstrokes beadsbrushstrokesbumpkin krife10480@aol.com

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DR. STEPHANIE ZGRAGGEN,

Local jewelry designer, Missy Newsom, created J. Melissa Designs with the "Made on Purpose" mission of providing a global connection to empower underprivileged children.

Each sale of her hand-wired designs and statement gemstone rings is helping to build a school in Mengo, Uganda, inspiring hope here and across the globe.

Charleston Dog Walking Co. is the premier provider of professional dog walking, sitting and transportation in Charleston County. Founded in 2010, CDWC leads the industry by providing credible and compassionate care of both dogs and cats while delivering a highly personalized experience for our clients. Follow our daily adventures!

I am a chiropractor, certified clinical nutritionist and female hormone expert. My mission is to help women reclaim their hormonal health and feminine vitality naturally so you feel sexy, energetic, and balanced. I teach you that your hormones don’t have to ruin your life and I'll show you how to take back control of your health, hormones and body.

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Haley Keisler Holzworth, owner of Hermosa Jewelry and a native to Charleston, SC, is influenced by her Southern lifestyle and the coastal landscapes of the Lowcountry. Located in the heart of Mt. Pleasant, Hermosa sells handcrafted jewelry and local Charleston gifts. Guaranteed to turn heads, Hermosa Jewelry is the ultimate accessory for any occasion. Haley also specializes in jewelry for the whole bridal party.

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WHITE LEAF

AFM DESIGNS

THE POWER-FILLED

ERIKA LYNN STUDIO & BOUTIQUE

White Leaf Provisions believes that healthy food starts with healthy soil.

They have created the first Biodynamic baby food in the USA. All of their products are 100% Demeter Biodynamic®, Organic, NON GMO and Regenerativelyl Farmed™. They are helping to heal the Earth that our kids will inherit.

Amy Moore is a South Carolina based interior designer and textile designer.

Her work is eclectic and lovely, while staying true to comfort, function, and beauty. Well defined and understated, she works with old and new memories when designing your interior space. Her extensive collection of original textile designs are fresh, sophisticated, and unpretentious.

WOMAN Kenya Dunn is a coach, motivational speaker and writer. She believes every person has undiscovered power within. Kenya created the Power-Filled Woman to offer you a pathway to success on your own terms. She offers masterclasses, personal coaching, and meeting facilitation.

Step into Erika Lynn Studio and Boutique in Belle Hall Shopping Center; immediately feel like you are walking the streets of Southern Italy. Watch Award winning designer, Erika Lynn, make her exotic leather handbags and accessories while shopping her collection of linen clothing and jewelry she has sourced from Italy.

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Cristina Swinney is a Charlestonbased kitchen and interior designer who takes pride in her ability to transform spaces by marrying conceptual and uniquely designed ideas that is exclusive to each of her clients. Her concept is to create "chef inspired" kitchens with budget, functionality, and time frame in mind.

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PRIVATE TOURS

PRIVATE EVENTS

SPONSORSHIPS

Get an in-depth look at the South Carolina Distillery of the Year, Striped Pig Distillery, including meeting the distillers, learning about our distilling process and equipment, and enjoying our award-winning spirits in the tasting room.

With our award-winning distillery and spirits, we can accommodate team building events, cocktail receptions, corporate events, fundraisers, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and more for up to 150 people. We also work with exceptional local catering talent to meet any culinary needs.

At Local Choice Spirits our community will always come first and that is why we love to be involved in community events. If you are hosting a party, festival or special occasion, contact us about stocking the bar with our locally crafted spirits!

Photo Courtesy of: Sean Money and Elizabeth Fay

Photo Courtesy of: Brooke Stevens Photography

Call Us: 843-276-3201 | Email Us: info@localchoice.us | Visit Us: localchoicespirits.com | Join Us: 2225 Old School Drive, Charleston, SC 29405