CB2 MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2025

DIARY OF A DANCE MOM

LENNIE + REMI:

Clothing for Every Adventure

BRIMS ON THE BLUFF

CB2 FASHION Sartorial Season has Arrived!

THE HILTON HEAD LANTERN PARADE RETURNS

Treasurer’s Office is revolutionizing how local government

GENIUSES AT WORK

Ambassador of Buzz

Maggie Marie Washo

Master of Coin

Marion Elizabeth Bowser

Chief Chatter

Kim Conrad Crouch

Sales Rockstar

“Just Kandace” Cunningham

Head of Schmoozing Morgan Ambler

Director of Social Media Jevon Daly

Mascot in Training

Buoy Conrad Crouch Pritchard

The Gatekeepers

Greta Von Bowser

Vincent Von Bowser

Comic Sans Annihilator

Catherine Davies

Error Eradicator

Lynne Cope Hummell

Aspiring Novelists

Jesse Blanco

Courtney Hampson

Lynne Cope Hummell

Barry Kaufman

Brooke Peck

Alan Perry

Heather Quinn

Cheryl Ricer

Larry Toomer

Sheila Tucker

Lighting Experts

Photography by M.Kat

Photography by Brooke Peck

Elea Chateau Photography

Photography by Taylor Kaufmann

Find Us Here

PO Box 22949

Hilton Head Island, SC 29925

843.816.6247

maggie@ch2cb2magazine.com

EDITOR'S

2025

Dog Poop & Old Boats

When you’re running a business, you’re constantly looking for feedback. You want some sort of engagement with your customers to let you know you’re on the right track.

For a boutique owner, if a particular dress sells out in two days once it hits the floor, you know you chose well eight months ago when you trekked up to NYC to pick out holiday items while the first bloom of spring was hitting the Lowcountry.

For a restaurant owner, it’s butts in seats. If there is a restaurant you always have to make a reservation at weeks in advance, there’s a pretty good chance they’ve cornered the market on food, ambiance, and service (or they only have 10 tables). ;-)

Writing letters to editors went out with the tide 20 years ago, so I like to judge interest by comments and shares on our Facebook page, where you can find just about everything we print in the magazine with some fun extras throughout the month. I like to think that after a few decades doing this, I know what will resonate, but sometimes I am just flat out surprised.

That happened last month when I shared Bluffton Mayor Larry Toomer’s monthly column, in which he encouraged his constituency to pick up after their dogs – for the sake of our waterways (and everyone who has ever accidentally stepped in dog poo.) While I fully

endorse this sentiment, I was shocked at how quickly it won the internet that day. I watched in amazement as his post on CH2’s Facebook page hit 100,000 views in less than three days. I called Jevon Daly and told him he needed to write a funny song about picking up your dog’s droppings ASAP.

Then it happened again the next day, when I shared Alan Perry’s column about the Town of Hilton Head stepping up and removing 11 abandoned boats that have been littering our waterways for years. The internet again responded positively to the message.

So, what did this teach me? Our residents really care about keeping our environment and waterways pristine. And the mayors’ columns are extremely well read. Maybe I should move them up to the front of the magazine.

Wishing y’all a lovely Thanksgiving holiday. I am thankful for your friendship, readership, and support throughout the years!

P.S. Pick up the Poop. Funny video coming soon. 

MAGGIE WASHO Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

Port Royal Community Charitable Fund, a community fund administered by CFL, awards grants to nonprofits.

Bob Elliott, co-founder of SCNRI, receives the Joan and Wade Webster Community Impact Award at CFL's Annual Community Meeting.

Women in Philanthropy, a giving circle of CFL who has granted over $1.3 million to nonprofits, at their fall luncheon.

Article by Barry Kaufman

For Giving’s Sake

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry has long history of connecting people, resources, and needs

It’s an organization that we often hear about, and always in a positive way. Whether it is scholarship presentation at a high school, a generous donor realizing their philanthropic dreams, or a residential community supporting local nonprofits, it is likely that Community Foundation of the Lowcountry (CFL) played a key role.

CFL, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was created in 1994 as a result of the sale of Hilton Head Hospital, and originally served only Hilton Head Island.

In 2001, the CFL Board of Trustees voted to expand the service region to four counties – Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper.

While many residents have heard of CFL, they might not be aware of all the impactful giving

options, organizational support, and resources provided by the dedicated staff.

“Many people only know a fraction of what CFL offers,” said Rob Ennamorato, vice president of marketing and communications. “Our goal is to inform those living in the four-county region that we are a multifaceted organization. We offer comprehensive donor services, where a person, group or business can set up a charitable fund with us, and we offer a critical community investment component that provides grants and training opportunities to local nonprofits.”

As the vice president of development and donor services, Emmy Rooney, along with a pair of associates, works directly with donors to provide all

the tools and support they need to give generously and effectively. That personalized service has translated to more than 540 charitable funds administered by CFL.

“It’s a broad category of donors. It could be an individual, a couple, a family, a giving circle, a nonprofit, a private foundation, or a group with a charitable idea. … We have 15 different residential communities we work with, and a number of corporations that want to do their part in the community,” Rooney said. “Once the fund is established, CFL provides one-on-one support and guidance to help the charitable fund succeed.”

One key advantage to setting up a charitable fund with CFL is the flexibility the donor has, both in the type of charitable fund (donor advised, scholarship, designated, field of interest) and the focus of the fund (health and

A panel discussion at CFL's Housing Symposium

human services, education, community development, environmental, animal welfare, the arts, etc.). An essential element of donor services is assisting donors with both lifetime and planned giving to create charitable legacies through endowments. This allows a donor to continue supporting organizations and causes long after their lifetime.

“We do a lot of detailed research for the donor, whether that’s looking at the financials of an organization or at who they serve,” Rooney said. “We can align the local need with the donor’s interest. … And donors love our scholarship funds because we customize the scholarship to their personal preferences. The donor is heavily involved in establishing the scholarship guidelines.”

Debbie Cahoon, vice president of community investment, and her team manage CFL’s grants programs, scholarships, and nonprofit training workshops. The positive impact of CFL’s community investment is undeniable

–

more than $125 million awarded in grants to local organizations and more than $11.6 million distributed in scholarships to deserving students since CFL’s inception.

“Since I started working at CFL 12 years ago, we’ve more than doubled our impact in terms of grants and scholarships,” Cahoon said. “Many nonprofit leaders have shared that the Community Foundation’s support has been pivotal to their ability to serve the community. We consider these nonprofits important partners. It’s very synergistic from my perspective.”

One of the most important aspects of the community investment department is the training workshops offered to local nonprofit leadership, which help participants navigate the many challenges of nonprofit capacity building. In much the same way that donor services support those who give, community investment supports those who serve the community.

“We were incredibly fortunate to have generous donors Dave and Patty Ekedahl step forward to make nonprofit capacity building a priority at CFL, with the creation of the Ekedahl Center for Nonprofit Excellence in 2024,” Cahoon said. “In just over a year, the center has had hundreds of nonprofit staff and board leadership participate in workshops that focus on staff management, succession planning, AI, and much more. We have received really positive feedback from the nonprofit participants.”

Just when you think you have learned everything about CFL, you discover that there is even more.

Over the past few years, CFL has taken a leadership role in the local workforce housing crisis. President and CEO Scott Wierman (who is retiring at end of this calendar year after five stellar years) convened a meeting in 2022 between interested entities working on affordable housing, which eventually led to the creation of the Lowcountry Affordable Housing Coalition. CFL has also hosted housing symposiums and created an Affordable Workforce Housing Fund that supports housing initiatives.

In 2024, CFL pledged altruistic capital to Coastal Community Development Corporation (CCDC) for the purchase of housing units that are rented to qualified people, who work in Bluffton or Hilton Head, at reasonable rates.

CFL has also gained a reputation as a trusted resource in the community for donors, nonprofits, public officials, municipalities, and businesses. This led to a partnership with Lowcountry Council of Governments and the creation of LowcountryCommunityIndicators. org, a data-driven website focused on important topics in Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties.

One prominent takeaway from speaking with Community Foundation of the Lowcountry staff, and learning more about everything CFL offers, is that this is an organization that has made it a priority to help donors maximize their giving and help nonprofits reach more people in need.

“We’re fortunate enough to live in a community where people care,” Rooney said. “And I still think there are a lot of opportunities for people to learn how the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry can be a partner in their own charitable giving.”

To learn more about CFL, visit cf-lowcountry.org or call (843) 681-9100. 

ARTICLE BY CHERYL RICER

WALKING WITH HOPE: Community Unites Against Suicide

Sixteen years ago, Hilton Head mother Vanessa faced the unimaginable: losing a child to suicide. Out of her grief grew a mission that has not only honored her son’s memory but also saved countless lives across the Lowcountry. In 2009, Vanessa re-launched the Hilton Head-Bluffton chapter of the Out of the Darkness Walks, part of the nationwide effort led by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).

“The mission of AFSP is simple yet powerful: to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide,” Vanessa said.

“For me, it’s personal. I began the walk as a mother who lost her child. That pain will never go away, but creating this walk gives it purpose.”

What began as a small gathering has become a pillar of community support, awareness, and fundraising, bringing together survivors, advocates, families, and those struggling with personal issues in a shared journey toward healing.

On October 18, the Hilton Head community once again came together at Shelter Cove Community Park for the Out of the Darkness Walk. Hundreds joined in solidarity,

Know the Warning Signs of Suicide

Changes in behavior, mood, or talk, especially after a painful event, loss, or major life change—can signal risk. Watch for:

• Talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, or being a burden

• Withdrawing from family, friends, or activities

• Sleeping too much or too little

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs

• Searching for ways to end their life

• Giving away prized possessions

• Visiting or calling to say goodbye

• Extreme fatigue or loss of interest

• Sudden mood shifts: depression, anxiety, irritability, or anger

• Feelings of humiliation, shame, or unbearable pain

• Aggression or agitation

• A sudden sense of calm or relief after a dark period

If you notice these signs, don’t stay silent. Ask directly, listen with compassion, and connect them to help.

carrying photographs of loved ones, pinning names to a memory board, and walking in teams clad in matching shirts. Some wore buttons with photos of those they’ve lost.

“Everyone should bring a picture of their loved one,” said Becky, who lost her son to suicide seven years ago. “It’s a way to keep their memory alive while showing that no one walks this path alone.”

The one-mile walk is far more than a symbolic gesture. It raises awareness, reduces stigma, and funds AFSP’s life-saving work. Donations remain open through the end of the year, ensuring that even those who couldn’t attend can still contribute to the cause.

A Crisis Close to Home

While suicide might seem like a distant tragedy, Vanessa stresses that it is very much a local issue.

“Last year alone, we had five or six suicides here on Hilton Head just in the month before the walk,” Becky said. “It doesn’t always make the news, but it’s happening – and that’s why this work matters.”

The statistics are sobering. In 2023, 49,316 Americans died by suicide. South Carolina accounted for 818 of those deaths, ranking 33rd nationally. “We can do better,” Vanessa said.

Equally troubling are the means. “Sixty-five percent of suicides involve firearms,” Vanessa said. “That number alone should tell us how urgent this issue is.”

The funds raised through the Out of the Darkness Walk support research, education, advocacy, and community programs. Some of the most impactful include:

• Talk Saves Lives: A 45-minute training available online or in-person that equips participants with the basics of suicide prevention.

• SafeTALK: A more in-depth, threehour program teaching participants how to recognize warning signs and connect individuals to help.

• More Than Sad: A school-based program designed for high school students to recognize personal struggles and seek support.

“I’m trained to deliver both Talk Saves Lives and SafeTALK,” Vanessa said. “They give everyday people the tools to step in, ask the right questions, and possibly save a life.”

Local partnerships also play a key role. The South Carolina Department of Mental Health provides accessible counseling services, including Coastal Empire Mental Health in Hilton Head. National hotlines and online tools, like the 988 national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, hope.connectsyou.org, and hope. connectsSCkids.org, connect individuals in South Carolina directly with trained counselors – sometimes within minutes.

For LGBTQ+ youth, resources like The Trevor Project offer specialized, life-saving support.

“Parents, teachers, and friends need to know where to turn,” Vanessa says. “These resources are there – we just need to spread the word.”

Perhaps the most important lesson Vanessa and Becky share is the courage to confront the uncomfortable by asking questions.

“It’s hard to look someone you love in the eye and ask, ‘Are you thinking about suicide?’” Vanessa said. “But you have to. A suicidal person will often tell you the truth. What’s dangerous is when we tiptoe around the subject.”

She recalls the regret of never directly asking her own son. “I know he would have told me,” she said softly. “That’s why I train others to do what I couldn’t.”

Warning signs can include verbal cues, social media posts, withdrawing from friends and family, or giving away prized possessions. “The most dangerous thing you can do is keep it a secret,” Vanessa said. “If someone tells you not to say anything, that’s exactly when you must.”

Beyond education and statistics, the Out of the Darkness Walk is about connection. For one afternoon each fall, the community unites in compassion and remembrance. Survivors share stories, neighbors extend support, and strangers become allies.

“The walk shows people they’re not alone,” Becky said. “When you see hundreds of people gathered – each carrying a face, a name, a memory – you realize how many lives are touched by suicide. It’s heartbreaking, but it’s also healing.”

This sense of solidarity ripples outward, breaking down the stigma that keeps too many from seeking help. “Every conversation, every sign posted, every training session – it all moves us closer to a world where suicide is no longer a leading cause of death,” Vanessa said.

Looking Ahead

Though the October walk has ended, the work continues year-round. Donations continue to be accepted through December, and training programs are available for schools, workplaces, and faith communities. Local leaders are also working to expand the number of 988 signage installations across Hilton Head, ensuring that anyone in crisis knows help is just a call away.

“It doesn’t stop when the walk ends,” Vanessa said. “That’s just the beginning. Each dollar raised, each person trained, each resource shared – those are the victories we celebrate every day.”

“My hope is that one day, no mother, father, brother, sister, or friend will have to walk in our shoes,” Becky said. “Until then, we keep walking together.”

At its heart, the Out of the Darkness Walk is not about walking one mile on one afternoon. It’s about building a future where every life is valued, every voice is heard, and no one suffers in silence.

“Hope,” Vanessa said, “is what keeps us going.” 

How to Help

• Donate: Contributions are accepted through the end of the year at AFSP.org/HiltonHead.

• Get Trained: Explore Talk Saves Lives, SafeTALK, and More Than Sad programs at AFSP.org.

• Reach Out: If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Article by Cheryl Ricer

Photography by M.Kat

NEIGHBORHOOD OUTREACH CONNECTION

Creating an Even Playing Field

On a warm afternoon on Hilton Head Island, children dash across a soccer field and climb on playground equipment at The Oaks apartment complex. Families gather nearby, talking and laughing, and the atmosphere is one of stability and pride. For longtime residents, it’s almost hard to remember that just 18 years ago, The Oaks was known for poverty, crime, and low property values.

That transformation – driven by the Neighborhood Outreach Connection (NOC) – is more than just a local success story. For founder Dr. Narendra P. Sharma, it represents the very heart of his vision: empowering communities to create an even playing field so families in poverty can pursue the American Dream.

Sharma spent 32 years at the World Bank, traveling across Asia, Latin America, and Africa. He saw firsthand both the crushing weight of poverty and the hope of grassroots change. Along the way, he met figures like Mother Teresa and learned the power of compassion coupled with practical solutions.

When he retired to Hilton Head in 2005, Sharma learned quickly that even amid affluence, pockets of poverty were hidden in plain sight. His global experiences and his upbringing in the Fiji Islands, where his parents modeled compassion and integrity, came together in a new purpose.

“Why not apply all the things that I have learned in my development work throughout the world?” he recalled asking himself. “Perhaps I can do that here locally a lot, pulling in all my experiences … and that gave birth to what I created in 2008.”

Teaching People How to Fish

At the core of NOC is a philosophy of empowerment. “If you teach people how to fish, they become independent, self-reliant, and have dignity,” Sharma said.

This approach sets NOC apart from traditional topdown models. Rather than waiting for families to seek help, NOC connects with neighborhoods, setting up learning centers inside apartment complexes or adjacent to target neighborhoods, building trust through presence. “Instead of them knocking on your door, we were knocking on their door,” Sharma said.

The Oaks apartment complex was where NOC’s vision first came alive. In 2008, the homeowners association invited Sharma to establish an after-school and summer learning program for local children. What began as a single center grew into a 12-year transformation that reshaped the entire community.

At that time, The Oaks was plagued by crime, instability, and economic hardship. Rather than start with expensive capital projects, NOC spent months listening to residents, identifying priorities, and fostering collaboration. Early requests included a playground and a soccer field. With support from local churches, community partners, and the homeowners association, those amenities were built, not just for residents, but with them. Families helped refurbish three apartments for learning centers, organized community events, and formed associations that gave them a voice in shaping their future.

Over the years, NOC’s programs at The Oaks expanded. Certified teachers and volunteers offered tutoring and homework help and enrichment activities for personal development. Health screenings and wellness workshops came directly into the neighborhood through partnerships with Beaufort Memorial Hospital, Hilton Head Hospital, Volunteers in Medicine, the local Lions Club, and the South Carolina Department of Health. Workforce training and adult education helped residents strengthen their economic prospects.

The results were profound. NOC invested more than $1 million between 2008 and 2020, raising funds through grants and private donations. Crime rates fell, property values rose, and more than 6,000 people benefited from NOC’s programs, Students graduated, families found stability, and The Oaks itself became a safer, stronger, more vibrant place to live. In 2020, NOC relocated its learning center, adjacent to The Oaks apartments and serving several nearby neighborhoods to help children and families in need.

“The Oaks is a classic case of showing that you can lift not only individuals and families but also an entire community,” Sharma said. Today, the thriving neighborhood stands as a testament to what’s possible when trust, partnerships, and persistence align.

Education and Health Care

While The Oaks illustrates the integrated community development model, education remains NOC’s heartbeat. Students in NOC’s after-school and summer programs receive scholarships, with the expectation that academics come first. “Our centers are not daycare,” Sharma said. “Kids

Children and NOC field team celebrating completion of the fall term at NOC's learning center in Bluffton.

Children and NOC staff sharing the joy of completing an academic year successfully at NOC's learning center in Beaufort.

are here to learn, to grow, and to excel in school. If they want to play, they need to go somewhere else.”

The outcomes speak for themselves: More than 90% of the children served show measurable progress in reading and math. Some earn scholarships to private schools; others become the first in their families to attend college. One student, Jennie, joined NOC programs as a kindergartner, later graduated high school, earned a diploma, and now is productively employed in business.

“Education creates pathways for progress,” Sharma said. “It opens the door to the future.”

In the neighborhoods NOC serves, health care is often out of reach. Chronic conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes are common, compounded by limited access to affordable care. NOC’s solution is to bring health care to the community.

Through partnerships with hospitals, nonprofits, and civic groups, NOC hosts mobile health screenings for vision, dental care, hypertension, diabetes, and even cancer. Wellness workshops encourage healthier lifestyles. “If you want to lift people out of poverty, you have to create pathways for them to be healthy,” Sharma said. “When

NEIGHBORHOOD OUTREACH CONNECTION BY THE NUMBERS

Founded: 2008; currently operates 5 centers in Beaufort County

Founder: Dr. Narendra P. Sharma, PhD

Core Values: Integrity • Compassion • Commitment

Investment at The Oaks: $1,000,000 over 12 years

Lives Impacted at The Oaks: 6,000+ residents

Students Served Annually: 700+ through education/enrichment programs over 3 terms

Student Progress: 90%+ show measurable growth in reading and math

Financial Stewardship: 90% of every dollar to frontline programs; <10% overhead

Leveraged Impact: For every $1 in health, $7-$8 in partner services

National Recognition: GuideStar Platinum

Transparency • 4 Stars Charity Navigator

they’re healthy, they’re productive in the workplace. When a child is healthy, they perform better in school.”

For adults, NOC offers programs in financial literacy, computer skills, and entrepreneurship. Many residents already possess talent, but not the business knowledge to succeed. NOC bridges that gap.

One family, for example, had strong construction skills but no experience in licensing or financial management. With NOC’s guidance, they formalized their business, grew it into a viable enterprise, and bought a home. “That’s what the American Dream is about,” Sharma said.

Partnerships and Trust

Central to NOC’s model is collaboration. Partnerships with schools, churches, health providers, owners’ association, public agencies, townships, and businesses expand capacity and services. Island Lutheran Church, for instance, hosts a learning center that serves children from nearby trailer parks. Beaufort Memorial Hospital has sent mobile units into neighborhoods for nearly two decades.

But it all begins with trust. At The Oaks, residents wanted a playground before anything else. By listening and responding, NOC demonstrated it was a trustworthy partner. “That was the hook,” Sharma said. “They realized we were listening.”

NOC’s effectiveness is matched by its efficiency. By streamlining operations and reducing overhead to less than 10%, NOC ensures that 90 cents of every dollar goes directly to frontline programs. Partnerships multiply impact: Every $1 invested in health care leverages $7 to $8 in partner services.

These results have earned national recognition, including platinum-level transparency from GuideStar and four stars from Charity Navigator. But for Sharma, the real measure of sustainability is long-term transformation. “It takes 12 years to educate a child,” he said. “Real change doesn’t happen overnight. We make that clear to our funders and partners.”

As NOC approaches its 20th year, Sharma is preparing for the future with the help of NOC’s executive director, Julie Palma, and a proactive board. Plans are underway for a new center in Bluffton and expansion north of the Broad River. The organization has already franchised once, in Virginia, and Sharma sees potential for national replication.

“This model is a well-kept secret,” he said. “But it has tremendous potential to transform communities across the country.”

For Sharma, recognition and awards are less important than results. What motivates him most are the small victories: a child proudly reporting good grades, a family buying their first home, a neighborhood regaining stability.

“If I could leave one legacy message for the children and families NOC serves, it would be this: Put education first,” he said. “Education creates pathways for economic and social progress – and happiness.” 

Article by Barry Kaufman

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

The Village at Wexford’s Wine Down Wednesdays help build community

Generally speaking, you don’t really need much of an extra incentive to pay a visit to The Village at Wexford. Set at the island’s very heart, its mix of shops and restaurants is matched only by the sense of community it engenders.

You won’t find a lot of chains or big boxes here. Instead, you’ll find merchants who live and work here in the Lowcountry, setting out their shingles and weaving themselves into the fabric of our community.

But if you do need extra incentive, you can always pair your next visit with a robust red or a crisp white and a chance to support deserving charities around the island. You just have to be there during Wine Down Wednesday, a quarterly event that sees merchants from across the plaza offering special deals along with tastings of sophisticated wines.

Along with the sounds of live music and the hum of a community coming together, these special events embrace a different deserving organization each time. Proceeds raised go to that month’s recipient, making it a win-win for everyone involved.

“We’re a very tight-knit community, not just within The Village at Wexford, but across the island,” said Mark Goodman, president of the Village at Wexford Merchants Association and owner of The Hair Designers. “We’re all about giving back because the island has taken such good care of us.”

Since launching the event in 2018, The Village at Wexford has helped raise roughly $75,000 for charities including Pockets Full of Sunshine, the Boys & Girls Club, Hilton Head Heroes, Second Helpings, Meals on Wheels, and the Sea Turtle Patrol. Their next beneficiary, Hilton Head Humane, will be on hand for the December 3 Wine Down Wednesday with plenty of adoptable dogs.

“Wexford merchants have long been dedicated champions of Hilton Head Humane, and their continued support means the world to us,” said Fran Gerthoffer, Hilton Head Humane executive director. “Being included in Wine Down Wednesday is yet another exciting opportunity to collaborate – and we’re truly grateful for their unwavering generosity over the years.”

The merchants at The Village at Wexford are only too happy to oblige.

“It’s a fun, community-focused and charity-focused event that gives great exposure to the businesses in Wexford,” said Meredith Taylor, owner of Gifted Hilton Head and one of the organizers of Wine Down Wednesday. “We’re very proud of what we’ve been able to do, and we’ve been able to donate between $10,000 and $13,000 every year. For a local shopping center, that’s really nice.”

And it’s not just the charities that have something to look forward to. A $15 ticket gets you in for a progressive wine tasting that winds through the village, stopping at shops and restaurants along the way to fill your glass and see the special events each has planned. Sometimes it’s book signings from local authors at Island Child or Gifted Hilton Head, chef demonstrations at Le Cookery, or trunk shows at Quinn’s Diamond Jewelers. Participating restaurants in the village come through as well with unique offerings and specials during the event.

“Each business has tasty appetizers, and many will host their own smaller events inside,” Taylor said. “Everyone does something different. It’s truly such a fun event and it sells out every time.”

For more information on the Wine Down Wednesday event on December 3, visit villageatwexford.com. 

Article by Barry Kaufman . Photography by M.Kat

People Serving People

Treasurer’s Office is revolutionizing how local government can work

On a recent Tuesday morning, the leadership team at the Beaufort County Treasurer’s Office would be forgiven if they were content to merely stumble into work, ready for a day of watching the clock. They had, after all, just finished their annual delinquent tax auction the day before.

A herculean task that involves coordinating a small army of people and wading through auctioning millions of dollars’ worth of property, the tax sale is this team’s Super Bowl. The difference is that very few NFL players would run into the locker room the next day, ready to strap on the pads and get right back at it.

This team, though, is different. Where the average worker might struggle to be productive the day after leaving it all on the field, these folks are already brimming over with energy before anyone’s turned on the coffee pot. The hum of conversation, a cross between post-mortem examination of the tax sale

and simple “happy to be here” vibes, is a palpable example of the energy that sets them apart.

“What we’re most proud of is that we defy what most people think of as a stereotypical government office,” said Treasurer Maria Walls, settling into a seat at the edge of the meeting that’s coalescing. As with all their meetings, this one was called only when a clear purpose had been determined.

They will proudly tell you that this is a team that doesn’t do pointless meetings. If it could have been an email, it will have been an email. “When you think of government, most people don't think of innovation; they don’t think of enthusiasm,” Walls said. “They don’t think of empowerment and ownership and passion. But those are all things that we attribute to ourselves. They are our mission. They are our core values.”

That’s something even the most ambitious private sector managers struggle with, but here, it’s second nature. Because in the Treasurer’s Office, you’ll quickly find that “bureaucracy” is a slur. Instead, this is a team

that has carved itself down to its core values and lets those speak for themselves. Does it occasionally sound like you’ve stumbled into a cult whose deity is customer service? Occasionally, and they’ll be the first to offer up a lighthearted joke about it.

But then you hear this team speak about their work, and you realize it’s no cult. It’s a culture, and each member embraces it with their whole heart. The newest member of the team, Operations Manager Chris Mitchell, can testify what a difference this mindset makes in his work.

“I’m an active-duty Air Force veteran, and I’ve done about 15 years in management and executive management in the private sector. I haven’t seen this type of thing since I was in the Air Force,” he said. “I’m coming up on a month and I keep waiting to find out that it’s not genuine, but it really is. Everyone buys in and it’s been amazing to be part of a group with this much passion, collaboration, communication, and leadership.”

While the entire office has made this ethos their own, from the leadership team to the folks at the front desk and on the front lines, it began in earnest when Walls took over. It was her intention from Day One to transform an office that had often struggled with earning public faith, and she approached it by introducing private sectorstyle accountability through 360-degree performance reviews, ownership through individual empowerment, and results through rigorous buy-in.

Having been a part of the Treasurer’s Office since before Walls arrived, tax collector Kimberly Chesney has seen those results firsthand.

“When I started, I was at the Bluffton office and I would do everything in my power not to have to call the main office for help, because those of us at the customer service level almost felt like a burden,” she said. “When Maria came on, it was instantly different, getting those things fixed and everything that came with it. I don’t even know how I could work anywhere else after being a part of this.”

“It’s really organic,” added Courtney Coffey, assistant deputy treasurer. “It’s not an end game, it’s more like a journey. It’s working towards growing and serving and you can inspire others to participate in it, even if it’s baby steps. … It’s not something you can

pretend. It’s who you are, and that’s so different from where I came from.”

Like several members of the team, Coffey works remotely. Calling into the meeting and appearing on a TV screen at the front of the room, she is able to interact seamlessly with everyone else while still achieving the efficiency she’s come to expect from herself.

Walls’ championing of the work from home (WFH) model has earned a few critics at the county level, but it’s impossible to ignore the kind of talent it’s allowed her to retain.

Executive Assistant Jennie Stanek, referred to as “the backbone” by her teammates, is a great example of this. As a military spouse, she’s hung her hat in locations from the Lowcountry to California without skipping a beat at work. This particular Tuesday sees her spending a day in the office, far from her North Carolina home, as she wraps up tax sale details.

“I was hired when we were stationed here, and having the opportunity to continue my career without having to quit my job every three years has been life-changing,” she said. “Everyone is so excited to work here and it makes you excited, too.”

Stanek admits that the initial interview process, which is extensive by necessity – since the team lives and dies by its buy-in, did leave her initially confused.

“Jeff (DeLoach) was in the interview process, and he was so excited to talk about the culture, what we do and who we are, and I left here thinking he was crazy,” she said with a laugh (which DeLoach reciprocated). “But we all love it here.”

“You have to be willing to hire for culture and fire for culture,” said DeLoach, who is deputy tax collector. “I came in in 2018 when we were figuring this out, but I could see then things were changing. Now I’ve witnessed this evolution where we’re all so passionate about it. I mean, we need tissues sometimes.”

He doesn’t realize it when he says it, but his face has been printed out and taped to the tissue box at the center of the office. Clearly there’s an inside joke, because as soon as that’s revealed, the room erupts in laughter. Theirs is a culture that has made work a joy for each of them, but more to the point, it’s allowed them to make their work a joy for those they serve. No one likes paying taxes. But if you can make the experience of doing so slightly less painful, it’s worth the occasional tissue.

“I spent 15 years in government and municipalities before coming here and, at first, I was asking, ‘Who brings the Kool Aid every day?’ There was no way everybody was this happy,” said Deputy Treasurer Tanya Ward. “Once I realized this was genuine, I was all for it. I know it sounds crazy, but this is really who we are. … We’re passionate about everything we do. Whether it’s a phone call or a customer coming in, we all want them to have the best experience possible. That’s our core value.”

And those core values have created a team that approaches government in a way that dares to be as efficient for its customers as it is rewarding for its employees. In a world where “government office” is too often shorthand for slow and uninspired, the Treasurer’s Office isn’t waiting for someone else to fix government – they’re showing Beaufort County how it’s done.

To learn more about the office and how it operates, visit beaufortcountytreasurer. com. 

Bigger, Better, Brighter:

HOWARD HANNA ALLEN TATE EXPANDS IN THE LOWCOUNTRY

Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate, the leading real estate brand in the Carolinas and the No. 1 family-owned real estate company in the country, recently expanded its footprint in the Lowcountry and Coastal Georgia with the acquisition of Coastal Properties.

The acquisition includes five offices on Hilton Head Island and in Beaufort, Bluffton, Savannah and Sun City/ Okatie, with more than 160 agents and employees.

In October 2024, Howard Hanna Allen Tate acquired Alliance Group Realty, marking the company’s entry into the region with offices on Hilton Head and in Bluffton.

The combined companies will operate as one unified brand, Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate, and will offer transformational advantages for real estate agents and clients – connecting the Lowcountry and Coastal Georgia with key feeder markets and relocating buyers in the Northeast.

Gary Scott, president of Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate, addressed the most common questions he’s hearing from clients about the Lowcountry real estate market.

Q: What’s happening with the Lowcountry’s real estate market right now?

A: We’re seeing some really interesting shifts that suggest the market is finding more balance. On Hilton Head, listings are up 26% from Q3 2024, and up 35% in Bluffton. Buyers are making thoughtful decisions, with listings in the region averaging 11 showings in Q3 2025.

Q: How is this affecting buyers?

A: Buyers are definitely feeling less pressure. Homes are staying on the market longer – about 77 days now vs. 60 days in 2024 on Hilton Head and 69 days vs. 55 days in Bluffton. While we're still technically in a seller’s market with about four months’ supply of inventory, buyers aren't having to make split-second decisions anymore. That said, I always advise buyers to get their financing secured upfront, as well-priced, well-maintained homes are still moving quickly.

Q: Are prices still going up?

A: On Hilton Head, prices continue to rise, with our average sale price hitting $1,036,951 in Q3 2025 – up 12.4% from last year. In Bluffton, the average price dipped about 9% from last year, to an average sale price of $702,132 in Q3 2025. The list-to-close ratio has remained virtually unchanged at 94.6% in Hilton Head and has decreased slightly, from 97% to 96% in Bluffton.

Q: What’s the biggest mistake sellers are making right now?

A: Pricing strategy, without question. When sellers overprice initially, they often end up selling for less than

they could have gotten with correct pricing from the start. Buyers become suspicious when they see price drops and extended market time.

Q: What should sellers do in this environment?

A: Price your home right from day one. Work with an agent who understands current market dynamics and can provide a realistic pricing strategy based on recent comparable sales. The homes that are priced correctly are still selling quickly and in fact, in some cases, we’re still seeing multiple offers.

Q: Where do you see the market heading?

A: We’re moving toward a more balanced market, which is healthy for everyone. Buyers have more inventory and time to make decisions, while sellers who price appropriately can still achieve strong results. It’s really about working with experienced professionals who understand these shifting dynamics.

(Statistics based on year-over-year market data, July 1-September 30, 2025.)

For expert guidance navigating the Lowcountry’s evolving real estate market, contact Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate or visit howardhannatate.com. 

Gary Scott, President of Howard Hanna Allen Tate

Article by Barry Kaufman . Photography by Tristyn Sheaffer

An Elevated Experience

Second story living over jaw-dropping outdoor spaces creates atmosphere of wonder

Acustom house is so much more than just timbers, concrete, stone, and metal. It’s the sum of all the knowledge that goes into it: The architect, who understands the subtle language spoken in the angles of a roofline or the span of a doorframe; the builder, whose craft is written in solid forms, rugged durability and studied craftsmanship; and the owners, who put the final touches on the entire design, molding the final result into something that speaks to them.

This Palmetto Dunes home is a free-standing testament to that melding of minds, and the masterpiece their shared creativity created.

“This is the fourth project we’ve done with Tony and Karen Smaldino, a melding of minds and creativity resulting in a level up from anything we've done before,” said Tristan O’Grady, listing agent with COAST Brokered by eXp Realty. “It has a real quality feel with a coastal elegance that cuts a nice upmarket profile.”

With its elevated views across the 11-mile lagoon toward the 15th green at Robert Trent Jones and down the 16th fairway, the lot itself provided the perfect canvas for creating an elevated experience.

“We picked that lot because it’s a nice, big open corner with a great location, just an eight-minute walk to the beach and right on the lagoon, so you can take your boat down to Alexander’s for dinner,” O’Grady said. “And

Borrowing a page from the more rustic aesthetic of homes on the mainland, this space takes the timeless textures of brick and tabby and reworks them into something a little more coastal.

This space’s elegant craftsmanship transitions into a powerhouse of function and design.

with the living space so high up, it has almost a treehouse feel to it.”

The architects of Shore Line Design Inc. took full advantage of the home’s lofty heights, framing it by wide sliders across the breadth of the entry to the great room. Bearing hallmarks of Old World elegance, like a deep coffered ceiling and expansive arched built-ins, its formality is tempered by both those views and the modern sophistication of clean white lines.

Opening to the chef’s kitchen across shiplap wainscoting, this space’s elegant craftsmanship transitions into a powerhouse of function and design. Rich veins on a center island’s granite slab match the backsplash beneath custom cabinets, but these visual flourishes just add to a gourmet wonderland, along with a commercial-sized

refrigerator, and the gas range topped with a custom hood.

Just off the kitchen, the cathedral ceiling and panoramic views of the Carolina room cast a more intimate retreat from the home’s more open spaces, creating an inspiring getaway looking out over the water and the outdoor living spaces. Along with those sliders in the great room, doors open wide here, directly onto the expansive screened porch, with heaters that allow for year-round outdoor relaxation.

Borrowing a page from the more rustic aesthetic of homes on the mainland, this space takes the timeless textures of brick and tabby and reworks them into something a little more coastal. The result is an outdoor anchor to a design that bridges resort sophistication and Lowcountry casual elegance.

“It’s not designed as a typical beach house,” O’Grady said.

Each bedroom benefits from the custom craftsmanship of detailed millwork and a premium on size.

With the expansive garden tub and walk-in shower of its opulent en suite, the atmosphere of relaxation stretches to every corner.

Across its five bedrooms and the bunk room, this property gives every member of the family their own private retreat.

“It’s not what everyone else does – it’s more low-key, but with an exceptional amount of quality running throughout. And while it wasn’t conceived to be a rental property, it certainly can accommodate.”

Oddly enough, one of the biggest hallmarks of a home built for the rental market is a massive pool that can accommodate multiple generations and huge parties. And 2 Midstream definitely comes through on that score, with a sparkling oasis crafted by Coastal Pools and Fountains stretching alongside covered outdoor space.

“People really enjoy that rectangle design – it never goes out of style,” said Daniel Geoffroy with Coastal Pools and Fountains. “At 15 by 30 feet, it’s a good-sized pool and it’s not overwhelmingly hard to maintain, and the waterfall and tanning pad add a lot.”

Building so close to a lagoon can occasionally be a headache for pool crews, but Geoffroy said this one was a roughly nine-week breeze. “The process was just great. Palmetto Dunes is our bread and butter so we work in there a lot, and their ARB is so great,” he said. “We’ve previously worked with JJ &R Construction before as well, and they are amazing.”

So yes, 2 Midstream does offer the kind of extravagance and spaciousness of a home built for the rental market. But where the architects and builders truly made their mark here is in the living spaces. Not just designed for visiting, but for living, each bedroom benefits from the custom craftsmanship of detailed millwork and a premium on size.

“They could have put more bedrooms in, but they went for bigger bedrooms and more living space,” O’Grady said. “The numbers don’t lie. These higher-end beach homes are now typically being built for families that want a second home or a primary home for large family events.”

Across its five bedrooms and the bunk room, this property gives every member of the family their own private retreat. Perhaps nowhere did this trade-off of extra beds for extra space carry greater benefit than in the primary suite. Enjoying private access to the rear porch, it gives the owner daily inspiration in a quiet place to sip a favorite beverage. Tall, coffered ceilings carry the theme of elegance from the great room, lending a sense of airiness to the suite’s already grand design. With the expansive garden tub and walk-in shower of its opulent en suite, that atmosphere of relaxation stretches to every corner.

“There’s just so much to recommend with this property – new construction, close to the beach, great bedroom separation, all the bells and whistles and exceptional quality in every aspect,” O’Grady said. “Palmetto Dunes itself is such a highly appealing community, with all the pickleball, golf, and tennis, and all the improvements they’ve made across the resort.”

Article by Cheryl Ricer Elea Chateau Photography

Finding Home with Heart

For Realtor Kalie Clark, real estate isn’t simply about closing transactions – it’s about guiding people through one of life’s biggest investments with care, patience, and a deep knowledge of the community she calls home.

A Hilton Head Island native who works with Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty, Clark brings both local expertise and a personal touch to every client relationship. “I grew up on the island. I went to Hilton Head High School, and my dad has been a general contractor here for years,” she said. “I’ve always been surrounded by real estate, construction, and property management. It just feels like a natural fit for me.”

Originally from the St. Louis area, Clark moved to Hilton Head with her family nearly 18 years ago. After earning a degree in business administration from the College of Charleston, she returned home in March to begin her real estate career. Her roots run deep in the Lowcountry, and her familiarity with neighborhoods, communities, and the island lifestyle gives her clients an advantage.

That local perspective is something buyers and sellers find invaluable. Clark doesn’t just know the housing market, she knows the community. From schools and amenities to hidden gems only longtime locals know, she provides insights that help families envision what life will be like in their new home.

Clark describes herself as a natural caregiver, and it’s a trait she carries into her professional life. “I love talking to people, I love helping people,” she said. “Buying a house is stressful. It’s a lot of money and a really big investment. My goal is always to make the process as easy and seamless for them as possible.”

That commitment shows up in the way she approaches each transaction. Whether representing a buyer or a seller, Clark takes the time to understand her clients’ priorities and then works tirelessly to achieve them. “I’m always trying to find the best option for people, what’s most important to them,” she said. “Then it’s about narrowing down choices and negotiating to get them the best deal possible.”

While Clark offers clients the personal attention of a trusted local advisor, she also has the powerful backing of Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty. With offices on Hilton Head and in Bluffton, the firm combines regional expertise with worldwide reach.

“Sotheby’s is a global brand,” Clark said. “When you list with us, your home is showcased all over the world. We have connections with agents internationally, and that really helps when it comes to selling your home.”

For clients, that global network translates into greater visibility, broader reach, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing their property is marketed at the highest level.

In a crowded real estate market, Clark believes what sets her apart is her willingness to go the extra mile. “I care a lot about people,” she said. “I take on their concerns as if they were my own, and I’ll do whatever it takes to get them the best deal and the property they want.”

That dedication has already made her a trusted name among clients who value not only her knowledge of Hilton Head but also her approachable style and strong work ethic.

Ultimately, Clark views her role as more than facilitating a sale. It’s about building trust and helping people begin a new chapter in their lives. Whether guiding first-time buyers, assisting families relocating to the Lowcountry, or working with sellers ready for their next step, she approaches each relationship with integrity and care.

With her background in business, her lifelong ties to the island, and her natural inclination to help others, Clark embodies what today’s real estate clients are looking for: a professional who is both knowledgeable and compassionate.

For Clark, success isn’t measured by the number of closings, but by the satisfaction of knowing she’s helped someone find their place in the world, right here on Hilton Head Island. 

This stately Old South-style residence commands one of the most enviable addresses in Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, blending architectural elegance with the effortless rhythms of beachfront living.

Article by Cheryl Ricer

Property listed by Jeff Hunt, Dunes Real Estate

Rentals managed by Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. Jamie Delsandro, Director of Property Management

Coastal Grandeur

18 Armada in Palmetto Dunes

On Hilton Head Island’s treasured shoreline, 18 Armada rises with timeless Southern grace. This stately Old South-style residence commands one of the most enviable addresses in Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, blending architectural elegance with the effortless rhythms of beachfront living.

“When you first pull up to it, the grandeur is unbelievable,” said listing agent Jeff Hunt. “It sits perfectly on the street – centered, poised, and opening to breathtaking views of the Atlantic.”

The architecture nods to the Lowcountry’s most beloved traditions. Wide front porches, crisp white columns, and deep rooflines immediately signal welcome. The façade has a quiet confidence – classic, not ostentatious – that feels as though it belongs here on the sand. “It makes you feel comfortable and at ease,” Hunt said. “It’s a very peaceful property.”

Inside, the home continues that balance of scale and intimacy. A sunken living room, both expansive and inviting, creates a natural gathering place. Walls of windows draw the eye to the horizon, where the ever-changing blues of the ocean become the ultimate artwork.

The floor plan, more than 7,000 square feet in total, is meticulously arranged for both togetherness and privacy. Upstairs suites share a cozy lounge area, while downstairs bedrooms connect to a secondary living

The kitchen is a chef’s delight, outfitted with high-end appliances that make every-day cooking or entertaining effortless.

space. “You have multiple conversation areas, yet the bedrooms are private enough where everyone has their own retreat,” Hunt said.

Room by Room: Designed for Living

The kitchen is a chef’s delight, outfitted with high-end appliances that make every-day cooking or entertaining effortless. It opens into a cheerful breakfast nook, ideal for coffee at sunrise. From here, the view carries through the living area and straight out to the sea.

The master suite, positioned along the oceanfront, offers serenity in its purest form. Expansive windows frame the

Atlantic, while a private bath and dressing area provide the quiet luxury of a true retreat.

Upstairs, one of the additional bedrooms boasts its own fireplace, a rare and charming feature in a coastal home, perfect for cozy evenings after a day on the beach.

Altogether, the home offers six bedrooms and seven bathrooms, with three oceanfront primary suites, three additional bedrooms off the ocean, and a total sleeping capacity of 14. Every bedroom includes its own en suite bath – a feature that Jamie Delsandro, director of property management at Palmetto Dunes, emphasizes as key to

the home’s appeal. “Every bedroom has its own bathroom, which is a major factor in the rental performance,” she noted. An additional bathroom opens to the pool area, ensuring convenience when guests are enjoying the outdoors.

Amenities That Elevate

Beyond its generous layout, 18 Armada offers thoughtful features that enhance both comfort and livability. An elevator provides easy accessibility for guests, while multiple indoor living areas allow everyone to spread out. Upstairs is a kitchenette for added convenience and a large balcony overlooking the ocean, complementing the downstairs living space and outdoor deck.

Beyond its generous layout, 18 Armada offers thoughtful features that enhance both comfort and livability.

A spacious bedroom on the second level boasts gorgeous ocean views and a sitting area complete with private fireplace.

“It’s designed so well for groups,” Delsandro said. “You’ve got upstairs and downstairs living spaces, so people can gather or retreat, and there’s even a kitchenette so you don’t have to run downstairs every time you want something to drink.”

Outdoors, a built-in grill area extends the entertaining potential, and the pool terrace and lawn create one of the largest oceanfront yards in Palmetto Dunes. “You could host 50 people back there comfortably, with the pool, the deck, and the ocean as your backdrop,” Hunt said.

While the home itself captivates, its setting amplifies its appeal. Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort is Hilton

offers a unique advantage: its central location, cohesive amenities, and strong rental demand.

Head Island’s crown jewel: 2,000 acres of beachfront paradise, honored as one of the world’s top family resorts. Its accolades include ranking among Travel + Leisure’s best resort communities, with an unmatched combination of natural beauty and amenities.

Residents and guests enjoy three miles of pristine Atlantic shoreline, three championship golf courses designed by legends Robert Trent Jones, George Fazio, and Arthur Hills, and an award-winning tennis and pickleball center with more than 35 courts. The resort’s 11-mile lagoon system, ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, weaves a sense of adventure right into daily life.

Dining is equally close at hand. The beloved Dunes House provides casual beachfront dining; Alexander’s Restaurant and Wine Bar is a longtime favorite for upscale Lowcountry cuisine; HH Prime, located in the Omni Hilton Head, offers steak and seafood in a refined setting. Add to this the general store, bike rentals, and free seasonal shuttle service, and it’s clear that Palmetto Dunes is a self-contained haven.

“You can walk to everything or ride your bike to nearly anything you want,” Hunt said. “It has everything within a very short distance – pickleball, tennis, golf, restaurants. It’s all right here.”

Investment Strength

For all its beauty, 18 Armada is also a powerhouse performer. While Hunt projected the home could generate close to $500,000 in rental revenue, Delsandro confirmed that the actuals are nearly as impressive: $460,000 in gross rental income this year alone.

“It is one of the premier properties we have in our portfolio,” Delsandro said. “In fact, it is our top-grossing property. Between the oceanfront suites, the pool bath, and the spacious design, it checks every box for guests.”

Compared to other luxury enclaves on the island – such as Sea Pines Resort or Port Royal – Palmetto Dunes offers a unique advantage: its central location, cohesive amenities, and strong rental demand. For buyers seeking both lifestyle and return, 18 Armada delivers on every front.

Hunt, who is guiding the sale of this distinctive property, is one of the Lowcountry’s most respected real estate voices. Hunt is a top-producing agent with Dunes Real Estate, based in Palmetto Dunes. With more than 20 years of experience and more than 1,000 homes sold, he consistently ranks among the top agents in South Carolina and is nationally recognized in the top 1,000. His reputation for market knowledge and client service is well established.

“I’ve seen thousands of homes, and this one is truly special,” Hunt said. “The way it blends grandeur, comfort, and potential is rare.”

At its essence, 18 Armada is more than a home. It is a legacy property: a place to gather generations, to enjoy both the serenity of oceanfront living and the vibrancy of resort amenities, and to hold an asset that is as financially sound as it is beautiful.

Elegant yet approachable, expansive yet intimate, 18 Armada captures the very best of Hilton Head Island. From the sweep of its porches to the sparkle of its pool, from sunrise coffees to sunset strolls, it offers not just a house but a lifestyle. For the fortunate buyer, it promises a future defined by both beauty and belonging. 

REALTORS Of the Lowcountry

How many years have you been in the real estate business and what do you enjoy most about it?

I bought my first property for $85,000 in 1986 and was hooked since then. I started buying investment properties and was able to do pretty well with them. About 20 years ago I thought I would like to start helping others, so I became an agent and loved every minute of it!

What is your favorite room in a house?

Living spaces where people gather and share experiences.

What advice do you have for buyers and sellers in our current market?

The Hilton Head market is like a merry-go-round sometimes. It is going fast and hard for buyers to get on; other times, it is slower. I think the key here is to just get on. Whether the market is up or down, over time your value of owning will be exponential financially and emotionally. It is just a great place to build wealth and memories.

When selling our area, what things do you specifically highlight and why?

We call it the FABS – features, advantages, and benefits. Every community has its own personality and amenities. Depending on what someone is looking for, I can find the perfect community based on what they want, need, and appreciate –whether it is the beach, tennis, golf, fishing, boating, or any myriad of things!

How do you spend your time when you aren’t showing houses?

My wife Christine and I enjoying going to different places and talking very active vacations – biking, hiking, sailing, etc. But we always look forward to coming back to Hilton Head.

Has technology changed how you sell real estate? What are the pluses and minuses, in your opinion, with the rise of the internet in real estate transactions?

The technology has improved tremendously in getting things done. However, I would always recommend that people reach out to their Realtor to confirm what they see online, as some information may not be totally accurate and could cause them to make a decision based on information that is inaccurate.

ERIC KUHN

Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate

1038 William Hilton Parkway Hilton Head Island (843) 636-8939 erickuhn.allentate.com

TIERRA SCHAFFER

Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty

How many years have you been in the real estate business and what do you enjoy most about it?

Going on nine years in the business, having moved from Buffalo, New York. A lot of friends and family have come from that area to visit, and having so much pride in the area, I love to showcase it. Friends often joke, “Eric, you’re not working!” but showing them all the great parts of the lifestyle is very exciting to me – and even more exciting when they want a piece for themselves. Assisting anyone transition into new, exciting stages of their lives gives me a lot of fulfillment. Watching someone’s dreams come true of retirement, being closer to family, or investing hard-earned money wisely into real estate is so rewarding and an honor to be part of.

What is your favorite room in a house?

The room with the best view. I’m a sucker for a multi-hued sunset, calm marsh, or the anticipation of the first sun trickling over the golf course. For me, it’s the best spot in a house to relax, entertain, and appreciate our beautiful surroundings. Any room with large windows and doors, consider me there. I think clients sometimes are surprised by the emotion that comes from me when seeing many views in our area, and no matter how many properties you see, there are just so many different perspectives to admire.

When selling our area, what things do you specifically highlight and why?

The natural setting: minimal power lines that are above ground, minimal large signage, and lack of commercialized spaces compared to other coastal towns, no bright lights, minimal building above tree height, abundance of sidewalks and bike paths, and essentially everything that supports our eco-friendly attitude and peaceful setting.

Originally from Pennsylvania, Tierra Schaffer made Hilton Head Island her full-time home in 2013, and quickly fell in love with its easy coastal rhythm, scenic beauty, and strong sense of community.

Now, with nine years in real estate and countless happy clients, Tierra has built her career on being exceptionally responsive, honest, and genuinely passionate about helping others find their place in the Lowcountry. A self-described workaholic who truly loves what she does, she brings energy, integrity, and deep local expertise to every transaction.

When asked about her favorite room in the house, Tierra doesn’t hesitate: The kitchen. “It’s the heart of the home,” she said. “As a foodie, I love an eat-in kitchen where friends and family can gather, share stories, and enjoy a great meal together.”

Tierra specializes in both Hilton Head Island and Bluffton. She’s quick to point out that each has its own distinct personality – from the island’s coastal charm and natural beauty to Bluffton’s small-town warmth and growing vibrancy.

When talking to people considering a move to the area, Tierra loves to highlight three things that make life here so special: the wonderful year-round weather (with just enough seasonal change), the strong sense of community, and the endless outdoor activities, from boating and golf to pickleball, bike trails, and Hilton Head’s many beautiful parks.

23-A Shelter Cove Lane Hilton Head Island (843) 422-3610 tierra@danielravenelsir.com

Supporting local businesses is also important to Tierra. One of her favorite new additions to the Bluffton area is The Lavender Lounge, a luxurious new head spa recently opened by one of her clients. “It’s the perfect spot for a day of pampering and relaxation,” she said. “These kinds of high-end experiences used to be something you’d find only in big cities, but now we’re lucky to have them right here at home.”

BBETH DEANGELIS

Beth DeAngelis Coastal Living Team / Keller Williams Realty

eth DeAngelis leads the Beth DeAngelis Coastal Living Team at Keller Williams Realty, standing at the forefront of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton real estate. With more than three decades of experience and deep local roots, Beth will be the first to tell you that her success isn’t hers alone – it’s built on the strength, integrity, and dedication of the team she’s built around her.

Two of those team members who work tirelessly with her are Angelina Singleton and Joy Gentile, both of whom are buyer agents and listing specialists.

Recognized among the top Realtors locally and nationally and ranked by RealTrends Verified as the No. 3 Small Team in South Carolina by volume in 2025, the Beth DeAngelis Coastal Living Team continues to redefine excellence in luxury real estate. Their expertise spans waterfront homes, coastal investment properties, and Hilton Head Island homes for sale, while delivering a seamless, concierge-level experience from first showing to final signature.

What sets them apart isn’t just their market dominance – it’s their philosophy. Real estate, to them, isn’t about transactions; it’s about understanding each client’s story, lifestyle, and goals. Whether you’re buying a Bluffton retirement home, looking to sell your Sea Pines waterfront property, or exploring investment opportunities in Hilton Head Island gated or beachfront communities, this team ensures every decision is guided by strategy, care, and trust.

One defining example of teamwork came during the launch of a luxury listing in Sea Pines. Just days before hitting the market, Beth’s mother was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer. Seven weeks later, she passed.

Beth stepped away. The team stepped forward.

Every showing, every promotional event and marketing decision was handled flawlessly. The sellers never felt the shift. After closing,

they shared: “I’ve bought and sold several properties both personally and professionally, and I will say that Beth and her team stand at the top of the list of brokers I’ve worked with. They are subject matter experts in every sense of the word. From pricing and marketing, to staging and showing, to closing … Beth and team go above and beyond. I highly, highly recommend Beth and team.”

That’s not just coordination; it’s structure, trust, and unwavering commitment.

Serving as trusted Hilton Head Island real estate advisors, the Beth DeAngelis Coastal Living Team takes pride in helping clients buy and sell with confidence. Their approach is rooted in personal connection, clear communication, and proven expertise.

Their concierge-style experience is anchored by:

• Honest guidance, even when it means having tough conversations.

• Data-driven local market insights that keep clients informed and empowered.

• Strong professional networks, from inspectors and contractors to luxury stagers.

• A seamless property marketing strategy that maximizes every listing’s visibility.

“At the end of the day, it’s about being there every step of the way,” Beth said. “It’s about helping clients achieve their goals – and making sure they feel confident in every decision.”

With the Beth DeAngelis Coastal Living Team, you’re not just hiring a Realtor. You’re aligning with a top-ranked Hilton Head real estate team – a powerhouse of strategy, service, and heart.

Whether you’re ready to list your Hilton Head Island home for sale, invest in Bluffton luxury real estate, or find your perfect coastal retreat, trust the team that stands for professionalism, partnership, and proven results.

LISA SISKO TEAM

Keller Williams Realty

How many years have you been in real estate, and what do you enjoy most about it?

I’ve been licensed for just over 20 years, and what I love most is helping people — whether it’s guiding first-time buyers, assisting families relocating, or helping sellers move on to their next chapter. Real estate can feel complex and overwhelming, but I find joy in making the process clear and stress-free. It’s incredibly rewarding to serve as both a guide and advocate for our clients.

What’s your favorite room in a home?

The one with the most windows — and the best view of

the outdoors! Natural light and a connection to nature always make a space feel alive.

What advice do you have for today’s buyers and sellers?

For buyers: Stay the course. Ask questions until you fully understand the process, your options, and your goals. The Lowcountry market is made up of many “micro-markets,” so having a knowledgeable, local agent is key to success.

For sellers: Price and preparation matter most. Work with an agent who understands how to position your home to stand out — pricing strategically and showcasing it to command the strongest offers possible.

When showcasing the area, what do you highlight most?

We love spotlighting the natural beauty and lifestyle of the Lowcountry — the beaches, golf courses, pickleball courts, biking and walking trails, water sports, festivals, and dolphin tours. Many of our clients have relocated from out of state, so we emphasize how easy it is to connect with a warm, welcoming community of locals who love where they live.

How do you spend your free time when you’re not helping clients?

Taking our dog for walks on the beach, playing tennis, enjoying time with family, and taking in all the natural beauty this area has to offer.

How has technology changed real estate for you?

Technology has transformed how we serve clients — giving buyers deeper insight into properties and communities before ever stepping foot inside. We use data and local market expertise to help buyers make informed, confident decisions.

For sellers, technology allows us to showcase homes beautifully through professional photography, video, and digital marketing — helping buyers quickly imagine what living here might be like. It also allows us to communicate the unique lifestyle that comes with owning in the Lowcountry — something that can’t always be captured by numbers alone.

I’ve been in real estate since 2013, and what I love most is connecting people to their dreams. Helping someone find the perfect home or move on to their next chapter is incredibly special to me.

My favorite room in any home is the kitchen — it’s where people naturally come together to cook, talk, and laugh. It truly is the heart of the home.

For today’s buyers and sellers, my best advice is to work with a Realtor who truly understands the local market. National headlines rarely reflect what’s happening here — even neighborhoods can vary dramatically. Having an experienced local expert on your side makes all the difference.

When selling in the Hilton Head–Bluffton area, I focus on more than the home itself. People move here for the lifestyle — the beauty, relaxed pace, and sense of connection — not just the house.

When I’m not working with clients, you’ll find me enjoying live music, kayaking, spending time with family, or catching one of our breathtaking sunsets. As an active member of the Hilton Head Island Rotary Club, I also love giving back to the community I call home.

Technology has made real estate more efficient, but not everything online is accurate. That’s where having a trusted Realtor helps you separate fact from fiction.

‘Real estate isn’t just about finding houses - it’s about people, community, and creating the lifestyle they envision.”

MICHELLE ELLIOTT

LIAM CRONIN

For nearly a decade, Michelle Elliott has been helping clients find their perfect piece of the Lowcountry. As a leading Realtor with Charter One Realty and the 2025 President of the Hilton Head Area Realtors, she’s built her business around relationships, market expertise, and a genuine love for the coastal lifestyle she sells every day.

“No two days are ever the same,” Michelle said with a smile. “One day I’m walking through a waterfront home, and the next I’m handing over keys to a client finding their forever home. Seeing my clients so happy at closing is the best part of what I do.”

When asked about her favorite room in a home, Michelle doesn’t hesitate. “The kitchen,” she said. “It’s where design and life come together. I love open, inviting kitchens with statement lighting, beautiful stone countertops, and space for everyone to gather, eat, and laugh. It’s the heartbeat of the home.”

Away from showings and closings, Michelle embraces the same laid-back luxury she shares with her clients. You’ll often find her on the water, spending time with family, or cheering on her stepdaughter at softball games and cheer competitions. When time allows, she loves scuba diving and discovering new local restaurants. There’s always something special to uncover in the Lowcountry.

When selling our area, what things do you specifically highlight and why?

I focus on the rhythm of life that defines the Lowcountry, a natural flow between land and sea, work and play, calm and connection. Bluffton and Hilton Head create one cohesive community where charm and sophistication meet authenticity. The waterways, oak canopies, and timeless architecture provide the setting, but the real beauty lies in the pace of life and the people who choose to live here.

This region draws a unique mix of people from all walks of life. It’s a melting pot of stories, experiences, and perspectives—families, retirees, entrepreneurs, and creatives—all drawn to the same sense of belonging. Some come for the beauty or the golf, others for the art, food, or culture, but most stay because of how life feels here. It’s a place that encourages connection, reflection, and a slower, more meaningful rhythm. When I market the Lowcountry, I’m not just selling homes; I’m sharing that feeling.

What advice do you have for buyers and sellers in our current market?

For buyers, clarity and readiness are key. The best opportunities still move quickly, and confidence comes from knowing your priorities, your numbers, and your plan.

For sellers, success depends on presentation and precision. Homes that are well-prepared, beautifully marketed, and priced with intention continue to perform well. The goal is to tell a story that resonates, showcase value clearly, and meet the market with strategy and confidence.

When I sell the Lowcountry, I’m not just selling property – I’m sharing a way of life that’s timeless, connected, and deeply human.

Tucked away in the Fairway Lane Villas, located near the Ocean Gate of Sea Pines, this rare property offers the charm of villa living without sacrificing the spaciousness and serenity of a private home.

Article by Cheryl Ricer

Property listed by Kim McElman, Harbour & Home Real Estate

A Hidden Haven in Sea Pines

79 FAIRWAY LANE

Cozied up just within the gates of Hilton Head Island’s iconic Sea Pines Resort community lies a villa that blends privacy, luxury, and a quintessential Lowcountry lifestyle. Tucked away in the Fairway Lane Villas, located at 13 Lawton Drive, just minutes from the Ocean Gate, this rare property offers the charm of villa living without sacrificing the spaciousness and serenity of a private home.

Now available for purchase through Kim McElman of Harbour & Home Real Estate, Fairway Lane Villa No. 79 presents a unique opportunity to own a coastal retreat that balances elegance, convenience, and natural beauty.

For those who know Hilton Head Island, location is everything. Situated mere minutes from the Ocean Gate, the villa enjoys direct access to South Forest Beach without the congestion of the community’s front entrance. Owners and guests can be on the sand in just a few minutes, walking down a shaded path that leads to one of the island’s quietest stretches of beach.

This area strikes a perfect balance: It is in a secluded area, away from the bustle of the Sea Pines Beach Club, yet close enough for a leisurely walk if one prefers a lively beachfront atmosphere. The nearby shoreline is a favorite among those who treasure privacy – ideal for setting up a cabana, packing a cooler, and enjoying long afternoons without the crowds. The easy return trip to the villa means beach days are stress-free; no need to load cars or search for parking.

Captions listed top to bottom, left to right: The main floor was thoughtfully reimagined to maximize both style and function. The kitchen is both modern and inviting, anchored by quartz countertops that wrap around to form a spacious bar area. A dry bar with beverage refrigerator, wine storage, and glass cabinetry makes entertaining easy. A cleverly concealed laundry area features brand-new front-load appliances tucked beneath an extended quartz countertop, creating a multipurpose zone for folding, coffee prep, or even towel storage.

Beyond the beach, the villa also overlooks a tranquil lagoon and Atlantic Dunes Golf Course. Each evening, sunsets paint the water in shades of gold and pink, offering a view that feels more like waterfront living than fairway living. A private, professionally maintained putting green, exclusive to the Fairway Lane community, sits just across a pair of quaint footbridges, providing a charming and beautiful neighborhood perk.

Fairway Lane is a boutique neighborhood within Sea Pines, composed of just a handful of villas. Its intimate size is part of its appeal. Residents enjoy access to a private tennis court reserved for their use, and the quiet, tree-lined streets invite leisurely walks and bike rides. Without the noise and density of larger complexes, the setting is peaceful and neighborly, an environment that appeals equally to yearround homeowners and those seeking a refined vacation property.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Arriving at 79 Fairway Lane, guests are greeted by a beautifully landscaped drive shaded by mature trees. Parking is ample, with space for up to three vehicles. A brick entryway leads to the front door, and the moment it opens, the villa’s most striking feature comes into view: floor-to-ceiling windows framing the water and golf course views. The open-concept design ensures that natural light and sweeping vistas become part of the home’s daily rhythm.

The main floor was thoughtfully reimagined to maximize both style and function. Upon entering, visitors pass a bedroom with modern en suite bath – an ideal retreat for guests – before stepping into the heart of the villa.

The great room is divided into distinct yet harmonious spaces. A cozy seating area with swivel chairs and a round coffee table offers the perfect spot for cocktails at sunset or family game nights. Just beyond, the living area features more seating positioned directly before grand windows, ensuring unobstructed views of the water and greens.

Adjacent to this space sits a dining area large enough to seat 10 diners, all beneath soaring two-story ceilings that create a sense of volume and light. Sliding glass doors open to the outdoors, blending indoor and outdoor living seamlessly.

The kitchen is both modern and inviting, anchored by quartz countertops that wrap around to form a spacious bar area. A dry bar with beverage refrigerator, wine storage, and glass cabinetry makes entertaining easy. High-end, all new, stainless-steel appliances, including a French-door refrigerator with convertible drawer, gas range with custom hood, and a microwave drawer, add both functionality and sophistication. A marble backsplash provides a timeless finishing touch.

Practicality also has its place here. A cleverly concealed laundry area features brand-new front-load appliances tucked beneath an extended quartz countertop, creating a multipurpose zone for folding, coffee prep, or even towel storage.

From the kitchen, a back door leads to a private courtyard with a grill, gravel patio, and partitioned storage shed – perfect for owners who wish to rent the property and provide separate spaces for guest and personal use.

The main-level primary suite exudes comfort. A king bed dressed in Pottery Barn bedding sets the tone for a restful space. The adjoining bathroom, renovated with modern tile and custom finishes, includes a walk-in shower and updated vanity. Every detail was designed with both style and ease of living in mind.

Each suite features a king bed, ample closet space and a private bath.

A floating staircase leads to the villa’s upper level, where two additional guest suites await. Thanks to the villa’s endunit position, these rooms benefit from extra windows that flood them with natural light. Each suite features a king bed, ample closet space, and a private bath. One bath offers a walk-in shower with custom tile, while the other includes a tub-shower combination, an intentional choice to accommodate families with children.

LIFESTYLE AND ATMOSPHERE

What truly sets 79 Fairway Lane apart is not only its thoughtful design but also the lifestyle it affords. The views, the proximity to the beach, and the private community amenities combine to create a retreat that feels both luxurious and effortless. Owners describe their time here as restorative, with simple pleasures like walking to the beach with grandchildren or sipping wine while watching the

sunset over the lagoon forming the heart of their experience.

For families, the villa is as practical as it is beautiful. The ability to move seamlessly between the beach, the house, and the community’s putting green or tennis courts makes vacationing simple and memorable. For those seeking a smart investment with rental income, second home, or primary residence, the layout and amenities make it an attractive choice for vacationers and residents alike. For those seeking a premium Sea Pines experience, look no farther!

Of course, the value of a Sea Pines address extends well beyond Fairway Lane. This iconic community offers world-class amenities: championship golf courses, tennis,

pickleball, miles of bike trails, the bustling Harbour Town marina, exceptional dining, and unspoiled beaches. From seasonal events to everyday relaxation, Sea Pines provides a lifestyle that blends luxury with the unpretentious charm of Hilton Head Island.

Residents consistently remark on the friendliness of neighbors, the quality of community life, and the endless opportunities for recreation. Whether it’s playing tennis, enjoying fresh seafood at a local restaurant, or strolling the miles of beach, Sea Pines captures the essence of Lowcountry living.

The current owners have invested in upgrades not only to modernize the villa but also to make it feel personal, comfortable, and inviting. Every renovation decision – from the open kitchen layout to the addition of the beverage bar and the redesign of the baths – was made with care. While it is with some reluctance that they say goodbye, the home is ready to embrace a new family eager to create memories within its walls.

With its prime location, thoughtful design, and exclusive community perks, 79 Fairway Lane represents one of the most appealing opportunities on Hilton Head Island today. It is a home that blends the best of villa living with the expansive feel of a private residence, offering not just a place to stay but a way of life.

For those who dream of a Lowcountry retreat where the beach is steps away, the sunsets are unforgettable, and the community is warm and welcoming, this villa is waiting. 

Article by Barry Kaufman

Clover and Palm

TWO CREATIVES PAIR UP WITH NEW LINE OF CURATED JEWELRY

For something as deeply personal as creative expression, it’s amazing to see how it can sometimes flourish when freed from the vacuum of one person’s mind.

John Lennon and Paul McCartney did amazing things as solo artists, whether it’s the cautiously optimistic manifesto of Lennon’s “Imagine” or the unabashed romanticism of McCartney’s “Maybe I’m Amazed.” But few would argue that the work they did together as a songwriting team casts a shadow over everything they did apart.

The creative world is littered with collaborations like this, proving equal to or sometimes greater than the sum of their parts. Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat sharing a canvas with each putting their own perspective into their shared works. Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak pairing technical and marketing genius to create an entirely new business model. David Spade’s scathing sarcasm tempering Chris Farley’s hyperactive bombast.

In creating Clover and Palm, lauded designer Kelly Caron and jeweler Lissy Rawl of Little Fish Boateak have taken this saying to its ultimate expression. Each approaches this new venture with a clear area of expertise, a unique sense of style, and a deep well of respect for what the other brings to the table.

The point being, there is wisdom in the old saying, “Two heads are better than one.” When those two heads are able to come at a project from entirely different worlds, the unique give and take of their skills and perspectives can accomplish something neither would have been able to do alone.

In creating Clover and Palm, lauded designer Kelly Caron and jeweler Lissy Rawl of Little Fish Boateak have taken this saying to its ultimate expression. Each approaches this new venture with a clear area of expertise, a unique sense of style, and a deep well of respect for what the other brings to the table.

“I told Kelly, you’re the glam and I’m the more casual everyday,” Rawl said. “We’ve come up with some pieces that I know are going to do really well, just because there are certain aspects I wouldn’t have thought about without her coming into the mix.”

While Rawl has been enjoying a strong and growing reputation for the handcrafted jewelry she has created with Little Fish Boateak, a line she launched following a career in design, Clover and Palm is an entirely different animal. Her own handcrafted pieces are each intricately crafted individual pieces, coaxed from gold, silver, pearls, and found

Clover & Palm's Lissy Rawl and Kelly Caron

With Clover and Palm, the upscale sophistication that Caron made famous lends opulence to Rawl's designs, launching them into a different stratosphere.

fabrics into unique expressions of laid-back coastal beauty. With Clover and Palm, the upscale sophistication that Caron made famous lends opulence to Rawl's designs, launching them into a different stratosphere.

It’s a market that Caron knows quite well. As principal of Kelly Caron Designs, she and her team have created an entire visual language that has come to define Lowcountry luxury. In homes and commercial projects, her keen eye for materiality and textures are often replicated, but never duplicated.

That “Kelly Caron look,” as so many have taken to calling it, is the template of the revived sense of beauty sweeping the Lowcountry. Presented in clean lines, spaces that breathe in the palette of the South, textures that evoke homespun hospitality, and upscale appointments that cut a subdued yet impressive sense of opulence, it’s an entire vibe that has spun out of homes and into fashion and decor.

With Clover and Palm, Caron extends that aesthetic into jewelry on the strength of Rawl's metallurgic brilliance.

“It was an ‘ah ha’ moment, reaching out to Lissy. I had been thinking about design and how much I love what I do, and how much she loves what she does,” Caron said. “I was trying to find a creative outlet and realized we should

With Clover and Palm, the famed sophistication that has made Kelly Caron Designs the standard bearer for luxury finds its ideal partner in the approachable everyday beauty of Little Fish Boateak. And like the creative partnership behind it, it’s shaping up to be something far more than the sum of its parts.

be doing this together, because I don’t know the jewelry side of things like she does.”

Caron was already well versed in what Rawl was doing at Little Fish Boateak. Their paths had crossed numerous times when Rawl was working in the design world, and when she turned her attention toward jewelry, Caron was one of her early champions.

“I started this so I could have a little more flexible schedule and spend time with my children, and Kelly was the first to start carrying my pieces at pop-up events,” Rawl said. “Plus, she let me go through her library.”

That library is a vast vault of fabric samples that Rawl deftly incorporates into her art, creating earrings with intricate plaids, raffia, fur, and suede designs. With the support of Caron and a host of others who became champions for this experiment Rawl was operating out of a north end studio, Little Fish Boateak caught the eye of outlets like Southern Living.

Caron’s “ah ha” moment had a touch of destiny behind it, coming just as Rawl was looking toward the horizon of what would come next.

“I wanted to get into something that was more scalable and she hit me at the perfect time, because I was getting ready to figure that out,” Rawl said. “Either through Little Fish or something beyond jewelry, I had literally spent that entire day manifesting.”

Their partnership quickly lived up to the cosmic alignment that brought it into being, yielding a line that brings both of their talents to bear.

“With Clover and Palm, you can have your everyday going-out pieces and you can have that simple piece for date night or an evening out,” said Caron. “There’s a whole array to the collection and I feel like you can truly find something for every occasion and every person.”

With Clover and Palm, the famed sophistication that has made Kelly Caron Designs the standard bearer for luxury finds its ideal partner in the approachable everyday beauty of Little Fish Boateak. And like the creative partnership behind it, it’s shaping up to be something far more than the sum of its parts.

“We’re both creatives, but we’re day and night when it comes to our personal styles, so the collision of that has been really unique,” Caron said. “Lissy made a good point that Hilton Head doesn’t have an anchor – that one line with something for anyone who visits here that’s very resort-oriented and coastal, but also refined.”

“I admire Kelly's business sense so much,” Rawl said. “The business side for me is more challenging. I love that creativity –getting in there and getting my hands dirty. Instantly, it was a no-brainer to join on and design something with her, since she’s somebody that’s already succeeded so well.” 

Styled by Kandace Cunningham

Photography by Maggie Washo

by Allie Santorum and Zake Masterson

We love autumn in the South because we can finally wear clothing . A real ensemblenot a tiny piece of fabric with two straps attached that tries not to add any perspiration on your already balmy body. Think jackets, boots, and pantsuits delightfully layered with scarves and hats and other rich embellishments. With Old Town Bluffton as the backdrop, Allie and Zake model some of the latest fall looks from our local boutiques.

SartorialSeasoN

Find Allie Santorum's

Find Zake Masterson's outfit at Outside Hilton Head and Allie Santorum's outfit at Currents

Special thanks to our adorable models: David Kroha, Lenox Ware, Remi Ware, Peyton Szady, Austin Long, Hattie Taylor, Laurel Welch, Elin Welch, Hoyt Wilson, Bridget Kostrzewski, Winnie Kostrzewski, Hadley Kostrzewski and Palmer Pritchard

Nestled in the heart of Bluffton at Washington Square, an up-and-coming shopping center on Buckwalter Road, Lennie + Remi curates clothing for every adventure, blending effortless California surf style with timeless pieces from France.

Article by Cheryl Ricer . Photography by M.Kat

Clothing for EvEry AdvEnturE

Lennie +

Remi

Children’s Collective

When Jessica Ware opened the doors to Lennie + Remi Children’s Collective, she wasn’t just launching another Lowcountry boutique. She was creating a destination for families who wanted their children’s wardrobes to reflect both comfort and style.

Nestled in the heart of Bluffton at Washington Square, an up-and-coming shopping center on Buckwalter Parkway, Lennie + Remi curates clothing for every adventure, blending effortless California surf style with timeless pieces from France. Each collection reflects Ware’s vision for classic, high-quality children’s wear that feels fresh yet enduring.

“I’ve always wanted a boutique since I was a little girl,” Ware said. “I went to school for fashion merchandising and retail management, and after graduation, I interned in New York for a fashion industry magazine. Later, I worked for companies like Nordstrom and Abercrombie as a visual merchandising manager.”

Those years in the fashion world gave her a solid foundation, but her dream simmered until she found the right moment – and the right inspiration.

When she became a mom, Ware saw a chance to expand what was available for local families. “There are some

wonderful children’s shops here,” she said. “If you’re looking for that classic, smocked, Southern style, you’ll absolutely find it in town. Lennie + Remi just brings a different vibe – a mix of relaxed beach vibes and timeless European pieces that feel a little more modern and effortless.”

Ware’s transition into boutique ownership was shaped by a mentorship that came at just the right time. After moving to the Lowcountry, she worked for Michelle Taylor at Birdie James, a well-known women’s boutique on Hilton Head Island. “Michelle pretty much taught me the ins and

Lennie + Remi is a mix of relaxed beach vibes and timeless European pieces that feel a little more modern and effortless

Austin Long models a cute look from Lennie + Remi.

outs of owning a boutique,” Ware said. “Inventory, buying, all the behindthe-scenes. … That experience was invaluable.”

When Taylor opened her second Birdie James location in Washington Square, Ware admired how she had brought her vision to life. Now, as neighbors in the shopping center, the two have come full circle – once mentor and mentee, now neighbors and fellow boutique owners shaping the local retail scene together.

Ware admits that her initial love was men’s fashion, having spent her internship immersed in menswear design. But Bluffton wasn’t the right market for it. “Men’s and women’s clothing is already well covered here,” Ware said. “But with kids’ clothes, there was an opportunity. Parents here wanted options, and I knew I could bring in brands that would stand out.”

Her selections are influenced not just by her fashion background but also her upbringing. “I grew up in France,” she said. “When I found French brands at the Los Angeles market, they really captured my childhood and my sense of style.” Pairing those styles with California-based surf brands that reflect the laid-back Lowcountry vibe, the boutique’s collection feels both worldly and rooted in coastal culture.

The result is a style Ware describes as “Lowcountry, Europeaninfluenced, beachy, but more classic – not super trendy.” Moms often tell her they wish the clothes came in adult sizes. “I hear that all the time,” she said.

The Story Behind the Name

The boutique’s name is a family affair. Lennie and Remi aren’t abstract branding choices. They are Ware’s children. “Lennie is short for Lenox, my almost 4-year-old son, and Remi is my 15-month-old daughter,” she said.

The kids also appear in marketing photos on the store’s website, alongside friends’ children modeling seasonal looks.

“The little boy and girl at the bottom of the homepage – those are mine,” she said proudly. The boutique is not only named for her kids but also built with them in mind, a reflection of how her personal journey as a mom shaped her professional dream.

Lennie + Remi opened in late November last year, just in time for the holiday season. But Ware chose to delay the official anniversary celebration until January. “The holidays are so busy,” she said. “In January, there’s nothing going on, so I’m planning our one-year celebration then.”

That milestone represents more than just a year in business. It’s the fulfillment of Ware’s childhood dream of owning a boutique.

More Than Clothes: Building Connections

One of the unexpected joys of boutique ownership has been the community that forms inside the shop. “It’s really great when little kids come in and tell you how much they love your store,” Ware said. “One little girl – she was maybe 4 – told her mom that my store was her favorite and that it was way better than Target. That was so cute. For kids, Target is usually the best thing ever!”

Meeting all the parents and grandparents who come into her store is a highlight for Ware. “I love hearing about their kids and grandkids – just socializing with them in the store makes it special,” she said. “Forming connections is what it’s really all about.”

Ware’s mission is simple: To help children feel confident and inspired through clothing that reflects their personalities and encourages adventure. From newborn to size 12, Lennie + Remi offers thoughtfully selected pieces that grow with a child’s size – and their adventurous spirit. The tagline “Clothing for Every Adventure: Where style meets imagination – clothing made to inspire each child’s amazing journey” captures that mission perfectly.

“Ultimately, I want children to feel comfortable in what they’re wearing,” Ware said. “I want them to find something they love, something they feel themselves in.”

That philosophy is woven into every rack and display inside Lennie + Remi. Whether it’s a classic French-inspired look, a breezy surf-influenced outfit, or a timeless piece that could be passed down, the boutique is about more than fashion. It’s about the stories kids will write while wearing those clothes.

With the first anniversary approaching, Ware is excited for what’s next. She envisions expanding her offerings while staying true to the boutique’s identity: classic, adventurous, and curated. For now, though, she’s grateful for the journey so far.

“Opening Lennie + Remi has been everything I dreamed it would be,” she said. “It combines my love for fashion, my background in merchandising, and my life as a mom. It feels like the perfect fit.”

In a retail landscape where bigbox stores dominate, Lennie + Remi Children’s Collective offers something refreshingly different. It’s a place where imagination meets quality, where parents can find unique pieces that tell a story, and where children can feel seen, stylish, and comfortable.

“Clothing for every adventure means whatever journey your child is on,” Ware said. “Whether it’s building sandcastles at the beach, celebrating a birthday, or just playing outside, they’ll feel great in what they’re wearing. And that makes all the difference.”

As Lennie + Remi celebrates its first year, it’s clear the boutique is more than a shop. It’s a reflection of Jessica’s journey, her children’s namesake, and a growing community’s newest treasure.

Find Lennie + Remi at 25 Minetta Lane, Suite 101 in Washington Square on Buckwalter Parkway. Hours are Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To learn more, call (843) 705-0956, visit ShopLennieXRemi.com or find them on social media @shoplenniexremi. 

Styled by Kandace Cunningham

Photography by Maggie Washo

Special thanks to our models, Freya and Styles Harden

SIBLING SPARKLE

The new playground at Riverside Barn Park in Bluffton was the backdrop for this month’s fashion, featuring fall looks from Lennie + Remi and Island Child.

Find Styles and Freya's ensembles at

Find Styles and Freya's ensembles

A bride and her maid of honor in Brims on the Bluff originals. Not your average cowgirl hat, these have been hand-steamed, simple, and full of spirit to accent a perfect wedding day.

The Brims on the Bluff signature color is teal. This Osprey is adorned with semiprecious stones, a feather, and a lucky card — one-of-a-kind from Brims on the Bluff is a showstopping piece that tells its owner's story.

Article by Cheryl Ricer

Photography by Taylor Kaufmann

BRIMS ON THE BLUFF

CRAFTING STORIES, ONE HAT AT A TIME

On the quiet streets of Bluffton sits a unique boutique called Brims on the Bluff. This fascinating store was founded by Lauren Dembeck and is not your typical hat shop. Here, hats are not just accessories – they are wearable works of art, hand-shaped and custom-designed to reflect the personality of each wearer.

“We really take the focus on the craftsmen and the art of hats,” Dembeck said. “All of our employees are trained stylists and designers who can create stunning hats. We make our own handmade beaded hat bands, strands of hand-picked oyster shells, and embroidery stitched right on your hat. No two hats are ever alike; each one is crafted to tell your own story and personality.”

Since opening in July, Brims on the Bluff has become a wonderful destination for locals and visitors alike, attracting families and equestrian enthusiasts, as well as bridal parties and weddings. The shop’s welcoming atmosphere is more than retail – it’s an experience.

Inside the boutique you will see rows of hats, each waiting to be transformed into an individual creation. Customers can select from multiple colors, inspired by the Lowcountry’s natural palette – sunset oranges, marshland greens, ocean blues, and neutrals, among others. Hat styles are named after various birds found on the coast of South Carolina, such as the Eagle, Osprey, Hawk, Swift, and Heron.

“All of our hats start as a blank canvas,” Dembeck said. “We steam them, shape them, and customize each hat as an extension of the creator. Not every head is the same, so no hat should be either.”

Materials are chosen with as much care as the design. Straw hats are tightly woven from fine pressed palm, offering both style and function with built-in SPF protection. The boutique’s specialty, however, lies in wool and fur blends, particularly rabbit and beaver fur. “Beaver fur is definitely our most popular,” Dembeck said. “It’s luxury, soft and buttery, yet incredibly durable. We source it from the West Coast, using only the fur from the underbelly, which is the highest quality. It can take months to receive certain colors, but that’s what makes these hats so unique and exceptional.”

While Brims on the Bluff offers hats in a range of shapes and brim sizes, Dembeck emphasizes that style depends on the individual. Many customers gravitate toward what she calls a “Western hybrid,” featuring teardrop or diamond crowns with slightly flared brims. Every brim begins at five inches wide but can be trimmed down and reshaped to suit the wearer’s look and proportions. Custom hats are made for men, women, and children, each one unique to its owner.

Part of the boutique’s magic is the guidance provided by its stylists, all trained in color analysis. By examining a client’s hair, eye, and skin tones, they suggest colors and accents that enhance rather than overwhelm. “We like to tell people that their hat shouldn’t match what they wear – it should be the pop,” Dembeck said. “If you wear a lot of black, don’t get a black hat. Get something that stands out, and then we’ll incorporate black into the details.”

Beyond the boutique’s walk-in shopping experience, Brims on the Bluff has gained an outstanding reputation for its creative events. Dembeck and her team regularly partner with resorts, realtors, and wedding planners to host hat-making sessions. “We’ve done weddings and corporate events for up to 150 people,” she said. “It’s so fun to see everyone create something that’s truly theirs.”

The boutique also travels, thanks to True Blue, a converted miniature horse trailer turned mobile hat shop. True Blue makes appearances at equestrian shows, private parties, and popular community gatherings at Palmetto Bluff. “It’s always a hit,” Dembeck said.

More Than Fashion

What sets Brims on the Bluff apart is the meaning woven into every detail. Customers often find themselves drawn to specific colors, stones, or embellishments – choices that carry deeper significance. “We source semi-precious stones like amethyst, jasper, and onyx from North and South Carolina,” Dembeck said. “Each has unique energies and healing components. People are often drawn to what they need in their life, and their hat becomes a reflection of that.”

Even the hat bands are pieces of art, handcrafted inhouse by all the Brims on the Bluff designers. One signature style uses oyster shells hand-collected from nearby beaches. “It usually takes about a week to make a band,” Dembeck said. “Each shell is unique, and I’ve never seen anything like them elsewhere.”

Her team also personalizes hats with embroidery and painted designs. One staff member, Mary, is known for handstitching equestrian portraits directly onto hats. “We’ve had clients bring in photos of their personal horses,” Dembeck said. “Mary will stitch or paint a silhouette onto the hat. It becomes something so personal and meaningful.”

Dembeck’s path to hat-making wasn’t straightforward. With a background in hospitality and hotel management, she once worked in corporate events across California and

Colorado. It wasn’t until she moved to South Carolina 15 years ago that her creative vision took root.

For Dembeck, hats are more than accessories – they’re confidence boosters. “I feel incomplete without a hat now,” she said. “I wear one everywhere: the bank, the grocery store, picking up my daughter from school. You put on a hat and a pair of earrings, and people notice. Even on a messy-hair day, you stand taller, feel better, and get compliments.”

At its heart, Brims on the Bluff is about connection. Dembeck believes the right hat finds its owner, not the other way around. “Sometimes you can just see the spark in someone’s eyes when they put on the perfect hat,” she said. “It’s about joy, confidence, and self-expression.”

This philosophy extends to the boutique’s role in the community. From local collaborations to hosting creative gatherings, Brims on the Bluff has become a place where people not only shop but also share stories and experiences. “This is fun for us,” Dembeck said. “It’s like playing dress-up every day.”

As Brims on the Bluff grows, Dembeck envisions even more opportunities for customization and artistry. Even high-end interior designers are commissioning hats for wall displays, treating them as much fashion as sculptural décor. The boutique is expanding its custom order offerings, ensuring that each piece remains one-of-a-kind. Who knows? Maybe even a second location is on the horizon.

“We’re craftsmen in our own art,” Dembeck said. “Every hat tells a story, and we just want to help people tell their own.”

Brims on the Bluff is located at 10C Johnston Way, Unit C, in Bluffton Village. Call (843) 949-8126 or visit BrimsOnTheBluff.com. 

Article by Cheryl Ricer

A Love Rooted in Faith, Family, and Hilton Head Island

The Wedding Story of Forest Richardson and Andrew Kocis

For most couples, a wedding is the culmination of a love story – an exclamation point at the end of months or years of dating. For Forest Richardson and Andrew Kocis, however, their Hilton Head Island wedding was far more joyful than any single piece of punctuation could ever convey. It was the joining together of two families’ traditions, two deep-rooted Southern stories, and two lives knit together by family threads of faith and intentionality.

It was the destination of a journey two souls took to find one another. It was a celebration of the purest love.

It was also, as Forest describes it, “a true honor to celebrate in a place that means so much to us – Hilton Head Island will always hold our hearts.”

Growing Up Southern

Forest’s story begins right here on Hilton Head Island. Born at Hilton Head Hospital, she spent her childhood steeped in the culture of the island as part of a family that helped define it. The daughter of Coligny Plaza owners, Leslie and JR Richardson, Forest carries on a legacy that began when her grandparents made their way here in 1955, before the bridge was built. As founders of Coligny, they helped establish the community as more than a beach getaway. That sense of place still resonates with Forest.

“I grew up cherishing sunrises on the beach and sunsets on Calibogue Sound. The island is home to me,” Forest said. “I attended Hilton Head Prep, then Wake Forest University, and after completing my Masters in Business Analytics, I joined Deloitte Consulting in

For their first dance, Forest and Andrew danced to the timeless tune, “This Will Be” by Natalie Cole.

cherished moment: JR

In front of a handcrafted oyster cross, Forest and Andrew sealed their vows with their first kiss. Reverend Gregory Kronz, who baptized Forest as a baby, officiated the ceremony.

The Richardson Family. (left to right): Amanda Richardson, James Richardson IV, James Richardson III, JR Richardson, Forest Richardson

Kocis, Andrew

Kocis, Leslie Richardson, Collins Richardson, and Morgan Richardson.

Washington D.C. I came to Hilton Head Island the weekend before the pandemic to spend time with my parents. That Sunday, my boss called and advised me to cancel my flight and remain on the island, since no one would be returning to the office that week. I spent that unexpected stretch with my parents, settling into a slower routine and falling in love with the island all over again as an adult.”

Following the ebb of the pandemic, Forest moved back to Washington D.C.

Hoping to make her way closer to her family and friends, Forest decided to move to Charlotte. Little did she know that a fellow resident of her new city would change the trajectory of her life.

Born in Charlotte and raised in Greenville, South Carolina, Andrew Kocis carries the Palmetto State in his bones. “I went to Presbyterian College, then moved to Chicago for five years to work in finance,” he said. “But after five winters, I was ready to come back South. The Southeast is home.”

Having grandparents who bought a home in Sea Pines 50 years ago and lived on the island for years, Andrew’s childhood memories are peppered with the Lowcountry from regular family get-togethers. His aunt and uncle still call the island home. “To marry an island girl was a dream,” he said with a laugh. “Hilton Head Island has always been special to me, too.”

A Match Made by Providence – and a Little Help From Friends

Their meeting wasn’t the result of swipes on an app or chance encounters. It came through an unexpected matchmaker: Joe Owen, one of Andrew’s father’s best friends, and past Hilton Head resident who served as the Island Recrecation Center’s first director.

“I was fly fishing with my dad in the North Carolina mountains,” Andrew said. “Joe called and asked about my dating life, and I told him I wasn’t seeing anyone. He said, ‘Give me 24 hours.’ The next day he sent me a picture of Forest and said, ‘This is the perfect girl for you.’”

Andrew agreed to have Joe reach out and make the connection. It came, as many island connections do,

through a maze of friends and family. Forest had a friend from college, Mary Winston Dalrymple, whose mother is Joe’s cousin, and this grapevine was able to put Andrew’s LinkedIn photo in front of Forest.

The stage was set for a blind date.

“Mary Winston, as sweet as she is, had set me up on a few blind dates that didn't work out,” Forest said. “But I said ‘yes’ to this one. And thank goodness I did.”

Their first encounter came at Inizio, a pizza restaurant in Charlotte. After splitting a pistachio pesto pizza, they talked for hours beneath an oak tree outside the restaurant. The conversation flowed as it can only between two souls that have found each other. It wasn’t long after the date ended that Forest sent a text to her eventual maid of honor: “Husband. I’m going to marry him.”

Shared Values, Shared Lives

What sealed their connection wasn’t just chemistry, but shared convictions.

“On our first date, we covered everything from our love for our families to our shared Christian values,” Forest said. “It was clear that our roots were similar and our faith was woven throughout our upbringings. I admired the way Andrew cared for his nieces and nephews. Family dinners, time together, the way we cherish time with our loved ones –it all aligned.”

Andrew agreed. “Faith and family were the big two,” he said. “And then there’s Forest herself – her bubbly personality, how deeply she cares, and how she invests in her relationships. She shows up for people. She makes everyone feel special.”

Both living in Charlotte, the couple settled into a rhythm of shared routines. Walks through the park, picnics, long evenings cooking together.

“We love to cook,” Forest said. “We write notes in our cookbooks when we make something – what we cooked, the date, what was going on in our lives. It’s like a cooking diary.”

They also jumped headfirst into each other’s family lives. Holidays, kids’ ball games, weddings of friends – every experience felt richer and more meaningful with a partner

by their side. “It was so fun to be at a friend’s wedding and finally say, ‘This is my person,’” Andrew said.

The Proposal

By spring of 2024, Andrew knew it was time. He asked Forest’s father, JR, for his blessing during the RBC Heritage golf tournament weekend on Hilton Head Island.

After juggling the calendars of the couple’s busy summer schedules and both sets of parents, a sunny Wednesday in June was chosen for the day Andrew would pop the question. To cover his approach – and keep Forest unaware of what he had planned – Andrew arranged a short mid-summer jaunt to Linville, North Carolina, where Forest spent summers during her childhood. His plan was to take their dog to Camp Yonahnoka, a gorgeous park in Linville, where Andrew would conveniently “forget” the leash.

“On our way to our favorite spot for dinner, we made a quick stop at the park to ‘pick up the leash,’” Andrew said. “I dropped down on one knee.” Forest chimed in, “It was truly the best Wednesday ever!”

Against a backdrop of Blue Ridge skies and the blossoming of an eternal love, Andrew asked Forest to join their lives together. You already know what she said.

All of Andrew’s meticulous planning paid off when Forest found both sets of their parents waiting nearby, ready to celebrate the news.

A Wedding Steeped in Island Tides

When it came to planning the wedding, Forest knew one thing: It had to happen at the place she’d always called home – Hilton Head Island.

Forest and Andrew dance their way out of the reception, wrapped in a whirlwind of festive fun.

“I always dreamed of getting married in my parents’ backyard where I had lived since I was 9,” she said. “So that’s where we had the ceremony. Our reception was at Honey Horn, a place deeply tied to my family history, as we are related to the Loomis family who originally owned the land. For us, it felt symbolic to be married in a place rooted with history.”

Forest worked with wedding planner Kelli Corn to design what she calls a “bright, colorful garden party.” She drew inspiration from a beloved painting by North Carolina artist Herb Jackson, infusing cheerful colors into everything from the save-the-dates to the groomsmen’s pocket squares and dance floor.

With Jackson’s blessing, she was able to incorporate his artwork throughout the celebration.

Perhaps the most unique touch was the oyster cross. Forest’s parents invited friends and family to glue oyster shells onto a wooden cross in the weeks before the wedding – each shell prayed over with blessings for the couple. “That cross still stands in my parents’ backyard,” Forest said. “It’s one of the most meaningful things because of the love all of our friends and family put into it.”

The result was a joyful, vibrant celebration rooted in faith, family, and place.

The Rain and the Sunshine

Like many Lowcountry weddings, weather played its part. But as any wedding planner will tell you, there are few greater miracles a wedding day can enjoy than kisses from angels falling from the heavens as drops of blessed rain.

“Right as I was about to walk down the aisle, one small cloud opened up,” Forest said. “It rained for just a few minutes. I looked at Andrew, smiling at the end of the aisle, and realized – none of it matters. We’re here to get married. That’s my favorite memory.”

Andrew agreed, adding a poetic touch: “I wasn’t worried about the weather. As I told someone that week, I’m marrying sunshine personified. And that’s Forest.”

Favorite Memories

Though the day was full of highlights, one quiet moment stands out for Andrew.

“We planned a last dance,” he said. “After everyone left the tent, before the big exit, the band played one last song. Just the two of us, alone on the dance floor. After all the craziness and joy during our wedding weekend, it felt like our first moment to truly settle into being husband and wife.”

It was a perfect moment of quiet reflection following the pomp and energy of the wedding, giving the happy couple time to reflect, treasure the love they had found, and begin in earnest their new life together. Afterward, the couple was able to give a small token of appreciation to the people who made it all possible, including gifting Mary Winston and Joe with matching champagne buckets, bestowing on them the “Matchmaker Award.”

“You always hope for the best when you set your friend up on a date, so it’s been a true joy to be a part of their love story,” Mary Winston said. “You could see right away that Andrew and Forest were two people who had fallen immediately, and deeply, in love.”

Looking Ahead

Now back in Charlotte with their chocolate lab, Chip, the Kocises are enjoying married life.

“We are excited to have a family someday and raise our children knowing how meaningful Hilton Head Island is to us,” Forest said.

“Whether we’re in Charlotte or Hilton Head, we want to raise our children with the same traditions and values we grew up with – faith, family dinners, and approaching relationships with intentionality,” Andrew said.

And Hilton Head Island? “It will always be home,” Forest said. “We wouldn’t be surprised if life brings us back to the island someday.”

Asked to sum up their love for one another, both pause, then speak with clarity.

“For Andrew, it’s his intentionality,” Forest said. “Andrew is so thoughtful and purposeful in how he cares for others. He slows me down and provides a steady calm throughout the chaos of life. I am excited to see all that we build together over the years.”

For Andrew, it’s Forest’s joy. “Forest truly believes every day is a special occasion, and she lives that out. She makes everyone feel celebrated. To marry someone like that? I’m beyond blessed.”

Epilogue: A Faithful Union

Their story reads like something out of a novel. Two people, brought together by fate and bound instantly by love, their union blessed with rain and filled with family and faith, but nothing could be more real than the devotion that these two have found in one another.

On Hilton Head Island, where romance is painted in gentle sea breezes and sunsets that blur the sky into soul-stirring artistry, Forest and Andrew began their forever. As they step into their future – wherever it may lead – they carry the island with them. 

Santa and friends at The Earl of Sandwich, the first stop on the Black Friday Santa Bar Crawl.

Join Santa and Jevon at Coligny Center Stage on Black Friday for a rockin' good time.

Article by Barry Kaufman

Coligny’s Toast to the Holidays

There are some holiday traditions that just belong to one place.

The Germans celebrate the season by hiding a pickle somewhere on the Christmas tree. Venezuelans kick off the holidays by roller skating to church. The Japanese feast on KFC.

Here on Hilton Head Island, there’s one tradition all our own, and you can experience it only during Black Friday at Coligny. The main event, of course, serves as a celebration of what Coligny has always represented – Hilton Head’s downtown. Let other communities trample each other for a 10% discount on a flat-screen TV. On Hilton Head Island, we prefer to spend the day supporting local businesses, like the shops and restaurants that fill this day with deals, no pushing or shoving required.

“Black Friday has become a day that we really honor Coligny’s commitment to the community by giving our shops and restaurants a day-long opportunity to get a jump on the holidays,” said JR Richardson, owner of Coligny. “At the same time, we give the community something that can bring them together to kick off the season.”

This year, Black Friday offers something brand new for shoppers – a chance to sip some inspired cocktails while they browse. The Santa Bar Crawl starts at The Earl of Sandwich and continues around the plaza.

Also starting on Friday, and continuing through the season, Carolina Coffee & Crumbs will be transformed into a holiday speakeasy, with cocktails including the bourbonforward Santa’s Nightcap, the refreshing Midori and vodka Grinch, and many more.

“We’re excited to put a pop-up Christmas bar in Coligny,” said Erika Waronsky, owner of Carolina Coffee & Crumbs.

“The festive atmosphere of Coligny is the perfect place for this to occur.”

Those festive drinks will keep you in the spirit beyond the confines of the more than 60 shops and restaurants, with the kid-forward fun of the Jevon Daly Kids Show running from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“The coolest part is what I do at Black Friday and every Saturday in December, plus the 21st, 22nd and 23rd. It’s kind of like coming to Santa’s workshop – except the elves get to come up on the microphone and sing a Christmas song,” said Daly, who added that people who mention this article to him during a show might just win a prize. “So, come on down if you know all the words to ‘Frosty the Snowman.’”

But even Daly knows that, at least when it comes to Black Friday at Coligny, he’s not the only star of the show. As he sings in Christmas in Coligny, this is where you’ll get to see Santa fly in on a chopper. Soaring across the Coligny skies at 12:45 p.m., Old Saint Nick will arrive in true Coligny fashion, before taking center stage for photos from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

As in years’ past, the celebration doesn’t stop at Black Friday. Coligny will give shoppers a chance to win $1,000 simply by making the local choice – shopping and dining at their stores and restaurants. Simply enter your receipts all December long at ColignyPlaza.com/Christmas and you will be entered for a chance to win a cool $1,000 on Christmas Day.

More than just a chance to shop, enjoying Black Friday at Coligny is a way to reconnect with community, celebrate the spirit of the season, and maybe get a $1,000 Christmas present you’ll never forget. Visit ColignyPlaza.com/events for all holiday events. 

ARTICLE BY HEATHER QUINN

DIARY OF A DANCE MOM

THE NUTCRACKER KICKS OFF 40TH SEASON OF HILTON HEAD DANCE THEATRE

It all begins in August. While many people are clinging to the final drops of summer, there exists a unique group who dive headfirst into the holiday season. As soon as August rolls around, dance moms across the nation find themselves daydreaming of sugar plum fairies and jamming out to Tchaikovsky, while wiping sweat from their foreheads – because The Nutcracker season flurries in despite the lasting heat of summer.

When Lori Finger, president of Hilton Head Dance Theatre’s board of directors, asked me to write an article celebrating the 40th season of The Nutcracker from a dance mom perspective, I felt both honored and confused. Do I really belong to the dance mom club? As I wrestled with denial, vivid memories surfaced – like the moment I enrolled my eldest daughter in ballet class almost as soon as the umbilical cord was cut, confirming that perhaps the “dance

mom” title is indeed fitting. But I fell into this role honestly and, more importantly, I’m in good company.

Hilton Head Dance Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker has become a beloved tradition on Hilton Head Island, ranking among the most significant community events of the year. The nonprofit dance organization was established in 1986 by John Carlyle and Karena Brock-Carlyle, both highly regarded dancers. Karena is a former principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre. John is a former professional dancer with City Center Dance Theatre, The Tampa Ballet, and The Savannah Ballet. The couple continue as artistic directors of HHDT.

“It’s important to recognize that all of this originates from John and Karena,” Finger said. “We are incredibly fortunate to have their vision!”

Lori’s daughter, Katie Finger Girardi, the ballet mistress

of Hilton Head Dance School, began her journey there as a student in 1987. Now, she teaches where her learning began. Her daughter Karena, named for the beloved artistic director, is a dancer in the company.

Lori’s and Katie’s experiences proves that I’m not alone in this dance mom experience. this community spans generations, and – holy sugar plums, do we love The Nutcracker!

The Mouse Problem

Staging a large production like The Nutcracker in a small town is no easy feat. John and Karena began with only 17 dancers. John recounted how they had a skeleton crew of extremely talented dancers – but the average age was just 5 years old.

“We had issues with the mice and the soldiers,” he said, chuckling. “The little ones were absolutely terrified of the Mouse King. Whenever he made an appearance, they would dash off stage in fright. Mothers would be

chasing after their little ones in the wings. It was chaos!” Typically, the Mouse King is portrayed as a dark figure, but something had to change because the young dancers were too scared to perform. As an artistic director, John embraced the challenge. Finding this Mouse “problem” funny, he reimagined the Mouse King to resemble a blend of Wile E. Coyote meets the Road Runner. “He’s goofy, and he just keeps coming back – much like the cartoon characters of old,” John said.

Today, the baby mice and Mouse King scene is one of the most popular and everyone in attendance embodies the essence of every dance mom. When those minuscule mice turn to the audience and shake those little tails, even the grumpiest of Grinches can’t help but smile – and the crowd goes wild!

Journey of the Dancer

For most dance moms, the journey into the world of The Nutcracker begins with the role of the Snowflake. This

part starts at the young age of 3. The Snowflakes make their entrance at the end of the “Waltz of the Snowflakes,” the iconic part of the ballet where the company members perform a grand, fast-paced waltz. The tiny Snowflakes flurry onstage during the matinee shows only (thanks to their early bedtimes), wearing fluffy white tutus and adorned with shimmery crowns that make them resemble adorably delicious balls of snow.

They are accompanied by the Snow Queen, who has just completed a challenging pas de deux with the Snow King. This whole scene evokes deep feelings of nostalgia for everyone onstage as well as the audience. Parents of the little Snowflakes are dreaming of the possibility that one day when their daughter is older, she could possibly morph from tiny toddler to picturesque Snow Queen.

Conversely, the parents of the Snow Queen are sobbing because they remember her, years ago, as a delicious Snowflake! This emotion is accompanied by the hauntingly beautiful music of Tchaikovsky. The flittering sounds of the flutes and strings during this piece take the drama into overdrive. The Snowflakes run off stage talking about how they will be mice next year – and the succession of The Nutcracker lives on.

The cast of characters behind this deep tradition are as dynamic as the roles themselves. Ballet master Jamal Edwards and longtime ballet teacher and board member Caitlin Hoffman both speak to the importance of the tradition of the roles.

“The connection comes from where they were and where they are now,” Edwards said. He began dancing at the school as a young teen and has continued as a dance professional and choreographer ever since. In The Nutcracker, he plays a crucial role by guiding the dancers and partnering with them during each pas de deux.

As he shares his experiences, his pride and nurturing spirit shine through, knowing that he is often their first dance partner. “It’s important to make them feel at ease, and supporting them is important,” he said.

Mice, soldiers and party guests take time out for a photo on stage at Dunnagan’s Alley in 1987.

Edwards lays the groundwork, performs, and supports the dancers in partnering with the professional guest dancers from across the country that join the company for the performances. He takes his responsibilities seriously. The bond is strong, and he smiles as he recalls that his inaugural class of ballerinas are now college sophomores. The instructors show as much commitment to the dancers as their families do, and this respect is palpable in every scene.

Hoffman’s connection to HHDT is deeply personal, as her sister danced at ABT alongside Karena Brock-Carlyle.

“Every community has their unique spin on The Nutcracker, but HHDT really takes care to tell the entire story through every role,” she said. “Young or old, each role represents growth and a dream imagined.”

The Frosting

The Nutcracker embodies a real-life snow globe – the saccharine sweetness of the story twirls around and creates such joy. The magic of this production is undeniable. What adds an extra layer of sweetness to HHDT’s Nutcracker are the costumes.

If you’ve been lucky enough to attend performances over the years, you can’t help but notice that the sets and costumes are exceptional. For instance, the Mouse King and the Mouse heads were crafted by renowned puppeteer and puppet master Angela Beasley of Savannah. The stunning backdrops were painted by artist Jack Richard, who creates a fresh original piece for the program every year.

Most impressively, the costumes hold a special place in the production’s history. “In the early years, I used my old costumes from my time at ABT, and my mother, who was an amazing seamstress but preferred the title, costume designer, helped out,” Karena said. “She would even find materials from her home in California – attending bazaars in Beverly Hills where she sometimes discovered gowns worn by actresses! One gown belonged to Greer Garson, a renowned star from Hollywood’s Golden Age. We incorporated that gown into our early costumes, bringing a touch of real Hollywood glamour to our ballerinas.”

A very high standard has been set for the costume designs, John said. “Sometimes we do order something that works out, but a lot of times, we decide to hand-make the costumes,” he said. “It just turns out better that way. We are very particular.”

Behind the scenes, an army of dance moms serve as seamstresses, handsewing the beautiful costumes. Some of these women no longer have children

participating in the production but remain on board to keep the tradition going.

Community

There are few occasions throughout the year when you can truly check your worries at the door, but The Nutcracker offers this escape. You are likely to meet up with a number of friends and neighbors there. While many are drawn to Hilton Head Island because of its beautiful beaches, it’s the sense of community that reels us in and one reason we choose to raise our families here.

On behalf of dance moms everywhere, I encourage you to abandon the bleakness of the real world for a bit and enter the Hilton Head Dance Theatre world that is 40 years in the making. Lean into the kitschy, sticky sweet, and whimsical world of The Nutcracker, where Snow Queens and Sugar Plum Fairies come to life and mischievous Mice linger in the wings as Dew Drops and Chocolate prance about in the Land of Sweets ... a place where the magic of the holidays lasts forever.

Performances of The Nutcracker will be November 14-15, 21-22 at 7:30 p.m. and November 16 and 23 at 2:30 p.m. at the Seahawk Cultural Center, 50 Wilborn Road. Tickets are available at hiltonheaddance.com. 

Article by Brooke Peck

TIME TO

TURKEY TROT

Each year, Thanksgiving Day holds the most 5K races in the country compared to any other calendar day. Sacramento’s Race to Feed the Hungry claimed to be the largest Thanksgiving Day Race in 2024, with about 31,000 combined finishers between its 5K and 10K.

Thankfully for folks spending Thanksgiving on Hilton Head Island, anyone can participate in the largest annual race day at the 2025 Hilton Head Turkey Trot 5K. Runners and walkers are invited to get in on the holiday fun, kicking off at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning. An estimated 1,800 people of all ages will hit the pavement for the 37th annual event.

The race has become an annual tradition for many locals and visitors. Multigenerational families will lace up for the athletic adventure which welcomes runners, walkers, and strollers (but no pets) to enjoy a cool morning together. Kristin Keller and her good friend, Julie James, have been Turkey Trotting together for 18 years, except for one year, when Julie was pregnant with her son. In 2014, their young daughters joined in on the fun and ever since, it’s become an annual girls’ activity for their foursome to kick off the holiday morning.

Julie and her daughter, Taylor, drive to Kristin’s house early each Thanksgiving Day and they all walk to the starting line together. They love competing in the race, seeing lots of friends and having fun. “It’s just a great way to start Thanksgiving – and we’ve made it a tradition,” Kristin said. Afterwards, they grab a beer at the finish line then head back to Kristin’s house for coffee and to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade together. Kristin’s daughter, Laura, was unable to run the 5K last year so instead she stayed involved with the annual tradition by being a volunteer at the event. She proudly presented the other women with their finisher medals at the finish line.

Turkey trotters are encouraged to dress up for the holiday, so don’t be surprised to see several turkeys and Pilgrims making their way along the course. Folks from all over the country are on the island for the long weekend. For many participants, it’s the only 5K race they do each year because they love their family tradition of competing together. “It’s always packed with a ton of tourists too, which is so great to see,” Kristin said. “It’s fun to see families running together with their turkey hats on and their matching T-shirts.”

In one of the more memorable years for the foursome, Taylor’s brother accidentally jumped on Laura the weekend before Thanksgiving, breaking her arm. Laura was determined to complete the race anyway, and gave it her all while wearing a sling and speed walking down the course.

Island Rec Center's Joe Cain with CH2's Maggie Washo and Kim Crouch at the Turkey Trot, circa 2020.

The foursome in 2023, from left: Kristin Keller, Laura Keller, Taylor James, and Julie James.

This family friendly event is hosted by the Island Recreation Center. It kicks off from Skull Creek Boathouse, travels into Hilton Head Plantation, then turns around and heads straight back to the starting line, aka the finish line. For those serious about the competition, chip timers are used to measure official race times. Awards will be given to first, second, and third places for the fastest overall men and women. Fruit, pastries, and beer are available at the finish line party along with a giant screen to check out official race times.

Kristin, who serves as the board president of the Island Recreation Center, said, “It’s just a great, feel-good, family event for the community and it’s truly an island tradition.”

Registration is $50 per competitor, which includes a long-sleeve T-shirt and finisher medal. Pets are not allowed. Visit islandreccenter.org to sign up but be aware, registration usually sells out the week before Thanksgiving.

The event is a fundraiser for the Island Recreation Center, whose goal is to make sure no child is denied access to recreation because of the cost. 

Article by Brooke Peck

Creating Community at the Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade

The seventh annual Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade will step off at sunset November 22 from the shore at Alder Lane beach access. An estimated 1,500 parade participants will carry their illuminated sculptures along South Forest Beach while thousands of onlookers take in the sunset and a sea of bright lanterns.

Lantern creativity will be on full display with a variety of creatures, shapes, sizes, humor, movement, colors, and lighting options. Interwoven in the procession of lanterns will be Black Sheep Ensemble, Soda City Band, Atlanta Drum Academy, and the US Marine Corps Dirty Boots Brass Band delivering the beat and energy for the gathering.

The parade started in 2019 with a partnership between the Town of Hilton Head Island and the Krewe of Grateful Gluttons from Atlanta. Together, the organizations work together to seamlessly blend logistics, safety, beauty, creativity, and community into one spectacular event. Each year the event grows in attendance and participation, making it one of the biggest events on the island.

Chantelle Rytter, owner of Weird Gone Pro, is the creative genius behind the annual parade. She is leader and head artist of the Krewe of the Grateful Gluttons, which was founded in 1999 in New Orleans as a Mardi Gras Parade Krewe. After a move back to Georgia in 2001, she permanently rehomed the Krewe to Atlanta and now they are responsible for spearheading the creative portion of the Lantern Parade. Members of the Krewe handcraft and transport the energetic puppets to Hilton Head each year. For this year’s parade, the Krewe will bring 28 members to parade and share 24 exquisite puppets with spectators.

Asked about her creative motivation for the island’s parade, Rytter said it was easy, because “The natural world at Hilton Head is just so rich.” Since the beginning, her popular sea creature lanterns have included a large loggerhead sea turtle, bright

seahorses, and a variety of interactive shore birds. She designs and builds a new animal each year. She and the Krewe enjoy raising up (figuratively and literally) the sea animals and is excited to unveil this year’s newest illuminated creations – horseshoe crabs.

Crafting these large sea creatures requires impeccable detail and Rytter jokes they are “mostly made out of time.”

To design a lantern creature, Rytter said she starts with a scale-sized drawing and tries to keep the proportions accurate because it’s easy to get too big. Interior framing is constructed from willow, bamboo, and cane. Most are wrapped in fabric, secured with glue, and covered in lots of patience.

Rytter rehearses with the creatures during the fabrication process to check their movability because beauty and crowd interaction are both valuable. Each creation takes 20 to 50 hours depending on the puppet type. Finally, packability is an important concern because the lanterns need to travel to distant parade locations easily and without injury.

Rytter’s largest parade is the Atlanta Beltline Lantern Parade, which snakes its way down the city’s Beltline Trail each May. In the first 10 years of its existence, it attracted crowds with an estimated 60,000 people at its peak on the Eastside Trail. It was moved to the Southwest Trail a few years ago and still attracts 15,000 annual participants.

Rytter and the Krewe hold lantern parades throughout the year in and around Atlanta. Recently, she’s expanded to plan parades in Tennessee and Florida.

Even though she’s participated in more than 100 parades, Rytter said she still gets goose bumps seeing communities come together to celebrate creativity, energy and joy. “We all have a common calling to delight one another,” she said. “We love to make other people smile.”

Her parades unite people and deeply connect them to the places where they experience that joy.

Each year, immediately after the Hilton Head Lantern Parade, her Atlanta Krewe starts talking about coming back the following year because their experience is “soul satisfying.”

Office of Cultural Affairs

Lantern parade logistics and planning are handled by the Office of Cultural Affairs at the Town of Hilton Head. Formed eight years ago, the department supports diverse arts and cultural nonprofit groups and their programs on the island. Natalie Harvey, director of cultural affairs, said they are a “cheerleader for diverse arts and cultural opportunities.” The organization works to give accolades and support to the island’s talent and manages resources, including the town’s public art collection.

Another department goal is to introduce folks to new experiences. The Lantern Parade is a great example of various island organizations inviting people of all ages to create lanterns and participate in the parade.

Alana Adams, education director at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, spearheads the effort to invite and provide opportunities for students at local schools to participate.

Hilton Head Creative Arts Elementary and Hilton Head Island Elementary IB are provided lantern craft supplies from the Office of Cultural Affairs to create lanterns and participate in the parade as well. Additionally, community groups like Pockets Full of Sunshine, Sea Turtle Patrol, Boys and Girls Club, and Mitchelville all craft lanterns to carry in the evening parade. “It’s wonderful to have a community of all ages to participate together,” Harvey said. “It’s a great celebration.”

She is also quick to point out that the Lantern Parade is a heavy lift requiring help across several Town of Hilton Head departments, including code enforcement, the facilities team, and traffic management. The Island Recreation

Association organizes the food and drink offerings at Lowcountry Celebration Park for the parade’s after party. Numerous volunteers also contribute their time to help make the event a big success.

2025 Lantern Parade Details

Parade participants start from Alder Lane Beach Access at 5:30 p.m. and gradually work their way north towards the Tiki Hut. Participants are reminded that this is not a race, but instead a slow-moving stream of people, music, and lanterns. New this year, the parade makes a left turn at the Tiki Hut and exits the beach there. The parade crosses South Forest Beach Drive, moves through the beach parking lot, and on to the finish in Lowcountry Celebration Park. The party there features live music from Groove Town Assault, with food trucks, beverages, and plenty of room to interact with their favorite lanterns and handlers, and to just sit in awe of the creativity of others.

Parking is a challenge for this well-attended event, so it is recommended to arrive early. Available lots include Coligny Beach parking lot, the former Wild Wings and Aunt Chiladas, along with First Baptist Church, St. Luke’s Anglican Church, and Providence Presbyterian Church. Shuttles and additional parking are available at USCB Hilton Head campus at 1 Sand Shark Drive, with Breeze buses continuously running to and from Lowcountry Celebration Park throughout the evening. Because the parade kicks off at sunset and is held in the dark, attendees are encouraged to bring flashlights or fully charged cell phones to help them safely navigate uneven ground.

If you want to avoid the beach, Celebration Park is a great place to enjoy the festivities. Food trucks will be set up from 3 to 9 p.m. Groove Town Assault will begin playing around

5:45 p.m. until 8 p.m., with an intermission for the “puppet jam” when the parade arrives in the park. A jumbotron will also be set up in the park for livestreaming of the parade.

Want to enjoy the parade from your own home? Tune into the Beaufort County television station for livestreaming of the event from the comfort of your couch. For more information, visit culturehhi.org.

Lantern Making Workshops

Numerous lantern creation workshops are planned across the island in November. The public is invited to participate in crafting lanterns to bring as parade participant or attendee. Below are details for upcoming lantern-making events. Note that reservations and payment are required for some events; confirm details with each location.

• Carolina Coffee & Crumbs, (843) 342-4800

Open to the public and free for everyone to attend. Bring your own materials or use what’s provided. Instruction by Emily Holyoak. No registration required.

Tuesday, Nov. 18, 5-7 p.m. Free

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 5-7 p.m. Free

• Coastal Discovery Museum, coastaldiscovery.org

We provide all the necessary supplies, including lights. Just bring your creativity.

Thursday, Nov. 13, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Jellyfish, ages 13+, $40

Saturday, Nov. 15, 10-11:30 a.m. & 2-3:30 p.m. Family Workshop, $20 per lantern, $5 per adult

Thursday, Nov. 20, 5:30-7:30 p.m., ages 13+, $40

• Full Spectrum Studio, fullspectrumstudio.org

Wednesday, Nov. 5, 4 -6 p.m., $25

Wednesday, Nov. 12, 6-8 p.m., $25

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 4-6 p.m., $25

Parking is a challenge for this well-attended event, so it is recommended to arrive early.

• Hilton Head Library, beaufortcountylibrary.org/ hilton-head-branch

Tuesday, Nov. 18, Homeschoolers’ Art Studio, ages 8+. Free

• Sandbox Children’s Museum, thesandbox.org

Friday, Nov. 21, 11 a.m

Want to construct your own lantern at home? Paper lanterns kits and instructions are available online or at craft stores. Also, check out Rytter’s lantern parade website and free patterns and instructions at weirdgonepro.com/lanternparade-resources. Let your creativity flow! 

Article by Sheila Tucker . Photography by M.Kat

Busy MeanDoesn’t Better

Strands of blonde hair stuck to my forehead and cheeks. Rocking the middle school-issued gold shorts and a white boxy T-shirt. I was poised at the painter’s tape line on the gym floor, ready to go as soon as the whistle blew.

I was off. In my stride, sprinting from one end of the gym and back again, 50-yard dash style. Kenny, my competition,

had no chance. Picking up one block and placing it at the other end of the gym. Then back again two more times. I felt unstoppable. Sweet victory was only a few feet away. No doubt, I was winning this race.

It meant everything and absolutely nothing.

Sure, I had bragging rights. I wouldn’t use them. This was a competition between me and self-worth, not Kenny, or how fast I could complete an insignificant task. Kenny was merely the sprinkles on my “winning equals self-worth” cupcake.

I’m fairly certain that the shuttle run was foundational in teaching me that you get rewarded for rushing, and that there’s an element of beat-the-clock to everything you do. There’s a part of me that’s been running this race ever since. Thanks, middle school gym class!

Rushing around trying to keep up with work, chores, life, friends … the list could go on for days. There’s a struggle to

juggle everything, a hesitation to put a ball down, let alone let one drop. But why? To prove what point? That I’ve got it all together? That I’m good enough?

It’s so incredibly ingrained. Busyness. Rushing. A badge of honor. A quiet competition to see who’s juggling the most.

Our society has handed us praise for our packed schedules and constant motion. Slowing down sends the message you could be doing more. Resting? Well, that’s just laziness. (I have a lot to say about rest in the September 2025 issue of CH2/CB2.) Don’t you know there’s always something to do? Stillness? Oh no, that’s indulgent.

And the messaging runs deep. If your calendar is full, it must mean you’re in demand. If you’re exhausted, it must mean you’re important. If you’re always doing something, surely you’re doing something right.

Then there’s the underlying belief that if you keep moving, keep pushing, keep doing, you’ll earn something in return. Approval. Self-worth. Possibly a gold star?

What if all this busyness and rushing is simply noise?

Hear me out. What if I told you that slowing down allows you to choose presence over performance? I didn’t believe it either.

Let me be very clear: Slowing down doesn’t mean doing less, although it could. It means doing what matters with more focus, more intention, and fewer unnecessary detours. It’s realizing that not everything needs to be done right this minute – although it often feels like it. Some things can wait. And sometimes, the most productive choice is the one that looks the least impressive from the outside. It’s also knowing that sometimes you’ll have to hustle. Because that’s the season of life you’re in. And in this hustle, you can still find some stillness, even if it’s taking

If everything’s a race, you’ll always be running past your own life. You don’t have to win to belong. You don’t have to prove your value by exhausting yourself.

an intentional breath between tasks or pick-up lines.

The myth of busyness says: You’re only doing enough if you’re doing it all.

Slowing down challenges that. It says: Enough is enough. You can take a beat. Breathe. Think. You don’t have to run on autopilot.

It sounds counterintuitive, but slowing down allows you to work more effectively. Here’s how:

• You make space to focus and be more present, rather than frantically multitasking.

• You remember things more easily because you’re not rushing past them.

• You listen more fully.

• And, ironically, you often get more done – because you’re doing it with presence instead of panic.

When I’m feeling flustered and at my wits’ end, I’ve started asking myself these questions. I challenge you to do the same.

• What actually matters to me in this moment?

• What’s mine to carry and what can I put down (for now)?

• What am I doing out of obligation, and what’s rooted in purpose?

• Is this something I can ask someone to help me with?

I’ll be the first to admit I’m still a work in progress. My default setting is to rush towards a false sense of achievement, like I did in middle school gym class.

The lesson in all of this “go-go-go” mentality? As you begin to unhook your value from your achievement, you stop trying to earn your worth. Instead, you start claiming it.

You get to define success for yourself. That may look like getting one thing done on your to-do list, instead of being in constant motion.

It doesn’t mean abandoning your responsibilities or pretending life isn’t demanding. It simply means that your selfworth no longer has to hinge on how much you accomplish in a day.

If everything’s a race, you’ll always be running past your own life. You don’t have to win to belong. You don’t have to prove your value by exhausting yourself.

Sometimes, the most loving thing you can do for yourself – and the people around you – is to slow down, to choose quality over speed.

To slow down, not because you’ve earned it, but because you’re human (and you deserve it).

To decide that your value doesn’t come from how busy you are, but from who you are when you stop trying to earn love or self-worth through doing. 

A LINE IN THE SAND

Topic: Thanksgiving, Family Fueds or Fun?

COURTNEY’S OPINION

Barry’s Thanksgiving wine glass is half empty. But to survive my family Thanksgiving, glasses are full, if not overflowing. I kid, I kid. But to avoid (er, ignore) the politics, religion, et al. debate, priming the pump is a decent strategy.

Growing up, Thanksgiving meant heading north on the Garden State Parkway to exit 124B to 78 East to Madison, New Jersey, and Uncle Peter’s house. The kids would all head down to the basement, belly up to the bar and order fake drinks from our older cousin “Little Peter” whilst avoiding the rogue flying dart. My father and his brothers would be upstairs lobbing insults at their sister’s husband … first Uncle Ray for being Italian and later Uncle Jim for being, well, not Ray. Aunt Ann made the turkey and the stuffing. The other aunts and my mom managed the rest.

My dad was the youngest of four so as his nieces and nephews got older, moved away, and got married, the Hampson Family Thanksgiving went by the wayside and

we’d gather with my mom’s family, in which I was the oldest cousin, but we all reached legal status within a few years of each other and eventually could play drinking games before the holiday meal.

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. I think it is because there are no presents. (I love giving but I abhor the pressure of receiving and having to pretend I like a gift when I do not. My hips and my face do not lie.) A holiday focused on the food and family is more my speed. In my early 20s, I was a Martha Stewart loyalist, a Martha Stewart Living subscriber, who prayed at the altar of “it’s a good thing,” yearning to be the perfect hostess. My fatal flaw – and the family joke – remains my holiday timeline, which begins three days out and runs through dessert. It is a bit much, but it has yet to let me down, apart from the burnt biscuits debacle of 2023.

Of course, if I had not married a Southerner, there would be no biscuits. I would still be team crescent roll. My husband is always the sole Southerner at gatherings of my brethren. Bless his heart. His Bluffton-born-and-bredBaptist-conservative roots are a hard match for the barbthrowing New Jersey banter that we are known for lobbing about. He bites his tongue for six hours and spends five and half wondering why it takes us six hours to have a meal.

A Cramer family Thanksgiving means eating at noon and being back home by 2 p.m. A Hampson family Thanksgiving

means you arrive at 2 p.m., load up on hours of appetizers, bourbon cocktails, and games.

Oh yes, we are a highly competitive group, so there is always a game (i.e., something to argue and trash talk about) and, thus, Thanksgiving always has a winner and a loser. Dinner is served around 4:30 or 5 p.m. The nieces and my mom do the dishes. And then we must rest before dessert. All said and done, you are lucky if you are back on the road by 8 p.m. The end is usually signaled by me running the vacuum beneath the table at which you are still sitting.

But over the years, there are also non-negotiables that we have agreed to disagree on:

1. We will make both my stuffing and his grandmother’s stuffing.

2. We will make two turkeys: one on the smoker and one fried. I do not have a preference on taste; I am simply happy that the oven is empty to bake two stuffings.

3. There will be (inexplicably to me) macaroni and cheese.

4. The mashed potatoes are now made the day before, so I do not spend the entire day pissed off that I am mashing potatoes while everyone else is drinking and playing games.

5. My sister always makes pumpkin muffins. No questions asked.

6. It is easier to order the pies than make them. But I will make homemade whip cream as a compromise.

7. When I am prepping in the kitchen on Wednesday, he is outside or running errands. Please don’t ask me if I need help. Of course, I need help, but you will not do it right, so it is better to just not be in the house. Enjoy your day-cation.

8. We will watch “Home for the Holidays” on Thanksgiving Eve. IYKYK.

9. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will be on the TV all morning.

10. After which we will switch to football, and sound will be off, until after dinner.

No need for fighting, words, or debate. We all know that the North won the war and apple pie trumps pumpkin all day long. 

BARRY'S OPINION

Every year Thanksgiving is the same old, same old – the family gets together to exchange strained pleasantries over a hearty meal of sides that haven’t been popular since Puritan times and a turkey that no one wants to admit is so dry it’s like taking the cinnamon challenge. We tiptoe around each other’s feelings, wearing the least comfortable clothing we own, simply so that we can catch up on things we already read about on social media. We try to ignore the smells coming from both the kids’ table and the grandparents’ table. Worst of all, we pretend to care about the Detroit Lions.

It’s one of the few holidays where nobody’s happy, and yet we go back and do it again every November. But not this year.

This Thanksgiving, why not spice things up a bit by getting into a fight with your loved ones?

Yes, I know some of you wet blankets out there might shun my forward-thinking ideas, saying things like “Thanksgiving is a time to focus on gratitude, not inflame culture war outrage” or “an assault charge will become part of your permanent criminal record.” But I think it’s high time we made Thanksgiving what it was always meant to be – a full-contact brawl to determine exactly who in the family can claim dominance over the conversation. There’s never been a better time to try out my new spin on the holiday. I

Left, right, liberal, conservative, libertarian, it doesn’t matter what label they put on themselves. Everyone is a snowflake now. You’re free to disagree with me, but please know if you do, you are part of the problem. And odds are, so are several of your relatives.

don’t know if you’ve initiated a conversation with a stranger lately, but it is remarkably easy to get a rise out of people these days. Finding out why is a column for another time, but I’m almost positive that the massive profitability of polarizing and radicalizing people online to ensure they stay rooted to their phones may or may not have everything to do with it.

Left, right, liberal, conservative, libertarian, it doesn’t matter what label they put on themselves. Everyone is a snowflake now. You’re free to disagree with me, but please know if you do, you are part of the problem. And odds are, so are several of your relatives.

So, with that in mind, I’ve assembled the following verbal hand grenades that you can lob into any conversation to ensure your Thanksgiving becomes the sort of take-noprisoners bloodbath this holiday was always meant to be.

“So, who’s psyched for Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl?”

“Y’know, Tucker Carlson had some very interesting things to say on that very subject.”

“I for one think DOGE didn’t do enough for this country.”

“Maybe it’s just me, but Taylor Swift’s new album might be her best work yet.”

“Would it be ‘woke’ of me to say this cranberry sauce is like bat vomit?”

“Anyone watch Kimmel last night?”

“Who’s up for watching Sound of Freedom after this?”

“Can I share this list of other countries that already require voters to present ID?”

“This year, I’m thankful for The Joe Rogan Experience.”

Hopefully I’ve given you enough runway that you can take off and fly no matter what direction your particular family leans. Just remember to keep it disrespectful, have bail money at the ready, and be sure to grab a slice of pumpkin pie before things get too bloody.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! 

be found on their website: hullhusk.com

Article by Cheryl Ricer

Hull & Husk

Turning the Humble Shell into National Innovation

When Jared Jester describes the journey of Hull & Husk, his Bluffton-based company that transforms agricultural byproducts into premium grilling pellets and feeds, his eyes light up. “We wanted to take what was once considered waste and turn it into opportunity,” he said. “It’s about sustainability, but also about creating products that truly work for people.”

The story begins with pecans. South Carolina and Georgia are steeped in pecan farming tradition, yet every year tons of shells were discarded after harvest. For Jester, who had already proven himself as an entrepreneur in the tech world, this waste stream looked more like an untapped resource.

“I came from an industry where innovation was about solving problems with code,” Jester said. “Here in Bluffton, the problem wasn’t digital – it was agricultural. I asked myself, ‘What if these shells could have a second life?’”

His idea was bold: Compress the shells into cleanburning fuel pellets that could rival or surpass wood pellets in performance. Early tests were daunting. The shells crumbled

under pressure, machinery failed, and the ratios weren’t quite right. But Jester, driven by both curiosity and conviction, refused to give up.

That entrepreneurial grit came from years in the startup world. Before Hull & Husk, Jester had co-founded and sold a successful app development firm, learning lessons about risk, adaptation, and the value of innovation.

“I didn’t know much about agriculture when I started,” he said. “But I knew about problem-solving, and I was willing to learn.”

Cracking the Code on Pellets

Hull & Husk’s breakthrough came after countless trials. By fine-tuning moisture levels, grinding consistency, and compression techniques, Jester and his small team created a pellet that burned hotter and cleaner than wood. The benefits were striking. Pecan shell pellets produced less ash, left behind a subtle nutty aroma, and offered high heat retention.

Soon after, Jester expanded the line to include coffee grounds, another agricultural byproduct that would

otherwise end up in landfills. Coffee pellets delivered an even bolder smoke and bark, quickly winning over barbecue enthusiasts.

“Coffee burns about 40% hotter than wood pellets, therefore requiring less to cook with,” Jester notes. “It surprised even us, but once we saw the performance, we knew we were onto something special.”

The line grew further with blends like Pecan Rosemary and Coffee Clove, designed to give chefs and home cooks more flavor control.

It wasn’t long before Hull & Husk pellets caught the attention of professional chefs. Their feedback validated everything Jester had hoped to achieve.

In July 2025, Hull & Husk hit a new milestone when WTOC, the Savannahbased CBS affiliate, aired a segment titled “Making Grilling Pellets from Nut Shells.” The broadcast offered an inside look at the Bluffton facility and showcased a chef putting the pellets to the test. “The pellets afford a high BTU, they’re clean, and produce a beautiful smoke,” a local chef said.

For barbecue purists, the flavor profile was equally important. “The Pecan/ Coffee pellets give your brisket great flavor and a beautiful bark, which is definitely what you want when you Bar-B-Que,” the chef added.

To anyone unfamiliar with barbecue culture, “bark” might sound like an odd culinary term. But for pitmasters, it’s the holy grail – the dark, caramelized crust formed on slow-cooked meats when smoke, fat, and spices meld into perfection. Achieving that bark is a badge of honor, and Hull & Husk’s pellets deliver.

Hearing such praise on television meant the world to Jester. “It validated what we’ve been working toward – real chefs, real kitchens, saying these pellets make a difference.”

Beyond the Backyard Grill

Grilling pellets were only the beginning. Hunters and wildlife enthusiasts became unexpected champions of Hull & Husk’s innovation. The company introduced STAG deer feed, a protein-rich blend, followed by specialty mixes like Dove Love and Songbird Supreme, which attracted flocks of feathered visitors to Lowcountry backyards.

8 Pound Pouch of Pure Pecan Shell Cooking Pellets

STAG - All Natural Deer Feed.

Then came Deer Fear, a coffee-andgarlic-based repellent. Gardeners praised it as a natural, chemical-free way to protect crops and flowers.

The diversity of applications surprised even Jester. “Every time we looked at an agricultural byproduct, we asked: ‘How can we give this new life?’” he said. “That mindset has fueled everything we’ve done.”

For Jester, success is about more than sales. Hull & Husk has forged partnerships with local pecan processors, coffee roasters, and farmers, ensuring that byproducts are redirected into the supply chain instead of discarded.

The ripple effects are significant: new revenue streams for small farms, reduced waste in landfills, and a growing sense of pride in Bluffton’s contribution to sustainable innovation. “People around here know they’re part of something bigger,” Jester said. “When they see Hull & Husk on the shelves, they know it started right here in their backyard.”

The company has also created jobs in the region, from machine operators to packaging staff, and is inspiring other entrepreneurs to look at agricultural waste in new ways.

Hull & Husk’s growth has been steady but deliberate. The products began showing up in ACE Hardware locations in Port Royal and Brunson, then expanded online through Amazon and into specialty shops like Lowcountry Fresh Market and Messex Supply.

One of the company’s most innovative programs is its Bucket Bounty Program, which allows customers to buy pellets in reusable buckets. They simply bring the bucket back for a refill, eliminating the need for plastic bags. “It’s a small change with a big environmental payoff,” Jester said.

Sustainability is more than a talking point, it’s measurable. Hull & Husk is proud to operate as a carbon-negative company. By repurposing shells, husks, and grounds that would otherwise decompose and release methane, the company offsets more greenhouse gas than it produces.

For Jester, this achievement validates his vision. “It’s not just about building a business,” he said. “It’s about building one that helps solve a problem.”

What makes Hull & Husk compelling is its versatility. Hunters appreciate the nutrition of STAG feed. Gardeners swear by Deer Fear to keep crops safe. Bird lovers find joy in Songbird Supreme. Chefs, both at home and professional, rave about the flavor control of the pecan and coffee blends.

The products don’t just meet consumer needs; they also foster a sense of community. By sourcing shells and grounds from local farmers and roasters, Hull & Husk keeps its supply chain close to home while supporting neighboring businesses.

The Future: Scaling Without Compromise

As Hull & Husk looks to the future, expansion is inevitable. Jester sees opportunities in new markets, from eco-friendly repellents to larger-scale wildlife nutrition lines. Yet he insists the company will grow with integrity.

“Our goal isn’t just to be bigger,” he said. “It’s to be better – better for the environment, better for our customers, better for our community.”

Looking ahead, Jester envisions Hull & Husk products in kitchens and backyards across America, with pecan shells, coffee grounds, and other agricultural remnants fueling a nationwide movement toward sustainable living. “We’ve only scratched the surface,” he said. “There are countless byproducts waiting for someone to reimagine them.”

From humble pecan shells to national headlines, Hull & Husk proves that innovation doesn’t always start in a lab or Silicon Valley boardroom. Sometimes, it starts with a cracked shell on the ground – and someone with the imagination to see what it could become. 

a

Article by Brooke Peck

by Maggie Washo

Shrimping on the

TAMMY JANE

There is nothing quite like the thrill of throwing out a cast net along a Lowcountry creek at low tide. Watching creatures quickly jump around the tossed net and seeing the water splash is captivating because you never know what you might catch.

The feeling is similar to the exhilaration of checking lottery numbers or opening a college admission letter. I love the excitement of finding out what I caught. When I was a child, my family frequently visited Beaufort for fall weekend trips and that’s where I learned to throw a cast net. Each catch would bring in shrimp, small fish, and an occasional crab. I could exhaustingly toss the net for hours, fueled by the adrenaline of what I might catch if I threw “just one more time.”

Though I have been catching my own shrimp for decades, I’ve always been curious to experience time on a commercial shrimp boat. I wanted to understand the net dragging process, learn about deep dwelling fish, and observe how the pros do it all. Thankfully, the Tammy Jane in Harbour Town Yacht Basin offers this adventure to locals and visitors on a two-hour shrimping and educational excursion.

On a partly cloudy, warm September afternoon, Maggie Washo, Jevon Daly, and I hopped aboard the Tammy Jane to experience shrimp trawling for ourselves. Captain Renee Iannotti, one of the female captains featured in C2’s August issue, was at the helm, assisted by first mate Sam Bradfield and intern Lauren Roop.

Captain Renee Iannotti works to repair the net before trawling.

The day's haul from the Tammy Jane shrimping expedition. Everyone learned how to pop off the shrimp heads.

Operated by Vagabond Cruises, the Tammy Jane is the only commercially licensed shrimp boat used for recreational shrimping in the whole country. What this means is they are able to take folks out for educational excursions, drag their nets, and then divvy up the catch for those on board. Built in 1985, the vessel measures 45 feet long and can hold up to 28 guests.

Shrimping season typically opens in May and runs through the first week of January, with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR) having the authority to adjust those timelines. The Tammy Jane offers shrimping excursions two to three times a day from June through early January, and crabbing adventures the remainder of the year.

After sounding off four horns, Capt. Iannotti safely backed us out of the dock and we were on our way toward Calibogue Sound. Bradfield and Roop covered the safety information and we all peered at the blue skies and surrounding shorelines. With the boat’s large shade canopy and a slight breeze, the temps were very enjoyable.

As we reached our trawling location about 15 minutes later, Bradfield explained to us how the nets work. About 200 feet of cable lowers the net to the bottom of the waterway. Wooden doors are used to open the net wide and keep it open as it skims the bottom of the ocean. Next, he explained how the Turtle Exclusion Device (TED) works. This device is in place to safely prevent sea turtles and other large fish from getting caught in the widespread net. This contraption became mandatory in the 1990s for all shrimp boats and has a 99% efficiency rate.

Shrimp are typically huddled at the bottom of the waterways, so a chain is used to drag along the bottom to “tickle” the shrimp up into the net. It’s estimated that 70% to 80% of the shrimp caught are the result the chain. Once the net was in place, Tammy Jane started its 45minutes of “trawling” or net dragging by making big loops between Daufuskie Island and Sea Pines.

We used this time to soak up the stunning marsh views. Dolphins were everywhere. A pod was aggressively going after a school of bait fish. We saw lots of jumping, splashing, and even some spinning. Washo watched a huge fish jump in the distance and Bradfield said it was probably a tarpon or spinner shark.

The crew sells water, soft drinks, and cold beer so it was also a great time for refreshments. My favorite boat snack is a can of boiled peanuts, so Daly and I enjoyed that Lowcountry delicacy together.

As we trawled, Bradfield shared educational information about the two main varieties of shrimp in our area – white and brown shrimp. White shrimp are more plentiful than brown and make up roughly 80% of the harvest. Brown shrimp have slightly harder shells and migrate offshore as adults. Each female shrimp lays about one million eggs and her entire life cycle takes about a year.

After we snacked and learned about shrimp, it was finally time for what we had all been waiting for – hauling in our catch. Bradfield carefully operated the hydraulic winch to bring in the long cable attached to the net. As our excitement grew, so did the enthusiasm of nearby aquatic animals. Dolphins began following close to the boat while birds were diving down to grab any creatures that might have worked their way out of the net.

Bradfield and Roop worked together to untie the net and empty the catch into a basket. Then they dumped the haul across the sorting table in front of the guests and the real fun began. Equal parts shrimp and fish were jumping all over the place. White and brown shrimp of all sizes were in the pile, along with a few of a lesser-caught variety, pink shrimp.

Most of the bait fish we caught were the exact same size and type, with a few random creatures sprinkled in the mix. Bradfield presented a unique fish to us, a hog choker, which felt like rough sandpaper in one direction and very smooth in the opposite. Several small squid were among the catch and Bradfield ate one variety right away – his hands covered in black ink. We also caught some small whiting and baby sea trout and learned that spade fish are one of the only fish that eat jelly fish.

Quickly, we worked to throw the fish back in the water, where they were immediately mobbed by hundreds of seagulls. They were desperate for an easy snack and they had found an all-you-can-eat buffet on the Tammy Jane. We all watched in amazement as Bradfield held a small fish up to the sky, demonstrating that the birds would eat out of his hand.

Then someone else showed up at the party – a 5-foot spinner shark on the port side of the boat. He was there for a snack too. Fresh shrimp are what had brought us onboard the Tammy Jane but the real stars of the show were a flock of seagulls swarming our boat and the dolphins and sharks surrounding us. Honestly, the whole experience felt like a movie.

After the fish were put back in the ocean or into seagull bellies, Bradfield taught us how to pinch the heads off the shrimp we caught. He demonstrated how to hold the head with one hand and the shrimp’s body with the other then “pinching” the head away from the body, which removed the head and the digestive line from the body in one swift movement. Anyone who wanted to give it a try was invited up to the table to practice this new skill. Finally, they packaged the shrimp in bags of ice for tour guests to take home and cook for supper.

We all enjoyed a delightful day – learning about sea creatures, watching dolphins, being mesmerized by seagulls, and training to be shrimpers. 

ARTICLE BY JESSE BLANCO PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

OYSTER FESTIVAL 2025

One way you can tell that I have spent a long time living in this area is the fact that one morning a few weeks ago, I stepped out of my front door on my way to the gym before 7 a.m. and was hit with one of the first nips of a chill in the air. My first thought was “Oh, I like this!” The second?

“Oyster season isn’t all that far off.”

One of the many good things that have happened to me since moving to Lowcountry all those years ago is learning to appreciate quality oysters. Certainly foodwise anyway. Growing up in South Florida our culture was more crab, shrimp, and lobster than oysters. It wasn’t until I started spending time near Apalachicola, Florida, that I came to really get into oysters. When they are great, few things are better in my book.

It’s why the Hilton Head Oyster Festival is among my favorite events of the year and it’s around the corner –November 7-8 at Lowcountry Celebration Park.

If you have attended in the past, then you know the drill. If you haven’t, I consider it to be a beautiful cross-section of life in the Lowcountry, featuring live music, activities for the kids, and, of course, all kinds of foods beyond oysters. Seafood, BBQ, chili, and more are staples at the Oyster Festival – directly from the “something for everyone” file.

How fresh are these oysters?

“There was one year where we ran out on Friday, and Roy had someone go out early the next morning and harvest some more,” said Frank Soule, executive director of the Island Recreation Association, the group behind the event for the better part of three decades.

“I remember the first one was over at Palmetto Bay Marina. Captain Woody’s used to be down there. It was an evening thing that time.” he said. “It was so popular, someone suggested we turn it into a fundraiser.”

And so, they did. Last year alone, Island Rec donated more than $280,000 to a variety of island charities, including scholarships for their summer program and many others.

The Oyster Festival alone will account for roughly $30,000 to $40,000 of that total. Yes, it’s a big event that requires a ton of work year-round by a lot of dedicated people, but the benefits are far reaching.

Here’s the skinny on how to attend:

Friday night, they are offering an all-you-can-eat oyster roast from 5 to 8 p.m. at Shelter Cove Community Park. Admission is $60 per adult, $45 for those 12 and under. You can pool some money with friends and secure a table of 10 for $700. There will be live music and an overall good time.

Saturday is the main event. It will get going at 11 a.m. at Lowcountry Celebration Park (yes, different from Friday’s

The Hilton Head Oyster Festival will return November 8 at Lowcountry Celebration Park.

The event will feature live music, activities for the kids and all kinds of food beyond oysters.

Peel and eat shrimp is served at last year's event.

event). Admission is only $10, but food then become a la carte. A bucket of oysters will run you $30. Cost for other foods and beer will vary, obviously.

One important thing to keep in mind is that the Oyster Festival is entirely cashless. Cards or digital vouchers will be your only option to purchase anything. Don’t say you weren’t warned.

Saturday will also feature live music by local musicians Rock Candy (I’ve been trying to catch up with them for a minute), Soul Remedy, and CornBred.

It’s a full day of fun, rain or shine, with no refunds on your tickets if the weather doesn’t agree with you. They’ve thrown plenty of parties in the rain.

For more information and a few more details on what the Island Rec Center does in the area, check out islandrecenter.org 

ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN

WE’RE NOT DONE YET

First Tee – The Lowcountry Launches Annual Appeal

There’s an old saying in golf: “Drive for show, putt for dough.” Essentially, it’s an adage about finishing strong. You can blast one 250 yards down the fairway and land it clean in the middle, but if you end up three putting, it’s still going to be a bogey.

This past year has seen First Tee – The Lowcountry soar to new heights, reaching more kids and making a bigger impact than ever before. And in the spirit of putting for dough, they’re not slowing.

With the launch of its annual appeal, “Finish Strong and Build Game Changers,” First Tee is calling on the community to help take this year’s incredible success to the pin.

“We’ve seen firsthand what’s possible when a community invests in kids,” said Pat Zuk, executive director of First Tee – The Lowcountry. “As we head into the final weeks of the year, we’re calling on everyone to help us finish strong and fuel the future for even more young people across the Lowcountry.”

In 2025 so far, the organization has shattered participation records, reaching more than 14,000 young people across Beaufort and Jasper counties. More than 600 of those students participated in the Life Skills Experience program, with more than half receiving scholarships to make participation possible. Through these efforts, First Tee awarded 291 Life Skills Program Scholarships and expanded its reach into 24 partner schools.

The Girls Golf Program also continued to thrive, empowering more than 50 young women with confidence, leadership, and community through the program’s dual focus on the game of golf and the development of character.

“Girls Golf gave me a place where I feel seen, strong, and supported,” said participant Bebe King.

This year also brought important milestones in infrastructure and expansion with a new administrative office in Bluffton, creating greater access to youth on the mainland. Plus, in addition to its Gumtree Road Learning Center, which welcomed 7,000 guests this year, First Tee has broken ground on a new permanent golf facility in the Greater Beaufort area, set to open in 2026.

This organization has put up some serious numbers this year, but it’s the story of confidence, focus, and transformation behind those numbers that truly illustrates what sets First Tee apart.

“First Tee gave me the courage to try things I’d never done before,” said Jeep Patrick, now a Presbyterian College student and scholarship recipient. “I learned how to lead, how to stay patient, and how to stay focused when things don’t go my way.”

“We’re proud to say that no child is ever turned away due to cost. As we look ahead, the Finish Strong and Build Game Changers campaigns are working to raise vital funds by December 31 to build on our growing momentum. Each gift will help fund 300-plus Life Skills Program scholarships we estimate we will award in 2026,” Zuk said. “Behind every scholarship is a story of courage, growth, and possibility –and that story starts with a donor who said ‘yes.’”

To support the year-end appeal and help build the next generation of game changers, visit thefirstteelowcountry. org. 

GREAT LEADERSHIP STARTS WITH HUMILITY AND CIVILITY

Last month I was invited to speak to a local leadership class in my role as mayor. These engagements provide a chance to share some details about how our municipal government works, my leadership experiences (the good, the bad, and the ugly) – and if I’m doing it right, and leave folks with a little inspiration about their ability to lead, from wherever they are in life.

Did you know there are more than 57,000 books on Amazon with “leadership” somewhere in the title? To say that there are a few thoughts about what makes good, or even great, leadership is an understatement. As town council continues to tackle complex policy decisions from the dais in the coming months, I want to offer some insight into two of the most important leadership characteristics, in my opinion, that I believe should guide our approach.

To say it simply: Humility and civility matter. Great leaders don’t tear others down to build up something. Great leadership, the kind that sets the stage for effective and long-lasting decisions that do right for most people, that incorporates multiple viewpoints, and that demonstrates compassion for those whose shoes you haven’t walked in, is also self-aware.

Great leaders recognize that problems or challenges are often more intricate than any one person’s ability to solve. They balance time, knowledge, and the need for more of both before deciding what to do, especially given the pace and fluidity with which things can change. That’s not “analysis paralysis.” That is understanding policy decisions need to be driven by specific goals, evidence, research, feedback, and a willingness to change your mind once you’ve learned more.

Great leaders don’t just point out the problems respectfully, they show up with solutions. They recalibrate when they understand that unintended consequences changed the intended outcome. Great leaders never have all the answers, but they are willing to go to responsible ends to find them, customize them, and think critically

MAYOR

CYBERCRIMINALS ARE EVERYWHERE; STAY CYBER SAFE

As we rely more on technology to stay connected, manage our finances, and conduct daily business, cybercriminals are keeping pace. Their tactics have grown increasingly sophisticated – from “phishing” emails that mimic familiar organizations to “spoofed” messages that look like official town correspondence. Even Bluffton’s own name and logo have been used in recent scams designed to trick residents and businesses. Recently, the town’s Information Technology (IT) department detected and contained a phishing attack that used a fake “Town of Bluffton” email address to trick residents and businesses into entering access codes. Fortunately, our team responded quickly and prevented any damage to the town’s systems. While this attack was stopped, it underscores how important it is for everyone – residents, business owners, and community partners – to stay alert when it comes to digital communication. Scammers are getting better at what they do. They copy our logos, mimic our writing style, and even use legitimate-looking addresses to gain your trust. One quick click on a bad link can compromise more than your computer – it can expose personal data, financial information, and entire networks. As mayor, I want to emphasize one simple truth: Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. Just as we lock our doors and look both ways before crossing the street, we must also pause before clicking on a link or sharing information online. Here are some simple steps every Blufftonian can take:

• Verify before you click. If you receive an unexpected email from the town or any organization asking you to open an attachment, click a link, or provide personal information, stop. Pick up the phone and call the sender directly. Our

before presuming to know the best path forward. They learn. They teach. They are vulnerable and do their best with the information they have.

Great leaders put the needs of those they serve ahead of personal agendas, desires, and beliefs.

Hilton Head Island as we know it right now is the culmination of some great leadership choices, from stewardship of the land by indigenous cultures and the Gullah community, to Charles Fraser’s visionary planned development leadership – all of which continue to inform who we are as a town. And yes, some of the challenges we face today are the result of some not-so-great decisions over time. But Hilton Head Island belongs to us all – residents, businesses, and visitors – and I want you to know that your town council is proud of that.

As we move forward, it’s going to take more than strength, decisiveness, vision, and action for us as your leaders to do what’s in the best interest of our community as a whole; we must also lead from a place of civility and humility that doesn’t fuel a fire of negativity, finger-pointing, disinformation, and divisiveness. Those who lead with fire end up destroying the very thing they seek to improve, whereas great leaders build solutions and address challenges from a civil and humble foundation. 

Customer Service Center can always verify whether an email came from us; just call 843-706-4500.

• Check the sender’s address carefully. Even one extra letter or symbol in an email domain can be a clue that the message isn’t legitimate.

• Be wary of urgent or emotional language. Scammers often use phrases such as “immediate action required” to prompt panic and quick responses.

• Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication. This extra step helps keep accounts secure even if someone manages to steal your password.

• Keep your devices updated. Regular software updates patch vulnerabilities before bad actors can exploit them.

The Town of Bluffton will never send an email asking for personal information, access codes, or account confirmation links. Our official email domain is @townofbluffton.com. If you are ever in doubt, please verify with us before acting.

Phishing scams are not just a Bluffton problem, they are a national issue growing in complexity every year. According to the Federal Trade Commission, phishing remains one of the top causes of identity theft and data breaches nationwide. That’s why the town will continue to educate the community about these risks and provide resources to protect your digital safety.

As our community continues to grow and technology becomes more integrated into daily life, protecting ourselves online must become second nature. Bluffton’s small-town spirit depends on trust, and that trust extends to how we handle information and communication.

Let’s keep looking out for one another – both in our neighborhoods and in our inboxes. Together, we can make Bluffton not only a beautiful place to live but also a safe and secure one.

For more information on protecting yourself from phishing scams, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website at consumer.ftc.gov. 

Nov. 2025 Calendar

TUESDAYS

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Farmers & Makers Market

The Shops at Sea Pines Center

TUESDAYS

9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Hilton Head Farmers Market

Coastal Discovery Museum 70 Honey Horn Drive

WEDNESDAYS

Wick It Wednesday

Sea Love Candle Bar SeaLoveHiltonHead.com

SATURDAYS

Hilton Head Community Market

9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Shelter Cove Community Park Local artists, makers, farmers

BLACK FRIDAY AT COLIGNY

November 28

Jevon's Kid's Show

Santa Arrives by Helicopter & Santa Bar Crawl

FIRST THURSDAY

ARTISAN ALLEY 4-7 p.m. Shops at Sea Pines Center

1 Saturday

ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW Coligny Theatre, 7:30 p.m. sgstage.org

1-2

Saturday and Sunday

HHI CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

Port Royal Golf Club hhiconcours.com

2 Sunday

HILTON HEAD HALF, QUARTER MARATHON 8 a.m.

Sea Pines Beach Club

7-8

Friday and Saturday

HH OYSTER FESTIVAL Oyster Roast, Shelter Cove Community Park Main Event, Lowcountry Celebration Park islandreccenter.org

8 Saturday

DECK THE PALMS Tree Lighting Celebration 5-8 p.m. Tanger 1 Outlets

8 Saturday

ARTIST STUDIO TOUR 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Art League of Hilton Head artleaguehhi.org

8 Saturday

PALM TREES & PISTONS 9-11 a.m.

Nala’s Beach Bar & Grill 14 Folly Field Road Free Car Show

9 Sunday

LOWCOUNTRY CHILDREN’S BOOK FAIR

11 a.m.-3 p.m., Courtyard at Tanger 2

9 Sunday

FOUR-LEGGED FROLIC 5:30-9:30 p.m. Westin Resort hhhumane.org

10 Monday HARBOUR TOWN GOLF LINKS REOPENS! 11-15

Tuesday - Saturday ART BEYOND LIMITATIONS & EXPECTATIONS (ABLE) Full Spectrum Studio artists at Art League of Hilton Head 14 Shelter Cove Lane

13

14 & 28

LA PACHANGA

5-8 p.m.

Nala's Beach Bar & Grill

21- DEC. 6

Every Day

HH PREP'S FESTIVAL OF TREES Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa Palmetto Dunes

21-22

Friday and Saturday

Thursday MUTTS AND MARGS 4-6 p.m. Village at Wexford Benefits HH Humane Gustavo Rattia Photography

MARCO BICEGO TRUNK SHOW 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Forsythe Jewelers Shops at Sea Pines Center

HHI LANTERN PARADE

5:30 p.m. Step-off

South Forest Beach Music following at Celebration Park

OYSTER ROAST Nala's Beach Bar & Grill

3-7 p.m. with music by White Liquor

HH TURKEY TROT 5K

Skull Creek Boathouse islandreccenter.org

Thursday

BIG JIM’S THANKSGIVING TO GO Family Pack with sides PalmettoDunesThanksgiving.com Pick-up 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

BLACK FRIDAY AT COLIGNY Events, specials all day Santa arrives at 1 p.m.

22ND ANNUAL FISHING TOURNAMENT

10-11:30 a.m. Sea Pines Forest Preserve seapines.com/events

SANTA ARRIVES! Shelter Cove Harbour

12-2:30 p.m. Bring new toy or food for Deep Well

PAWS-ITIVELY THANKFUL ADOPTION EVENT

3-5 p.m.

Captain Woody’s HHI HH Humane

GREGG RUSSELL

THANKSGIVING CONCERT AND OFFICIAL TREE LIGHTING

7:30-9 p.m.

Liberty Oak, Harbour Town

SANTA ARRIVES! 2-4 p.m.

Village at Wexford (Near Island Child)

UPCOMING EVENTS!

DEC. 5

Friday

“CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS” 7 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church HHI HiltonHeadChoralSociety.org

DEC. 4-14

Thursday - Sunday

“CHRISTMAS BELLES” Hilarious Southern Comedy Sea Glass Stage Company sgstage.org

NOV. 15

Saturday

THE TOWN'S OFFICIAL HOLIDAY KICK-OFF FESTIVAL 12:00 - 3:00 p.m. Arts Center of Coastal Carolina 14 Shelter Cove Lane

JOIN US AS WE USHER IN THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH THIS FREE, FUN COMMUNITY FESTIVAL!

The Arts Center welcomes residents and visitors alike to the Town's Official Holiday Kick-Off Festival on Saturday, November 15 from 12 - 3 p.m.

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in style on an antique fire truck to visit with children throughout the festival, held on the Arts Center grounds.

The day is filled with holiday entertainment from local groups, arts and crafts for all ages, delicious treats from food trucks, a wonderful Art Market featuring the creations of local artisans (great for buying gifts and supporting local at the same time), and a performance from cast members of the Arts Center’s Frozen!

A Lowcountry holiday tradition that truly is fun for the whole family!

Free Admission for people (and pups) of all ages! Sponsored by the Town of Hilton Head Island.

Join the Hilton Head Choral Society at their “Celebrate the Holidays” concert at 7 p.m. Friday, December 5, at First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway on Hilton Head Island.

The community is invited for an enchanting evening that brings together cherished seasonal traditions and beloved contemporary holiday classics. The Hilton Head Choral Society voices will fill the air with warmth, joy, and the unmistakable magic of the season.

In celebration of our founding in 1975, the program will feature selections from Handel’s Messiah. Come and experience the unifying spirit of music during the most wonderful time of the year.

Tickets are on sale now at hiltonheadchoralsociety.org. For more information or for assistance placing a ticket order, call 843-341-3818 or email tickets@ hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.

After the success of the spring Shop Hop, local merchants and community members are once again joining forces to support Memory Matters through a festive Holiday Shop Hop this season.

The event will take place on Thursday, November 6, on Hilton Head Island, and Thursday, November 13, in Bluffton. Each participating boutique will donate 10% of sales from the day to Memory Matters, helping to sustain life-changing programs for families affected by dementia and cognitive challenges.

Following the tremendous response to the first Shop Hop earlier this year, the Holiday edition adds a seasonal sparkle. Shoppers can expect festive decor and holiday sips, while getting a head start on their holiday shopping and finding meaningful gifts that truly give back.

Participating shops include:

Hilton Head Island: The Back Door, Birdie James, Coastal Bliss, Collage, Currents, Evelyn & Arthur, Gifted, Hilton Head Golf Shoppe, Hilton Head Oils & Balsamics, Hilton Head Running Co., Island Child, J. Mclaughlin, John Bayley Clothier, Le Cookery, Needlepoint Junction, Pink Pineapple, Pyramids Hilton Head, Sea Love, Shop! Boutique, Spartina 449

Bluffton: Birdie James, Eggs ‘n’ tricities, The Haven Boutique, J. Mclaughlin, Maggie and Me, Monkee’s, Spartina 449

Proceeds from the event directly benefit Memory Matters, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals experiencing memory loss and supporting their caregivers through education, connection, and compassion.

“This event is all about local love – supporting our small businesses while lifting up a cause that touches so many Lowcountry families,” said Kathryn Mademann, event co-chair. “Every purchase helps keep vital programs available year-round. The enthusiasm from our community during the spring Shop Hop was incredible.”

Julie Martin, who co-chaired both events, said, “We saw firsthand how shopping local can make a real difference, and now we’re bringing that same spirit to the holidays. It’s heartwarming to see how our community continues to show up for Memory Matters. We invite everyone to grab a friend, shop the day away, and know that every gift purchased helps create moments of joy for others.”

In addition to shopping, attendees can learn more about Memory Matters’ programs, including caregiver support, respite services, and brain-health education, at select participating stores.

For more information, call 843-842-6688 or visit mymemorymatters.org.

Honoring 250 Years of the United States Marine Corps: A Beaufort County Tribute

This November 10, 2025, as the United States Marine Corps celebrates 250 years of service, we in Beaufort County can take pride in the legacy of the Corps and its deep roots in our community. Established in Tun Tavern, Philadelphia, in 1775, the Marine Corps has grown into one of the most respected military branches in the world.

On November 2, 1861, the first Marines arrived in the Parris Island area, sailing into Port Royal Sound, South Carolina, as part of detachments aboard ships in the Atlantic Blockading Squadron. Under the command of Navy Capt. Samuel F. Du Pont, the area was seized and became a vital base for the Union Navy throughout the Civil War. Today, Parris Island stands as one of two Marine Corps Recruit Depots –the other being MCRD San Diego, California – where new Marines begin their journey.

Parris Island was originally designated by an Act of Congress in 1882 to serve as a coaling dock and naval storehouse. To protect the government’s interests during construction, a small group of Marines was stationed there in 1891, establishing the first Marine post in Port Royal. Over the following years, the post evolved: In 1909, it became a Marine Officers’ School at the U.S. Naval Station, Port Royal, and by 1915, it was officially designated Marine Barracks, Port Royal, with the primary mission of training enlisted Marine recruits.

Since then, hundreds of thousands of men and women have passed through Parris Island, shaping the course of American history.

Consider how many Marine recruits from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, and more recently, conflicts in the Middle East, began their service in our small community. These individuals went on to perform some of the most challenging duties imaginable – protecting America and securing our freedoms.

Today, Parris Island graduates nearly 21,000 new Marines annually, employs more than 3,000 people, and contributes approximately $570 million to the Beaufort County economy each year.

Since its founding, the United States Marine Corps has trained between 7 million and 8 million Marines. The fact that so many of them began their journey on this small Lowcountry sea island and went on to leave a lasting impact on America – and the world – is truly extraordinary.

While all branches of the military are honored for their service, this month we proudly celebrate 250 years of the United States Marine Corps.

(The author is a proud Marine mom.)