Fig Magazine Charleston | Spring 2026

Four brothers, one shared vision

THE DEALERSHIP is guided by family values, hard work, and a commitment to excellence. Its culture shapes every customer experience and drives everything it does. Whether customers visit the sales team or the service department, they can expect to leave feeling like part of the family.

Lauryn Qualls enjoys the sunset on Isle of Palms. Dress and jewelry by Holst + Lee, Jeep provided by Mount Pleasant Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, hair and makeup by Rosa Martinez, photography by Anne Caufmann

IN THIS ISSUE

We’re bringing you incredible local businesses, organizations, and people that are woven into the fabric of our city. Fig Magazine is your love local guide to discovering and celebrating all Charleston has to offer.

Visit King Street

There’s so much to see on King Street—find a walking map on page 53 to help you navigate it. 42, 43, 44, 45, 53

She Owns It

Meet the female entrepreneurs of Charleston who are redefining our cit y. 17-31

Raise the Curtain on Youth Theatre

Providing children’s theatre to our younger generation. 12, 13, 34

Reimagine Your Space

Visit these builders, designers, and artists as you consider your next move. 15, 32, 33, 36, 37, 40, 41

Events for Everyone

Whether you’re out in a park, at a historical site, or supporting a local nonprofit, get out and about this spring in Charleston. 35, 50, 51, 54, 55, 58-61

Fresh Face

Meet Charleston creative Nadia Bakalez. 11

And of course, great shopping, dining, arts, events, and community —as always. Keep Reading F

PUBLISHER

Atomic Focus Entertainment

DIRECTOR

Jennifer Wiggin

DESIGNERS

Jamie Volansky

Brooke Porcelli

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Colleen Kassner

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Anne Caufmann

Andrew Cebulka

Katrina Crawford

Keller James

WRITERS

Leah Moore

Allyson Rice

Tom Wiggin

SOCIAL MEDIA

Sarah Corry

Alyssa Franco, Digital Touch

SPECIAL THANKS

Lauryn Qualls

Holst + Lee

Matt Carney

Fig Lancaster Team

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SPRING! A time of renewal and restoration. The gateway to the summer.

I have to confess that spring in Charleston is my favorite time of year. The weather is warm but not too warm. The beach and parks beckon once again. Bulky outerwear is replaced by lighter fabrics. Residents and tourists alike enjoy a stroll on the Peninsula. Boats of all sizes cruise on local waterways. And, certainly, the entire area comes alive.

Stretching from Johns Island to Folly Beach, Old Village to Park Circle, and Riverfront Park to Summerville, Charleston enthusiasts enjoy all the things that make this place the incredible city we all love.

This issue—our second edition of Fig Magazine Charleston—embodies our mission to celebrate the local businesses, people, and events that make Charleston so special. From eclectic retail

and specialized services to unique Spoleto events and local arts and culture venues to outdoor gatherings at down home establishments and al fresco dining at world class restaurants, we are thrilled to showcase so many of these wonderful points of interest.

We are also excited about this issue’s special section, “She Owns It,” which highlights womenowned businesses that are making their mark on the Charleston scene. As someone who has worked hard to forge a path in my own career, I’m personally honored to celebrate these women and the inspiring businesses they run here— meet them starting on page 17.

As you page through The Out & About Issue, we hope you feel a sense of renewed commitment to supporting local business and sharing your love of Charleston.

With gratitude, Jennifer Wiggin & the Fig Magazine team

Excellence elevated

Lou Wertz, Founding Partner & Broker

MARY LOU WERTZ, Founding Partner and Broker of the female-owned and operated Maison Real Estate, brings a rare combination of insight, discretion, and experience to serve even the most discerning clients who are buying or selling in the Lowcountry. Consistently ranked among the top 1% of local producers, she is tireless in ensuring her clients receive an exceptional, seamless experience.

Her dedication is rooted in a deep love of the region— its natural beauty, rich history, and enduring cultural significance. A former resident of New York City, Connecticut, and London, Mary Lou and her husband now divide their time between downtown Charleston and Kiawah Island, embracing the very lifestyle she so passionately represents.

A steadfast community leader, Mary Lou was a founder of Good Friends of the Lowcountry and remains deeply involved in local nonprofits and cultural institutions, including The Preservation Society, The Gaillard Center, The Gibbes Museum of Art, and the Charleston Library Society. Her commitment to civic engagement reflects her belief that real estate is not simply about property —it is about place, connection, and legacy.

Navigating Charleston’s dynamic real estate market requires experience, nuanced market knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to excellence— qualities that distinguish Mary Lou and her team. Her membership in Métier Maison—an exclusive global community of discerning and top-performing real estate professionals—allows her to have far reaching connections and offer white-glove concierge services. Whether buying or selling, Mary Lou Wertz is here to guide you home.

Charmingly yours

THE NAME HOLST + LEE might as well be synonymous with joy. Tucked into Charleston’s historic downtown district, this vibrant jewelry boutique is brimming with delight and a touch of whimsy at every turn. From colorful beaded necklaces and playful earrings—to bold, chunky color-block bracelets and customizable pieces, every design feels like a celebration. Holst + Lee doesn’t just create jewelry; they create wearable happiness.

A must-see, in-person highlight is the boutique’s abundant charm bar, a sparkling spread of tiny treasures representing all the things that make life sweet. Ladybugs and starfish, bananas, and slices of pizza—it’s no exaggeration to say there’s something for everyone. Choose a bracelet or necklace, then layer it up with charms that tell your story. The possibilities are endless, and half the fun is dreaming up what will make you smile every time you clasp it on.

A perfect portion of hospitality

NESTLED IN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT on the Peninsula, Broad Street Cafe at The Conroy was founded around a a love of food, fun, and community—with a deep and unwavering adoration of Charleston. You’ll be tempted by their sweet treats, array of rich coffee drinks, and delicious made-to-order breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Supporting local is important to them, so they partner with other Charleston businesses for many of their ingredients. This cafe is a cozy slice of Southern hospitality where neighbors connect and visitors are made to feel like locals.

Fresh Faces: NBD Creatives

ENTREPRENEURS, TAKE NOTE! There’s a new graphic designer in town with a fresh take on brand identities and whose results are impossible to ignore.

“My mission is to provide small businesses with clear, strategic brand systems they can confidently grow into over time,” said Nadia Bakalez, founder and designer of No Big Deal Creatives, which opened in August of 2025. “Through simple, intentional design, I help clients build a strong foundation they can carry forward with ease.”

She’s been working as a freelance graphic designer since graduating college, where she received an Award of Excellence through the Printing Industry of the Carolinas in partnership with Appalachian State University’s Graphic Communications Management program. “That recognition became a defining moment for me, affirming my creative path,” she said.

Nadia even views designs as musical. “I understand how overwhelming branding can feel at the start, so I wanted to create a space where logos and brand identities feel intuitive, timeless, and reflective of each brand’s natural rhythm,” she explained. “When a brand is aligned, the process feels lighter.”

“I don’t approach branding as a one-off visual moment,” she added. “Instead, I shape a cohesive branding designed to support growth well beyond launch, allowing my clients to grow with ease rather than constantly reinventing themselves.”

Learn more about Nadia and her creative designs by visiting nbdcreatives.com

RAISING THE CURTAIN on the future

THEATER IN THE LOWCOUNTRY is growing at Charleston Stage, home to a renowned theater education program inspiring children of all ages. With classes taught by professional actors and a brand-new 10,000-square-foot West Ashley facility, including “The Pearl,” a 150-seat performance space, the future is big, bright, and dramatic.

Your Fractional Team That Feels In-House

CURATED STUDIOS co-founders Karissa Tunis and Abigail Ray bring marketing strategy, branding, and media production together into one cohesive ecosystem— so everything works in sync, not in silos. Through their fractional support, clients gain an experienced team to guide the vision, create the assets, and keep momentum moving forward, freeing them up to focus on what they do best: running their business.

Gary Graham, Owner

HONESTY EXCELLENCE &

FOR NEARLY TWO DECADES, locally owned and operated Charleston Dock & Repair has built and restored the docks that define quintessential Lowcountry living. From brand-new builds to the toughest repairs, they deliver craftsmanship you can trust—keeping your dock safe, strong, and beautiful.

Marketing with a passion

AT THE HEART OF THE DIGITAL TOUCH

is founder Alyssa Franco, a creative, coffee-fueled visionary who believes your brand should feel as good as it looks. What started as a passion for design and storytelling quickly turned into a boutique agency built on real relationships and real results. Alyssa doesn’t believe in cookie-cutter marketing; she partners closely with each client, bringing strategy, personality, and polish to every website, brand board, and social feed. Think thoughtful details, elevated visuals, and a whole lot of heart. Around here, it’s not just about growing your business, it’s about building something you’re genuinely proud to share.

Alyssa Franco, Founder

OWNS IT She

DID YOU KNOW that Charleston has a higher percentage of women-owned businesses than the national average? That means female entrepreneurs are a key driver of Charleston’s local economy.

Research consistently shows that women-owned businesses are likely to hire locally, collaborate with other small local businesses, and are embedded in community networks. They often offer flexible employment structures t0 support employees and their lives.

Charleston features women-owned businesses across the broad spectrum of commerce, including retail like Julep and Grove Road Boutique; personal care services like FACE FOUNDRIÉ and Pitt Street Pharmacy; health and wellness services like Andrea Meier Holistic Therapy; creative ventures and professional consultants like Curated Studios; and community-focused businesses like Smart Marketing Ad Agency. That’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Organizations in town offer valuable resources for aspiring female entrepreneurs including the Charleston chapter of The Dames, a business accelerator for women, and Lowcountry Local First.

Join us in our support of women-owned businesses in Charleston—another powerful way to support our local economy and the city we all love.

THE DAMES is the world’s only business incubator for six-, seven-, and eight-figure women —helping members grow and scale personally and professionally without forsaking themselves.

ELLEN FRAZIER, founder of Frazier Lending Group, leads this women-owned and operated mortgage brokerage with a clear mission: redefining what’s possible in lending. With over two decades of experience, the firm offers creative, strategic lending solutions, blending expertise, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership. From pre-qualification to closing, Ellen and her team are proud to serve. frazierlendinggroup.com

AS AN AWARD-WINNING brand strategist, designer, bestselling author, podcast host, and founder of On Brand Designs (whew!), Kim Russo breathes purpose-driven creativity and execution. Transforming your entrepreneurial visions into bold, unmistakable brand experiences, she works with local business owners to elevate their projects through smart branding, inspiring packaging, and strategic web design. onbranddesigns.com

ANGELA HUMPHRIES is the founder of Sew Fabulous LLC, an award-winning bridal and couture alterations studio serving Charleston’s most discerning clients. A multiyear Journal Scene Best Alterations Winner (2023–2025) and Charleston Community Votes Platinum Winner, Sew Fabulous is known for meticulous craftsmanship and white-glove service. Through her Department of Labor-recognized apprenticeship program, Angela is preserving the art of couture sewing while cultivating the next generation of skilled artisans.

sewfabuloussummerville.com

LOWCOUNTRY NEWCOMER

Roberta Moore, LMFT, MBA, MST, CPA, brings 25 years of business acumen and thoughtful compassion to Conscious Choices, where she empowers local leaders to find strength through gentleness and heal burnout in a space that is steady, grounded, and deeply trusted. At Conscious Choices, therapy isn’t for the broken. It’s for the brave. consciouschoices.com

THERE’S A SECRET TO maximizing your LinkedIn connections, and Natasha Walstra, owner of NearPoint Strategies and creator of the REALationship Growth Method™, wants to share it. The self-proclaimed introvert who built a six-figure business in a single year empowers you to use LinkedIn to forge authentic connections to grow your business with true intention. nearpointstrategies.com

PAT EARDLEY is a human resources strategist, entrepreneur, and founder of Shift HR, a womanowned consultancy celebrating 17 years of helping small businesses grow through strong leadership and intentional people strategy. Passionate about empowering business owners— especially women leaders—Pat is known for her practical guidance, decisive leadership, and people-first approach to workplace culture. shifthr.com

Brandi Sherbert, Owner & Pharmacist

GENERATIONS OF Community Care

THERE ARE NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTS, and then there are institutions. Since 1937, Pitt Street Pharmacy in the heart of Mount Pleasant’s Old Village has helped generations find health, wellness, and an after-school treat at their historic soda counter. They offer compounding services for humans and animals alike, highquality supplements, and even a sweet little sundry shop featuring dozens of local finds. Stop by to see why this institution thrives.

WHERE SELF-CARE IS the Vibe

WE ALL HAVE FACES —but do we really know how best to care for them? In a world where online ads are constantly pushing serums, lotions, firming creams, and peptides, FACE FOUNDRIÉ cuts through the noise by making skincare accessible, educational, approachable—and even affordable. With a focus on all things face, from facials to lashes and brows, FACE FOUNDRIÉ offers results-driven treatments like the popular Firm AF Facial, all delivered in a relaxing environment where self-care is truly the vibe

WHERE COASTAL STYLE MEETS

Everyday Elegance

WHEN TWO LIFELONG

FASHION LOVERS

with deep industry experience and sharp business instincts come together, something special is bound to happen. At Grove Road Boutique in beautiful Mount Pleasant, coastal-casual style is thoughtfully curated for everyday life in the Lowcountry.

Owners Laureen Lee Dunn-Rapp, whose fashion career began at the tender age of 12, and Lisanne Keane, for whom style runs in the family, bring their shared passion to a space where elegance meets whimsy. The result is a boutique filled with effortless, polished pieces and plenty of options for even the most discerning shoppers.

HEALING, Reimagined

AT ANDREA MEIER, LLC HOLISTIC WELLNESS COLLECTIVE, no one is broken. Healing isn’t about “fixing”. Instead, the team creates space to reflect, regulate, integrate, and align—empowering each client to move beyond day-to-day coping. By viewing mental health through a holistic mind-bodyspirit lens, the Collective fosters space for meaningful, lasting transformation.

The Collective specializes in anxiety, trauma recovery, relationships, life transitions, and personal growth. In their recently expanded office, you’ll find a soothing, nature-inspired environment where mind and body can reconnect and recalibrate. There, the team partners with clients using evidence-based approaches such as Internal Family Systems (IFS/Parts work), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Somatic Therapies Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), integrative addiction counseling, and more.

At Andrea Meier LLC, healing isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about coming home to yourself.

Scan the QR code to learn more.

ANDREA MEIER, M.S., LPC, LAC is the founder of a growing Holistic Wellness Collective serving the Charleston community, with specialized, heart-centered expertise. Andrea has two decades of specialized experience in women’s healing, trauma, relationships, and addition recovery. Meet the rest of the Collective below.

Lauren Hamrick, LPC-A

Offers: Individual and couples therapy

Distinctive Specialization: Infertility, conception, perinatal and postpartum, highly sensitive/high achieving individuals, women’s issues

Distinctive Approach: Integrative therapist

Lisa Connelly, LMFT

Offers: Women’s individual therapy

Distinctive Specialization: Sexual abuse/trauma, women’s issues, complex trauma

Distinctive Approach: Spirituality, divine feminine, certified nutrition coach

Amanda Spivey, LPC-A

Offers: Individual, couples, and family therapy

Distinctive Specialization: Athletes/sports performance, college students, divorce, high achieving individuals

Distinctive Approach: Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

FASHION IS LIKE A COCKTAIL:

Mix it up!

WHEN YOU’RE READY for a summer wardrobe refresh, look no further than Julep, a charming boutique in Charleston’s historic downtown shopping district. Founded by a dynamic mother-daughter duo, Julep features thoughtfully curated collections, with pieces sure to elevate and energize your summer style.

Tonya Childs, Founder & Operational Chief Executive Officer

Your Business, Amplified

TONYA CHILDS, founder and operational chief executive officer of Smart Marketing Advertising Agency, believes you’re the expert when it comes to your business. That doesn’t always mean, however, that you know the best way to reach your clients. That’s where Tonya and her team come in to develop strategic marketing plans that deliver standout results.

Since its launch in 2010 as a personal, grassroots effort, Smart Marketing has leveraged Tonya’s nearly 30 years of experience in advertising and marketing to build out a team of 12 humans and one Director of Mental Health, Fripp the Goldendoodle. The results speak for themselves. This full-service marketing and advertising agency specializes in Websites, SEO, Hosting, Google Ads, Social & Digital, Graphic Design, and Print. Today, the team builds brands across the country, treating every client as a true partner and every campaign as an opportunity to redefine excellence.

Childs, Director of Mental Health

Refined Painting for Exceptional Spaces

CHAD GIBSON, owner of SKI Painting Company, believes true excellence lies in the details. As one of the top five craftsmen in the Charleston area, SKI Painting has spent more than 30 years setting the standard for high-end residential finishes. Trusted by leading architects and designers, Chad’s team makes meticulous quality and your total satisfaction their primary mission.

Lights Up for Little Stars: WONDERSTAGE COMES TO FAME

There’s a new children’s theater program in town! Jen Blanton and the team at FAME Performing Arts present WonderStage, a new children’s theater initiative featuring a talented team of professional performers and creatives. Their productions, specially crafted for young audiences, bring imagination and storytelling to center stage while expanding FAME’s mission to foster an inclusive space empowering students to cultivate confidence and pride in their uniqueness. For schedule, tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit wonderstage.org.

Free family fun in the parks

MUSIC IN THE PARKS

Enjoy local Charleston musicians like Rosy Bones, food trucks, and free popsicles from King of Pops made possible by Renewal by Anderson, United Community Bank, and Vincent and Bullwinkel Orthodontics. There’s fun for the whole family at the spring music series.

April 9: Magnolia Park & Community Garden

May 14: Moultrie Park

5:30 PM –7:30 PM

NEIGHBOR NIGHTS

This amazing evening volunteer opportunity invites you to get your hands dirty and connect with your community, while enjoying light bites and refreshments. Bring the family and join them in Conservancy parks throughout the Garden District this spring!

April 15: Tiedemann Park & Nature Center

May 20: Wragg Square

5:00 PM –7:00 PM

Better Living Starts BENEATH THE FLOOR

LET’S BE HONEST —your crawlspace probably isn’t hosting movie night anytime soon. But after Lowcountry Crawlspaces gets done with it, you might want to show it off. From encapsulations to repairs, they turn “don’t go down there” into clean, dry, and protected—strengthening your home from the ground up.

Cook. Create. Collaborate .

SALTHOUSE COMMISSARY KITCHEN

is a collaborative creative space made up of like-minded food and beverage professionals who are passionate about their craft. Launched by longtime local favorite Salthouse Catering, the kitchen offers flexible rental space for food preparation, production, food truck parking, and more — all within a convenient 13,000-square-foot facility just off Folly Road on James Island.

The newly renovated kitchen features professional-grade cooking equipment and accommodates both annual and short-term rentals. Chefs and entrepreneurs alike are invited to revel in the energy and support that come from a shared space.

“Salthouse Catering started over 12 years ago with commissary tenants in our kitchen,” said Tanya Gurrieri of Salthouse Catering and Commissary. “The creative collaboration has proven to be a winning formula for both us and the small business owners we’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years.”

Join them in the kitchen and watch your business grow !

Marshall Kirkman, Owner

WHERE DREAMS Take Root

THIS BUSINESS HAS DEEP ROOTS. With a steadfast commitment to precision, creativity, and craftsmanship, Charleston Outdoor Design has earned its reputation as one of the Lowcountry’s most trusted landscape artisans.

Whether you’re building from the ground up, rebuilding after a storm (because hurricane season in South Carolina is no small thing), or simply ready to elevate your outdoor space, Charleston Outdoor Design brings vision and expertise to every project. From inspired landscape design to meticulous installation, their team handles every detail with care. The result? Outdoor spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful, designed to thrive in the unique Lowcountry climate.

When it comes to transforming your backyard into a personal retreat, Charleston Outdoor Design is your true one-stop shop.

Amy Barrett, Executive Director

Behind the Scenes on King Street

LOCALS AND VISITORS ALIKE flock to King Street’s iconic shopping district every day. With more than 400 local and national businesses lining the corridor from Line Street to Broad Street, it’s one of the most vibrant Holy City attractions. But how does it stay so clean, safe, and welcoming?

The King Street Business Improvement District (BID) and its King Street Ambassadors are a big part of the answer. Seven days a week, ambassadors are out and about addressing cleaning and hospitality needs, while the King Street BID team leads community initiatives including street cleaning, landscaping, public art, and more, all with the goal of fostering a clean, equitable, and prosperous district.

They’ve even created a Self-Guided King Street Walking Tour and Map, where you can learn about:

• The Garden Theater—now Urban Outfitters—once home to vaudeville and “photoplay” performances

• Shepard Fairey’s stunning 2014 mural

• The College of Charleston Cistern, framed by live oaks and Southern charm

Charleston is a special place for both residents and visitors. Stop and say hello to a King Street BID Ambassador on your next trip downtown!

The Art of the Retail Experience

HAVE YOU EVER walked into a store and thought: Wow, this place is stunning—I need everything in here. If so, it wasn’t an accident. Behind that effortless sense of beauty and flow is thoughtful strategy, and a Charlestonbased creative team helping small business owners turn vision into reality.

Inskip Creative is a multi-disciplinary firm specializing in the visual side of retail. From store layout and product placement to design and merchandising strategy, the team brings more than 30 years of combined retail experience in New York City, Toronto, and across the Southeast. That depth of knowledge allows them to blend aesthetics with analytics, pairing strong design principles with a nuanced understanding of consumer behavior.

Their work can be seen throughout the Lowcountry in beloved shops such as M. Dumas & Sons, Ladybird Books, Berlin’s, Minnow, and The Tiny Tassel, among many others. It’s what happens when smart creatives merge design and business acumen, creating spaces that not only look beautiful, but feel intuitive, inviting, and just a little bit irresistible.

A

Family Business, Set in

MITCH EMBLER OF EMBLER’S JEWELERS has been immersed in the jewelry business since the 1980s. In 2010, he and his family opened their Mount Pleasant store, where they offer everything from custom design and stone sourcing to cleaning and more. Mitch personally travels to Antwerp, Belgium, the diamond capital of the world, to source exceptional stones, crafting one-of-a-kind pieces that will surely become treasured family heirlooms. Whether you’re ready to pop the question or just want a little bit of sparkle, when you shop at Embler’s, you know a trusted team is ready to guide you every step of the way.

YARD PARTY SEASON Starts Here

SPRING IS IN THE AIR and on tap at Holy City Brewing. With the turn of the season comes the perfect excuse to soak in the brewery and restaurant’s spectacular views of Noisette Creek and its sprawling outdoor spaces.

And this spring, there’s even more to celebrate with the launch of their newest offering: Yard Party, a refreshingly bright cocktail available in Pineapple Lemonade and Citrus Crush. Both flavors are made for long, sunny afternoons spent watching dolphins splash and boats sail by as you while away the hours with friends and family.

Grab a drink, order a snack, and we’ll see you there.

ART IS THE Reason

THIS SPRING, join the Gibbes Museum of Art for ART CHARLESTON, an annual celebration of the museum’s guiding principle: Art is the Reason . For five days in April, enjoy signature events, workshops, lectures, and tours highlighting the ways art shapes our daily lives, influencing our shared experiences, perspectives, and conversations.

Featured events include the Art of Design, presented by the Gibbes Women’s Council, with Leontine Linens Founder and CEO Jane Scott Hodges; a Street Party spotlighting local chefs, cocktails, and entertainment under the stars; the Art and Blues concert in the Lenhardt Garden; and Revolutionary Conversations, presented in partnership with the Gaillard Performing Arts Center and the International African American Museum. Visit the website for tickets. Events are sure to sell out quickly.

Show your love for local businesses

WHEN YOU PICK UP a copy of Fig Magazine, you play a part in our mission to shine a light on the inspiring small businesses and entrepreneurs of Charleston—and we can’t thank you enough!

If you, your organization, or corporation would like to do more to help us spread the love-local message, consider becoming a Community Partner. Community Partners sponsor pages in Fig Magazine for Charleston businesses or nonprofits.

When you become a Community Partner of Fig Magazine, you become one of the faces of our mission to help local businesses—and we collaborate on how we can send love back to you through the pages of Fig and on our digital channels.

If you love Fig Magazine, we know you’re rooting for Charleston and its local business community. Reach out to me to discover how you can become a Community Partner and make that advocacy count.

Love local!

Jenn Wiggin, Director of Fig Magazine in Charleston

WALK THE King of all streets

THIS SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOUR of King Street, brought to you by our friends at the King Street Business Improvement District (BID). We picked five of the many spots on the self-guided walking tour of King Street. Looking for more interesting stops along King Street? Visit our friends at the King Street BID to access the full self-guided walking tour map.

327 King Street — College of Charleston: The College of Charleston is deeply integrated into the historic fabric of downtown Charleston. Stop at “The College of Charleston” at King and George Street, look to the west and get a peek of the campus. It is worth venturing down the block to George and St. Philip Street to take in the Cistern— the oak and Spanish mosscovered courtyard that is the heart and soul of the campus.

294

King Street — M. Dumas & Sons:

Founded in 1917, M. Dumas & Sons has evolved into an iconic men’s specialty retailer in historic downtown Charleston and is one of the longest, continuously operating stores in downtown. The store initially functioned as a military uniform outfitter and was the sole provider of uniforms for naval officers stationed in the seaside town.

227 King Street — The Riviera Theater: The Art Deco, Egyptian style Riviera Theater was constructed in 1939 by Albert Sottile. It served the Charleston community as a motion picture theater until 1978. It is currently owned and operated by Beemok Hospitality Collection (BHC), the same owner as The Charleston Place Hotel. In 2026, BHC plans to start showing movies there regularly.

164 King Street — Charleston Library Society:

The Charleston Library Society is thought to be the third library established in the United States. It was organized in 1748 by a group of young men who wished to keep up with the scientific and philosophical issues of the day, and hoped to “save their descendants from sinking into savagery.” To promote education, it began giving funds for the establishment of a college in the 1770s, hence the foundation of the College of Charleston. The current Beaux Arts building was constructed in 1914 by Philadelphia architects McGoodwin and Hawley.

146 King Street —

Quaker Cemetery Marker: On this site stood two successive meeting houses and the burial ground of the Society of Friends or Quakers. The original meeting house, constructed circa 1696, was destroyed to prevent the spread of fire in 1838. It was replaced in 1856 with a brick building which burned in the fire of 1861. Charleston County purchased the property in the mid 1960s and relocated the burial remains to 2 Courthouse Square. This surviving section of Gothic style cast Iron fence was constructed circa 1858.

Awaken your taste buds

ONE OF THE LARGEST FUNDRAISERS

of the year, the 18th annual Chef’s Potluck hosted by Lowcountry Local First is a joyful celebration of Charleston’s vibrant culinary scene and the people behind it. For one unforgettable evening, the marsh-side Porter Room at Holy City Brewing comes alive as more than 20 of the city’s most talented chefs partner with local farmers, fishermen, and ranchers to showcase the freshest ingredients the Lowcountry has to offer.

Guests are invited to stroll, sip, and sample their way through an indulgent tasting experience. From Southern comfort food and fresh oysters to globally inspired flavors, every bite tells a story of place, seasonality, and deep-rooted connections between chefs and local producers.

This event, co-presented by Indigo Road Hospitality Group and David Thompson Studio, is a true community gathering filled with great food, local libations, lively conversation, and a chance to support the local businesses that shape Charleston’s culinary identity. Attendees can also try their luck with incredible raffle packages available exclusively at the event.

Kids 12 and under enter for free!

TH

May 17, 2026 | 4 pm –7 pm

18 TH Annual Chef’s Potluck May 17, 2026 | 4 pm –7 pm The Porter Room, Holy City Brewing

THE KEEPERS OF MORRIS ISLAND

IN 2026, the Morris Island Lighthouse celebrates its 150th anniversary. This guardian of the sea has stood watch over Folly Beach, the Lowcountry’s most eclectic beach community, since 1876, illuminating the night sky and guiding sailors home.

But nothing endures 150 years without wear and tear, especially along the salty Southern coast. From earthquakes to hurricanes, the lighthouse has weathered it all, and it desperately needed some love.

Enter Save the Light, Inc. Since its founding in 1999, the organization’s mission has been clear: preserve and protect this historic state landmark. Thanks to its dedication to restoration and preservation, the Morris Island Lighthouse will continue to shine over Folly Beach for generations to come.

Visit Save the Light’s website at savethelight.org to support the effort.

It’s Game Time, CHARLESTON

THERE’S NO BETTER PLACE to spend a day or night than at The Joe, where every game delivers the perfect mix of baseball, family fun, and that unmistakable Charleston charm. Whether you’re cheering from the stands, enjoying ballpark food favorites, or watching the kids run wild in the outfield play zone, a RiverDogs game is the kind of memorymaking experience everyone can enjoy.

From themed nights and fireworks shows to between inning entertainment that keeps the whole stadium laughing, every game offers something special. Bring the family, bring your friends, or make it a date night. Just don’t miss your chance to be part of the most fun in Minor League Baseball.

Secure your seats now and join them all season long at The Joe.

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WHERE FAMILIES Find Their Advocate

CHARLESTON LEGAL ACCESS is South Carolina’s first and only nonprofit law firm offering fees based on income level. When Tyler lost his fiancée Ermelinda during childbirth, his world changed in an instant. Suddenly, a single father to both their newborn daughter and their seven-year-old son they had together prior, Tyler faced not only profound grief, but also an unexpected legal barrier. Because Ermelinda passed before their baby girl could be named on a birth certificate, their daughter had no legal identity, no birth certificate, no Social Security number, and no access to healthcare coverage. After months of reaching out to law firms that either couldn’t take his case or charged more than he could afford, he finally found hope. CLA took immediate action, providing full legal representation to file for a determination of paternity and to secure the birth certificate that his daughter urgently needed. Thanks to CLA, Tyler’s daughter now has the identity, rights, and protections that will allow her father to take care of all her needs.

43% OF SOUTH CAROLINA RESIDENTS FALL BETWEEN 125%-400% OF THE FEDERAL POVERTY LINE. *

This is known as the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households—those earning above the federal poverty level but below the cost of basic needs— combined with households in poverty make up the total ALICE Threshold.

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* Source: tuw.org/study-revealshouseholds-struggle

CHARLESTON LEGAL ACCESS ’ 10TH ANNIVERSARY:

Celebrating a Decade of Rooting Our Community in Justice

JOIN CHARLESTON LEGAL ACCESS (CLA) as they celebrate a Decade of Rooting Our Community in Justice and the incredible community that has made this work possible. Since 2016, CLA has been helping neighbors navigate complex legal systems, removing barriers to stability, and rooting our community more deeply in justice, and they’re just getting started.

Come celebrate on Thursday, May 7 from 5 pm –8 pm at The Waverly, a space that beautifully blends classic Southern charm with modern elegance. Don’t miss the opportunity to spend the evening mingling with fellow community members who are passionate about justice in our community as they celebrate the past 10 years and look forward to the next decade and beyond!

Reserve your tickets now to spend the night mingling with fellow legal professionals in this new modern space.

Want to make an impact and sponsor this popular event to build brand awareness and give back? Connect with Rachael Hochberg, Director of Development, by emailing rachael@charlestonlegalaccess.org.

Purchase a ticket or sponsorship today!

Charleston Legal Access 10 TH Anniversary Celebration

May 7, 2026 | 5 pm –8 pm

The Waverly

The Fig Magazine Charleston Team

THE TEAM AT FIG MAGAZINE absolutely loves Charleston. We trust you can see and feel that love as you look through our issues. In this spring issue, we are proud to highlight several women-owned businesses. It’s been a joy in working with each of these amazing women!

We are committed to supporting local businesses with an elevated magazine that encourages people to shop, dine, and play locally.

Want to join the next issue of Fig Magazine? Reach out to jenn@figmagazinecharleston.com

ENDURING Hospitality

STEP INTO THE LOBBY of the Dock Street Theatre, America’s first purpose-built theatre, and you’ll meet its heart: devoted volunteers like Becky McFerran who welcomes guests as an usher and concierge. Visit this historic space to admire the newly refinished hardwood floors, beautifully restored to their original splendor.