Fig Magazine Charleston | Summer 2026

Timeless Style

THIS JUNE, Hamilton brings its legacy on the road to Charleston with a special showcase celebrating 250 years of American history and craftsmanship. Headlining the experience is the Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical America 250 Special Edition, a commemorative timepiece inspired by Hamilton’s military heritage and enduring spirit of precision.

Danielle Cather Cohen in front of a new painting.

Photo by Anne Cauffman

IN THIS ISSUE

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

Savor the Moment

Charleston is known for its culinary scene. Check out these featured businesses in our Food and Beverage section, which includes a great listing of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and specialty shops along King Street. 20-37

Fresh Faces

We love entrepreneurs! Learn more about these exciting new businesses. 9, 28, 46, 50

Giving Back

Learn more about the nonprofit organizations that have a love of gardens, the arts, and our furry friends. 12-13, 51-53, 58-61

Take Care

Visit these businesses for a healthy mind and body. 6-7, 8, 14, 16, 41, 48-49

The Art of the Boutique

Palmetto Row Collectives on King Street has something for everyone. 39-43

Enjoy Your Stay

Explore these short- and longterm options for a relaxing stay in Charleston. 9, 10, 63

Take Care of Your Home

Here is some extra help to keep your home beautiful. 11, 17, 44-45

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

PUBLISHER

Atomic Focus Entertainment

DIRECTOR

Jennifer Wiggin

Jenn@figmagazinecharleston.com

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Colleen Kassner

Colleen@figmagazinecharleston.com

DESIGNERS

Jamie Volansky

Brooke Porcelli

BRAND AMBASSADOR

Anne Caufmann

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Anne Caufmann

Keller James

WRITERS

Leah Moore

Tom Wiggin

SOCIAL MEDIA

Sarah Corry

Alyssa Franco, Digital Touch

SPECIAL THANKS

Danielle Cather Cohen

Annie Bailey

Hamilton Watch

Chris Sosnowski, Bugby Farms

M. Dumas & Sons

Credits

STAY CONNECTED

Follow Fig Magazine Charleston on Facebook and Instagram for daily coverage of loving local in Charleston.

SUBSCRIBE

Subscribe to receive Fig Magazine at your home at figmagazinecharleston.com. Gift subscriptions available.

PAPER MATTERS

Fig Magazine is printed on Lynx ® Opaque Ultra, which is made by Domtar using responsiblysourced wood fiber. Lynx ® is proudly manufactured in North America at paper mills dedicated to preserving the health of the land.

ADVERTISE IN FIG

Own a business and want to share your story? Contact Jenn@figmagazinecharleston.com.

PLANT FIG IN YOUR CITY

Interested in starting Fig Magazine in your community? Find out more at figmagazine.com and scan this QR code for the Fig Magazine story.

AH, SUMMER! School’s out, vacations are imminent, music abounds, and we all have a chance to revel in all the joys the season brings.

As Fig Magazine shapes editorial traditions that reflect the fabric of our iconic city, we are committed in this, and every summer issue, to celebrating our amazing culinary and craft beverage scenes.

Our food and beverage section starting on page 20 highlights some of our favorite cafes and casual dining spots, as well as local coffee, wine, and tequila makers. We also provide a full guide to bars and restaurants along the King Street corridor.

We are proud to support small businesses throughout Charleston. In this issue we showcase four distinct boutiques in the newly opened Palmetto Row Collectives as well as the unique collection of shops in the 2 Boroughs neighborhood.

Of course, this summer will showcase Charleston’s own star-spangled celebration

of the 250th year of our nation’s independence. From our backyards to our beaches, from our restaurants to the USS Yorktown, and from our parks to our waterfront, this July 4th promises to bring Charlestonians and visitors together like never before. In keeping with longstanding tradition, Charleston will commemorate Independence Day with a historic reenactment of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps of the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon—the exact spot where South Carolinians first heard the document read aloud in 1776.

Our third issue of Fig Magazine reminds us that there is something for everyone here in this beautiful city. We invite you to take a moment to share a meal, try out a new store, participate in one of the many arts and cultural events offered, and most of all, celebrate family, friends, and community.

Cheers to summer, Jennifer Wiggin & the Fig Magazine team

An Old Village Landmark

GENERATIONS OF MT. PLEASANT FAMILIES

know the best destination for a morning stroll with your toddler or an after-school treat for the big kids is Pitt Street Pharmacy.

Nestled in the heart of the Old Village, Pitt Street Pharmacy has long been a beloved local gathering spot. Once home to quaint waterfront cottages, the Old Village is known for its winding streets and lush tropical foliage. It’s the kind of neighborhood where children still walk to school and ride their bikes to— you guessed it—Pitt Street Pharmacy after.

Kids adore the pharmacy for its historic soda counter, snacks, and Wholly Cow Ice Cream (IYKYK). Parents love it for the everyday essentials, compounding pharmacy services, and knowledgeable staff. Even if you’re not from the Old Village, go visit. You’ll fall in love with it too.

Radiance, Redefined

we all wear the world on our faces. Stress, sun exposure, and pollution can take a toll on your skin, leaving it looking less than its best. Enter Soulshine Aesthetics.

This boutique medspa specializes in a balanced, regenerative approach to helping you achieve your skin goals. Rather than chasing extremes, the team focuses on creating lasting change that supports healthy, confident, radiant skin. Think of it as your face—refreshed, renewed, and glowing. Check out their Mt. Pleasant location now, or visit 915 Folly Road, Unit S,

Fresh Face: On the Coast Property Group

WHAT DO YOU GET when you bring together a group of women—family by choice, with distinct but complementary business skill sets—who are passionate about serving the Lowcountry? You get what may be the only local business seamlessly combining vacation rentals, event planning, property management, and real estate sales into one cohesive experience. Whether you’re visiting for a getaway, planning a major life event, or putting down roots for good, welcome to On the Coast Property Group + On the Coast Realty. The business is owned by a stepmother, stepdaughter, and a cousin by marriage—three women who have chosen to move

beyond the labels of “step” and “in-law” to become true family and business partners. They pair that love of family with a deep love of place, creating a seamless way for visitors and residents alike to build experiences and memories that last a lifetime. Picture a young couple planning a destination wedding: On the Coast finds the perfect high-end beach rental for their intimate celebration and manages every detail—from catering and décor to music and cake—bringing their vision to life. When that couple decides to make Charleston their forever home? One brand does it all: Buy, sell, rent, vacation, or celebrate On The Coast.

Home away from home

THE TEAM AT PROPER STAYS is dedicated to making our guests’ extended time in Charleston productive, restful, and effortlessly comfortable. Specializing in furnished executive rentals for stays of 30 days or more, they work with prestigious clients—from corporate leaders to celebrity guests—to ensure that anyone coming to the Holy City for an extended visit finds more than just a place to stay. They find a home. To rent any of our homes or this one featured above 5 1/2 Bennett, please contact our team directly.

Elevated OUTDOOR LIVING

CHARLESTON OUTDOOR DESIGN is home to the Lowcountry’s most trusted landscape artisans who create outdoor spaces that are as enduring as they are beautiful. Founder and President Marshall Kirkman draws on more than a decade of experience to craft exceptional environments—like this backyard oasis on Daniel Island—where precision, artistry, and thoughtful design blend together seamlessly. Their spaces are built not just to impress, but to be enjoyed for years to come.

CITY PARKS IN BLOOM

THE CHARLESTON PARKS CONSERVANCY’S MISSION: to cultivate exceptional public gardens and experiences in Charleston’s city parks.

Don’t miss a visit to the Conservancy’s park gardens in the historic Garden District. On Elizabeth Street, an intensely planted sidewalk garden draws you into Tiedemann Park. Explore the beautiful bioswale gardens, which mitigate flooding while providing pollinator habitat (and a peaceful respite for parents watching children on the playground). From there, walk one block to Vangie Rainsford Park to take in the cool, quiet shade garden and fountain.

Finish at the McGee Memorial Garden at Wragg Square. Slow down and be inspired by the rare plant species modeled on Peter and Patti McGee’s famous Charleston gardens.

Subscribe to the Conservancy newsletter to learn more about your parks and upcoming events.

Healing, reimagined

WALK THROUGH THE DOORS of Andrea Meier, LLC’s Holistic Wellness Collective and you’ll sense this is something different. It’s a place where clinical expertise and holistic healing come together to help clients exhale the moment they arrive. The dedicated team of clinicians supports clients navigating anxiety, trauma, relationships, addiction, burnout, and so much more.

No two healing journeys are the same, and the team at Andrea Meier, LLC understands that deeply. Every treatment plan is personalized and rooted in nervous system health, relational healing, and whole-person wellness.

A Night at the Theatre, Charleston-Style

AT THE DOCK STREET THEATRE— the oldest purpose-built theater in America—you can experience some of Charleston’s finest theatrical productions. During intermission, enjoy a cocktail, soda, or snack in the historic Tap Room, where rich wood, sumptuous leather, and moody lighting transport guests to another era. All of it is made even better by a talented and welcoming staff eager to share this beautiful space with you.

LOVE Your FACE

IN A WORLD that loves to tell you what’s wrong, FACE FOUNDRIÉ on Coleman Boulevard in Mt. Pleasant is here to help you see what’s already right. Known for advanced skincare treatments like Hydrafacial and ProCell microchanneling, FACE FOUNDRIÉ Charleston offers focused facials and results-driven services designed for healthy, radiant skin.

Healthy skin starts with the right team. The FACE FOUNDRIÉ Charleston experts combine advanced treatments with personalized care to help every guest love their face.

Upscale Lowcountry Living, Refreshed

STYLES AND TRENDS CHANGE— even in Charleston’s most prestigious neighborhoods— and when it’s time to refresh your home, the family-owned team at SKI Painting Co. is ready to help. Serving Johns, Kiawah, and Seabrook Islands and the surrounding communities, they handle everything from simple touch-ups to full-scale transformations, keeping your home looking polished, timeless, and worth every penny.

Jewelry worth the journey

STRAIGHT FROM ANTWERP, BELGIUM—

the diamond capital of the world—come the spectacular stones the talented team at Embler’s Jewelers transforms into timeless pieces for you and the people you love most. By traveling directly to the city through which nearly 70% of the world’s diamonds pass, Embler’s can offer Mt. Pleasant and the greater Charleston community exceptional prices on natural diamonds without compromising on quality or craftsmanship.

SAVOR THE MOMENT

CHARLESTON’S CELEBRATED Food and Beverage options are a reason to eat local all summer long. From fresh seafood to brick oven pizza to Shem Creek sunset dinners, the choices are plentiful, memorable and will keep you coming back for more. Find your Charleston favorites as well as the best new places to add to your list on the following pages.

CULINARY DELIGHTS OF CHARLESTON

OVER THE LAST SEVERAL DECADES, Charleston has set the standard for what a small city can offer when it comes to food and beverage—and Fig Magazine is here for a seat at the table. From home-cooked Southern fare and traditional barbecue to boat-to-table seafood and farm-fresh produce, this city has earned its reputation in the hearts and stomachs of foodies around the world.

It wasn’t always this way. Flash back to—say, around Y2K—and Upper King Street was barely developed. Restaurants clustered along lower East Bay Street, and one of the hardest reservations to land was at S.N.O.B. (short for Slightly North of Broad, a playful nod to the peninsula’s long-standing habit of saving the best spots for south of Broad Street). While S.N.O.B. remains a Charleston staple today, the city’s dining options have since become seemingly endless, and endlessly delicious. What changed? Maybe it was the launch of the Charleston Wine + Food Festival in 2005, which has grown into one of the Southeast’s premier annual culinary events. Maybe it was the rise of the celebrity chef era, with the Food Network helping launch chefs like Sean Brock and Kardea Brown into the national spotlight. Or maybe it was the vision and fortitude of restaurateurs who saw an opportunity with affordable real estate in areas that weren’t developed. Truthfully, we’re less concerned with the why and more thrilled by the results. Come to Charleston for the beaches and historic architecture but stay for the food. From charming coastal seafood joints to downtown fine dining and everything in between, there’s always a new culinary experience waiting for you.

THIS NEW CASUAL EATERY occupies a converted BP gas station and now features photos of famous Johnnys—such as musicians Johnny Cash, Johnny Gill, Johnny Marr and female civil rights activist Johnnie Tillmon.

Johnny’s Garage was recently voted Best New Bar by Charleston City Paper. And while they offer a full bar experience, they also have plenty of alcohol-free options, including creative slushies, hand-spun shakes, and their world-famous lineup of dirty sodas. A stage area offers live entertainment several nights a week.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly, dog-friendly night out with some nostalgia thrown in, head on over to Hanahan to check them out.

AT BROAD STREET CAFÉ, the locally roasted coffee is always fresh, the scratch-made biscuit sandwiches are always hot, and the vibe is always worth it.

Stop in for a quick grab & go, linger over a gourmet sandwich or salad and a glass of wine, or treat yourself to a pastry that’ll make your morning.

Whatever brings you in, Broad Street Café is your neighborhood spot.

19 Broad Street, Charleston @broad_street_cafe_charleston broadstreetcafe.com

IN A CITY CELEBRATED for its fresh seafood, The Walrus at Holy City—the popular brewery’s in-house raw bar—is a standout destination for your next night out. Enjoy oysters on the half shell (locally sourced during “R” months and from farther shores the rest of the year), peel-and-eat shrimp, and a rotating selection of coastal favorites, all served fresh by a knowledgeable and welcoming staff.

1021 Aragon Avenue, North Charleston 843.459.2948 holycitybrewing.com

DON GATO TEQUILA is based on the spirit of a retired luchador from Jalisco who never lost, and the obsession of a group of Charlestonians who knew it belonged here. Actor Danny McBride, his wife Gia, and a crew of longtime restaurateurs brought the legendary tequila stateside.

This tequila is the real deal. 100% blue agave. Zero additives. Crafted at a fourth-generation family distillery in the valley of Jalisco. The Blanco took a gold medal in The San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The Reposado was named Best in Show in New York, and one of the top five new tequilas of the year. Charleston has noticed too: you’ll now find Don Gato at Sullivan’s Fish Camp, and on cocktail menus, back bars, and retail shelves across the city.

Charleston, your tequila is here. Made good. For cool times.

dongatotequila.com @dongatotequila

Fresh Face: Tracer Coffee

THE STAFF AT FIG MAGAZINE believes there may be more to life than coffee—but we haven’t discovered it yet. So when we heard there was a new café in town, we immediately made our way to Tracer Coffee inside the Live Oak Hotel on Meeting Street.

Blending top-tier beans, cutting-edge processing techniques, sustainable farming practices, and an educational coffee blog, Tracer offers a thoughtfully crafted coffee (and delicious) experience on the peninsula. But at the heart of the business is a deeply personal story.

Founders Gina Cordoba and Eduardo Calle launched Tracer after Cordoba visited her grandfather’s long-forgotten farm in Mesitas del Colegio, Colombia, during the pandemic. As she walked the property reflecting on life and family, she discovered something

remarkable: despite years of neglect, her grandfather’s coffee plants were still thriving. The moment reconnected her to her family’s roots and inspired a vision for the future.

Today, Tracer Coffee remains committed to sourcing beans from local Colombian farmers who only practice sustainable, ethical farming methods without the use of child labor. Every cup reflects not only exceptional craftsmanship, but also a deep respect for the communities behind the beans.

More than a coffee shop, Tracer is a passion project grounded in history, sustainability, and love. And if you ask us, you can taste that in every single cup.

Check out some of Charleston’s finest coffee now in the lobby of the new Live Oak Hotel.

SALTHOUSE CATERING knows how to turn exceptional ingredients into unforgettable experiences. Known for blending creativity with impeccable execution, Salthouse crafts menus that are equal parts beautiful and delicious. Whether serving a wedding celebration, a cocktail reception, or a nonprofit gathering like the recent Art of Design Luncheon (pictured), Salthouse brings style, substance, and seamless hospitality to every table across the Lowcountry.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THREE

passionate world travelers and seasoned entrepreneurs—each from distinct yet complementary industries—come together to bring world-class bubbly to the Southeast? Meet Don Luchi Wines.

Launched in 2024 by entrepreneur Justin Wages, music producer David Kinloch, and industrial engineer Andre Grundy, Don Luchi Wines made waves immediately as South Carolina’s first Black-owned Prosecco brand. Offering both white and rosé varieties, the brand has already been featured in publications across the state and was selected for the prestigious opening and closing toast at the 2025 Charleston Wine + Food Festival.

Today, you can find Don Luchi Wines throughout the Lowcountry—from upscale wine bars like Accent on Wine to Bottles Beverage Superstore and restaurants like 167 Raw on King Street. Raise a glass to the dream team that brought exceptional Italian Prosecco to Charleston in style.

donluchiwines.com contact@officialdonluchi.com

S.N.O.B.— short for Slightly North of Broad— has long been synonymous in Charleston with delicious food and local tradition. This beloved bistro has been serving residents and visitors alike for decades, earning its reputation as an enduring culinary icon.

With an ever-evolving menu mixing Lowcountry classics with modern favorites, S.N.O.B. is a place you can return to again and again and always discover something new. But warm hospitality, thoughtful cuisine, and deeply satisfying meals always come standard.

192 East Bay Street, Charleston snobcharleston.com

843.723.3424

THE BRINGS A SEASON OF BAR TAKEOVERS, SIGNATURE BRUNCHES + LUNCHES, AND HANDS-ON CLASSES THAT KEEP THE ENERGY GOING ALL LONG.

KING STREET CORRIDOR

RESTAURANT GUIDE

CHARLESTON IS HOME to hundreds of amazing restaurants, bars, cafes, and distilleries. In this issue we’re highlighting those along the King Street corridor, in the heart of the Charleston Peninsula. From Broad Street to Line Street, this guide will help you find favorite places, hidden gems, and new establishments we encourage you to try!

RESTAURANTS

Pink Bellies

595 King Street, Suite 1

Bourbon N’ Bubbles

570 King Street

MESU

570 King Street

La Cave

550 King Street, Suite 150

Felix Cocktails et Cuisine

550 King Street, Suite 100

The Ordinary

544 King Street

Indaco

526 King Street

New Peking Chinese Restaurant

555 King Street

Benny Ravellos

520 King Street

Prohibition

547 King Street

Legami

492 King Street

The Darling Oyster Bar

513 King Street

The Belmont

511 King Street

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit

476 1/2 King Street

Uncork Wine

476 King Street

El Jefe Texican Cantina

468 King Street

Mario’s Italian Ristorante

487 King Street

O-Ku

463 King Street

Toast All Day 453 King Street

Toasted Crust

451 King Street

Juanita Greenberg’s Nacho Royale 439 King Street

Parcel 32

442 King Street

Halls Chophouse

434 King Street

Verde

433 King Street

Playa Bowls

429 King Street

Virginia’s On King

412 King Street

The Swamp Fox Restaurant

387 King Street

Chipotle Mexican Grill

374 King Street

Mama Kim’s

349 King Street

King Street Foods

347 King Street

CO

340 King Street

Beech

315 King Street

Bartaco

304 King Street

Leyla Fine Lebanese Cuisine

298 King Street

Fire Grill Asian Fusion

293 King Street

A.W. Shuck’s Seafood Shack

208 King Street

167 Raw Oyster Bar 193 King Street

Bin 152 152 King Street

Millers All Day 120 King Street

SPECIALTY SHOPS

Buzzed Bull Creamery

595 King Street, Suite 130

Sechey

540 King Street, Suite 101

Vintage Lounge

545 King Street

Insomnia Cookies 509 King Street

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams

501 A King Street

Kilwins

481 King Street

Republic Ice Cream 431 King Street

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

415 King Street

River Street Sweets

351 King Street

Freddo 239 1/2 King Street

Chocolat by Adam Turoni

194 King Street

BARS/NIGHTLIFE

Pour Taproom: Charleston 560 King Street

Uptown Social 587 King Street

On Air

565 King Street

King Street Dispensary

559 King Street

Charleston Beer Works

480 King Street

Silver Dollar

478 King Street

Satellite Bar

495 King Street

Republic 462 King Street

Zachary’s Daiquiris

460 King Street

The Cocktail Club

479 King Street

Forte Jazz Lounge

477 King Street

A.C.’s Bar & Grill

467 King Street

John King Grill & Dueling Piano Bar

428 King Street

The Bangkok Lounge 353 King Street, 2nd Floor

COFFEE/TEA SHOPS

Sweet Palm 471 King Street

Maccaro 427 King Street

La Patisserie 404 King Street

Mudhouse 375 King Street

VIVI Bubble Tea 357 King Street

Because Pets are Family, Too

THE TEAM AT ANGEL OAK ANIMAL HOSPITAL is proud to serve the four-legged members of families across Johns Island, with compassion, expertise, and convenience. They understand that pets are beloved members of the family, so they’re committed to delivering exceptional care at every visit.

With advanced in-house laboratory equipment and a dedicated team of veterinary professionals, Angel Oak Animal Hospital helps keep Lowcountry pets happy, healthy, and thriving.

Where Small Businesses Grow

LAUNCHING A RETAIL BUSINESS is incredibly difficult. Even the most talented creatives with brilliant ideas and endless hustle can struggle to translate a successful online shop into a thriving brick-and-mortar establishment. And yet, small businesses are the heart and soul of Charleston, offering unique shopping experiences that can’t be found anywhere else.

That’s where Palmetto Row Collectives comes in. Created and managed by the City of Charleston, and located in the thriving core of Charleston’s historic shopping district, this new collaborative retail space supports emerging entrepreneurs by bringing multiple vendors together under

one roof. In the shared space, each small business benefits from increased visibility, creative collaboration, and the opportunity to grow in a supportive environment. In many ways, the Collective serves as a retail incubator, helping entrepreneurs establish a physical presence in a space that feels safe, inspiring, and endlessly creative.

From bold, beautiful canvases and playful tourist collectibles to handcrafted handbags and specialized skincare, there’s truly something for everyone at Palmetto Row Collectives. Next time you’re in the area, be sure to stop in, find something special, and support a local small business. You’ll be glad you did.

PALMETTO ROW COLLECTIVES

Purposeful, Passionate FASHION

WHAT IS IT ABOUT the perfect handbag that instantly lifts your mood? At The House of Juls, you can feel even better about your purchase knowing that 20% of all profits support Pink for Africa, the nonprofit founded by owner Juliette Mills Lutterodt to provide breast cancer awareness, education, and support throughout Africa.

And the bags themselves? They’re stunning: thoughtfully designed, endlessly stylish, and fully deserving of our enthusiastic recommendation.

Chinenyem Nwadiugwu, Founder

The Intersection of Skin & Wellness

FOUNDED BY Senior Software Engineer Chinenyem Nwadiugwu, whose 16-year career in technology informed the brand’s thoughtful and systems-driven approach to skincare, She Biology explores skincare through the lens of psychodermatology—the connection between stress, emotion, and skin health. Rooted in clinically minded botanical formulations and intentional self-care rituals, the brand creates sensorial skincare designed to support the skin barrier through modern life. Thoughtfully sourced and produced in the United States, She Biology merges scientific intention with elevated wellness, offering a modern approach to luxury skincare.

Bold Colors, Bigger Questions

WITH A DRAMATIC BLEND OF COLOR, texture, and unmistakable point of view, local artist, College of Charleston graduate, and Colombian native Daniela Salgado explores questions of soul, spirit, and the meaning of life itself. Through painting and sculpture, she forges connections with art lovers while uncovering beauty within life’s biggest questions.

Visit the shop inside the Palmetto Row Collective to see these beautiful pieces.

Wearing the Holy City

IF YOU LOVE Charleston, why not wear it? That’s the question asked by The Original Charleo Co. ® , and it’s fun to answer. Whether

Summer, Minus the CreepyCrawlies

SUMMER IS MEANT TO BE ENJOYED

in the Lowcountry. Sunshine, swimming pools, backyard cookouts, and evenings on the porch are what this season is all about. But summer in Charleston also brings heat, humidity, moisture—and plenty of unwanted critters searching for cool, damp spaces to escape the elements. Unfortunately, that often means your crawlspace becomes their perfect hideaway.

That’s where Lowcountry Crawlspaces comes in.

Instead of letting moisture, humidity, and pests take over beneath your home, turn your crawlspace into a clean, dry, moisture-controlled encapsulation system designed for comfort and protection year-round. Our team specializes in creating healthier crawlspaces that help defend against moisture intrusion, odors, mold growth, and seasonal critters—while improving the overall condition of your home from the ground up.

So while the temperatures rise outside, you can stay cool, comfortable, and worry-free knowing your home is protected underneath.

Get out in the sun—leave the crawlspace to us.

Fresh Face: Picking Up the Pieces

THERE’S A NEW FACE IN CHILDCARE on James Island, and it’s giving local families an exciting new option for helping babies, toddlers, and preschoolers grow in a safe, supportive, and loving environment. Welcome to Picking Up the Pieces Enrichment Center.

The center was founded on a simple belief: children thrive when they are known by name, supported by caring adults, encouraged to explore their curiosity, and connected to both their culture and community.

Founder Julia Crumblin set out to create the kind of place to which she would be proud to send her own children. Inspired by Montessori principles and rooted in hands-on discovery, independence, and thoughtful guidance, she created

something that feels like more than a daycare or school. It feels like a home away from home for Lowcountry children.

Today, Picking Up the Pieces offers programs for children ages six months through kindergarten, along with supportive homeschool and afterschool options for elementary-aged students. Children are encouraged to ask questions, build meaningful relationships with teachers, develop routines that work for them, and engage in age-appropriate academics and social learning. Most importantly, they’re given space to play, have fun, and feel deeply cared for.

If you’re searching for a nurturing place where your child can grow and thrive, Picking Up the Pieces Enrichment Center may be exactly what your family has been looking for.

Built to be Seen

YOU’RE A BUSINESS OWNER WITH A BRILLIANT PRODUCT. What you may not have is the time—or expertise—to build an optimized, mobile-responsive website with the SEO strategy needed to help customers actually find it. That’s where Smart Marketing Advertising Agency comes in. Open in Anderson since 2010, but with a new office in Charleston, their team is ready to help take your business to the next level through thoughtful marketing, advertising, and digital strategy.

Tonya Childs, Founder & Operational Chief Executive Officer

Owner Maria Scott

More Than a Spa Treatment

A FOOT MASSAGE CAN CHANGE

YOUR LIFE. Maria Scott, owner of Charleston’s first dedicated luxury foot spa, knows it can. After all, a single foot massage during her travels inspired the business she would eventually build.

At Sole Sanctuary, your feet come first, but the rest of the body is sure to follow. Designed as an escape from the stress of everyday life, the King Street location invites guests to slow down, unwind, and experience deep relaxation in an atmosphere that feels refined, indulgent, and truly unforgettable.

Fresh Face: Addielee’s Gourmet Chicken Patties

SOME PEOPLE LOVE FOOD. Others love people. And then there are those rare few who combine the two and create something truly special. Annie, founder of Addielee’s Gourmet Chicken Patties is one of them.

Annie has been cooking her whole life, much of it right here in the Lowcountry. She learned at the knee of her Aunt Laura, who she still believes was the best cook she ever knew. By now, though, cooking comes naturally to her; she’s the kind of cook who never measures and instinctively knows that a pinch of paprika and an extra helping of garlic can turn any dish around.

After a career spent owning restaurants in Summerville and Moncks Corner—one of which was even featured on the Food Network, which may be why she looks so familiar—Annie began helping her daughter with her daycare business, cooking fried

chicken for the children’s lunches. They loved it so much that she kept making more, until one day her daughter joked, “Mama, you’re gonna give these kids cholesterol!” While nutritional recommendations may change over time, Annie had to admit her daughter had a point.

Enter Addielee’s Gourmet Chicken Patties, the next chapter in her hard-earned success story. Sold at local Piggly Wiggly stores, with plans to expand into larger grocery chains and area school districts, the chicken patties are just as delicious and kid-approved as Annie’s fried chicken, but they’re also USDAcertified healthy.

Annie’s newest dream is a simple one: a drive-through restaurant where customers can grab healthy, delicious gourmet chicken patties while she continues doing what she loves most: feeding people.

Access to Justice for Immigrants

WHEN MARIA’S HUSBAND WAS DETAINED during a routine traffic stop, her family’s world was shattered. He was the sole breadwinner, and overnight Maria was left to support four children while navigating a complex immigration system she didn’t understand and couldn’t afford. Rent, groceries, medication, bond fees, filing fees: every day brought another impossible choice between keeping her family afloat and fighting to bring her husband home.

Charleston Legal Access is committed to protecting the rights and dignity of immigrant communities, particularly those in the Food and Beverage industry. Their immigration project, Serving Those Who Serve Charleston, focuses on breaking down

barriers to justice and ensuring that everyone, regardless of income or status, can access the legal help they need.

This program is proudly supported by Homegrown Hospitality, whose generous donation helped launch the campaign. Through this partnership, Charleston Legal Access can assist the workers who contribute so much to Charleston’s vibrant hospitality community, ensuring they have access to critical legal services when they need them.

Scan to join the efforts of Homegrown Hospitality and consider supporting the project, Serving Those Who Serve Charleston.

Awe TAKES FLIGHT

JUST NORTH OF MOUNT PLEASANT, the Avian Conservation Center and Center for Birds of Prey is celebrating 35 years of conservation, education, and avian medical care in the Lowcountry.

Located just 30 minutes from downtown Charleston, the Center offers flight demonstrations (10:30 am through Saturday) featuring hawks, vultures, owls, falcons, and kites. Visitors experience remarkably close encounters as they watch these powerful birds soar overhead. Fig Magazine can confirm: it’s awe-inspiring. With guided tours and an afternoon owl program, the Center is a slightly off-the-beaten-path destination that delights tourists and locals alike.

Behind the wonder is an extraordinary mission. The medical clinic operates 365 days a year and has treated more than 15,000 wild birds since opening in 1991. It is also the Southeast’s only permanent Oiled Bird Treatment Facility, proving that conservation and unforgettable experiences can exist hand-in-hand.

Charmed in Charleston

IF YOU HAVEN’T VISITED the charm bar insides Natalie Holst’s boutique Holst + Lee downtown on State Street, you’re missing out. Enjoy the amazing experience of creating your own beautiful custom charm bracelets and necklaces with expert help from Natalie and her team.

With an ever-changing but always delightful collection of tiny treasures and playful pieces of flair, it’s the kind of place where you’re guaranteed to find exactly what you didn’t know you were looking for.

An Invitation to Explore

A REAL PERK of our mission to support Charleston’s local businesses is doing “research”. That includes the enjoyable activity of walking around a cute neighborhood and popping in to a variety of boutiques and cafes. One of our favorite areas to do that is on the peninsula in the 2 Boroughs neighborhood of Cannonborough and Elliotborough.

It is an amazing oasis of unique shops and establishments that deliver relentless creativity. Because there’s something for everyone, we’ve curated and listed some of these businesses in this special section. We encourage you to treat yourselves to a leisurely morning or afternoon exploring this fascinating neighborhood. The 2 Boroughs are open for business and ready to wow you with their products and service. Give it a stroll—you won’t regret it!

DANIELA’S DOWNTOWN offers a locally roasted coffee program in addition to hot breakfast and lunch and specialty items on their market shelves.

Their philosophy is simple: they are driven by a passion for authentic local flavors and high-quality ingredients as they strive to create a welcoming atmosphere that is friendly and inviting.

132 Spring Street • danielaschs.com

ROOTED IN CHARLESTON from their roving skoolie to downtown Charleston brick and mortar, they’re your local neighborhood plant dealer. More than just a plant shop, they also feature an eclectic blend of locally curated makers and artists.

232 Ashley Avenue • plantbuscharleston.com

THE PAPER CANOPY is a vibrant & cozy shop for paper people, craft enthusiasts, and stationery lovers! Their shelves are filled with thoughtfully curated art supplies, beautiful stationery, and unique gifts from talented artists both locally and around the globe. They believe in the everyday magic of paper, the joy of creating, and the art of connection.

93 Spring Street • thepapercanopy.com

PHILOSOPHERS & FOOLS is a cozy neighborhood bookstore bar that blends an independent bookstore with a relaxed wine & beer bar. Shop their selection of books, meet up with friends at the bar for snacks and a beverage, or host your book club there! They also have a variety of events each month which can be found listed on their website or their Instagram.

50 Bogard Street, Suite A • philosophersandfools.com

HERMOSA JEWELRY is a charming jewelry and gift boutique filled with handcrafted jewelry, curated gifts, and Charleston’s first Permanent Jewelry experience. From everyday staples to statement pieces, Hermosa helps women elevate their style with jewelry that feels both effortless and special.

189 Saint Phillip Street, Unit C • hermosajewelry.com

THE TINY TASSEL is a Charleston-based, Black and Asian woman-owned design house crafting small-batch, in-house designed clothing, accessories, and home goods made for everyday joy. Founded in 2015 by Mimi Striplin, every piece is layered with intention, color, and the belief that joy is something you can wear.

46 Spring Street Unit B • thetinytassel.com

HAVEN’S is a space for slow fashion and independent design. Thoughtfully curated and deeply personal, it celebrates individuality, artistry, and timeless style. Rooted in a love for craftsmanship and the beauty of the unexpected, havens brings together clothing, jewelry, and objects from around the world whose work transcends trends and tells a story.

579 King Street, Suite A • havens-chs.com

CHARLESTON CANDLE CO. crafts luxurious home fragrances, imbued with charm and inspired by the alluring blend of architectural heritage, flourishing horticulture, and cherished moments of the Lowcountry. Visit their flagship store on St. Philip Street to shop their collection of candles and home decor, or join one of their candle-making workshops.

218 Saint Phillip Street A • charlestoncandleco.com

BOBBLES & LACE CHARLESTON is a fashion-forward boutique on Upper King Street known for transforming the way women shop through personalized styling and an elevated in-store experience. From everyday denim to eventready looks, Bobbles & Lace delivers a curated head-to-toe styling experience designed to help women feel confident, inspired, and completely themselves.

577 King Street • bobblesandlace.com

MESS HALL TRUCK SHOP is an interactive custom trucker hat experience where guests create one-of-a-kind hats, totes, and accessories using curated patches, pins, and buttons in a fun, high-energy retail environment. Built around creativity and self-expression, Mess Hall turns fashion into a cherished memorable experience.

62 Spring Street A • messhalltruckshop.com

Opera for Everyone

IS YOUR ONLY EXPERIENCE with opera through Julia Roberts and Pretty Woman?

Charleston Opera Theater is here to change that. Their team has brought classics like La Bohème and Carmen to the stage of the College of Charleston Sottile Theater in innovative new productions that appeal to the opera enthusiast and newcomer alike! No matter the title or scale of production, a Charleston Opera Theater experience promises to bring audiences together around the beauty and emotion of this historic art form.

What makes opera so remarkable is that every soaring note is powered entirely by the human voice with no microphones and no amplification. Whether sung in Italian, French, or German, the emotion behind the music is universal.

Through community partnerships with the Charleston Symphony and the College of Charleston, Charleston Opera Theater is cultivating a new generation of performers and music lovers, proving that the centuriesold tradition of opera is alive, evolving, and deeply human.

Changing Lives, One Paw at a Time

PET HELPERS operates on a single, unifying belief: saving animals is truly a community effort. From their James Island-based shelter, they connect loving families with animals in need (mostly dogs and cats but we’ve seen bunnies and guinea pigs on their site, too), creating brighter futures for homeless pets and people across the Lowcountry.

Every adoption, volunteer service, donation, or even social media share is changing lives for the better, proving again and again that the Lowcountry is full of passionate animal lovers who want to make a difference. Can you adopt, foster, donate, or spread the word? If so, you’re an integral part of their mission to improve lives, one paw at a time.

Telling Stories that Matter

ATOMIC FOCUS ENTERTAINMENT is a multi-award-winning creator and producer of exceptional original content for Film, TV, Podcasts, and Print.

Based in Charleston, this entertainment company tells visually striking, intensely resonant stories rooted in the human experience. From short films and feature documentaries to celebrity filled talk shows and podcasts, the team brings emotional storytelling to the forefront—creating cinematic narratives shaped by humanity, memory, and connection.

Check out a reel of their work and discover how Atomic Focus Entertainment can bring your idea to the screen.

Host Smarter in Charleston

RENTING OUT YOUR VACATION RENTAL in the Holy City, surrounding neighborhoods and local beaches has never been easier than with Stay Duvet. Their dedicated local team is on-site daily, giving homeowners peace of mind while delivering an exceptional guest experience. Combining deep Charleston market knowledge with a hospitality-driven approach, Stay Duvet maximizes your property’s earning potential through personalized, boutique-style management backed by proven experience.

Scan to get a personalized performance evaluation of your home.