Local Life Magazine NOV 2026 PART 2 by LocalLife

uscb.edu BLUFFTON | BEAUFORT | HILTON HEAD ISLAND

outdoors

The World’s Most Advanced Boat Club is now on Hilton Head Island. With a monthly subscription, you’ll get access to a new, fully equipped, smart fleet of motorboats without the hassle of ownership. Reserve and access boats and harbors through the Skipperi app.

Giant ground sloth Today’s sloths are sleepy little tree dwellers known for moving at the speed of a Monday morning. Their prehistoric relatives were a different story. Several kinds of giant ground sloths lived in the Lowcountry, including Megalonyx and the enormous Eremotherium. The latter could stand almost 15 feet tall, making even the tallest modern basketball player look undersized. These massive vegetarians used long claws to pull branches within reach, strip away leaves and defend themselves. Ground-sloth fossils found in the Lowcountry and near Harleyville confirm that these giants once shared South Carolina with saber-toothed cats, ancient horses, llamas and other Ice Age animals.

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There was nothing particularly short about the short-faced bear except its snout. With long legs and a massive body, the largest species could tower over a person when standing upright. Running into one on a wooded trail would have made a modern black bear seem almost cuddly. South Carolina has a special connection to these formidable animals. The Ashley River near Charleston is the site of Arctodus pristinus, the smaller species of short-faced bear. Its fossils offer another glimpse of just how different the Lowcountry once looked.

Hey ho, let 's go! Join the owners of Wild Birds Unlimited Hilton Head for every aspect of backyard birding. From equipment and outings, to solutions and resources.

Saber-toothed cat Often called a sabertoothed tiger, Smilodon wasn’t actually a tiger. It was, however, a muscular ambush predator with canine teeth several inches long, so correcting it probably would have been unwise. Rather than chasing prey over long distances, saber-toothed cats relied on powerful front limbs to wrestle large animals to the ground before delivering a carefully placed bite. A skull and lower jaw found north of Harleyville provide striking evidence that these cats once prowled South Carolina. They survived until around the end of the Ice Age, when many of the large animals they hunted disappeared as well.

Giant beaver Modern beavers can redesign an entire neighborhood without applying for a single permit. Their Ice Age relatives were even more impressive, at least in size. Giant beavers stretched more than 6 feet long and could weigh as much as a black bear. Despite their resemblance to today’s beavers, they probably didn’t cut down trees or build elaborate dams. Their teeth were better suited for aquatic plants, and they hung out in shallow lakes, ponds and marshes. Castoroides fossils have been found on Edisto Beach and in Charleston County. As the climate warmed and wetlands changed, these enormous rodents disappeared.

Golden-Crowned Kinglet

CELEBRATING

45 YEARS OF SAVING SONGBIRDS

Feisty golden-crowned kinglets are tricky feeder guests. You can still improve your odds, especially now that they’re arriving for winter across much of the U.S. Suet is your best bet. Soft suet dough or bark butter (a spreadable suet mix) works better than hard cakes, because kinglets have tiny bills.

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LOST IN MODERN TIMES For millions of years species came and went as climates shifted and ecosystems transformed. But some of South Carolina’s missing animals disappeared much more recently, and this time, people played a major role.

Passenger pigeon (Extinct since 1914)

The passenger pigeon was once so abundant that extinction seemed almost unimaginable. Billions lived across North America, traveling in flocks so enormous they could darken the sky for hours or even days. Seeing passenger pigeons would have been ordinary. Seeing only one would have been strange. Gathering in huge, easily located groups made the birds convenient targets. Commercial hunters killed them by the thousands for meat, while logging destroyed the hardwood forests where they nested and fed. Railroads and telegraphs helped hunters locate flocks and ship birds to distant markets with alarming efficiency. Their numbers collapsed in just a few decades. Martha, the last known passenger pigeon, died at the Cincinnati Zoo on Sept. 1, 1914, ending a species that once seemed endless.

Carolina parakeet (Extinct since 1918) Long before escaped pet parrots began setting up shop in American cities, the United States had a parrot of its own. The Carolina parakeet was bright green with a yellow head and reddish-orange face. In other words, it looked dressed for a tropical vacation even while flying over the Carolinas. Large, noisy flocks lived in forests, swamps and river bottoms, feeding on seeds, fruits and crops. That last menu choice didn’t endear them to farmers. Several human pressures likely contributed to their decline. The birds were hunted for their feathers and captured for the pet trade, while deforestation eliminated much of their habitat. Their social behavior may have made matters worse. When birds were injured, others reportedly remained nearby, leaving more of the flock vulnerable to hunters. The last known Carolina parakeet, a male named Inca, died at the Cincinnati Zoo in 1918. His mate, Lady Jane, had died the previous year.

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Ivory-billed woodpecker (Last universally accepted sighting in 1944) Few missing birds have inspired more obsession than the ivory-billed woodpecker. One of the world’s largest woodpeckers, it once inhabited old-growth bottomland forests and cypress swamps across the southeast. Its dramatic black-and-white plumage, pale bill and swept-back crest earned it the nickname “Lord God bird,” supposedly inspired by the reaction of people lucky enough to see one. Logging destroyed much of the mature forest it needed, while hunting added pressure to its declining population. The last widely accepted sighting occurred in Louisiana in 1944. Since then, possible calls, fleeting glimpses and blurry recordings have launched one search after another. Every few years the ivory-bill seems to rise from the ornithological dead, only to disappear before anyone can obtain indisputable proof. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed declaring the species extinct in 2021 but did not include it among the species formally delisted for extinction in 2023 while officials continued reviewing information. For now, the ivory-bill occupies a strange place between protected species, possible survivor and feathered legend.

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Bachman’s warbler (Delisted due to extinction in 2023) Bachman’s warbler was tiny, bright and closely tied to the South Carolina Lowcountry. The Rev. John Bachman discovered the bird near Charleston in 1832, and his friend John James Audubon later named it in his honor. Males had yellow underparts, a black throat and a dark crown, packing quite a bit of style into a body barely more than 4 inches long. The birds nested in swampy bottom-land forests and dense canebrakes across the Southeast before migrating to Cuba for winter. Habitat destruction followed them at both ends of the journey. Southern forests and canebrakes were cleared, while much of their winter habitat in Cuba also disappeared. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lists the bird’s last confirmed sighting in the 1980s. The species was removed from the endangered species list because of extinction in 2023. The bird discovered near Charleston left behind specimens, illustrations and recordings, reminders of a song that once belonged to the Lowcountry.

LESSONS FROM THE LOST Extinction rarely arrives with a dramatic final scene. More often, it happens piece by piece. Forests are cleared, wetlands disappear, and populations shrink until too few animals remain to recover. These creatures vanished for different reasons across vastly different stretches of time. But the more recent losses carry a lesson close to home: Abundance is no guarantee of permanence. Passenger pigeons once numbered in the billions. Carolina parakeets once filled southern forests with color and noise. Within a remarkably short time, both were gone. Protecting habitat, reducing pollution, supporting conservation efforts, following wildlife regulations and giving wild animals space can help keep today’s vulnerable species from joining them. Bringing back an Ice Age giant might make for a better movie. Keeping the wildlife we still have makes for a much better ending. LL

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LOWCOUNTRY ALMANAC

November BY BAILEY GILLIAM

Night & day

November takes about 40 minutes of daylight with it from beginning to end, and the return to standard time makes evenings feel shorter still.

Cooler days, golden marshes and plenty of reasons to savor late fall

November may be the Lowcountry’s sweet spot. Summer’s humidity has finally loosened its grip, the marsh turns shades of bronze and gold, and cool mornings often give way to afternoons made for getting outside. Gardens fill with hardy greens, waterways settle into their late-fall rhythms, and earlier sunsets bring gatherings indoors and around the table. With guidance from the 2026 Old Farmer’s Almanac and Grow Great Vegetables South Carolina, here’s what to watch for, plant, harvest and enjoy this month.

Weather predictions The Old Farmer’s Almanac calls for a cooler and drier-thanaverage November across its Southeast forecast region. Average temperature: 55.5 degrees Precipitation: 1.5 inches FORECAST BY WEEK Nov. 1-8: Showers; cool Nov. 9-13: Isolated showers; warm Nov. 14-22: Sunny; very cold, then warmer Nov. 23-27: Showers; warm Nov. 28-30: Sunny; cool 126

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FALL PASSAGE A monarch butterfly pauses to refuel at Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, photographed by Chris Klonowski. Each fall monarchs pass through the Lowcountry on their southward journey toward Florida and other warmer wintering grounds.

Astronomical events

In the garden

Longer nights give November skywatchers plenty of reasons to head outside. Meteors, a bright full moon and a distant planet at opposition are among the month’s celestial highlights.

November isn’t the end of the Lowcountry growing season, but the emphasis begins shifting from planting to tending and harvesting established cool-season crops.

Nov. 4-5: Southern Taurids peak with a chance to spot slow-moving fireballs. Nov. 9: New moon brings dark skies ideal for stargazing. Nov. 11-12: Northern Taurids peak, offering another chance for bright fireballs. Nov. 16-17: Leonid meteor shower peaks, bringing fast-moving meteors. Nov. 24: The full Beaver Moon brightens the late-fall sky. Nov. 25: Uranus reaches opposition, making this one of the best times of year to observe it.

Tides & currents The moon doesn’t just put on a show overhead. It helps set the daily rhythm of our rivers, sounds and beaches. Scan this QR code for the latest tide and current predictions from NOAA.

©CHRIS KLONOWSKI

Sunrise: 6:39-7:05 a.m. Sunset: 5:17-5:32 p.m. Fall back: Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 1. Set clocks back one hour.

PLANT & TEND Continue caring for fall plantings of lettuce, kale, spinach, radishes and other hardy greens. Garlic can still go into the ground this month, while recently planted strawberries begin settling in for the cooler months. Remove spent plants and diseased material from garden beds, but consider leaving healthy seed heads and stems where they can provide food and shelter for wildlife. Have your soil tested before adding lime or making major amendments, and begin planning next year’s garden and winter cover crops. If you grow asparagus, remove the fernlike tops after they have browned and died back. Raspberry pruning depends on the type being grown, so identify the variety before cutting canes. HARVEST The November garden still provides plenty for the table. Depending on planting dates and conditions, look for arugula, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, carrots, celery, cilantro, chard, Chinese greens, collards, herbs, kale, leeks, lettuce, mustard greens, parsnips, scallions, spinach and turnips.

Best days

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, lunar lore favors these dates for these activities: Go fishing: Nov. 9-24 Wash the floors: Nov. 18-19 Wash the windows: Nov. 20-21 Bake a pie: Nov. 26, coincidentally Thanksgiving

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outdoors

TROWEL TALK

Party thyme

FRESH HERBS AND OTHER HOMEGROWN INGREDIENTS ADD LOCAL FLAIR TO HOLIDAY TABLES, COCKTAILS AND GIFTS STORY BY ALEA WILKINS

Holiday meals prepared with herbs and ingredients you provide taste extra special, and the Lowcountry’s long growing season offers plenty of opportunities to bring gardenfresh flavor to the table. Linda Kurecki of the Hardeeville Garden Club of South Carolina shares her favorite ways to incorporate herbs and other homegrown ingredients into fun, festive recipes.

THYME TO FEAST Thyme is a natural fit for the Thanksgiving table, adding savory flavor to stuffing, poultry and roasted vegetables. In November, harvest fresh sprigs as needed, cutting tender stems rather than woody growth. Give it plenty of sun and well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. It prefers conditions on the drier side.

[LL] What about fresh mint this time of year? [LK] It sounds crazy, but I love adding mint to OldFashioneds. When my husband and I were on a trip to Miami, we found a famous hotel bar that uses Ernest Hemingway’s Papas Pilar rum and fresh mint to make Old-Fashioneds instead of Mojitos. It gives it a really fun, sweet flavor as opposed to standard bitters. Also, you can save some of the mint to prepare a simple syrup for extra flavor in cocktails, lemonades and more. Just heat one cup of sugar and one cup of water over the stove until the sugar dissolves, then steep the fresh leaves for 15 to 30 minutes (depending on the flavor you want), and you have a delicious mint syrup!

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[LOCAL Life] How can I use my garden herbs in my Thanksgiving dinner? [Linda Kurecki] I love using fresh herbs in my cooking. Since we live in such a warm climate, I can pretty much grow herbs year-round, and they just bring a little more flavor and color than the dried stuff you can get from a store. Thyme and tarragon work beautifully in my stuffing, so I’ll head out with my snips, grab a bundle, wash them really well (this time of year, Lowcountry gardeners need to beware of soot, spiders or other pests that can fester) and add them in for extra garden-to-table freshness. MINT CONDITION Spearmint stays productive well into fall. Give it moist, well-drained soil and sun to partial shade, and consider growing it in a container to keep its vigorous spread in check. In November, harvest healthy sprigs before cold weather slows growth, cutting stems just above a set of leaves to encourage new shoots.

PICK OF THE SEASON Meyer lemons typically reach their prime from late fall into winter. Look beyond the calendar: Fruit is ready to pick when it turns a rich yellow, feels heavy and juicy and gives slightly to a gentle squeeze. Because citrus doesn’t continue to ripen significantly after harvest, let lemons develop their best color and flavor on the tree.

[LL] I want to give something I grew as a gift. Do you have any ideas? [LK] I love preparing homemade Limoncello. Take vodka and lemon peels — yes, just the peels — and let them steep together in a cool, dark place for at least a month. Once it looks nice and yellow, strain out the lemon peels, and mix the infusion with cooled simple syrup. Add to small bottles or jars, and it’s ready to share. For an extra special twist, you can stir in heavy whipping cream to make a creamy, dessert-y Limoncello.

NOVEMBER BIRTH FLOWER

Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemums are synonymous with holiday comfort, brightening up front porches and dinner tables with their rich, late-season blooms. Ranging in color from white, orange and yellow to pink, red and purple, the flower offers options for any party color scheme, and they are hardy enough to be grown in any South Carolina garden. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, mums symbolize loyalty, friendship and joy, making them a cheerful addition to gatherings with loved ones.

WHAT’S IN BLOOM THIS MONTH? Snapdragons

Cool-season annuals and late-fall favorites bring bursts of color to local gardens this November.

Pineapple Sage

Annuals: Pansies, Violas, Snapdragons, Sweet Alyssum, Dianthus Perennials: Chrysanthemums, Mexican Bush Sage, Pineapple Sage

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Dress for the occasion

SOCIAL SEASON CALLS FOR RICH TEXTURES, A LITTLE SHIMMER AND LOOKS WORTH CELEBRATING

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HRIZUK STYLED BY BAILEY GILLIAM Cooler evenings bring a fuller social calendar to the Lowcountry, from Thanksgiving gatherings and oyster roasts to weddings, galas and holiday parties. Local boutiques are rising to the occasion with rich color, elevated fabrics, statement accessories and looks that feel polished without losing their sense of fun. Whether the invitation calls for formal, festive or somewhere in between, November is a good time to enjoy getting dressed again.

Hilton Head Island resident Christina Mulshenock wearing Spartina 449

FRESH FINDS

A little something extra

Rich color, tactile fabrics and a touch of sparkle set the tone for November. These standout pieces bring personality to the season and plenty of reasons to wear them well beyond a single night out.

Carry the occasion Add a touch of Italian elegance to your celebration wardrobe with this HHB handbag from Palmettoes. Made in Italy, its rich burgundy hue, structured handles and belted detailing create a sophisticated silhouette that pairs beautifully with November’s dressier looks. Roomy enough for everyday essentials yet polished enough for a special occasion, it’s an accessory worth carrying long after the party ends.

Lady in red The Lucy Paris satin cowl-neck dress from Maggie & Me stands out in deep merlot. Its fluid silhouette and dramatic open back give the seasonal shade a glamorous edge, making it an easy choice for weddings, cocktail parties and evenings that call for something extra.

Velvet crush Pink Chicken’s velour dresses from Island Child bring jewel tones, sweet ruffled details and plenty of softness to the smallest partygoers. Comfortable enough for a long family gathering but polished enough for holiday photos, they’re also made for plenty of twirling.

Best dressed The Birmingham shirt by Greyson, available at John Bayley Clothier, gives the classic button-down a more relaxed feel. Soft blue stripes keep the look refined, while its knit construction adds comfort for a long evening out. Wear it under a jacket for a dressier occasion or on its own for a more relaxed look.

Silk celebration The Martina top from Outside Hilton Head makes its statement through texture and movement. An airy silk overlay in a rich wine hue falls into an asymmetrical handkerchief hem, while a soft lining and gently gathered sleeves keep the flowing silhouette comfortable. Pair it with polished separates for Thanksgiving dinner, cocktails or an evening out.

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GET THE LOOK

One wardrobe, endless possibilities Great style doesn’t have to follow a formula. Pair something elegant with something unexpected, mix dressy fabrics with playful prints, or add bold jewelry and Western details. The contrast makes special-occasion dressing feel more personal and gives those once-in-a-while pieces many more reasons to leave the closet.

Formal meets funky A sophisticated bronze dress from The Back Door gets an entirely different personality layered beneath a whimsical horse sweater from Brims on the Bluff. Turquoise jewelry and intricately detailed Western boots, also from Brims, add bold color and character. The result is equal parts elegant and unexpected, and much more fun than following the usual party-dressing rules.

style

Hilton Head Island resident Martha Powell wearing The Back Door (dress) & Brims on the Bluff (sweater, jewelry and boots)

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Simple swaps

One stand-out piece can go much further with a few strategic changes. Swap a layer, shoe, accessory or top, and the same wardrobe can move from playful to polished to full-on formal.

Western whimsy

Full glam

Cocktail hour

Turquoise boots and jewelry from Brims on the Bluff take on a fresh look when paired with a floral top from Spartina 449 and a black scalloped skirt from Brims. Florals, turquoise and Western details make the combination ideal for an occasion that calls for less formality and more individual style.

Without the playful layers, the bronze dress from The Back Door is ready for a completely different invitation. Its coordinating wrap and metallic heels create an elegant, monochromatic look fit for a wedding, gala or formal evening.

The black scalloped skirt from Brims on the Bluff takes a dressier turn with a black top and richly textured blue jacket from Evelyn & Arthur. A dramatic statement necklace and black heels from The Back Door finish the look with just the right amount of cocktail-hour flair.

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Elevate your style with gold.

shopping

Local Love A LITTLE SOMETHING SPECIAL The best gifts show you know someone well. This month, local shops share special finds for the people on your list, from the chef who loves to entertain to the friend who never misses mahjong night. You might even find a little something for yourself.

FOR THE NATURE LOVER This woven deer vase makes a statement with or without blooms. Available in two sizes. Available at J. Banks Design

FOR THE CHEF Hand-sponged olive branches give VIETRI’s Oliva Olive Oil Bottle a touch of Italian artistry.

Celebrating

50 Years

With over 75 years of combined experience in the jewelry industry, our knowledgeable staff specializes in matching your personality and style with jewelry that you will love wearing for years to come.

Available at Hilton Head Olive Oils & Balsamics FOR THE HOST Gleaming aluminum and rippled edges make the Carmel Rectangle Serving Tray an elegant entertaining essential. Available at Le Cookery

FOR THE CANDLELIGHT LOVER Jan Barboglio pairs hand-forged iron, floral details and mouth-blown glass votive accents in this striking centerpiece. Available at Pyramids

843.689.2900 | heritagejewelershhi.com 28 Shelter Cove Lane, Suite 114, Shelter Cove Towne Centre Tuesday - Saturday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM

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FOR THE FALL FANATIC MacKenzie-Childs’ Harvest Glow Pumpkin Cluster dresses up autumn with stripes, checks and warm hues. Available at Forsythe Jewelers

FOR THE TABLESCAPE STYLIST Handmade in Tuscany, the Al Fresco Green Salad Plate brings hand-painted botanicals to the table. Available at Maison & Cambren

FOR THE ISLAND SOUL Driftwood palms and a radiant sun bring natural texture and island charm indoors. Available at Coastal Home

FOR THE MAHJONG ENTHUSIAST Custom tile, rack, mat and accessory combinations make game night personal. Available at Gifted

FOR THE ONE WHO HAS EVERYTHING Hand-applied gold leaf and distinctive legs turn these cast-metal bowls into sculptural treasures. Available at Marsh on the May

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BRIDAL GUIDE

Lowcountry ever after

First off, congratulations. Not just on getting engaged, but on choosing the Lowcountry for your big day. With golden marshes, moss-draped oaks, sweeping waterfronts and unmistakable Southern charm, few places know how to set the scene for a celebration quite like this one. Of course, even paradise takes a little planning. That’s where we come in. In this special Lowcountry Wedding section, we look ahead to the trends shaping weddings in 2027 and share local inspiration for creating a celebration that feels entirely your own. From laid-back vows by the water to elegant affairs beneath the oaks, consider this your starting point for planning something beautiful, memorable and unmistakably Lowcountry. Here’s to love — and a celebration worthy of it.

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©GOLDENBROOK PHOTOGRAPHY

weddings

©TYLER MACKENZIE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Celebrate your love story in unparalleled style with our exquisite luxury wedding venues, including the oceanfront coastal vibes of the Dunes House and the beautifully renovated Veranda at Arthur ills, oﬀering sweeping golf course views with a stunning sunset backdrop that truly showcases the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. Our award-winning Catering & Events team is dedicated to transforming your vision into an unforgettable experience, with customizable catering menus and packages designed to suit any celebration — large or small, simple or sophisticated. Let our team personally guide you in curating the perfect menu for your wedding, rehearsal dinner, or special gathering. Paired with tailored accommodations, golf and other resort activities to enhance your guests’ stay, every detail is seamlessly crafted to create the event of your dreams.

855.758.2543 To request a proposal, visit PalmettoDunesEvents.com.

Just for you. From your first toast as newlyweds to the everyday dinners that follow, the pieces you choose now will become part of your shared story. At J. Banks In Residence, our wedding registry offers a curated collection of timeless tableware, elegant serving pieces, and coastal inspired accents that are perfect for building a home together. This wedding inspired table setting captures the beauty of Hilton Head living, blending gold flatware, woven textures, and fresh floral details. Whether you dream of a formal dining room or casual coastal gatherings, our team will help you select pieces you will love for years to come. Visit us at 35 Main Street and start your registry today.

jbanksdesign.com

weddings

Fall in love AUTUMN WEDDINGS (September-November)

There’s a reason fall is one of the Lowcountry’s most popular wedding seasons. As summer fades, temperatures become more comfortable, humidity begins to ease, and golden-hour light makes marshes and oak trees look even more romantic. The season lends itself beautifully to everything from rustic oyster roasts to elegant celebrations under the oaks.

Why couples love it Fall brings comfortable weather and a relaxed energy that makes outdoor celebrations especially inviting. • Comfortable weather for outdoor ceremonies • Lower humidity as the season progresses • Golden sunsets and flattering photo light • Fewer mosquitoes than peak summer • Oyster-roast season adds instant Lowcountry flavor

Things to consider Fall also overlaps with hurricane season and some of the Lowcountry’s busiest festival weekends, so flexibility and early reservations are important. • Atlantic hurricane season continues through Nov. 30 • September and October remain part of the active tropical-weather season • Popular festivals can put pressure on hotel rooms, restaurants and transportation • A solid rain and severe-weather backup plan is essential

©LISA STAFF

Dates to keep in mind

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• Labor Day weekend: Sept. 4-6, 2027 • Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival: Oct. 16-17, 2027 • Halloween weekend: Oct. 29-31, 2027 • Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival: Late October/early November • Thanksgiving week: Nov. 22-28, 2027

©LINDSAY MARIE

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A winter romance

COOL-SEASON WEDDINGS (December-February)

Winter shows off a quieter side of the Lowcountry. Holiday lights, fireplaces and candlelit tables bring instant atmosphere, while cooler weather makes indoor celebrations particularly inviting. For couples dreaming of something intimate, elegant and a little unexpected, winter can be a wonderful time to say “I do.”

Why couples love it Winter trades summer crowds and humidity for cooler days, cozy settings and, in some cases, greater flexibility with venues and vendors. • Potential for better off-season availability • Comfortable conditions for indoor and tented celebrations • Festive holiday décor in December • Cooler temperatures for formal attire • A quieter, more intimate feel

Thing to consider Lowcountry winters are relatively mild, but they are not always predictable. A warm afternoon can quickly give way to a chilly evening. • Temperatures can swing considerably • Earlier sunsets mean less natural light for late-afternoon ceremonies and photos • Outdoor celebrations may require heaters or an indoor backup • Christmas and New Year travel can increase demand and airfare

©LISA STAFF

Dates to keep in mind

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• Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival: Feb. 22-28, 2027 • Christmas/New Year holidays: Dec. 24, 2027-Jan. 2, 2028 • Super Bowl + Valentine’s weekend: Feb. 11-14, 2028 • Presidents Day weekend: Feb. 19-21, 2028

On location at Montage Palmetto Bluff

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weddings

A spring celebration

SPRINGTIME WEDDINGS (March-May)

©LISA STAFF

Spring is the Lowcountry dressed for a wedding. Azaleas burst into bloom, gardens come alive, and comfortable temperatures invite the party outdoors. For couples dreaming of colorful flowers, live oaks and an alfresco reception, this may be the season to beat.

Why couples love it Spring combines some of the area’s prettiest scenery with weather that is generally well suited to outdoor ceremonies and receptions. • Pleasant temperatures • Azaleas and other spring flowers in bloom • Lower humidity than summer • Beautiful natural settings for photography • Excellent weather for outdoor ceremonies and cocktail hours

©LISA STAFF

Things to consider

Dates to keep in mind • Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade: March 14, 2027 • Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival: March 25-April 4, 2027 • Easter weekend: March 26-28, 2027 • RBC Heritage: April 12-18, 2027 • Mother’s Day weekend: May 8-9, 2027 • Memorial Day weekend: May 29-31, 2027

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Beautiful weather attracts more than brides and grooms. Spring is a popular time to visit the Lowcountry, and several major events can create significant demand for accommodations. • Spring break and Easter travel can increase hotel demand • Pollen can be intense for guests with allergies • Popular spring Saturdays book quickly • Major events can affect traffic, restaurants and lodging

Call for an Appointment 1300 Fording Island Road, Bluffton SC Vickie Buckley 843.227.5929 • SeaquinsBallroom.com • 843.290.9637

weddings

A summer soirée

WARM-SEASON WEDDINGS ( June-August)

Summer weddings capture the Lowcountry at its most coastal. Think bare feet in the sand, waterfront cocktails, palmetto trees and sunsets stretching late into the evening. The atmosphere is carefree and vacation-ready — as long as you have a plan for the heat and bugs.

Why couples love it For couples who want their wedding to feel like a destination getaway, summer delivers classic coastal scenery and plenty of time to celebrate. • Beach and waterfront settings shine • Long daylight hours • Beautiful evening light • Guests can turn the wedding into a Lowcountry vacation • Made for coastal colors, local seafood and tropicalinspired details

Things to consider Heat, humidity and pop-up storms are part of a Lowcountry summer, making guest comfort and weather contingencies especially important. • High heat and humidity • Afternoon showers and thunderstorms • Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1 • Summer tourism can mean strong demand for accommodations • Midday outdoor ceremonies can be uncomfortable for guests

Dates to keep in mind ©LISA STAFF

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• Fourth of July weekend: July 2-5, 2027

WHERE YOUR FOREVER BEGINS Celebrate your love story with an unforgettable Hilton Head Island wedding at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa. We are redefining coastal hospitality, with a transformation that will include reimagined event spaces, refreshed culinary experiences, and thoughtful touches inspired by wellness, connection, and renewal. From breathtaking oceanfront venues and sweeping Atlantic views to exceptional service, we’re creating an even more extraordinary setting for your “I do.”

Photo Courtesy of Sarah Anne Photography

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa 2 Grasslawn Ave, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 • westinHHIweddings.com • 843.681.4000

weddings

The wedding forecast

WHAT’S IN, WHAT’S OUT AND WHAT’S NEXT FOR 2027

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue — and something that nobody else has already posted on Pinterest. If there is one rule for weddings in 2027, it might be that there are fewer rules. After years of picture-perfect tablescapes, meticulously coordinated details and ceremonies seemingly designed with the social-media carousel in mind, the wedding world is loosening its bow tie. Couples still want beautiful celebrations. They just increasingly want them to feel like their celebrations.

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©GOLDENBROOKPHOTOGRAPHY

Wedding planner Sunna Yassin, co-owner of Bash Please, summed up the shift to Who What Wear as “celebration over performance” and “atmosphere over decoration.” Industry forecasts from The Knot, Vogue, Bridebook and wedding professionals across the country point in much the same direction: smaller guest lists, bigger personalities, richer color, meaningful food, unconventional schedules and details that tell guests something about the people they came to celebrate. The Knot's latest research backs up that desire for individuality. Nearly 68 percent of couples say they want guests to feel as though they've never attended another wedding quite like theirs. So before you order 150 matching favors or start searching for the year's prescribed shade of bridesmaid dress, here's our forecast for what's headed down the aisle in 2027.

IN: A wedding that couldn't belong to anyone else Personalization isn't exactly new. Monogrammed cocktail napkins have been around for a while. What's changing is the depth of it. Instead of choosing a theme and applying it to everything, couples are building celebrations around their actual lives. A favorite restaurant inspires the menu. A place they traveled together becomes part of the stationery. Grandma's china appears at dinner. The after-party recreates the bar where they met. A signature cocktail comes with a story rather than simply a clever name. Vogue reports that planners are hearing the same request again and again from 2026 and 2027 couples: They want guests to leave knowing something new about them. OUT: Copy-and-paste Pinterest weddings. NEXT: Storytelling from the save-the-date through the final song.

©LISA STAFF

IN: Atmosphere over excess The next luxury wedding may not look particularly "luxurious" in the traditional sense. The industry is moving away from filling every available surface simply because it can. Instead, planners are putting money and attention into the places guests actually experience: exceptional food, flattering lighting, comfortable seating, great music and thoughtful hospitality. For 2027, Who What Wear's panel of wedding professionals predicts more restrained but purposeful design, with every element contributing to the mood. Lighting in particular is becoming part of the creative plan rather than an afterthought, changing throughout the evening to move a room from romantic dinner to dance floor. That philosophy works particularly well in the Lowcountry, where a live oak, tidal creek or water view doesn't need much help. OUT: Décor for décor's sake. NEXT: Weddings designed around how a space feels, not how much can fit inside it.

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weddings

Rings with a story

OUT: The engagement ring everyone else has. NEXT: Something nobody could mistake for anyone else’s.

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©LISA STAFF

After years dominated by ultra-white diamonds, delicate pavé bands and, more recently, enormous oval solitaires, couples are looking for something harder to duplicate. Antique-cut diamonds, chunky yellow-gold bands, bezel settings, east-west stones, sculptural shapes and warmer champagne, cognac and honey-colored diamonds are all gaining ground. Even the traditional engagement-ring-and-wedding-band pairing is being reconsidered. Some couples are choosing a single statement-making “one-and-done” ring to represent both the engagement and marriage, while others are designing unusual bands around vintage or highly personalized engagement rings. That doesn’t mean the classics are going anywhere. Traditional engagement rings and wedding bands remain a beautiful, timeless choice, particularly for couples who value simplicity, symbolism and a design they’ll love decades from now. The shift isn’t away from tradition so much as toward choosing what feels personal — whether that’s a classic solitaire and matching band or something entirely unexpected. And increasingly, the person wearing the ring is helping choose it. The Knot’s 2026 Real Weddings Study found that 79 percent of recipients participate in the selection process, while 88 percent of couples either customize or custom-design their ring. The broader movement in bridal jewelry is the same one reshaping weddings themselves: personality over conformity. A ring can be antique, newly made, inherited, lab-grown, colorful, chunky, imperfect, completely unconventional — or beautifully traditional. It just shouldn’t look as though an algorithm picked it.

©LISA STAFF

THE BIGGEST ENGAGEMENT-RING TREND MIGHT BE THE END OF THE ENGAGEMENT-RING TREND

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weddings

Wedding fashion, plural

IN: The more, the merrier

Multiple outfits continue to reshape bridal fashion, allowing the ceremony, reception and afterparty to have distinct personalities. But 2027 also brings an interesting countertrend: pieces with enough character to stand on their own.

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©LISA STAFF

WHY HAVE ONE WEDDING LOOK WHEN YOU CAN HAVEE THREE?

©LISA STAFF ©LISA STAFF

At New York Bridal Fashion Week, Vogue spotted lace nearly everywhere for Spring 2027, alongside draping, asymmetry and statement details. The Knot also identified muted color — butter yellow, dusty rose, light blue, pistachio and lilac among them — as a major direction. Vintage pieces and family heirlooms are getting mixed with contemporary fashion too, creating wardrobes that feel collected rather than prescribed. OUT: Believing there is only one way to look like a bride. NEXT: Fashion that changes with the party.

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weddings IN: Color walks down the aisle White will always have a place at the altar, but in 2027 it may have some company. Soft color is finding its way into bridal fashion, with butter yellow, blush, powder blue, pistachio and lilac appearing in dresses, accessories and wedding-party looks. Rather than replacing traditional white and ivory, these muted shades offer couples another way to make wedding fashion feel personal. For brides who want just a hint, the possibilities are even broader. Floral embroidery can scatter color across a veil or gown. A pale blue shoe can double as “something blue.” Colorful jewelry, ribbons, gloves and reception accessories can add personality without changing the traditional ceremony look. The trend also extends beyond the bride. Bridesmaids in tonal rather than identical dresses, patterned ties and pocket squares, colorful dinner jackets and coordinated accessories can create a wedding party that feels cohesive without looking overly matched. And traditionalists need not worry: classic white and ivory aren’t going anywhere. The point isn’t that bridal white is out. It’s that color is increasingly welcome at the wedding, too. OUT: Assuming bridal style has to be all white, all night. NEXT: A little color with your something blue.

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©LISA STAFF

Helping tie the knot for over fifty years.

Celebrating

50 Years

©LISA STAFF

We carry a large selection of engagement rings and wedding bands for men and women. We also have bridal mountings, bridal jewelry to be worn by the bride or groom, or the bridal party. We make custom jewelry as well.

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Flowers with breathing room

©LISA STAFF

THE FLOWER WALL MAY FINALLY GET A REST

IN: Floral architecture

©LISA STAFF

Yassin predicts florals will become more architectural in 2027, with designers thinking about scale, movement, shape and negative space rather than covering every surface in blooms. That could mean one sculptural installation instead of dozens of arrangements, a dramatic branch arching above a table or a collection of single-variety flowers that lets their form do the talking. Garden-inspired designs remain strong, but "garden" doesn't necessarily mean overflowing. Moss, branches, foliage and other natural materials can create drama without requiring thousands of flowers. OUT: Blooms everywhere simply because more must be better. NEXT: Flowers treated like sculpture.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: Wedding couple by Kathryn Ann Waller. Select floral designs by Amia Marcell VENUES: May River Manor (Bluffton, SC) and Benny’s Coastal Kitchen (Hilton Head Island, SC) • EVENT PLANNING: Annie Scott Events and Kelsey Allison Designs

Where the Lowcountry Meets Luxury. At Farmer Blue we don't just design flowers for special events, we compose immersive experiences that evoke place, season, and soul. Our blooms are grown in rhythm with the tide and the shifting seasons on our farm in Beaufort County, then transformed into floral designs that tell your story — intimately tied to the land, the light, and the moment you say, "I do." This is design, born of authenticity, crafted with intention, and curated for those who believe luxury is found in the details that cannot be replicated.

Luxury Blooms, Local Roots. Seasonal by Design. 116 Porches Hill Road, Seabrook, SC 908.938.6868 farmerblue.com

©LISA STAFF

weddings

Trending florals

©MELISSA GRISSOM PHOTOGRAPHY

IN: COLOR TAKES ROOT Wedding flowers are getting more colorful, and more interesting.

Instead of choosing a single “wedding color” and matching every bloom to it, couples are embracing layered palettes with shades that complement, contrast and occasionally surprise. Butter yellow can meet blush and burgundy. Lilac can mingle with rust. Peach can sit beside chocolate brown. Even monochromatic arrangements are becoming more nuanced, combining several shades of the same color for depth.

The result feels less like matching flowers to a swatch and more like composing a painting. OUT: Flowers matched perfectly to the bridesmaid dresses. NEXT: Palettes with a few surprises.

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Graceful Blooms Photos by Melissa Grissom Photography

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weddings

Registries for real life

THE WEDDING REGISTRY WAS ONCE FAIRLY PREDICTABLE: CHINA, CRYSTAL, SILVER, TOWELS, COOKWARE AND ENOUGH SMALL APPLIANCES TO FILL A KITCHEN. Today’s couples are rewriting the list. Many arrive at the altar with established homes, fully stocked kitchens and two households’ worth of belongings. Instead of starting from scratch, they’re using registries to upgrade what they already own, invest in pieces they’ll keep for decades and choose gifts that actually reflect how they live. That might mean exceptional cookware for the couple who loves to cook, beautiful glassware and serving pieces for frequent hosts, quality linens for a homebody pair or luggage for two people who would rather collect passport stamps than place settings. Honeymoon funds, experiences, group gifts and contributions toward bigger purchases also give guests more ways to give something meaningful. But the modern registry doesn’t have to mean clicking through a giant national website. Many of the Lowcountry’s top home, gift and specialty shops offer wedding registries with the best of both worlds: couples can visit in person, see and touch what they’re choosing and get guidance from people who know their products, while guests near and far can shop the registry online. That local connection can make the gifts themselves more personal, too. Distinctive tableware, original art, entertaining pieces and objects from local makers can become reminders not only of the wedding but of the place where the couple chose to celebrate it. For the things that do come wrapped, the philosophy is increasingly simple: fewer, better, more meaningful. A registry doesn’t need to be a checklist of what newlyweds are “supposed” to own. It should be a collection of things they’ll actually use, enjoy and perhaps still have around for anniversaries to come. The question is changing from “What are we supposed to register for?” to “What would make our life together better?” OUT: Registering by obligation. NEXT: Gifts chosen for the life you actually live.

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weddings

The deconstructed wedding

THE OLD RULES ARE GIVING WAY TO NEW TRADITIONS AS COUPLES RETHINK THE TIMELINE, RECEPTION AND WEDDING CAKE IN: Your day, your way

Ceremony. Cocktail hour. Dinner. Cake. First dance. Parent dances. Bouquet toss. Garter toss. Exit. Or not. Couples are dismantling the traditional timeline and keeping only the pieces they actually enjoy. The Knot calls it the "deconstructed wedding," while planners interviewed by Martha Stewart Weddings report longer cocktail hours, fewer forced formalities and receptions built around natural flow rather than a checklist. Dinner might come before vows. The first dance could happen during cocktail hour. Speeches might disappear. Cake might be served without anyone stopping the party to watch it being cut. The question is no longer "Aren't we supposed to do this?" It's "Do we actually want to?" OUT: Traditions performed out of obligation. NEXT: Keep the ones that mean something. Lose the rest.

©LISA STAFF

IN: The dinner party reception

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Long tables, passed platters, flickering candles, great wine and conversation are bringing the warmth of a dinner party to the wedding reception. Family-style dining and creative seating arrangements, from long tables and curves to intimate groupings, encourage guests to mingle and make the reception feel more personal. That doesn’t mean the ballroom is going anywhere. Hotels, resorts and traditional ballrooms remain fantastic and popular choices. The trend is less about the venue and more about the atmosphere: thoughtful seating, warm lighting, shared dishes and personal details can make any space feel intimate and inviting. OUT: One-size-fits-all reception design. NEXT: A seat at an unforgettable table.

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IN: Wedding cake with personality The wedding cake isn't going away. It's getting interesting. After seasons of enormous tiered showpieces and hyperspecific retro cakes, 2027 forecasts suggest attention is shifting from sheer size to artistry. Cake designers are playing with texture, sculptural forms, fashion-inspired ruffles and desserts designed for interaction. Some couples are going even further, turning dessert into a communal moment with grazing cakes, shared sweets or displays that invite guests to participate. In other words, the cake doesn't have to be six feet tall to make an entrance. OUT: Bigger simply for the sake of bigger. NEXT: Cake as edible art.

PARTIES BRIDAL LUNCHEONS REHEARSAL DINNERS OFF-SITE WEDDING

CATERING

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843.785.6272 Orleans Plaza . 37 New Orleans Road Hilton Head Island . SC NOVEMBER 2026 + LocalLifeSC.com

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Say “I do” with a view.

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Our waterfront locations offer a picture-perfect backdrop of shimmering waves and golden sunsets. Whether you're dreaming of a beautiful rehearsal dinner, an intimate ceremony or an unforgettable reception, our elegant venues blend timeless romance with refined coastal charm. We build packages tiered to accommodate any event, that include food, beverages, florals and music, along with experienced staff.

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weddings

A celebration worth remembering

FROM THE MENU TO THE MEMORIES, COUPLES ARE MAKING THEIR BIG DAY MORE PERSONAL THAN EVER IN: A feast for the senses

Chicken or fish? Neither, preferably. Food has moved from supporting actor to leading role. Vogue's experts describe food as part of a wedding's visual language, with sculptural presentations, abundant displays and interactive stations functioning as both dinner and décor. Family-style service also is finding new life as couples seek ways to make tables feel more communal. That's good news for Lowcountry weddings. Few destinations can tell their story more deliciously. An oyster roast can become the welcome party. Local shrimp can headline cocktail hour. A raw bar can double as a showpiece. Biscuits can arrive warm at the table. The late-night snack might be something guests first tasted on vacation here years ago. Rather than asking, "What do people serve at weddings?" couples increasingly are asking, "What do we love to eat?" OUT: The anonymous banquet meal.

And the biggest trend of 2027 is … Not caring quite so much about trends. That's the paradox running through almost every industry forecast. At the same time that wedding experts are identifying the colors, flowers, dresses and cakes that will define the coming year, couples are becoming less interested in following a prescribed formula. Bridebook calls whimsy the defining spirit of 2027: joyful, personal details taking the place of rigid formality. The Knot's research points toward couples rejecting traditions that don't fit them. Vogue's experts see celebrations becoming more personal, experiential and unexpected. And Yassin's prediction for Who What Wear may say it most simply: celebration over performance. That makes the Lowcountry particularly well suited to where weddings are heading. This is a place where the setting already provides a story: live oaks overhead, marsh grass glowing at sunset, oysters cracked open beside the water, boats passing in the distance and generations gathering around a table. The forecast for 2027: Less perfection. More personality. Fewer "musts." More meaning. And a very good chance of dancing.

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©LISA STAFF

NEXT: Menus with a sense of place.

with this ring We’re a charming, intimate venue— ideal for rehearsal dinners or small receptions. Our private event space is located on the beautiful south end of Hilton Head and oﬀers a cozy, inviting atmosphere. No deposit is required, and we’re happy to customize a menu to perfectly suit your vision. We provide full catering services tailored to your needs and are ready to serve beer, wine, and spirits. Oh, and coﬀee.

843.342.4800 www.carolinacoﬀeehhi.com 101 Pope Ave Hilton Head Island, SC For more information, please email Erika.waronasky@gmail.com

weddings

Lowcountry wedding checklist

©LISA STAFF

Planning a wedding in the Lowcountry comes with a few extra considerations. Along with the dress, flowers and cake, there are tides to check, hotel rooms to reserve, transportation to coordinate and, if you're celebrating outdoors, heat, humidity and tropical weather to plan around. Use this timeline as a starting point.

12-18 months before  Set the date  Set the budget  Build the guest list  Hire a wedding planner  Choose the venue  Make a weather Plan B  Consider wedding/event insurance  Reserve a hotel block

9-12 months before  Hire the photographer and videographer  Hire the caterer  Book the band or DJ  Book the florist and designer  Find the wedding attire  Plan the wedding weekend  Launch the wedding website

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6-9 months before  Send save-the-dates  Book guest transportation  Book hair and makeup  Create the registry  Plan the honeymoon  Choose the wedding party’s attire  Book rentals

Elegance and functionality. One sensible solution.

4-6 months before  Plan the rehearsal dinner or welcome party  Order invitations  Order the cake or desserts  Choose wedding rings  Finalize ceremony plans  Plan pre-wedding celebrations

2-4 months before  Check the tide and sunset  Handle beach permits and local requirements  Check sea-turtle-season requirements  Select wedding-party and family gifts  Plan the ceremony exit and reception send-off  Schedule alterations and beauty trials

1-2 months before  Get the marriage license  Finalize the menu and bar  Build the seating chart  Create the master timeline  Create the photography list  Confirm transportation and access  Revisit Plan B

Royal Restrooms offers an uncompromising restroom experience. Portable in design, permanent in feel. Each unit is fully self-contained, private, and climate-controlled, appointed with running water, elegant fixtures, and refined interior finishes. Whether gracing a wedding, an upscale festival, or a corporate gathering, Royal Restrooms brings comfort and sophistication to any setting.

1-2 weeks before  Give vendors the final head count  Confirm every vendor  Check the weather forecast  Pack an emergency kit  Prepare payments and gratuities  Pack important items separately

©LISA STAFF

After “I do”  Return rentals and borrowed items  Preserve the important pieces  Send thank-you notes  Order photos and albums  Get certified copies of the marriage record

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history

15-MINUTE HISTORY

A state of celebration

THE UNFORGETTABLE GATHERINGS, GRAND SPECTACLES AND LASTING TRADITIONS THAT BROUGHT SOUTH CAROLINIANS TOGETHER STORY BY RICHARD THOMAS Richard Thomas is an owner and guide for Hilton Head History Tours and is the author of Backwater Frontier: Beaufort Country, at the Forefront of American History.

©DISCOVER SOUTH CAROLINA

South Carolina knows how to celebrate. For more than two centuries, its biggest occasions have filled streets with parades, sent cannon fire across harbors and drawn enormous crowds for speeches, music, dancing, fireworks and spectacle. Long before the modern festival era, presidential visits, patriotic anniversaries, military commemorations and civic ceremonies gave communities a reason to gather and sometimes put themselves on the national stage. The celebrations that follow range from extraordinary one-time events to traditions that have lasted for generations. Some stand out for their crowds, others for their scale, historical significance or national impact. Together, they show how South Carolinians have marked history, expressed pride and found reasons to come together.

May 1791: George Washington’s visit to Charleston President George Washington’s week in Charleston occasioned one of South Carolina’s earliest great civic celebrations. He approached the city in a decorated presidential barge accompanied by more than 40 boats carrying musicians, singers and spectators. At Prioleau’s Wharf, an “innumerable concourse” of citizens greeted him as St. Michael’s bells rang and the Charleston Battalion of Artillery fired a federal salute. For nearly a week, the city celebrated with military reviews, triumphal arches, public dinners, concerts, balls, illuminations, cannon salutes and fireworks. More than 250 women attended one ball, while nearly 400 assembled for a City Hall concert. At a merchants’ dinner for more than 300 men, a harbor ship fired 13 guns after each of 16 toasts before an illuminated fireworks display. The spectacle established a pattern South Carolina celebrations would repeat for generations: processions, music, military display, elaborate meals, dancing and nighttime illumination.

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A PRESIDENTIAL PARDON During a 1791 visit to Hampton Plantation, George Washington recommended sparing this majestic live oak from the axe. More than two centuries later, the tree still stands beside the historic plantation house near McClellanville.

MONUMENT TO A MOMENT George Washington stands watch over Washington Square in Charleston, a reminder of the president’s celebrated 1791 visit to the city.

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A STOP IN HISTORY A historical marker in Cheraw identifies the Lafayette House, where the Marquis de Lafayette spent the night on March 6, 1825, during his celebrated journey through South Carolina.

March 1825: Lafayette’s South Carolina Farewell Tour The Marquis de Lafayette’s return to South Carolina became a traveling statewide celebration. The aging Revolutionary hero entered at Cheraw and traveled through Camden, Columbia and Charleston before continuing through the Lowcountry to Edisto and Beaufort. Communities decorated streets, formed military escorts, fired artillery, staged dinners and balls, and turned out crowds to see one of the Revolution’s last internationally famous survivors. Camden had Lafayette place the cornerstone in a memorial to his former comrade and friend, Baron de Kalb, while Charleston staged elaborate urban festivities. Instead of drawing South Carolinians to one location, Lafayette carried the spectacle across the state, giving communities along his route a chance to demonstrate their patriotism, gratitude and hospitality.

T H A N K F U L

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history March 18, 1825: Lafayette at Beaufort Expected that morning, Lafayette’s steamboat did not reach Beaufort until about 10:30 p.m. Yet the town was waiting. Thirteen guns were fired as the vessel arrived and the Beaufort Artillery and Volunteer Guards assembled to receive him. Lafayette, his family and accompanying military officers entered carriages escorted by town officials, while a procession led by music moved through town and beneath a triumphal floral arch to speeches, toasts and a grand ball held in the early morning hours. Exactly two centuries later, Beaufort recreated many elements of the reception during its 2025 Lafayette Bicentennial Celebration.

A TRADITION OF REMEMBRANCE Beaufort National Cemetery became the setting for one of the region’s largest Decoration Day gatherings after the Civil War.

July 4, 1862: Port Royal Fourth of July Freedom Celebration

March 21, 1865: Charleston’s Freedmen’s Jubilee

Approximately 1,000 formerly enslaved people gathered in Union-occupied Beaufort County for an Independence Day celebration six months before Camp Saxton’s famous Emancipation Day gathering. They ate hard bread, herring and molasses and spoke about freedom and the meaning of the Declaration of Independence. A contemporary account emphasized the extraordinary scene: people recently liberated from slavery celebrating July Fourth on South Carolina soil and being told the American flag and Declaration now belonged to them as well.

House on Bay Street welcomed the Marquis de Only weeks after Union forces occupied Lafayette during his celebrated 1825 visit to Beaufort. Charleston, African Americans organized an enormous “Jubilee of Freedom.” Contemporary reporting estimated that more than 10,000 people gathered, with more than 4,000 participating in the procession itself. The parade included the 21st U.S. Colored Troop Regiment, Black marines, clergy carrying Bibles, bands, tradesmen with the tools of their occupations and approximately From the 1870s into the 1,800 schoolchildren. Fifteen women dressed in 20th century, Decoration Day white represented the former slave states. A cart at Beaufort National Cemetery portrayed an enslaved family being sold at auction, became a major regional followed by a hearse carrying a coffin announcing Black gathering and freedom the death of slavery. Here, the people in the streets celebration. People arrived from were celebrating an event many had experienced the Sea Islands, Georgia and themselves: gaining freedom. beyond by steamboat, wagon, carriage and later railroad. Processions, bands, speeches, food, vendors and military displays accompanied the The jubilation became an enduring New Year’s decoration of Union soldiers’ Day tradition. During Reconstruction, thousands graves. The crowds could be of African American South Carolinians poured into extraordinary. In 1892, more Charleston for Emancipation Day. Brass bands, than 1,000 people arrived from schoolchildren, churches, labor organizations, Georgia alone. Contemporary civic clubs and uniformed Black National Guard reports estimated the companies filled the streets before crowds gathering might reach 20,000 gathered at White Point Garden for prayers, — more than five times speeches and readings of the Emancipation Beaufort’s population — and Proclamation. Similar celebrations developed across called it “the greatest crowd the state. Public Emancipation Day observances ever known at that place.” have continued in Charleston since 1866.

Jan. 1, 1863: Port Royal Emancipation Day Thousands of African Americans gathered at Camp Saxton near Beaufort for the reading of Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. Speeches, prayers, hymns and ceremony filled the program, but its most memorable moment reportedly came when members of the crowd spontaneously began singing “My Country, ’Tis of Thee.” Formerly enslaved people traveled considerable distances to participate, making Camp Saxton simultaneously a political event, religious observance, community gathering and celebration of freedom. The gathering also began South Carolina’s particularly strong tradition of celebrating Jan. 1 as Emancipation Day.

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LAFAYETTE SLEPT HERE The John Mark Verdier

1870s–1960s: Decoration Day at Beaufort National Cemetery

1866 onward: Charleston Emancipation Day

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Robert Schaefer, MD

Addison Wilson Jr., MD

Ted Samaddar, MD, MPH

Michael Wolverton, MD

Orthopedic surgery and sports medicine

Orthopedics and sports medicine

Orthopedic surgery, hand and upper extremity

Orthopedic surgery, hip/knee and revision specialist

As leaders in providing orthopedic services to the Lowcountry, we are proud to partner with Novant Health in further advancing the care we offer our community. At Novant Health, we offer dedicated support, personalized care and high-quality treatments our neighbors expect and deserve.

To schedule an appointment, call 843-682-7480 or scan the QR code to learn more.

Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine 8 Hospital Center Blvd., Suite 110, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 400 Buckwalter Place Blvd., Suite 2300, Bluffton, SC 29910 95 Sea Island Parkway, Suite 102, Beaufort, SC 29907 97 Sea Island Parkway, Suite 203, Beaufort, SC 29907 408 Jackson Avenue E, Hampton, SC 29924

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OUR FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED SURGEONS SPECIALIZE IN: • Complex reconstruction of the hand, wrist, elbow, knee, hip, ankle and shoulder • Adolescent orthopedics including fractures, ACL and sports related injuries • Robotic and CT guided total joint replacement • Fracture care • Arthritis of all stages • Platelet-rich plasma treatment

history

A SALUTE TO HISTORY Framed by palmettos and the Atlantic, Fort Moultrie stands as a reminder of the Revolutionary War victory that gave South Carolina one of its most cherished patriotic traditions.

June 28, 1876: Fort Moultrie Centennial A 100-gun salute opened the day as St. Michael’s bells rang throughout Charleston. Military companies gathered on Citadel Green, marched through the city and boarded steamers for Sullivan’s Island, where a huge tent sheltered the crowd at Fort Moultrie. The festivities helped shape what became the annual Carolina Day.

Oct. 5-7, 1880: Kings Mountain Centennial About 10,000 soldiers reportedly encamped on the grounds where organizers erected a 100foot observation tower equipped with a telescope. President Rutherford B. Hayes, his cabinet and the governors of every state were invited, Herbert Hoover though Hayes declined. Fifty years later President Herbert Hoover attended the 1930 sesquicentennial, becoming the first sitting president to take part in a Kings Mountain commemoration.

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STANDING TALL A bronze likeness of Revolutionary War hero Gen. Daniel Morgan rises above Morgan Square in downtown Spartanburg, honoring the commander whose victory at Cowpens became one of South Carolina’s defining moments of the war.

May 11, 1881: Cowpens Centennial at Spartanburg Military companies, music, speeches, commemorative poetry and civic receptions accompanied the unveiling of a monumental bronze statue of Gen. Daniel Morgan. Congressional representatives from different sections of the country participated, giving the celebration a national dimension only 16 years after the Civil War.

Wade Hampton

June 20, 1883: Camden Monument Celebration An estimated 8,000 people came for the monument unveiling, including at least 1,758 who arrived by train. Wade Hampton delivered the principal address, and more than 700 uniformed soldiers marched in the parade.

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Don’t Hesitate...Ken and Clay Are Just A Call Or Click Away! THE KEN OLIVER TEAM HONORS • Dunes Real Estate’s Top Producing Team for 2025 • Ranked #9 Team in the State of SC by Volume • Have Assisted Thousands of Buyers and Sellers • Island Residents since 1977 & 1994 Scan can here to check our 130 130+ 843.816.0167 Ken’s cell . Ken@Ken-Oliver.com

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CONNECTING GENEROSITY WITH COMMUNITY At Community Foundation of the Lowcountry (CFL), our knowledgeable team connects giving people with the causes and organizations that matter most to them. With over 550 charitable funds administered, including 15 residential community funds, CFL is proud to help individuals, families, and neighborhoods strengthen the place we all call home. As year-end giving season approaches, now is the perfect time to begin your philanthropic journey by establishing a charitable fund at CFL.

history 1869 onward: South Carolina State Fair in Columbia Agricultural fairs existed in the Lowcountry as early as the 1720s, and a statewide fair tradition began in 1869. Originally intended to improve agriculture and encourage industry, Fair Week later peaked on “Big Thursday” with the Carolina-Clemson football game and State Ball, turning the occasion into an unofficial state holiday.

1890s-1969: The Colored State Fair in Columbia Beginning in the 1890s, Columbia hosted an annual fair for Blacks, generally the week after the white fair. In a segregated society it became an important statewide Black social, agricultural and cultural gathering. The main State Fair integrated in 1965, while the separate Black fair continued until 1969.

To take the first step, contact CFL at 843-681-9100, visit cf-lowcountry.org, or scan the QR code.

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1901-02: South Carolina Interstate and West Indian Exposition Charleston created an entire temporary world’s-fair landscape for this extraordinary exposition. Known as the “Ivory City,” it featured monumental exhibition ECHOES OF THE PAST Weathered ruins halls, entertainment stand beneath oaks at Hampton Plantation concessions, State Historic Site, where centuries of transportation displays, Lowcountry history have inspired tales of gardens, agricultural and ghostly encounters and lingering spirits. industrial exhibits and other attractions. Theodore Roosevelt and Mark Twain were among the prominent visitors, and approximately 674,000 admissions were recorded during its run. The exposition was conceived as a way to promote Charleston as a modern commercial city and gateway to the Caribbean and Latin America. Parts of its landscape ultimately evolved into Hampton Park, leaving a remnant of South Carolina’s purpose-built festival city.

Supporting our local Veterans, Active-Duty Military, First Responders, and their families right here at home in the Lowcountry.

the

FAIR PLAY The Ferris wheel rises above the South Carolina State Fair where generations of fairgoers have gathered for rides, games, food and fun in the heart of Columbia.

BRAVE AT THE

Bluff

P R E S E N T E D BY O P E R AT I O N PAT R I OT S F O B

In memory of LtCol Adam L. Collier, USMC ONE DAY. TWO EVENTS. LOCAL GIVING. LOCAL IMPACT.

Oct. 7, 1930: Kings Mountain Sesquicentennial President Herbert Hoover’s presence helped draw an estimated 75,000 people to Kings Mountain. A 21-gun salute, enormous parade, military formations, bands, historical pageantry, airplane stunt flying and even football filled the celebration. The national attention also accelerated efforts to preserve Kings Mountain as a national military park. A TOWERING TRIBUTE Rising above Kings Mountain National Military Park near Blacksburg, this monument honors the Patriot victory of 1780, a pivotal Revolutionary War battle that generations later inspired massive anniversary celebrations at the historic site.

SPORTING CLAYS Tournament

OYSTER ROAST Dinner

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history March 1933: Camden Bicentennial and Carolina Cup Camden combined its bicentennial with a horse show, polo, golf, social events and the Carolina Cup steeplechase. Organizers prepared for a gallery of 20,000 or more at the Cup, but more than 10,000 additional spectators were said to attend. The celebration blended heritage, horses and tourism, foreshadowing the modern festival era.

©DISCOVER SOUTH CAROLINA

A LEAP THROUGH HISTORY Horses and jockeys soar over a hurdle during the 2024 Carolina Cup in Camden. The storied steeplechase debuted in 1930 and was part of Camden’s bicentennial festivities in 1933, helping establish the town as one of South Carolina’s premier equestrian destinations.

1940 onward: Sumter Iris Festival Sumter’s Iris Festival began with a happy accident. Businessman Hamilton Carr Bland planted Japanese irises around his pond, then ordered them removed when they failed to thrive. The discarded plants flourished along the water instead. Public fascination eventually inspired Iris Week in 1940, which developed around what became Swan Lake Iris Gardens. SWAN SONG Swans glide along the shoreline at Swan Lake Iris Gardens in Sumter, the only public park in the United States known to feature all eight recognized swan species. The 150-acre garden is also the picturesque home of Sumter’s annual Iris Festival over Memorial Day.

1962: The Ribaut Quadricentennial, Prologue to Freedom

1956 onward: Beaufort Water Festival Few celebrations capture Beaufort’s relationship with the water better. The first Water Festival in July 1956 featured sailboat races, a regatta ball, beauty pageant, parade, water-ski show and air show. It has since grown into a multiday community undertaking involving hundreds of volunteers, with concerts, sporting events, fireworks, boat parades, military participation and waterfront entertainment. Recent attendance has topped 70,000.

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MAKING WAVES A water-ski team takes its show to the Beaufort River during the Beaufort Water Festival, a summer tradition that turns the city’s waterfront into a stage for high-flying fun.

Beaufort County celebrated the 400th anniversary of Jean Ribaut’s 1562 arrival at Port Royal with Prologue to Freedom, historical theatrical performances, art exhibitions, historic-house tours, commemorative programs and memorabilia. Special silver medals were even prepared for President John F. Kennedy and French President Charles de Gaulle.

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Overlooking Spring Lake, wrapped by tranquil lagoons, across from a wooded preserve island, and positioned between the 16th green and 17th tee of the Country Club of Hilton Head, the setting is truly remarkable. Extensive updates blend sophisticated coastal design with warmth and character. Cathedral ceilings create an impressive arrival, while abundant windows draw in natural light and showcase the surrounding landscape. The coastal-inspired kitchen is a showpiece, featuring expansive cabinetry, a center island with prep sink, and built-in breakfast nook seating. The kitchen ﬂows seamlessly into an elegant dining area, creating a wonderful setting for everyday living and gatherings alike. The spacious primary suite is equally impressive, highlighted by dramatic ceilings, two walk-in closets, and separate bathrooms. Downstairs, an indoor pool creates a resort-like experience year-round. A three-car garage with additional storage rooms adds exceptional functionality.

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history

IMPROVING PATIENTS’ QUALITY OF LIFE

ONE SMILE AT A TIME Preventative Oral Care • Restorative Dentistry Cosmetic Enhancements Pearl AI Disease Detection Diagnostics

A Hilton Head Plantation Resident for over 25 years, Dr. Kowalyk is a proud Alum of MUSC College of Dental Medicine and Washington & Jefferson College Summa Cum Laude / Phi Beta Kappa.

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REFINING & MAINTAINING SMILES SINCE 1985 NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

A STADIUM-SIZED SALUTE Williams-Brice Stadium rises above Columbia, where football Saturdays usually command the spotlight. In 1975 the venue traded touchdowns for a star-studded patriotic spectacle honoring America’s approaching bicentennial.

Oct. 20, 1975: We the People: A Bicentennial Salute to America in Columbia More than 50,000 people filled Williams-Brice Stadium for South Carolina’s Bicentennial. Bob Hope, Minnie Pearl, Anita Bryant and NBC broadcaster Frank Blair appeared alongside people from South Carolina schools, colleges, civic organizations and government groups. By then, the courthouse square and town parade ground had given way to a football stadium as the stage for mass celebration.

2011: Beaufort’s Tricentennial Beaufort began its 300th birthday celebration on Dec. 31, 2010, with Founders’ Night, a musical journey through three centuries of local history led by Marlena Smalls and capped by fireworks. The formal birthday followed on Jan. 17, while the Water Festival, Gullah Festival, home tours, Shrimp Festival and other events carried tricentennial themes throughout 2011. More than 100,000 people were estimated to attend.

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AND THE TRADITION CONTINUES ...

©SPOLETOUSA.ORG

As large civic commemorations evolved into modern festivals, South Carolinians found new things to celebrate: music, flowers, crops and community traditions.

1977 onward: Spoleto Festival USA in Charleston

©DISCOVER SOUTH CAROLINA

Composer Gian Carlo Menotti selected Charleston for an American counterpart to his Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto, Italy. Since opening in 1977, opera, theater, dance, chamber music and visual art have taken over the historic city for several weeks each year. More than 60,000 tickets are sold annually, with tens of thousands of additional visitors attending.

CENTER STAGE Dancers take the stage outside Charleston City Hall during Spoleto Festival USA, a celebration of music, theater, dance and visual art that has transformed the Holy City into an international arts destination each spring since 1977.

NOVEMBER 2026 + LocalLifeSC.com

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1939 onward: Hampton County Watermelon Festival Established to promote the local watermelon harvest, the festival developed into what organizers describe as the world’s first and original watermelon festival and South Carolina’s oldest continuing festival of its kind. By 1993 it had expanded to eight days, with the Friday night street dance among its signature traditions. ONE IN A MELON A judge examines watermelons at the Hampton County Watermelon Festival, a summertime tradition dating back to 1939. What began as a celebration of the local harvest has grown into one of South Carolina’s longest-running festivals, with agricultural competitions, entertainment and plenty of hometown pride.

1941; revived 1970s onward: Summerville Flowertown Festival Summerville staged a fourday Azalea Festival in 1941 with dances, concerts, a parade and formal ball. The modern tradition emerged in the early 1970s around Azalea Park and became the Flowertown Festival, now filling downtown and the park with more than 200 vendors amid azaleas, wisteria and dogwood.

IN FULL BLOOM Brilliant azaleas frame a wooden footbridge in Summerville, where springtime color has helped inspire generations of garden celebrations and the town’s signature Flowertown Festival.

STRUT YOUR STUFF Okra takes center stage at the Irmo Okra Strut, a Midlands tradition that began in 1973 as a quirky fundraiser for a new library. What started with a few servings of fried okra has grown into a two-day celebration drawing tens of thousands of visitors for food, music and community fun.

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©DISCOVER SOUTH CAROLINA

1973 onward: Irmo Okra Strut This Midlands tradition began with a joke and a library fundraiser. Radio personality Gene McKay suggested Irmo’s mythical “Ancient Irmese” must have been a farming tribe that lived on okra, inspiring a small arts-and-crafts fundraiser complete with fried okra. Seven years and thousands of servings later, enough money had been raised to help establish Irmo’s first library. The Okra Strut now draws tens of thousands for two days of live music and festival activities. LL

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culture

Paul S. Zimmermann: The art of the turn STORY + PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLYN MALES

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©SUBMITTED

At first glance, this blue fluted piece with its scalloped edge could be mistaken for a ceramic gourd. Then I pick it up. Turning it between my fingers, I realize it’s lightweight and . . . wood. What I’m holding is part of an array of intriguing objects, the smaller ones nestled in a tilted bowl incised with dots with a wave of blue washing up from its bottom. The more I gaze at these organic forms, the more they remind me of underwater lifeforms. I will soon discover that, yes, this was exactly the idea behind master woodturner Paul S. Zimmermann’s new Coastal Collection, now at the Maye River Gallery. I wanted to know more. That’s how I find myself driving to Sun City to learn how Zimmermann crafts his work. First stop: his house, where he’s getting ready for an upcoming show. Here his finished works and works-in-progress are taking up half the dining room table, with an overflow on the pass-through leading to the kitchen and more atop a living room cabinet. “I have a tolerant wife,” he tells me with a grin. And tolerant in more ways than one, he adds, for his career in the Lutheran ministry resulted in moves to seven states over their 49 years of marriage. “You kind of feel like you’re in the military, being transferred so often,” he quips. Then in 2017 while vacationing in the Lowcountry, they discovered Bluffton. “I’d dragged Laura all over the country, so I said, 'You choose where we live.' She picked Sun City.”

Today their home is where he plans out his designs and draws the indexing lines for grooves, fluting, holes and decorative carvings on the surfaces of his wooden bowls, vases and vessels. Here is where he’ll also apply finishing layers of alcohol-based dyes and waxes. But the messier process of taking a chunk of a log and turning it into its final form? That takes place two miles away at the Sun City wood shop. We’ll head there in a few minutes, but first Zimmermann gives me a little background on how he went from the ministry (he’s still active in the Lutheran church) to honing his craft. “I’ve always liked doodling and art, but over the years I didn’t have time to spend on it,” he begins. “But when I got on the lathe at the wood shop here . . . Oh, it was wonderful! You can see a piece taking shape right in front of your eyes. And wood is flying everywhere! But it doesn’t mean that you’re just hogging off wood; it means you’re deliberately taking it off here and there. So you have a lot of control. But, if you don’t, you wind up with some pretty ugly pieces.”

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A turning point

A tour of the makerspace

“I started off like most new turners. ‘Oh, man, I’m getting good.' Then I went to an American Association of Woodworkers International Woodturning Symposium. It blew off my doors! I’ve never seen more incredible wood turnings in my life. I walked away humbled and inspired. So I started paying a lot of attention to shape and form because you can have gorgeous wood, but if you don’t have the right form, you’re just going to see it in a garage sale, thrift store or, worse, in someone’s garbage.” One of the things Zimmermann attributes to his artistic success is being part of a kindred group of souls. On our visit to the Sun City wood shop, I’ll not only see the tools of his trade but witness the camaraderie that inspires and buoys him. My guide, along with Zimmermann, will be Bob Bass, president of its woodworker and modelmakers’ guild.

At the shop Bob Bass hands me protective glasses and warns me to keep within the yellow-and-black hazard lines taped on the shop floor. We enter. I’d figured the makerspace would be large (after all, the club has a thousand members!), but my jaw drops when we step into its 9,000 square feet of floor space, with 2,600 more in the near future. My eyes take in the vast open space with its neat rows of table saws, routers, lathes and other machinery. But then we move beyond my field of vision to see large pegboards of hand tools and explore a series of areas and rooms stocked with power tools, lumber (rimmed with vertical planks of maple, ash, walnut and other fine woods), computers and 3D printers. There’s also a model train room and a track outside. Behind the building, storage shelves are stocked with logs from felled trees where Zimmermann sources some of his materials. Now we take a detour into an enclosed room at the end of a corridor. “The quiet room,” Bass announces. “It’s anything but, ” Zimmermann tosses back. The door opens, and it sounds as if a jet engine is providing background music. Here we find a sole woodworker watching a CNC router carve a 3D portrait of a bird into a wooden block. Impressive. But without ear protection, we don’t stay long.

‘Oh, man, I’m getting good.’ Then I went to an American Association of Woodworkers International Woodturning Symposium.”

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ELEVATES

“Quiet Sounds”

CamelliaArt P

Two Locations 1 3P

Hilton Head Island, SC 8 3 78 3 3 Bluffton, SC 103 8 3 7 7 3 30

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Storefront Events Weddings Parties

Create it. Shape it. Wear it. Love it

CUSTOM HAT BAR & EXPERIENCE 10C Johnston Way, Bluffton, SC 843.949.8126 BrimsOnTheBluff.com 194

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Once back amid the hum of machinery on the big workroom floor, I’m introduced to a member of the Wood Chicks. One of several clubs within the shop’s membership, this one is mostly women. She is guiding a slab of wood through a saw to make coasters. “That’s one of our safe table saws,” my guides tell me. These saws have mechanisms that stop immediately if they sense a finger or other body part getting too close to a blade. But where is all the sawdust? This place is spotless. I get my answer when we stroll over to an area where three students are learning to use lathes. Zimmermann points to the small piles of sawdust at their feet. Aha. But not for long, he tells me, as he points out the upright vacuum vents throughout the facility that “sweep up” the detritus into overhead metal conduits that deposit it into a big bin that gets dumped several times a day. Before we leave, Tim Draayom, who is teaching the lathe class, says, “The wood shop is a big laboratory for experimenting. The only limitation you have is your imagination.” Zimmermann and Bass nod in agreement, and that statement echoes through my mind as Zimmermann and I head back to his house for a closer look at his work. The Coastal Collection that I’d first seen at Maye River is just a small segment of the elegant wood pieces he’s turned out. There’s so much more: vases with curvy dark lines across them (courtesy of spalting, a natural process where fungi have stressed the wood), dark wooden “pots” that resemble ancient pottery and vessels with intricately carved patterns of leaf shapes. I leave thinking about fallen trees and logs, and all the possibilities. LL

See the collection What: Coastal Collection by Paul S. Zimmermann Where: Maye River Gallery, Bluffton Details: Stop into the gallery to see nature carved in wood by Paul S. Zimmermann. Turned, carved, dyed and waxed, these objects evolve into wonderfully organic forms with a coastal, almost underwater quality. MayeRiverGallery.com

Marsh Florist

Lowcountry Fine Art Photography MARGEAGIN @ GMAIL.COM

See this and other works at Gallery at Spa Montage at Montage Palmetto Bluff. See more at Four Corners Art Gallery, 1263B May River Road, Bluffton, 843.757.8185

culture

Feeding Gratitude I’m still here. Wake to that lagoon view every morning, feel lifted watching a snowy egret sweep across the water. I’m grateful the sun rises. For phone calls. Quiet texts about goings-on. Cards. Letters. Gentle reminders of love and friendship. Confederate jasmine’s fragrant perfume announcing spring. Two years. No hurricanes. The holiday table festooned in holly red & green.

16 Leamington Lane, Hilton Head Island OFFERED FOR $2,575,000 A pristinely maintained classic home in the private oceanfront, residential community of Leamington. Ascend the slate steps entry through double doors to a stunning multiple fairway view of the Arthur Hills Golf course. Designed with both comfort and style in mind, this 4-bedroom, 4.5 bath home features a bright, openconcept floor plan that seamlessly connects the great room, dining room, and kitchen - creating an inviting space ideal for everyday living and effortless entertaining. An abundance of storage throughout ensures practicality without compromising design. The entire 2+ garage level floor expands the entire footprint of the house.

A table of favorites & pass the butter, please. Telltale ridges on cranberry cylinders. A jello mold, untouched. Latticed fruit pie reduced to crumbs. Juicy burgers, crisp strudel even schnitzel with noodles & warm pecan pie with a scoop of ice cream, turkey & dressing. Anything fried. Family. Conversation. Recipes, the most valuable family heirloom. Nostalgia. Creativity & grandmother’s lasagna. The act of cultivation, table talk fruits & vegetables, livestock. A lifelong platform to nourish. — Hilton Head Pop-up Poets

The kitchen has tons of cabinets, granite countertops and island with cooktop, counter seating, work desk, subzero refrigerator and double ovens for immediate enjoyment and unlimited potential. The outstanding amenities that make Leamington so special are private beach club, newly renovated community pool with pool house, golf cart community and second private entrance for easy access to all of Hilton Head Island.

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LOCAL ART & POETRY

CLASSIC LEAMINGTON

99 Inverness Drive, Colleton River

163 Inverness Drive, Colleton River

Rare opportunity in Colleton River, Bluffton’s premier gated golf and waterfront community, with three exceptional courses: an 18-hole Pete Dye, an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus regarded among the game’s finest, and a 6-hole Bruce Borland executive Par 3. Golf is optional: a Lifestyle Membership offers clubhouse, dining, fitness, tennis, pickleball, pool, trails, and 7+ miles of waterfront without golf fees, alongside the Full golf Membership, both with voting rights.

Marsh-front luxury in gated Colleton River, styled like a design catalog. 163 Inverness Drive features white stucco, black-framed windows, and carriage-style garage doors around a paver motor court shaded by live oaks. Steel-framed glass doors open to a double-height great room with hand-hewn timber trusses, stone floors, and a balcony overlook. Walls of glass frame marsh views and fi ll the home with Lowcountry light.

Built three years ago by renowned builder Randy Jeffcoat, this mirror-image custom home sits on over an acre of marsh-front property with the last approved sea wall. The home offers 5 bedrooms, each en-suite, 5.5 baths, an office, a 4-car garage, and separate 2-car golf-cart garages. It’s smart-wired for sound, security, cameras, and lighting, with app-controlled HVAC and water heaters and room-by-room zoning. The gourmet kitchen is a showstopper: Sub-Zero appliances, a 42” Wolf range with griddle, three dishwashers, a wine refrigerator, a 10-foot one-of-a-kind quartzite countertop, inset cabinetry, walk-in pantry, back storage room, and elevator. The primary suite features a walk-in shower and Japanese soaking tub; the recreation room adds a wet bar with kegerator.

The chef ’s kitchen features a timber-beamed ceiling, terracotta-tone tile, two islands (one in butcher block), glass-front cabinetry, and a statement range hood, near a 1,000-bottle walk-in wine room. A private office has rich wood built-ins. Among 5 bedrooms and 6.5 baths, the primary suite offers sweeping marsh views and a spa-style bath with freestanding tub and walk-in shower. Each guest bedroom has its own bath. Upstairs, a timber-vaulted loft overlooks the great room, and a second-floor family room suits movie nights or guests. A mudroom, laundry room, and 2.5-car garage simplify everyday living. Outside, a covered loggia with stone fireplace flows to a summer kitchen, pool, and dining terrace overlooking miles of marsh and open water.

Outside, unwind by the pool and hot tub or entertain on IPE decking beneath a pet-friendly Super Screen porch. A community dock with kayak storage and deep-water slips offers ocean access. Schedule your private showing today.

Colleton River, one of the Lowcountry’s most private communities, sits where the Colleton and Chechessee Rivers meet, with Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye golf courses. Old Town Bluffton, Hilton Head beaches, Beaufort, and Savannah are nearby. A rare, designer-finished marsh-front opportunity.

5 Bedrooms | 5.5 Baths | 6,441 SqFt | Marsh-front | Offered for $6,000,000

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eats

WHAT’S FRESH IN NOVEMBER?

Stalk of the town

BROCCOLINI IS LONG ON FLAVOR, SHORT ON PREP AND DELICIOUS FROM TOP TO BOTTOM STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

Broccolini has a bit of an identity problem. Depending on where you shop, this slender green vegetable might be labeled baby broccoli, tenderstem broccoli, sprouting broccoli or Broccolini, a trademarked name that has become its most familiar moniker. Whatever you call it, one thing it isn’t is immature broccoli. It’s a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli, combining familiar florets with long, tender stems and edible leaves. Sweeter and more delicate than traditional broccoli, it’s also remarkably easy to cook. Roast it, grill it, steam it, or toss it into a stirfry. This versatile green deserves an identity all its own. GREEN WITH ENVY Tender from floret to stem, broccolini needs little more than a hot pan, a squeeze of lemon and a shower of Parmesan to become a standout side. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor and quick cooking time make it an easy match for everything from weeknight dinners to holiday spreads.

History

Family matters

Despite its Italian-sounding name, broccolini traces its roots to Japan. In 1993 Sakata Seed Corp. developed the hybrid by crossing broccoli with Chinese broccoli, seeking desirable traits from both vegetables. Originally marketed as Asparation, a nod to its slender, asparagus-like stems, the vegetable eventually made its way to California for commercial production. By the late 1990s Broccolini had begun appearing in American produce aisles, where its more marketable name ultimately stuck.

Broccoli, broccolini and broccoli rabe may share a produce aisle and a few too many letters, but they’re distinctly different vegetables. Traditional broccoli has thick stalks topped by large, tightly packed florets. Broccolini has smaller florets, long tender stems and edible leaves. Broccoli rabe is the odd one out. Despite the name, it’s more closely related to turnips and has thinner stems, more leaves and a noticeably bitter flavor. Broccolini is milder and sweeter, with a slightly nutty flavor and stems tender enough to eat from top to bottom.

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“One of the Best Breakfasts on Hilton Head” SOUTHERN LIVING MAGAZINE

Here’s another reason to eat the whole stalk: broccolini packs plenty of nutrition into every part. Like other cruciferous vegetables, it provides fiber along with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C and K, potassium, calcium and iron. It also contains glucosinolates, naturally occurring plant compounds found in cruciferous vegetables. The bottom line is simple: eating broccolini is an easy and delicious way to put more vegetables, fiber and nutrients on your plate.

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Grow green November is a good time to have broccolini growing in the Lowcountry. It performs best as a cool-season crop, with seeds or transplants going into the garden from late summer through fall once the worst of the heat has passed. Choose a spot with at least six hours of sun each day and rich, well-draining soil amended with compost. Keep the soil consistently moist, and watch for common brassica pests such as cabbage worms and aphids. When the main central shoot reaches harvest size, cut it rather than pulling the entire plant. That encourages smaller side shoots to develop, extending the harvest through our mild winter and potentially into early spring.

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CRISP DECISION Broccolini’s tender stems and florets are especially good roasted until lightly browned, then finished with Parmesan and something crisp for contrast. High heat brings out the vegetable’s natural sweetness while preserving just enough bite.

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eats Best of the bunch Look for bright-green, firm stalks with fresh-looking cut ends and tightly closed florets. The leaves should be crisp and vibrant too. Skip bunches with yellowing or flowering buds, shriveled ends, soft stems or dark spots, all signs that the vegetable is past its prime. Broccolini is often sold in relatively small bunches, so grab an extra one if you’re feeding a crowd.

Keep it crisp Leave broccolini unwashed until you’re ready to use it, since excess moisture can speed spoilage. Refrigerate it loosely wrapped or in a produce bag in the crisper drawer. For longer storage, cut it into pieces, blanch briefly in boiling water, plunge it into an ice bath, drain thoroughly, and freeze in a single layer before transferring to freezer bags. For the best quality, use frozen broccolini within six to eight months. GROWING STRONG Broccolini thrives in cool weather, making fall an ideal growing season in the Lowcountry. Harvest the central shoot when the florets are tight and well formed, then leave the plant in place. Smaller side shoots can continue developing for additional harvests through the cooler months.

Broc & roll One of broccolini’s greatest advantages is how little prep it requires. The florets, leaves and slender stems are all edible, so there’s very little waste and no need to peel away a tough outer stalk. Rinse it under cold water just before cooking, trim any dry ends, and slice particularly thick stalks lengthwise so everything cooks evenly. That’s it. From floret to stem, this vegetable is ready for the pan.

Tender love Broccolini has a mild, slightly sweet and nutty flavor, with a subtle mustardy bite that mellows as it cooks. Its slender stems become tender quickly while retaining a satisfying bite, making it equally suited for sautéing, steaming, roasting and grilling. Pair it with garlic, ginger, sesame and soy sauce for Asian-inspired dishes; brighten it with lemon or lime; or finish it with Parmesan, feta or toasted nuts. It makes an easy green side for steak, lamb or salmon and slips effortlessly into pasta, pizza, salads, casseroles and stir-fries.

THE PERFECT SIDEKICK Mild, tender broccolini makes an easy partner for roasted or grilled meats. A quick steam or sauté keeps the stalks bright green and crisp-tender, while a sprinkle of red pepper adds a little heat.

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COOK IT: Sauté: Cook with olive oil or butter over medium-high heat for 6-10 minutes, depending on thickness. Steam: Steam for about 5 minutes, until bright green and tender-crisp. Roast: Toss with olive oil, and roast at 425 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Grill: Cook over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally.

MICHAEL ANTHONY’S CUCINA ITALIANA

Broccolini with crumbled Italian sausage

Chef Will Overacre of Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana pairs tender broccolini with savory Italian sausage, Parmesan and a splash of white wine for a rich, satisfying side. Broccoli rabe or rapini may be substituted for a more assertive, pleasantly bitter flavor. INGREDIENTS 8 ounces broccolini (about 3 cups) 2 1/2 ounces Italian sausage (about 1/3 cup), cooked and crumbled 6 tablespoons olive oil 1 cup grated Parmesan 1/4 cup white wine 1 ounce garlic (6-8 cloves), peeled and minced 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Fresh lemon juice, to taste Lemon wedges, for garnish DIRECTIONS [1] Blanch the broccolini until crisp-tender. Drain and set aside. [2] Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked sausage and garlic, and sauté for about 2 minutes. [3] Deglaze the pan with the white wine, scraping up any browned bits. [4] Add the Parmesan, stirring quickly until it combines with the wine and oil to create a sauce. [5] Add the blanched broccolini and cook for about 2 minutes, tossing to coat. [6] Finish with lemon juice and crushed red pepper flakes. Transfer to a serving dish, and garnish with lemon wedges.

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eats

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

LOCAL FLAVOR

A taste of celebration Recipes, party favorites and festive flavors made for sharing STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

Some of life’s best memories are made around the table. A beautiful cake marks a milestone, a bottle of Champagne turns dinner into an occasion, and a favorite dish brought to the party can become a tradition. This month Local Flavor celebrates the foods that make gatherings memorable, from a chocolate espresso cake layered with local history, to creative ways to cook with Champagne, party favorites from local chefs and the colorful world of sprinkles. Because when there’s something to celebrate, good food is always part of the story.

CHARLIE’S L’ETOILE VERTE

Chocolate Espresso Cake Some cakes mark more than an occasion. This show-stopping chocolate espresso cake serves up a slice of Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte history, bringing together recipes from three chefs who helped shape the beloved Hilton Head restaurant. Adapted for the home kitchen, it combines current chef Joe Galluzzi’s rich chocolate cake with former chef Josh Castillo’s espresso cream cheese frosting and a chocolate finish inspired by original owner Charlie Golson’s classic Pavé au Chocolat. The result is a delicious tribute to three eras of Charlie’s. Makes one 9-inch, three-layer cake. INGREDIENTS (chocolate cake) 4 cups all-purpose flour 4 cups granulated sugar 1 1/2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted 4 teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons salt 2 cups vegetable oil 2 cups whole milk 4 large eggs, beaten 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 cups hot brewed coffee DIRECTIONS [1] Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease three 9-inch round cake pans, and line the bottoms with parchment paper. [2] In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda and salt. [3] In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, milk, eggs and vanilla. [4] Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, and whisk until combined. Gradually add the hot coffee, and whisk until smooth, scraping the bottom and sides of the bowl to make sure no dry ingredients remain. The batter will be thin. [5] Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake on the center rack for 25-30 minutes, or until the centers spring back lightly when touched, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn the layers onto wire racks, and cool completely.

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FRENCH FLAIR Lowcountry Style

INGREDIENTS (espresso cream cheese frosting) 8 ounces unsalted butter, softened 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract Pinch of salt 1 1/2 teaspoons Kahlúa DIRECTIONS [1] In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. [2] Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing on low and scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. [3] Add the espresso powder, vanilla, salt and Kahlúa. Beat until smooth and fluffy. If the frosting becomes too soft to work with, refrigerate it briefly before assembling the cake.

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INGREDIENTS (chocolate topping) 8 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped 2/3 cup heavy cream DIRECTIONS [1] Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl. [2] Heat the cream just until steaming, then pour it over the chocolate. Let stand for 2-3 minutes. [3] Stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. [4] Let the ganache cool until thickened but still pourable. ASSEMBLY [1] Place one completely cooled cake layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread an even layer of espresso cream cheese frosting over the top. Add the second layer and repeat, then top with the third cake layer. [2] Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it into an even coat. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes, or until the frosting is firm. [3] Starting in the center, spoon the cooled ganache over the top. Gently spread it toward the edges with an offset spatula, allowing some to drip naturally down the sides. [4] Use the spatula or back of a spoon to create a loose spiral in the chocolate. If desired, garnish with crumbled chocolate cookies. [5] Refrigerate until set. Keep the finished cake refrigerated, then let it stand at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before slicing and serving. Editor’s note: This home-kitchen adaptation preserves Joe Galluzzi’s original chocolate cake while scaling down Josh Castillo’s espresso frosting and adapting Charlie Golson’s Pavé au Chocolat into the finish shown here.

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WHAT THE PROS LOVE Bring this to the party

What do the pros bring when they’re the guests? We asked local chefs and restaurant owners to share the dishes they reach for when it’s their turn to show up with something delicious.

CACTUS STREET CANTINA “Our shrimp ceviche. It’s fresh, light and always a hit.” — Lauren Jordan

NUNZIO RESTAURANT + BAR “Lasagna and meatballs. They travel well and are just as delicious the next day.” — Chef Nunzio Patruno

MICHAEL ANTHONY’S CUCINA ITALIANA “Homemade pizza or nachos. They’re both interactive, fun and easy for everyone to enjoy.” — Chef Will Overacre

Open daily from 7AM until 3PM 101 Pope Avenue, Coligny Plaza 843.342.4800

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PALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFE “Bloody Mary cherry tomatoes: pierced cherry tomatoes soaked in vodka and served with lemon pepper for dipping.” — Leslie Stewart

RUSSO’S FRESH SEAFOOD “Our house-cured smoked salmon dip. It travels well and pairs perfectly with a great wine and a nice cracker or crostini.” — Charles Russo

SIGNATURE DISH

Schnitzel happens

MIKE SIGLER REVISITS A CRISPY, SAVORY FAVORITE FROM HIS RESTAURANT DAYS

Every cook has that one recipe, the dish friends request and the one that always seems to make an appearance at gatherings. Each month Signature Dish shares a favorite recipe from someone in the local community, who then nominates the next cook in the chain. This month’s recipe comes from longtime Lowcountry chef and restaurateur Mike Sigler, nominated by Tonya Hudson. Sigler spent 51 years in professional kitchens, including 32 years in the Hilton Head and Bluffton restaurant scene. His career included culinary training in Sicily and executive-chef positions at major hotels before he and his wife, Shirley, opened Sigler’s Rotisserie & Seafood in Bluffton. The couple sold the restaurant and retired in 2019 after more than two decades in business.

MIKE SIGLER

Schnitzel à la Holstein For 23 years this hearty European classic was a favorite at Sigler’s Rotisserie and Seafood in Bluffton. Crisp breaded cutlets are topped with sunny-side-up eggs and anchovies, then finished with capers, parsley and a lemony pan sauce. Make it with veal, pork, chicken or turkey, and serve it as Mike did with mashed potatoes and vegetables, or pair it with spaetzle, noodles or braised red cabbage. INGREDIENTS (Serves 2) 4 (3-ounce) veal, pork, chicken or turkey cutlets 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 2 large eggs, beaten 1 cup plain breadcrumbs Clarified butter or neutral oil, for frying Juice of 1 lemon Capers, to taste Chopped fresh parsley, to taste 2 large eggs Anchovy fillets, to taste 1/2 lemon, for serving

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DIRECTIONS [1] Place the cutlets between sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper, and gently pound to an even thickness. [2] Place the flour, beaten eggs and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow dishes. Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off the excess, then dip in egg and coat evenly with breadcrumbs. [3] Heat a generous layer of clarified butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches if necessary, fry the cutlets until crisp and golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm. [4] Carefully drain the excess fat from the skillet. Add the lemon juice and capers, scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the parsley, and spoon the sauce over the schnitzel. [5] In a separate skillet, fry the remaining two eggs sunny-side up. Place one egg over each serving of schnitzel, and arrange the anchovy fillets on top. [6] Finish with additional capers and parsley, and serve with lemon for squeezing.

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SECRET INGREDIENT POP GOES THE PARTY Champagne may be synonymous with celebration, but the fun doesn’t stop after the cork flies. Once the glasses are filled, leftover bubbly can bring bright acidity and delicate flavor to sauces, seafood, risotto, desserts and even fried chicken. And if the bottle has gone flat, don’t pour it down the drain. As long as it still tastes fresh, it can still shine in the kitchen.

Pop, pour and cook

GIVE LEFTOVER CHAMPAGNE A SECOND ACT IN THE KITCHEN

Champagne may be made for raising a glass, but the celebration doesn’t have to end when the party does. That unfinished bottle can bring bright acidity, delicate fruit and a touch of elegance to everything from seafood and risotto to sauces and desserts. And if the bubbles are gone, no problem. The fizz may fade, but the flavor is still ready to party. In the kitchen, Champagne works much like dry white wine, with flavors that can range from citrus, apple and pear to floral, nutty and brioche-like notes. Cooking concentrates those flavors, while the wine’s acidity provides a welcome counterpoint to rich ingredients such as butter, cream and cheese. For savory dishes, brut is the most versatile choice. It’s dry enough to add brightness without making a dish noticeably sweet, and there’s no need to sacrifice an expensive vintage bottle to the saucepan. An affordable Champagne works beautifully, as do other dry sparkling wines such as Cava, Crémant or dry Prosecco. Save the special bottle for your glass. The key is not to overdo it. Add Champagne early enough for its flavors to mingle with the other ingredients, but avoid reducing it too aggressively, which can concentrate both acidity and sweetness. Butter, cream, stock and herbs can help bring everything into balance. Flat Champagne works just as well, provided it still smells fresh and tastes good.

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GUIDE

Sprinkle some fun

FROM JIMMIES TO SUGAR PEARLS, A GUIDE TO THE TINY TOPPINGS THAT MAKE EVERYTHING FEEL LIKE A CELEBRATION

OPEN WEDNESDAY BEFORE THANKSGIVING 12PM UNTIL 4PM CLOSED THANKSGIVING Farm, fresh local produce, flowers, meats, dairy, seafood, honey, baked goods, pastas, sweets, specialty foods, & prepared food to enjoy at the market or take home. Educational lectures, community outreach, kids activities, yoga, & more! Fun for the whole family!

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Nothing says celebration quite like sprinkles. They turn a plain cupcake into a birthday cupcake, dress up a sugar cookie and make an ordinary scoop of ice cream feel like an occasion. But the sprinkle aisle offers far more than those familiar rainbow rods. Some varieties hold up beautifully in the oven, while others bleed into batter, add serious crunch or are best saved for the finishing touch. Here’s how to pick the right sprinkle for the party.

JIMMIES The classic sprinkle. These long, skinny rods come in nearly every color imaginable and are among the most versatile choices for baking and decorating. Fold them into cake or cookie batter for colorful confetti throughout, or press them into fresh buttercream for a festive finish. Best for: Funfetti, cakes, cookies, cupcakes and ice cream NONPAREILS Tiny, round and extra crunchy, nonpareils are also known as “hundreds and thousands” in some parts of the world. They cling beautifully to melted chocolate and freshly dipped treats, but think twice before stirring them into wet batter or frosting. Their colors can bleed and create streaks. Best for: Chocolate-dipped treats, cake pops and truffles QUINS Think of quins as edible confetti. These flat sprinkles come in circles, stars, hearts, snowflakes and countless other shapes, making them an easy way to match a birthday, holiday or party theme. Press them into soft frosting just before serving for the cleanest look. Best for: Cupcakes, cakes and themed treats

SANDING SUGAR Made of coarse sugar crystals that catch the light, sanding sugar delivers sparkle without overwhelming a dessert. Sprinkle it over cookies, muffins or pastries before baking, or use it to add shimmer to frosting and other finished treats. Best for: Cookies, muffins and sparkling finishes

COARSE SUGAR Bigger crystals mean bigger crunch. Coarse sugar has larger grains than sanding sugar, giving baked goods a more pronounced, jewel-like finish. Sprinkle it over dough or pastry before it goes into the oven for a crisp, sparkling crust. Best for: Cookies, pie crusts, scones and muffins SUGAR PEARLS For celebrations that call for a little polish, sugar pearls provide an elegant alternative to rainbow sprinkles. Available in different sizes, colors and pearlescent finishes, they look especially striking when placed individually on cakes and cupcakes. Some varieties are quite hard, so a little goes a long way. Best for: Wedding cakes, anniversaries and elegant desserts DRAGÉES Shimmering silver and gold dragées bring instant glamour, but check the label before decorating. Some metallic varieties are sold for decorative purposes rather than consumption and can be hard on teeth. Always follow the package directions, and remove any decoration-only pieces before serving. Best for: Decorative showpieces SPRINKLE MIXES Can’t choose just one? Sprinkle mixes combine jimmies, quins, pearls, nonpareils and other decorations in complementary colors, shapes and sizes. The mix of textures creates an elaborate look with almost no effort, making them especially handy when you want maximum impact with minimal fuss. Best for: Birthday cakes, cupcakes, cookies and dessert tables

SPRINKLE SMARTER Going into the batter? Jimmies are the safest bet for that classic funfetti look. Fold them in gently and avoid overmixing, which can encourage colors to streak. Going into the oven? Sanding and coarse sugars are excellent for topping cookies, muffins, scones and pastries before baking. Save delicate shapes and decorative pearls for afterward. Covering a cake? Hold the cake over a rimmed baking sheet or wide bowl, then gently press handfuls of sprinkles into fresh butter cream. Whatever falls off can be collected and used again. Decorating with pearls or quins? Place larger pieces individually for better control and a more polished finish. Tweezers can make intricate designs easier. Coating cake pops or truffles? Dip first, then immediately roll or sprinkle before the chocolate or coating has time to set. Want an even scatter? Sprinkle from several inches above the dessert rather than dumping them on from close range. You’ll get more even coverage and fewer clumps. Saving some for the next celebration? Keep sprinkles tightly sealed in a cool, dark and dry place. Heat and moisture encourage clumping and color bleeding, while prolonged light can fade their colors.

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A taste of the times

Eight decades of party foods that captured the way America celebrated STORY BY LANCE HANLIN

Sometimes a party means gathering around a bubbling pot of cheese. Sometimes it means piercing a saucy meatball with a frilly toothpick. And sometimes it means arranging prosciutto into a rose and hoping nobody destroys it before the photo is taken. Party food has a way of marking time. Here’s a taste of how America celebrated, one iconic dish at a time.

1950s: Cheese balls Few foods capture mid-century entertaining quite like the cheese ball. An early recipe appeared in Virginia Safford’s 1944 cookbook, Food of My Friends, and the appetizer became a popular party food in the 1950s and ’60s. The formula was wonderfully simple: Blend soft cheese with seasonings, shape it into a ball, roll it in chopped nuts, surround it with crackers, and let guests dig in. Why it worked: Easy to make ahead, easy to share and impressive enough for company.

1960s: Fondue If there was ever a dish designed for a party, it was fondue. According to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, home fondue sets were “all the rage” by the 1960s, with kitchen stores even selling fondue-party kits. Guests gathered around a communal pot, spearing bread with long forks before plunging it into warm cheese. Dinner had become an activity. Why it worked: Food, conversation starter and entertainment all in one.

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1970s: Cocktail meatballs Nothing says retro cocktail party quite like a meatball on a toothpick — particularly one covered in grape jelly. The sweet-and-savory combination was already popular in the 1960s, when “Chafing Dish Meatballs,” made with grape jelly and chili sauce, appeared in the 1967 Elegant But Easy Cookbook. The trend rolled right into the next decade. By the end of the ’70s, recipes for cocktail meatballs were still appearing in major cookbooks, including the 1978 edition of Betty Crocker’s Cook Book. Why it worked: Bite-sized, inexpensive and almost impossible to eat just one.

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eats 1980s: Baked brie Baked brie brought a little drama to the 1980s appetizer table. Wrapped in puff pastry and baked until golden, it looked elaborate without demanding restaurant-level effort. Hosts could dress it up with fruit, nuts or preserves, then cut through the crisp pastry to reveal warm, creamy cheese inside. It looked sophisticated, served a crowd and made an entrance. Why it worked: Maximum elegance for surprisingly little effort.

homemade ice cream • shakes • banana splits hand tossed pizza • kid’s menu • burgers • hot dogs pasta • salads • sandwiches • salty dog classics exciting new dishes from Chef Akhil James

Just Off Palmetto Bay Road Near The Sea Pines Circle 1990s: Seven-layer dip By the ’90s one of America’s favorite party foods came piled high in a casserole dish: layers of beans, guacamole, sour cream, cheese and assorted toppings. The Washington Post traced an early print appearance to a 1981 issue of Family Circle, where it was called “Tex-Mex Dip.” Over the years the colorful layered dish became a natural fit for game days, potlucks and casual get-togethers. Nobody needed to know which fork to use. You just needed a sturdy tortilla chip. Why it worked: Colorful, customizable and built for a crowd.

2000s: Cupcake towers ORIGINAL HOME OF PELICAN PICTURES MOVIE THEATER: Circa 1978

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For generations the celebration cake was practically untouchable. Then cupcakes started climbing the ladder. New York’s Magnolia Bakery opened in 1996, and in 2000 it appeared on Sex and the City, giving cupcakes a major pop-culture moment. As the cupcake craze grew, the individually portioned treats found their way onto tiered stands at birthdays, showers and weddings, delivering the drama of a celebration cake without the slicing and serving. Why it worked: Cute, customizable and perfectly portioned.

2010s: Charcuterie boards Eventually the party platter became the party. Charcuterie itself is centuries old, but social media gave the traditional spread a distinctly modern makeover. By the late 2010s carefully styled boards of folded meats, cheeses, colorful fruit and artfully placed accompaniments had become centerpieces made almost as much for the camera as the crowd. Soon the concept expanded beyond traditional meat-and-cheese spreads to boards built around everything from breakfast foods to desserts. For all that arranging, though, the idea brings us right back to where we started: Put good food in the middle, invite people to gather around, and give them something worth celebrating. Why it worked: Beautiful, endlessly adaptable and designed for sharing.

2020s: Butter boards If charcuterie boards were made for Instagram, butter boards were born for TikTok. The idea went viral in 2022 after cookbook author Justine Doiron shared a video inspired by chef Joshua McFadden: softened butter spread across a board and scattered with herbs, seasonings and other toppings, ready for guests to swipe up with pieces of bread. Suddenly one of the simplest ingredients in the kitchen had become a party centerpiece. The craze was brief but perfectly captured a new era in entertaining, when a dish could go from social-media post to party table almost overnight. Why it works: Easy to customize, fun to share and practically made for social media.

2030s: The comeback? What will we serve at parties in the next decade? Our prediction: The future may taste a lot like the past. As food trends move faster and nostalgia keeps finding its way back to the table, yesterday’s party favorites could return with decidedly modern upgrades. Think dressed-up deviled eggs, elaborate cheese balls, sophisticated dips and cocktail snacks your grandparents might recognize — just plated better and photographed from above. After decades of chasing the next big thing, perhaps the ultimate party trick will be making something old feel new again. Why it might work: Nostalgic, comforting and proof that a good party food never really goes out of style.

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FROM SCRATCH

Beyond the board

HOMEMADE TOUCHES TURN A CLASSIC CHARCUTERIE SPREAD INTO SOMETHING WORTH CELEBRATING STORY + PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEA WILKINS

For a season of get-togethers, serve a spread worth gathering around. Charcuterie boards blend all of the kitchen’s indulgences into one timeless arrangement. Cured meats, fancy cheeses, sweet honey and fig jams all find their place. The best part? The customization options are limitless. To make her spread extra special, LOCAL Life publisher Lori Goodridge-Cribb adds homemade candied pecans and a whipped ricotta dip, a reminder that personal touches make parties memorable.

SWEET TIMING The secret to evenly candied pecans is a mid-bake stir. Bake them for 20 minutes, give them a good stir to redistribute the sugary coating, then return them to the oven for another 20 minutes. Let them cool completely before adding them to the spread.

Candied pecans INGREDIENTS 12 ounces pecans 1 egg white 1/2 cup white sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon salt

GATHER & GRAZE Made for fall gatherings, this abundant charcuterie board layers cured meats, cheeses, crackers, olives, dried fruit and fresh herbs with homemade candied pecans and whipped ricotta. Warm flavors, rich textures and plenty of variety make it an easy centerpiece for everything from game day to Thanksgiving.

DIRECTIONS [1] Heat oven to 300 degrees. Whisk egg white in a small mixing bowl until slightly frothy. Add pecans and whisked egg white to a large mixing bowl. Stir to evenly coat pecans. [2] Add white sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon and salt. Stir again until evenly coated. [3] Transfer pecans to a baking pan lined with parchment paper. Spread into a thin, even layer. Bake for 40 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let cool before serving.

WHIPPED RICOTTA

Watch & learn

Watch Lori prepare this festive charcuterie board on From Scratch, LOCAL Life's cooking series on YouTube @LocalLifeSC.

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EGG-CELLENT JOB To separate the egg yolk from the whites, Lori gently passes the yolk back and forth between two split shells, allowing the whites to drip into the bowl. Cracking under the pressure? Don’t worry — a little practice makes perfect.

INGREDIENTS 16 ounces whole-milk ricotta 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (Lori prefers Tuscan Herb from Hilton Head Olive Oils & Balsamics) 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste DIRECTIONS [1] Add ricotta, olive oil, red pepper flakes and salt to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and combined.

P R E S E N T S

From Scratch an online video cooking series featuring publisher Lori Goodridge-Cribb

COMPANY’S COMING. The table needs setting. The oven is warming up. And LOCAL Life publisher Lori Goodridge-Cribb is right there with you. Each month on From Scratch, Lori invites readers into her kitchen to share a seasonal recipe made for gathering. She believes the best memories happen around the table, and she is happy to show you exactly how she brings it all together. For November, she prepares a festive charcuterie board - the perfect celebration centerpiece.

Follow the recipe on the left, then head to LOCAL Life’s YouTube channel at @LocalLifeSC to watch the full episode. You will pick up smart kitchen shortcuts, simple hosting ideas and a few well-earned stories from Lori’s years of cooking for family, friends and anyone lucky enough to pull up a chair.

To see Lori in action and watch every episode of “From Scratch,” scan the QR code or visit LOCAL Life’s YouTube channel at @LocalLifeSC.

eats

news&notes RESTAURANT

FRESH FOOD + NOW OPEN + HOT PRODUCTS BY BAILEY GILLIAM

The dish

The Lowcountry food scene is giving us plenty of reasons to gather this month. Fresh pasta is rolling out in Habersham, espresso is hitting the road, a Hilton Head favorite is heading back to Bluffton, and one beloved Beaufort watering hole has poured its final drink. Here’s what’s happening around the region.

NOW OPEN

Faith’s Little Bake Shop SHELL POINT AREA, BEAUFORT

Sfoglia Ristorante Italiano HABERSHAM VILLAGE, BEAUFORT Fresh pasta has a new home in Habersham Village. Sfoglia Ristorante Italiano has opened in the former Miramare space at 27 Market, serving Southern Italian cuisine with pasta made to order, local seafood and artisan breads baked in-house. Award-winning chef Luca Caretti and general manager Cory Caretti remain at the helm. New offerings include lunch, Sunday brunch and a prix fixe chef’s tasting menu. Seasonal lunch and dinner menus will change monthly.

High Tea in the Lowcountry 1407 KING ST., BEAUFORT

Put the kettle on. High Tea in the Lowcountry is now open inside the King Street Arts Center in Beaufort’s Freedman Arts District, offering tea, coffee and fresh-baked treats. Guests can settle in for a sip and a snack, then browse a selection of merchandise inside the arts center.

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Sourdough Saturdays have arrived near Shell Point. Faith’s Little Bake Shop is a new home bakery specializing in sourdough creations and custom treats. A fresh menu drops each Wednesday, with orders available for Saturday pickup.

Mill-Hi Coffee

MOBILE ESPRESSO BAR The coffee shop is hitting the road. Mill-Hi Coffee is bringing its mobile espresso bar to weddings, corporate events, private parties, grand openings and other gatherings across the Southern Lowcountry. Bookings include unlimited espresso drinks during the service window, plus matcha, chai and hot chocolate, with custom specialty drinks available for individual events. The locally built cart serves Beaufort, Port Royal, Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Hardeeville and Yemassee.

COMING SOON Tin & Tallow

68 BLUFFTON ROAD, BLUFFTON Tin & Tallow is heading back to Bluffton. The Hilton Head restaurant is planning a second location in the former Mexicali Fresh space on Bluffton Road, between Sam’s Club and Goodwill, with hopes of opening in midJanuary. The family-friendly sports bar will serve lunch and dinner and feature a large screened-in patio with heaters and TVs. For the owners, who got their start with food-truck days in Bluffton, the expansion is a homecoming of sorts. Events and gatherings are also planned for the new location.

Bluffton Prosciutto Co.

4376 BLUFFTON PARKWAY, BLUFFTON Prosciutto, fresh mozzarella and Italian sandwiches are coming to Bluffton Parkway. Bluffton Prosciutto Co. is preparing to open with fine Italian meats and cheeses, housemade fresh mozzarella and prepared foods to go. Inspired by Epicurean 360°, the shop will combine an Italian specialty market with an easy stop for lunch or dinner to take home.

Dinner2Go Coastal Kitchen & Pantry 1210 SEASIDE ROAD, ST. HELENA ISLAND

Dinner2Go is putting down roots. The local meal service is preparing to open its first storefront, Dinner2Go Coastal Kitchen & Pantry, on St. Helena Island. The permanent space will expand on its lineup of fresh, locally inspired prepared foods, though exactly what will stock the pantry remains under wraps. The team is putting the finishing touches on the shop and plans to open soon.

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eats

NEWS & NOTES Allovours brings pecan butter to Bluffton Pecans are getting the peanut-butter treatment in Bluffton. Allovours specializes in handcrafted pecan butter and cookies, including a signature pairing of Maple Classic pecan butter with Medjool dates. Products are available online within South Carolina, at local farmers markets and through local delivery when available.

Michael Anthony’s earns global honors Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana has landed among the world’s best in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best. The Hilton Head restaurant was ranked the No. 2 fine-dining restaurant in the United States and No. 23 in the world, based on traveler ratings and reviews. Fewer than 1% of Tripadvisor’s 8 million listings receive the Best of the Best distinction.

Hemingway’s closes after 32 years A longtime Beaufort gathering place poured its final drink. Hemingway’s closed after 32 years, ending a run filled with celebrations, late nights and legendary hurricane parties, including occasions when floodwaters rose inside the bar and patrons kept the party going. Fittingly, Hemingway’s marked its final day with one last “Hurricane Party,” inviting generations of regulars back to raise a glass to the little bar that became a Beaufort institution.

Grounded Cafecito rolls out a new trailer Roasting Room unveils major revamp The Roasting Room has emerged from a summer-long overhaul with a new look and experience. The intimate Bluffton music venue now features new lighting, table and booth seating, an expanded bourbon display and tableside service. A new cocktail program and light menu of charcuterie, hummus, desserts, coffee, gelato and more round out the refresh, with additional food offerings planned.

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Grounded Cafecito is ready to roll. After nearly a year of serving Beaufort from its coffee stand at local events, the business debuted a mobile trailer affectionately dubbed “Big Mama” in early October. The larger setup allows the team to serve more events and customers around the area, with new drinks and products also in the works.

eats

TRY THESE

Lowcountry bites worth passing around

Good food has a way of turning time together into an occasion. Whether it’s dinner for two, a table full of friends or a few plates making the rounds, these Lowcountry bites deserve a spot on the table.

SLICE TO SHARE Pass this one around before it disappears. The Southern Peel layers black bean purée, fresh tomatillo and queso fresco onto a pizza finished with jalapeño, cilantro and lime crema. Bright, zesty and just messy enough to require another napkin.

SHUCK YEAH Saturday afternoons are for oysters at Coast at Sea Pines Beach Club. Fresh local clusters from Maggioni Oyster Company on St. Helena Island are roasted on-site and served by the water, with live music and drink specials from 1-4 p.m. The view comes free.

www.michael-anthonys.com

843.785.6272 Orleans Plaza . 37 New Orleans Road Hilton Head Island . SC 220

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PILE IT ON Nachos could never. Charbar Co. takes things further with bourbon BBQ chachos: hand-cut chips piled high with smoked pulled pork, bourbon barbecue sauce, pepper jack queso, pimento cheese, red pepper jelly and scallions. Sweet, smoky, cheesy and gloriously over the top.

STICK TOGETHER Good things come on skewers at Thai Smile Cuisine. Its guestfavorite chicken satay marinates overnight in a house-prepared blend of 10 ingredients before hitting the grill. Homemade peanut sauce and a refreshing Thai cucumber salad complete the plate.

SIMPLY REFINED Sometimes the best way to start is to keep things simple. Nunzio Restaurant + Bar serves its carpaccio di manzo tradizionale paper-thin and full of fresh Italian flavor, proving a starter doesn’t need to shout to get everyone’s attention.

SWEET HEAT Sweet, spicy, crispy. ELA’s On The Water hits all three with its honey lime shrimp, lightly fried until crisp outside and tender inside, then tossed in honeylime sriracha aioli. Consider ordering enough for the table.

SOUTHERN SWEETNESS Save room for this one. The Salty Dog gives a Southern favorite a South Beach spin with house-made beignets fried until golden, paired with strawberry cream cheese compote and finished with powdered sugar and fresh blueberries.

PASS THE BURRATA Few things bring a table together faster than burrata. Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar pairs the creamy centerpiece with sun-dried tomato pesto, heirloom tomato salad, toasted bread and balsamic reduction. Tear, dip, pass, repeat.

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libations

WWMD

What would Margaret drink? Margaret Pearman, a certified sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers, curates the acclaimed wine program at Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte. This month, she shares the right bubbles for everything from brunch with friends to a Champagne-worthy moment.

Pop the cork

Sparkling wines for every celebration BUILD YOUR OWN A mimosa bar makes an easy, festive centerpiece for celebrations large and small. Keep chilled bottles of prosecco or cava nearby, then let guests mix their own with orange, grapefruit or other fresh juices.

Brunch with friends: CAVA AND PROSECCO Spain’s cava and Italy’s prosecco are easy on the wallet and made for a leisurely brunch. Prosecco brings bright pear and peach notes, while cava, made using the same traditional method as Champagne, offers crisp acidity and fine bubbles that hold up beautifully in a mimosa. Add fresh orange juice, and let the conversation flow. Try this: Poggia Costa Prosecco, $15 retail

A big gathering: CRÉMANT DE BOURGOGNE Hosting a crowd? Burgundy’s crémant is made primarily from chardonnay and pinot noir using the traditional method, often at a fraction of the price of Champagne. That makes it an excellent choice when you want to pour generously. For Thanksgiving, a dry crémant offers bright fruit and lively acidity that can carry you from turkey and stuffing to tangy cranberry sauce. Crémants are also produced throughout France, including the Loire, Jura and Alsace, using grapes such as chenin blanc, cabernet franc, pinot gris, pinot blanc and gewürztraminer. Exploring different regions is an affordable way to discover just how varied French sparkling wine can be. Try this: Bailly-Lapierre Brut Rosé Crémant de Bourgogne, $35 retail

A moment for two: CHAMPAGNE Some occasions call for the real thing. Save Champagne for ringing in the new year, an anniversary, an engagement or simply a quiet toast with someone special. At your local wine shop, ask about grower Champagne: small-production wines made by the people who grow the grapes, often offering distinctive character and impressive craftsmanship. And don’t limit Champagne to the opening toast. Its acidity, bubbles and complexity make it wonderfully food-friendly, capable of carrying an entire meal. For sparkling wines made outside Champagne, look for bottles produced using the traditional method, in which the second fermentation takes place in the bottle. Try this: Pierre Moncuit Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Grand Cru, $95 retail

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Raise a glass

Two festive cocktails perfect for toasting occasions big, small and everything in between STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM Some moments call for a toast. Others call for a punch bowl. These festive recipes from Tito’s Handmade Vodka cover it all, whether you’re raising a flute to a milestone or filling glasses for a houseful of friends. One pairs bubbles and berries for an elegant celebratory sip; the other brings together apple, citrus and warming spice in a fall punch made for sharing. Pick your occasion, gather your people and raise a glass.

For the toast

Tito’s Berry Dazzler Bubbles make almost anything feel worth celebrating. Sparkling white wine gives this cocktail its fizz, raspberry liqueur adds a burst of berry sweetness and Tito’s Handmade Vodka gives it a little extra spirit. Finished with a fresh raspberry and rosemary sprig, it’s elegant enough for a milestone but easy enough to mix whenever the moment calls for a clink. INGREDIENTS 1 ounce Tito’s Handmade Vodka 3 ounces sparkling white wine 1/2 ounce raspberry liqueur 1 raspberry, for garnish 1 rosemary sprig, for garnish DIRECTIONS [1] Add the vodka, sparkling wine and raspberry liqueur to a flute. [2] Garnish with the raspberry and rosemary sprig.

For the party

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Tito’s Harvest Punch When the guest list grows, bring out the punch bowl. Made for a crowd, this autumnal punch combines cranberry-orange-infused Tito’s Handmade Vodka with prosecco, apple cider and ginger beer for a bubbly blend of crisp fruit and warming spice. Sliced apples, oranges and cinnamon sticks add seasonal flair, while cinnamon-sugar rims give every glass a festive finish. INGREDIENTS 8 ounces cranberry-orange-infused Tito’s Handmade Vodka 750 milliliters prosecco 1 gallon apple cider 24 ounces ginger beer 3 apples, sliced 2 oranges, sliced 8 cinnamon sticks Cinnamon sugar, for the rim DIRECTIONS [1] Add all ingredients to a large punch bowl. [2] Stir gently, then serve in cinnamon sugar-rimmed glasses. Pro tip: Let guests add ice to their glasses to keep the punch from becoming watered down.

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Arts & Culture

How to Train Your Dragon Jr. When: Times vary, Nov. 20-22 Where: USCB Center for the Arts Details: Follow Hiccup and Toothless on a musical adventure filled with dragons, daring discoveries and an unlikely friendship that changes everything. uscbcenterforthearts.com

Young Frankenstein November Artist of the Month When: Times vary, Nov. 4-7 Where: FLOW Gallery + Workshop Details: Explore your creative side with featured artist Rachel Gardner during hands-on workshops in papier-mâché sculpture and nature-inspired ink drawing at Palmetto Bluff. palmettobluff.com

When: Times vary, now-Nov. 15 Where: May River Theatre Details: Mel Brooks’ hilarious musical follows Dr. Frederick Frankenstein to Transylvania, where he inherits his grandfather’s castle and reluctantly takes up the family business of bringing the dead back to life. mayrivertheatre.com

Fall Fine Art Show When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Nov. 14 Where: FLOW Gallery + Workshop Courtyard and Boathouse Lawn Details: Browse paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry and more from over 20 local artists at Palmetto Bluff’s Wilson Village. A portion of art sales benefits the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy. palmettobluff.com

Fine arts at HHCA Hilton Head Christian Academy students take the spotlight this November with a lineup of theatrical performances and artistic showcases, from the Peanuts gang’s musical adventures to an evening celebrating student creativity. hhca.org UPCOMING EVENTS Nov. 5 & 7: You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown Nov. 9: One Act Showcase Night Nov. 18: Evening of the Arts

Mark Boedges Artist Reception

Primary Trust When: Times vary, now-Nov. 8 Where: HHPS Main Street Theater Details: Lean Ensemble presents this Pulitzer Prize-winning play about Kenneth, a bookstore employee whose comfortable routine is upended when his workplace closes, forcing him to confront change, embrace friendship and discover new possibilities. leanensemble.org

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When: 5-7 p.m., Nov. 6 Where: The Red Piano Art Gallery Details: Meet artist Mark Boedges and explore his latest paintings during an evening of art, live piano music and an open wine bar at The Red Piano Art Gallery. redpianoartgallery.com

OTHER ARTS & CULTURE EVENTS Now-Nov. 13: Finding the Rhythm of Nature at the Art League of Hilton Head Gallery Now-Nov. 21: Between Tide & Sky at Four Corners Art Gallery Now-Jan. 23: Pasture to Palette at the Sea Pines Community Center Gallery Nov. 6-Dec. 31: The Best of Beaufort All Member Show at Beaufort Art Association Gallery Nov. 6: Fabulous Forgeries at Atelier Off Bay Nov. 11-March 30: Botanica at Coastal Discovery Museum Nov. 17-Dec. 31: Gallery of Gifts at the Art League of Hilton Head Gallery

The Nutcracker When: Times vary, Nov. 13-15 & 20-22 Where: Seahawk Cultural Center Details: Follow Clara into a world of dancing snowflakes, toy soldiers and Sugar Plum Fairies as Hilton Head Dance Theatre brings this beloved holiday ballet to the stage. hiltonheaddance.com

2026-2027 | 45th Season HILTON HEAD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

John Morris Russell, Music Director

Where Classical Meets Jazz. MARSALIS CONCERTO SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15 · 4:00 PM MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16 · 7:30 PM

John Morris Russell, conductor Bella Hristova, violin

The Lowcountry’s Holiday Tradition. HOLIDAY POPS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28 · 7:00 PM St. Gregory the Great Parish Life Center SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29 · 4:00 PM First Presbyterian Church MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30 · 7:30 PM First Presbyterian Church

John Morris Russell, conductor Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra Chorus Melinda Doolittle, vocalist hhso.org · 843.842.2055 Mana Takahashi, violin

happenings

Charity & Community Festival of Trees

2026 Crescendo

When: Nov. 20-Dec. 5 Where: Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa Details: Wander among creatively decorated Christmas trees and sparkling holiday displays at this festive fundraiser supporting Hilton Head Preparatory School’s tuition assistance program. hhprep.org

When: Times vary, now-Nov. 23 Where: Locations vary Details: Hilton Head Island’s annual celebration of arts and culture fills the calendar with live music, theater, art exhibitions, historical experiences, festivals and hands-on activities showcasing the island’s creative community. culturehhi.org

Beyond Expectations: Celebrating a Remarkable Season Holiday Kick-Off Community events at The Sea Pines Resort From a bonfire in the Forest Preserve to holiday festivities in Harbour Town, The Sea Pines Resort offers a full lineup of seasonal activities, live music and family fun. Find more at seapines.com. UPCOMING EVENTS Nov. 13: The Bonfire at Sea Pines Forest Preserve Nov. 20: Jazz Night at the Sea Pines Beach Club Nov. 27: 23rd Annual Fishing Tournament Nov. 27: Caramel Apple Festival Nov. 27: Gregg Russell Thanksgiving Concert Nov. 27-Jan. 1: Harbour Town Lights in Harbour Town

Magical Night on the May When: 5:30-8:30 p.m., Nov. 12 Where: Oyster Factory Park Details: Spend an evening on the May River with live music, dancing, fresh oysters, coastal cuisine, drinks and a lively auction. This waterfront fundraiser supports Hilton Head Christian Academy. hhca.org

Cocktails on the Coast When: 4-8 p.m., Nov. 7 Where: Poseidon Rooftop Details: Raise a glass for a good cause with cocktails, auction items and unique experiences benefiting SOAR Special Recreation and its programs for Special Olympics athletes and individuals with disabilities. soarspecialrecreation.org

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When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Nov. 14 Where: Arts Center of Coastal Carolina Details: Get into the holiday spirit with visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, live entertainment, hands-on crafts, food trucks and an art market filled with gifts from local makers. artshhi.com

When: 5-8 p.m., Nov. 10 Where: Poseidon Rooftop Details: Toast Hilton Head Island’s second-biggest sea turtle nesting season on record, with more than 400 nests recorded in 2026. The evening features light bites, conservation highlights and recognition of the volunteers who help protect the island’s nesting turtles. seaturtlepatrolhhi.org

OTHER CHARITY & COMMUNITY EVENTS Nov. 6-7: Hilton Head Island Oyster Festival, Shelter Cove Park and Lowcountry Celebration Park Nov. 7: Operation Patriots FOB Dinner for the Heroes, Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa Nov. 7: Kiwanis Club of Bluffton’s Music, Magic & Memories at Seaquins Ballroom Nov. 7: 29th Annual Family Oyster Roast at Live Oaks Park, Port Royal Nov. 7: Riverview Charter School’s 2nd Annual Boil for Bowls at Port Royal Sound Foundation Nov. 7: Toy Drive Kickoff at the Ice Cream Cone in Coligny Plaza Nov. 9: Bluffton Bold Beer and Cigar Festival at The Heyward House Nov. 10: Veterans Day Breakfast at Hilton Head Preparatory School Nov. 11: Beaufort County’s Annual Veterans Day Parade, starting at 900 Adventure St. in Beaufort Nov. 14: Renegade Paws Rescue Adoption Event at Petco Bluffton Nov. 14: Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade, Alder Lane Beach Access to Lowcountry Celebration Park Nov. 14: Fall Together Fest at Burton Wells Recreation Complex Nov. 14: Lowcountry Pride Festival at Live Oaks Park, Port Royal Nov. 18: Mirasol Health’s Harmonious: Music with a Mission at Sea Pines Grand Champions Ballroom Nov. 20-22: Beaufort Homes for the Holidays at the Islands of Beaufort Nov. 21: Herring Future of Hope’s Black & Gold Holiday Charity Gala at New Riverside Barn Nov. 26: Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner, Hudson's Seafood House on the Docks Nov. 27: Pawsitively Thankful Dog Adoption Event with Hilton Head Humane at Captain Woody’s Hilton Head

Holiday Lights Display When: Nov. 23-Jan. 3 Where: Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina Details: Take a waterfront stroll beneath more than 125,000 twinkling lights as Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina transforms into a festive display of colorful decorations and illuminated holiday scenes. sheltercovehiltonhead.com

Ride for Justice When: 5:30 p.m., Nov. 19 Where: Local Kollective Details: Clip in for a cause at this group cycling fundraiser benefiting Lowcountry Legal Volunteers, which provides free legal assistance to people in need throughout the region. lowcountrylegalvolunteers.org

The Brave at the Bluff When: Nov. 18 Where: Palmetto Bluff Shooting Club & Moreland Landing Details: Take aim for a worthy cause at a sporting clays tournament honoring veterans, active-duty military members and first responders. The day concludes with an oyster roast, dinner and live music along the May River, benefiting Operation Patriots FOB. opfob.org

There’s a lot to discover at Hilton Head Island public schools. Our five schools offer students unique programs and opportunities from early childhood through graduation, and now there’s even more to celebrate: Hilton Head Island High School has earned an Excellent rating on its latest state report card.

Beaufort County School District Showcase

November

Come meet our principals, explore your options, and see firsthand what they can offer your family. Want to see more? Sign up for a small group tour or schedule a private tour of the Hilton Head Island school you’re interested in attending. Scan the QR code to sign up for a tour.

6pm - 7:30pm at River Ridge Academy

BEAUFORTSCHOOLS.NET

happenings

Food & Drink IS COMIN’ TO

Tuscan Harvest Festival When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Nov. 5 Where: Le Cookery Details: Meet VIETRI master artisan Cristian Massaro and watch his artistry in action during a day of Italian-inspired shopping, live music, cocktails, small bites, demonstrations and special offers. lecookery.myshoplocal.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27

Hilton Head Olive Oils & Balsamics events Learn to make flavorful dressings, discover creative oil-and-vinegar pairings and pick up new recipes during interactive culinary classes featuring guided tastings and practical kitchen tips. hiltonheadoils.com UPCOMING EVENTS Appy Hour: Winter Salads: 2 p.m., Nov. 11, 20 & Dec. 2 Salad Dressing 101: 2 p.m., Nov. 12, 19 & Dec. 3 Appy Hour: Holiday Appetizers: 2 p.m., Nov. 18 & Dec. 4

LOC

Santa arrives at noon aboard a fire truck. Take photos at Neptune’s statue until 2:30 p.m.

12:00 noon - 2:30 p.m.

P SMA

11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Bounce houses & train rides around the marina!

Joseph Phelps Wine Dinner When: 6 p.m., Nov. 19 Where: Nunzio Restaurant + Bar Details: Discover the celebrated wines of Napa Valley’s Joseph Phelps Vineyards during a special dinner at Nunzio. Certified sommelier Tara Collins of Moët Hennessy introduces the featured selections and shares insights into the winery. nunziohhi.com

(additional cost)

All day.

Neighborhood Wine Dinner

Stroll around the marina & enjoy the Holiday lights & music!

When: 6 p.m., Nov. 18 Where: Nectar Farm Kitchen Old Town Bluffton Details: Explore the flavors of the Lowcountry through a six-course dinner featuring local seafood and seasonal ingredients, paired with natural, organic and biodynamic wines selected by Juicebox. nectarfarmkitchen.com

Gingerbread Cookie The first 300 kids visiting Santa will receive a gingerbread cookie! (Cookies are provided by Hilton Head Social Bakery)

Caymus Wine Dinner Special appearance by Santa’s Toymakers

FREE EVENT!

Bring a new unwrapped toy or canned items for the Deep Well Project

When: 6:30 p.m., Nov. 13 Where: The Harbour Town Clubhouse Details: Explore the rich, full-bodied wines of Napa Valley’s Caymus Vineyards during a multicourse dinner prepared by Executive Chef Sean Carroll, with wine pairings and a dessert finale from Executive Pastry Chef Iain Jones. seapines.com OTHER EVENTS Nov. 17: Tap Takeover at Fraser’s Tavern Thursdays: Pint Night at Fraser’s Tavern Saturdays: Oyster Roasts at Coast, Oceanfront Dining

Beni di Batasiolo Piemonte Wine Dinner Scan QR code to check for Event Updates

Located Hwy 278, mile marker 8, across from the Palmetto Dunes entrance. When using a GPS, please use 13 Harbourside Ln ShelterCoveHiltonHead.com/events-calendar/santa 228 LocalLifeSC.com + NOVEMBER 2026

When: 6-9 p.m., Nov. 19 Where: Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar Details: Discover the wines of Italy’s Piedmont region during an evening featuring Beni di Batasiolo selections, thoughtfully paired dishes and lively conversation. Tickets are $135 per person, including tax and gratuity. alexandersrestaurant.com

Oriental & Specialty Rug Washing Rain water is used in all processing for a softer feel.

happenings

Food & Drink Sommelier Smackdown When: 6 p.m., Nov. 12 Where: Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte Details: Put your palate to the test as two sommeliers go head-to-head in a wine-pairing showdown, inviting diners to blind taste competing selections with each course and vote for their favorites. charliesgreenstar.com

Get 50% Off Your Second Rug Cleaning with the Purchase of Your First Cleaning. (Rugs must be cleaned at the same time.)

Serving the Lowcountry since 1979 Beaufort •Hilton Head • Bluffton 843.592.6304 • 803.943.4416 LowcountryCleanCare.com

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SERG Culinary Cup 2026 When: Now-Nov. 12 Where: Locations vary Details: Watch rising local chefs put their creativity to the test in a four-week competition built around mystery ingredients. The culinary showdown culminates in a final event from 6-9 p.m. Nov. 12 at the USCB Center for the Arts. serggroup.com

OTHER FOOD & DRINK EVENTS Nov. 6: Prime Rib Night at Chef Frank’s Bistro in Beaufort Nov. 8: Barre to the Bar at Shellring Ale Works Nov. 11: Veterans Wine Dinner at Alfred’s Restaurant Nov. 12: The Art of Tiki Cocktail Class at Hilton Head Distillery Nov. 13: Autumn Tea at Kirks Mansion Nov. 14: Holiday Entertaining & Wine Pairings Class at Culinary Institute of the South Nov. 18: November Dinner with Chef Chelsea Sanchez at Kirks Mansion Nov. 18: Truffle Dinner with Damilano Winery at Radici Nov. 19: Knife Sharpening at Cassandra’s Kitchen Store Nov. 19: Cigar Night at Shellring Ale Works Nov. 19: Fall Into Cocktails Class at Hilton Head Distillery

WEEKLY FOOD EVENTS Tuesdays: Battles & Bread at Wine Time Bluffton Tuesdays: Tasty Tuesdays at Rollers Wine & Spirits Wednesdays: Pasta Night at Wine Time Bluffton Wednesdays: Wine Tasting at Wine Time Washington Square Wednesdays & Thursdays: Outside Hilton Head Happy Hour Cruises at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina Thursdays: Thirsty Thursdays at Rollers Wine & Spirits Thursdays: Jazz on the Patio at Okan Thursdays: Featured Wine Tasting at Wine Time Bluffton Fridays: Friday Uncorked at Windhorse Gallery & Marketplace Sundays: Mimosas & Melodies at Windhorse Gallery & Marketplace Sundays: Lowcountry Tailgate Party at Skull Creek Boathouse

holiday 26 line up local life full.qxp_Layout 1 10/7/26 8:15 AM Page 1

Enjoy the Holidays OLD

TOWN BLUFFTON ShopOldTownBluffton.com

HOLIDAY ART WALK Friday November 13th 3 - 7 pm It’s the perfect time to start your holiday gift shopping!

MALL-TERNATIVE Friday November 28th All Day SHOP LOCAL ~ SHOP SMALL Find deals and savings all day long at your favorite local Bluffton merchants. Visit www.shopoldtownbluffton.com for more info!

4th ANNUAL JINGLE STROLL Thursday December 3rd 4 - 7 pm Find treats for every age and a few just for yourself. Be on the lookout for Santa!

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING Friday December 4th 5:30-8:30 pm Tree Lighting at Martin Family Park, then Santa’s Workshop and a Movie

CHRISTMAS PARADE Saturday December 5th 10 am - 12 noon 55th annual parade through Historic Old Town Bluffton

The Old Town Merchants will be collecting donations for Blessing Box Project throughout November

happenings

Markets & Shopping

Holiday Market When: Times vary, Nov. 2-Dec. 23 Where: SOBA Gallery Details: Find something special for everyone on your list at the Society of Bluffton Artists' annual Holiday Market, featuring original artwork, handmade gifts and festive creations by local artists. sobagallery.com

Holiday Art Walk When: Noon-5:30 p.m., Nov. 13 Where: Old Town Bluffton Details: Explore Old Town Bluffton's galleries and boutiques during an afternoon of art, music, refreshments and holiday shopping. Meet local artists, discover original works and browse gifts along the historic streets. shopoldtownbluffton.com OTHER EVENTS Nov. 27: Black Friday Mall-ternative in Old Town Bluffton

Small Business Saturday and Santa When: Nov. 28 Where: Village at Wexford Details: Support local shops while treating the kids to story time and photos with Santa at Island Child. Follow the festive Gingerbread Trail through the village, collecting goodies from participating merchants along the way. villageatwexford.com

J. Banks In Residence Holiday Open House When: 4-7 p.m., Nov. 12 Where: J. Banks In Residence Details: Browse home furnishings, decorative accessories and seasonal arrivals while gathering inspiration for holiday entertaining and gift-giving. The evening features festive refreshments and a chance to explore the latest offerings from J. Banks. jbanksdesign.com

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FARMERS AND ART MARKETS From farm-fresh produce and local seafood to handmade crafts and original art, these Lowcountry markets offer plenty of reasons to shop local. Bluffton Farmers Market: Noon-4 p.m., Thursdays, 68 Boundary St. Farmers Market at Coastal Discovery Museum: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesdays, Coastal Discovery Museum Port Royal Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-noon, Saturdays, Naval Heritage Park Beaufort First Friday: 5-8 p.m., first Friday of each month, downtown Beaufort Hilton Head Community Market: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Saturdays, Shelter Cove Community Park Habersham Farmers Market: 4-7 p.m., third Friday of each month, Habersham Marketplace in Beaufort Side Hustle Brewing Co. Farmers Market: 1-5 p.m., third Sunday of each month, Side Hustle Brewing Co. Bluffton Farm & Flea: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Fridays & Saturdays, 172 Bluffton Road Forsyth Farmers' Market: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturdays, Savannah Palmetto Bluff Fall Market: Nov. 21, Palmetto Bluff Farm Mistletoe Market: Times vary, Nov. 19-22, King Street Arts Center & Tabby Place

OTHER MARKETS & SHOPPING EVENTS Nov. 7: 4th Annual Holiday Market on Paris Avenue in Port Royal Nov. 14: Holiday Craft & Bake Sale at Christ Lutheran Church Nov. 20 & 23: Palmetto Bluff Conservancy Pop-Up Shop at the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy Classroom Nov. 24: Museum Store Holiday Sale at Coastal Discovery Museum Nov. 27: Black Friday Shopping Adventure at Tanger Outlets Hilton Head 1 & 2

JB Star Trunk Show When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Nov. 20 Where: Forsythe Jewelers Details: Explore an exclusive selection of handcrafted fine jewelry from JB Star, known for its diamond engagement rings, wedding bands and statement pieces featuring exceptional gemstones. forsythejewelers.biz

Santa and Shopping Day When: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Nov. 27 Where: Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina Details: Santa arrives by fire truck at noon and stays until 2:30 p.m. for photos near the Neptune Statue. Families can enjoy holiday music, bounce houses, train rides and waterfront shopping, with gingerbread cookie kits for the first 300 children. Bring a toy or canned goods for the Deep Well Project. sheltercovehiltonhead.com

GENERATIONS G ENERA TIONS B BEFORE US S E FOR EU AT EF RE

A Cu C Culture ultltu ul tur urere Living LiLivivin ing ng Th hro rou oug ugh gh Us U TThrough FEBRUARY 1-28, 1 28 2027

For an entir entire re m month, onth, eexperience xperience tthe he ffood, ood, aart, rt, m music usic hhistory istory and stories that keep our Gullah culture alive on HIlton Head Island.

Come for an event. Discover the Culture. Visit GullahCelebration.org

Santa is coming to the Village!

ISLAND CHILD PATIO

STORY TIME 1:45pm PICTURES 2-4pm

Saturday November 28th

happenings

Lectures & Classes Lantern Making Workshop

Beaufort County School District Showcase

When: 5-7 p.m., Nov. 10-11 Where: Carolina Coffee & Crumbs Details: Make your own glowing creation for the Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade during these free, family-friendly workshops. Materials are provided, or bring your own supplies. No registration is required. colignyplaza.com

When: 6-7:30 p.m., Nov. 17 Where: River Ridge Academy Details: Meet principals and explore public school options across Bluffton and Hilton Head Island, from elementary through high school. Learn about academic programs, school choice and opportunities available to local students. beaufortschools.net

SOBA art classes Pick up a paintbrush and explore your creative side with the Society of Bluffton Artists. This month's workshops focus on watercolor techniques, from coastal landscapes to colorful fall scenes. Find more classes at sobagallery.com. UPCOMING CLASSES Nov. 5: Along the Dunes Watercolor Workshop Nov. 12: Dancing in the Breeze Watercolor Workshop Nov. 16: Brusho Fall Watercolor Class OTHER EVENTS Nov. 20: Book Signing with Local Authors Lynn and Cele Seldon at SOBA Gallery Art School

Lunch with Authors When: Noon, Nov. 17 Where: Belfair Clubhouse Details: Join best-selling authors Ariel Lawhon and Marybeth Mayhew Whalen for lunch and a literary conversation about their latest novels. Lawhon's The Pirate Queen follows a legendary Irish heroine, while Whalen's Handle with Care explores the lives of four women caught in a hostage crisis. Books will be available for purchase and signing. uscbcenterforthearts.com

OTHER LECTURES & CLASSES

GINGERBREAD TRAIL! Kids are given a Village map to follow for goodies! 2-4pm

VILLAGE at WEXFORD OR villageatwexford.com

LocalLifeSC.com + NOVEMBER 2026 1000 Wm. Hilton Parkway | Hilton Head Island 234

LIBRARIES FOR KIDS INTERNATIONAL Nov. 16: Author Series with Annelore Harrell at The Roasting Room HILTON HEAD AUDUBON Nov. 19: Life on the Edge: Shorebirds and the Rhythm of the Tides at Coastal Discovery Museum BEAUFORT COUNTY LIBRARY Nov. 12: Plant It Forward Plant Exchange at Bluffton Branch Nov. 18: The Library Travel Guide: Thailand at Hilton Head Branch PAT CONROY LITERARY CENTER Nov. 12: Author Event with Ellery Adams ART LEAGUE OF HILTON HEAD Nov. 15: Make & Take: Peace Doves in Stained Glass Nov. 22: Make, Bake & Take: Polymer Clay Jewelry WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL HILTON HEAD EVENTS Nov. 13: Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Joby Warrick on international terrorism and Syria Dec. 4: John McKay on the future of U.S.-Canada relations HISTORIC PORT ROYAL FOUNDATION Nov. 19: Third Thursday at Live Oaks Park COASTAL DISCOVERY MUSEUM Nov. 3, 10 & 17: Legends & Luminaries Speaker Series Nov. 3, 5, 7, 9 & 12: Lantern workshops KIRKS MANSION Nov. 11: The Kirks Mansion Styled Shoot: 10 Stations, 10 Creators Nov. 15: Holiday Countdown Calendar Workshop Nov. 18: Fall Centerpiece Workshop with Flowers by Katie Ford HILTON HEAD ISLAND & BLUFFTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Nov. 12: 2026 Economic Summit at Culinary Institute of the South MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF Nov. 28: Holiday Tablescapes with interior designer and author Leslie May

happenings

presents

Music & Entertainment

HHSO events The Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra brings classical virtuosity and holiday cheer to November. Violinist Bella Hristova performs Wynton Marsalis' genre-blending concerto, while Holiday Pops features conductor John Morris Russell, American Idol favorite Melinda Doolittle, the HHSO Chorus and award-winning young violinist Mana Takahashi. hhso.org UPCOMING EVENTS Bella Hristova, Marsalis Concerto: 4 p.m., Nov. 15 & 7:30 p.m., Nov. 16, First Presbyterian Church Holiday Pops Bluffton: 7 p.m., Nov. 28, St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church Holiday Pops: 4 p.m., Nov. 29 & 7:30 p.m., Nov. 30, First Presbyterian Church

Jazz for All Ages When: Nov. 14-15 Where: Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island Details: Swing through two days of jazz celebrating Tony Bennett and Ray Charles. Saturday features Joe Gransden's Big Band and rising star Harper Krimm, while Sunday's lineup includes the Jazz Legacy Project AllStars and vocalist Cynthia Utterbach. Proceeds support the Junior Jazz Foundation's music education programs. jazzforallages.com

Honky Tonk Chicks When: 7:30 p.m., Nov. 5 & 6 Where: Arts Center of Coastal Carolina Details: Kick up your heels with this high-energy female vocal trio performing country classics and today's biggest hits. Expect powerhouse harmonies, playful banter, singalongs and audience participation line dancing. artshhi.com

SEAHAWK CULTURAL CENTER

NOV. 13, 14, 20 & 21 AT 7:30 NOV. 15 & 22 AT 2:30 HiltonHeadDance.com hhdancetheatre

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hiltonheaddance hiltonheadd

OTHER MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS Nov. 6: Beaufort Lions Club Salute to Service Concert at USCB Center for the Arts Nov. 8: Fripp Island Friends of Music presents pianist Alexandre Dossin at Fripp Island Community Center Nov. 13: Bluffton Music Series at Buckwalter Place Park Nov. 15: USCB Chamber Music Series Opening Concert Nov. 15: The Mary Green Chorale presents WE the PEOPLE at Lowcountry Presbyterian Church Nov. 21: Rhythms of the Lowcountry at Christ Lutheran Church Hall Nov. 21: Slowcountry Songwriter Session at Slowcountry BBQ Nov. 28: Candlelight Concert: Holiday Music Under the Oaks at Kirks Mansion

THE SUN WILL COME OUT TOMORROW

Sports & Outdoors NOVEMBER RACES Before the holiday feasting begins, lace up for some fresh air and friendly competition. From waterfront courses to beachside 5Ks, November offers plenty of opportunities to get moving, give back and earn that extra slice of pie. UPCOMING RACES Swing Bridge Run: 8 a.m., Nov. 7, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park Tunnel to Towers 5K: 8:30 a.m., Nov. 8, Rose Hill Plantation Pre-Turkey Day Sea Pines Dolphin Dash 5K: 9 a.m., Nov. 25, Sea Pines Beach Club Palmetto Dunes Turtle Trot 5K: 8 a.m., Nov. 26, Dunes House Hilton Head Turkey Trot 5K: 8 a.m., Nov. 26, Skull Creek Boathouse parking lot Historic Bluffton 5K Turkey Chase: 8 a.m., Nov. 26, Oyster Factory Park Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry Turkey Trot 5K: 8 a.m., Nov. 26, downtown Beaufort Palmetto Bluff Turkey Trot: 9 a.m., Nov. 26, Palmetto Bluff

Thanksgiving with Stan Smith When: 9 a.m.-noon, Nov. 26-28 Where: Sea Pines Racquet Club Details: Spend Thanksgiving weekend on the court with tennis legend Stan Smith, a former world No. 1 and Wimbledon and U.S. Open champion. This adults-only experience offers the chance to learn from Smith and get to know him. Cost is $379; reservations are required. Call 843-363-4495. seapines.com

Hilton Head Torch Relay for MUSC Children's Hospital When: 4 p.m., Nov. 7 (check-in at 3 p.m.) Where: Marriott's SurfWatch Details: Walk for a cause at this community fundraiser supporting MUSC Children's Hospital. Participants can enjoy a fireside after-party following the walk, with festivities continuing until 8 p.m. torchrelay.donordrive.com

Palmetto Bluff Conservancy events Discover the wild side of Palmetto Bluff with guided nature walks, behind-the-scenes explorations and wildlife programs. This month's outings range from a stroll through River Road Preserve to a tour of conservation sites along Whitehouse Road, plus a virtual presentation about white-tailed deer. palmettobluff.com/conservation UPCOMING EVENTS Meandering Naturalist: 9-11 a.m., Nov. 9. Explore River Road Preserve with Conservancy staff, who will identify plants and wildlife along the way. Explore PBC: Road to Anson: 9-11:30 a.m., Nov. 13. Visit research and landmanagement sites along Whitehouse Road, ending with views of the New River. Brown Bag Lunch: White-Tailed Deer: Noon-1 p.m., Nov. 18. Join science and education manager Aaron Palmieri for a virtual discussion of deer behavior, life history and population management.

Stan Smith Thanksgiving Exhibition and Happy Hour When: 2:30-4:30 p.m., Nov. 27 Where: Sea Pines Racquet Club Details: Watch former world No. 1 Stan Smith host a professional tennis exhibition, pick up a few tips and enjoy complimentary refreshments and raffle prizes. Admission is free; guests are encouraged to bring canned goods for the Deep Well Project. seapines.com

OTHER SPORTS & OUTDOORS EVENTS Nov. 14: Ride & Refine Dressage Test Schooling at Longfield Stables, Palmetto Bluff Nov. 28: Palm Trees & Pistons Car Show at Nala's Beach Bar & Grill

DEC 2 – JAN 3

TICKETS ON SALE NOV. 4!

Celebrate the season with the heart, hope, and classic optimism that only the Tony Award-winning classic, Annie, can deliver. Packed with the legendary tunes you love to sing along with such as “Tomorrow,” “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” and so many more! Secure your tickets now for the ultimate holiday family outing!

NOV 5 & 6 | 2 SHOWS! Get ready to Boot Scootin’ Boogie the night away with this powerhouse female vocal trio, performing the greatest, most beloved hits in Country Music from today and yesterday.

Nov 14

1 1 :3 0 A M – 2

:3 0 P M

TOW N'S OFFIC IA L HO LI DAY K ICKO F F

Join us for a celebratory kick-off to the holiday season! Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Rudolph are part of the festivities! Lowcountry groups will perform, including the cast of Annie. Get a jump on shopping at our Art Market featuring amazing local vendors. Refreshments include an array of food truck fare and more!

DEC 15 | 2 SHOWS!

A brand-new holiday concert from Broadway & multiscreen star Cheyenne Jackson. Expect classic favorites, candid storytelling, and a night of unforgettable holiday magic.

NOVEMBER 2026 + LocalLifeSC.com

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NOV 19-JAN 3 SAVANNAH EVENTS From Broadway favorites and cultural festivals to holiday markets and a glittering boat parade, Savannah offers plenty of reasons to make the trip across the river.

NEXT YEAR STARTS NOW. 2027–28 applications are now open for Kindergarten through Grade 12 at Hilton Head Christian Academy.

What starts here changes everything. Find out more.

HHCA.ORG/INQUIRE

Now-Nov. 7: Mamma Mia! at the Historic Savannah Theatre Nov. 5-7: Community in Conversation: Carrying African American Basket Traditions at the Jepson Center and Telfair Academy Nov. 6-8: Savannah Craft Festival at the Savannah Convention Center Nov. 6-8: River Street Art Market along Savannah's waterfront Nov. 7: Fall Arts Festival, featuring local makers, live music and hands-on activities, at the Davenport House Museum Nov. 7: 5th annual Vintage Bike Show at Savannah Harley-Davidson Nov. 8: 37th Annual Shalom Y'all Jewish Food Festival at Monterey Square Nov. 13-15: 37th Annual Christmas Made in the South at the Savannah Convention Center Nov. 13-15: Foodees Food and Culture Festival at Tanger Outlets in Pooler Nov. 13-29: Fiddler on the Roof at the Historic Savannah Theatre Nov. 14: Savannah Philharmonic presents Brahms' A German Requiem at the Lucas Theatre for the Arts Nov. 19: A Magical Cirque Christmas at Johnny Mercer Theatre Nov. 19-Jan. 3: Savannah Christmas Market annd the Festival of Trees at Plant Riverside District Nov. 21: Oyster Roast for a Reason at the UGA Aquarium Nov. 25: Jersey Boys at Johnny Mercer Theatre Nov. 28: Holiday Kickoff at Eastern Wharf Nov. 28: 25th Annual Savannah Lighted Boat Parade along the Savannah River Nov. 28: South Carolina Ballet presents The Nutcracker at Johnny Mercer Theatre

SAVE THE DATE December brings holiday performances, festive markets, tree lightings and beloved Lowcountry traditions. Mark your calendar for these upcoming events. Dec. 2: Opening Night of Annie at Arts Center of Coastal Carolina Dec. 3: Opening Night of Sylvia at Coligny Theatre Dec. 3: Dessert Cocktails Class at Hilton Head Distillery Dec. 3: Jingle Stroll through Old Town Bluffton Dec. 4: Winter Wonderland at Shelter Cove Community Park Dec. 4: Town of Bluffton Christmas Tree Lighting at Martin Family Park Dec. 4: Historic Beaufort Foundation Holiday Open House at John Mark Verdier House Museum Dec. 4: Night on the Town in downtown Beaufort Dec. 5: Boys & Girls Clubs of the Lowcountry Candy Cane Classic Golf, Tennis & Pickleball Tournament at Sea Pines Country Club Dec. 5: Marco Bicego Fine Jewelry Trunk Show at Forsythe Jewelers Dec. 5: Coastal Christmas at Beach House Hilton Head Dec. 5: The Siren's Song Choir presents Vintervärlden at All Saints Episcopal Church Dec. 5: Light Up the Night Boat Parade at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort Dec. 5: 55th Annual Bluffton Christmas Parade through historic Bluffton

TO SUBMIT AN EVENT Have an upcoming event? It could be featured for free in LOCAL Life’s Happenings section. Visit locallifesc.com, click “Contact Us” and send us the event name, date, time, location, a brief description, a website link and photos, if available.

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#partingshot

Come to the table

Tabby ruins, Spring Island

At a Spring Island pop-up dinner near the tabby ruins, neighbors filled the seats around a seemingly endless table beneath live oaks and strands of glowing lights. Photographer Lisa Staff captured the ingredients of a memorable Lowcountry evening: good food, good company and a beautiful place to share them. Around a table like this, the reason for celebrating almost seems beside the point. Sometimes being together is reason enough. HIT US WITH YOUR BEST SHOT Have you taken a great local photo? Send your high-res image to info@wearelocallife.com or upload it at locallifesc.com/partingshot. 240

LocalLifeSC.com + NOVEMBER 2026