2022 ® WE D D I N G S A N D R O M A N C E - M E E T T H E B E S T CrowdTested, Community Approved DANIEL ISLAND | ISLE OF PALMS | SULLIVAN’S ISLAND JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
Talkingwith Mount Pleasant’s Leaders Our Goals for the Future Meet Your 2022 Best Of
Mount PleasantWinners Fairy Tales Come True Wedding Inspiration A Storied Community History of Scanlonville
2 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com T&T : 100 CHURCH ST. | MT. PLEASANT, SC 29464 | 8 4 3 . 3 5 2 . 9 5 1 0 | tavernandtab l e . com RED’S : 98 CHURCH ST. | MT. PLEASANT, SC 29464 | 843 . 388 .0003 | reds i cehouse . com ® WINNER BEST RESTAURANT TO TAKE AN OUT-OF-TOWN GUEST “ONE OF THE BEST” BEST PLACE TO DINE OUTDOORS BEST BAR — INSIDE BEST SERVER & BARTENDER IN MT. P (CHRIS GLENN - CHRIS CONDON) WINNER BEST PLACE TO DINE OUTDOORS BEST BAR — OUTSIDE BEST PET-FRIENDLY BUSINESS “ONE OF THE BEST” BEST SEAFOOD THANK YOU FOR VOTING US “The Best “ Best of Best of
3 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com HISTORIC CHARLESTON ISLE OF PALMS WILD DUNES FOLLY BEACH SULLIVANS ISLAND MT. PLEASANT KIAWAH / SEABROOK Real Estate 800.476.8444 • Vacation Rentals 888.250.8730 • dunesproperties.com Since 1989, Nobody knows the Charleston Coast better® Thank You for Another Record-Breaking Year! In 2021, we had our best year yet! And that’s no small accomplishment when you consider we’ve been in business for 33 years. Our agents are not only an experienced group of local experts, they are also your neighbors. With five offices and agents specializing in each community, we can help you find the perfect place to work, play, live, and grow.
4 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com (843) 2421204 Palms Blvd, Is www.Lowcountryco @lowcount Luxury Ext Interior Rem Exterior S Decks James Hardie Siding Painting Te W Interior S Kitchen Flooring Home Additions Meet Our Interio Katherine Brickell and Alex are experts in guiding each the material and product s making sure that our constr has the information they n Their expertise is essential on how to incorporate their EXTERIOR SERVICES Decks James Hardie Siding Painting Roofs and Gutters Termite Damage Repair Windows and Doors INTERIOR SERVICES Kitchen Flooring Home Additions Bathrooms Space Planning Custom Designs Katherine Brickell and Alexandra Little are experts in guiding each client through the material and product selection process while making sure that our construction team has the information they need to stay on schedule. Their expertise is essential in advising the client on how to incorporate their personality into their dream home. MEET OUR INTERIOR DESIGNERS @lowcountrycontractors Luxury Exterior & Interior Remodeling 1204 Palms Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC (843) 242-8838 | www.Lowcountrycontractors.com
5 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com (843) 242-8838 1204 Palms Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC www.Lowcountrycontractors.com @lowcountrycontractors Luxury Exterior & Interior Remodeling Exterior Services Decks James Hardie Siding Painting Roofs and Gutters Termite Damage Repair Windows and Doors Interior Services Kitchen Flooring Bathrooms Space Planning -8838 sle of Palms, SC contractors.com trycontractors terior & modeling Services Roofs and Gutter ermite Damage Repair Windows and Doors Services Bathrooms Space Planning Custom Designs or Designers xandra Little h client through selection process while ruction team need to stay on schedule. in advising the client r (843) 242-8838 1204 Palms Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC www.Lowcountrycontractors.com @lowcountrycontractors Luxury Exterior & Interior Remodeling Exterior Services Decks James Hardie Siding Painting Roofs and Gutters Termite Damage Repair Windows and Doors Interior Services Kitchen Floori g Home Additions Bathrooms Space Planning Custom Designs Meet Our Interior Designers Katherine Brickell and Alexandra Little are experts in guiding each client through the material and product selection process while making sure that our construction team has the informatio they need to stay on schedule. Their expertise is essential in advising the client on how to incorporate their pers ality into their dream home. Interior Design Company Custom Home Builder Over $500,000 Thank Y F Voting F Us! Best Home Improve ent & Remodeling Best House Painter One Of The Best Thank You For Voting For Us! Best Home Improvement & Remodeling Best House Painter FIX-N-LIST From paint touch-ups to full remodeling projects, we pay to updateyour property before listing it! Increased property value and a shorter market time are guaranteed with this unique program which is only offered by Lowcountry Contractors and Patricia Blackstock, Realtor. We are so confident in our Fix-N-List program that we pay for it upfront with our own money and get reimbursed at closing. Patricia Blackstock (843) 725-8310 Pattiblackstock@KW.com Interior Design Company Custom Home Builder Over $500,00 Best Interior Decorator and Designer: Alexan Best Place To Work Thank Y F Voting F Us Best Home Improvement & Remode Best House Painter One Of The Best FIX-N From paint touch-ups to we pay to updateyour p Increased property value are guaranteed with this u offered by Lowco and Patricia Bla Patricia Blackstock (843) 725-8310 Pattiblackstock@KW.com We are so confident in our Fix-N-List prog upfront with our own money and get reim (843) 242-8838 | www.Lowcountrycontractors.com ONE OF THE BEST Interior Design Company Custom Home Builder Over $500,000 Best Interior Decorator and Designer: Alexandra Little Best Place To Work
6 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com Coastal Carolina's Leading Furniture and Design Center for 24 years. Make Your Home The Per fect Place, Trust J&K TALENTED, EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DESIGNERS WHO WILL EXECUTE YOUR VISION
7 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com President's Day Sale Save 30% -60% Storewide Plus We Will Pay Your Sales Tax 0% Interest Up to 5 years 1/18 - 2/21
8 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com contents JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 • VOL. 12, ISSUE 1 Publisher’s Note........................................................11 About the Cover. ......................................................11 Contributors. ...........................................................15 On the Web..............................................................16 Calendar of Events....................................................18 East Cooper Neighbors. ...........................................176 SEWE & CHS Wine + Food Return...............27 Valentine’s Day Recipe.....................................31 The History of Scanlonville..............................33 Mount Pleasant Firsts.......................................39 Meet the New Leaders......................................40 Biggest Hearts in Mount Pleasant....................45 Sip with a Sommelier.......................................48 Bookkeeper and CPA List..............................175 Features Expert Advice Pleasant Nutrition. .................................... 47 Magnolia Brides....................................... 49 CharlestonBrides.com. ............................. 50 Verita Bridal. ............................................ 55 Yoj Events................................................. 56 27 40 162 18 Bridal A Look Back at Pitt Street Bridge............... 51 A Wedding Planner’s Wedding................... 52 Salty Oak Farm.......................................... 55 Coastal Dwellings Old Bones, New Style.............................. 162 Top Ten Snee Farm.................................. 167 Top Ten Daniel Island. ............................ 168 Top Ten Dunes West................................ 169 Top Ten I’On........................................... 170 Top Ten Old Village. ............................... 171 Top Ten Sullivan’s Island.......................... 172 Top Ten Wild Dunes. .............................. 173
9 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com contents JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 • VOL. 12, ISSUE 1 Best of Mount Pleasant 2022 CATEGORIES Food & Drink.................................. 59 Shopping & Goods. ......................... 71 Personalities & Services. .................. 76 Pets. ................................................. 91 Health &Wellness ........................... 95 Entertainment & Leisure. .............. 103 MEET SOME OF YOUR WINNERS Sena Cafe............................................... 64 NICO | Oyster + Seafood...................... 66 Joey Bag A Donuts................................. 68 Copper Penny........................................ 75 Trey Harrell Law Office. ........................ 82 Zip’s Kar Kare........................................ 84 Amazing Nails Spa................................. 86 America’s Swimming Pool...................... 89 Charleston Men’s Clinic....................... 100 Charleston Custom Carts. ................... 105 Advanced Animal Care........................ 109 Set in Stone Hardscapes....................... 111 Hudson’s Imports................................. 115 Franke at Seaside.................................. 116 Low Country Contractors.................... 117 Rad Rydz............................................. 118 Woofgang Bakery. ............................... 121 SAVI Cucina........................................ 125 Jenny Phillips with Northwestern Mutual. . 126 Oyster Candle Company & Coastal Gifts.... 127 In the Black Marketing........................ 128 Haven’s Furniture. ............................... 129 Wando Family Dentistry...................... 131 Palmetto Christian Academy................ 133 Vanity Salon. ....................................... 135 East Cooper Lock and Safe.................. 136 Pleasant Family Dentistry.................... 139 Phillips Shoes....................................... 140 Michael’s Barkery................................. 141 Automotive Excellence......................... 143 Ascue’s Auto Body Shop. ..................... 144 Uplift Marketing Group. ..................... 145 Buxton & Collie.................................. 146 Hook 1 Charters.................................. 147 Migliori’s Pizzeria................................. 149 Sweetgrass Pharmacy............................ 151 Ragamuffin Children’s Boutique.......... 152 Baby Bloomers..................................... 154 Carpet Baggers..................................... 155 Southern Belles.................................... 156 Haddrell’s Point Tackle and Supply......... 157 Hope Sullivan withNewYork Life Investments. . 158 KIDS FIRST Swim School.................. 160 WakeUp Carolina................................ 160 2022 WWW.BESTOFMP.COM
10 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com
11 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com In the last 10 years, I’ve noticed that the real benefit from the Best of Mount Pleasant is sometimes overlooked. Yes, of course it’s about recognizing the businesses you think are worthy of your votes. We tabulate your votes and make sure the results are accurate, using a shield of integrity that protects the results and holds them to an unwavering standard. Protecting and respecting our readers’ voices through these votes is central to the Best of Mount Pleasant results. But the other key benefits of the Best Of edition are even greater than that. The outcome of the Best of Mount Pleasant is beneficial on a broader level — at least in my own opinion — because it inspires East Cooper locals to do business with other East Cooper locals. As your local magazine that supports — and is supported by — local businesses, we have branded and promoted the Best of Mount Pleasant emblem as an extension of Mount Pleasant Magazine and as a symbol of trust. Why can you trust us? We’ve published these results for a decade — and before that, we published the Best of Charleston. See past results from those early days here: www.BestofMP.com/BestofCharleston1990. The annual Best of Mount Pleasant stimulates conversations, gives new residents a road map to follow and creates commerce, but I still think the most important part of tabulating the votes and publishing the results each year is how it brings our community together. Whether it’s East Cooper residents and business owners participating in the Best Of photoshoot, attending and enjoying the annual Best Of party or proudly displaying the Best Of logo on a shop window or on social media, it’s all about our community and our shared relationships. For me, that’s the very Best thing about the annual Best of Mount Pleasant. Until next time, Bill Macchio Publisher • Publisher@MountPleasantMagazine.com publisher’s note Meet some of the Best Of Mount Pleasant! When the team at Mount Pleasant Magazine scouted for a location for this year’s Best of Mount Pleasant photoshoot, we knew that it needed to be iconically Mount Pleasant. The Ravenel Bridge has been a symbol of the town since its completion in 2005. Overlooking the Cooper River, the bridge’s cablestayed design is a link between two beautiful places in the Lowcountry. Mount Pleasant Magazine was given permission to use the land between Harborside East and Embassy Suites of Charleston. This location’s unobstructed view of the bridge is unmatched, and we are grateful for the opportunity. Thanks to the talent and hard work of Photographer Mark Staff, @markstaffphoto, we were able to capture a sunset photo with some of Mount Pleasant’s Best. And thanks to the generosity of Angie Balderson of Haven’s Furniture, we were able to have stylish and modern outdoor seating. From left to right: Ty Raju with SAVI Cucina; Stuart Markovitz with Charleston Men’s Clinic; Mike Able with Haddrell’s Point Tackle; Kate Tran with Amazing Nails Spa; Jeremy Johnson with America’s Swimming Pool Company; Trey Harrell with Trey Harrell Law Office LLC; Diane Lang with 1201 Midtown; Christi Ascue Kershaw with Ascue’s Auto Body & Paint Shop; Shannon Gallo with Oyster Candle Company & Coastal Gifts; Paul Smith with The Paul Smith Team; Matthew Smith with Charleston Custom Carts; Windi McKeithan with Ragamuffin Children’s Boutique; Steven Baugh with Set in Stone Hardscapes; and Dr. Cason Hund with Wando Family Dentistry.
12 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com Access all Mount Pleasant Hotels Locations, Deals & Rates Where to SLEEP in Mount Pleasant from cottages to suites, to inns and a campground, Mount Pleasant has accommodations for all wants and needs. Fall asleep overlooking the Charleston Harbor. Book a room only minutes from the beach. With exceptional service, a relaxing atmosphere, and a true Southern Hospitality experience. • Best Western Patriots Point • Cambria Hotel • Candlewood Suites Charleston • Comfort Inn & Suites at Patriots Point • Comfort Suites • Cottages on Charleston Harbor • Courtyard Marriott • Double Tree • Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston • Extended Stay America • Hampton Inn & Suites • Hampton Inn at Patriots Point • Harborside at Charleston Harbor • Hilton Garden Inn • Holiday Inn Express & Suites • Holiday Inn Express & Suites • Home2 Suites • Homewood Suites • Hyatt House • Hyatt Place at Towne Centre • Inn at I’on • Post House Inn • Quality Inn • Red Roof Plus • Residence Inn • Shem Creek Inn • Sleep Inn • Springhill Suites • Staybridge Suites • The Beach Club • The Palmetto House Inn • TownePlace Suites • Tru By Hilton HOTEL DIRECTORY
13 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com managing editor’s note Dear readers, As you may have already noticed, this edition of Mount Pleasant Magazine is a special one. To kick off the new year, we are honoring the businesses, people and places voted Best by our readers. The Best Of issue is my favorite edition of the year because of its impact on the community; small businesses get recognized, familiar favorites are thanked for their impact and residents and visitors get to know the area. You can find a complete list of the Best Of winners, starting on page 59. Adorning these pages, you’ll also find portraits of some of the Best from each category, taken by Mark Staff, @markstaffphoto. Some of the Best of Mount Pleasant also sat down with Mount Pleasant Magazine to answer some questions about their businesses. To learn about how businesses like Haddrell’s Point Tackle got started, or why financial professional Hope Sullivan loves working with the Mount Pleasant community, flip to page 158. In this section — the Winner’s Circle — readers get a direct link to some of the Best of Mount Pleasant. Don’t miss it. This issue is the largest one of the year because of our dedication to the Best of Mount Pleasant, but that’s not all readers can learn from this edition. Starting on page 51, you’ll find a special bridal section covering topics like the hidden gem wedding venue in McClellanville, aptly named Salty Oak Farm. And don’t miss the story of Natalie Knox, wedding planner at Boone Hall Plantation, and her recent nuptials. Check out how she used her expertise to plan a dream wedding on page 52. Mount Pleasant, thank you for making the Best Of issue possible. Without your unwavering support of our community, this magazine wouldn’t be what it is today. Sincerely, Allison Sherman Managing Editor editor@mountpleasantmagazine.com Vol. 12, Issue 1 • January/February 2022 PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR BILL MACCHIO Publisher@MountPleasantMagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR ALLISON SHERMAN CONTRIBUTING EDITORS DENISE K. JAMES COLIN MCCANDLESS ART DIRECTOR DANA COLEMAN PRODUCTION MANAGER BETHANY LONG AD DESIGNERS KIM HALL REBECCA SOTTILE BETHANY LONG TECHNOLOGY GEORGE CONKLIN BRAIN SMITH GENE PHAN WRITERS COLIN MCCANDLESS • BILL FARLEY MARY COY • ISABEL ALVAREZ ARATA GINGER SOTTILE • JASON STURDEVANT TY RAJO PHOTOGRAPHERS MARK STAFF • JENN CADY ALLISON SHERMAN • BETHANY LONG BRAND AMBASSADOR STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM INDEPENDENT MEDIA CONSULTANTS ANDY BIMONTE ANDY@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM MANDY WILLIS MANDY@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM ADMINISTRATION & BOOKKEEPING GINGER SOTTILE DISTRIBUTION U.S. POST OFFICE • HARRIS TEETER • PUBLIX • CVS Mount Pleasant Magazine is published locally by a team of independent contractors. Mount Pleasant Magazine is published six times per year by Media Services, Inc. 1013 Chuck Dawley Blvd., Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Copyright © Media Services 2022. All rights reserved. Reproduction electronically or in print format without the expressed written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited and a violation of U.S. copyright laws. Inquiries to: Mount Pleasant Magazine P.O. Box 22617, Charleston, SC 29413 843-881-1481 Info@MountPleasantMagazine.com 2022 WWW. BESTOFMP.COM
14 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com Volunteer to tutor a Lowcountry student this school year! Make an impact this year and beyond by singing up to be literacy mentor today! “Spending time with my reading partner was the best hour of my week!” -Karen, former Reading Partners tutor VISIT WWW.READINGPARTNERS.ORG OR CALL 843-860-3915 TO LEARN MORE ✓ No teaching experience is required! Our easy-to-follow curriculum guides you through lessons for young learners. ✓Just one hour a week! Make a difference for a young reader by volunteering just one hour a week. ✓Our staff is here to help! We provide support, training, and feedback to help you feel confident.
15 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com contributors Colin McCandless is a Charleston-based freelance writer who enjoys writing about history, nature, travel and outdoor recreation. He has more than 14 years of writing experience working for magazines and newspapers and developing blog and website content. In his spare time, he loves traveling, hiking, reading and playing tennis and trivia. The author of four books, Bill Farley began his media career as a newspaper reporter. Along the way he has worked in local and national radio, national television news and sports, prime-time network television programming and as a senior executive at Playboy and a spokesman for its founder, Hugh M. Hefner. He has now come full circle to writing about local issues and people in the Lowcountry. Veteran author Mary Coy is an expert on Charleston’s history. Not only has she published several books on the subject, you can also find her giving tours of the Holy City in her free time. For over ten years, Coy has written for Mount Pleasant Magazine. Isabel Alvarez Arata is a freelance writer and copywriter with a focus on business, marketing and lifestyle. Her passion lies in sharing her knowledge of pets, pet care and pet-friendly living. She contributes to various online and print outlets, including Mount Pleasant Magazine and her pet-related web and radio show, “Covered in Pet Hair.” Interested in contributing to Mount Pleasant Magazine? Email your contact information (name, phone, mailing address) and one sample of work you have created (or a link to your work online) with the subject “Aspiring MPM Contributor” to Editor@ MountPleasantMagazine.com. East Cooper specialists with 50+ years combined real estate experience. CharlestonFineHomes.com WE ARE CHARLESTON REAL ESTATE
16 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com atch Mount Pleasant Magazine online at MountPleasantMagazine.com, and flip through the digital magazine at ReadMPM.com. For up-to-date, relevant content for all of Mount Pleasant and East Cooper, follow us on Instagram @MountPleasantMagazine, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/ MountPleasantMagazine. In our recently-added section, Mount Pleasant Dwellings, check out all things home. Check out ChsWomenInRE.com and MountPleasantAgents.com for more information about some of the real estate agents who appear in these pages. Access TopTenHomesSold.com to view the top homes sold in specific Mount Pleasant areas, going back to 2015. Continue the conversation about local real estate and the latest trends on our newest podcast, VOICEforRealEstate.com. We can all learn from the businesses who were voted Best Of in 2021. Watch, listen and LEARN from the businesses who were voted Best on our podcast, BestOfMPpodcast.com. To listen to the original Mount Pleasant Magazine podcast, go to MountPleasantPodcast.com anytime to listen to more than 25 episodes. We are happy to announce the winners of the Best of Mount Pleasant 2022 in this issue. View previous winners at our website MountPleasantMagazine.com. Do you have an idea for a feature? Share your story ideas with us, including photos and/or local business information, to editor@mountpleasantmagazine.com. We’d love to hear from you. C on the web CHANGING THE LIVES OF CHARLESTON TWO HANDS AT A TIME WWW. BESTOFMP.COM .C HealthLinks CHARLESTON BEST in HHEALTHH FIRST 10 CALLERS to mention this ad will receive a consultation, exam, any necessary x-rays* WINTER SPECIAL WWW. BESTOFMP.COM OM Find us on facebook @DrMatthewMurrin DR. MATTHEW MURRIN DC, BSc Kin, CEP, CFC CHIROPRACTICUSASC.COM 1004 ANNA KNAPP BLVD., MOUNT PLEASANT, SC 29464 843.881.0046 $37 FOR ONLY a $415 Value *Does not apply to Medicare and Medicaid participants.
17 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com Your Coastal Carolina Relocation Kit includes one free copy of each magazine below. ExploreCoastalCarolina.com Whether you’re interested in a primary residence to raise your family, a second home to be closer to your new grandchild or even a retirement home, your Coastal Carolina Relocation Kit will help you make your move a smooth one. ☐ Yes, I live 100 miles from Charleston and would like your FREE Coastal Carolina Relocation Kit including magazines listed. I would like to receive information regarding: *Choose a max of 3 cities ☐ Beaufort ☐ Hilton Head ☐ Charleston/Mount Pleasant ☐ Folly Beach☐ Isle of Palms ☐ Sullivan’s Island ☐ Daniel Island ☐ Summerville ☐ McLellanville ☐ Pawley’s Island ☐ Georgetown ☐ Murrells Inlet Where did you pick up a copy of this magazine? _______________________________________ Age: ☐ 25-35 ☐ 36-49 ☐ 50-60 ☐ 61-69 ☐ 70+ My Relocation Kit is for: ☐ Friend ☐ Family Member ☐ Myself Name: ____________________________________ Address: __________________________________ City: ________________ State: _________ *Must be outside the Charleston Metro area Zip: __________ E-mail: ___________________________ Mail to: Coastal Carolina Relocation Kit • P.O. Box 22617, Charleston, SC 29413
18 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com JANUARY SC STINGRAYS When: Dates & times vary Where: North Charleston Coliseum& Performing Arts Center Bring the Sting! Come out to support our very own ECHL team. Several ticket packages to choose from. --------------------------------------------------------------------- CHARLESTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS: HART OF TCHAIKOVSKY ACCOMPANIED BY HARLEM QUARTET When: Jan. 7 & 8 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Charleston Gaillard Center The Harlem Quartet will be joining the Charleston Symphony for the world premiere of A Charleston Concerto, written by local composer Edward Hart to commemorate the 350th anniversary of the city of Charleston. Through imagining native people’s discovery of the harbor, by celebrating the Gullah culture with nods to its musical heritage and with optimism for what is to come, the concerto does not shy away from history. --------------------------------------------------------------------- CITIZEN COPE When: Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Respect is ultimately what it all comes down to for Cope: respect for the art, respect for each other, respect for ourselves, respect for our instincts. At the end of the day, we all want the same things. Change, growth and satisfaction require patience, work and love. Seven years in the making, the album “Heroin & Helicopters” is proof of that. --------------------------------------------------------------------- MONSTER JAM When: Jan. 8 at 7 p.m.; Jan. 9 at 2 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum& Performing Arts Center Monster Jam® is the motorsports competition where 12,000-pound trucks and the world-class athletes who drive them tear up the dirt with gravity-defying feats. Engineered to perfection, the legendary Grave Digger®, Max-D™, Megalodon® and many more push all limits in Freestyle, the Skills Challenge and Racing competitions. --------------------------------------------------------------------- MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL When: Jan. 13 at 7 p.m. Where: Charleston Gaillard Center Hilarious musical celebrating women and the change. --------------------------------------------------------------------- OFF-ROAD DUATHLON When: Jan. 15 at 8:30 a.m. Where: Laurel Hill County Park The trails of Laurel Hill County Park mark the course for our Off-Road Duathlon, presented in partnership with Anne Moore Endurance Coaching and Mt. Pleasant Velo. This threepart, beginner-friendly course begins with a two-mile run, then a seven-mile bike, and finishes with another two-mile run. --------------------------------------------------------------------- MICHAEL BOLTON When: Jan. 16 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Charleston Gaillard Center From “When a Man Loves a Woman” to “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” and more, Michael Bolton’s time, love and tenderness have created the soundtrack of our lives. Join the Grammy award winner for an evening of timeless hits and a musical journey through pop, rock, soul and even classical. Calendar of Events
19 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com calendar of events --------------------------------------------------------------------- LITTLE FEAT WITH JACK BROADBENT When: Jan. 20 at 7 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Fifty-two years of great music doesn’t squeeze down to one page very easily. Little Feat fused a broad span of styles and genres into something utterly distinctive. It’s a mix of California rock, funk, folk, jazz, country, rockabilly and New Orleans swamp boogie and more, all stirred into a rich gumbo that can only be Little Feat. --------------------------------------------------------------------- REIGN OF RICE LECTURE SERIES, 2022 CULTURAL ENVIRONMENTS THAT SUSTAIN RICE HERITAGE When: Jan. 22 at 1 p.m. Where: Brookgreen Gardens Corrie Clairborne, PhD - “Literary Cultural Environments that Support Rice Heritage.” --------------------------------------------------------------------- TIG NOTARO HELLO AGAIN TOUR When: Jan. 26 at 6 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Tig Notaro is an Emmy and Grammy nominated stand-up comedian, writer, radio contributor and actor, as well as a favorite on numerous talk shows, including “Ellen,” “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” and “Conan.” Rolling Stone named her one of the “50 best stand-up comics of all time.” Notaro currently appears in Zack Snyder’s “Army of the Dead” and “Star Trek: Discovery.” She wrote and starred in the groundbreaking TV show “One Mississippi” and hosts an advice podcast, “Don’t Ask Tig” as well as the documentary film podcast, “Tig and Cheryl: True Story.” --------------------------------------------------------------------- PATTI O’FURNITURE’S DRAG SPECTACULAR FEATURING MISS COCO PERU When: Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Coco performs some of her favorite monologues and songs spanning her long career, as well as some new stuff too. Whether you’ve heard all or some of these stories or you’re a Coco virgin, come see why Lily Tomlin called Coco “one of the last great storytellers” and experience the trailblazing queen who elevated drag whilst still wearing sensible heels. --------------------------------------------------------------------- AMERICAN ANIMALIER: THE LIFE AND ART OF ANNA HYATT HUNTINGTON When: Jan. 29 – April 24; times vary. Where: Brookgreen Gardens In the Hoy and Mize Galleries of the Rosen Gallery American Animalier: The Life and Art of Anna Hyatt Huntington. This show is a retrospective of the work of award-winning sculptor and patron Anna Hyatt Huntington. --------------------------------------------------------------------- ASHLEY MCBRYDE THIS TOWN TALKS TOUR WITH ASHLAND CRAFT When: Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Ashley McBryde cut her teeth playing country songs in rural biker bars –and it shows. McBryde closed out 2019 with ACM New Female Artist, CMT Breakout Artist of the Year, a New Artist of the Year win at the 53rd Annual CMA Awards and two nominations for the 2020 Grammy awards for Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance for “Girl Goin’ Nowhere.”
20 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com --------------------------------------------------------------------- CORINNE BAILEY RAE & JOSS STONE When: Jan. 29 at 7:30 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center Two-time Grammy award winner Corinne Bailey Rae gained a loyal fan base with her self-titled number-one UK debut album in 2006, featuring the global hits “Put Your Records On” and “Like A Star.” Grammywinning artist Joss Stone rose to fame with her multiplatinum debut album “The Soul Sessions.” Her follow-up album, “Mind Body & Soul,” topped the UK Album Chart. --------------------------------------------------------------------- DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE When: Jan. 30 at 2 p.m. Where: Charleston Gaillard Center Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favorite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex! Also enjoy Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus. Recommended for ages 3 and up. CATS When: Feb. 4-6; times vary. Where: North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center CATS, the record-breaking musical spectacular by Andrew Lloyd Webber that has captivated audiences in over 30 countries and 15 languages, is now on tour across North America. --------------------------------------------------------------------- SAVE THE LIGHT HALF MARATHON & 5K When: Feb. 5 at 8 a.m. Where: Folly Beach Pier Participate in a half-marathon and 5K to support the preservation of the Morris Island Lighthouse by Save The Light, a nonprofit organization that formed in 2000. Both races are USATF-certified and start and finish near the Folly Beach Pier. The half Marathon is a run-only event. The 5K is open to runners and walkers. --------------------------------------------------------------------- NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON When: Feb. 10 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Charleston Gaillard Center An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies – The Sequel: An entertaining and enlightening review of all the science that our favorite movies got wrong, combined with some of the stuff they got right. VIP experience available. --------------------------------------------------------------------- CLINT BLACK AND LISA HARTMAN BLACK When: Feb. 11 at 8 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center After 30 years of ‘killin’ time,’ Clint Black is ready to celebrate. The multi-million album selling country icon is set to embark on a tour commemorating the 30th anniversary of his groundbreaking debut album “Killin’ Time,” which all but altered the landscape of country music. calendar of events FEBRUARY
21 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com --------------------------------------------------------------------- REIGN OF RICE LECTURE SERIES, 2022 CULTURAL ENVIRONMENTS THAT SUSTAIN RICE HERITAGE When: Feb. 11 at 1 p.m. Where: Brookgreen Gardens Jon Smalls of Freewood Farms - “Farming Values that Sustain Rice Heritage.” --------------------------------------------------------------------- EDWIN MCCAIN When: Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall A Charleston fave, McCain is called the “great American romantic” by the New York Times and has built an enviable career over the past 20 years by balancing his massive pop success with the year-round touring schedule of a tireless troubadour. His hit songs, authentic spirit and surprisingly affable sense of humor keep fans coming back time and time again for nights that feel more like parties with old friends than rock concerts. --------------------------------------------------------------------- ROMANCE IN THE GARDENS When: Feb. 14 from 1-3 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. Where: Brookgreen Gardens Celebrate Romance in the Gardens by renewing your wedding vows on Valentine’s Day! A nondenominational ceremony will be held at the boat landing at Brookgreen Creek, followed by a reception at the Leonard Pavilion. --------------------------------------------------------------------- ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER When: Feb. 15 & 16 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Charleston Gaillard Center Truly great dance can be a window to the heart and soul, revealing our deepest selves. Let the dancers of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater take you on a path of discovery. --------------------------------------------------------------------- RICK SPRINGFIELD: STRIPPED DOWN When: Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum& Performing Arts Center Rick will be treating fans to a special series of intimate solo performances with storytelling. You do not want to miss your chance to see Rick perform and get up close and personal with the man and his music. --------------------------------------------------------------------- CAMP HAPPY DAYS ANNOUNCES ITS 31ST ANNUAL FUNDRAISING GALA When: Feb. 25, 2022 Where: Festival Hall (formerly Memminger Auditorium) Join us for a Cárnival-themed, festive “Hello, Rio! Gala”; an evening of fun, delicious food, signature cocktails, costumes, live music and fundraising auctions filled with exclusive items and packages to support children with cancer. --------------------------------------------------------------------- JAMES GREGORY When: Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall For decades, the unforgettable caricature of veteran comedian James Gregory has stood grinning with his shirt untucked, his arms outstretched and a carefree welcome to a down-home, hilarious comedy experience. The trademark caricature is the essence of James Gregory’s comedy: ribtickling reflections on life from the front porch. calendar of events
22 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com 1470 Ben Sawyer Blvd., Unit 6 | Mount Pleasant ScC 29464 lantanarecovery.com | 843.352.9982 The first step is the most difficult one, but our rehab specialists can ease you into the process and help you turn your life around. Personalized Addiction Treatment Programs Substance Abuse Outpatient Treatment Start living sober today! Contact us to schedule an appointment and start your sober life today. Mt. P 29464 / 843.884.8884 / smilecarolinasc.com @smilecarolinasc @virginialgregorydmd @drjohnsondmd Dr. Jeffrey Johnson Dr. Virginia Gregory Dr. Anya Kent COSMETIC ENDODONTIC RESTORATIVE GENERAL FACIAL AESTHETICS SNORE GUARDS YOUR EXPERT TEAM FOR COMPREHENSIVE SMILE REJUVENATION DENTAL IMPLANTS WITH DR . JEFFREY JOHNSON There has been no better time in the history of restorative dentistry than NOW to replace a missing tooth or replace poor fitting dentures. Dental implants provide confidence, happiness and are better for your overall health. Let’s get your smile back! and
23 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com calendar of events LYLE LOVETT AND HIS ACOUSTIC GROUP When: Mar. 1 at 8 p.m. Where: Charleston Gaillard Center Lovett’s Acoustic Group features longtime bassist Viktor Krauss, who has played with Lovett since 1994, and violinist Luke Bulla, who’s played and sung in Lovett’s different configurations since 2009. Veteran country and bluegrass multi-instrumentalist Jeff White, who reunited with Lovett for his last Acoustic Group tour in 2020, will play acoustic guitar, mandolin and sing on the tour. Tennessee dobro whiz Josh Swift, who also played on the 2020 Acoustic Group tour, will play dobro and sing. --------------------------------------------------------------------- CSO MASTERWORKS 7: STRAVINSKY’S PETRUSHKA When: Mar. 4 & 5 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Charleston Gaillard Center Igor Stravinsky’s ballet “Petrushka” tells the story of the title character, a popular puppet in Russian folk tales, who finds himself in several uniquely human experiences, including love and death. After his success with “The Firebird,” Petrushka was a bold step away from the late-Romantic period influence. --------------------------------------------------------------------- READ ACROSS AMERICA CELEBRATION When: Mar. 5 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Where: Brookgreen Gardens You could not, should not, would not want to miss our Read Across America Day! Join us in the Enchanted Storybook Forest for a fun-filled day with amazing makeand-take crafts, S.T.E.M. challenges and exciting fun games. --------------------------------------------------------------------- WHERE THE WILD THINGS RUN 5K When: Mar. 5 at 8:30 a.m. Where: Caw Caw Interpretive Center Walkers, joggers and runners: come explore your wild side on the scenic nature trails at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Caw Caw is actively managed for a variety of wildlife and a favored habitat for rare wildlife, so there is also the chance you may see a “wild thing” or two. MARCH
24 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com calendar of events --------------------------------------------------------------------- GRAHAM NASH: AN INTIMATE EVENING OF SONGS AND STORIES When: Mar. 8 at 7 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Legendary artist Graham Nash is a two-time Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee – with Crosby, Stills and Nash and with the Hollies. He was also inducted twice into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, as a solo artist and with CSN, and he is a Grammy award winner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- TOTO: DOGZ OF OZ TOUR When: Mar. 9 at 7 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Few ensembles in the history of recorded music have individually or collectively had a larger imprint on pop culture than the members of TOTO. As individuals, the band members can be heard on an astonishing 5,000 albums that together amass a sales history of a half a billion albums. --------------------------------------------------------------------- ARTFEST When: Mar. 12 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Where: Mount Pleasant Towne Centre The Town of Mount Pleasant is proud to sponsor this annual festival, bringing families and cultural enthusiasts together with budding and professional artists for an event that showcases a diverse array of local and regional artistic talent. The Mount Pleasant Artists Guild presents a juried art show. All activities and performances are free of charge. www.ErikaLynn.com @ErikaLynnHandmade 608 F Long Point Rd, Belle Hall Shopping Center Handbags • Jewelry • Accessories • Gifts • Handmade in Charleston, SC
25 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com BY B I L L MACCH I O ABeautiful Day The Best Location for the 2022 Best Of Photo Shoot COVID-19 forced us to photograph last year’s Best Of 2021 photo outdoors at Alhambra Hall. But our guests, along with Team Mount Pleasant Magazine, had such a great time that we decided to capture the 2022 Best Of photo outdoors as well. After making the decision, we had to plan out a multitude of details to make that happen. At the top of that never-ending list was where to find the perfect location. Several locations were discussed, but the location that kept rising to the top was one we had discovered during a photoshoot at Harborside East in June 2021. We’ve captured many images inside Harborside East, with its modern-meetstraditional decor. Although we had been counting votes for the Best of Mount Pleasant a few years before 2016, the first Mount Pleasant Magazine Best Of photoshoot was photographed inside Harborside East. When you visit www. bestofmp.video, you can scroll down and find the 2016 Best Of photoshoot. Harborside East was also home to a more recent photoshoot in June 2021. Jenn
26 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com best of mount pleasant Cady was photographing the cover for the summer edition of Charleston Women. During the shoot, some of the team strolled outside to explore the grounds. As we walked toward the newlybuilt Hilton Embassy at Charleston Harbor, it was hard not to be mesmerized, even as we viewed a structure we had seen so many times before. The Ravenel Bridge was framed by a piercing blue sky with fluffy white clouds that resembled cotton balls, and the sun was directing its rays down to the blueish-green field of grass that separated Harborside East and Hilton Embassy Suites. Soon, we were inspired to select this location for the 2022 Best Of photoshoot. As the photo deadline drew closer, I reached out to Hilton Embassy Suites about using what we felt was the best vantage point to view the Ravenel Bridge. I was put in touch with Lindsey McQueary, director of sales, who reached out to corporate, getting us clearance. Although there was still much to do, at least Mount Pleasant Magazine had the perfect location to capture an image to honor Mount Pleasant business owners. As we moved toward the special day, I would check my weather app every morning and at least once more in the evening. Would there be rain, sunshine or an overcast sky? Regardless, I just needed to move forward — there was nothing I could do anyway. I reached out to Angie Balderson, owner of Haven’s Furniture, as we did last year. She was excited to provide furnishings again, and we were excited to have her. As we continued toward the big day, we discussed the category pages that introduce each section: Food & Drink, Personalities & Services, Shopping & Goods, Pets, Health & Wellness and Entertainment & Leisure. Each year, we have six categories and hundreds of subcategories in which readers can vote. We invite local businesses from each of the categories to join us, so they can introduce their respective category. Crafting the right image for each category was left to photographer Mark Staff, @markstaffphoto. His images were captured at the back of Harborside East, on a path that winds along the Charleston Harbor’s water’s edge. This year, Mark Staff also captured the Best Of 2022 cover photo, which highlights several winning businesses and the iconic bridge between Mount Pleasant and Charleston. The images shared with our readers are not only a result of the hard work and the creative talent of the team at Mount Pleasant Magazine but also a result of the generosity and professionalism displayed by the staff at Harborside East, Hilton Embassy Suites and Bennett Hospitality. At the beginning of each year, we strive to bring the community we serve together through the pages of Mount Pleasant Magazine’s Best Of edition. We hope you will enjoy this issue as much as we enjoy bringing it to you.
27 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com BY COL I N MCCANDLESS Together at Last SEWE and CharlestonWine + Food set to return in 2022 Two of Charleston’s most popular annual events, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) and the Charleston Wine + Food festival (CHSWF), are back after a year hiatus. Mount Pleasant Magazine spoke with SEWE’s Executive Director John Powell and Charleston Wine + Food Marketing and Communications Director Alyssa Smith about the return to in-person gatherings and what to expect from each event in 2022. The 40th Annual SEWE returns on Feb. 18. Established in 1983, the event has always been held on the weekend preceding President’s Day. Powell said they have always
28 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com viewed it as the official kick off to the Charleston tourism season. This year, SEWE will be spread throughout five different Charleston venues, with the focal point at the Charleston Place Hotel. Similar to many organizers hosting events and festivals, SEWE’s made the decision to cancel last year’s expo. It was an unprecedented move, marking the first time in SEWE history that the event wasn’t held in person. “Like most others, we were trying to figure out what we could do and what we couldn’t do,” recalled Powell. Following discussions and deliberation, SEWE’s coordinators created a plan for an amended show that offered as many virtual events as possible and promoted artists through their website to help facilitate sales. “We just weren’t ready as a society to gather in mass,” reflected Powell. With more individuals getting fully vaccinated and receiving boosters, that script has flipped, and people are feeling comfortable attending gatherings again. “It’s been great to see large events held safely,” remarked Powell, noting the return of the Cooper River Bridge Run last September. He has seen people energized about SEWE ticket sales for the 2022 expo. The event generally draws visitors from all over the Southeast. CELEBRATINGWILDLIFE ART AND CONSERVATION SEWE is a wildlife art-based event featuring talented artists from around the country, exhibiting paintings, sculpture and carvings. As SEWE has grown, its conservation mission has evolved as well, explained Powell, inspiring attendees through its art and demonstrations. The expo includes canine demos, live musical performances — including seated performances at the Charleston Gaillard Center — cooking demonstrations and more, in addition to a fine art gallery displayed at Charleston Place Hotel. “There’s something for everyone at SEWE,” noted Powell. He added that one of the most thrilling aspects is that attendees can expect a normal SEWE in 2022, with the typical in-person gatherings. “I think there’s so much excitement about being back together.” This is especially important for SEWE because the artists are accessible on site to engage with guests. “One of the things that’s special about SEWE is that the artists are present throughout the event,” said Powell. “It creates a personal interaction.” The featured artist for 2022 is painter Julia Rogers from Maryland. There will also be an encore presentation of work from 2021’s featured artist Mark Kelvin Horton, a Charleston-based painter. SEWE’s guest artist for this year’s event is Kathleen Dunphy of California. Although SEWE has evolved and expanded over the years to include the canine demos and cooking demonstrations, the focus remains on wildlife art and showcasing wildlife artists. “SEWE’s core is and always will be wildlife art,” concluded Powell. CHARLESTONWINE + FOOD FESTIVAL BACK FIRST WEEKEND OF MARCH Gourmands rejoice! The 2022 Charleston Wine + Food festival (CHSWF) returns March 2-6 for the 16th installment of this celebration held annually during the first full weekend of March. Ticketed events are located in different venues throughout the greater Charleston area, including several East of the Cooper, such as the Hip Hops Day Party and Pinot Envy! — both events held at the Lawn at Embassy Suites — and A Day on Dewees. East Cooper restaurants hosting festival events include Coda Del Pesce, The Longboard, Malika Pakistani Chai Canteen, Post House Inn and Grace & Grit. Founded by a group of community leaders in 2005, CHSWF is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that launched its eponymous festival in 2006. The purpose was to create feature
29 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com an event to “elevate Charleston’s culinary brand” and bring “national and international attention to our city through a multi-day festival,” said CHSWF Marketing and Communications Director Alyssa Smith. CHSWF is the biggest event they produce, and when the pandemic cancelled the festival in 2021, it was the firstever occurrence, as it had been with SEWE. “It felt really weird,” recollected Smith. “It was off to not have this event. It’s become a ritual and tradition for so many dedicated festival-goers.” TELLING STORIES THROUGH FOOD As Smith explained, CHSWF is primarily about storytelling, and it’s the stories and the meaning behind them that make this food scene so exceptional. There are events dedicated to the rich history of Charleston cuisine, and 2022’s version will also host an Asian street market event called “Street Eats” to showcase the growing influence of Asian cooking in our culinary milieu. CHSWF organizers are eager to resume this year and promote our city. “We celebrate and highlight the unique culinary community we have,” commented Smith, a Charleston native. “We’re just extremely grateful feature
www.instagram.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1