All Things Charleston

The Charleston Cinderella Project

March 3, 2015 by Gail

The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction wants to share some information about one of our favorite events of the year, The Charleston Cinderella Project. The organization collects formal dresses, gowns, purses, jewelry, shawls, shoes, and accessories, and provide those items to financially challenged high school ladies free of cost.

This year’s event will be hosted at John Wesley United Methodist Church March 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations are still being accepted, at the locations on their website,

through March 11. If you’re interested in helping to set up March 13, please sign up online. We appreciate everyone’s support to help these young women look gorgeous for their big day!

Alissa Collins Lietzow, Project Chair for the Charleston Cinderella Project, tells us what this event means to her:

Tell us how you became involved with The Cinderella Project?

I became involved back in 2004, when I was a Freshman at College of Charleston. I was volunteering at St. Matthew’s after school program when I started to see dresses being donated in the early months. After learning more about the Cinderella Project, I jumped in! I started chairing the project the next year.

How many young ladies attend the event each year?

The project has really grown since its inception. The first year I volunteered, we maybe had 20/25 girls come and about 100 dresses. Over the last several years, we’ve really grown the event, adding in accessories, dressing rooms, and fabulous door prizes to make the entire experience feel like a day of shopping. We’re hoping for several hundred girls to attend March 14.

What is the one “made my day” moment that you have experienced while working on this project?

I have several of those “made my day” moments throughout the years. The hugs from moms and grandmamas that come shopping with the girls are always heartwarming. Some of the e-mails asking for assistance are quite touching. I also remember a young lady who reached out and wanted to donate her dress back to the event because she had such a wonderful time, she wanted to give another young lady that same opportunity. The project takes months of planning, but it’s always worth it.

How can people contact you if they want to help or donate?

For more information, e-mail CinderellaProjectCharleston@gmail.com, visit their website www.cinderellaprojectcharleston.com, or find them on social media

Filed Under: All Things Charleston, Upcoming Events Tagged With: donate, prom, self esteem, The Charleston Cinderella Project, The Cinderella Project, volunteer

Date Ideas with an Extra Dose of Love

February 3, 2015 by Gail

So “that” day is rapidly approaching.

You know the day I’m talking about…the one with the extra high expectations and all the surrounding hoopla. Yep, that’s the one: Valentine’s Day.

All right, ladies, it’s time to drop some not-so-subtle hints to our significant others.

Sure, carnations and chocolates are nice, but it’s time for a change.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve been happily married for 20 years or just “in like” with someone, you deserve a date that involves truly spending time with one another.

So it’s time to work our female super powers. Here are 5 unique date ideas that—if you spin the right way—your date may think he came up with all on his own:

1. Plan a picnic

This one is an oldie but goodie. If you’re in Charleston and it’s not too windy, nothing says romance like a basket full of food, a blanket, and a bottle of wine.

2. Make an evening of it

Drinks, dinner, and dessert are a classic for Valentine’s Day. But why not make it an event? Have a night mapped out where you go to a different restaurant for each course. It makes the date last longer and shows you put a lot of thought into the occasion. Make sure you hint that he needs to get reservations, or else you’ll be hopping around burger joints!

3. Take a cooking class

Want to get to know someone better? Need to rekindle with your loved one? An activity, like taking a cooking class together, is a fun way to let loose and connect. If you are in Charleston, we suggest Charleston cooks! Maverick Kitchen Store.

4. Go ice-skating

Ice-skating is the perfect date for the two of you to get slightly out of your comfort zone. Not to mention great practice for learning how to support one another! Make sure you check Carolina Ice Palace’s public skating times.

5. Girls’ night

Don’t think we forgot about you, single ladies! Don’t fret if your prince charming hasn’t arrived. Pedicures, wine, and chocolate with your best girlfriends are definitely on the list this Valentine’s Day.

Have other great date ideas? Please share below!

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: date ideas, date night, date night in Charleston, ice-skating, love, picnic, Valentine's Day

Charleston Holiday Heirloom Recipes

December 16, 2014 by Gail

This month we’ve been highlighting everything we love about our beloved Charleston. We would be remiss not to include the many heirloom holiday recipes we hold dear this time of year.

You won’t find a cranberry sauce recipe or an average sugar cookie on this list. We are covering our favorite holiday recipes-Charleston style.

1. She Crab Soup– Often called Charleston’s signature dish, She Crab soup is an evolution of Scottish seafood bisque. A rich-in-flavor recipe that melds succulent blue crab meat with a hearty cream soup that is finished with a dash of dry sherry, the dish dates to the early 1700s and was famously served to President Taft (1909 – 13) during his visit to Charleston. Synonymous with special occasions, She Crab soup often appears on local’s Christmas Day dinner menus.

2. The Benne Wafer– In our last blog, we mentioned how these yummy treats make the perfect unique gift. They are a delicious example of plantation era ingenuity, a recipe born of a few basic ingredients-butter, brown sugar, flour, and toasted sesame seeds. Said to invoke good luck, Benne wafers pack a crunch and make a popular holiday party host gift!

3. Historic St. Cecilia Punch-Formal balls, a revered social ritual in the Lowcountry, traditionally take place at Christmastime, when the plantation aristocracy historically arrived in town for debutante season. The custom of presenting a signature punch dates back to the 1700s. Vintage cocktails are in vogue, so why not offer a centuries-old libation to your guests this holiday season?

4. Eggnog, Peppermint Bars, Santa Mice Cookies–The Bakehouseonly uses wholesome ingredients to create delectable preservative-free treats. Peppermint takes center stage during the holidays when the bakery pulls out its favorite Christmastime recipes to produce seasonal sweets. The Santa Mice cookies are always a hit!

5. Shrimp and Grits– You didn’t think we’d forget this did you?! Shrimp and Grits is a quintessential Lowcountry recipe. Originally served as a hardy breakfast during the plantation era, contemporary interpretations of the dish are popular for both brunch and supper—and especially during festive holiday gatherings.

Do you have a favorite Charleston Heirloom Holiday Recipe? Please share it on our Facebook page!

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: Charleston, Charleston recipes, Christmas in Charleston, holiday recipes, Recipes, she crab soup, shrimp and grits, St. Cecilia Punch, the benne wafer

Charleston Holiday Gift Guide

December 9, 2014 by Gail

After much deliberation, the team at Natural Breast Reconstruction has officially made the decision on this year’s best holiday gift to give your loved ones, friends, and colleagues. Not just an ordinary holiday gift–a holiday gift from the Holy City.

We Charlestonians have many beloved traditions to uphold, so this was no simple task. However, we have come to a conclusion. This year’s #1 Charleston holiday gift goes to (drum roll) the Charleston Gift Basket!

This is no ordinary gift basket. This is a cornucopia of original Charleston fare and–well, let’s face it, nothing says Charleston like a handmade sweetgrass basket:

Sweetgrass Basket (price: $25- $1000) African art that was brought to Charleston by enslaved West Africans. The sweetgrass basket was originally designed as a tool in the production and harvesting of rice and is only made in Charleston.

Other favorites that made our favorite list:

Dancin’ Goat ($12.99-$29.99)–Goats milk facial and body products from local farmer on Johns Island. All natural, healthy, and made with love from Charleston goats.

Carolina Gold Plantation Rice (price: $13) — As early as the 1690s, rice began to grow as South Carolina’s leading export crop. The most famous variety grown was called “Carolina Gold” and is considered to be the grandfather of long grain rice in the Americas.

Benne Seed Wafers (price: $5.95) — Toasted sesame seed cookies, Benne Seed Wafers are a classic Charleston tradition brought to America from East Africa during the 17^th century. A little buttery, a little sweet and a little crunchy, many think Benne’s are the perfect cookie.

American Classic Tea (price: $8.95) — Grown on Wadmalaw Island, this tea is the freshest tea you can purchase, because it’s the only tea grown here in America!

Do you have other holiday gifts unique to Charleston? Please share ideas below!

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: Charleston, gift basket, gifts, holiday, holiday gift ideas, sweetgrass basket

Charleston Events to Get into the Holiday Spirit

December 2, 2014 by Gail

The holidays are a special time of year—there’s nothing like that indescribable magic in the air. From the Christmas lights to festive store displays, and the carolers and holiday parties to playing dreidle and lighting the menorah, there’s just a different feeling that comes with December.

To help you get into get into the holiday spirit, we’ve compiled a list of holiday events in the Charleston area to get you and your loved ones feeling jolly!

December 2-5: Winter Wonderland

This free pre-school event provides young children an opportunity to visit Santa, participate in hands-on activities, including holiday arts and crafts, and take part in live performances and music.

Here is more information on dates and times.

December 6: Christmas Festival and Parade

Looking for fun holiday family activities? The Christmas Festival is the perfect event! It includes a Holiday Market with children’s activities, craft and food vendors, and live musical performances on two stages.

The Christmas Parade begins at the corner of Montague and Mixson Avenues, proceeds down Montague, around Park Circle, and concludes at Armory Park. Immediately following the Christmas Parade, Mayor R. Keith Summey and Santa Claus will light the City’s Christmas tree located outside the front entrance of the Felix C. Davis Community Center.

Here is more information on the date and time.

December 12 & 19: Visit with the Clauses

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus! After visiting with the Clauses, enjoy live entertainment and fun holiday activities provided by community groups. A great event to create memories with your family!

For more information, visit their site.

December 14: 19^th Annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting

Charleston is all about tradition, and this parade is a holiday favorite every year! More than 100 floats will march down Coleman Boulevard as the Mount Pleasant Christmas Light Parade sets sail to the delight of thousands of residents and visitors! The tree lighting and fireworks display begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. at Moultrie Middle School, immediately followed by the parade beginning at around 5:45 p.m.

Here is more information on the date and time.

December 18: Men’s Shopping Night

Were you in the doghouse after last Christmas? This event provides gift counseling, personal shopping, and ideas for the special woman in your life. A great night with refreshments and Christmas shopping tailored to men!

Visit the site for more information.

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: Charleston events, Christmas in Charleston, Christmas parade, family events, Holidays, local events

Places to Stay Fit and Healthy in Charleston

November 18, 2014 by Gail

Every city has its “go-to” places to stay fit and healthy, and Charleston is no different. In fact, because of Charleston’s charm, the places shared below go above and beyond your average gym or healthy eatery.

Health and fitness have always been an important part of our world. From the use of natural herbs to thwart illnesses, to the ancient Eastern tradition of yoga, humans have a vast history that includes thousands of ways people lived and practiced healthy living.

However, in the recent decade, health has been front and center of our culture. Some would say the growth of the Internet led to the spread of important information about staying fit and healthy. And as a result of America’s deep interest in fitness and health, dozens of new health-focused businesses — as well as already established businesses — have successfully grown here in Charleston.

We’d like to highlight those below.

OrangeTheory Fitness

OrangeTheory Fitness applies a unique approach to working out.

According to their website, Orange Theory is:

Backed by the science of post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), our heart-rate monitored training is designed to keep heart rates in a target zone that stimulates metabolism and increases energy. The result is the Orange Effect – more energy, visible toning and extra calorie burn for up to 36 hours after your workout!

Their healthy living claim is they can “produce 12 to 20 minutes of training at 84% or higher of your maximum heart rate.” And we know a lot of Charleston locals and guests would be interested in getting better results in less time.

To try this unique approach to working out, check out OrangeTheory Fitness: http://www.orangetheoryfitness.com/

EcoFitness

EcoFitness is a locally owned and operated health club that offers:

Indoor cycling
Core Barre
Group exercising
Blue turtle yoga
Personal training

When we looked at their website, we discovered they have a ton of different activities and dozens of instructors to choose from. If you’re looking for flexibility in your workouts, and want to make sure you have a trainer available to fit your schedule, EcoFitness is worth checking out.

View more about EcoFitness on their contact page: http://www.ecofitness.com/about/contact/

Alluette’s Cafe (Holistic Soul Food)

Did you know there’s a southern food eatery in Charleston that’s both mouth-watering delicious AND healthy?

Alluette’s takes southern favorites and transforms them into healthier specialties by using natural ingredients. They also avoid frying their foods, yet they still find a way to make it just as good as the “real thing.”

Just about everything is homemade, including the ketchup and cole slaw (with no mayo). You can even finish off your meal with freshly baked vegan cookies — what a treat!

Hmm… farm fresh, vegan friendly, and tasty food. This one’s definitely staying on our list!

Find more info about Alluette’s here: http://www.alluettescafe.com/contact

Charleston Farmers Market

Last, but not least, on our list is the amazing Charleston Farmers Market. There was absolutely no way we could leave this one out.

At the Charleston Farmers Market, you’ll always find what’s in season. You can be sure to find the latest produce as well as live entertainment each Saturday at Marion Square. Come check it out!

Details and times included in the following link:

http://www.charlestonfarmersmarket.com/

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: health and wellness, health tips, healthy eating, healthy lifestyle, things to do in Charleston, womens health

Famous Landmarks in Charleston: Can’t-Miss Sights

October 28, 2014 by Gail

Charleston is a city with a lot of history, so there are undoubtedly many inspirational landmarks to visit. The problem is you might not even know what to explore in your own backyard—it’s easy to overlook something when you’re used to seeing it all the time. You may drive by one of the sights below each day without even realizing it! Get your notepad or Internet bookmarking tool ready, because we’re going to share some of Charleston’s can’t-miss and must-see sights.

Edmonston Alston House

You can tour this stately mansion built in 1825 seven days a week. Inside the home, you can discover historical family furnishings, silverware, books, and paintings that add Southern Charm and culture to this unique space. In addition to feeling like you’ve traveled back in time, you’ll also enjoy beautiful views of the harbor when you visit. View more here about this landmark here.

Rainbow Row

This one is hard to miss, but you may not know the history behind one of Charleston’s most photographed locations. These 13 brightly colored houses were once the commercial hub in the city! View more about Rainbow Row here.

H.L. Hunley Confederate Submarine

The history of this submarine dates back 150 years! In fact, this submarine was the first to sink another sea vessel. After years of research, scientists have finally figured out the technology behind this historic 8-person sub from the Civil War. You can find more info about this amazing relic of history here.

South Carolina Aquarium

With over 60 different habitats and a 385,000-gallon tank, the South Carolina Aquarium lets you explore the ocean without getting your feet wet. It’s conveniently located on the Charleston Harbor, so you can enjoy the view as you’re checking out the river otters, loggerhead sea turtles, alligators, great blue herons, jellyfish, horseshoe crabs, pythons, sharks, and many more creatures. View more info about the South Caroline Aquarium here.

Charleston Water Taxi

Enjoy this ferry service, go dolphin watching, or take in the harbor sites with the Charleston Water Taxi. Once you’re moving, you can get a new perspective of the USS Yorktown, historic downtown Charleston, and Patriots Point. The taxi runs every hour, so you can work a trip into your schedule whenever you want. Get onboard with the Charleston Water Taxi here.

USS Yorktown

Get close to the 10th aircraft carrier to serve in the United States Navy. This 30,000-ton structure is parked conveniently in Patriots Point, located in the beautiful Charleston harbor. Once onboard, you can walk around, take a tour, and even enjoy a meal at The Fighting Lady cafe! Get more info about the USS Yorktown and Patriots Point here.

There’s so much to do in Charleston!

Do you have a favorite place to visit in Charleston? Let us know in the comments. We’d love your help in locating more sights in this great city for locals and guests alike. Thanks in advance! Photo Credit: Sky Noir

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: Charleston events, healthy lifestyle, things to do in Charleston

Events to Raise Awareness

October 8, 2014 by Gail

Whew! Breast Cancer Awareness month is off to a running start here in Charleston! Just a few events we’re going to mention where we’ve lent our support – there are so many that I hope you can find your way to one of them to show your support of our sisters (and brothers) who have been affected by breast cancer.

Tonight! October 8, 2014 – 2^nd Annual Warriors Wear Pink Event at ALOFT Charleston Hotel & Convention Center from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Click the event flyer thumbnail for more details.

October 15, 2014 – BRA Day USA!! Learn more……

October 18, 2014 – Komen Lowcountry Race for the Cure – Family Circle Cup Stadium – Daniel Island, S.C.

October 19, 2014 – A Tickled Pink Reception: T-shirts & Stillettos – Presented by the Folly Road Church of Christ. 3:30 p.m. Experience a fun filled afternoon celebrating breast cancer survivors. Click the event flyer for more details.

Columbia Friends – SC FORCE Support Group Gathering – October 26, 2014, 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Richland country Main Library – Irwin Kahn Conference Room – 1431 Assembly Street – Columbia, S.C. 29201. Do you have a family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer? Have you tested positive for a BRCA mutation or are you considering genetic testing? You are not alone and we invite you to join us to find out more. http://www.facingourrisk.org/get-support/local-groups/south-carolina.php

Worship in Pink – Worship in Pink is a breast health education initiative for the Affiliate’s faith-based communities in an effort to reduce disparities seen in African-American, Hispanic and rural communities. The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is thrilled to be the Promise Partner for the Komen Lowcountry initiative again this year. Find out more….

What events do you plan to attend? We’d love to feature them on our next “Upcoming Events” or “All Things Charleston” post.

Filed Under: All Things Charleston, Upcoming Events Tagged With: breast cancer awareness, breast cancer event, Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, Charleston breast cancer events, FORCE, things to do in Charleston, warriors in pink

Last-Minute Weekend Activities Before The Summer Ends

September 10, 2014 by Gail

Are you the type of person who likes to eat every last crumb on the plate, drink the last drop of milk, or watch a movie until the credits finish?

If so, then you like to get the most value out of any given situation. While most people do a decent to good job at saving time and maximizing money, people like you do it better.

With this short guide below, you can make the most of your time and money and squeeze every last drop out of the Charleston summer!

Here are several ways to enjoy last-minute weekend trips in the area before the summer ends.

Ride the Waves

Surfing, like skydiving, is one of those “bucket list” activities everyone wants to try, but few take the time to do. The benefits of surfing include getting exercise, having fun, and immersing yourself in the beach culture. Don’t waste another minute procrastinating by thinking about surfing — get yourself a board, head out to Folly Beach, and hit the water while you can.

With one-on-one lessons as low as $45, you can consider yourself a surfer by the end of the day. You’ll learn ocean awareness and safety, surfing etiquette (which includes more than calling people “dude”), and enjoy one full hour of guided wave riding fun.

Surf on over to this website for more info about Charleston Surf Lessons.

Become a Prisoner!

And no, we don’t mean you commit a crime and literally get yourself in trouble. That would not be fun and it would totally ruin your summer …and winter, spring, and fall. We’d like to suggest something that’s almost as scary, yet much safer.

If exploring Charleston dungeons appeal to you, then you’ll love the Charleston Ghost and Dungeon Walking Tour. During this guided walkthrough of historical cemeteries, alleyways, and churches, you’ll learn about the criminals, pirates, and patriots who once spent time behind bars—and if you listen closely, you may realize they’re still there…

This tour is available until November; the ghosts in these dungeons are like bears, so during winter, they like to hibernate.

Scare yourself with a Charleston Ghost and Dungeon Walking Tour.

Go On an Adventure

Before summer ends, you still have time to pack your bags, tent, and camping supplies and head out to the great outdoors. Summer is the perfect time to experience the wilderness because the weather’s just right. No matter if you take your entire family or you go with friends, South Carolina has 47 state parks for you to choose from.

With this handy website, you can search and choose a camping ground that meets your exact needs.

Live It Up

Take a moment and think about one thing you can do for yourself and your family this summer. It doesn’t have to be one of these recommendations — you may have your own activites planned for transitioning from the warm summer days to the cool autumn nights. Maybe you’ll rotate what you’re growing in your garden. Maybe you’ll take a trip. Maybe you’ll redecorate your home, or even try a new sport. Whatever you do, live it up this summer. It’ll be an entire year before she returns.

Photo Credit: globetraveler2

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: Charleston events, Charleston SC, healthy lifestyle, things to do in Charleston

Date Night in Charleston: Romantic Spots for Two

September 3, 2014 by Gail

You don’t need to go to Paris to experience a city of romance. If you know where to look, Charleston has all the warmth, love, and coziness you need. Maybe the heart of Charleston beats stronger because of the city’s rich history. Or perhaps it’s the culture of the city that makes visitors welcome each other with open arms. Whatever the reason, there are many places to go, things to see, and experiences to share with your special someone in Charleston.

In this post, we’ll look at some popular — and some hidden — places to go to have a fun and unique date (on a related note, our top 5 restaurants and bars post may serve you well on date night).

You may have heard of the recommendations on this post before, but you just haven’t had the time to pursue them. Let this list below be your motivation to get out there and share a day of fun or evening of romance with someone special.

Cocktails By the Fireplace

If you like this idea of sipping your favorite drink next to your favorite person, while enjoying the warmth of a cozy fireplace, then you’ll love this recommendation. A little investigative research on Google and Yelp will uncover many cozy evening bars.

Want to save time searching? No problem. We found this place that we believe provides the perfect date night. It has a fireplace you can snuggle up next to, and a dimly lit setting to relax in.

Be sure to call in McCrady’s in advance to research your seat. They also have an online reservation tool, so you have no excuse not to plan ahead for this special place.

Celebrate New Milestones

In a relationship, new milestones can mean different things. It could mean getting married, moving in together, or eating at a new restaurant. With this upcoming recommendation, you can surprise your partner by saying you want to celebrate something BIG.

Chances are, they’ll look at you confused. But when you tell them you want to have drinks and enjoy the skyline and harbor views at the Market Pavilion Hotel, they’ll likely laugh at your corny joke. Laughter and good times will continue when you enjoy the charming rooftop bar and pool area while sipping a cocktail as you the two of you watch the sun go down. Plus – the Market Pavilion Hotel earned a number 1 ranking as the best small city hotel in the U.S. and Canada. What could be better? Your sweetheart will love your venue choice.

Walk the Path of Love

Take a break from the stoplights and city noise and reconnect with nature. You and you partner deserve it. Surround yourself with majestic oaks and ancient beauty at the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, a place where you can tune out from the city and tune in to each other.

Best Dates Charleston Facebook Page

On this Best Dates Charleston Facebook page, you will find regular updates about things to do in Charleston. We love lesser known yet valuable links like this. Do you have any to share? Let us know in the comments below.

Live and Love in Charleston

Did you know Travel and Leisure magazine rated Charleston the 10th best city in the world for romance? Personally, we think it’s the #1 city, but we’ll take the 10th place IN THE WORLD. We love how the magazine says, “Every corner seems to stage a proposal-worthy scene, form the Battery with its moss-draped oaks and antebellum mansions to Waterfront Park’s picturesque Cooper River views.”

We completely agree with that statement – and we know you do too.

Photo Credit: Parvin