Finding Beauty After Breast Cancer: Register for a Free Class at Sephora

 

 Our surgeons and staff at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction know firsthand how difficult a battle with breast cancer can be.

From the moment you’re diagnosed, everything changes. Your emotional, mental, and psychological health is instantly impacted. And throughout your breast cancer journey, your physical appearance is also bound to change.

This transformation can unfortunately leave a lot of woman no longer feeling confident in their own skin.

While we believe that all women—no matter their journey—are beautiful, we also know that a little pampering and some fun with makeup can go a long way in making you feel radiant and confident.

With National Breast Cancer Awareness month in full swing, there are numerous educational talks, fundraisers, and events going on. If you’re in the Charleston, SC, area, we’d like to personally invite you to a special event at Sephora on King Street.

We are joining forces with Sephora in order to promote their FREE Brave Beauty class for women who have battled cancer.

The event will take place on Sunday, October 29, at 6:30 p.m. at the Sephora on King Street. The official address is 289 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401.

This 90-minute Brave Beauty class is designed to help you discover techniques and products that address the visible effects of your cancer treatments.

During this event, you’ll be given skincare tips tailored to your needs and then will be matched with Color IQ and receive step-by-step instructions for a creating a radiant complexion, natural-looking brows, and defined eyes.

If you’re interested in attending, we encourage you to check out this awesome video from Sephora that features cancer survivor Emily as she explains why attending a Brave Beauty class is a great way to celebrate how beautiful you truly are.

Watch the video here!

If you’re interested in signing up, please contact us at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction to register, and we will pass your information along to the event host.

You can get in touch with us here.

Do you have any tips or tricks for feeling confident and radiant after a battle with cancer?

Share them with us in the comments below!

Charleston Holiday Events

christmas ornaments

The holidays are such a special time of year in Charleston—there’s just that feeling of indescribable magic in the air.

The beautiful Christmas lights, lit menorahs, and festive store displays—the holidays brings so much joy and fun.

We’ve compiled a list of holiday events in the Charleston area to get you and your loved ones in the spirit.

December 2—Historic Holiday Event at The Charleston Museum

The Charleston Museum is hosting their annual Holiday Workshop. Children can sip on hot chocolate and cookies, while they decorate the exhibit and create decorations to bring home.

This event is free for members and only $5 for non-members.

For more event information, click here. 

December 4—A Night in Wine Country: Taste, Shop, Stroll King Street

Shopping and wine—what’s not to love?!

Stroll King Street’s unique shops offering a preferred shopping experience, and enjoy reserve wine tastings at every store—plus hors d’oeuvres from local restaurateurs.

Tickets are $50 per person.

For more event information, click here.

December 6—35th Annual Charleston Christmas Parade

Be sure to attend the 35th Annual Charleston Christmas Parade! The parade will begin at 2:00 p.m. starting at Broad and Barre Street, and ends with Santa’s arrival at Marion Square on the corner of Calhoun and King Street.

For more event information, click here. 

December 8—Vienna Boys Choir

The highly anticipated Vienna Boys Choir will be coming to the Charleston Gaillard Center. This prestigious choir group was founded in 1498, and their beautiful voices are now heard around the world.

For more event information, click here.

December 10-11—Sounds of Season Concert

We’re proud sponsors of Charleston County School of the Arts Vocal Department’s Sounds of the Season concert performances along with the SOA Orchestra. Each year the concerts are absolutely fantastic, and the talent is truly impressive. These performances usually sell-out both night—be sure to get your tickets early!

For more event information, click here. 

Did we forget one of your favorite Charleston holiday events? Share below!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Events

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October is a big month for the Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction team and our wonderful patients—and we’re making it a celebration!

In case you didn’t get the hint from the pink ribbons taking over Charleston, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Supporting this cause is so dear to our hearts, and we want to let our readers know about some fantastic events happening in our area this month.

We can’t wait to see what great things October brings!

October 2—Susan G. Komen Lowcountry’s Swing for the Cure

This year we are a proud sponsor of the October 2 Susan G. Komen Lowcountry’s Swing for the Cure event—a tennis and golf fundraiser that supports the fight against breast cancer.

The weekend festivities will be kicked off with an Oyster Roast and Barbecue at The Lettered Olive Restaurant in Wild Dunes.

Click here for more information.

October 5, 12—Dr. Kline Talking Natural Breast Reconstruction

On October 5 and 12, you may see our very own Dr. Kline on Channel 4 talking all things Breast Reconstruction!

Click here for a sneak peek.

October 17—KOMEN LOWCOUNTRY RACE FOR THE CURE®

This event is always a BLAST. 100% of the net proceeds are allocated to supporting the local breast cancer community.

There are a variety of walks and runs for every skill level—even one for kids!

The race takes place at the Family Circle Stadium, and the gates open at 7 a.m.

Click here for more information.

October 23—Pink Day with Panera Bread

Be sure to head to one of the 3 Panera Bread locations participating in Pink Day. The Tanger Mall, Citadel Mall, and Main Street locations will be decked out in pink and providing pink ribbon bagels available for purchase. Delicious food and supporting a good cause are two of our favorite things!

Click here for more information.

For more on Breast Cancer Awareness Month, visit our Facebook page.

Upcoming Charleston Summer Events

couple dancing on the beach at sunsetPhoto Credit: Harold Heindell Tejada

Summer in Charleston is unlike anywhere else.

There’s just some unexplainable shift in the air that brings locals and tourists out in droves to participate in uniquely Lowcountry events.

There are truly so many things to do and see this summer—it starts to get overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve decided to share these 5 upcoming Charleston events to make this an unforgettable summer!

Party in the Park

Bring your lawn chair and blankets to Mt. Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park for “Party in the Park” to kick back and enjoy the live music and food vendors put on by 103.5 WEZL. It’s always a great time!

Information:

Dates: every Tuesday night in June

Time: 6:00-9:00 p.m.

Cost: Free admission

Additional info: no dogs, coolers, umbrellas, or tents.

Yappy Hour

Bring your furry friend and enjoy live music and drinks, while the pups get to mingle! Yappy Hour takes place at the James Island County Dog Park.

Information:

Dates: June 16 and July 9

Time: 4:00-8:00 p.m.

Cost: $1 per person for park admission or free for Gold Pass Members.

Additional info: Outside food, alcohol, and coolers are prohibited. IDs are required for alcohol purchases.

Naturalization Ceremony at Middleton Plantation

An annual event to commemorate Arthur Middleton’s birthday, the Naturalization Ceremony has become a highly anticipated summer event. The ceremony on the stunning grounds of Middleton Plantation is a reminder of the varied makeup of our nation’s citizenry—whether through natural birth or naturalization—creating the cultural melting pot that is the United States.

Information:

Date: June 26

Time: The ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m.

Cost: Attendance is free with paid admission to the Middleton Plantation.

Additional Info: Following the Naturalization Ceremony, everyone is welcome to explore the gorgeous Middleton Place Gardens, House Museum, and Stableyards.

Shaggin’ on the Cooper

Slip on your dancing shoes and head to the Mount Pleasant Pier to dance the night away to some great live music! Enjoy the water view, bring your friends, grab a bite to eat and a beverage, and dance your cares away at Shaggin’ on the Cooper.

Information:

Dates: July 4, 18, and August 15

Time: Gates open at 7:00 p.m.

Cost: $10 at the gate/$8 for Charleston residents with advance purchase.

Additional Info: Outside alcohol and coolers are prohibited.

9th Annual Sizzling Southern Celebration

Looking for July 4 plans? Join Circa 1886 for the 9th Annual Sizzling Southern Celebration and enjoy music, lawn games, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar during cocktail hour. Next, the event will move inside, and guests will sit down to a delicious 3-course “Grill Dinner.” After dark, guests will venture outside to the cupola with a glass of champagne to watch Charleston’s firework show!

Information:

Date: July 4

Time: Outside cocktail hour begins at 6:00 p.m.

Cost: $75 per person, price excludes tax, gratuity, and additional beverages.

Additional Info: Reservations required.

Let us know your summer plans on our Facebook page!

 

Upcoming Breast Cancer Events in Charleston

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The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is so proud to be a part of the Charleston, SC, community, which continues to support local women and breast cancer awareness with amazing events and fundraisers.

We encourage you to show your support at these upcoming events in our area for a cause that is dear to our hearts.

April 8—Pink Out Night for The Cure!

Show your support and pink out the stadium at the Family Circle Cup. This fun event raises funds for the Susan G. Komen Lowcountry organization. Wear your best pink attire, and $1 will be donated to help find a cure. Any survivor sporting their 2014 Race for the Cure t-shirt will receive a free general admission!

The gates open at 5 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m.

For more information, visit the website.

April 11-12—Women living with metastatic breast cancer

Living Beyond Cancer is hosting their annual conference for women living with metastatic breast cancer. This 2-day event provides support, resources, and information to help those with stage IV breast cancer.

The doctors, researchers, nurses, and mental health providers all provide the most cutting-edge information. This is a great opportunity to meet others and be in the company of those who truly understand the struggles of living with metastatic breast cancer.

For more information, visit the website.

May 23—Rock Pink 5k 

This evening race is TONS of fun! From the pink glow necklaces, to the 80s rock band and outfits, to the body paint—this is the place to be! This 5k run/walk embodies the spirit of the cause.  All proceeds go to the Susan G. Komen Lowcountry organization.

For registration information, visit the website. 

Please share this information with your friends on social media!

Charleston Events to Get into the Holiday Spirit

poinsettasThe 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: 19th 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.

 

Famous Landmarks in Charleston: Can’t-Miss Sights

<alt+"Bridge"/>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

Last-Minute Weekend Activities Before The Summer Ends

<alt="sail boat"/>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

Date Night in Charleston: Romantic Spots for Two

<alt="red rose"/>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

September: Charleston Events Roundup

<alt="arial act"/>The year is almost over! Time goes by quickly when you’re having fun, right? Thanks to these exciting Charleston events for September, it will be October before you know it. Don’t miss these opportunities to have some fun!

 

September 1: Beating the Surf

Join Capt. Ben Floyd at 6:30 p.m. at the Mt. Pleasant shop, as he covers everything from rod & reel selection, to bait and tackle, to which tides work in your favor. Surf Fishing is a great way to get anglers of all ages catching fish. Whether it’s bull redfish or bull sharks, the surf has it all.

Come enjoy a few drinks, learn some new skills and enjoy 10% off everything during the night of the seminar.

To register, please e-mail jj@thecharlestonangler.com. For more information, please visit this website.  

 

September 2, 7, 9, 14, 17, 21, 26, 30: Sherlock Holmes and the Charleston History Mystery

Join Sherlock Holmes for an Historical City Tour truly for everyone — where without ever leaving your theatre seat you will explore Charleston’s past, present, and … other worlds. Should you choose to volunteer, you may actually participate and play a victim, villain, or vile vision in The Case of Sherlock Holmes and the Charleston History Mystery!

$24 Adults, $22 College/Military, $15 Children 12 and Under.

Please see the website for showtimes and to purchase tickets.

 

September – Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday: Evenings in the Market

The weekly event, designed to showcase local artists, food vendors and designers, is from 6:30-10:30 p.m. every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from March through December.

For additional information, please visit this website.  

 

September 6: Downward Facing RiverDog

Come and enjoy some yoga at the Joe! International Yoga Instructor, Kathryn Budig, will be at the Joe teaching some yoga moves on the field. Gates open at 9 a.m. Yoga on the field is from 10-11 a.m. There will be free parking, live music by Estee Gabay and a cash bar featuring mimosas and bloody marys. All levels are welcome. The class will be playful and enjoyable for all. $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

For more information, please visit the website.  

 

September – Every Wednesday: Fall Wine Strolls

Sip and stroll in a different garden location each week while sampling old and new world wines. The season ends with a Masquerade Wine Stroll Finale on October 29!

Time: 6 – 8 p.m.

Cost: $20/online, $25/gate ($5 off for Foundation members).

For more information, please visit the website.

 

September 14: Dance with Dragons

The 2nd Annual Dance with Dragons offers a beautiful evening of outdoor circus arts performances including hooping, acroyoga, serial silks, slacklining, and juggling playshops. Spectate, play, perform, gawk, share, and make new friends. You might be tempted to run away to the circus afterwards!

This year’s even benefits Dragon Boat Charleston, a non-profit that promotes physical and mental wellness among local cancer survivors and their community.

4:00 p.m .- 8:00 p.m.

$5 for adults, kids attend free.

For more information, please visit the website.

 

September 20: 2014 Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Held annually in more than 650 communities nationwide, this inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to reclaim the future for millions. The Charleston walk will take place at the Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina.

Registration at 8:00 a.m. | Ceremony at 8:45 a. m. | Walk at 9:00 a.m.

Route Length: 3 miles.

To register, please visit the website.

 

September 19-21: 7th Annual Autumn on the Ashley

The Tri-County Master Gardeners will host the 7th Annual Autumn on the Ashley open-air craft fair Sept. 19-21 at Magnolia. More than 50 vendors are expected to exhibit wood cravings, paintings, textiles, pottery, jewelry, culinary oils, and photographs. The Philip Simmons Artists Blacksmith Guild will demonstrate their craft while dancers entertain the crowd.

Autumn on the Ashley, which is free to the public, opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. A $100 vendor fee will be charged for a vendor booth space to display handcrafted items. No retail items will be allowed. Vendors are responsible for their own pop-up tent, tables and chairs. Vendors who require electricity are encouraged to register early. Eight spaces with electricity are available.

The Master Gardeners will answer gardening questions and provide soil samples. The cost for a soil analysis is $6 each. Call 843-722-5940 to get tips on how to collect a sample. Plants and gardening books will be on sale.

For information and to reserve a booth, call Magnolia’s operations manager Mary Ann Johnson at 843-571-1266, extension 229. You can also visit this website.