Author: Charleston Daily

The Chisolm-Alston House at 172 Tradd Street Is Now Available for Purchase  – A Landmark Offering of Architectural and Historical Significance

Charleston, S.C. –  One of Charleston’s most architecturally distinguished private residences, the Chisolm-Alston House at 172 Tradd Street, has officially entered the market, marking an extraordinary opportunity to own a cornerstone of Charleston’s historic South of Broad neighborhood.

Listed by Robertson Allen, Founding Partner of The Cassina Group, this Greek Revival masterpiece was built in 1834 and has been meticulously restored and enhanced to honor its original grandeur while embracing the comforts of modern luxury.

From its rare Corinthian columns that were inspired by the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens to its interiors curated by celebrated designer Carolyne Roehm, every inch of this home reflects thoughtful preservation and refined sophistication.

“This is unquestionably one of the most significant and beautifully preserved residences in Charleston,” says Allen. “It reflects the architectural and cultural depth that define our city, offering a rare opportunity to steward a true legacy property.”

The property is newly listed for sale, a rare market debut that presents an exceptional opportunity. Designed by Prussian-trained architect Charles F. Reichardt, the home is a landmark example of Greek Revival architecture in the American South. The facade is defined by its towering Corinthian columns, a distinctive architectural reference almost never seen in residential design.

Inside, the home has been transformed by Carolyne Roehm, style icon and lifestyle maven, with an eye for historic detail and layered elegance in every room. Fabric-upholstered walls, curated wallpapers, and artisan finishes create a warm yet refined atmosphere in every direction you look. The residence features a dramatic flying staircase, soaring 12-foot ceilings, and 4-inch thick cypress doors that speak to the home’s enduring quality and craftsmanship.

The grounds are equally distinguished, with mature live oaks, magnolias, palmettos, and camellias arranged within a thoughtfully planned garden. The gourmet kitchen is well-appointed with custom cabinetry, double ovens, an expansive island, extremely large walk-in pantry, and breakfast area, perfectly suited for both intimate living and entertaining.

Adding further intrigue, the property once fronted the Ashley River before Charleston’s early 20th-century land reclamation efforts reshaped the peninsula, offering a rare, tangible connection to Charleston’s evolving geography. During the Civil War, this stretch of the river was part of the broader maritime theater that saw the emergence of Confederate torpedo boats. These semi-submersible vessels with spar-mounted explosives, like the CSS Midge and CSS Scorpion, patrolled Charleston’s waterways in an attempt to breach the Union blockade. This extraordinary legacy adds depth to 172 Tradd Street’s story, linking it to both Charleston’s architectural heritage and the broader sweep of American history.

Located on one of the most desirable residential streets in Charleston, 172 Tradd Street is a large, private sanctuary and a living piece of architectural history. It is now available for private showings to qualified buyers.

Media outlets and editorial partners interested in previewing the home or arranging exclusive feature coverage are encouraged to contact Robertson Allen, Listing Agent, directly or Angela Tice, Marketing Director. Media inquiries, interviews, and high-resolution assets are available upon request.

With a proven track record of delivering exceptional results locally, nationally, and internationally, The Cassina Group continues to set the standard in the Charleston and surrounding area real estate markets. With 54 REALTORS®, The Cassina Group had a banner year for 2024, achieving nearly $586 million in closed transactions. For 2025, they are on pace for another remarkable year with over $235 Million in closed sales through the end of April 2025.

The Cassina Group is a leading luxury real estate brokerage with offices in Charleston, SC and Mount Pleasant, SC. The firm is managed by founding partners and Brokers-In-Charge, Jimmy Dye and Robertson Allen. For more information, visit TheCassinaGroup.com or call 843.628.0008.

Click HERE for detailed listing.

Photos Credit: Keen Eye Marketing

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This collaboration builds on a long-standing, positive relationship between Charleston Animal Society and Berkeley County.

In a bold step to enhance animal welfare services and prepare for regional growth, Charleston Animal Society has entered into a partnership with Berkeley County to manage operations at the Berkeley Animal Center. The Berkeley County Council voted to approve the partnership at the county council meeting on May 27, 2025.

The new partnership will take effect July 1, 2025.

Enhanced Details

In a bold step to enhance animal welfare services and prepare for regional growth, Charleston Animal Society has entered into a partnership with Berkeley County to manage operations at the Berkeley Animal Center. The Berkeley County Council voted to approve the partnership at the county council meeting on May 27, 2025. The new partnership will take effect July 1, 2025.

“This collaboration builds on a long-standing, positive relationship between Charleston Animal Society and Berkeley County,” said Berkeley County Supervisor Johnny Cribb. “With a shared commitment to animal welfare and community service, the partnership reflects more than a year and a half of careful planning and discussion.”

The move comes at a critical time for the tri-county area, where rapid population growth is placing increased pressure on animal services.

“Our region is growing fast, and that includes a rising population of dogs and cats,” said Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore. “By joining forces with Berkeley County, we can better serve our communities, reduce duplication of services, and respond more efficiently to the needs of animals and residents alike.”

Charleston Animal Society already provides services to more than 2,000 Berkeley County residents each year. This partnership allows both organizations to utilize shared veterinary and sheltering expertise more effectively—especially important during the ongoing national shortage of veterinarians. Combining efforts will streamline services, reduce confusion in communities that span multiple counties, and create a single, cohesive system for animal welfare across county lines.

TRANSITION BEGINS JULY 1

Charleston Animal Society will assume the current operating budget for Berkeley Animal Center, which stands at approximately $1.6 million for Fiscal Year 2026. By consolidating efforts, the organizations anticipate a reduction in duplicated services, leading to smarter spending and improved outcomes for animals and residents.

The current staff of Berkeley Animal Center will transition to become Charleston Animal Society employees, operating under Charleston Animal Society’s policies and procedures. Volunteers will also be welcomed into the Charleston Animal Society family, with all continuing their vital roles in the care and adoption of animals in the community.

“We are proud of the team at Berkeley Animal Center and value their dedication,” said Elmore. “This partnership is not about replacing—it’s about enhancing what already works and building on it.” Charleston Animal Society built the first No Kill county in the Southeast and will work toward that in Berkeley County.

While the facility will continue to be known as the Berkeley Animal Center for the foreseeable future, any potential name or branding changes will be communicated publicly, along with any updates regarding operating hours or social media channels.

Animal control operations will continue in close coordination with local Animal Control Agencies across Berkeley County. Charleston Animal Society will work with these partners to ensure a smooth and effective transition. Stray animal handling and in-shelter veterinary care will continue to meet or exceed the national Association of Shelter Veterinarians guidelines for standards of care in animal shelters.

A WIN FOR ANIMALS

A strong emphasis will be placed on maintaining and growing key programs like the Trap-Vaccinate-Alter-Return (TVAR) initiative, which has been highly successful in managing community cat populations. With Charleston Animal Society’s enhanced spay-neuter capacity, the goal is to mitigate overpopulation and ensure a healthier future for animals throughout the region.

“This partnership unites the largest and fourth largest animal shelters in South Carolina—Charleston Animal Society and Berkeley Animal Center—and has the potential to serve as a model for other communities across the state exploring public-private collaborations,” said Cribb.

“We need to applaud this forward-thinking county council for creating a more responsive, unified, and effective approach to animal care,” said Elmore. “This is a win for taxpayers, a win for our communities, and most of all, a win for the animals.”

Charleston Animal Society invites the community to follow updates on this exciting partnership and to continue supporting the mission of preventing cruelty to animals and promoting the humane treatment of all.

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Photo Credit: Charleston Animal Society and Charleston Daily

Today, the City of Charleston announced the launch of a Hospitality Worker Parking Pilot Program, a new initiative designed to provide limited free parking access for hospitality employees who work on the Peninsula. This pilot effort aims to test a model that could be scaled up in the future to support more workers in Charleston’s vital hospitality industry. 

Beginning Monday, May 12, applications will open for Peninsula hospitality businesses (restaurants, bars, hotels/lodging) to request parking permits for their employees. Only business owners or general managers may apply, with each business eligible to request up to five permits. The application period runs through May 30, and parking access for approved permit holders will begin on June 1, 2025. 

“This pilot program is a first step toward addressing a challenge hospitality workers have faced for years—reliable, affordable access to parking near their jobs,” said Mayor William Cogswell. “We’re starting small to ensure the system works, but our goal is to build on this and expand it to reach more workers in the near future.” 

The program provides access to 70 designated spaces located at Union Pier Lot B (196 Concord Street). These spaces are available 24/7 for permitted users and will be clearly marked. While the permit cost is $15, parking in the lot is free for all approved permit holders. Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are subject to City parking rules and regulations. 

Applications may be submitted in two ways: 

• By email to: servicelotb@charleston-sc.gov 
• In person at: 180 Lockwood Boulevard, Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 
  (Note: In-person submissions are for drop-off only. Staff will not review applications at the time of drop-off.) 

Additionally, permits are not vehicle-specific and may be shared among employees at a business, provided they are properly managed. Once issued, permits should be kept on-site at the business and made available to staff as needed. The business is responsible for distributing and collecting permits to ensure proper use. 

To further support the program, CARTA has reinstated its HOP (Hospitality on Peninsula) route, which will operate pickups from Union Pier Lot B to transport workers throughout the Peninsula. This service makes it easier and more convenient for hospitality workers to access jobs across downtown from the parking lot. 

City officials emphasize that this is a pilot program—a temporary initiative intended to evaluate the effectiveness of targeted parking support for hospitality workers. Feedback from participating businesses will be used to help shape a future, larger-scale program. 

For more information and to access the application starting May 12, please visit this link. 

Questions can be directed to servicelotb@charleston-sc.gov. 

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Empowering Youth SC leads statewide initiative to uplift and equip South Carolina’s next generation of leaders

CHARLESTON, S.C. — Empowering Youth SC (EYSC) proudly announces that South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has officially proclaimed June 2025 as Youth Empowerment Month, a statewide recognition of the critical role young people play in shaping the future of the Palmetto State.

The proclamation — procured by EYSC — celebrates the contributions and potential of South Carolina’s youth, while encouraging communities to provide opportunities that foster growth, leadership, and lifelong success.

“Youth Empowerment Month allows us to highlight the good happening in our backyard,” says Alli Stovall, Miss Clarendon 2025 and EYSC Community Engagement Series moderator and workshop facilitator. “We are currently raising the next transplant surgeons, lawmakers, and teachers. This initiative amplifies the impact of organizations like Empowering Youth SC that are helping young people find the tools they need to build a better life for themselves. Together, we can empower and equip the next generation with the skills and tools they need to thrive.”

June marks a transitional season for youth across South Carolina, with the close of the school year ushering in new routines and, for many, new challenges. Youth Empowerment Month shines a light on those at risk of being disconnected from vital resources and support during summer months and encourages communities to step up.

“Too many young people are struggling with stress, isolation, or a lack of access to basic resources,” said Wendy Methvin, Executive Director of Empowering Youth SC. “This proclamation not only acknowledges the challenges youth face but also honors the community partners working to change the narrative. Youth Empowerment Month is about connection — to support, to opportunity, and to hope.”

Through programs such as the Elev8Gen Workshop Series, Community Engagement Series, and its resource platform ResourceSC.org, EYSC is providing year-round opportunities for young people and families to access tools that build confidence, character, and resilience.

State leaders see this initiative as more than symbolic — it’s an investment in the state’s future workforce and community health.

South Carolina Lt. Governor Pamela Evette emphasized the broader impact of youth empowerment: “When we invest in our young people, we’re investing in South Carolina’s economic future. Empowered youth become engaged citizens, skilled workers, and innovative leaders. Youth Empowerment Month helps create a pipeline of talent by connecting young people to programs that inspire growth and prepare them for tomorrow’s opportunities.”

The Governor’s Proclamation affirms this mission, recognizing the month of June as a pivotal time to amplify youth-focused efforts and foster inclusive, supportive environments where all young people can thrive.

Empowering Youth SC will be commemorating Youth Empowerment Month with a series of awareness and engagement efforts throughout June. One such event, a private fundraiser for supporters and partners, will be held June 18 at Saltwater Cowboys in Mount Pleasant. Proceeds will support programs that equip youth with essential life and leadership skills.

About Empowering Youth SC

Empowering Youth SC bridges the gap by equipping young people with the confidence, life, and leadership skills they need to thrive in school, work, and life — before challenges become crises. Through dynamic programs, school-based workshops, and community events, EYSC connects with youth where they are and empowers them to lead lives grounded in purpose and resilience.

To learn more or to get involved during Youth Empowerment Month, visit www.empoweringyouthsc.org.

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston, South Carolina is has developed a national and international reputation for fine dining and cuisine.   Yet, in the heart of this Southern retreat, a Pakistini restaurant stands out as a model of quality and excellence, Ma’am Saab located at 251 Meeting Street, the site of the former Southern cooking local favorite Jestine’s Kitchen.

Ma’am Saab offers a remarkable dining experience centered on generational Pakistani recipes, unique cocktails, and exceptional customer service. Located in the historic district, this modern Pakistani restaurant and bar brings the rich culinary heritage of Pakistan to life with a contemporary twist, led by Chef Maryam Ghaznavi.

Generational Recipes with a Modern Twist

Ma’am Saab’s menu is deeply rooted in traditional Pakistani flavors, drawing from recipes that date back to the Mughal era. Signature dishes like Butter Chicken, Chicken Biryani, Lamb Karahi, and Lamb Samosas showcase the vibrant spices and rich sauces that define Pakistani cuisine. These recipes have been thoughtfully refined to appeal to modern palates while preserving their authentic essence. 

Guests often praise the balance of bold flavors and tender textures, such as the creamy, spice-infused Butter Chicken and fragrant, saffron-laced Biryani.

Unique Cocktails and Beverage Offerings

The restaurant complements its food with a creative beverage menu featuring vibrant cocktails that blend South Asian ingredients with Southern charm. 

Their happy hour offers inventive drinks alongside craft cocktails, including mango lassis that cool the palate and specialty concoctions that pair beautifully with the bold spices of the cuisine. 

These expertly crafted cocktails are a key part of the lively and inviting atmosphere.

Amazing Customer Experience

Ma’am Saab is celebrated not only for its food but also for its warm, attentive service and welcoming ambiance. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, often providing expert recommendations to enhance the dining experience. The décor combines exposed brick, floral wallpaper, and ultraviolet lighting to create a vibrant yet cozy setting that invites guests to relax and savor their meal. 

The seamless service and the family-style sharing approach, which fosters a communal and memorable experience.

Ma’am Saab in Charleston stands out by offering a unique fusion of generational Pakistani recipes with modern culinary techniques, a distinctive cocktail program, and an outstanding customer experience that captures the spirit of both Pakistan and Southern hospitality.

Ma’am Saab is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Stay connected on Instagram.

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 By Mark A Leon

Bowen’s Island Restaurant, located at 1870 Bowen’s Island Road, Charleston, SC, offers a unique, rustic dining experience that has become a beloved local institution since its founding in 1946. The vibe is casual and unpretentious, with a setting that feels like a laid-back fish camp rather than a traditional restaurant. 

The building itself is a charming collection of weathered cinder blocks and wooden boards covered in layers of graffiti, reflecting decades of visitors’ marks and stories. This atmosphere creates a sense of community and history, making it more than just a place to eat—it’s a cultural experience and a state of mind.

The restaurant is famous for its oysters, which are harvested locally and roasted under burlap on a smoky pit. Unlike the polished oyster presentations found elsewhere, Bowen’s serves oysters in their natural, rustic form, often clumped together with silt intact. Diners shuck their own oysters at the table, adding to the hands-on, authentic feel. 

The only condiment offered is a spicy cocktail sauce recipe handed down from the original owner, May Bowen, and many patrons bring their own butter to enhance the flavor. This no-frills approach highlights the freshness and quality of the seafood itself.

Here are five reasons to dine at Bowen’s Island Restaurant:

• Authentic Local Seafood: The menu features fresh, local oysters, fried shrimp, crab cakes, and the Lowcountry specialty Frogmore stew, showcasing the best of Charleston’s coastal cuisine.

• Historic and Rustic Ambiance: The graffiti-covered walls and simple picnic-style seating create a unique, nostalgic atmosphere that transports guests back to an old-school oyster roast tradition.

• Waterfront Views: Situated on a 13-acre island on Folly Creek, the restaurant offers beautiful sunset views that complement the dining experience perfectly.

• Casual, Family-Owned Charm: Operated by the Bowen family for generations, the restaurant maintains a welcoming, down-to-earth vibe that feels like dining with old friends.

• Award-Winning Reputation: Recognized by the James Beard Foundation as an American Classic and praised by Coastal Living and Southern Living, Bowen’s Island Restaurant is celebrated for its cultural and culinary significance.

Bowen’s Island Restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking an authentic, relaxed, and historic dining experience with stunning views and a strong connection to Charleston’s coastal heritage.

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Photo Credit: Charleston Daily and Bowen’s Island Restaurant

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Homanit, a leading manufacturer of wood materials, today announced it selects Clarendon County to establish the company’s U.S. manufacturing operation. The $250 million investment will create 300 new jobs.

Headquartered in Germany, Homanit is a leading European manufacturer of medium- and high-density wood fiberboards for furniture, automotive, door and coating industries worldwide. The company currently operates production facilities in Germany, Lithuania and Poland.

Homanit’s new facility, located at 1200 Spigner Road in Alcolu, will produce its fiberboards for U.S.-based customers.

Operations are expected to be online in 2028.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.

QUOTES

“We are incredibly grateful for the warm welcome and strong support we’ve received from the Clarendon County community, the state of South Carolina and Governor McMaster. This investment marks a significant milestone for our company, and we’re proud to become part of such a vibrant and forward-looking region. The area’s skilled workforce, strategic location and strong infrastructure make Clarendon County the ideal foundation for our next phase of growth in North America.” -Homanit Managing Director Fritz Homann

“South Carolina’s workforce has proven itself to be one of the best in the world and continues attracting major investments to our state. Homanit’s decision to invest in Clarendon County and create an impressive 300 new jobs in the community will greatly benefit our state and our people for many years to come.” -Gov. Henry McMaster 

“Homanit’s announcement to establish such a large operation in Clarendon County represents a tremendous vote of confidence in our state’s forestry and manufacturing industries. This significant $250 million investment and the opportunities it brings to a rural area will have a lasting impact. Congratulations to Homanit and Clarendon County on this remarkable accomplishment.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“I’m pleased to welcome Homanit as the newest member of South Carolina’s thriving agribusiness industry. This company will support our state’s timber farmers at a critical time and offer quality jobs in a rural part of our state.” -Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers

“Homanit’s sizable investment – the largest forest products manufacturing announcement in the state in more than three years – is welcome news, particularly for our pine pulpwood markets. Our state’s healthy, abundant forests attract wood-using industry, create jobs and incentivize landowners to grow more trees, sustaining a supply chain that powers South Carolina’s economy and encourages conservation.” -State Forester Scott Phillips

“On behalf of Clarendon County Council, we extend a warm welcome to Homanit. The economic impact of a project of this magnitude will be felt throughout our community for generations to come. We sincerely thank you for placing your confidence in Clarendon County and selecting Alcolu, South Carolina as your home.” -Clarendon County Council Chairman John E. Johnson III

“We are pleased that international companies continue to choose central South Carolina for their U.S. operations. The central region’s rich natural resources and skilled workforce have made Homanit’s decision to invest $250 million and create 300 new jobs in Clarendon County possible. This investment not only boosts our region’s economy and improves the quality of life for residents, but also reinforces that our region has a lot to offer to growth-oriented companies.” -Central SC Alliance Chairman Matthew Shaffer

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Homanit selects Clarendon County to establish its U.S. manufacturing operation.
• The company’s $250 million investment will create 300 new jobs.
• Homanit is a leading manufacturer of wood materials.
• The company will be located at 1200 Spigner Road in Alcolu, S.C.
• Operations are expected to be online in 2028.

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By Mark A Leon

We recently had the pleasure of meeting Bailey Crump, floral desiger and owner of Garden Party Charleston.   When you spend time with Bailey, you will quickly see she is as charming as her flowers and her eye for natural beauty is unmatched.

We’d like to share the origins, vision and passion behind Garden Party Charleston and why it should be one of you top options for floral needs.

Bailey Crump’s Vision

Garden Party Charleston, founded by floral designer Bailey Crump, has quickly become a sought-after name for distinctive, organic floral arrangements in the city’s vibrant event scene. 

Crump’s signature style—lush, whimsical, and rooted in the natural beauty of the Lowcountry—has graced everything from intimate gatherings to high-profile brand launches. Her work is celebrated for its artful mix of wildflowers, emerald foliage, and a sense of effortless elegance that channels Charleston’s unique charm.

Founder Spotlight: Bailey Crump

Bailey Crump’s journey began with a passion for translating the region’s natural abundance into sophisticated floral artistry. Her approach is both intuitive and meticulous, blending classic Southern hospitality with a modern sensibility. Crump’s arrangements are known for their organic movement and fresh-from-the-garden feel, making her a favorite among discerning hosts and luxury brands alike.

Client Highlights

• AERIN x Julia Amory Capsule Launch: One of Garden Party Charleston’s standout moments was designing florals for the exclusive launch dinner of the AERIN x Julia Amory collection at Zero George, a boutique hotel in Charleston. Crump’s arrangements of white wildflowers and emerald foliage adorned the staircase, setting a magical tone as guests moved from cocktails in the courtyard to a five-course dinner. The florals echoed the collection’s sage green palette and effortless elegance, earning praise for perfectly capturing the event’s spirit.

• Charleston’s Social Scene: Crump’s work is regularly featured at some of Charleston’s most stylish affairs, from garden tours and preview parties to black-tie weddings. Her ability to tailor each arrangement to the event—whether it’s a timeless Southern soirée or a modern garden party—has made Garden Party Charleston a go-to for clients seeking both beauty and authenticity.

Why Garden Party Charleston Stands Out

Bailey Crump’s florals do more than decorate—they tell a story. Each arrangement is a celebration of place, season, and occasion, thoughtfully designed to enhance every moment. Garden Party Charleston continues to set the standard for floral artistry in the region, with Bailey Crump at the helm as both creative force and gracious collaborator.

Follow the journey on Instagram.

By Mark A Leon

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, a historic Charleston landmark and one of the areas too attractions, has embraced digital innovation to transform the visitor experience. 

Here are five key reasons the Magnolia mobile app and related tech upgrades have elevated every visit:

1. Effortless Navigation with GPS Wayfinding

Navigating Magnolia’s sprawling 400+ acres can be daunting, but the app’s GPS-enabled, hand-illustrated map makes it easy for guests to find their way, discover must-see locations, and avoid getting lost. This is especially helpful in a romantic-style garden where paths wind organically and landmarks can be hard to spot from the center of the gardens.

2. Streamlined Entry and Reduced Queues

The app’s mobile ticketing feature allows visitors to buy and scan tickets digitally, significantly cutting down wait times at the entrance. This not only improves the first impression but also frees up staff to focus on enhancing guest interactions rather than managing lines.

3. Real-Time Updates and Personalized Alerts

Push notifications keep guests informed about daily activities, special events, weather alerts, and membership promotions. Visitors can receive timely information right on their phones, ensuring they never miss a bloom tour or a unique garden event.

4. Enhanced Learning and Seasonal Discovery

With the “What’s in Bloom” feature, guests can explore which plants are currently flowering and even take themed walking tours, like the popular camellia tour in winter. The app also enables Magnolia to share horticultural insights, highlight hidden gems, and rotate educational content based on the season, making every visit unique.

5. Sustainability and Staff Efficiency

By replacing paper maps and printed materials, the app supports Magnolia’s sustainability goals and significantly reduces waste and printing costs. Staff are less burdened by repetitive questions, as guests can access information independently, and internal teams can use visitor data to optimize operations and guest flow.

The Magnolia Plantation & Gardens app (available to download in all app stores) has modernized the guest experience by making visits easier, more informative, and more sustainable. With features that cater to both first-time visitors and returning members, Magnolia continues to blend its rich history with cutting-edge technology for a truly memorable outing.

Creating space to connect with our common humanity

As the country grapples with division, Charleston-based Transformation Table offers a simple yet powerful solution: gather people from different backgrounds around a table for a meal and conversation.

Transformation Table’s story started in 2016 at an event commemorating the Mother Emanuel AME tragedy, during which Dr. Bernice A. King challenged the Charleston community to “get intimate.” Her message was clear: “Go to each other’s homes. Have dinner!” Inspired by King’s message and her own background hosting cross-cultural dinners as a development worker in Afghanistan, Tina Singleton founded Transformation Table. Rooted in the belief that empathy grows through shared understanding, Singleton curates dinners that bring together community members of different backgrounds, many of whom might never otherwise meet. Around a home-cooked meal and honest dialogue, guests begin to see each other as individuals and break down stereotypes.

Dinners are hosted in private homes or by community organizations, with a pay-what-you-can model. On Friday, June 20 from 6:30-9:30 p.m., Transformation Table is hosting a special gathering at Joseph Fields Farm centered on the theme of Community, with a meal prepared by Chef BJ Dennis, in remembrance of the Emanuel Nine.

Click HERE for reservations.

Learn more about the story behind Transformation Table and stay connected on Instagram.

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