Finding a place that you can trust to complete any automotive work nowadays can be quite a challenge. It can be difficult to not feel taken advantage of or be convinced to spend more money than necessary when it comes to auto repairs and maintenance. Owner Johnny Page at Automotive Excellence in Mount Pleasant works diligently to ensure that nothing less than excellence is … [Read more...]
Selling Smiles to All: The Happy Southerner
A new home. A fresh start. A new adventure. That’s where the idea for The Happy Southerner originated. In her effort to pull up her bootstraps and find joy and fulfillment in her new life, Jackie Rice came up with a vision. Rice ventured out, on her own, in a less than familiar town, to start a business. A gift boutique to be exact. But not just any boutique; one that’s … [Read more...]
The Ultimate Gift: The Village Bookseller
Oftentimes in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it can be difficult to make time for ourselves. The Village Bookseller may be your answer. This independent book store in Mount Pleasant offers something for everyone on your list along with an oasis for relaxation. Their full espresso bar and requisite big leather armchairs will allow you to escape from the world while … [Read more...]
Hidden Gems of the Red Wine World: Why Americans Love These Versatile Vinos
While the wine regions of Bordeaux, Napa Valley and Tuscany may dominate the world of red wine, there exist lesser-known wine regions that are hidden gems for those looking to maintain quality at approachable prices. For me and the SAVI Somm team, we explore a number of regions, but Chile’s Central Valley, Spain’s Priorat and Italy’s Puglia are my top three for obtaining … [Read more...]
Yankee Swap & White Elephant: Guide to Fun, Functional and Funny Gifts
Finding the perfect Yankee Swap or White Elephant gift can leave you scratching your head. Do you pick something funny or practical? Something cute or elegant? Hopefully this quick gift guide will give you a few good ideas. The Real Housewives of Mount Pleasant Tumbler (The Happy Southerner for $35): This gift is sure to hit someone’s dream of being on reality television. … [Read more...]
Homebound for the Holidays: East Cooper Meals on Wheels Curbs Holiday Hunger
Although hunger is a glaring problem throughout the year, it is especially highlighted during the holiday season. East Cooper Meals on Wheels (ECMOW) is working to curb hunger in the homebound population this season. Established in August 1985, East Cooper Meals on Wheels serves anyone who is homebound and cannot prepare a meal, regardless of age or income level. They are a … [Read more...]
Nightmare in Paradise: Local Family Vacationing Witnesses Hawaii Wildfires
We changed the travel dates for our dream vacation to Hawaii. Looking back, I don’t know if this decision was a blessing or not. Our lives will be forever altered for the better as to what our eyes have seen, ears have heard and the smells we tried to avert. Our family learned many lessons, none of which fall short of the value of a life and the gift of life that God has … [Read more...]
Zen and Resilience: Local Yoga Studio Overcomes All Odds
Labeling Tricia Hughey a strong woman is an understatement. First of all, she’s been practicing yoga for over 20 years. For the co-owner of Yoga Daily, finding zen through yoga and meditation is practically second nature, and it’s helped shape her remarkable resilience and can-do attitude. However, both of those strengths were put to the test in 2023, when not one, but two … [Read more...]
Crush Yard: Where Recreation and Relaxation Co-exist
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in America, with an average growth rate over the past three years of 158.6 percent, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. The number of pickleball players in the U.S. now totals 36.5 million. Combining elements of tennis, ping pong and badminton, pickleball is a paddle sport with two or four players playing … [Read more...]
Spicing Things Up Mustard Seed Shutters After 3 Decades; LoLA Cajun-creole Cuisine to Come
Mom-and-pop restaurants are places where you feel the love because the chef in the kitchen treats you like family. Of course these days, franchises and chains make up the bulk of dining options, while mom-and-pop establishments are becoming rarer. But, there are still some that are going strong, even as other longtime family-owned restaurants end their run. After 28 years … [Read more...]