This impossibly charming city is FILLED with dreamy designs, delicious dinners and darling dresses!
Charleston is one of my absolute favorite US destinations. It feels like another world down there in the low country. I’ve visited three times now – and fall back in love every time. The architecture is something to gawk at – the details are delightful the colors are incredibly saccharine.
With every trip I plan, I search for the best places to eat and shop. If I could sum up my after-hours hobbies, that would be it. Shopping, yes. Food, yum!
Man is there a lot of food to be eaten in Charleston – they have you covered with the southern comfort food. For breakfast, South Carolina is all about the biscuit. Equally scrumptious, you have two great options: Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit and Hot + Handy. If you’re looking for a classic breakfast, try Millers All Day. Additionally, The Daily makes a mean smoothie, among other things!
For lunch or dinner, I’ve got a roster of options for you! You can’t go wrong with Post House, Little Jack’s Tavern, Frannie & The Fox – or my favorite, Basic Kitchen. Follow dinner up with drinks at Felix or The Gin Joint.
My shopping stamina is sustained by sugar – so having sweet treats mapped out is A MUST for me! Charleston has no shortage of options, like Sugar Bakeshop, who whips up small batch desserts daily and Off Track Ice Cream, who serves up fresh flavors from scratch (I recommend the mint chip).
Now that we’re fueled up, let’s get shopping! Whether you’re looking for a floral frock, a good book or funky decorative accessory for your home, Charleston has you covered. For gems and jewels, check out Croghan’s and Hart Jewelry. Our favorite SC clothing shops are Hampden, Beau and Ro, Julia Amory, Madison Mathews and Abbey Glass.
Searching for unique finds for your home? Check out Wentworth by GBS for curated picks, Warehouse 61 for that vintage flair and Candlefish for the best scents. Our bookstore loyalty will always be with Book Hounds – however, we love supporting all small businesses. If you happen to be in Charleston, check our Blue Bicycle Books. It’s Alex’s SECOND favorite bookstore. BBB features both new releases and rare finds, sure to satisfy any bibliophile.
One of my favorite stops on vacation is the local museums. If you’re an art-lover like myself, I’d recommend visiting The Gibbes Museum, which not only features a curated assortment of artwork but also a great on-site cafe and gift shop. Because my brain can’t shut off, we always seem to sneak a little work into these trips. Part of this trip included a stop at two special trade vendors – one for artisan textiles and the other for custom lighting. We’re excited to share these offerings with our clients.
I have one final recommendation for you – and it’s for THE place to stay! We had a lovely stay at The Ryder Hotel. Not only is the design by Charleston’s own and impossibly talented Cortney Bishop, but it’s centrally located. The design features 70’s surf shack vibes, done in a curated, upscale manner. Their on-site restaurant, Little Palm, is a MUST SEE and their roof deck pools is the perfect place to beat that summer heat, with a cocktail in hand!
Well folks, that’s all I’ve got for Charleston. I hope you’ll hit up these special spots during your upcoming stay!
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We typically send these fun little nuggets of info out once per month. We love sharing design tips, travel ideas and our favorite local spots!
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