57 www.CharlestonWomenPodcast.com | www.ReadCW.com | www.Instagram.com/CharlestonWomen Meet Dawn Burns, a writer whose love for Charleston ignites the pages of her books and encapsulates everything that makes the historic city so special. Born from a childhood dream of becoming a teacher, Burns originally pursued a path of education and did her studies at Clemson University. Yet, it was her innate love for writing that pushed her to become an author. As she navigated through different cities and career paths, from Greenville to Nashville, the seeds of her literary journey were quietly planted. It was in Nashville that Dawn was faced with uncertainty in a new city. She found solace in a website called “The Nashville Mom,” a virtual hub of community events and playdates. When the website faltered, she didn’t hesitate to pick up the reins, breathing life back into the platform with her community-minded spirit. This platform continued to develop from there and became a hub for all things Nashville — and created a space for women to connect with one another. From there, the trajectory of her life took a new turn. What began as a platform for sharing local events evolved into something more profound — a canvas for her passion for writing and her love for her favorite places. Her first book, “This is Nashville,” sprung forth as a love letter to the city that embraced her. Then a tug toward Charleston pulled at Burns. With its storied past and enchanting allure, it truly captured Burns’ heart. A childhood field trip to the city sparked a fascination, igniting a love for the colorful streets and historic charm. So, Burns eventually took the leap and moved to the Charleston area, eager to embrace everything the city has to offer. If you were to ask her today, Burns would describe her perfect day in Charleston as “a brunch at Post house, followed by a walk-through of the Old Village sightseeing homes and the Pitt Street bridge.” As she delved deeper into the city, her desire to share its charm with others took root. Thus, “This is Charleston” was born — a vibrant book of illustrations and insights into the city’s most beloved landmarks. Capturing the things that make Charleston so special, each page tells a story of Charleston’s timeless beauty. However, Burns’ journey is not just about capturing the essence of Charleston; it’s about community and connection. Her husband, who she considers one of her biggest supporters, gently nudged her out of her comfort zone, encouraging her to write her children’s book. Burns says her children have played a huge role in the process, attending book signings and deliveries and giving her work a sense of purpose and pride. This story shows us all that following one’s passions, with the support of loved ones, can go a long way. Burns’ journey reminds us that sometimes the most extraordinary adventures begin with a single step of faith. As she continues to weave her magic through the pages of her books, we can only anticipate more lively stories to come. Meet Dawn Burns The story behind the story BY GILLIAN BEVILLE Charleston Women in the Arts Dawn Burns with her books.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1